Outdoor Adventure Series

Welcome back to Howard Fox's Outdoor Adventure Series podcast. Today, we’re joined by Suzanne Downing, an accomplished outdoor media professional and editor of Outdoors Unlimited, the quarterly publication of the Outdoor Writers Association of America. Suzanne recently authored her first outdoor-focused book, 100 Things to Do in Missoula Before You Die, a comprehensive guide to the vibrant activities and hidden gems in and around Missoula, Montana. In this episode, Howard and Suzanne discuss ...

Welcome to Howard Fox's Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, Howard sits down with Cecil Cherry, an outdoor writer, avid hunter, fisherman, and photographer with deep roots in Eastern North Carolina. A retired special agent, Cecil shares how growing up on a farm fueled his passion for the outdoors and inspired his journey into writing about hunting, regional history, and wild game recipes. Cecil discusses the path from law enforcement to publishing stories in magazines ...

Healing Through Nature: Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series, the podcast that celebrates individuals, families, and organizations dedicated to exploring, stewarding, conserving, and enjoying the great outdoors. In this episode, we’re joined by Robert Hensley—a forest therapy guide, certified meditation leader, sound therapist, and founder of Nature Reconnect. Robert shares his inspiring journey from a high-pressure career in Hollywood to discovering the healing power of nature and mindful...

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In this episode, Howard sits down with Katie Tranel, Director of Digital Strategy and Public Relations for the Janesville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Fresh off their involvement with the Outdoor Writers Association of America’s annual conference in Madison, Katie shares why Janesville, Wisconsin, is the ultimate four-season destination—whether you’re planning a family vacation, couples getaway, or seeking your ...

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, we're joined by Todd Gerson—mental health therapist and creator of the Ninefold app—for a deep dive into how nature, self-reflective practice, and technology can work together to enhance our well-being. Todd shares the inspiration behind Ninefold, explains how it empowers users to actively reflect and build healthier practices outdoors, and gives us a guided tour of the app’s features. Whether you’re a therapist, c...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, we're chatting with Anna Murphy-Pociask, Marketing Coordinator for Discover Oshkosh, to spotlight why Oshkosh, Wisconsin, should be on your list for family vacations, couples getaways, outdoor adventures, and even conferences and conventions. Recorded in partnership with Travel Wisconsin and Destination Madison, this conversation explores Oshkosh’s vibrant outdoor recreation—from kayaking and fishing on Lake Winne...

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 commu...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, host Howard sits down with Tim White, Executive Director of Visit Wausau, to explore why the Greater Wausau Area is Wisconsin’s premier basecamp for outdoor adventure, vibrant culture, and unique events. From ancient geological wonders and world-class recreational trails to thriving culinary and arts scenes, Tim shares what makes Wausau the ideal base camp for visitors seeking four seasons of outdoor fun—plus the creature...

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. Cathy shares insider tips on outdoor ...

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 spe...

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, discuss...

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 m...

Exploring Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula: Hidden Gems & 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 ...

Exploring Desert Art Program Innovation at the Goldwell Open Air Museum with Zoë Camper and Nichole Hanson. 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,...

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 d...

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 progr...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, Howard sits down with Melissa Pierick, Director of Marketing and Community Relations for the Ice Age Trail Alliance. Melissa shares her personal journey of discovering the Ice Age National Scenic Trail—an incredible 1,200-mile adventure that winds through Wisconsin, right past the state capital of Madison. Melissa offers insight into the trail’s all-season appeal, the vibrant community of “thousand milers,” and the surprisin...

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, Howard welcomes Rand R. Timmerman, Esq., author of A Spiritual Passage, a captivating memoir chronicling the journey of two brothers in their seventies as they hike the Appalachian Trail. Together, they explore not only the physical and logistical challenges of tackling 2,200 miles through 14 states, but also the deeper, spiritual lessons discovered along the way. In this episode, Rand opens up about his past struggles with al...

Exploring Map2Moments: DeeJay Laughbon’s Journey to Stress-Free Travel Planning - Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, Howard sits down with DeeJay Laughbon, the founder of Map2Moments—a travel planning platform born from the belief that planning should be the easiest part of every trip. Join us as DeeJay shares her personal journey from Oregon’s lush green landscapes to Utah’s mountains, and how pandemic-era adventures inspired the creation of a tool to ...

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. Supported 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 f...

Blister Pop Adventures: The Ultimate Guide to America’s Epic Day Hikes - Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, Howard sits down with Philip Clark, founder of Blister Pop Adventures and host of the Off You Pop Podcast. Based in Reno, Nevada, Philip has dedicated himself to helping “ordinary people” tackle epic, challenging day hikes across America—and beyond. Through Blister Pop Adventures, Philip curates in-depth hiking guides to some of the most iconic and demandi...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series, the podcast that celebrates those who explore, steward, and enjoy the great outdoors. In this episode, host Howard Fox reconnects with returning guest Emanuel Rose—outdoor enthusiast, digital nomad, and award-winning author—for an in-depth conversation about life and work on the road. With Emanuel’s wealth of experience, they dive into the practical systems, gear, and mindset needed to thrive as a full-time digital nomad, from staying connec...

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. DISCUSSION ...

Ghost Town Road | Country Artist Ryan Bodine Talks Newberry Springs & Route 66. 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 dese...

Liberty Sculpture Park - Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, Howard Fox travels to Newberry Springs, California, to celebrate the Route 66 centennial and brings listeners an inspiring conversation right from the heart of the Mojave Desert. Join Howard Fox as he sits down with renowned sculptor Weiming Chen at the remarkable Liberty Sculpture Park in Yermo. Together, they explore the origins of this unique outdoor gallery, its powerful sculptures celebrating li...

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 a lively glimpse into o...

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! We're chatting with Belinda Coker—a seasoned hiker, writer, educator, and global house sitter who currently calls Scotland home. After taking early retirement and leaving the corporate world, Belinda embarked on a global journey to embrace adventure, build confidence, and inspire others through responsible travel. In this episode, Belinda shares how she curated a life of genuine freedom and stability, combining her love of hiking wit...

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 ...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, Howard Fox sits down with Emily Louina Cook—author, artist, and environmental educator—to celebrate the launch of her new illustrated children’s book, "Is That an Åga?" Emily shares her passion for environmental education, her unique journey from growing up on a conservation tree farm in Maine to fieldwork in the Mariana Islands, and the story behind the critically endangered Mariana Crow (Åga). Whether you’re an aspiring na...

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...

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. Together, they share tales of horse rescue, life on the land, and adventures on horseback through the breathtaking desert landscape. We’ll talk about the peace and serenity fou...

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 peacefu...

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...

Newberry Springs Development: Off-Grid Living and Container Home Innovation on Route 66 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...

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 ...

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 an...

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...

The Magic of Newberry Springs: The Senior & Family Center, and the Drifting Sands Cafe 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...

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 ...

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, we're chatting with Dr. Trish O'Kane, an environmental educator, action researcher, and author of the inspiring memoir, Birding to Change the World. Trish shares her remarkable journey—from investigative journalism and human rights work in Central America and Alabama, to finding a new path in environmental education after Hurricane Katrina, and discovering the healing power of birds and nature. You'll hear how Trish connects b...

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 the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In this episode, we're chatting with travel writer, outdoor enthusiast, and author Teresa Bergen. Teresa, a longtime sober traveler and advocate, shares her passion for exploring the world alcohol-free and discusses her newly published "Sober Travel Handbook: Navigating the World Alcohol-Free." From kayaking the Chicago River to rafting the Grand Canyon, Teresa inspires listeners with stories of her adventures and insightful tips for navi...

Welcome back to another segment of the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this special episode, host Howard Fox sets the scene in the stunning landscapes of Newberry Springs as the sun sets over the desert. We're joined by Community Leaders and officers on the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Keller Horton, a visionary advocate for sustainable and regenerative agriculture, and Karla Claus, business owner and tourism ambassador. Rather than a traditional interview, Howard takes on the rol...

Welcome back to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s conversation, we're chatting with travel writer Melissa Rodway, author of the memoir “The People You Meet: Luxury, Leeches, Love, and Lao Lao." Tune in as Melissa shares captivating stories from her adventurous four-month journey through Southeast Asia—delving into everything from rustic backpacking to unexpected stays in luxury hotels, to wild encounters involving leeches and vibrant local cultures. As a seasoned tra...

The Outdoor Adventure Series welcomes Sable Ryan, relocation and lifestyle strategist and founder of Your Elevated Experiences. Sable shares her inspiring story of embracing bold lifestyle transitions—how a pivotal career shift led her to leave behind life in the U.S. and move to Panama. With a mission to help Black women over 40 stop dreaming about freedom and start living it, she discusses her signature “bougie relocation blueprint,” her firsthand experience as an expat, and the importance ...

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...

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, host Howard Fox sits down with Dr. Matt Harmody, a retired ER physician, mountaineer, endurance athlete, and author of Ascending America. Together, they delve into Dr. Harmody’s extraordinary journey—from long-distance running and adventure racing to the deeply personal experience of becoming a living kidney donor. You'll hear how Dr. Harmody’s father's battle with kidney disease inspired him not only to pursue a career in med...