Whitney Erickson. “Wild Nerd Whitney” Supporting Those that Support Us via OpenWater.
Whitney Erickson is a non-profit leader as Executive Director of Open Water; an organization dedicated to supporting members of our military and first responder communities.
She is also a mermaid, a pirate, an educator, and a badass.
She is also one of the coolest and most authentic people I know.
And I’ve known Whitney for a very long time.
She grew up in the waterman world of Orange County. Outrigger, surf, prone paddling, hula and boats; she has forever lived in and on the ocean and has not left it.
Her story and her storytelling are rad; full of fun and adventure… but not without trauma. Her path to the place she finds herself today truly seems to be one of destiny and we’re grateful for her role in supporting those that support us.
Time: 0:59
Open Water Crossing
Time: 0:49
The Channel
Time: 0:47
Open Water
Time: 0:49
Water Immersion
0:00 – “Connecting Stories of Good Deeds”
8:51 – “Wild Nerd Whitney”
11:47 – Accepting Authentic Self
18:24 – Educational Trips: Bridging Cultures
24:46 – “Being Authentic in Interviews”
31:03 – “Challenges in Teacher Preparation”
33:50 – Canoe Paddling Childhood Memories
39:16 – Polynesian Dance Show Highlights
44:13 – Quick Military Wedding Decision
51:46 – “Friends Prompt Divorce Intervention”
55:14 – “Awakening and Acceptance Journey”
1:03:54 – “Unexpected Trip to Tahoe Drama”
1:08:01 – “Veterans Day Paddle Challenge”
1:13:55 – Open Water: Nature & Fellowship Healing
1:16:56 – Performance Retreat & Canoe Racing
1:21:01 – “Preparedness and Consistency Praise”
1:27:36 – Empathetic, Inclusive Leader
1:32:47 – Supporting Community Pillars Everyday