Joel Gratz

Joel Gratz, the savvy captain of meteorologists at Open Snow, dives into the art of snow forecasting and the thrill of skiing. With a love for the slopes since childhood, Joel shares tips on setting realistic expectations for snowfall. He discusses the accuracy of his predictions, highlighting the challenge of forecasting for diverse U.S. regions. Listeners will enjoy his journey from passion to profession, and the vital role of teamwork in delivering precise weather reports, ensuring ski enthusiasts are always ready to hit the powder.

Joel Gratz, meteorologist and founder of OpenSnow who turned a local snow newsletter into a global powder‑forecasting platform. He talks about building a subscription forecasting product, why local terrain and wind make neighboring mountains behave differently, limits of long‑range forecasts, how passes change crowd dynamics, and what makes Utah, Japan, and BC unique for powder.

Joel Gratz, founder of OpenSnow, shares his journey in providing tailored weather forecasts that enhance skiing experiences. William Sherman, originally from Colorado and now in Norway, discusses Safeback's SBX technology aimed at extending survival rates for avalanche victims. He highlights the importance of the first moments after burial and the system's research-backed effectiveness. Both guests stress that while technology can improve safety, sound judgment remains vital in the unpredictable backcountry.