Susan Wowk

Susan Wowk is the co-owner and lead editor of Snowshoe Magazine, the premier global resource for snowshoeing enthusiasts. Based in the United States, she covers:

  • Outdoors: Destination guides, gear reviews, and safety protocols for winter exploration.
  • Sports: Snowshoe racing events and training regimens for athletes.
  • Lifestyle: Mental health benefits of winter activities and eco-tourism trends.

Pitching Insights

  • Do: Emphasize inclusivity, sustainability, and practical utility. Example: A profile on a community-led snowshoe trail maintenance initiative.
  • Don’t: Pitch extreme sports or luxury travel content. Susan focuses on accessibility over adrenaline.

Achievements

  • Championed size-inclusive snowshoe designs through collaborations with brands like Redfeather.
  • Featured in Korn Ferry’s Briefings Magazine for her insights on snowshoeing’s mental health benefits during the pandemic.

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More About Susan Wowk

Bio

Susan Wowk: A Trailblazer in Winter Outdoor Journalism

Susan Wowk has carved a unique niche as a leading voice in snowshoeing and winter outdoor journalism. As co-owner and lead editor of Snowshoe Magazine, she has dedicated her career to promoting the sport’s accessibility, safety, and cultural significance. Her work blends practical guidance with a deep appreciation for nature, making her a trusted resource for enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

Career Trajectory: From Enthusiast to Industry Leader

Susan’s journey into snowshoeing began in 2015 when she and her husband Paul acquired Snowshoe Magazine. Initially newcomers to the sport, their passion grew into expertise, driven by firsthand experiences on trails across Northern Colorado and beyond. Under their leadership, the publication has become the global authority on snowshoeing, emphasizing inclusivity and environmental stewardship[4].

Key Career Milestones

  • 2015: Transitioned from casual snowshoers to owners of Snowshoe Magazine, revitalizing its mission to cater to all skill levels.
  • 2020: Authored influential pieces like Walking on Snow for Korn Ferry, highlighting snowshoeing’s mental health benefits during the pandemic[5].
  • 2023: Spearheaded gear-testing initiatives, collaborating with brands like Brunton to educate readers on navigation tools[7].

Key Articles and Impact

Compass and Map Reading 101: Basics for the Beginner

Co-authored with Jim Joque, this Brunton article demystifies navigation for winter adventurers. Susan emphasizes the importance of preparedness, drawing from her solo snowshoeing experiences in Wisconsin’s Big Eau Pleine region. The piece breaks down compass types, topographic map symbols, and route-planning strategies, reinforcing her commitment to safety education. Its step-by-step approach has become a staple for novice snowshoers[7].

Walking on Snow

In this Korn Ferry feature, Susan explores snowshoeing’s role in reconnecting with nature during isolation. She contrasts modern aluminum snowshoes with indigenous designs, weaving historical context into a narrative about mental wellness. The article’s blend of cultural history and practical advice underscores her ability to bridge niche topics with broader audience appeal[5].

The Ultimate Guide To Snowshoeing In Grand County, Colorado

This destination guide exemplifies Susan’s knack for curating accessible adventures. She details trail difficulty, scenic highlights, and local amenities, catering to families and seasoned hikers alike. By partnering with regional tourism boards, she amplifies lesser-known trails, driving economic support for rural communities[4].

Beat Analysis and Pitching Recommendations

Focus on Inclusivity and Safety

Susan prioritizes stories that democratize snowshoeing, such as gear for plus-size adventurers or adaptive equipment for disabled athletes. Pitches should highlight products or initiatives that lower barriers to entry, backed by data or user testimonials. For example, her review of Four Kinds Of Snowshoes For Big People & Heavy Loads demonstrates her interest in size-inclusive design[4].

Embrace Historical and Cultural Angles

She frequently highlights snowshoeing’s indigenous roots, as seen in her Korn Ferry piece on Dena’ina snowshoe craftsmanship[5]. Pitches tying modern practices to traditional knowledge, or profiling artisans reviving heritage techniques, align with her editorial vision.

Avoid Commercialized or Extreme Sports Narratives

Susan avoids content centered on competitive racing or luxury travel. Instead, she favors grassroots events like community snowshoe hikes or eco-friendly gear innovations. A pitch about a biodegradable snowshoe traction system would resonate more than one about high-end resorts.

Pitching Tips

  • Lead with sustainability: Highlight eco-conscious materials or carbon-neutral manufacturing processes.
  • Incorporate user stories: Share anecdotes from diverse snowshoers, especially underrepresented groups.
  • Provide visual assets: Submit high-resolution photos of gear in action or trail maps.
  • Localize trends: Pitch regional guides with insider tips, like lesser-known trails in national parks.
  • Avoid jargon: Use clear, conversational language suited for beginners.

Awards and Achievements

“Snowshoeing invites exploration of out-of-the-way places. Modern snowshoes make it as easy as strapping them on and taking a step off.” — Susan Wowk, Korn Ferry[5]
  • Industry Leadership: Transformed Snowshoe Magazine into the sole global publication dedicated to snowshoeing, increasing its readership by 40% since 2015[4].
  • Community Impact: Partnered with nonprofits to sponsor free snowshoe lending programs in schools, fostering youth engagement with winter sports.

Top Articles

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