Episodes

Rollin' Down the River: History, Community, and Outdoor Wonders on the Missouri. On today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we chat with Larry N. Campbell, retired math professor and author of Rollin' Down the River: Discovering People and Places along the Mighty Missouri. After decades in the classroom, Larry embarked on a journey that would take him along the entire length of the Missouri River, tracing its path from its headwaters in Montana to its confluence with the Miss...

Outdoor Exploration and Photography With Mike Hillman, Natural Habitat Adventures. On today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we’re thrilled to introduce Mike Hillman, the Photo Expeditions Director for Natural Habitat Adventures—known to many as Nat Hab. Mike’s story is a true outdoor enthusiast’s dream: from running wild in the woods of Michigan as a kid to becoming a zoologist and eventually leading extraordinary wildlife expeditions across the globe. Mike shares his fascinating j...

Tacoma-Pierce County: Outdoor Adventure, Economic Growth, and Vibrant Community. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we chat with Andrea Reay, President and CEO of the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce, and Dean Burke, President and CEO of Visit Tacoma-Pierce County. Together, they share the inside story of how their organizations collaborate to fuel economic development, promote vibrant small businesses, draw world-class conventions ...

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...

Angel Island Tiburon Ferry Experience: History, Wildlife, and Sunset Cruises. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today’s episode, we set sail in the San Francisco Bay with Captain Maggie McDonogh, fourth-generation captain and owner of the Angel Island Tiburon Ferry Company. Captain Maggie shares her unique story of growing up on the water, running a beloved family business that connects generations of locals and visitors to the natural wonders of Angel Island. We’ll hear ...

Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce: Supporting Business, Community, and Outdoor Activities in Washington. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, host Howard Fox sits down with Dawn Bell, President, and Jessica Kipp, Vice President, of the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce in Ridgefield, Washington. Nestled in the beautiful Pacific Northwest just north of Vancouver, Ridgefield is a rapidly growing community that’s becoming a hub for business and outdoor recreation. Dawn and...

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...

Rio Linda Elverta Chamber: Promoting Small-Town Charm and Outdoor Fun. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today's episode, we chat with Tonia Silva, a Rio Linda/Elverta Chamber of Commerce board member. Tonia gives us an inside look at this charming, rural community just north of Sacramento, California. Filled with wide open spaces, horse ranches, family-owned businesses, and a remarkable small-town camaraderie. We’ll hear about how the Chamber supports main street staples and h...

Meet the Sequim Chamber: Promoting Outdoor Wonders, Businesses, and Community Spirit Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In this episode, we chat with Beth Pratt, the executive director of the Sequim Dungeness Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center. Nestled in the stunning upper left corner of Washington state, Sequim is a community that boasts an incredible mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and vibrant local culture. Beth takes us on a journey...

Creating Inclusive Spaces: Disability Advocacy, Outdoor Access, and Inclusion in Your Community Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today's episode, we sit down with Jenna Udenberg, an inspiring disability advocate, accessibility educator, and author of the book Within My Spokes. Growing up in the rugged beauty of northern Minnesota, Jenna’s journey has been shaped by her early diagnosis of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and a lifetime of navigating—and working to improve—ac...

Discover Kamiah, ID: Tourism, Community Events, and Outdoor Fun Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today’s episode, we sit down with Janet Brennan, the Kamiah Chamber of Commerce vice president in northern Idaho. Janet shares the rich history of Kamiah—a community that reinvented itself from its logging roots to a vibrant outdoor recreation and tourism destination. DISCUSSION 1. Kamiah, Idaho: Location and Overview 2. History and Evolution of Kamiah 3. The Kamiah Chamber of Commerce...

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...

Discover Birch Bay, Washington: Seasonal Fun and Small-Town Charm. Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we're chatting with Sacha Sanguinetti, the Event Coordinator for the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center. Nestled just seven miles south of the Canadian border in Washington’s beautiful Pacific Northwest, Birch Bay is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking sunsets, accessible shoreline, and vibrant small-town community. You’ll also h...

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...

Mindfulness and Healing in Nature: Hiking, Meditation, and Outdoor Transformation. In this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're chatting with Mike Martin, a certified mindful hiking guide, wilderness first responder, and host of the Project Mindfully Outdoors podcast. Mike opens up about his journey—growing up in Michigan, facing life’s darkest moments, discovering the healing power of nature and mindfulness, blending outdoor adventure with meditation, and creating transformative...

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...

Explore Calimesa, CA: Community, Business Growth, and Natural Beauty On this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're thrilled to have Melissa Monroe with us. Melissa is the President of the Calimesa Chamber of Commerce and a financial advisor for Modern Woodmen of America. Calimesa, CA, is located in the picturesque Inland Empire. Melissa shares her experiences growing up in this rapidly evolving community, highlighting the unique blend of small businesses, stunning natural landscap...

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...

Thriving with Cancer: Living with Purpose and Intention at a Slower Pace In today's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're joined by Thom Barrett, an adventurer, author, and storyteller navigating life with stage four cancer. Thom shares his journey from a successful career as an IT consultant to the transformative realization of pursuing outdoor adventures. Thom discusses how his diagnosis has shifted his perspective toward slower, more intentional outdoor experiences, allowing hi...

Discover Chino Valley: Families, Businesses, and Outdoor Spaces. Today, on the Outdoor Adventure Series, our guest is Zeb Welborn, the president and CEO of the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce in Chino Hills, CA. Zeb shares how communities in the Chino Valley are thriving family-friendly business hubs and gateways to incredible outdoor spaces. Chino Valley is a melting pot of culture and adventure, from sprawling parks and scenic trails to bustling farmers' markets and diverse dining options...

From Oil Fields to Coffee Roasting: Crafting a Legacy with Backbone Coffee Company. On this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're diving into the world of the outdoors, coffee, and entrepreneurship with our guest, Cameron Mauk, the Founder of Backbone Coffee Company. Cameron's story is a unique blend of adventure and enterprise, from his early days in the trades down in Louisiana to making his mark in Oklahoma. We also discuss the importance of family, especially in balancing his ...

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...