Michael Roberts has been one of Richard’s closest friends since their senior year at Trinity University. Over the last fourteen years they’ve hiked and climbed untold hundreds of miles in some of America’s most exquisite wildernesses. Richard credits Mike with teaching (and sometimes re-teaching) him just about everything he knows about backcountry survival and comfort. They’ve also been known to grill the odd steak while planning the next adventure.

Denis Taman-Bradette has been Ashley’s best friend for over five years. Denis possesses some of the most valuable qualities one can hope for in a friend: an astute listener, articulate, discerning, non-judgemental, and creatively supportive and inspiring. Denis’ presence has always had a calming effect on Ashley, as his influence has encouraged her to trust her intuition and follow her heart.