Arctic Entries

Bradly Butcher shares his personal story of pursuing stand-up comedy despite crippling shyness and panic attacks.

A personal story about a peaceful life on Sand Lake disrupted by a devastating house fire that claimed a neighbor and her dog, leaving lasting memories in the community.

A deaf man shares his upbringing in a multi-generational deaf family, where deafness was viewed as culture rather than disability, and recounts his childhood dreams of becoming a pilot or astronaut despite societal doubts.

A personal story about navigating a high-pressure NOAA fellowship interview process that led to a life-changing job offer in Alaska requiring an immediate decision.

Erin Jackson-Hill shares her personal story of addiction, recovery, and transformation.

A narrator recounts their experiences as an undefeated mud wrestler in 1980s Alaska, describing the gritty setting and anticipating a match against a new challenger.

A shy teenager from Anchorage discovers stand-up comedy through Zach Galifianakis and overcomes his fear by preparing for and delivering a funny speech at his high school graduation.

A deaf man shares his upbringing in a multi-generational deaf family where deafness was viewed as culture and language, and recounts how childhood dreams of becoming a pilot or astronaut were met with skepticism, sparking his determination to challenge hearing-world limitations.

An FBI agent recounts how a softball tournament in Sitka, Alaska, coincided with a fugitive investigation, blending work and play in a muddy adventure.

A personal story about immigrating to the U.S.

Kathy Sprague shares personal memories of growing up in Nebraska during the Great Depression, attending Catholic school, experiencing historical events like World War II and polio, and meeting her future husband on a blind date in 1953.

The narrator recounts a chaotic and humorous incident at a wedding lodge where her drunk friend Peggy starts her period, leading to a messy situation that prompts a reflection on menstruation and personal heroism.