On Episode 45 of Mindful Warrior Radio, we welcome Brett Mayer—Policy Director at the American Canoe Association, educator, small business owner, and long-time paddler. Brett is the creator of Following Waters, a project born from his graduate research exploring the lived experiences of whitewater kayakers and how their relationships with rivers evolve over time—from initiation, to identity and stewardship.

Through long-form storytelling, Brett seeks to break down silos between athletes, educators, advocates, and storytellers, illuminating how we are all part of the same interconnected, water-based ecosystem.

Drawing on his experience, Brett shares that time on the river becomes a mirror for identity, decision-making, and intuition—revealing deeper truths about performance, leadership, risk, and the practice ...