Running the River from Passion to Purpose: Julie Sloan, Maine River Runners

Guides Gone Wild

Today I’m welcoming one of my wild new Western Maine friends, Julie Sloan, an owner and the lead instructor at Maine River Runners (https://www.maineriverrunners.com/) in Bethel, Maine.
Maine River Runners came to town the summer of 2023, and jumped right in to the local business community with their fleet of kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards, and accessories for rent, as well as a lesson program and shuttle service that brings paddlers up and down the Androscoggin from their riverfront home base in Bethel.
But this is no ‘Julie-come-lately’ story - even though her business just celebrated its first birthday, Julie Sloan has more than 20 years of experience teaching (both in classrooms and on the water), and holds certifications in swift water, coastal kayaking, SUP yoga teaching, and as an ACA Paddle Sports Safety Facilitator.
Julie’s story is one that fills me with joy because she has managed to meld her many interests and curiosities into a life she loves, that’s also creating so much good in the world and in her community as a result.
So get that river adventure on your calendar ASAP!:

• Maine River Runners : https://www.maineriverrunners.com/
• Evans Notch Lodge

Are you a registered Maine Guide itching to get your community and clients on the water this summer?

• Let’s talk paddle retreats!: https://www.evansnotchlodge.com/retreats

Or are you a land-lubber looking for some fun (and fabulous fundraising!) hiking opportunities this summer? :

• Join or Support the Guides Gone Wildcats hike for Alzheimer’s - July 27th
• Join or Donate to a Summits in Solidarity hike: https://givebutter.com/SummitsInSolidarity

Or has Julie inspired you to start your own outdoor business? Check out my Guide for Guides on Liability Insurance and Social Media Marketing!

A few more links from our conversation (come on over to GuidesGoneWild.com for the complete list):

• Ari Leach - Blackbird Guide Services
• Androscoggin River Watershed Council
• HALA inflatable paddle boards (CO)
• Zapstix Surf Shop (NH)

Chapters

1. Maine River Runners Interview (00:00:00)

2. Outdoor Education and Water Sports Integration (00:04:08)

3. Riverside Vision and Collaboration (00:11:03)

4. Exploring Rivers and Water Sports (00:23:50)

5. River Adventures and Collaboration (00:27:50)

6. Outdoor Charity Hikes and Solidarity (00:36:45)