Connect How did your love story begin?

We're high school sweethearts, meeting in band class. Hannah played the baritone saxophone, and Erik played the contra-alto clarinet, so we were seated near each other. After high school, Hannah took a bird biology course in college, and we both got hooked! This hobby has led us on many fun adventures, jobs, a podcast, and a fantastic community spanning the world. We are so fortunate to grow together in this fun activity that takes us all over the place to find birds and share with others!

What is your favorite memory you've shared as a couple?

It's commonly known that albatrosses mate for life. We visited Kauai in 2024 and planned to see some Laysan Albatross at the Kilauea Lighthouse. When we arrived, we drove around the neighborhood we were staying in and stumbled upon a few albatrosses in front yards! The next morning, we returned to watch them dance together, settle onto their nests, and reaffirm the bonds with their partner. It was amazing to see these beautiful birds so up close, dancing and calling to one another!

What would you do with $20,000?

We are passionate about sharing birds with others and opening their eyes to nature. With $20,000, we will put together birding loaner backpacks and distribute those to organizations that work with children. We will continue to use our "Hannah and Erik Go Birding" platform to highlight programs conserving birds and their habitats and search for birds on off-the-beaten paths. Going outside makes us happier, healthier, and smarter, and we want to encourage everyone to explore nature.