A blend of history and ecological restoration, Camp Polk Meadows Preserve is a thriving haven for fish, wildlife, and native species thanks to years of dedicated restoration. In this episode, we learn about the unique challenges of balancing conservation with public access, history of the site, and how the Deschutes Land Trust and the local community work together to restore habitats.
More Info on Deschutes Land Trust: deschuteslandtrust.org
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
Whale Watching on the Oregon Coast invites gravel cyclists and nature lovers to discover the magic of whale migrations along one of the most scenic coastlines in the U.S. This episodes shares about how to connect with the whales, best seasons for sightings, and unusual whale mortality events as well as how we can help the whale population as cyclists.
This episode was produced from a live conversation between our guest Michael Milstein of NOAA and Dirty Freehub. We’ve shaped the interview into this format so it’s easier to listen and enjoy, while keeping the guest’s ideas and perspective at the center.
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
In this episode, we uncover one of Oregon's most surprising World War II stories: the only mainland U.S. bombing by enemy aircraft. In 1942, a Japanese pilot launched from a submarine off the coast of Brookings and dropped incendiary bombs on Mt. Emily, aiming to spark chaos and forest fires.
Decades later, the same pilot returned to Brookings not with bombs, but with a gift: his family’s 400-year-old samurai sword — a gesture of peace and reconciliation.
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
Meet David Toste, or "Toast" as we call him at Dirty Freehub. In today’s episode, Toast and I discuss about the inspirations and challenges cycling with multiple sclerosis a condition that has shaped his journey into gravel cycling. Instead of focusing on limitations, he celebrate what his body can do—when he can do it. In this episode, David shares personal stories of living with MS and reflect on how this "snowflake disease" manifests differently for everyone, offering a powerful reminder of resilience and adaptation.
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
All Access Episode #3
In this episode of The Connection, we sit down with Giselle Distad to hear her inspiring story of recovery and resilience after donating a kidney to her father. She shares how cycling became a vital part of her healing process, reconnecting her with nature, art, and the community in Central Oregon. Giselle opens up about the physical and emotional challenges of recovery, the long-term impacts of living with one kidney, and how she's learned to truly listen to her body. Her story is a powerful reminder that every ride, no matter the distance, is worth celebrating. At Dirty Freehub, we believe in inclusivity. We want ALL cyclists to feel invited to get out and ride, including ebikers, people with mobility challenges, adaptive athletes, families and people new to cycling. This podcast is meant to inspire you to get out and ride, by hearing stories that highlight some of our many All Access athletes.
This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
All Access Episode #2
In this inspiring episode of The Connection, Geoff Babb shares his journey of overcoming a life-changing stroke and the challenges of adapting to outdoor adventures with a disability. He discusses the creation of the AdvenChair and his groundbreaking expedition through the Grand Canyon, featured in the film Dream Boldly. Geoff highlights the emotional, physical, and mental hurdles he’s faced and how the outdoors continues to be a source of healing and strength. His story proves that adventure is possible for everyone, regardless of mobility challenges. At Dirty Freehub, we believe in inclusivity. We want ALL cyclists to feel invited to get out and ride, including ebikers, people with mobility challenges, adaptive athletes, families and people new to cycling. This podcast is meant to inspire you to get out and ride, by hearing stories that highlight some of our many All Access athletes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5nx1ic64sI
More on the AdvenChair
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5nx1ic64sI
This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
All Access Episode #1
In this episode of The Connection, we chat with professional photographer and cyclist, Don Miller, to discuss the joys and challenges of cycling with age. Don shares insights on the benefits of e-bikes, gravel cycling, and the importance of maintaining a social, enjoyable pace while riding. Tune in for a conversation about all access cycling, the thrill of exploring new terrain, and the ways bikes bring people together across all ability levels. At Dirty Freehub, we believe in inclusivity. We want ALL cyclists to feel invited to get out and ride, including ebikers, people with mobility challenges, adaptive athletes, families and people new to cycling. This podcast is meant to inspire you to get out and ride, by hearing stories that highlight some of our many All Access athletes.
https://www.donmiller.photography/
This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
In this episode of The Connection , we speak with Michael Orwick, an oil painter whose work is deeply inspired by the unique light and atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest. Michael shares his artistic journey, from studying illustration at the Pacific Northwest College of Art to transitioning into landscape painting. He describes his creative process, which focuses on capturing fleeting moments of illumination during sunrise and sunset, using layers and a mix of warm and cool colors. Michael also explains how his style leans towards impressionism, using optical mixing and broken brushwork to create energy and movement in his art.
He draws inspiration not only from the Pacific Northwest but from his global travels, including a year-long trip where he painted with children from orphanages around the world. We are thrilled to incorporate some of Michaels work in our upcoming ride guide and possible future collaborations with Michael and other artists alike.
Portfolio Site
Curated Storefront
www.orwickarts.comInstagram www.instagram.com/michael_orwick/
Facebook art page
https://www.facebook.com/MichaelOrwickArts
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
On this Episode of the Connection we tune in with Dr. Jim Rivers as he provides an insightful conversation about the marbled murrelet, a fascinating seabird with unique behaviors and a complex relationship with both ocean and forest ecosystems.
Dr. Rivers explains how this small seabird, the size of a robin, flies long distances inland to nest in old-growth forests along the Oregon coast, challenges facing the marbled murrelet population, and conservation efforts.
It’s a deep dive into the lives of a fascinating bird and an important conversation about how wildlife ecology connects to broader environmental concerns.
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
In this episode, we dive deep into the history of the Monterey Cypress with Nancy Appling Salucci of the Heritage Tree Committee and Beth Dehn of Oregon Travel Information Council. What makes this unique tree so special, and why did it stand out in a world of towering giants? We explore its origins, the man who planted it, how this impressive tree came to be on the rugged coastline of Oregon, and what it looks like today.
Oregon Heritage Tree Map: https://oregontic.com/oregon-heritage-trees/oregon-heritage-tree-map/
Nominate a Heritage Tree: https://oregontic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Heritage-Tree-Nomination-Form-03-22-fillable.pdf
Request a Tree and Marker brochure by emailing contact@tic.oregon.gov.
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
In this episode, we sit down with Tony Bixler, the President of Local Ocean Seafoods, a popular restaurant and fish market in Newport, Oregon. Tony shares the story of how Local Ocean was founded in 2005 by Laura Anderson and Al Pazar, focusing on sustainable, local seafood from the Oregon coast. He discusses the restaurant’s changes to improving overall workplace sustainability and emphasizing the importance of supporting locally-owned businesses and buying local seafood. Not only does this reduce some of the environmental impacts but also supports ethical fishing practices and boosts the local economy. Tony’s tips for finding local secrets in the food industry are also an important tool to keep it local. Learn about where the majority of Oregon seafood comes from!
Local Ocean Seafoods
Website https://www.localocean.net/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/localoceanseafoods/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/local-ocean-seafoods/
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@localoceanseafoods
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
When it comes to cycling in rural areas, there is a chance you may cross paths with dogs..most likely livestock dogs. How do you know if they are aggressive? What happens if you get bit? We join two different perspectives - a K-9 officer and a veterinarian with a background in canine behavior. Glen Scruggs, a retired Oregon police officer has worked in the field for 27 years, 7 of which were with a K-9 provides perspectives on the laws and legal matters surrounding canine bites. Dr. Chris Pachel who is a veterinarian working in the behavior space for the last 20 years shares insights into canine body language, territorial instincts, and how to prepare yourself as a cyclist passing by.
Dr. Chris Pachel Canine Information
- https://animalbehaviorclinic.net/
- https://www.instinctdogtraining.com/location/portland/
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
30 Minutes Over Oregon tells the true, powerful story of reconciliation after war. In WWII, a Japanese pilot bombed the continental U.S.—the only enemy to do so—and returns 20 years later to offer a heartfelt apology. This children's nonfiction book, illustrated by author and illustrator Melissa Iwai, blends history with beautiful watercolor artwork where she captures the moments of healing and forgiveness. She shares insights into the creation process from her research trip to the Oregon Coast to the challenges of bringing this significant story to life.
Stay connected with Melissa:
https://www.facebook.com/melissaiwaiart/
https://www.instagram.com/melissaiwai1/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWPIzfR-7pior9INqQQtESg
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
A carnivorous plan you say? The Cobra Lily, also known as Darlingtonia californica may look like a snake poised to strike but is actually a carnivorous plant that contains unique characteristics. Throughout the episode, our guest Haleigh Martin from Klamath-Siskiyou Wild (KS Wild) emphasizes the significance of personal connections to nature, advocacy in the environment, and identifying more about the Cobra Lily.
For more information on Cobra Lily and KS Wild:
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
Two stunning geological formations in Central Oregon offer a wealth of insights into the beauty and complexity of these balancing or “ghost” rocks. Shaped by volcanic activity and erosion over millions of years, our resident “rock doctor” Dr. Kim Ely explains how the cliffs were formed, highlighting four distinct geological formations. Dr. Ely also gives advice on how you can find and visit these natural wonders of Oregon.
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
Uncover the fascinating history behind this unique landmark with Ryan Parker, a beach ranger from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. In this episode, we discover how a massive Cascadia earthquake in 1700 led to the preservation of ancient trees, whose stumps now emerge from the sand at low tide. Through these geological processes, the ghost forest was born. Ryan shares about the best times to visit for a glimpse of these remarkable stumps covered in marine life, essential tips for safely exploring, and tide considerations surrounding Neskowin.
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
Creating illusion through color - from an artist's perspective. We delve into the world of local Pacific Northwest artist, Spencer Reynolds, whose stunning coastal paintings are a reflection of the raw beauty and power of the Oregon coast. We speak with Spencer about his unique artistic style and the inspiration he draws from the rugged landscapes of the Pacific Ocean.
Spencer describes the Oregon coast as one of the most beautiful coastlines in the United States, with its dramatic cliffs, powerful storms, and resilient flora that have shaped the landscape over time. His art captures the essence of this untamed beauty, blending elements of impressionism with subtle surrealism to create captivating and vibrant pieces.
Spencer Reynolds: https://www.artandsurf.com/
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
Dr. Win McLaughlin, a geology professor at Southwestern Oregon Community College, provides us with a deep understanding of the geology, history, and ecology of the Oregon coast. The Oregon coast is filled with unique geology which is characterized by its young age and the presence of sand dunes formed during the ice ages. She describes how the sand dunes are formed, ecosystems within and nearby, potential impacts of climate on the dunes, and the salty terrain to consider as a cyclist! She also talks about the Whisky Run mountain bike area.
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
We delve into the intricacies of weather patterns along the Oregon coast with Dr. Paul Loikith, an Associate Professor of Weather and Climate Science at Portland State University. Dr. Leuketh provides valuable insights into heavy storms called atmospheric rivers, emphasizing their significance in influencing extreme weather events like heavy precipitation and strong winds in the region. He highlights the importance of monitoring weather forecasts, particularly for cyclists planning trips to the coast, to avoid getting caught in hazardous storms.
Photo Credit: A heavy storm hits coastal Lane, Oregon. Credit: Bonnie Moreland
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate
Join us as we explore the intersection of gravel cycling and public land access, uncovering the untapped potential of landlocked areas for outdoor enthusiasts. Our GIS Specialist, Ben Purcell, who has been working with the Bureau of Land Management since 2017 happens to be a bit of a map enthusiast himself and delves into the potential benefits and consequences of opening up these landlocked parcels for recreational use.
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This podcast is produced by Dirty Freehub, a nonprofit organization that publishes hand-curated (and great!) gravel cycling Ride Guides. Our mission is to connect gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people, places, and lands with the hope that they will become involved as advocates, volunteers, or donors with organizations that protect and preserve recreation spaces.
Our Podcast Channel / The Connection
Our Ride Guides / Dirty Freehub
Our Ask / Donate