Into the Great Bear – Norm Hann’s Adventures on Canada’s Wild Coast

Into the Great Bear – Norm Hann’s Adventures on Canada’s Wild Coast

Author: Simon Hutchinson December 8, 2025 Duration: 1:53:37
SUPfm The International Stand Up Paddle Board Podcast
SportsFitnessHealthHealth & FitnessHobbiesLeisureWilderness

What happens when you trade a safe and secure teaching career, for a life on the wild side.

We sit down with Norm Hann, Canadian expedition paddler, guide, and educator — known for his work in the Great Bear Rainforest and for pioneering multi-day SUP expeditions on Canada’s wild coast.

Norm shares his remarkable transformation from a classroom teacher in Ontario to a wilderness guide and advocate for the Great Bear Rainforest. From being adopted into the Raven Clan in Hartley Bay to shaping the early days of stand-up paddleboarding, Norm’s story is about courage, connection, and following your calling.

In this episode, Norm shares:

  • How leaving a secure career opened the door to purpose and adventure
  • What makes the Great Bear Rainforest one of the planet’s most magical places
  • How his adoption into the Raven Clan shaped his identity and outlook
  • The origins of his pioneering SUP expeditions on Canada’s west coast

Watch the movie Stand for free here

** Pardon the audio gremlins in the first ten minutes of the episode! **

Connect with Norm Hann:

Website – https://www.normhann.com

Join Norm in the Maldives or on other expeditions here

Instagram – @normhann

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Mentioned in this episode:

Paddle UK and ICF World Cup 2026

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Paddle UK 2026 World Cup

FlowForce Paddles from Oscar Propulsion

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Starboard

We want to thank our lead sponsor Starboard for supporting this season of the SUPfm Podcast Whether you're a seasoned racer, an adventurous explorer, or a beginner, Starboard has the perfect board for you. Choose Starboard for unparalleled quality and performance across all levels of paddleboarding

Starboard Website


Hosted by Simon Hutchinson, SUPfm The International Stand Up Paddle Board Podcast is a deep dive into the world of stand-up paddleboarding that goes far beyond basic tips. This isn't just about gear reviews; it's a global conversation for anyone who feels the pull of the water. Each episode connects you with voices from across the SUP community, unpacking everything from practical technique and fitness to the sheer joy of adventure and the unique challenges of disciplines like surfing and down-winding. The discussions are crafted to be genuinely useful, whether you're figuring out your first stroke or planning a multi-day expedition. You'll find honest talk about the issues paddlers face everywhere, all with the core aim of building confidence and stoke. The real mission here is simple: to give you the knowledge and inspiration to spend more time on your board and to continuously evolve your relationship with paddling. Tune in for a podcast that meets you at your skill level and pushes you toward the next horizon, transforming how you think about every session on the water.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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