Tourism Episodes

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, Howard Fox takes us to the heart of Barstow, California, where he sits down in the cool comfort of the family-run Crave Kaffee Haus with Eugene Butticci, Executive Director of the Barstow Chamber of Commerce, and his daughter Yvonne Butticci, Owner of Crave Kaffee. In this episode, we dive into the welcoming vibe of Barstow’s local businesses, explore how the Main Street murals and Route 66 festivities bring history and community pride to life, and uncover the impact of major projects shaping the region’s future.

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, Howard sits down with Cathy Trebatoski, Marketing Communications Director for the Fox Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau in Wisconsin. Representing 19 vibrant communities—including Appleton, Menasha, and Neenah—the Fox Cities boasts something for everyone: from world-class sports facilities and scenic trails, to unique festivals, thriving arts and culture, and a dynamic food scene.

Touring Barstow's Main Street Murals on a Vintage Motorized Stagecoach ---- Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today's episode, we're continuing to experience Barstow, California, where history comes alive on Main Street. We're hearing again from Jane Laraman-Brockhurst about the historic murals that stretch on the original Route 66 from from 1st to 7th Street. We'll ride along in a vintage motorized 1850 stagecoach—modern horsepower included—courtesy of Rodney Rucker from El Dorado Stage Lines. We'll hear about the stories behind the murals, th...

120 Years of Wigwam Socks: Sock Science & Outdoor Adventure - Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we're chatting with Matt Brucker, Director of Global Sales for Wigwam Socks, a heritage sock company based in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, with over 120 years of history. Sponsored by Travel Wisconsin and Destination Madison, this episode explores Wigwam’s evolution from hand-knit hosiery to an innovative leader in performance socks for athletic, outdoor, work, and specialized n...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, We're continuing our exploration of Barstow, California, where the vibrant Centennial Mural provides the backdrop for a unique group interview. You’ll meet Juliet Tison, the founder of Barstow’s mural program, Ray Valles, the artist behind the Centennial mural, Kathy Fierro, president of Main Street Murals, and Jane Laraman-Brockhurst, our tour director. Together, they share the origin story of the mural movement.

Welcome to a special episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! Host Howard Fox brings you right onto the historic Route 66 in Barstow, California, where Main Street Murals have to create a walking gallery of historic murals along Route 66's Last Existing Main Street. Joining Howard is Mayor Tim Silva, a longtime Barstow resident and recently elected mayor, who shares his insights into the city’s attractions, its vibrant art scene, and the deep-rooted history woven into both the murals and the iconic Harvey House. Together, they discuss Barstow’s role in American history, the centennial celebrations of Route 66, the city’s vision for tourism and growth—including the major new Barstow International Gateway project—and what makes Barstow a unique stop for travelers and new residents alike. Get ready to discover the stories and future of this fascinating desert town.

Exploring Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula: Hidden Gems and Local Heritage with Brad Barnett Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, Howard Fox sits down with Brad Barnett, the executive director of Visit Keweenaw, the destination marketing organization for Michigan's picturesque Keweenaw Peninsula. Known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant Finnish-American heritage, and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, the Keweenaw Peninsula is a hidden ...

Welcome back to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, Our journey continues at the Goldwell Open Air Museum, located just a few miles west of Beatty, Nevada—a place filled with history, art, and the stunning scenery of the Amargosa Valley. Joining us are two passionate board members, Zoë Camper and Nichole Hanson, who share their experiences living in the desert, their connection to the unique outdoor art installations (including the famous "Ghosties"), and the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote this incredible site.

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series, where we explore unique destinations and meet the passionate individuals who bring them to life. In today’s episode, host Howard Fox visits the Goldwell Open Air Museum near the ghost town of Rhyolite in Southern Nevada—a remarkable outdoor art space just off the highway to Death Valley National Park. Joined by guests Steve Dudrow, a night sky photographer and podcaster, and Patrick Taylor, a Beatty resident, museum board member, and artist, we dive into the power of art, the healing spirit of the desert, and the vibrant creative community that thrives here.

Madison Boats: Water, Wellness, and Community Building - Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we have another spotlight on Madison, Wisconsin—host of the 2026 Outdoor Writers Association of America annual conference. Joining us is Tyler Leeper, owner of Madison Boats, whose lifelong passion for the water has transformed into a thriving community-building business on Madison’s beautiful lakes. From humble beginnings as a young entrepreneur to developing programs th...

Discover why Newberry Springs is much more than just a quick pit stop on your road trip through the high desert. In this episode, Chamber Officer/Ambassador and entrepreneur Karla Claus shares her insider secrets on the historic Route 66 landmarks, hidden petroglyphs, and local gems that will make this town a must-visit multi-day destination. Tune in to learn how to plan your perfect getaway and support the small businesses that are putting this vibrant community on the map.

Williams Route-66 Car Show - Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, host Howard Fox sits down with Judith Sell, the director of the American Legion Historic Route 66 Car Show in Williams, Arizona. As the town gears up to celebrate the centennial anniversary of Route 66 and the 11th annual car show, Judith shares insights into what makes this event truly special. Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast or simply love small-town Americana, this episode offers ...

Sam Teicher, co-founder and Chief Reef Officer of Coral Vita, a pioneering U.S.-based company on a mission to restore our planet’s degraded coral reefs, joins us on the Outdoor Adventure Series today. Coral Vita employs scalable, land-based coral farming and climate-resilient techniques to rebuild vital ecosystems that sustain marine life, coastal economies, and local cultures. Sam shares his journey from nature enthusiast to global leader in coral restoration, and the science and technology behind modern coral farming.

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 another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Join Howard Fox as he takes us on a unique adventure through Yermo, California, just off the famous Route 66 (aka The National Trails Hwy). Today, we're stepping inside Thrift-N-More—a beloved local thrift store brimming with history, vintage finds, and surprises around every corner. Our guest, Ron C. Bredelis, shares the intriguing journey that led him and his wife, Jean, from the bustling city life in Riverside to the peaceful open spaces of Newberry Springs. We’ll learn about the unexpected start of their thrift business, the art of thrifting, and how their store has become a community staple over the past 35 years.

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In this episode, we're back in Newberry Springs, California, to explore a unique cultural oasis just off the historic Route 66—the Bataar Camp. Joined by Umba Go, the founder of this Mongolian Yurt Camp, listeners will discover how Umba is sharing the authentic experience of Mongolian nomadic culture in the California desert. You'll hear about the inspiration behind the camp’s name, the significance of yurts, and how the camp serves as bo...

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, Howard sits down in Newberry Springs with Steve Hamilton, a professional race car driver turned innovative entrepreneur, and founder of Ultimate Container Homes. After relocating from Chicago to California, Steve discovered a passion for building homes, businesses, and communities from repurposed shipping containers. Together, they discuss how container homes can reshape Newberry Springs, bringing sustainable living, business opport...

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, Howard sits down with Kristine Watson, the Queen Mother behind the National Route 66 Pageant, right from her home in Newberry Springs, California. Together, they explore the story behind this unique pageant that celebrates not only the rich history of Route 66 but also empowers women of all ages to become ambassadors for their communities and America’s Mother Road. From the pageant's origins and its special centennial sashes...

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 another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s show, we're immersed in the fascinating history of Newberry Springs with community leaders from the Newberry Springs Economic Development Association - Historical Committee, Paul Deel, and Brian Fisher. Together, they share the legacy of Margaret Orcutt and her unique adobe home—complete with handmade blocks, historical gun ports, and even remnants of her greenhouse where she famously grew orchids. Paul shares personal sto...

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we're joined by local community leader, Brian Fisher—affectionately known as Mr. Geocache—to explore the hidden stories and adventures of Newberry Springs, California. Tune in as Brian recounts his journey to this quiet desert community, describing its tranquil charm and the unique history that surrounds it. Discover how Brian, a retired Marine base worker turned passionate historian, is now at the forefront of efforts to preserve ...

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...