Jennifer Olson
Also called "Editor Jenn" at Women’s Adventure, Jennifer Olson learns as much from you as she hopes you learn from the magazine and this website. Playing with magnetic poetry on her refrigerator helped Jennifer develop a philosophy by which she still lives: “If you publish a cliché, go explore real inspiration." Visit me on Google+
Jennifer Olson's Latest Posts
The Gender Divide
While perusing Facebook, we stumbled upon this Specialized video via Terry Precision Cycling. We like it in general, but the footage of women’s downhill racing stirred WAM’s cycling editor to bring up an issue that’s bugged her for ages: the gender divide she’s noticed in the bike world.
Emotion Kayak Traverse
An entry-level standup paddleboard in every aspect—from its price point to its unmatched stability—Emotion Kayak’s Traverse offers both versatility and durability. Though short, the Traverse tracks as well as long boards, thanks to its 9-inch removable fin. Plus, it handles easily in surf.
Not Your Ordinary Spa Treatment
Kate McCaughey—also known as Miss Rhode Island—preps for the Miss USA Pageant with mud masks and steam treatments, just like any other beauty queen. Unlike any other pageant girl, though, Kate won’t receive these treatments in a spa. This weekend, she’ll be caked with mud then sprayed with water and made to run through fire, continuing on a 10-mile trail run. It’s all part of Tough Mudder New England.
Learning to Scuba
“It’s mind over matter,” Jeni said. The fact of the matter is that I was learning to breathe under water. My mind said that it was both unnatural and unsafe. But Jeni, my scuba instructor, said my issue was normal and that it just takes getting used to. “We women like breathing through our noses,” she told me.
Questioning Life on the Edge
Many times, we’re prodded to get out there and just do it—whatever “it” is. We’re urged to live on the edge, go fast, go hard, and go higher. At other times, we are taught to rest or be still. How do you choose adventure, balance peace with joyful noise, and push your limits while staying sane?
Eggs in a Baggie
Assistant Editor Jennifer Olson demonstrates an easy way to prepare scrambled eggs in the backcountry. The most important elements: minimal cleanup and maximal taste.
April Thrills
“Life is a thrill.” So get out there, says Tara Short, founder of Green Edventures, LLC. Maybe you’re one of the folks who’ll fill of one of the a few spots left in her upcoming Baja eco-adventure trip, which runs April 14-20.
The Incredible (Backcountry) Edible
Don’t let shell shock keep you from experimenting with eggs in the outdoors. “They’re backcountry exotic but easy,” says Claudia Pearson, author of a National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) cookbook.
Cupid Strikes Again
Sunshine and blue skies not only made for spring skiing conditions at Arapahoe Basin this weekend but also fueled the spark that rekindled an old flame. While I know this love won’t work out (owing to the fickle nature of spring ski conditions), I’m glad I spent my Sunday at the beach—I mean, on the ski slopes.
Discovering the latest and greatest
“We’re just having a little quiet before the storm here—before the party,” said Mountain Hardwear’s PR gal, Paige. We were revving up for a whirlwind week of Outdoor Retailer activities. (Or should I say festivities?) Now I’m having a little quite here before the next storm. You could even say it’s the eye of the storm, although the end of the party.
Peace, love and snow
“How beautiful! It’s like a little piece of heaven, isn’t it?” Ericka was commenting on the blue-sky weather, soft snow, and stunning views. While our ReTreat Yourself experience is likely less blissful than the real deal, it certainly possess celestial qualities. To name a few: the loving community, talk of higher powers and the spiritual realm, freshly groomed slopes, tree runs, go-for-it women, and yoga.
Confessions of an anxious adventurer
Prior to a new experience or a solo adventure, I get a little nervous. Why am I freaked out?
