Off Beat Interview Series with Jasmine
Tell us a little about yourself! Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a small 3,000-person mountain town called Julian in San Diego county. I lived on the property of a YMCA camp, allowing for a latchkey childhood exploring the outdoors. My summers were spent on horseback and living on a sailboat. I had the privilege of running track and playing both high school and club volleyball throughout my teenage years.
How did you find your way to the river?
After instructing teen leadership at a horse camp in Julian and on sailing expeditions in Washington, I wanted to explore employment outside of the YMCA. My college roommate invited me to work with her on the Payette River near Boise. As soon as I hit the water, I knew the rest of my life would involve rivers.
If you could be a river super hero, what would you be?
The Spark: I would have the power to make every person on the trip feel comfortable, connected, and joyous every time I dip my oars in the water. Also maybe making the boats fly like the magic carpet…
What is your favorite dress up theme?
Disco!!! Any excuse for sequins and glitter.
What is your ‘go to’ crazy hat night creation?
The snake hat from one of the first YouTube videos ever posted.
What brought you to Canyons?
I spent much of my professional whitewater years working towards a position on the Middle Fork of the Salmon. When exploring potential companies, I fell in love with Canyons’ focus on family, inclusivity, and stewardship. This company truly is at the forefront of social progress and conservation.
How many years have you worked here?
I worked two seasons, took one off for surgeries, and will be returning this summer!
What is your favorite thing about Canyons?
Fostering the feeling of family. By the end of a trip, it’s like I’ve known every person for years.
If you could describe Canyons in 3 words?
Home, stewardship, safety.
When you hear the word Idaho, what comes to mind?
The Frank Church Wilderness, rivers, community, and hot springs.
What are your top three favorite camps?
Shelf, Survey, California.
Your favorite hike?
Indian Creek yew grove on the Main Salmon.
Top three favorite rapids?
Tappan Falls, Cove Creek, Slapp-Stinker.
Currently what is your nemesis rapid?
Growler.
What river do you want to run that you haven’t yet?
The Shotover and the Nahanni.
What do you consider a ‘real’ job?
Anything in the outdoors. Everything there is more ‘real’ than a socially constructed world.
If you could only have one kayak in your quiver, what would it be and why?
Pyranha Ripper! It pivots and surfs like a dream.
What is your favorite thing to cook on the river?
Steak 🙂
If you could take a musician or band down the river today, who would it be?
Ren, a Welsh rapper who advocates for mental health and sheds light on chronic illness/pain.
What is your most memorable swim in a river?
Breaking my ankle while swimming a kilometer long rapid in Chile.
What is one of your river rituals or superstitions?
Before difficult rapids, I kiss my hand and touch the water, asking the river for safe passage.
What is your most valued non river related item that you bring with you on every trip?
Sharp kitchen knives.
What is your favorite groover spot?
Anywhere shaded.
Similar Posts by The Author:
- Off Beat Interview Series with Sanne Hilbrich
- Off Beat Interview Series with Mike Hipsher
- The Interior Guide: How to Actually Show Up for Yourself this River Trip
- Internal Hydrology: Why You’re More Watershed Than Human
- Off Beat Interview Series with Clark
