Sisters in the Backcountry:VNTRbirds Founders on Safety, Skills, and Community
This week, I sat down with sisters Kelley and Leanne Wren — founders of VNTRbirds, an outdoor education company creating space for women, femme, and non-binary folks to learn avalanche skills, progress on mountain bikes, and find genuine community. We covered their log cabin childhood, the slow build to running a statewide program, and what it really takes to lead in male-dominated outdoor spaces.
Listen to the episode below 👇
Growing Up Outside
Kelley and Leanne share how their childhood shaped their deep connection to being outside. Their parents were committed ski bums, getting all three siblings on snow early and fostering a lifelong love for sliding on skis or snowboards.
From Blog to Business
VNTRbirds began as a travel blog during a New Zealand abroad semester. Over time, it shifted into something bigger: a way to bring women and femme folks together through backcountry education and mountain biking. The sisters talk about donation-based beginnings, early meetups with only one attendee, and the point where they realized they could combine forces.
Community Over Competition
“You don’t need to be pro. You can take forever to get to the top. People want to ride with you.”
We dig into how VNTRbirds designs their programs to feel welcoming for all levels — from AIARE courses to MTB skills clinics. Their focus is on building confidence, safety, and connection, not gatekeeping who “belongs” in the mountains.
The Realities of Running a Women-Owned Guide Company
“Yes, we’re permitted. Yes, we’re certified. We’re professional women running a legit business.”
Kelley and Leanne talk openly about the extra scrutiny and assumptions that come with operating in a male-dominated guiding space and the importance of mentors, community partners, and allies who helped them build credibility along the way.
Takeaways
A slow build is normal — progress takes years, not months
Community-focused programs require creativity and listening
Mentorship and representation fundamentally change outdoor spaces
Access matters: scholarships and shadowing opportunities open doors
You don’t have to be a pro to belong in the backcountry or on a bike
Connect With VNTRbirds
Website: https://vntrbirds.com
Instagram: @vntrbirds
Tarin It Up Links
Podcast IG: @tarin.it.up.podcast
Newsletter: tarinitup.myflodesk.com/tarinitup