Community Episodes

Visit Elkhart County: Classic Small Towns on the Heritage Trail Terry Mark is our guest on the Outdoor Adventure Series today. Terry is the Director of Communications and Public Relations for Visit Elkhart County, located in the picturesque northern region of Indiana, right on the Michigan border. In this episode, Terry takes us on a journey through the charming and vibrant Elkhart County, sharing insights into its rich history, cultural offerings, and natural wonders. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS The H...

Visit West Volusia: Old Florida. New Vibe. Georgia C. Turner is our guest on the Outdoor Adventure Series today. Georgia is the Executive Director at Visit West Volusia in Florida, between Daytona Beach and Orlando. West Volusia is a hidden gem brimming with natural beauty, historic charm, and vibrant community life. From the serene Blue Spring State Park, a sanctuary for manatees, to the rich cultural vibe of downtown Deland, Georgia shares the many outdoor adventures and experiences that make...

Experience British Columbia's Beauty. Don Sharpe is our guest today on the Outdoor Adventure Series. Don is the Vice President of Resort Operations for Holiday Trails Resorts, overseeing three premium RV resorts, a water park, and the breathtaking Manning Park in British Columbia. In this episode, we explore the unique experiences offered at these stunning locations, from mountain adventures in Sunshine Valley to family-friendly amenities at Camperland. We'll hear about the challenges and joys ...

Experience Cedar Falls - An American Discovery Trail Town Jennifer Pickar, Tourism and Cultural Programs Manager for Cedar Falls, Iowa, is today's guest on the Outdoor Adventure Series. Jennifer shares all that Cedar Falls offers, from extensive trail systems and state parks to unique cultural and recreational events. We discuss the city's outdoor beauty in all four seasons and how this community provides opportunities for everyone. DISCUSSION Location and Overview of Cedar FallsProximity to ...

Embrace The Digital Nomadic Lifestyle Welcome to another exciting episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series. Today's guest is Ryan Mellon, an inspiring individual who has embraced the lifestyle of a digital nomad. Ryan started his journey working two grueling jobs but was inspired to change his life after traveling solo to Costa Rica. Since then, he has traveled extensively, reinventing his career in real estate to support his location-independent lifestyle. He now dedicates his time to coaching...

Maayan Gordon on Building Communities and Creating Lifelong Bonds Through Outdoor Adventures Welcome to another exciting episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, we're joined by Mayan Gordon, founder of Community Launchpad. Maayan is an expert in community building, dedicating her career to helping entrepreneurs, thought leaders and businesses create thriving and engaging online communities. Maayan shares her journey from founding Community Launchpad to recognizing the profound impact o...

Galena Country: Four Seasons, So Many Reasons Tom Rynott, Communications Director for Galena Country Tourism, is our guest on the Outdoor Adventure Series today. Join us as we explore the historical and recreational treasures that make Galena a year-round destination. From its roots in lead mining and ties to nine Civil War generals, including Ulysses S. Grant, to the bustling Main Street filled with over 125 independent businesses, Galena offers a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor fu...

Fun awaits you in Kalamazoo! Dana Wagner, the Director of Marketing and Communications for Discover Kalamazoo, is our guest on the Outdoor Adventure Series today. Join us as we explore the hidden gem of Kalamazoo County, Michigan. —a vibrant destination perfect for year-round outdoor adventures. So sit back, relax, and let us transport you to Kalamazoo, a place where city energy meets laid-back charm. DISCUSSION Discover Kalamazoo OverviewPromote tourism and support events/meetings in Kalamaz...

Visit Boone County: Natural Wonders, Rail Rides to River Adventures Kris Blocker, Executive Director for Visit Boone County, is our guest on the Outdoor Adventure Series today. Kris has dedicated the past eight years to promoting Boone County, Iowa's unique charm and natural beauty. With an appreciation for the distinct landscape shaped by the Des Moines River Valley, Kris tirelessly works to highlight what sets Boone County apart from the rest of the state. Through her efforts, Kris aims to d...

Visit Mansfield Texas: Outdoor Adventures and Community Charm Tim Roberts, Marketing and Promotions Manager at Mansfield, TX CVB, is our guest on the Outdoor Adventure Series today. In this episode, we dive into the best of Mansfield, which offers an inviting blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. We'll explore breathtaking outdoor destinations like Oliver Nature Park and Cedar Hills State Park and nearby adventures outside Mansfield. Tim will share insights on the vibrant community,...

The Adventure Detour: A Guide to Full-Time RV Living Vanessa Russell is our guest on the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast today! Vanessa, her husband Scott, their daughter, and their four-legged furbaby have lived the full-time RV lifestyle for almost a decade. They travel the country, working as digital nomads and roadschooling, and share the joys and challenges of life on the road. We'll explore their current travel setup, compare different types of RVs, and discuss how COVID-19 has impacte...

Visit Hagerstown: History, Cultural Trails, Baseball, and Outdoor Adventures Dan Spedden, the President and CEO of Visit Hagerstown, is our guest on the Outdoor Adventure Series today. In this episode, we dive into Hagerstown, Maryland's vibrant community and economic revitalization. We'll explore how this charming city, just 70 miles from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, draws visitors with its rich historical significance, outdoor activities, and unique local attractions. Discover the impact...

Visit 29 Palms: Dining, Events, Natural Beauty, and Slow Travel Breanne Dusastre, Director of Marketing for Visit 29 Palms, joins us on today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Twentynine Palms is a premier travel destination in California's Mojave Desert and is at the steps of the iconic Joshua Tree National Park. Breanne highlights the town's commitment to supporting nonprofit conservation organizations and its ongoing downtown revitalization projects. We also explore why Twentynine P...

Visit Historic Carson City: Iconic Trails, Scenic Adventures, and Seasonal Festivals Lydia Beck, Marketing & PR Manager at Visit Carson City, joins us on today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Located a short drive from Lake Tahoe. Carson City offers exceptional opportunities for outdoor activities, great food, and comfortable lodging. We explore Carson City's rich history, including the Kit Carson Trail, Victorian homes, and key attractions like the Governor's Mansion, the Nevada St...

Catherine Jenkins, Marketing and Communications Manager for Visit Central Delaware, joins us on today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Catherine takes us on a journey through Central Delaware, a charming region steeped in rich history and vibrant community events, from the NASCAR races and Delaware State Fair to the hidden gems like Amish Country Bike Tours and the serene Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge. We'll explore why this small but lively area is a must-visit. Catherine als...

This is the 9th episode of our collaboration with Visit El Paso to promote El Paso, Southwest Texas, New Mexico, and the State of Chihuahua MX as they host the OWAA 2024 annual conference. Brooke Underwood is a passionate advocate for El Paso's unique charms. She relishes the variety of beauty and activities that the desert offers. Brooke will share insights into El Paso's diverse and collaborative tourism structure, the strategic efforts that have bolstered the city’s reputation, and heartwarm...

Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series. This is the 5th episode of our collaboration with Visit El Paso to promote El Paso, Southwest Texas, New Mexico, and the State of Chihuahua MX, as they host the OWAA's 2024 annual conference this year. Our guest today is Mike Coulter, the seasoned race director of the El Paso Marathon, who's been a cornerstone in the running industry for over 30 years. With the marathon now in its 17th year, Mike shares the inspiring jou...

Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series. This is the 4th episode of our collaboration with Visit El Paso to promote El Paso, Southwest Texas, New Mexico, and the State of Chihuahua MX, as they host the OWAA's 2024 annual conference. In today's episode, we're chatting with Jamil Moutran, the Owner of Rent A UTV Off Road Adventures. We dive deep into the off-roading scene in El Paso, Texas, where the thrill of exploration meets the community's dedication to safet...

After #OWAAFF2024, Howard had the pleasure of meeting Bob Cantler, the President and CEO of the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce. They discussed how the Johnson City Chamber is working to connect East Tennessee State University (ETSU) students, faculty, and local business leaders to address workforce challenges through innovative programs. We learned about ETSU's impact on education, especially in rural medicine, and how it influences local housing and workforce needs. Bob shares insights into...

Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series. This is the 2nd episode of our collaboration with Visit El Paso to promote El Paso, Southwest Texas, New Mexico, and the State of Chihuahua MX, as they host the OWAA's 2024 annual conference this year. In today's episode, we have a fascinating conversation with Cesar Mendez, the Park Superintendent of Franklin Mountains State Park. Cesar shares insights from his upbringing, love of nature and the outdoors, educational jo...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today's special episode, Discover Gems in Northeast Tennessee: Reflections from the OWAA Inaugural Field Fest 2024, we're diving into the recent OWAA Field Fest—a groundbreaking event that brings outdoor enthusiasts, writers, and journalists to lesser-known, rural destinations. We're joined by attendees and hosts who made this event a stellar success. We'll hear firsthand experiences from a dynamic mix of guests who explored northeast T...

Welcome back to another exciting episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series. This is the first episode of our collaboration with Visit El Paso to promote El Paso, Southwest Texas, New Mexico, and the State of Chihuahua MX, as they host the OWAA's 2024 annual conference this year. Today's episode with the Frontera Land Alliance is a real treat. We dive into the heart of conservation in the Chihuahuan Desert with our special guests, Janae' Reneaud Field, Executive Director, and Rocio Ronquillo, Ope...

Discover Unicoi County—Today, we're thrilled to have Austin Finch, the economic development director for the Joint Economic Development Board of Unicoi County. This is our ninth and final episode promoting Northeast Tennessee as a tourism destination. It is produced in collaboration with Visit Johnson City and regional partners hosting the OWAA's inaugural Field Fest event. Austin is passionate about growing Unicoi County’s economy through outdoor recreation and tourism. Get ready for insider t...

Visit Knoxville —Green Spaces, Artistic Flair, and Hidden Gems is the eighth episode in our series promoting Northeast Tennessee as a tourism destination. It is produced in collaboration with Visit Johnson City and regional partners hosting the OWAA's inaugural Field Fest event. Our guest is Kristen Combs, the Director of Communication and Social Strategies for Visit Knoxville. Kristen shares insights on the best outdoor activities and hidden gems in Knoxville, including unique experiences lik...