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Kelly Dix was raised in Lyndonville, NY, where time spent outside sparked her curiosity and awe of the natural world. She holds degrees in Mathematics, Environmental Sciences & Engineering, and Toxicology. Throughout her career in biomedical research she spent her spare time backpacking and exploring the mountain west with her husband. Kelly found her true passion in retirement, sharing her enthusiasm for science and nature with others. She’s been a substitute teacher and a volunteer with several environmental education non-profit organizations. After moving to Montana with her husband in 2016 Kelly found her home at MNHC and she has been involved with the VNS, Montana Master Naturalist, WOW, and other programs ever since. When she’s not volunteering at MNHC, you can find her at the Missoula Butterfly House and Insectarium, hiking almost anywhere, or taking way too many photos of just about anything in the natural world.
Show notes:
00:03:39 - Childhood Outdoor Play
00:07:18 - Teamwork and Listening
00:10:52 - Listening to Nature's Hidden Voices
00:14:58 - From Math to Toxicology
00:17:09 - Pharmacokinetics and Environmental Toxicology
00:19:48 - Toxicology's Multidisciplinary Nature
00:22:16 - Importance of Public Lands
00:26:55 - Kelly Dix, Montana Naturalist
00:31:02 - Visiting Naturalist in Schools
00:34:26 - Hands-On Nature Education
00:37:26 - Montana Master Naturalist Program
00:42:23 - Montana Master Naturalists
00:44:32 - Montana Natural History Center Info
00:49:21 - Visiting Naturalist in Schools
Please help us keep the podcast version of the show advertisement free while also supporting our educational outreach efforts by donating $3/month on Patreon. To donate, visit Patreon.com/TrailLessTraveled
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Lynx Vilden is a renowned author, wilderness guide, and ancestral skills teacher known for her immersive “Stone Age Projects,” where participants live off the land using only primitive tools and techniques. With over three decades of experience in earth-based living, Lynx has dedicated her life to reconnecting people with the rhythms of the natural world through traditional lifeways. Her teachings blend deep ecological awareness with hands-on instruction in skills such as hide tanning, fire-making, and shelter-building, inspiring a global movement toward rewilding and self-sufficiency. Her work has been featured in documentaries, books, and international media, and she continues to guide others on the path of ancestral remembrance and ecological belonging. In her stunning memoir Lynx Vilden chronicles her journey to reconnect with the earth, offering a model for how we all can nurture the wild around and inside ourselves.
Show notes:
00:03:33 - Connection to Nature and Ancestral Skills
00:07:06 - Finding My Path in Community
00:10:12 - Importance of Community in Wilderness Skills
00:13:54 - Exploring Stones by the River
00:15:32 - Exploring Natural Elements for Survival
00:17:19 - Exploring Earth, Water, and Fire
00:20:12 - Indigenous Survival Skills and Practices
00:24:33 - Learning Wilderness Skills with Lynx
00:27:07 - Exploring Nature's Grandeur
00:29:17 - Journeying Through the Wilderness
00:33:48 - Understanding Our Safety Plan
00:36:52 - Journey of Writing and Discovery
00:39:34 - Exploring Non-Conventional Publishing Paths
00:45:46 - Connecting with Nature and Moon Phases
Please help us keep the podcast version of the show advertisement free while also supporting our educational outreach efforts by donating $3/month on Patreon. To donate, visit Patreon.com/TrailLessTraveled
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Dana Anderson, better known as Wild Mountain Man Dan, is a celebrated bushcraft instructor based in Matlock, Washington. Now 68, he has spent over six decades honing wilderness skills and teaching them to others. Dana has lived completely off the grid in a hand‑built cabin by a creek for more than three decades, cultivating a rich life subsisting on foraging, hunting, fishing, and primitive craftsmanship.
A master of stone‑tool crafting, arrowhead chipping, primitive cooking, and stone‑age technologies, Dana has taught countless students in wilderness gatherings across the western U.S. He’s best known for leading shelter‑building and raft‑building challenges at the PNW Survival Games, emphasizing resourcefulness, survival principles, and hands‑on learning. With over 33 years off‑grid experience and ongoing instructor roles in events like PNW Survival Games, Dana shares not just skills but also deep respect for wild landscapes.
Ean Anderson, Dana’s son, has followed in his father’s footsteps in a rugged way. As a veteran bear hunter and certified survival skills instructor, Ean blends traditional wilderness mastery with modern safety and technique. He specializes in teaching advanced tracking, big-game fieldcraft, and hands‑on wilderness preparedness.
With a strong focus on black and brown bear hunting, Ean has earned a reputation for combining ethical hunting practices with deep survival know‑how. Drawing on his father's traditions and his own professional experience, Ean teaches both individual learners and groups how to thrive safely in bear‑inhabited wilderness—from crafting emergency shelters and gear improvisation to honing decision-making under pressure.
Show notes:
00:04:26 - Childhood Adventures and Life Lessons
00:08:03 - Growing Up in a Remote Town
00:10:08 - Lessons from Childhood Hardship
00:12:11 - Growing Up in Nature
00:14:45 - Childhood Adventures in the Woods
00:17:33 - Ancient Skills and Modern Gatherings
00:19:59 - Traditional Survival Skills Overview
00:24:05 - Traditional Hunting and Food Connection
00:26:06 - Honoring Animals Through Sustainable Hunting
00:28:09 - Respecting Nature Through Hunting
00:30:56 - The Significance of Names
00:33:41 - Finding Identity Through Names
00:36:01 - Passion for Bear Hunting
00:37:08 - Passion for Bear Hunting
00:39:00 - Connection Between Hunting and Conservation
00:41:48 - Understanding Nature's Clues
Please help us keep the podcast version of the show advertisement free while also supporting our educational outreach efforts by donating $3/month on Patreon. To donate, visit Patreon.com/TrailLessTraveled
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Together, Tim, Heather, and Lindsey strengthen Salmon State’s mission: defending rivers and salmon through policy advocacy, community engagement, and protection of critical watersheds across Alaska and its transboundary rivers.
As Executive Director based in Juneau, Alaska, Tim Bristol is a leading voice in salmon conservation policy. He has testified before the U.S. Senate Indian Affairs Committee, highlighting the urgent need to curb bycatch from large trawl fleets off Alaska and demanding stronger tribal co-management for rivers like the Arctic, Yukon, and Kuskokwim—calling salmon population crashes “a human rights crisis and an ecological disaster”. Under his leadership, SalmonState champions habitat protection and bycatch reduction, bringing Indigenous stewardship into fisheries management at both local and federal levels.
In her role as Salmon Beyond Borders Campaign Advisor, Heather Hardcastle leads cross-jurisdictional efforts to protect salmon ecosystems that transcend political boundaries. Based in Juneau, she coordinates with stakeholders across Alaska and Canada to ensure the health of transboundary rivers—such as the Taku—by advocating science-based policy and Indigenous-led watershed governance. Her work helps strengthen salmon runs that cross national borders, safeguarding migratory pathways essential to species survival.
A second-generation gillnet captain from Bristol Bay, Lindsey Bloom brings first-hand fishing experience and a background in sustainable development (M.A.) to her campaign strategy role. After more than a decade fishing, she now organizes Alaskans—particularly young fishermen—and collaborates with tribal, nonprofit, and business communities to protect salmon habitat and influence fisheries policy around rivers and coastal waters. She helped lead the grassroots movement opposing the Pebble mine in Bristol Bay, even addressing its importance during President Obama’s 2015 visit.
Show notes:
00:05:16 - Connecting with Alaska's Natural Heritage
00:08:17 - Protecting Transboundary Rivers Together
00:11:36 - Impact of Mining on Wild Salmon
00:17:30 - Advocating for Wildlife and Wild Places
00:20:29 - Understanding Salmon Species
00:21:50 - Salmon's Unique Life Cycles
00:25:23 - Connection Between Fishing and Family
00:28:20 - Protecting Alaska's Salmon Habitat
00:31:24 - Protecting Alaska's Salmon Ecosystem
00:34:19 - Tim Bristol's Conservation Journey
00:36:45 - Protecting Southeast Alaska's Forests
00:39:09 - Salmon State: Protecting Alaska's Ecosystem
00:42:06 - Transboundary Rivers and Mining Issues
00:44:39 - Lessons from Salmon Resilience
Please help us keep the podcast version of the show advertisement free while also supporting our educational outreach efforts by donating $3/month on Patreon. To donate, visit Patreon.com/TrailLessTraveled
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Clint Fries is a deeply experienced river guide and expedition leader with over two decades of professional guiding across some of the planet’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes. Known for his calm presence, intuitive leadership, and profound respect for wild places, Clint has become a trusted figure in the world of wilderness travel.
For the past several years, Clint has guided multi-day rafting expeditions in Alaska with MT Sobek, one of the country’s most respected adventure travel companies. His work has taken him deep into the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, where he leads trips down the pristine Hulahula River—a rarely traveled corridor that winds from the Brooks Range through the tundra to the Beaufort Sea. Guiding in the Arctic demands more than just technical skill; it requires logistical precision, environmental sensitivity, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing conditions. Clint brings all three, along with a quiet confidence that reassures both first-time adventurers and seasoned travelers.
Clients often remark on Clint’s ability to make even the most rugged landscapes feel like home. Whether navigating braided channels, managing wildlife encounters, or helping guests find comfort and joy in the wild, he leads with humility and insight. His years of experience have made him fluent in the rhythm of rivers—from the heat of Latin America to the icy silence of Alaska’s far north.
Clint’s path to guiding was shaped by a lifelong curiosity about the natural world. He studied at Earlham College, an institution known for its commitment to social justice and experiential learning, and participated in immersive field programs that laid the foundation for his career. He now lives in Capitola, California, but spends much of the year off-grid—on rivers, in mountains, and in the company of wild water.
More than just a guide, Clint is a teacher, a storyteller, and a quiet advocate for the wild. He believes that the best journeys aren’t about conquering nature—they’re about listening to it. Through each expedition, he invites guests to slow down, pay attention, and discover a deeper connection to the land and to themselves.
Show notes:
00:02:36 - Journey from Wilderness to Exploration
00:06:52 - Value of Excellence in Guiding
00:09:30 - Expedition Overview: Hula Hula Adventure
00:11:19 - Exploring the Arctic Tundra
00:13:50 - Muskox and Arctic River Adventures
00:17:23 - Exploring Tundra and Wildlife
00:21:23 - Dealing with Mosquito Pressure
00:22:42 - Experience with Caribou in the Arctic
00:25:31 - Wilderness Adventure and Bear Encounters
00:28:11 - Epic Hiking and River Adventures
00:30:31 - Exploring the Stunning Alaskan Wilderness
00:33:43 - Challenges of Guiding on Alsec River
00:36:05 - Embracing Nature as Healing Medicine
00:38:25 - Fostering Connection with Nature
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Bridget Crocker is a trailblazer in women's empowerment within the outdoor industry. A leading whitewater rafting guide in far-flung regions of Zambia, Ethiopia, the Philippines, Peru, Chile, Costa Rica, India, and the Western United States. During this interview, she discusses her new memoir The Rivers Daughter. Support your local bookstore and pickup a copy today!
Bridget is also a contributing author to Lonely Planet guidebooks and Travel Anthology and the Best Women's Travel Writing series from Travelers' Tales. Her work has been featured in magazines including Westways, Men's Journal, National Geographic Adventure, Trail Runner, Paddler, Outside, Vela, and Patagonia's blog, The Cleanest Line, among others. She lives in Malibu, California.
Show notes:
00:04:36 - Connecting with Nature and Overcoming Challenges
00:09:04 - Overcoming Insecurity in Guide School
00:10:27 - Facing Fear on the Snake River
00:12:29 - Empowerment and Challenges in River Guiding
00:15:46 - Shifting Power Dynamics in Society
00:20:03 - Empowering Women Beyond Sexual Power
00:22:54 - Navigating Power Dynamics as Women
00:24:44 - Connecting Through Nyami Nyami and Zambezi
00:28:21 - Lessons on Allyship and Empowerment
00:30:35 - Understanding Grief Behind Rage
00:32:55 - Overcoming Obstacles in Relationships
00:36:53 - Embracing Change and Courage
00:40:29 - Embracing Change and New Experiences
#travel #adventure #adventuretravel #podcast #travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #whitewater #whitewaterrafting #whitewaterkayaking #riverguide #theriversdaughter #rivers #womenwholead #zambezi #kernriver #snakeriver #bridgetcrocker #traillesstraveled #jacksonhole
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Kevin McDermott—a.k.a. “Thirsty" has been guiding since he was 16 years old. He has 30+ years of experience guiding in Alaska, has climbed Denali and endears himself to travelers with his expertise, calm demeanor, and sense of humor. When he isn't guiding in the Arctic, you might find him on the Alsek, Tatshenshini, Middlefork Salmon or the Grand Canyon. He lives in Arizona with his wife, Darla, and enjoys working on Land Cruisers in his spare time.
Show notes:
00:03:33 - Discovering a Passion for the Outdoors
00:06:15 - Early Guiding Experiences in Alaska
00:09:32 - Discovering Alaska Through Rafting
00:12:15 - Exploring the Arctic Tundra
00:15:19 - Exploring the Arctic Landscape
00:18:31 - Understanding Winter River Dynamics
00:20:26 - Spring River Conditions and Challenges
00:22:37 - Wildlife and Mosquitoes in the Arctic
00:26:28 - Exploring Glaciers and Wildlife
00:29:33 - Climbing Denali: Challenges and Triumphs
00:33:41 - Reading Glacial Rivers in Alaska
00:38:37 - Understanding Nature Beyond Identification
Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
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#arcticnationalwildliferefuge #hulahulariver #alaska #travel #adventure #storytelling #alsek #tatshenshini #whitewaterrafting #rafting #adventurepodcast #travelpodcast #arcticrefuge #grandcanyon
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Step into the rugged beauty of Montana's backcountry as wilderness legend Smoke Elser shares his remarkable 60+ year journey through the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Since 1957, Elser has been a guardian of these pristine lands, witnessing their transformation from horse-only trails to a diverse recreational haven. Learn about Bob Marshall himself - an extraordinary conservationist who, despite his aversion to horses, hiked extensively through Montana's wilderness, laying the groundwork for modern conservation efforts. His legacy lives on through the Wilderness Society and the landmark Wilderness Act of 1964.
Arnold “Smoke” Elser is a legendary wilderness outfitter, educator, and conservationist whose life’s work is deeply rooted in Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness. Since his first trip into the Bob in 1956, Elser has spent nearly seven decades guiding thousands of people—many of them first-time riders—through its rugged terrain, sharing not only the landscape but also his deep reverence for wild places.
After graduating from the University of Montana in 1968 with a degree in range management and secondary education, Elser and his wife Thelma founded Bob Marshall Wilderness Outfitters. They built their business on a philosophy of “interpreting the land,” helping guests connect with the wilderness through storytelling, horsemanship, and a commitment to conservation. Elser has led over 700 trips into the Bob Marshall Wilderness and has spent more than 8,030 nights under its stars.
Elser’s influence extends beyond guiding. He has taught horse and mule packing at the University of Montana since 1964, training over 30,000 students, including military personnel and federal land managers.
Elser’s stories and experiences are captured in the memoir Hush of the Land: A Lifetime in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, co-authored with Eva-Maria Maggi. The book offers a vivid account of his adventures and his enduring commitment to protecting Montana’s wildlands. Even in his 90s, Smoke Elser remains an active voice in wilderness education and conservation, embodying a lifetime dedicated to the stewardship of the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Show notes:
00:04:06 - Founding the Wilderness Society
00:07:13 - Establishing Wilderness Areas
00:09:55 - Creation of the Bob Marshall Wilderness
00:12:56 - Development of Wilderness Access
00:14:29 - Evolution of Bob Marshall Wilderness Use
00:16:52 - Growth of Hiking and Floating Activities
00:18:58 - Alumni Gathering in the Hills
00:21:06 - Starting an Outfitting Business
00:23:27 - First Trip to Sentinel Lookout
00:25:53 - History of the Bob Marshall Wilderness
00:29:05 - Establishing a Ranger Station
00:33:28 - Exploring Hawn Creek and Ranger Stations
00:35:41 - History of the Ranger's Cabin
00:37:45 - History of Bob Marshall Wilderness
00:40:28 - Improving Wilderness Camping Practices
00:42:52 - Backpacking Fire Pan Tips
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The Missoula Housing Authority offers housing assistance to veterans through programs like HUD-VASH, which combines rental assistance with VA case management and supportive services. MHA's Valor House provides 17 one-bedroom units for permanent housing for homeless veterans, featuring communal amenities such as a kitchen, meeting spaces, and laundry facilities. In 2023, MHA received funding to expand permanent housing options for homeless veterans and their families.
Established in 1990, Veterans Inc. is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Massachusetts, serving veterans and their families across New England, Montana, and North Dakota. It provides holistic supportive services, including housing, employment and training, case management, food security, behavioral healthcare, suicide prevention, and programs for women veterans. Veterans Inc. has assisted over 100,000 veterans, achieving an 85% success rate in transitioning them out of homelessness.
Valor House is a 72-bed transitional housing facility operated by First Step House, offering housing and supportive services to veterans experiencing homelessness. The program provides structured support to help veterans transition to permanent housing.
Show notes:
00:04:32 - Journey from Alcoholism to Recovery
00:07:55 - Importance of Seeking Help
00:11:45 - Supporting Veterans and Community Programs
00:13:34 - Understanding Homelessness Among Veterans
00:17:22 - Finding Support and Rebuilding Life
00:25:15 - Opening Your Eyes to Change
00:26:42 - Supporting Veterans in Need
00:29:01 - Embracing Support and Community
00:30:36 - Journey to Self-Sufficiency
00:33:47 - Life at Valor House
00:35:04 - Update on Eye Surgery and Community Care
00:36:30 - Conservation Tips for Baby Birds
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Step into the extraordinary world of Skip Horner, a veteran adventure guide whose 50-year career spans over 100 countries and countless epic expeditions. Skip Horner is a legendary American adventure guide, mountaineer, and expedition leader with a career spanning over five decades. He is renowned for being the first guide to lead clients to the summits of all Seven Summits—the highest peaks on each continent—including Mount Everest, where he became the 420th person to reach the top. His extensive guiding experience encompasses more than 100 countries, with expeditions in 62 of them, ranging from mountain treks to river descents and wildlife safaris.
Horner's adventurous spirit has led him to accomplish numerous firsts in the world of exploration. He has led first descents of 12 major rivers, including the Yangtze, Zambezi, and Indus, and has navigated the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon 38 times. His mountaineering feats include 33 ascents of Kilimanjaro, eight of Mount Vinson in Antarctica, and six of Gunnbjørnsfjeld in the Arctic. Additionally, he has skied to the North Pole and participated in 11 expeditions to Antarctica.
Alongside his wife Elizabeth, Horner operates Skip Horner Worldwide, Inc., based in Victor, Montana. Together, they design and lead bespoke expeditions to some of the world's most remote and culturally rich destinations, including camel treks across the Sahara, Himalayan climbs, and Amazon rainforest explorations . Horner is a certified alpine guide by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) and a Fellow Emeritus of the Explorers Club.
Show notes:
00:04:48 - Reflecting on 40 Years of Adventures
00:08:07 - Memorable Adventures in Burkina Faso
00:10:48 - Determining the Highest Arctic Peak
00:14:19 - Life's Journey Through Travel Chapters
00:16:39 - First Descent on the Çoru River
00:19:25 - Preparing for the River Challenge
00:21:57 - Preparing for Class Five Rapids
00:23:36 - First Descent of the Choroo River
00:25:35 - From Turkey to Antarctica Adventures
00:27:28 - First Ascent of Vinson
00:30:02 - Climbing Challenges at High Camp
00:32:27 - Facing Mistakes in Mountain Climbing
00:34:33 - Overcoming Failure on Mount Vinson
00:37:13 - Movement as a Key to Problem Solving
#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #whitewaterrafting #antartica #skiphorner #travelpodcast #travel #adventuretravel #missoula #missoulamontana #montana #storytelling #mountainclimbing #whitewater
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Dr. Jim Halfpenny is a renowned polar ecologist, expedition leader, and expert in cold-climate ecology with decades of experience studying the extreme environments of the Arctic and Antarctic. With a background in wildlife biology and ecology, Dr. Halfpenny has led and participated in numerous scientific expeditions to the polar regions, where he has conducted groundbreaking research on climate change, snow ecology, and the adaptation of wildlife to some of the planet’s harshest conditions.
Dr. Halfpenny's firsthand accounts paint a vivid picture of climate change's impact: shrinking glaciers, thawing permafrost releasing dangerous methane, and indigenous communities forced to relocate due to shifting wildlife patterns. His upcoming book "The Last Cold" documents these profound changes, while his research using ice cores reveals how current CO2 levels far exceed anything seen in the past 800,000 years.
Despite passing certain environmental tipping points, Dr. Halfpenny emphasizes hope through action and the importance of individual contributions to combat climate change. From infrastructure challenges in Alaska to the transformation of the Northwest Passage into a potential trade route, this episode offers crucial insights into our warming world.
Don't miss this essential conversation about one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Listen now to understand why the Arctic's story is everyone's story.
Show notes:
00:02:48 - Climate Change Observations in Greenland
00:06:05 - Impact of Climate Change on Icebergs
00:09:27 - Future of Coastal Towns and Trade Routes
00:11:14 - Understanding Historical Climate Change
00:14:13 - Carbon Dioxide and Climate Change
00:17:05 - Tipping Points and Climate Action
00:19:22 - Impact of Permafrost Thawing
00:22:43 - Challenges of Northern Train Travel
00:24:09 - Impact of Climate Change on Northern Communities
00:26:50 - Impact of Climate Change on Species
00:30:15 - Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife
00:34:44 - Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife
00:38:06 - Impact of Climate Change on Bears
00:40:12 - Grizzly Bears and Climate Change
00:41:32 - Advice for Mitigating Climate Change
#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #adventuretravel #climatechange #climateaction #climatecrisis #yellowstonenationalpark #polarbears #polar
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Join us as we venture into the wilds of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi with three seasoned bush guides—Marshal, Luckson, and Malan. From the rugged seats of a Toyota Land Cruiser, we chat with Marshal and Malan about wildlife conservation, poaching, ecology, and the intricate behaviors of Africa’s iconic animals. Then, we sit down with Luckson, a top-tier guide with the highest level of training, to uncover the rigorous education, testing, and fieldwork required to lead walking safaris—a tradition that was born right here in Zambia. Tune in for an immersive journey into the heart of the African bush.
Show notes:
00:06:07 - Protecting Zambia's National Parks from Mining
00:09:03 - Revisiting the Mating Lions in Lower Zambezi
00:12:08 - Elephant Encounter in Lower Zambezi
00:17:12 - Let's Move Together as One Zambia
00:20:19 - Becoming a Bush Guide in Zambia
00:22:47 - Intensive Training and Expertise of Safari Guides
00:25:31 - The Importance of Respecting Animal Boundaries
00:28:59 - From Whitewater to Walking: A Guide's Journey
00:30:57 - Family Doubts, Overcoming Fears, and Protecting the Zambezi
00:32:57 - The Importance of Protecting River Ecosystems
00:34:53 - Night Drive with Guide Milan in Zambia
00:39:58 - Transforming Poachers into Conservationists
00:44:07 - Night Drive with Cooperative Clients
#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #adventuretravel #zambia #lowerzambezi #lowerzambezinationalpark #zambeziriver #guidelife #safari #safariguide #lowerzambeziriver #zambeziriver
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As a child growing up on a farm in Zimbabwe, Mikey Hensman was surrounded by rescued exotic animals like elephants, impalas, and warthogs. This unique upbringing sparked his deep passion for wildlife that eventually led him to a career in anti-poaching and conservation. Hensman is the co-founder of Resolve Wildlife, an African-led strategic advisory and training group dedicated to conserving Africa's wild landscapes. Resolve Wildlife's team includes experts in protected area management, ecology, law enforcement, and community-based resource management. One of their key conservation partners, Conservation Lower Zambezi (CLZ), is a non-profit organization working to protect Zambia’s Lower Zambezi region. CLZ collaborates with Zambia’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) to conduct foot and aerial patrols, as well as operate specialized enforcement units, including the highly effective Dog Unit.
Introduced in 2016 with support from USAID, the Dog Unit plays a vital role in combating poaching and wildlife trafficking. Trained to detect scents of ammunition, bushmeat, ivory, pangolin, and firearms, these skilled sniffer dogs and their local handlers conduct vehicle searches at checkpoints and assist with tracking operations. Their efforts have resulted in numerous arrests and significant recoveries of illegal wildlife products, including over 175 kilograms of bushmeat and multiple firearms. Looking ahead, the program aims to expand the dogs' detection capabilities to include rhino horn and Zambia’s rare Mukula wood, further strengthening anti-poaching efforts in the region.
Show Notes:
00:03:46 - From Polo to Elephant Training: A Family's Journey
00:07:09 - Elephant Conservation and Canine Anti-Poaching Programs
00:10:16 - Detection and Tracking: Canine Anti-Poaching Capabilities
00:12:23 - Challenges of Conservation Dog Training in Africa
00:18:42 - Patrolling the Periphery: Combating Poaching in Africa
00:21:14 - Encounters with Poachers in the Miombo Woodland
00:24:23 - Tracking Poachers Through Rugged Terrain
00:27:28 - Tracking Animals for Conservation
00:30:51 - Protecting Wildlife and Communities in Lower Zambezi
00:34:41 - Protecting the Zambezi River and Wildlife
00:36:18 - Promoting Environmental Education and Community Empowerment
#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #adventuretravel #zambia #resolvewildlife #lowerzambezi #conservationlowerzambezi #elephantconservation #dogtraining #antipoaching #k9training
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Dr. Jim Halfpenny is a renowned scientist, educator, and author specializing in carnivore ecology, tracking, and the natural history of cold climates. With a Ph.D. in biology, he has conducted extensive research on wildlife, particularly bears, wolves, and mountain lions, and has contributed significantly to the study of animal tracking and forensic wildlife investigations. As the president of A Naturalist’s World, he has led numerous workshops and expeditions, sharing his deep knowledge with students, researchers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Dr. Halfpenny has authored several influential books and field guides, helping to advance the understanding of animal behavior and ecosystems. His passion for conservation and education has left a lasting impact on wildlife science and outdoor learning.
Show notes:
00:03:00 - Growing Up on the River and Becoming an Outdoor Guide
00:06:44 - Surviving the Coldest Winter in Yellowstone
00:09:55 - Yellowstone Ski Trips and Survival Experiences
00:12:27 - Teaching Snow and Polar Regions in Vietnam
00:15:29 - The Importance of Tracking in Early Human Survival
00:18:12 - The Art and Science of Tracking
00:21:28 - Forensic Tracking: Revealing the Hidden Story
00:23:44 - Careful Carcass Examination: Gathering Evidence for Accurate Identification
00:26:18 - Evaluating Forensic Evidence: Probability and Quality
00:28:12 - Tracking Animals Across Continents
00:30:52 - Tracking Paws: Webbing, Claws, and Unique Adaptations
00:33:22 - Comparing Bear Claws and Tracks
00:35:42 - Exploring the Skulls of Bears, Wolves, and Prey Animals
00:37:40 - Analyzing Bones and Tracks of Wildlife
00:39:42 - Protecting Planet Earth: Collective Responsibility and Action
#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #publiclands #keepitpublic #yellowstone #yellowstonenationalpark #wolves #wolf #grizzlybear #carnivoreecology #ecology #jimhalfpenny #jameshalfpenny
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Hal Herring is an award-winning journalist and writer renowned for his work in conservation and investigative journalism. His writing has appeared in notable publications such as The Atlantic, The Economist, and Orion. He is also a contributing editor at Field & Stream and a regular contributor to High Country News.
Beyond his writing, Herring has made significant contributions to the podcasting world as the host of the "Podcast & Blast with Hal Herring," produced by Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. This podcast delves into topics related to conservation, hunting, and the outdoors, reflecting Herring's commitment to these issues.
Herring's dedication to conservation and the outdoors is evident not only in his writing but also in his active involvement in related communities and initiatives. His work continues to inspire and inform those passionate about the natural world and its preservation. https://www.halherring.com/
SHOW NOTES:
00:03:36 - Formative Years of an Outdoor Writer
00:05:13 - Discovering the Wonders of Western Public Lands
00:07:10 - From Alabama to Montana: A Life in the Wild
00:09:08 - Dual Citizenship and Montana's Arid Landscape
00:10:48 - The Arid Beauty and Vital Watersheds of Public Lands
00:13:52 - The Importance of Public Lands in America
00:15:36 - The Origins of Forest Conservation in the US
00:19:10 - The Timber Reserve Act and the Clash of Conservation Visions
00:21:17 - Preserving America's Public Lands
00:25:57 - Valuing America's Public Lands
00:28:16 - The Importance of Public Lands and Collaborative Management
00:30:49 - Valuing and Preserving America's Public Lands
00:33:08 - Preserving Wildlife Corridors on Public Lands
00:35:07 - Preserving America's Public Lands for Future Generations
00:38:13 - Connect with Nature to Conserve It
#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #publiclands #keepitpublic #halherring #backcountryhuntersandanglers #bha
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Lisa Barill, a wildlife biologist and science writer, shares the fascinating story of ice patch archaeology and how melting glaciers are revealing a trove of ancient artifacts around the world.
She earned a B.S. in biology from Eastern Connecticut State University in 2000 and a master's degree from Montana State University in 2009. Baril has extensive experience writing about natural resources and science for national parks across the southwestern United States. She is a member of the National Association of Science Writers, the Society of Environmental Journalists, and the Outdoor Writers Association of America. In 2024, she authored "The Age of Melt: What Glaciers, Ice Mummies, and Ancient Artifacts Teach Us about Climate, Culture, and a Future Without Ice," exploring the deep-rooted cultural connection between humans and ice throughout history.
Show Notes:
00:02:16 - Growing Up Adventuring in Connecticut
00:05:30 - From Discovery Channel to Yellowstone: A Wildlife Biologist's Journey
00:07:26 - Raptors and Songbirds in Yellowstone: Insights from Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and Peregrine Falcons
00:10:33 - Wolves, Beavers, and Willow Growth in Yellowstone
00:12:41 - Glaciers, Ice Mummies, and Ancient Artifacts
00:14:37 - 10,300-Year-Old Hunting Tool Discovered in Ice Patch
00:16:47 - The Atlatl: An Ancient Hunting Tool
00:21:27 - Hunting and Survival in Mountain Ice Patches
00:24:42 - Scaring Sticks and Preserved Artifacts
00:27:57 - Ancient Remains Discovered: Champaign and Asiak Negotiate Rights
00:32:37 - A World Without Ice: Melting Glaciers and Warming Temperatures
00:35:25 - Climate Change's Unprecedented Threat
00:37:34 - Redefining Wilderness: Honoring Indigenous Histories
00:40:41 - Reducing Microplastics: Easy Steps for a Healthier Environment
#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretrave #climateaction #climatechange #climate #yellowstonenationalpark #lisabaril #ageofmelt
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Discover the remarkable story of how a Greek immigrant's fruit stand in early 1900s Missoula blossomed into Caras Nursery, a thriving family business spanning over 100 years. Bill Caras shares heartwarming tales of growing up in a close-knit community during the 1950s and 60s, where childhood adventures and family values shaped his future.
Beyond the nursery, Bill reveals his passion for historical maps, sharing insights into rare cartographic treasures dating back to the 1500s. His collection offers fascinating glimpses into Montana's early development and the evolution of the American West.
Join us for this captivating episode that weaves together family heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and the deep roots that connect one family to their community.
Show notes:
00:04:18 - Family Business Transitions and Expansion
00:06:43 - Returning to the Family Nursery
00:08:43 - From Nursery Catalogs to Greek Roots
00:11:24 - Family's Fruit Store and Nursery History
00:13:05 - Childhood Home and Family History
00:17:21 - Exploring Montana's Evolving Maps
00:18:46 - Exploring Ancient Maps and Their History
00:21:12 - Antique Maps: A Fascinating History
00:24:56 - Exploring the Vibrant World of Plants
00:26:38 - Balancing Nature and Deer in the Garden
00:30:00 - Caring for Outdoor Plants: Watering, Pests, and Avoiding Damage
00:34:09 - Native Plants and Landscaping Choices
00:38:14 - Preserving Missoula's Spirit Through Kindness and Optimism
00:40:14 - Advice for a Positive Life from a Nursery Owner
#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretrave #carasnursery #plantlovers #botany #billcaras
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Ramona Holt grew up in Montana’s ranching and rodeo scene, participating in youth, intercollegiate and professional rodeo. As an adult, she dedicated her life to promoting the western way of living, and for 30 years Ramona and her husband, Bill, traveled throughout the western United States, Canada and Australia promoting professional rodeo and the West. They started their own herd of Texas Longhorn Cattle in 1967 and were the first to export those cattle from the U.S. to Australia in 1985—leading to the government honoring them at an exposition in 1986 in Mackay, Australia.
Today, as a trustee representing Western Montana for the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Center, Ramona recommends people and ranches to be honored each year. In 2018, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association honored her as the “Notable Lady of the West” at their World of Rodeo Reunion in Las Vegas. Her life has been dedicated to telling the story of the western way through many avenues including the creation of the Holt Heritage Museum—located in Lolo and open by appointment only—which houses rodeo and western artifacts, including 20 horse-drawn vehicles.
Show notes:
00:03:10 - Growing Up on a Remote Ranch
00:06:26 - A Life in Fisheries and Rodeo
00:10:15 - Raising Money for Nonprofits through Art Shows
00:12:36 - Exporting Longhorn Cattle to Australia
00:14:46 - Grandchildren, Elders, and the Legacy of Lewis and Clark
00:18:03 - Lewis and Clark's Military Camp Setup
00:21:00 - Friendly Natives Aided Lewis and Clark
00:23:48 - Cultivating Small-Scale Sustainability
00:26:53 - Rich History of Indigenous Peoples in the Valley
00:31:27 - Polywog Shirts and Nez Perce Artifacts
00:34:11 - Preserving Native Traditions: Cornmeal and Moss Bags
00:36:36 - Preserving the Valley's Heritage
#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #ramonaholt #montanarodeo #montanaranch #montanaranching #montanacowgirl #cowgirl #montanahistory
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Dr. Diane Boyd is a wildlife biologist who has 45+ years of applied expertise on behavior, conservation and management of wild wolf populations. She is the author of "A Woman Among Wolves: My Journey Through Forty Years of Wolf Recovery."
Show Notes:
00:02:54 - Discovering Wolves in the Wild
00:05:20 - From Wildlife Biologist to Wolf Researcher: A Journey
00:07:56 - Discovering the Rugged Beauty of Glacier National Park
00:10:54 - Lone Wolf Survivor in Montana
00:12:30 - The Wolves' Natural Migration to Montana
00:14:36 - Wolves Roaming from Montana to Yellowstone
00:16:59 - Wolves' Vocal Repertoire and Tracking Techniques
00:20:46 - Saving a Hypothermic Wolf
00:22:54 - Rescuing a Drugged Wolf in the Rain
00:25:39 - Debunking the Wolf Relocation Myth
00:27:33 - Comparing European and North American Wolves
00:29:59 - Wolves: Misunderstood Neighbors
00:32:06 - Coexisting with Wolves: Balancing Livestock and Ecosystem Needs
00:36:08 - Wolves and Other Predators in the Ecosystem
00:37:23 - Weaving Science, Ecology, and Resilience
00:39:30 - Preventing Chronic Wasting Disease in Montana
#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #dianeboyd #wolves #wolf #wolfconservation #glaciernationalpark #yellowstonenationalpark
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Marilyn Marler holds a Bachelor's degree from University of California, Davis and a Master's degree from the University of Montana, both in Biology. She has been a Natural Areas Specialist at the University of Montana since 1998. Marilyn brings 25 years’ experience in land stewardship, science education, and public service to her role at MNHC. She grew up in the Sierra Nevada foothills, attended UC Davis for her biology degree, and moved to Missoula in 1994 for a master’s in biology at the University of Montana. For the last 28 years Marilyn and her husband David have enjoyed Missoula’s vibrant community spirit and Montana’s unmatched outdoor pursuits. She has served on the boards of many state and local non-profits and has served in elected office in both city and state government.
Show notes:
00:04:28 - Growing Up in the Sierra Nevada Foothills
00:07:02 - Hunting, Conservation, and Personal Journey
00:10:39 - The Role of Hunters in Conservation
00:12:24 - Promoting Nature Appreciation Through Education
00:14:58 - Free Nature Exploration for Young Kids
00:17:57 - Embracing Native Plants and Art Exploration
00:20:07 - The Benefits of Membership
00:23:22 - Life as a Montana Legislator
00:26:01 - The Hectic Life of a Legislator
00:28:25 - Passion for Native Plants and Land Stewardship
00:31:22 - The Fragile Beauty of Montana's Wildflowers
00:33:07 - Appreciating Nature in Missoula
00:35:09 - Fostering Nature Connection through Classroom Mentorship
00:38:28 - Inspiring the Next Generation of Nature Stewards
00:41:02 - Montana Natural History Center Staff and Board share their Passion
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