Join host Martin as he celebrates the 4-year anniversary of Papa Bear Hikes! In this special episode, Martin reflects on the incredible journey of the podcast, from its humble beginnings to becoming a go-to resource for outdoor enthusiasts. He also dives into a review of Rue McKenrick's inspiring book, American Perimeter Trail Volume 1 West: A 14,000 Mile Journey, sharing insights into this epic adventure and its impact on the hiking community.Additionally, Martin shares an exciting new chapt...
Join host Martin on this week's episode of Papa Bear Hikes as we trek into the experiences and adventures of Audrey Payne, affectionately known as "Glowstick" in the hiking community. With over 1,495 inspiring posts and a following of 10,000 outdoor enthusiasts, Audrey brings a wealth of knowledge and stories from some of the most challenging and beautiful trails she's conquered.From the rugged terrains of the Appalachian Trail to the scenic vistas of the John Muir Trail, Audrey discusses her...
Join host Martin in this episode of Papa Bear Hikes as he chats with Ben “Paddox” Cox, a lifelong outdoor enthusiast whose passion was sparked by family ties. Growing up in Dorchester County, Maryland, and continuing his journey at Western Carolina University, Ben developed a deep love for the outdoors.He shares his recent experience in the Norwegian backcountry, reveling in the freedom of Allemannsretten, which allows camping and hiking almost anywhere. Ben recounts finding a peaceful campsi...
Lucy and Wombat are returning to the Papa Bear Hikes podcast with host Martin!Since 2017, they’ve been walking the length of the Earth, from Argentina to Alaska (📍USA, 🏡 AUS), and have picked up a few world records along the way.Support Lucy’s journey by donating to her GoFundMe here: Lucy’s GoFundMe, and check out her YouTube channel for more updates: YouTube Channel.Follow her adventures on Instagram as well: Instagram Channel. Every contribution helps! Avalon Publicity & Business Servi...
In this exciting episode of *Papa Bear Hikes*, host Martin welcomes back the ever-inspiring Ann-Marie, who is not only an outdoorswoman with a splash of humor but also a book contributor for *TENT LIFE*. Join them as they reflect on her thrilling summer adventures of 2024, revisiting past conversations about essential gear, delicious trail food, lightweight backpacking, and yes, even the infamous "thunderboxes"!Ann is all about adapting and pivoting on the trail. She believes that you don’t h...
In this exciting episode of Papa Bear Hikes, Martin welcomes back good friend and returning guest Mostafa! With a background in physical training and education, Mostafa brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conversation. Together, they dive into the world of Tough Mudder, discussing what it takes to conquer one of the most thrilling and challenging obstacle course races out there. From training tips to the mental and physical endurance needed to tackle mud, sweat, and fun, this e...
This week, *Papa Bear Hikes* explores how travel and adventure can become lifelong companions, shaping our experiences across every stage of life. Our guest, **Bob Delaney**—trail name "Jon's Dad"—joins host Martin to share his remarkable journey. Now in his early sixties, Bob recently completed a 300-mile thru-hike along Sweden’s **Kungsleden**, also known as The King’s Trail, a 30-day adventure he gifted himself in retirement.From childhood explorations to fatherhood and now into retirement...
In this episode of *Papa Bear Hikes*, host Martin sits down with Dr. David Lipman, a highly respected chiropractic physician and the owner of Physical Evidence Chiropractic. With decades of experience, Dr. Lipman has treated thousands of patients, guiding them toward optimal health and wellness. At over 60 years old, Dr. Lipman has not only maintained but elevated his physical and mental health through bio-optimization techniques that he passionately shares with others.Join us as we dive into...
Join us on a special episode of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast where we sit down with the viral hiking duo, Renee Miller and Tim Beissinger, known on social media as [@thruhikers](https://www.tiktok.com/@thruhikers). With over 2.3 million followers, Renee and Tim are not only social media sensations but also newly minted authors. Their debut book, [Thruhikers: A Guide to Life on the Trail](https://www.amazon.com/), hits shelves on August 20th, and offers a wealth of knowledge and stories from th...
In this episode of Papa Bear Hikes, Martin welcomes back wilderness expert Dr. Robert Scanlon to discuss one of the most common dangers in the great outdoors: falling from cliffs and drop-offs. Whether you're hiking a steep mountain trail or exploring a scenic overlook, understanding the risks and how to avoid them is crucial.Dr. Scanlon breaks down the serious consequences of falls—explaining how even a drop of less than 20 feet can cause severe bone and joint injuries, while anything over 2...
Join host Martin Armitage and wilderness safety expert Dr. Rob Scanlon on Papa Bear Hikes as they explore the dangers of crossing mountain streams, a leading cause of hiker fatalities. Learn about the risks posed by depth and fast-flowing water, and get essential tips for safe stream crossings, including wearing water shoes, unbuckling pack straps, and using a trekking pole. Tune in for crucial advice to stay safe on the trails!Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digi...
Join host Martin and returning expert Dr. Scanlon in this episode of Papa Bear Hikes as they explore the art of navigation using the sun. Don’t have a compass? No problem! Discover how to determine direction with celestial cues.Dr. Scanlon shares valuable insights on how the sun’s position can guide you in the wilderness. Whether it’s rising, setting, or high in the sky, learn how to use the sun to find your way.Tune in to this insightful episode and never feel lost again with these practical...
In this solo episode of Papa Bear Hikes, Martin tackles the hands-on topic of bike maintenance and repair. He shares his recent experience fixing his bike, offering practical tips and advice on how to keep your bike in top condition, whether you're on a long-distance trail or just commuting around town.Martin also dives into a review of the Founder of Gossamer Gear, Glen Van Peski's thought-provoking book, "Take Less, Do More." He discusses the key takeaways and how the book's minimalist phil...
In this captivating episode of Papa Bear Hikes, host Martin presents a dual review that promises to engage both your adventurous spirit and your love for storytelling. First, Martin dives into an in-depth review of the Skyline Trail Joggers by Outdoor Vitals, a top choice for hikers seeking comfort, durability, and performance on the trails. He shares his firsthand experiences, highlighting the joggers' key features such as breathability, water resistance, and practical design elements.But th...
In this captivating episode of Papa Bear Hikes, we welcome back a truly inspiring guest, Rue McKenrick. Rue is not only a dedicated conservationist but also the visionary Founder and Director of the American Perimeter Trail and its governing body. As a Triple Crowner and the first thru-hiker of the APT, Rue has accomplished what many only dream of.Join us as we dive into the remarkable journey detailed in his new book, American Perimeter Trail Volume 1 West: A 14,000 Mile Journey. Rue shares ...
In this special episode of Papa Bear Hikes, we welcome back a dear friend and avid hiker, Jake "Sidetrack" Arens. Jake, who has completed the Appalachian Trail Thru-hike, returns to inspire both those with Cerebral Palsy and hiking enthusiasts alike.Join us as Jake shares his journey, emphasizing the importance of listening to your body and taking each hike one day at a time. He offers practical tips, tricks, and trails, and discusses how he manages to balance his life as a golf course greens...
Get ready for an exhilarating episode on Papa Bear Hikes as we welcome back the adventurous Katie "Oats" Houston! With a science background and hailing from scenic Asheville, NC, Katie blazed trails by daring to turn her dreams into reality, embarking on a life-changing thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail at the young age of 21. In this episode, Katie shares her unforgettable experiences from Trail Days, the annual hiker festival in Damascus, Virginia. She dives into the vibrant hik...
Gastronomy: Exploring Edible Insects with Jason Knight .Welcome back to another thrilling episode of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast! Host Martin is delighted to welcome back the immensely knowledgeable Jason Knight. With a wealth of experience in wilderness education since 1997, Jason is a highly sought-after authority in the field. His expertise has led him to consult as a local wilderness skills expert for the Discovery Channel and feature on NPR. As a co-founder and instructor at Alderl...
Get ready for an exhilarating episode on Papa Bear Hikes as we welcome back the adventurous Katie "Oats" Houston! With a science background and hailing from scenic Asheville, NC, Katieblazed trails by daring to turn her dreams into reality, embarking on a life-changing thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail at the young age of 21.But hold on tight, because the adventure doesn't stop there! Tune in to uncover Katie's remarkable journey and her fascinating insights into water filtration technology....
Welcome back, hikers, to another exciting episode of Papa Bear Hikes! I'm your host, Martin, and today, we're diving into the heart of an island paradise with a very special guest and friend, Colleen Meyer.Colleen and her husband Greg recently embarked on a captivating journey through Volcanoes National Park with friends. Despite not being expert hikers, their passion for nature and adventure has led them to some incredible places, including a recent trek through this mesmerizing landscape.Jo...
Christopher “ArmDawg” Armi
great show