Sara Boilen

People who ski in the Sierra Nevada backcountry say there’s no better way to experience the wonder of the mountains in winter. But the avalanche that killed nine backcountry skiers near Lake Tahoe last month has highlighted the dangers inherent in the sport. Those hazards include masses of snow racing down steep slopes — and a human tendency to sometimes underestimate risk. We talk about what can be done to address the dangers and heighten awareness for the growing number of people looking to explore the wilderness in winter. Guests: Sarah Wright, outdoors engagement reporter, KQED Sara Boilen, clinical psychologist; backcountry skier; co-host, "The Avalanche Hour" podcast Ethan Greene, director, Colorado Avalanche Information Center Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ian McCammon, a researcher blending physics and avalanche education, and Sara Boilen, a clinical psychologist applying human factors to safety, discuss improving how teams learn from outings. They cover rolling versus after-action debriefs. They explore barriers like fatigue and shame. Practical prompts, peer leadership, and when to write observations are highlighted.