The Art Box - Episode 258 - ” Journey with a Heart: A Conversation with ’Walk of Ages’ Author Withanee Andersen ”

We had the distinct pleasure of sitting down with Withanee Andersen , co-author of Walk of Ages. Join us for an inspiring conversation as Withanee shares the story behind her incredible 131-mile hike from Mount Whitney, the highest point in the continental U.S., to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in Death Valley National Park. This journey, inspired by her father, Jim Andersen, is as heartfelt as it is extraordinary.

Our wide-ranging discussion touches on the motivations for this grueling trek, the challenges faced along the way—bumps, bruises, wildfires, and oxygen deprivation—as well as moments of joy, engagement rings, French toast, and beer. This episode will make you laugh, bring a tear to your eye, and leave you in awe of Withanee’s determination and humanity. Don’t miss this incredible story!

Withanee Andersen earned her bachelor’s degree from the Reynold’s School of Journalism at the University of Nevada, Reno. Her first published article was included in Sagebrushed: Coming of Age and Working in Nevada. She was a wildland firefighter for many years and is now the communications coordinator for the City of Sparks in Nevada.
 
Jim Andersen (1944–2022) was a freelance writer whose career began in 1980 with Nevada Magazine. He also wrote for the Battle Mountain Bugle and the Reese River Reveille. In 2005, he received first place from the Nevada Press Association for the Best Local Non-Staff Column. He is the author of Lost in Austin: A Nevada Memoir and Sometimes a Great notions, Isn’t, so much. This book is his final work. 

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