Destination Marketing Episodes

Visit Nome, Alaska: 4-Season Beauty, Culture, and Heritage. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today's episode, we're taking you to the far reaches of Western Alaska for a conversation with Shauntel Bruner-Alvanna, Executive Director of the Nome Convention & Visitors Bureau. Shauntel shares her journey from Chicago to the rugged, off-grid heart of Nome—a community shaped by breathtaking landscapes, rich indigenous cultures, and a unique, subsistence-based lifestyle. DIS...

Visit Leadville - Twin Lakes: History, Adventure, and Community in Colorado’s High Country Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! Today, we’re taking you to the rugged heart of the Rockies as we sit down with Adam Ducharme, the Tourism Director for Visit Leadville- Twin Lakes in Lake County, Colorado. Adam joins us to share the rich tapestry of history, adventure, and community that defines this authentic mountain destination. In this episode, Adam tells us ...

Pendleton County CVB: Dark Skies, Rugged Trails, and Hidden Gems in West Virginia. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we’re heading deep into the ridges and valleys of Pendleton County, West Virginia, with Annie Humes, Executive Director of the Pendleton County Convention and Visitors Bureau. Pendleton County is an area that stands apart for its untouched natural beauty, rugged mountains, and a quiet charm that’s becoming rare in our world of constant connectivity. An...

Visit Muskegon: Your Guide to Michigan’s Four-Season Outdoor Playground. Welcome back to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today’s episode, we’re heading to one of Michigan’s hidden gems with guest Bob Lukens, Community Development Director for Visit Muskegon and the Muskegon County Parks Department. Bob gives us a true insider’s tour of Muskegon County, a destination boasting three state parks, over 27 miles of spectacular beaches, impressive dunes, and a vibrant blend of h...

Visit Chicago Southland: Nature, Food, Sports, and Community Spirit. In today’s Outdoor Adventure Series episode, we sit with Mary Patchin, President and CEO of Visit Chicago Southland, to spotlight the vibrant communities just south and southwest of Chicago. Mary shares a behind-the-scenes look at how her organization connects visitors to the region’s diverse offerings, from bustling town centers and family-friendly attractions to expansive forest preserves and trails perfect for outdo...

Visit Cullman: Festivals, Outdoor Adventures, and Southern Charm. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today's episode, we're chatting with Harmony Heard, the Executive Director of Visit Cullman in Alabama. Harmony shares about the area’s rapid growth, award-winning festivals, unique agritourism experiences, and endless outdoor adventure opportunities. From the famous Alabama Strawberry Festival and authentic German Christkindlmarkt, to skydiving, glamping, and world-class bass...

Visit Medina County: Outdoor Fun, Local Eats, and Community Pride. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we sit down with Jodi Robbins, Executive Director, and Matt Horner, Programs Coordinator, from Visit Medina County and the Medina County Convention and Visitors Bureau in Ohio. Nestled just 20 miles south of Cleveland, Medina County is a hidden gem home to vibrant small towns, award-winning parks, and culinary finds, all set against a community that prides itsel...

Discover Vermilion County: Nature, Recreation, and Education. Welcome back to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series. Tracey Fentem from the Danville Area CVB introduced us to our guests today, Lara Danzl and Tim Edison. Lara is the Environmental Education Supervisor for the Vermillion County Conservation District, and Tim is the Site Superintendent for the Kickapoo State Recreation Area and Middleport State Fish and Wildlife Area. Lara and Tim offer insights into the fantastic...

Travel Wrangell: Alaska’s Hidden Gem and Rich Indigenous Culture. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, J.R Meek, the new Marketing and Community Development Coordinator for Travel Wrangell, and Ed Caum, the Tourism Coordinator for the Wrangell Cooperative Association, join us to share the wonders of Wrangell, Alaska. Situated in the breathtaking southeast region of Alaska, Wrangell is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Inside Passage. J.R and Ed reveal the rich histo...

Visit San Marcos: Texas Hill Country Trails, River Fun, and Cultural Gems. Today on the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast, we're thrilled to have Sarah Smith join us. She's the Digital Marketing Specialist for Visit San Marcos. Nestled between the vibrant city of Austin and historic San Antonio, San Marcos is your ideal getaway, offering a taste of Texas Hill Country charm and urban excitement. Sarah paints a vivid picture of this hidden gem, highlighting San Marcos’ cultural and natural b...

Visit Shipshewana: Embrace Culture and Outdoor Adventure in Indiana's Amish Heartland. The Outdoor Adventure Series sits down with Sonya Nash, the Executive Director of Visit Shipshewana and the LaGrange County Convention and Visitors Bureau. Join us as Sonya takes us on a journey to Shipshewana, a charming and scenic area in northern Indiana known for its rich Amish culture and inviting countryside. DISCUSSION TOPICS Introduction to Shipshewana Origin of the name Shipshewana, named afte...

Discover Vinton County: The Perfect Retreat for Nature and Small-Town Charm. Today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series takes us to Vinton County, Ohio, where we chat with Amanda Boring, the Executive Director of the Vinton County Department of Tourism. Amanda shares the marvels of this least populated county in Ohio. From breathtaking hiking trails and ghostly tales in the Moonville Tunnel to charming small-town experiences and exceptional local cuisine, Amanda gives us a heartfelt l...

Explore Gwinnett: Tourism, Film, Sports, and Outdoor Adventures. Today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series takes us to Gwinnett County in Georgia as we chat with Lisa Anders, the Chief Operating Officer of Explore Gwinnett. And Cameron Trice will take us on a tour of the Explore Gwinnett website. Gwinnett County is Located a short drive northeast of downtown Atlanta and boasts a growing reputation for international food and culture and a growing craft beer and brewery scene. Lisa shares...

Visit Staunton: The Shenandoah Valley's Hidden Gem for Nature, History, and Community. Today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series takes us on a journey to the picturesque Shenandoah Valley in Virginia as we chat with Samantha Johnson, the Director of Tourism for Visit Staunton. Nestled in a sweet spot close to major urban areas like D.C. and Richmond, Staunton is a small town rich in history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Staunton is a must-visit four-season destination,...

Experience the Knob Creek Conservancy: Nature Trails and History in Hodgenville, Kentucky. Welcome to another exciting episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! Today, we're thrilled to bring you a conversation with two exceptional guests, Jimmy Shaw and Jim B. Phelps, representing the historic destination of Hodgenville, Kentucky, and the Knob Creek Conservancy. Jimmy hails from an area rich in history, with deep roots tracing back to Abraham Lincoln. Known for its charming small-town ...

Visit Manitowoc: Experience the Maritime Capital of Wisconsin The Outdoor Adventure Series is thrilled to have Courtney Hansen, the Director of Tourism for Visit Manitowoc, join us. Located in northeast Wisconsin, Manitowoc is a prime destination known for its rich maritime history and stunning natural beauty. Courtney shares insights into Manitowoc's outdoor activities, local hospitality, and fascinating historical attractions, including the famous S.S. Badger car ferry and the recently desig...

Blue Water Area CVB: Discover the Blue on Michigan's Thumbcoast In this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we welcome Michael Hensley, the President and CEO of the Blue Water Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, which covers Michigan's Thumbcoast. Michael shares his passion for outdoor stewardship and highlights Michigan's Thumbcoast's natural beauty and resources, which extend 140 miles along Lake St. Clair, St. Clair River, and Lake Huron. He discusses how the area embodies a rich naut...

The Oregon Coast: 363 Miles of Possibilities and Experiences on The People's Coast In this Outdoor Adventure Series podcast episode, we're thrilled to welcome Lynnee Jacks, the Industry Communications Coordinator for the Oregon Coast Visitors Association. Lynnee is passionate about sharing the natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities found along the 363 miles of the Oregon coastline. Join us as we delve into the history, culture, and environmental stewardship that make the Ore...

Visit Beloit: Four Seasons For Your Next Adventure Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast. Savannah Schindler is our guest today. Savannah is a Public Relations Specialist for Visit Beloit, who brings a wealth of knowledge about this charming city on the Wisconsin and Illinois border. This episode explores Beloit's vibrant outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. From its rich food culture and lively farmer's market to unique attractions like the Beloit Sky Carp...

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 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 ...

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...