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Kara Weld: 3x National Champion, CEO, Badass

Courtney Sweeney / Thursday, February 13, 2025

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Kara Weld: 3x National Champion, CEO, Badass
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In this captivating episode, we welcome Kara Weld, a three-time U.S. national champion in canoe slalom, seasoned kayaker, and CEO of Immersion Research. Kara talks about her journey through competitive kayaking, her passion for the outdoors, and building a successful business.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

  • How she fell in love with whitewater — Through countless stories, Kara shares how her dad and his friends got her into the sport.
  • Life as a champion paddler — She shares how she became a three-time national champion and thrived in a male-dominated sport.
  • Building Immersion Research — Kara reveals the story behind creating one of the top brands in paddle sports and the lessons from leading the company.
  • What life is like these days — She talks about what kayaking is like for her these days and how she values the strong female presence in the gorge.

Full of inspiring stories, practical insights, and Kara’s energy, this episode is perfect for adventurers, entrepreneurs, and anyone who loves hearing from trailblazers.

Movie Mentioned

Kara mentioned a great movie about female kayakers called Fast and Clean, you can watch it on YouTube here.

Stay Connected

Follow the podcast for more engaging discussions with inspiring guests. For more episodes, visit our website at Whitewater Guidebook.

Author

Courtney Sweeney

Courtney Sweeney grew up in Texas, and has spent the last decade living in different areas of the Rocky Mountains and on the West coast. She enjoys both melted and frozen water, rafting in the summer and skiing in the winter.

Connect with Courtney: 

  • YouTube
 
 

Supported By

Sawyer

Cascade River Gear

Maravia Rafts

River Hardware

NWRC Whitewater Education & Safety Training

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Disclaimer: River conditions, obstacles, and rapids can vary for a variety of reasons. Please combine this general information with good judgment and your own river reading skills.


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