Bush & Banter

In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat with Heli Ski Guide and Former Pararescue Jumper, Paul "Bear" Barendregt. After enlisting in the Air Force right out of high school, Bear later joined the Alaska Air National Guard in 2000 and has since emerged as one of the most distinguished and recognizable pararescuemen in Alaska's wilderness rescue community.  With an impressive track record, he's directly responsible for saving 106 lives and assisting an additional 43 survivors across 91 challenging rescue missions in Alaska. Moreover, his expertise extends beyond Alaska's borders, having deployed worldwide for combat rescue missions and humanitarian aid efforts. These days, he's sharing his wealth of experience as a Heli Ski Guide, leading adventurous backcountry skiers through some of Alaska's most remote and wild mountain ranges. In this episode, they touch on some of his most daring rescue missions, the challenges of training, and what it’s like skiing some of the greatest mountain ranges in the world.Chugach Powder Guides www.chugachpowderguides.comWhere to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, Jen and Dyana embark on a nostalgic journey, reminiscing about their most beloved adventure tales from both the screen and the pages. From classics like "The Goonies" and "Alice in Wonderland" to timeless favorites such as "Hook" and "The Wizard of Oz," the duo dives into the stories that ignited their sense of adventure as adults.Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

Occasionally, hardworking individuals are blessed with the ultimate gift: time off. Whether it's just a day, a week, or even more, it's a precious opportunity. If you've been granted a week off and have a hankering for hiking, this episode is tailor-made for you. In our latest Outdoor Quickie, Jen shares her top three sections of the Pacific Crest Trail, while Dyana offers insights into the best shorter sections of the Pacific Northwest Trail. All it takes is some gear, a can-do attitude, and maybe a can of wine. Happy Trails!Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode Jen and Dyana chat with Ultra-Runner, Comedian, and Traveler Jeffrey Binney. His journey took a profound turn after the loss of his mother to heart disease. Determined to avoid a similar fate, he embarked on a transformative path, challenging himself by conquering one of the most grueling 100-mile ultramarathons. His inspiring experience became the subject of his captivating film, "Once is Enough." Today, Jeffrey stands as not only a resilient figure but also a gifted motivational speaker and comedian. Currently, he's gearing up for his next ambitious adventure: hiking the 2,653-mile Pacific Crest Trail. Additionally, in this episode, Jen shares insightful advice for his upcoming thru-hike, while Dyana offers valuable tips on writing a book.Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, Jen and Dyana are joined by Danish traveler and adventurer, Thor Pedersen, renowned for his unparalleled achievement of visiting every single country in the world without the use of air travel. Thor embarked on this remarkable journey in 2013, dedicating 10 years to exploring 203 countries. Thor shares tales of love, resilience during the pandemic, the generosity of strangers, unconventional modes of travel, global culinary delights, and uplifting words of encouragement for aspiring travelers.  An esteemed traveler, speaker, adventurer, and Goodwill Ambassador of the Danish Red Cross, Thor's experiences offer a glimpse into what is possible when you pass on that early flight home. Thor Pedersen on Instagram www.instagram.com/onceuponasaga/Once Upon a Saga www.onceuponasaga.dk/Danish Red Cross https://en.rodekors.dk/Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, Jen and Dyana introduce and discuss National Geographic’s 20 Best Adventures of 2024. From the awe-inspiring spectacle of bear watching in Alaska to the serene beauty of cruising down a river in Colombia, from the adrenaline rush of hiking a volcano in Panama to one of the ultimate tests of endurance—running an Olympic Marathon in Paris—these experiences redefine adventure. Join the duo as they uncover some of the most extraordinary escapades our planet has to offer. Listen to the interviews mentioned in this episode:Steph Jagger (broke skiing world record) - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bush-banter/id1639961984?i=1000603337507Felicity Aston (solo traveled across Antarctica) - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bush-banter/id1639961984?i=1000636959863Find the National Geographic article here: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/best-of-the-world-20-experiences-for-2024Timestamps:0:00 - Intro0:47 - Dyana's disturbing evening plans...3:39 - Top 20 Adventures for 2024 by National Geographic6:06 - #20 through #1120:24 - #10 through #141:39 - Dyana and Jen's top adventure pick43:57 - Use your vacation days, folks!Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In their first under 20-minute episode called an "Outdoor Quickie," Jen and Dyana delve into the exhilarating world of Fastest Known Times (FKTs), exploring what it takes to break world records in hiking. They uncover the allure for adventurous individuals who crave speed and aspire to set new standards in the outdoor space.Check out the FKT website: www.fastestknowntime.comFollow Paul Johnson as he runs across the United States: www.instagram.com/pauijohnsonTimestamps:0:00 Intro0:24 What is an Outdoor Quickie?0:50 Fastest Known Times (FKTs)2:35 How to qualify an FKT route3:21 Unsupported FKT4:29 Self-Supported FKT5:35 Supported FKT6:26 Now how fast are these people anyway?7:25 Naval Officer, Paul Johnson, running across America9:40 Why would someone go for an Fastest Known Time record?13:04 Kristian Morgan sets new Appalachian Trail FKT15:30 Who coined the term "FKT"?16:15 Is Dyana going to attempt her own FKT?Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, Jen and Dyana discuss how influence shapes their goal-setting and achievement. They delve into the benefits of pursuing goals quietly and explore how this approach can be the most effective in turning dreams into reality.Mentioned in the episode is The Huberman Lab Podcast episode called "Goals Toolkit: How to Set & Achieve Your Goals." Listen here - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/huberman-lab/id1545953110?i=1000625908647Timestamps:0:00 Intro0:27 Dyana's odd question...3:31 What does influence mean to you?4:54 How are you affected by the influence of those who don't understand you?5:48 Andrew Huberman7:28 Setting goals9:03 Community12:24 Huberman's 3 steps for achieving a goal14:18 Accountability as a motivator18:30 Importance of a supportive, honest circle20:51 Huberman's method to setting goals30:13 Social media influencers and thru-hiking vloggers34:20 Dyana wants to punch youWhere to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, Jen and Dyana talk with Survival Specialist Jessie Krebs, who shares essential tips for staying alive in the backcountry, covering everything from signaling to self-protection. Krebs, one of the few S.E.R.E. (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) specialists who taught military members how to survive behind enemy lines, also appeared as a contestant on the hit television show "Alone" and offers her own Masterclass in Survival Training. Currently, she teaches a variety of in-person classes at her O.W.L.S. Skills School in Colorado.  Follow Jessie Krebs @owls.skillsCheck out O.W.L.S Skills  owlsskills.comTimestamps:0:00 Welcome back!1:02 Jen's BIG news3:12 Guest Introduction5:15 Wild Women on the Water8:30 Road kill deer...?11:11 Jessie's Background16:06 Jessie's Hypothermia Experience18:24 Wilderness Therapy25:38 How Dyana found Jessie26:20 What to do if you get lost outdoors33:40 How long can humans last without food and water?35:46 Importance of a shelter for psychological health39:04 Top essential items to take when hiking39:58 5 Basic Needs49:58 How long can it take someone to become a survival expert?51:51 One of Jessie's most impactful moments in nature58:13 What to do in a lightning storm1:08:15 O.W.L.S. Skills Outdoor School1:10:56 Can Dyana survive in the wilderness?1:16:14 The Hadza - one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes on EarthWhere to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, Jen and Dyana talk with Felicity Aston, a British Polar Explorer, Author, Climate Scientist, and Speaker. In 2012, she achieved the remarkable feat of being the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica, covering a distance of 1,084 miles. The expedition spanned 59 days, culminating in her securing a well-deserved place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Felicity's accomplishment stands as a significant milestone in Antarctic exploration. It's safe to say she is much cooler than Jen and Dyana.More on Felicity Aston: Website: http://www.felicityaston.co.ukThe B.I.G North Pole Research Expedition:https://www.bignorthpole.comBooks from Felicity: All Books TED TALK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guzHdf7mp0EWhere to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this location spotlight, Jen and Dyana take listeners to the magical land of New Zealand, where they chat with Trail Advocate KJ Jennings. They discuss bungee jumping, the Te Araroa Trail, The All Blacks, and KJ’s work in connecting people in the outdoor community through trails. At the end of the episode, Jen and Dyana also share their favorite adventures while exploring the country and a few unforgettable memories. Connect with KJ Jennings:Instagram - @kageinqt For more information on the Te Araroa Trail: https://www.teararoa.org.nz/"A Trail For Me"  - Trails Master Plan for Connected Communities: https://youtu.be/YznR3NDwDYcInfo on the single-track sidewalk project in Eagle Colorado: https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-gear/bikes-and-biking/connecting-town-singletrack-sidewalks/Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat  with Author and Founder Jessica Chenard, delving into her debut memoir, "Her Hike." The discussion spans across the realms of writing, hiking, healing, and the journey of discovering purpose amidst the challenges of grief. Jessica shares her journey of healing after her brother's tragic death, rediscovering a love for the outdoors along the Appalachian Trail. She also introduces Her Hike Collective, an all-women's hiking community promoting healing and camaraderie in the outdoor space. Connect with Jessica Chenard Website - https://jessicachenard.comInstagram - @jessicaryanphoto Her Hike Collective -@herhikecollective Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat with journalist/author James Edward Mills. He is the author of the book "The Adventure Gap: Changing the Face of the Outdoors" which chronicles the first all-African American summit attempt on Denali, the highest point in North America. He is a contributor to National Geographic Magazine, a Fellow of the Mountain & Wilderness Writing Program at the Banff Centre in Alberta, Canada, and a recipient of the Paul K. Petzoldt Award for Environmental Education. As a freelance journalist and an independent media producer with a career spanning over 20 years, he specializes in sharing stories about outdoor recreation, environmental conservation, acts of charitable giving, and practices of sustainable living. He has worked in the outdoor industry since 1989 as a guide, outfitter, independent sales representative, writer, and photographer and recently is the co-writer and co-producer of the documentary film "An American Ascent.”Connect with James Edward Mills Instagram - @joytripproject The Joy Trip Project - https://joytripproject.com/about-joy-trip-project/Purchase "The Adventure Gap: Changing the Face of the Outdoors" Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, the hosts of Bush and Banter, Jennifer and Dyana, dive deep into the intriguing subject of failure. The duo candidly share their personal stories of failure and discuss how the biggest downfalls can remarkably shape one's life for the better.Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat with Pro Highliner Faith Dickey who is one of the greatest in the sport. Highlining is similar to walking a tightrope, yet Dickey walks across a rope sprawled out between two canyons with a drop below that will make anyone’s jaw (literally) drop.  In 2012, Faith broke the record for the longest free solo, that's highlining without a safety harness. Then in 2014, she became the first woman to cross a highline over 100 meters long. She is currently the Owner/Operator of Elevate Outdoors Guiding and Founder of Women’s Highline Meeting. Connect with Faith Dickey Instagram - @thefaithdickey Elevate Outdoors Guiding Website - elevateoutdoorsguiding.comInstagram - @elevateoutdoors Women's Highline Meeting Instagram - @womenshighlinemeetingWebsite - womenshighlinemeeting.comWhere to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In the first episode of the fourth season of 'Bush and Banter,' Jen and Dyana chat with Travel Journalist Jeff Jenkins, whose new show on Nat Geo, 'Never Say Never with Jeff Jenkins,' has viewers questioning their own limitations. Jenkins travels the world, testing the limits of his physical abilities. Throughout his global odyssey, Jeff makes deep connections with locals and learns not just about the world, but also about himself.Follow Jeff JenkinsInstagram - @chubbydiaries Facebook - @iamjjenks  Watch "Never Say Never with Jeff Jenkins" - NatGeo Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this episode, Dyana chats with fellow author and adventurer Christine Reed, whose debut memoir, "Alone in Wonderland," chronicles her hiking adventure along the Wonderland Trail and her quest for independence through solo exploration of nature. Reed discovered long-distance backpacking while surfing the internet at work one day and decided to attempt a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. She has also tackled the Colorado Trail and covered thousands of more miles. Currently, she is working on a short story collection written by and for female-bodied individuals in the outdoors.Connect with Christine Reed Purchase "Alone in Wonderland" - www.ruggedoutdoorswoman.com/online-storeInstagram - @ruggedoutdoorswomanWhere to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

Jen and Dyana kick off their new location spotlight series with a place near and dear to their hearts: Lake Tahoe. The two discuss their thru-hike of the Tahoe Rim Trail, as well as list off their favorite places around the lake to explore, dine, and hang out. Featured in the episode is a $19 million dollar estate, a "wet woody," and Jen giving listeners a very important lesson in Lake Tahoe's history and culture. If you are planning on visiting Lake Tahoe in the near future, this is a must-listen; otherwise, you will miss out. You're welcome, travelers.Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

In this special, surprise one-year anniversary episode, Jen and Dyana reminisce about the last year and what they have learned. The duo also discuss their hopes and dreams for the future of Bush and Banter, including a bar and perhaps an astronaut. These girls can dream. A special thank you to all the listeners for your support. Here's to the next year, may it be even Bushier and filled with lots of Banter.Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman

DISCLAIMER: This episode was recorded on June 22nd, prior to the SAG Strike. In this episode, Jen and Dyana talk with Champion Swimmer, Author, Public Speaker, and National Icon, Diana Nyad.  On September 2, 2013, at the age of sixty-four, Diana Nyad became the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without the aid of a shark cage, swimming 111 miles in fifty-three hours from Havana to Key West. In the 1970s, she became known as the world’s greatest long-distance swimmer with her open-water achievements, including a record-breaking swim around Manhattan. For the next thirty years, Nyad was a prominent sports broadcaster and journalist. She is the author of her memoir, Find a Way, and three other books, and later this year a film will be released starring Annette Bening and Jodie Foster directed by Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi spotlighting Diana’s complex, wild, and incredible life story. Connect with Diana - Website  - www.diananyad.comEverWalk - www.everwalk.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/diananyadWhere to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @thewhimsicalwoman