Expedition Presentations: Adventure. History. Maine's State Dog
Real Adventure. Real Dogs. A Story Students Never Forget.
Two presentations geared for adult or student audiences- With teacher, author, and adventurer, Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes
What Does It Take to Survive the Arctic by Dog Team?
In this unforgettable live presentation, your group comes face-to-face with real sled dogs and experiences the true story of one of the most daring journeys in history — and the modern expedition that retraced it.
This is more than a presentation.
It’s a real-world story of survival, leadership, and perseverance — brought to life in a way attendees will remember for years.
About Jonathan Hayes
Jonathan Hayes is a teacher, author, and expedition musher who completed a 750-mile journey retracing the historic 1925 serum run.
Through extreme cold, dangerous terrain, and constant decision-making, he experienced firsthand what it takes to lead a dog team across Alaska in the coldest, darkest days of the low arctic winter.
He shares that journey in his book One Hundred Winters and an upcoming documentary — and now brings that story directly to students and audiences, alongside the sled dogs themselves.
What Makes This Different
Most presentations and school assemblies are quickly forgotten.
This one isn’t.
The audience won’t just listen — they will experience:
- 🐾 Live sled dogs on campus
- 🛷 Real sled and expedition gear
- 🎬 Stunning photos and video from Alaska
- ❓ Interactive Q&A
- 📖 Book signing opportunities
👉 It’s part presentation, part real-world encounter.
The Story Your Audience Will Experience
This program brings together three powerful elements:
HISTORY: The Original Race
The life-and-death mission of the 1925 serum run
The Modern Expedition
A 750-mile journey across the low arctic — facing extreme cold, thin ice, and the constant challenge of knowing when to push forward and when to stop
The Legacy Today
How those same legendary dogs — the Seppala Siberian Sleddog — are now recognized as Maine’s official state dog
What Audiences Learn
This presentation connects directly to both curriculum (history, science geography) and character development:
- Perseverance through adversity
- Decision-making under pressure
- Leadership and responsibility
- Geography and history
- Science of endurance and working dogs
Most importantly:
Audiences learn what it means to persevere through adversity.
Presentation Options
School Assembly Program
Ideal for Grades 4–12
- Age-appropriate, engaging format
- Strong educational connections
- Designed for large group assemblies
Community & Public Events
Perfect for libraries, churches, and community organizations
- Expanded storytelling and discussion
- Family-friendly format
- Great for evening or special events
The Story Isn’t Over
This work continues beyond the presentation.
Upcoming training runs, expeditions, and events give students the chance to follow the team in real time.
Schools and organizations can stay connected and watch the journey unfold.
Follow along:
- Instagram: instagram.com/mushmaine/
- Facebook: facebook.com/PolandSpringSeppalas
- YouTube: youtube.com/@MushMaine/shorts
- Podcast: Explorer with Jonathan Nathaniel Hayes
- Website: MushMaine.com
Why Schools and Organizations Choose This Program
- Unique, memorable experience
- Live animals on campus
- Strong educational value
- Real-world story students connect with
- Aligns with SEL and character education goals
👉 This is the kind of program audiences talk about long after it’s over.
Booking Information
A limited number of presentations are available each season.
For schools, we are doing a state tour for two weeks this fall. September 28, through October 9. We request schools try to book during these two weeks. Other dates will be made available when possible.
To check availability, pricing, or schedule a program:
Email: moc.liamg@seyahleinahtannahtanoj
🧊 Bring This Story to Your School or Community
Give your group the chance to experience something real — a story of courage, survival, and the incredible Maine State Dogs that made it possible.
