We were lucky to catch up with Mary Grodman recently and have shared our conversation below.
Mary, thank you so much for making time for us. We’ve always admired your ability to take risks and so maybe we can kick things off with a discussion around how you developed your ability to take and bear risk?
I developed my ability to take risks gradually, through a combination of experiences, education, and reflection. It started when I was young and spent summers working at camps. I found that every new responsibility—whether leading a group, handling an unexpected challenge, or speaking up in a difficult moment—pushed me to step outside my comfort zone. Over time, I became more confident in my ability to make decisions and adapt, even when the outcome wasn’t guaranteed.
Later, I pursued professional training through programs like IWLS and NOLS, which emphasized preparation, decision-making, and situational awareness. Those experiences taught me that risk isn’t just about taking a leap—it’s about evaluating the environment, understanding your tools and skills, and moving forward with intention. Working in the field, especially in leadership roles, continued to shape that mindset.
I’ve learned that growth often lives on the other side of uncertainty, and that calculated risk—when grounded in preparation and purpose—is one of the best ways to build resilience and lead others with confidence.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m Mary Grodman, and I get to do what I truly love—guiding young adventurers into the wild places of Arizona and beyond. I lead outdoor programs that get kids off their screens, into their hiking boots, and fully immersed in the dirt, stars, rivers, and stories of the natural world. Whether we’re crawling through caves, building shelters, learning to read a map (yes, a real one—made of paper!), or just staring up at a sky full of stars, I believe every outdoor moment can spark confidence, curiosity, and awe.
What’s most exciting to me is watching a child discover something new about themselves in the outdoors. Maybe it’s their first night sleeping in a tent, or they realize they’re braver than they thought when crossing a stream. Those moments are gold.
As for what’s new—I’ve been focusing more on night sky education! I’ve been bringing along field guides, and some pretty stellar journaling activities to help kids connect with the sky above us. It’s been amazing to see campers learn about constellations and then point them out with pride the next night.
One more thing I want folks to know: this kind of work isn’t just about adventure—it’s about building lifelong skills like teamwork, resilience, and respect for our natural world. My goal is to create unforgettable, meaningful experiences that stick with kids long after the mud washes off.
Stay tuned—we’ve got some big adventures coming up, and I am stoked for the laughter, learning, and probably snacks hidden in every backpack.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are curiosity, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Curiosity was the spark that drew me into this field. I’ve always asked questions—about nature, people, systems, and the reasons behind the way things work. That sense of wonder led me to study Environmental Science and Criminal Justice, to pursue outdoor leadership training, and to say “yes” to opportunities even when I wasn’t sure where they might lead. For anyone just starting out, my advice is: follow what genuinely interests you. Ask questions. Seek mentors. And don’t be afraid to explore unexpected paths—even if they seem disconnected at first. So often, the dots connect later.
Resilience is what helped me keep going when things got tough. Whether it was navigating unpredictable field conditions, shifting directions in my career, or working through moments of self-doubt, I had to learn to adapt, reflect, and keep moving forward. My best advice? Get comfortable being uncomfortable. That’s where real growth happens. And surround yourself with people who not only support you, but also challenge you to grow. I wouldn’t be where I am today without a long list of nervous, uncertain moments that taught me more than success ever could.
Lifelong learning is the thread that ties it all together. I’m always looking for new certifications, experiences, and perspectives no matter how old I get!! The outdoors is constantly changing, and so are the people I work with. For those early in their journey, I would encourage them to be intentional about continuing their education—whether through formal training, reading, conversations, or hands-on experience. Stay curious. Stay humble. Stay open.
There’s no one-size-fits-all path—but with these three qualities as a foundation, you’ll be ready for whatever comes next.
If you knew you only had a decade of life left, how would you spend that decade?
If I knew I only had a decade left, I’d want to spend it doing exactly what I’m already passionate about—but with even more intention, presence, and purpose.
I’d spend more time outdoors, of course—on rivers, trails, and mountaintops—but not alone. I’d bring as many young people along as possible. I’d pour myself into mentoring, teaching, and creating experiences that help others build confidence, connect with nature, and discover their own strength. I’d make sure the next generation of outdoor leaders is inspired, prepared, and supported.
I’d also carve out more time for the family and people I love. I’d gather friends around campfires, cook messy meals, tell stories, and soak in the simple beauty of shared time. I’d travel to a few wild places I’ve always dreamed of seeing—places where the stars are still bright and silence still exists.
And I’d really try my hand at writing. I’d want to capture the lessons, the landscapes, and the moments that shaped me—so that even after my time here, something meaningful would remain for others to read, reflect on, and carry forward.
Ultimately, I’d live fully. With gratitude. With adventure. And with the hope that the work I’ve done will ripple outward long after I’m gone.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tinyurl.com/csoutdoors10
- Instagram: mgrodman & cs.outdoors
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mfgrodman/
Image Credits
Mary Grodman, Jennifer Noyce, Jason Grodman
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
