In this moving episode, Paige Reed shares the inspiring story behind Piper's Peak, a nonprofit organization that introduces women and girls to fly fishing. Named after Paige's late sister, Piper, the organization carries on her adventurous legacy while providing natural healing experiences. Paige opens up about grief, family bonds, and the therapeutic power of fly fishing, offering insights on how outdoor activities can help process trauma and build community.

Show Notes:

• Introduction to Paige Reed and the story of Piper's Peak
• How Piper's tragic accident in 2019 led to the creation of the organization
• Details on Piper's Peak programs and annual fly fishing events
• The challenges and growth of the organization during the COVID-19 pandemic
• How fly fishing can be a meditative and healing experience
• Paige's personal journey learning to fly fish and running a nonprofit
• The importance of talking openly about grief and loss
• How Piper's Peak is impacting families and younger generations
• Ways to support or get involved with Piper's Peak
• Contact information: Website - piperspeak.org, Instagram - @piperspeaksunvalley, Email - page@piperspeak.org

Join host Devin Carlson in this impactful episode of "Mending on the Fly," as he leads a profound discussion with Ashleigh Bauman about her remarkable journey through a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ashleigh candidly shares her emotional and physical struggles, the significance of self-advocacy, and how her involvement with Casting for Recovery provided her with a sense of peace and belonging. Don't miss out on Ashleigh's inspiring account of resilience, support, and the therapeutic influence of nature.

Show Notes:

• 00:00 Introduction and Initial Diagnosis
• 00:47 The Irony of Cancer Awareness
• 02:01 Discovery During the Pandemic
• 02:44 Facing the Reality of Cancer
• 05:53 Understanding Cancer Stages and Risks
• 09:34 Genetic Testing and Family History
• 11:18 Support Systems and Mental Health
• 13:53 Navigating Treatment and Work
• 19:41 Life After Diagnosis
• 31:28 Casual Conversation and Humor
• 31:52 Introduction to Casting for Recovery
• 32:09 Discovering Fly Fishing
• 34:13 Challenges and Persistence
• 36:36 The Retreat Experience
• 39:37 Therapeutic Benefits of Fly Fishing
• 41:46 Support Groups and Therapy
• 44:41 Continued Involvement and Community
• 51:41 Advice and Personal Reflections
• 57:42 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information

In this captivating episode of Mending on the Fly, Devin sits down with Brian Smith, the mastermind behind the wildly popular fly tying social media accounts @_TiesFlies_" and TheFliesmith.co. Brian shares his incredible journey from tattoo artist to fly tying sensation, amassing a dedicated following of over 100,000 on each platform in just a year. Discover the secrets behind his mesmerizing fly tying videos, his passion for sharing the art with others, and how he turned his newfound hobby into a thriving business. Brian's inspiring story is a testament to the power of dedication, creativity, and the therapeutic nature of fly fishing and tying. Join us as we dive deep into Brian's world and explore his plans for the future of the fly tying community.

Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction to Brian Smith and his social media success
05:00 - Brian's background as a tattoo artist and chef
08:00 - How a fishing trip with a neighbor sparked Brian's passion for fly tying
15:00 - Brian's love for working with latex in fly tying
20:00 - The challenges and rewards of tying realistic flies
24:00 - Brian's research process and the importance of international fly tying forums
28:00 - Plans for a fly tying guild and engaging the younger generation
32:00 - The truth about being on a "pro team" in the fly tying industry
35:00 - How fly tying helps Brian manage anxiety and stress
40:00 - The therapeutic nature of fly fishing and organizations supporting recovery
44:00 - Closing thoughts and how to follow Brian's journey

Find Brian on Instagram: @_tiesflies_