HUMAN

Name: Jody Potts-Joseph

Age: 48
Residence: Eagle Village, Alaska

Occupation: Guide, consultant, and producer

How many Years involved with Iditarod: Since I was 8 

First Year Ran Iditarod: 2026

Iditarod Role: Musher

Current Location: Downtown Anchorage Ceremonial Start Staging Area

Date of Photo: March 7, 2026
Temperature: 16F

Question 1: What is it about running sled dogs that you love so much?

I got involved with the Iditarod when I was eight. When I was eight, my village school principal did the Iditarod. And so, I was really interested since I was pretty small. But as far as involved in the Iditarod, it’s my rookie year.

Question 2: What, who or how and when & why did you first get involved running the Iditarod?

I’m here today, and involved with Iditarod, because it’s a big goal, and it would be a huge accomplishment to cross the finish line.
And I love mushing, and I love representing our people. So representing our culture, and sharing that with others, is important. And hopefully, will inspire the next generation of mushers from the village.

Question 3:  Tell me about just one of your most memorable Iditarod experiences running the Iditarod.

One of my most memorable… I don’t have a most memorable experience in the Iditarod yet, because this is my first year, but I’m looking forward to being on the trail, and meeting people in the villages.

What in life do you know for sure?:

 

What I know for sure in life is never let fear control you. Fear is not an option, and you’ve got to chase your dreams, and live strong.