Our staff

Kalen Keir,
aka Beaver *(he/him):*
Founding Member & Guide Trainer

-Certified by the American Canoe Assn. as a Level 2 Sea Kayak Instructor
-Raised in Door County, WI and all over Mexico (Spanish-speaking tours available on request)
-18 seasons as a guide, 11 in MPLS
-Also does theatre, sound design, music, puppetry
-Popcorn king, Certified Uncle (level 1)

Amber Lynum,
aka Sparky *(she/her)*:

Lead Guide + Marketing

Amber Lynum is a Jac[queline] of all trades—linguist, marketing magician, wine barista and a brief stint as a mason/beekeeper.
She’s worn many hats and her past experiences have all had a great influence on and led her to the fulfilling work that she is doing now: intentional travel advocate/ paddling guide/writer. It’s too hard to choose just one!
Through community engagement and storytelling, her goal is to spark interest and generate action around conversation and localized, environmentally-conscious travel.
Certifications: First Aid/CPR, Swift Water Rescue,
ACA Level II

Andy Landy *(they/them)*: Guide

Hello! I've been head over heels for waterways (lakes, rivers, estuaries, you name it) for nearly as long as I can remember. Growing up with disabled parents, I found greater joy in activities that were convenient to their needs, rather than ones where they could only watch me. Canoeing, kayaking, and other water sports can be incredibly accessible, and can remind one of their own strength at the same time. There's no better place to bond with loved ones and see a new side of them than "on trail." I am so excited to share what I know about these incredible places along the mighty Mississippi; we can create memories together in the present while doing our best to honor the history of these waters, all while giving thanks to those who continue their stewardship of Minnesota. Let's get paddling!

Paul **Gronneberg *(he/him)*: Guide**

I grew up near a river where I was first introduced to canoeing. Two trips to the Boundary Waters as a teenager cemented a lifelong interest in paddle sports. I am a previous member of the Superior Kayak and Outdoor Adventure Club. I recently retired from my career as a mental health therapist. As much as I enjoyed my work, I am greatly enjoying the freedom to spend more time with extended family, pursuing my interests in music, writing, tennis, golf, scuba, spontaneous side trips, sleeping in, and of course sharing time on one of the world's great rivers talking with interesting people. Hope to see you on the water!

Amy Harr *(she/her)*:
Guide

Hi! The last two years I've been drawn to the water. Ever since I first paddled in a kayak on a beautiful lake and felt the water pass by under me, I've been hooked. I've been kayaking and on the water in any capacity I can be since. As an artist and storyteller, I tend to focus on the small things along the trail and end up talking about everything connected to it. I love connecting with others about their stories so I'm excited to talk about the history of the river and what it means to the people living around it when guiding! Some fun facts about me: I am terrified of geese (long story) and I used to be a cheerleader! Ask me about it!

**Lydia Moran (she/her): Guide**

Hello PB community! I am thrilled to be on the river this summer. I was lucky enough to take BWCA canoe trips as a preteen and later guided students through that wilderness. I want to help people remember they are a part of a vast and incredible natural world. In addition to guiding, I carry out that purpose through storytelling (I'm a freelance editor and writer during the day)! I grew up in the western TC 'burbs, and now live in NE Minneapolis with a little black cat called Stormy. I also like making collages, backpacking, and reading the (physical!) newspaper.

**Kenzi Allen (she/her): Guide**

This is Kenzi’s first summer back with Paddle Bridge after 5 years abroad. She’s happy to be getting reacquainted with the river and sharing all its beauty with our guests. Kenzi is a local actor and theatre maker born and raised in the Twin Cities.

**Gus Metzig (he/him): Guide**

Hi, I'm currently studying pure math and mechanical engineering at Montana State University in Bozeman. I love doing every outdoor activity out there, and I especially enjoy time on the water. I also enjoy listening to and making music music on a variety of instruments and genres. I am so excited to spend time kayaking through the city with you all.

**Maggie Anderson (they/she): Guide**

Hi!, I'm Maggie! I am excited to get out on the water with you, this summer! I have been canoeing and kayaking since I was a kid where I found that I am re-energized by nature, water, and paddling time! Before Paddle Bridge, I worked for YMCA overnight camps for 5 years, leading canoe trips in the Boundary Waters and teaching people how to canoe. While I am a canoer at heart (I once freaked out in a class get-to-know-you exercise and declared that "I am passionate about canoes"), I am excited to explore my love for kayaking and the beauty of the nature around us, in the city! I hope to see you out on the water!

**Lara McGlinch (she/her): Guide**

Hi! I have been drawn to the water for as long as I can remember, and got my first start paddling through a YMCA summer camp. I made some of my best friends along rivers, and I look forward to sharing my appreciation of them with you all on the water! I love using rivers as a way to connect with others, and to teach about the importance of conservation! Outside of paddling, I attend school in Virginia, and enjoy reading, cooking and playing outside with friends!