Podcast Series Episodes

Protecting Midwest Flyways and Local Habitats with the Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance - Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we’re joined by Matt Reetz, Executive Director of the Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance. Sponsored by Destination Madison—host of the 2026 Outdoor Writers Association of America annual conference—we’re shining a spotlight on why Madison, Wisconsin, and the surrounding Dane County communities are such exceptional destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, family getaways, and nature lovers alike.

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, we're in Newberry Springs, California, to celebrate the centennial anniversary of Route 66 and the community’s lively “Birthday Bash.” Today’s guest is local legend Ryan Bodine, a fourth-generation Newberry Springs native and rising country western singer-songwriter. Ryan shares stories about his deep family roots in the high desert, how his upbringing and the tight-knit local community inspired his music—including his debut album, "Ghost Town Road"—and the unlikely journey from introverted guitarist to Nashville recording artist. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about heritage, the power of music, and the connections that tie us to the places—and people—that shape our stories.

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In this episode, we're chatting with Andy Chapman, President and CEO of Travel North Tahoe, Nevada. As part of our special series with the Reno Tahoe Territory, Andy shares his deep local roots and lifelong love for the Lake Tahoe region. We discuss the unique challenges and rewards of managing a world-renowned outdoor destination that spans two states, five counties, and multiple jurisdictions. From fostering stewardship and conservation to ad...

Newberry Springs Stories: Clyde and Cue’s Forever Home - Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we’re wrapping up our Newberry Springs journey with a visit to the stunning RJB Ranch. chats with Jean Bredelis, longtime ranch owner and horse lover, and Diane Yoder Bubier, equestrian, close friend, and author of Clyde’s Forever Home and Cue’s Forever Home.

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast. In this special episode, Howard Fox sits down with John Burrill, a new full-time resident whose family has a long-time history in the Newberry Springs area, nestled in the heart of the Mojave Desert. Surrounded by stunning desert views under a rustic canopy, Howard and John Burrill discuss the rich family history that connects him to this land, dating back to 1915, and the legacy of Camp Cady—a site that has evolved from a Civil War-era fort and c...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast. We're back at the Newberry Springs Senior / Family Center—home to the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, and chatting with Ronnie Shaw, Director, and Karla Claus, Vice President, of the Chamber. They share the vibrant history, community pride, and behind-the-scenes stories that make Newberry Springs a must-visit destination along Route 66. Whether you’re a road trip enthusiast, a festival lover, or just curious about hidden gems i...

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, we're recording from the heart of the community at the Newberry Springs Senior/Family Center and the beloved Drifting Sands Cafe. We're chatting with local volunteer, Kim Gregory. Kim shares her journey from Menifee to Newberry Springs, her involvement with the community center, and what makes this desert town such a warm and welcoming destination.

On this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're continuing our series with Newberry Springs, California, a unique community nestled along the historic Route 66. We're speaking with locals and community leaders like Ton Forbes, an energetic force behind the Route 66 Centennial planning committee. Ton shares her journey from Orange County to becoming an integral part of Newberry Springs, describing what drew her to this vibrant, nature-filled desert town and how she became involved...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this special episode, we're visiting the iconic Barn in Newberry Springs, California, for a heartfelt conversation with Renee Kaminski, owner of The Barn and president of the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce. Known for her infectious energy and deep-rooted love for her community, Renee shares her personal journey from Brooklyn to California, how she fell in love with the Mojave Desert lifestyle, and why she’s committed to keeping the ...

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series. We're continuing on our journey through the Newberry Springs area of California—specifically, right into the heart of a thriving pistachio grove. Our guest is Dr. Keller Horton, a certified permaculture designer and passionate advocate for sustainable land management. Keller is also a Director for the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce. Keller shares his journey: from purchasing his first 40 acres through a serendipitous maga...

Route 66 Centennial: Newberry Springs Bagdad Cafe - Magic, Memories, and Community. In this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! We're back at the iconic Bagdad Café in Newberry Springs, California, right off the historic Route 66—also known as the Mother Road—celebrating its 100th anniversary. We're joined by Karla Claus (aka "Mrs. Princess Route 66"), Jackie McKay, a new Mojave National Preserve resident, and Mark Bradley, one of the driving forces behind the cafe.

Visit Lake Tahoe: Four-Season Playground, Outdoor Adventures, Events, and Sustainability Initiatives. Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, where we dive into the people, places, and organizations committed to making the outdoors accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable. In this episode, we're joined by Ryn Muat, Communications and PR Manager for Visit Lake Tahoe. Together, we unpack what makes Lake Tahoe a truly unique, bi-state destination nestled between California and ...

Route 66 Centennial: Bagdad Café Interview with Mark Bradley. Remembering ‘desert icon’ Andrea Pruett. In this heartfelt episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're back in Newberry Springs, California, for a very special conversation inside the iconic Bagdad Café. Joined by Mark Bradley, a long-time desert resident and someone deeply connected to the cafe, Howard and Mark explore the magic and allure that draws so many—especially travelers from France—to this legendary Route 66 stop. Ma...

Route 66 Centennial: Bagdad Cafe Interview with John Wease. Discovering Newberry Springs - Community,  Jam-Making, Festivals, and Desert Life. Welcome back to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series. In this episode, recorded from the Historic Bagdad Café in Newberry Springs, California, a gem nestled right along the iconic Route 66, we're joined by longtime resident and community leader John Wease, who shares his deep-rooted connection to this unique desert community.

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this special episode, host Howard Fox takes us on a journey to Newberry Springs, California, home of the legendary Bagdad Café and a true gem along historic Route 66. Recording from the heart of the Mother Road, Howard Fox sits down with Jim Conkle—affectionately known by many as the “Mayor of Route 66”—to dive into the unique history and spirit of this iconic highway.

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, we welcome back Cody Johnston, CEO and content creator for the Weird Canadian podcast, and now the Tourism Coordinator for the town of Lewisporte, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. In this conversation, Cody shares his journey into his new role, the rich outdoor experiences Lewisporte offers—from hiking trails and ATV routes to stunning birdwatching and beluga whale viewing—and the town’s efforts to promote itself as a premier t...

Lake County, Oregon Frontier Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we sit down with Shelley Batty, Director of the Lake County Chamber of Commerce in Oregon. Lake County is home to the world's largest dark sky sanctuary, featuring breathtaking open spaces, vibrant outdoor recreation, and a unique blend of history and small-town charm. Shelley Batty shares what makes Lake County such a hidden gem for adventure seekers and families. From its ancient archaeological si...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, we’re heading north to explore the beauty, history, and welcoming spirit of the Carson Valley communities (Genoa, Minden, Gardnerville, and Topaz Lake) in Nevada. We're joined by Keith Lewis, Executive Director of Visit Carson Valley, and Josh Rudelbach, Destination Marketing and Data Strategist, for an insider’s look at the region that sits just 45 miles south of Reno and 15 miles east of Lake Tahoe. Together, Keith an...

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, we chat with Scott Dahl, the Director of Visit Springfield Illinois, to explore everything that makes Springfield a legendary destination for adventurers and history buffs alike. With 37 years in tourism and a deep love for his “heart of Illinois” hometown, Scott shares insights into Springfield’s vibrant tourism scene, the city’s rich Abraham Lincoln heritage, and its central role along historic Route 66. From world...

Discover Festival Country Indiana: Outdoor Adventures, Community Events, and Hidden Gems - Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In this episode, we're chatting with Ken Koskey, Executive Director, and Mackenzie Steagall, Director of PR & Events, from Festival Country Indiana—a destination organization dedicated to showcasing the vibrant communities of Johnson County, just south of Indianapolis. Festival Country is more than just a collection of towns; it’s a hub for live music, farmers' markets, family-friendly festivals, and inventive outdoor experiences that attract ...

Discover Madison Wisconsin: Outdoor Adventures, Lakes, and Local Flavor with Destination Madison. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, we're chatting with Rob Gard, the Director of Communications and Public Affairs for Destination Madison. We dive into what makes Madison, Wisconsin, a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking to explore vibrant city life intertwined with nature. Rob shares the story behind Madison's unique location—an urban...

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 ...

This is the 10th and final episode of our collaboration with Visit El Paso to promote El Paso, Southwest Texas, New Mexico, and the State of Chihuahua MX as hosts of the OWAA 2024 annual conference. Edgar Cazares has been busy at the OWAA's annual conference. As the head of business development for !ah Chihuahua!, Edgar and his peers play crucial roles in promoting this beautiful Mexican destination. During day two of the conference, Edgar spent time with us to share his insights with attendees...

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...