Susan Conrad is a classically shy introvert trapped in an extrovert personality, as well as a long-distance paddler who can’t be left alone in the same room with dark chocolate. She grew up in New York State’s Catskill Mountains, evolving into a rough ‘n tumble—although quite clumsy—tomboy with minimal athletic ability. Her parents tried to instill a deep fear of water in her so she’s convinced that a combination of sheer stubbornness, rebellion and naiveté eventually led her to solo paddle the 1,200-mile water trail known as the Inside Passage, which winds its way from Washington State to Alaska.

It was a profoundly life-changing experience and Susan loves sharing her fears, epiphanies, and lessons learned with others to empower them to truly ‘get’ that they are infinitely capable of accomplishing anything they want in life! Passionate about the positive impact that adventure and sport can have on the lives of women, Susan is an ambassador for Women Who Paddle, and uses her human-powered journeys as a platform to inspire and enable women to get outside, and get exploring. She’s also an EXPED adventure ambassador and sponsored athlete.

Susan has authored two other books about the Inside Passage. Inside: One Woman’s Journey Through the Inside Passage is a five-time award-winning memoir and Wildly Inside: A Visual Journey Through the Inside Passage is a photo book featuring the places, spaces, and faces of the Inside Passage.