In this follow-up to our conversation with Casting for Recovery’s Executive Director, Susan Gaetz, we’re joined by Kara Armano—a breast cancer survivor and participant-turned-leader of CfR’s powerful retreats. Kara sits down with Haley to share how fly fishing, connection, and time in nature helped shape her healing journey.

She reflects on the unexpected challenges of rural recovery, the deep bonds formed on the water, and why retreats like these matter more than ever. With 1 in 8 women in the U.S. affected by breast cancer, CfR’s work offers not just an escape, but a path toward renewal, community, and peace.

Topics

[0:00] Introduction: Kara Armano

[3:30] Breast cancer diagnosis and finding CfR

[6:00] Why community matters in rural recover

[7:30] Inside the retreat: A weekend with CfR

[13:15] Fly fishing vs. connection: what matters

[17:00] Closing thoughts and getting involved

Need professional help finding, buying or selling a legacy ranch, contact us:

Mirr Ranch Group

901 Acoma Street

Denver, CO 80204

Phone: (303) 623-4545

https://www.MirrRanchGroup.com/

A hidden gem tucked between Steamboat and Rifle, Meeker, Colorado is a quiet town brimming with western history. From its deep ranching roots and untouched landscapes to world-class elk hunting and fly fishing in the White River, Meeker offers unmatched outdoor recreation and true wild West feel. Whether you’re seeking privacy, public land access, or a strong ranching community away from the resort-town sprawl, Meeker might just be your perfect escape.

Topics

[0:00] Welcome back to The Back Forty!

[0:58] Meeker, Colorado

[1:59] What Makes Meeker Unique?

[2:51] Amenities Around Meeker, CO

[3:25] Downton Meeker

[4:11] Recreation: What’s Around Meeker?

[5:23] Best Time of Year to Visit

[6:04] Exploring Meeker and Beyond

[6:46] Ranching: Why Meeker?

[8:58] Mirr Properties Around Meeker

[9:51] See You in Meeker!

Links

Contact Harry Woodward

Elk Creek Lodge Listings

Visit Meeker

Need professional help finding, buying or selling a legacy ranch, contact us:

Mirr Ranch Group

901 Acoma Street

Denver, CO 80204

Phone: (303) 623-4545

https://www.MirrRanchGroup.com/

This week, we get an inspiring story with a Western twist. Haley is joined by Susan Gaetz, Executive Director of Casting for Recovery, a nonprofit organization that combines the therapeutic power of nature and fly fishing to support women recovering from breast cancer. Susan shares how the organization got started, its growth to nearly every state in the country, and why a fly rod can be a surprising but powerful tool for healing.

Tune in to learn how ranchers, landowners, and anglers alike can support this life-changing mission - and why access to wild places matters more than ever.

Topics

[0:00] Intro: Casting for Recovery with Susan Gaetz

[2:07] The Origins of CfT: Fly Fishing Meets Oncology

[7:27] What Happens at a Retreat?

[14:40] Adapting to Underserved Populations

[23:12] Public vs Private Water: How Landowners Can Help

[26:45] CfR’s Grassroots Impact and Looking Ahead

[29:30] Closing Thoughts and Where to Learn More

Links

Casting for Recovery

Donate

Volunteer

Need professional help finding, buying or selling a legacy ranch, contact us:

Mirr Ranch Group

901 Acoma Street

Denver, CO 80204

Phone: (303) 623-4545

https://www.MirrRanchGroup.com/