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Description
Hear from the folks that live, breathe and know the national parks best.
All episodes, including vlogs, are available on our YouTube channel @safetravelspod.
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Safe Travels is a media network that sits down with park rangers to discuss unique areas of each park. The goal of each episode is to help educate current and future visitors on ways to stay safe and keep the park healthy.
All episodes, including vlogs, are available on our YouTube channel @safetravelspod.
__
Safe Travels is a media network that sits down with park rangers to discuss unique areas of each park. The goal of each episode is to help educate current and future visitors on ways to stay safe and keep the park healthy.
46 Episodes
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Dr. Morgan Cable is a research scientist at NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. Her mission is to help answer one of humanity’s biggest questions: are we alone in the universe?In this episode, we explore how NASA uses national parks as analog sites to study the landscapes of other worlds. Dr. Cable explains how these environments provide testing grounds for new technologies designed to operate on different terrains and in alien atmospheres.Named to the American Chemical Society’s “Talented 12” in 2018, Dr. Cable has contributed to some of NASA’s most exciting missions, including Cassini-Huygens, the Mars Perseverance Rover, Europa Clipper, and the Dragonfly mission to Titan.Our conversation also dives into the mysteries of the ocean worlds Europa and Enceladus—their habitability, potential for life, and why they captivate planetary scientists. And beyond her work, we talk about Morgan’s adventurous hobbies, from surfing to mountain unicycling.It was an honor to host Dr. Morgan Cable on the podcast. Her passion, expertise, and energy are truly inspiring, and her contributions to planetary science are nothing short of remarkable.______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Will Deacy is the Large Mammal Ecologist at Rocky Mountain National Park, where he plays a key role in managing some of the park’s most iconic wildlife. With a background that includes grizzly bear research on Kodiak Island in Alaska, Will brings a wealth of experience to his work with Rocky’s booming elk and moose populations—species that have flourished in the absence of natural predators.In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of large mammals at Rocky Mountain National Park. Will shares insights into the ecological challenges of managing these populations and what it takes to maintain a balanced and healthy ecosystem in one of America's most beloved parks. We also chat through the importance of wetlands and riparian areas and the negative effects that large moose and elk have on these fragile ecosystems. Will is an incredible human who has accomplished so much in his role as a large mammal ecologist. I am grateful for his work and thankful for his time on this podcast. ______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
In this episode, we sit down with Mike Lukens, who has dedicated over 15 years to Rocky Mountain National Park and currently serves as the Climbing and Wilderness Program Supervisor. Mike oversees critical aspects of the park's operations, including Search and Rescue (SAR) efforts, ensuring visitor safety across its vast wilderness.Beyond his administrative role, Mike is an accomplished climber. In 2016, alongside Quinn Brett and Max Barlerin, he completed the first ascent of the "Colorado Route" on the south face of Fitz Roy in Patagonia—a challenging 500-meter climb rated at 5.11c .What You'll Learn:The diverse recreational opportunities within Rocky Mountain National Park, from technical climbs to serene backcountry adventures.Insights into the park's SAR operations and the importance of preventative measures for visitor safety.Mike's personal experiences and stories from his climbing expeditions and rescue missions.Why Listen:Gain a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and challenges of Rocky Mountain National Park through the eyes of a seasoned ranger and climber. Whether you're an avid adventurer or a casual park visitor, Mike's insights offer valuable perspectives on safety, exploration, and the spirit of the wilderness.______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Kyle Patterson is the Public Affairs Officer at Rocky Mountain National Park. For the past 23 years, she’s served as a Park Ranger, dedicating her career to community engagement and media relations.In this episode, Kyle and I dive into what makes Rocky Mountain one of America’s most iconic national parks. We explore the park’s rich history, how visitors experience its vast landscape, and the unique challenges and joys of protecting such a beloved place.Kyle’s passion for Rocky Mountain is undeniable. Her deep love for the park is infectious, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of our conversation.______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
In this episode, I’m joined by Carole Graham and Laura Brumbaugh, two archaeologists from Mesa Verde National Park. We explore their roles within the park, what makes the Mesa Verde region such a culturally rich and significant place, and the deep, continuous human history that has unfolded here over thousands of years.I'm incredibly grateful to have had both Carole and Laura on the podcast. Their knowledge and passion for archaeology—and for sharing the stories of the people who lived in this remarkable landscape—make this a special conversation.______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Satchel Martin is an Indigenous Ranger Intern at Mesa Verde National Park. Satchel is a part of the Hopi Tribe of Arizona and shares with us his special and personal perspective of the ancestral history and significance of Mesa Verde. I am so thankful for this conversation with Satchel. His personal stories and experiences are so special to listen to. His insight will help lead people towards a more connected and respectful experience when they're visiting Mesa Verde National Park.______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Dalton Dorrell is a Supervisory Park Ranger that focuses on Education, Community Outreach, and Interpretation at Mesa Verde National Park. In our conversation together, Ranger Dalton and I chatted through Mesa Verde's incredible history, tips and tricks for visitors, important safety rules and a whole lot more. Dalton is from south-western Colorado and has dreamed of working at Mesa Verde since he was a little kid. He even chased his dreams as a 12-year-old volunteering with the US Forest Service. I had an amazing time chatting with Ranger Dalton, he's a special human who cares deeply about our National Parks. ______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Brinnen Carter is the Chief of Resources at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. In this episode, Ranger Brinnen and I chat all about the incredible natural and cultural resources of the Black Canyon.From traditional hunting grounds for ancient tribes to learning all about the individuals that make up the resource team, Brinnen shares fascinating information throughout this podcast.I had a blast getting to sit down with Park Ranger Brinnen, he's an incredible land manager with an amazing amount of knowledge. ______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Lori Rome is the Chief of Interpretation at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. She's had an incredible career with the National Park Service, working at some of the premier parks in the United States. In this episode, Lori and I chat all about the Black Canyon - from Geology to wildlife and a whole lot more. Lori also shares tips for visitors that are looking to do some of the top hikes and those that dare to scramble down to the bottom of the canyon. ______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Ree Rodgers is the first and only archeologist at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. She is deeply passionate about her work and the human stories that make up our history. In this episode, Ree and I chat all about archeology, it's purpose, and the human stories that tell the story of the Great Sand Dunes. I really appreciate Ree, her storytelling and her work. Grateful to have had her on the podcast! ______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Fred Bunch is the Chief of Resources at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. Fred is a native of Alamosa, Colorado, and has been working at Great Sand Dunes for nearly 40 years. Fred has a very important role in the park, tasked with protecting and preserving the park's natural and cultural resources. In this podcast, we chat about what those resources are and what it means to Fred to be such a critical piece in protecting such a special area and park. Fred Bunch has such a wonderful, humorous personality. I feel very grateful to have spent time with him on the podcast! ______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Sierra Willoughby is the Chief of Interpretation at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. Sierra has served at 11 different National Park Service sites and is the definition of a park steward. In this podcast, Sierra and I discuss Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, from park rules to ways visitors recreate. Sierra is a wonderful guest who cares deeply about our national parks and wild places. ______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Dewane Mosher is a Park Ranger and Wildlife Biologist at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Dewane has had an interesting, and special, journey to the park service after spending two decades in the Army as a mechanic. In this episode, Dewane and I chatted about the incredible fish restoration story that has taken place in the waters that surround the Great Sand Dunes. We also discuss how to fish responsibly at the park, ways you can access the fish and much more! I loved having Dewane on the podcast, he is a selfless human who is passionate about the fish restoration projects. ______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Andrew Valdez is a Physical Scientist and is the first, and only, geologist at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. He is a native of Alamosa, Colorado - which is the gateway city to the Great Sand Dunes. Valdez was hired full-time with the NPS in 1994 and his work as a geologist helped lead the Great Sand Dunes to national park status. In this conversation, Andrew and I chatted all about the geology and hydrology of this magnificent landscape. It was such an honor to have Andrew join the podcast. He is filled with incredible passion and knowledge for the Great Sand Dunes. ______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Mak Regan is an ultrarunner based out of Colorado. Mak has an amazing running resume, including competing in multiple 100-mile races. In addition to running, Mak is a chemical engineer and has a passion for thru-hiking and the great outdoors. Soon, she will be taking off to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), a trail that spans 2,650 miles from the southern border in California to the northern border in Washington state.In our conversation together, Mak and I talk about her preparation for the PCT, food logistics, her passion for the outdoors and the amazing online community that she has built.Grateful to have had Mak on the podcast! A full-circle moment for us as we've known each other since the early days of elementary school. The episode will also be available on YouTube.______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
John Waller is a Park Ranger and Wildlife Biologist at Glacier National Park. He has spent over 20-years at the park and has accomplished many incredible feats during his tenure with the National Park Service. In this conversation, John and I go in-depth on grizzly bears and the carnivores that roam Glacier National Park. We cover grizzly behavior, share stories about John's incredible wildlife encounters, visitor and carnivore safety, plus a whole lot more.Big thanks to John for joining me on the podcast! I think this is one of our most authentic conversations yet. You can also watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ofojKsauwYg______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Park Ranger Diane Sine is a fixture at Glacier National Park. She's been recreating and working at the park for 45 summers and is currently the Lead Interpreter at Many Glacier. In this podcast, Diane and I chatted about her journey with the National Park Service, the geology of Glacier National Park, park history and general information surrounding trip planning to this majestic setting. Diane is an incredible human whose dedicated her life to telling the stories of one of America's most iconic national parks. The episode is also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bVrSq5bYR8E______________Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Scott Niedermayer is a four-time NHL Stanley Cup Champion, two-time Olympic Hockey Gold Medalist as the captain for team Canada and is a Hockey Hall of Famer. Scott is widely considered to be one of the best defensemen in NHL history and the greatest winner of his generation. In addition to his illustrious professional hockey career, Niedermayer is a conservationist with a deep passion for the outdoors. Scott's love for nature developed throughout his childhood while being raised in beautiful Cranbrook, British Columbia, Canada. In this podcast we talk about Niedermayer's love for the outdoors, the steps he's taken to further his understanding of the natural world and his current involvement with the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative. Here is where you can find more information on Y2Y: https://y2y.net/The full podcast is also available on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JfAXmHszI5U___Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Kenan Chan is one of the 1,000 NPS Park Rangers that were recently wrongfully terminated. Kenan was a Biological Science Technician at Channel Islands National Park that focused on long term monitoring of kelp forests and intertidal ecosystems. Kenan's work with the NPS was incredibly impactful for visitors and the ecosystems within the park. In our podcast together, Kenan and I chatted about his journey, the current challenges that the National Park Service is facing, how rangers were terminated and what visitors can do to support the parks. Here is Kenan's website: https://www.kenanchanphotography.com/New-site/About/AboutThe full podcast will also be available on YouTube. ___Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
Dr. Cameron Hummels is an astrophysicist and research scientist at Caltech focused on the formation and evolution of galaxies. Cameron and I recorded this episode at Death Valley National Park during their Dark Sky Festival. In this podcast, Dr. Hummels discussed the formation and evolution of galaxies, supercomputers, his journey through Death Valley, Occupy Mars, and much more!It was an honor getting to chat with Dr. Hummels, I had an absolute blast meeting him. I left the Dark Sky Festival absolutely enthralled and fascinated with space.For more information on Caltech Astronomy: https://www.astro.caltech.edu/View the full podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QenYStu130A___Follow us on social!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/safetravelspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@safetravelspodYouTube: youtube.com/@safetravelspodSafetravelspod.com
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