Meet Mary Grodman

We recently connected with Mary Grodman and have shared our conversation below.

Mary, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?

I keep my creativity alive by staying curious and immersing myself in new experiences. Whether it’s exploring new places in the outdoors, experimenting with new lesson ideas for students, or trying hands-on projects, I make sure to keep learning and observing. I also set aside time to reflect, take notes or just thinking through ideas helps me connect the dots in unexpected ways. Surrounding myself with people who inspire me, whether fellow educators, guides, or students, fuels my imagination and keeps my creative energy flowing.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m passionate about creating engaging outdoor and educational experiences for students and families in my community in Tucson, AZ. Through programs like guided hikes, adventure camps, and hands-on learning activities, I get to help participants connect with nature, explore new skills, and build confidence. What I find most exciting is seeing that moment of discovery—when a student learns something new about the environment, themselves, or their team.

My approach is all about curiosity, creativity, and thoughtful planning. I love turning ideas into structured experiences that are fun, safe, and memorable. Surrounding myself with inspiring colleagues and students keeps my energy and imagination flowing, which I think really comes through in the programs I offer.

Right now, I’m excited to be hiring new staff and guides as we expand the program in new and fun ways, creating outdoor opportunities for everyone. We’re constantly looking for ways to make the outdoors accessible, educational, and enjoyable, and I can’t wait to see these adventures come to life.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are curiosity, adaptability, and a love of planning and organization. Curiosity has kept me eager to learn—whether it’s exploring new outdoor skills, teaching techniques, or understanding the natural world. Adaptability has helped me navigate challenges, whether on the trail, in program logistics, or when working with students with different needs. And my planning skills have allowed me to turn ideas into structured, engaging experiences that are fun and safe for everyone.

For those early in their journey, I’d say: never stop asking questions and seeking new experiences, because curiosity fuels growth. Practice flexibility—things won’t always go as planned, and learning to pivot is invaluable. And finally, develop your planning skills: make lists, map out ideas, and organize your projects. The more intentional you are, the more you can turn your ideas into meaningful experiences.

As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?

One book that has played a key role in my development is Freedom of the Hills, the Classic Mountaineering Guide. Beyond teaching essential technical skills for climbing and outdoor safety, it has shaped the way I approach challenges and problem-solving in all areas of life. Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve taken from it include the importance of preparation, respecting the environment, and making thoughtful, informed decisions under pressure. It also reinforced the value of learning from experienced mentors and building skills step by step—reminding me that confidence and competence come from practice, patience, and continuous learning. I first encountered this book during my IWLS Backpacking and Canyoneering Guide Course, and it has stayed with me ever since.

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Jason Grodman

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