Alex Kaufman, the host of the Wintry Mix Podcast and a longtime ski industry member who has vast experience in the resort sector, has been a vital resource for skiers following the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on the 2019-20 ski season. On March 12, as resorts began putting out statements on the ongoing developments with COVID-19, he tweeted out this statement:
If ya’ll like lift served skiing you should do it now cuz this season ain’t going to end like regular. Sorry. #COVID19
— Wintry Mix Podcast (@WintryMixCast) March 12, 2020
It was an apt prediction, as resorts across North America and the world have suspended operations in an effort to slow the spread of the disease. Since then, Kaufman has pivoted from his usual full-length podcast format, offering short, digestible “quick pods” with reliable ski industry, mountain town and healthcare professionals to help provide information to skiers and put the outbreak’s effect on resorts into context. Three episodes have gone live so far, with another set for tonight. We’ll update this post as more become available.
Summit County, Colorado – March 13
Guest: News Director at Krystal 93, Phil Lindeman
The Moment It Happened – March 14
Guests: Jay Peak’s Steve Wright, SAM Magazine’s Dave Meeker and Mike Rogge of Verb Cabin and Mountain Gazette
SLC and Whistler – March 15
Guests: Maddy Grainger, Mark Warner, Dave Amirault and Katie Clifford
Summit County Is Closed
Guests: Doug Bittinger and Cindy Reese, proprietors of Mountain Outfitters in Breckenridge