Exploration Local

From its industrial past to a future teeming with eco-tourism and innovation, Canton's story is one of resilience and transformation.In this episode, I sit down with Nick Scheuer, Canton’s Town Manager, and we delve into the captivating story of Chestnut Mountain Park, a sprawling 450-acre sanctuary helping to reshape Canton's economic and recreational landscape. We navigate the currents of Chestnut Mountain's impact on local businesses and the town's identity, illuminating how embracing outdoor recreation is propelling Canton into a new era of prosperity and purpose. We take a peek at the visionary redevelopment plans for the iconic mill site and emphasize the importance of community engagement and cultural preservation.*Part of the special Made by Mountains Collaboration SeriesPhoto Credit: Visit NC Smokies Made by Mountains Seth Alvo Berm Peak You Tube ChannelSAHCPisgah SORBAElevated Trail DesignChestnut Mountain ParkEquinoxCanton, NC BearWaters BrewingMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

Jared Lee's tale is a testament to the power of community and perseverance. From advocating for a skatepark at town hall meetings as a youngster to seeing the fruits of his labor in the form of a state-of-the-art facility, his journey underscores the significance of mentorship and communal effort. His influence extends beyond the skatepark; it's felt in the passion he instills in others, and in the way he champions environmental protection. It's a narrative that celebrates the collaborative spirit—how a united community can shape thriving environments for youth to chase their athletic dreams.In this heartfelt discussion, we don't just walk through Jared's personal milestones; we also examine the broader implications of outdoor activities and community engagement in enriching lives. We delve into the creation of memorable events like the Cat Classic and the Waynetown Throdown that bring people together over shared passions. Moreover, Jared's entrepreneurial spirit shines through as he balances his love for board sports with running a business, all while contributing to the stoke of his community. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODETown of WaynesvilleWaynesville Skate ParkCataloochee Ski AreaSkis and TeesSalty Dogs, Maggie ValleyFUMC Waynesville Mike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

In this episode I sit down with Laura Blythe, a citizen of the Eastern Band Cherokee Indians, as she shares her transformative experience through mountain biking. We delve into the Seven Moons Mountain Biking program, where Laura intertwines her vibrant Cherokee heritage into every pedal stroke on the Fire Mountain Trails system. Discover how this program transcends fitness, serving as a bridge between past and present, while nurturing a community that rides together and grows together.Laura paints a vivid picture of the Seven Moons program, where participants pedal through rides rich with Cherokee language, myths, and history, fostering a deeper connection to their roots and promoting physical and mental well-being. Through her narrative, we uncover the program's broader ambitions for youth outreach and cultural preservation, aiming to cultivate a new generation of bikers who carry the torch for their heritage with pride.7 Moons MTBEastern Band Cherokee IndiansFire Mountain Trails Cherokee, NCMADE X MTNSOutdoor Equity FundMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

In this episode, we're hitting the trails with Mike Doble, the driving force behind SkiSoutheast.com. We'll dive into the heart of the region's ski industry, guided by Mike's passion and dedication. From the humble beginnings of his websites to their current status as community pillars, Mike's honest reporting has kept skiers and snowboarders informed with real-time conditions and live camera feeds. Hear about the growth of local resorts and the rise of local talent on the national stage like Zeb Powell & Lili Bauer.We'll explore the vital role of snowmaking technology in transforming the Southeast and mid-Atlantic ski scenes. Marvel at the engineering feats that maintain hefty snow bases at mountains like Sugar and Cataloochee, regardless of Mother Nature's whims. But our adventure doesn't stop there! We delve into strategic partnerships and the revival of ski resorts like Timberline Mountain and discover the unique bond between ski resorts and meteorologists.Grab your boots, layer up, and join us for an episode celebrating the chill and thrill of skiing in the Southeast and mid-Atlantic!Mike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

When Brent Nelson swapped his corporate badge for the wild call of entrepreneurship, little did he know that his family RV trip would spark the creation of Tentrax, a beacon for adventurers seeking the ultimate in compact, customizable camping trailers. His story, infused with the warmth of a community brought together by a love for the outdoors, unfolds in our latest episode. We trace his journey from structured office life to the helm of a company that's not just selling trailers, but facilitating memories and friendships in the great outdoors.Our conversation navigates the intricate engineering behind Tentrax versatile campers, designed for vehicles of all sizes and the needs of diverse adventurers. Brent pulls back the curtain on the customization process, revealing how each trailer becomes a unique companion on the road, tailored to the clients' whims—from matching wheels and tires to outfitting for off-grid living. And just when you think campers are all about roughing it, we get a sneak peek at the 'Tailgater' model, blending the thrill of exploration with the joy of a mobile party hub.As we circle the campfire of stories—gold prospectors, backyard campers, and annual events that transform strangers into a band of outdoor aficionados—we're reminded that Tentrax is more than a trailer company; it's a cornerstone of a community that thrives on shared adventures. Brent's embrace of the collaborative spirit of the Outdoor Business Alliance, and his tales of individuals shaping their lives around the call of the wild, leave us not just with a yearning to hit the trails, but also with a sense of belonging to a larger story—the ongoing saga of human connection and the outdoors.Part of the Special Made x Mountains Collaboration Series Mike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

In this episode I sit down with Valerie Frapp, General Manager of the Historic Tapoco Lodge. We delve into the rich history, timeless design, and unparalleled craftsmanship that define this haven, virtually unchanged since its establishment in 1930. The Lodge's spacious and inviting layout, featuring the Tapoco dining room, Laurel Lounge Whiskey Bar, grand fireplace, library, and riverside seating with firepits, continues to captivate visitors.Discover the fascinating evolution of the Historic Tapoco Lodge through Valerie's insights into its 27 unique rooms, ranging from rustic cabins to luxurious suites, and the 11 enchanting hiking trails that weave through the property. But the magic doesn't end there – the staff's dedication to creating an unforgettable experience shines through, from incorporating local products into meals to fostering a warm holiday atmosphere, now extending throughout the year.No exploration of Historic Tapoco Lodge would be complete without delving into nearby wonders like the renowned Tale of the Dragon, the iconic Great Smoky Mountains National Park, serene Lake Santeetlah, the enchanting Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, and charming towns like Robbinsville and Bryson City.Join us on this unforgettable journey into the heart and soul of a historic yet modern gem – Historic Tapoco Lodge, where adventure and sanctuary seamlessly converge.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEPotawatomi Nation https://www.potawatomiheritage.com/encyclopedia/trail-of-death/Enthusiast Hotel Collection https://enthusiasthotels.com/Chalkboard Communications https://www.chalkboardcomm.comBenton MacKaye https://appalachiantrailhistory.org/exhibits/show/builders/bmackaye#:~:text=MacKaye%20wanted%20his%20proposed%20Trail,increasing%20stresses%20of%20urban%20society.Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48920Tail of the Dragon https://tailofthedragon.com/Historic Tapoco Lodge https://tapoco.com/Mike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

The trout streams in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and Great Smoky mountains of North Carolina make North Carolina a premier fly fishing destination. In fact, North Carolina is the most popular destination in the entire Eastern United States for trout fishing boasting over 3,000 miles of streams teaming with fish.In this episode I sit down with David Stelling, the owner of High Country Guide Service, as he shares the extraordinary allure of fly fishing in North Carolina's lush riverscapes. David reveals his passion for fly fishing, his deep roots in the community, and Western North Carolina which stretches back eight generations. David's love for his craft and these mountains is deep.We journey into the heart of Western North Carolina, famous for its fertile trout streams and local trout populations. Sharing the secrets behind the charm of local and tributaries of the New River, we delve into technical tips and discuss potential challenges that beginners might face. We also highlight the importance of being fully present, slowing down, and absorbing the serene beauty around us while fishing.We then traverse into the realm of community and camaraderie that builds during guided fishing trips. We stress the significance of responsible recreation and sustainability in outdoor tourism, proudly sharing our partnership with Outdoor NC &  Leave No Trace in North Carolina. This episode is a testament to the sport's deep impact on our lives and its crucial role in preserving our natural resources for future generations. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEHigh Country Guide ServiceBoone’s Fly ShopChosen River OutfittersLeave No TraceOutdoor NCMade X MountainsUproarAppalachian State UniversityMountain TrueWatauga River KeeperMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

What if you had the keys to unlock the beauty of North Carolina's outdoors responsibly? Today, I'm thrilled to take you on a journey with Amanda Baker, Partner Marketing Manager for the innovative Outdoor NC program. Together, we'll uncover the program's genesis, its three major components, and its key partnerships. The program is a trailblazer, centered around a noble cause - educating North Carolinians and visitors on the importance of responsible outdoor recreation. In partnership with Uproar Concept and Tourism Impact Services,  Outdoor NC is leading a movement to transform how tourists and residents alike can help preserve the natural beauty of North Carolina. We explore Outdoor NC's three flagship programs: Make it Your Nature, Accessible Outdoors, and the Designated Trails Program. We unpack all of these and more.In the final segment, we walk through the Outdoor NC initiative that aims to make these stories accessible to everyone - regardless of their physical abilities. We also shed light on the Trail Town designations and their efforts to enhance the user experience by labelling certain areas as trail-friendly. Wrapping up the conversation, we explore the upcoming Visit North Carolina conference, the benefits of becoming a community partner, and the Guide Summit, focused on responsible tourism. So, come along for an enlightening adventure into North Carolina's great outdoors and learn to appreciate and enjoy it responsibly.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEVisit NCOutdoor NCLeave No TraceUproar ConceptTourism Impact ServicesENOMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

What does it take to break barriers and invite more Black folks into the great outdoors? In this episode we unpack that, and a whole lot more as I sit down with Earl B Hunter, Jr. with Black Folks Camp Too to recap all the happenings since the last time Earl was on the show. Only this time, we go deeper.We reflect on Earl's transformational journey and how his high school football coach had a profound impact on his life. Earl's belief that 'a change gonna come' resonates powerfully with the civil rights movement and his vision for Black Folks Camp Too.Earl and I reflect on the importance of unity and inclusivity in enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds us. We delve into the reasons why many folks of color are yet to experience the outdoor lifestyle, and explore the impactful ways to extend an invitation to them. Hear about the winsome philosophy that keeps Earl motivated: a focus on the positive and a firm belief that unity is the key to success. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as we discuss the ROI of welcoming those new to nature and the significant benefits it can bring to the outdoor industry.As Earl rightly puts it, inviting more Black folks to the outdoors is not just about extending an invitation; it's about creating a space of unity open to all people. I hope you enjoy this eye & heart-opening episode that challenges us all to play our part in shaping a more inclusive and unified outdoor industry.Mike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

As a person of color, SAV's experiences in the outdoor world have not just shaped him, but also profoundly transformed his outlook on life, community, and identity. His inspiring journey is a testament to the power of the outdoors in fostering a sense of belonging, and why it's essential to extend this inclusivity into the workplace.From his humble beginnings with a weekend job at Orvis, Sav Sankaran has gone on to play a pivotal role in the company's corporate landscape. His experiences navigating the outdoor industry as a person of color have informed his unique approach to fostering belonging.In this episode I caught up with Sav at the  Outdoor Economy Conference in Cherokee, NC where he was a panelist speaking on “Breaking Barriers: Investing in DEI to Transform the Outdoor Industry”. We walk through Sav's personal journey in the outdoors, and he reflects on how his passion for fly fishing helped unlock his identity, and help gave him sense of community as a young boy growing up in Pennsylvania's Central Appalachia. Sav discusses the importance of fostering a sense of belonging for the underrepresented in the outdoors, and he draws on his personal journey to help contextualize an equitable and inclusive workplace.  Sav and I talk about our shared belief in treating people like human beings with dignity and kindness, and he urges us to not get caught up in the trappings of misunderstanding and over politicization. Based on decades of first hand experiences, the outdoors creates spaces where people from all walks of life, beliefs and backgrounds can come together to experience nature's beauty together. It's truly special when that carries over and translates into the workplace too. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEOrvis Outdoor Economy ConferenceMade X MtnsMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

Join us in a captivating journey with Witt Tuttle, the Executive Director of Visit North Carolina, as we unravel the scenic beauty and cultural diversity that makes North Carolina the sixth most visited state in the country. We pry into the heart of responsible tourism marketing, focusing on how it caters not only to the visitors but also to the culture, people, and picturesque locations that define the uniqueness of North Carolina. Together with Witt, we unveil how Visit NC collaborates with local tourism offices to spotlight the state’s breathtaking landscapes and addresses the importance of strategically timing visits to help local communities thrive.Unearth North Carolina's cultural heritage and natural attractions as we dance through the lively food scenes in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Groove along to the melodious music scene, absorb the timeless moonshine and NASCAR culture, and immerse yourself in the unmatched beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Smokies, Blue Ridge, and High Country mountains. Get ready to be swept off your feet as we delve into the heart and soul of North Carolina.Facing the challenges head-on, we discuss the potential hurdles that tourism in North Carolina may encounter. Witt talks about the innovative solutions Visit North Carolina provides to mitigate these challenges, including the Outdoor NC program. This initiative encourages exploration of less touristy areas, promoting rural community sustainability while avoiding overcrowding. Finally, get a peep into Visit North Carolina's interactive website, a tool that allows you to personalize your North Carolina experience. Plug in your earphones, open your hearts, and prepare to fall in love with the appeal and spirit of North Carolina.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEVisit NCEconomic Development Partnership of North CarolinaOutdoor Economy ConferenceCherokee, North Carolina 0:00 Exploring North Carolina's Tourism and Beauty11:06 Explore NC's Cultural Heritage and Beauty17:46 Tourism Challenges in North Carolina23:48 North Carolina's Beauty and Appeal35:05 Encouraging Engagement and Promotion of PodcastMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

Get ready to get inspired! Meet our guest for today, Matt Godfrey, the Executive Director of the Outdoor Business Alliance, a man who wears many hats - advocate, business leader, educator, and much more. Matt is no stranger to the outdoor industry, he's been instrumental in shaping it from his early days as a founding board member of the Outdoor Business Alliance. Experience his journey as we walk through the different stages of his career; from his time at the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly and corporate America, to his role in a startup.The Outdoor Business Alliance has come a long way from being a loosely-knit group of outdoor gear manufacturers - it's now a platform, a family for the outdoor industry. Discover how this organization creates opportunities for members to network, share resources, ideas, and more. Learn about the collaboration that has helped Western North Carolina become the outdoor gear hub of the East. Matt and I also discuss the benefits that come with being a member of the Outdoor Business Alliance, such as networking socials, educational opportunities, and promotion on their website and social media.But what role does the Outdoor Business Alliance play in the greater ecosystem of the outdoor industry? Uncover how the alliance creates a platform for businesses to connect and collaborate, and how it provides access to resources, programs, and networking opportunities. We talk about the partners the alliance works with, like the Waypoint Accelerator program and Mountain Bizworks, and how they support its members and the outdoor industry in Western North Carolina. Join us as we celebrate the passion and love that both Matt and I have for the industry and the community we proudly serve. Trust me, you wouldn't want to miss out on this insightful conversation.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEOutdoor Business AllianceMade X MountainsWaypoint Accelerator(Deadline for next Cohort is October 12. First Session November 2)Mountain BizworksOutdoor Economy ConferenceEconomic Development Partnership of North CarolinaOutdoor Recreation in North CarolinaMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

With unmatched natural assets and a community intimately engaged in the outdoors, Western North Carolina is the outdoor industry hub of the east, and in 2021 a campaign was launched to develop a regional brand that celebrates and grows the outdoor industry across 24 counties. Today, that campaign has blossomed into a full blown partnership called MADE X MTNS (Made by Mountains). In this episode I had the privilege of sitting down with Amy Allison, Partnership Director, to talk about how MADE X MTNS is working to expand the outdoor industry and economy across North Carolina’s Appalachian region.The Partnership includes Outdoor Business Alliance of WNC, Mountain BizWorks, and the NC Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, as well as numerous stakeholders including regional universities, rural communities, economic development, and conservation organizations. Mentioned In This EpisodeMADE X MTNSOutdoor Business AllianceENONC Outdoor Recreation Industry OfficeSylvan SportMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

North Carolina is undeniably home to the best traditional rock climbing in the South. From beginners' routes to multi-pitch thrillers, North Carolina has it all, including the tallest rock face on the East Coast.In this episode I sit down with one of Fox Mountin’s Guides, Forrest Stavish. He started climbing in 2004 after being introduced to bouldering at Rumbling Bald, NC, and not long after that bouldering trip, he got his first taste of exposure on Table Rock in the Linville Gorge. Since then, Forrest has climbed extensively in North Carolina and Tennessee and has traveled to places like Red Rock and Joshua Tree as well as the alpine of the North Cascades.We’ll cover all of this, plus Forrest’s volunteer work with his local fire department for the past six years and his experience as a member of the Appalachian Mountain Rescue Team and Mountain Rescue Technician for NC Emergency Management. Regardless of whether you are a climber, interested in getting into climbing, or just love stories of how these mountains have shaped people and helped make them who they are, there is a little something for everyone in this episode.SHOW NOTES LINKSFox Mountain Guides & Climbing School; Facebook and WebsiteMcHone Personal TrainingNorth Carolina Emergency Management American Mountain Guides AssociationTransylvania County RescueHenderson County RescueBuncombe County RescueMental & Physical Benefits of ClimbingClimber NewsTime MagazineMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

Nestled between Little and Big Sandy Mush Balds, at an elevation of over 5,000 feet above sea level, lies one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited in the Blue Ridge Mountains; The Cabins at Sandy Mush Bald, an off-grid and authentic Appalachian experience, located on 500 private acres atop the Newfound Mountains in Western North Carolina.The Cabins at Sandy Mush started as a dream of the founder, John “Doc” Adler who longed to create a hike-in facility that provided a sense of hard-earned awe just like he found on the Appalachian Trail and at other infamous hike-in facilities. “Doc” passed away a couple of years ago, but his spirit and the splendor of this place lives on through his niece, Lisa Adler, who I had the distinct pleasure to sit down with in this episode. I was only on the mountain for a few hours, but it stirred something deep in my soul, and a longing to return.LINKS:The Cabins at Sandy Mush BaldHipcampSouthern Highlands ConservancyOutdoor Business AllianceMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

So, what do you get when a talented photographer who creates one of a kind visual content for companies like Patagonia, Land Rover, Our State, and numerous Tourism Authorities - partners with an award-winning creative director who develops designs and messages for organizations like Explore Brevard, Biltmore Estate, Earth Fare and a broad range of tourism, outdoor adventure nonprofits and cultural heritage clients? Answer: A pretty RAD company making its mark in WNC’s outdoor community. That company is The Uproar Concept.In this episode I sit down with Derek DiLuzio and Nathan Jordan from Uproar to talk about their shared vision to create, reimagine how creative content is crafted, celebrate the great outdoors, build authentic connections, and develop a more sustainable future.From companies like SylvanSport, Headwaters Outfitters Outdoor Adventures, Beech Mountain, and G5 Collective, to venues like Nantahala Outdoor Center, to events like Outdoors For All - Old Fort, the Uproar Concept has made its mark creating quality, attention-commanding work, while being active and impactful participants in WNC’s outdoor community.We talk about their shared vision to provide exceptional creative deliverables capable of elevating any brand, and their belief in working collaboratively with their clients to create disturbances in the market that command attention and achieve results.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEBeech MountainLeave No TraceMADE X MTNSVisit NCHeadwaters OutfittersGorges State ParkG5 CollectiveExplore BrevardOur StateMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

In this episode I sit down with very special guests Layla & Stacey Hildenbran, and Jay Hardwig from BRAVO which is Blue Ridge Adventures – Vision Optional, whose mission is To provide outdoor enrichment programsto youth with blindness and low vision. This is an especially fun episode for me because I have been hearing about Layla’s story since my wife taught her in first grade six years ago. She is a super special girl who is completely blind…and pursues life full on. And it’s not by accident. Her parents, Stacey and Jason have always taken the approach that they didn’t want to limit Layla, but instead wanted her to thrive and experience as much as she possibly could in her life. The outdoors has always been a draw for their family, and they’ve made adventure a priority in their lives. Sadly, there is a shortage of quality programs for students with visual impairments, particularly in the area of outdoor experiential education.  Multiple studies have confirmed that students with visual impairments are more likely to be less active, less healthy, and less socially engaged than their sighted peers. These discrepancies have become more pronounced following the Covid pandemic.So, when the camp program that Layla had been participating changed their focus and direction in the fall of 2022, Jay, Stacey and others knew what they had to do. They started the non-profit BRAVO program to continue bringing blind and visually impaired students into the outdoors so they too can experience the positive impact on their mental and physical wellbeing, and improve symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEhttps://www.blueridgebravo.org/https://wildwaterrafting.com/https://noc.com/Mike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

Pat Keller is known for his waterfall first descents as well as being a repeat winner of the coveted Green Race, winning the Great Falls Race and the inaugural Rey del Rio Waterfall World Championships in Mexico where he battled the world’s top boaters over three back-to-back waterfalls—a 25-footer, a 55-footer and a 35-footer.  Accolades also include being a two-time Teva Mountain Games winner and the first Descents as I just mentioned including: Toxaway Falls, Linville Falls, Valser Rhein Falls, Cane Creek Falls, Wolf Creek Falls, and Ozone Falls.  All these accomplishments are super impressive, but what also stands out to me is Pat’s passion, zeal for life, and his constant need to set goals and push himself in whatever he does. Although Pat now considers himself a retired pro-athlete, the quest for finding outdoor pursuits where he can totally immerse himself and find that flow state is as strong as ever. He may spend more time rallying around the endless network of gravel roads on his motorcycle these days, but he admits there are more whitewater kayaking missions on the horizon. In this episode, Pat drops by the studio and we unpack all of this. We also talk about how being born and raised in the western North Carolina mountains has truly shaped him and helped develop his passions. Mentioned In This EpisodeLiquid LogicDaggerGreen RaceTAT TransAmerica TrailDagger Green BoatBlindfold Run of Green RiverMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

Jason Bowman grew up in the mountains of Southwestern Virginia chasing brook trout and working on trucks. Today he lives in Brevard, N.C. and still chases trout and works on trucks. The only difference today is that he’s a little bit older, LIVING with Stage 4 prostate cancer, a USMC Veteran, family man, business owner and creator in the outdoor gear space, and he spends as much time on the coast surfing as he does fishing the local rivers these days. Oh, and the trucks he works at O.G.R.E. on aren’t the everyday, run of the mill trucks. They are purpose-built tools designed to get adventurers to their favorite river, trail, or hunting spot.In this episode Jason stops by the studio and we unpack a lot. We talk about life, family, business building, living life on purpose, and life’s perspective through the lens of cancer. We also talk about the effect of the outdoors on our physical and mental well-being, and the importance of making play and getting outside an integral part of our lives.Be sure to check out:O.G.R.E https://www.ogreoutdoors.com/Warrior Surf https://www.warriorsurf.org/Outdoor Gear Builders of WNC https://www.outdoorgearbuilders.com/Mountain BizWorks https://www.mountainbizworks.org/Carbon TV: OGRE Outdoors https://www.carbontv.com/shows/ogre-outdoors/Brevard, NC https://explorebrevard.com/TC Webb https://www.thomascwebb.com/Mental Health America https://www.mhanational.org/mental-health-monthMike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal

The NC Year of the Trail celebrates North Carolina’s vast and diverse collection of trails, greenways, and blueways which showcase its diverse landscapes – grand mountain vistas, quiet rivers, vibrant urban greenways, coastal forests, and the rolling hills of the piedmont.These trails not only help make NC a healthier, more accessible, and fun place to live, they also strengthen the economy in a big way. You see, the outdoor recreation industry in NC has an economic impact of over 28 billion dollars and provides over 260,000 jobs in the state. Trails are the cornerstone of the industry, and all of this is a large part of why NC is the Great Trails State. Historically, the trail networks that make this all possible have rarely been part of the mainstream public discussion, but in 2023, that will change.In this episode I sit down with Palmer McIntyre, NC Year of the Trail Director, and Beth Heile, a key voice and advocate on the planning committee, to unpack and chat about all things NC Year of the Trail. We talk about the historic $29.5 Million investment for State Trails, and the vision behind the largest statewide celebration of trails and outdoor recreation in the Old States history.We also talk about how the NC Year of the Trail is meant to inspire people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to try trails, to demonstrate the importance of trails to elected officials, boost outdoor recreation tourism across the state through Year of the Trail events in all 100 counties, promote safe and responsible use of trails, with the Outdoor NC Principles, and to advance diversity and inclusion on trails.DISCOVER MOREGreat Trails NCGreat Trails State CoalitionNC Year of the Trail EventsPBS NC NC WeekendState Employees Credit UnionNC Department of Natural and Cultural ResourcesVisit NCThe Great Trails State Coalition acknowledges and greatly appreciates the leadership of:Representative Dean Arp, R-69 (Union), Senior Chairman of the House Appropriations CommitteeRepresentative Hugh Blackwell, R-86 (Burke),Representative Mike Clampitt, R-119 (Haywood, Jackson, Swain)Representative Erin Pare, R-37 (Wake)This group took the lead on this funding effort with help from many other members of the House, Senator Brent Jackson, and Governor Roy Cooper.Mike AndressHost, Exploration Local828-551-9065mike@explorationlocal.comPodcast WebsiteFacebookInstagram: explorationlocal