Meet the Night Crew

Ben Kvanli's life is defined by navigating the extremes and overcoming the impossible. After a devastating, near-death car crash left him unable to paddle or even walk distances for years, Ben used the river to heal. His intense quest to simply regain his life fueled an unprecedented comeback that took him all the way to the 1996 Olympic Games, eventually becoming the 2001 Extreme Kayak World Champion and an Eddie Bauer International Medalist.

Recognizing the profound therapeutic power of the water that gave him his life back, Ben dedicated his career to paying it forward. He leads Veterans Adventure Therapy and the Red River Racing Team, splitting his time between coaching Paralympic athletes and recruiting wounded warriors to find strength on the water.

Paddle with a Purpose: Every AustinLit tour is more than an adventure—it is a direct fundraiser. Your ticket helps fund these non-profit initiatives. Through proud partnerships with Texas ParaSport, Team River Runner, and Heroes on the Water, Ben ensures that world-class safety, elite mechanics, and the healing power of the river are accessible to everyone.

Karla Held is a premier ACA-certified SUP and kayak instructor, bringing world-class expertise to our Central Texas waters. A Rice University photography graduate and fluent Spanish interpreter, Karla honed her leadership skills as a long-term lead instructor for the Red River Racing Team. Today, she specializes in leading our signature nighttime glow trips, utilizing her photographer's eye to curate visually stunning river paddles across Canyon Lake, San Marcos, and the Guadalupe and Comal rivers.

But the adventure doesn't stop in Austin. Karla is your gateway to exploring the beautiful clear springs and limestone canyons of the Texas Hill Country, including the Barton Creek Greenbelt and beyond. For those looking for a global escape, Karla draws on an extensive international guiding resume—partnering with renowned outfitters like Team Buena Onda (Pucon Kayak Retreat), HuaXteca.com, KayakGuatemala.com, and Rivers and Peaks Travel—to bridge cultures and lead unforgettable global expeditions.

Jonathan and Veronica Cleveland are dedicated mentors, instructors, and artists whose lives are a testament to empowering individuals to realize their highest potential. As the driving force behind Cleveland Martial Arts Taekwondo, they deliver expert training that fosters discipline, confidence, and personal growth across all ages. Their passion for helping others transcends the dojang. Through Blind Culture Productions, they amplify their positive impact via music, using uplifting messages to connect deeply with the community.

Their commitment to service is legendary. Honored as Volunteers of the Year with Heroes on the Water, they have helped countless veterans and their families rehabilitate and find profound joy through the peace of the outdoors as skilled fishing guides. Beyond martial arts and music, Jonathan and Veronica serve as spiritual gurus, guiding individuals on a transformative journey of self-discovery toward purpose and strength. Together, they bring dynamic action, art, and an unparalleled spirit to every adventure they lead.