For generations, people around the world have turned to heat and steam for healing, connection, and ritual—most famously in places like Finland, where sauna is a way of life. But long before modern wellness trends, Indigenous communities here in Alaska practiced their own forms of “steaming,” using traditional sweat lodges as part of physical, spiritual, and communal well-being.

Today, we’re seeing a powerful revival of sauna culture, blending ancient traditions with contemporary health and lifestyle trends. From wood-fired saunas to cold plunges in icy waters, the hot–cold ritual is gaining new attention across the state and beyond.

In this conversation, we explore the deep history, cultural roots and modern resurgence of sauna—and what it means to Alaskans today.

On this episode, we sweep you into the surprisingly cool world of curling—where things heat up on the ice. Curling might look like a simple game of sliding stones across ice, but it’s a sport rich in history, strategy, and surprising science.

Originating centuries ago in Scotland, curling has grown into a global sport and a fan favorite at the Winter Olympics. Here in Anchorage, a dedicated community of curlers and volunteers keeps that tradition alive, welcoming newcomers and seasoned players alike.

We explore how the game works, the fascinating physics behind that signature “curl” and the local stories that make curling in Alaska so unique.

On this episode we celebrate Women’s History Month by showcasing some Alaska women who were honored at the 2026 ATHENA Awards. The awards are given to only a select few women that have shown professional excellence, commitment to community and leadership potential. We hear from the founder of the Anchorage chapter of the ATHENA Society, Eleanor Andrews and this year's leadership award winner, Dr. Anne Zink. We also get to know two more ATHENA Society inductees from this year.