Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, we’re heading north to explore the beauty, history, and welcoming spirit of the Carson Valley communities (Genoa, Minden, Gardnerville, and Topaz Lake) in Nevada. We're joined by Keith Lewis, Executive Director of Visit Carson Valley, and Josh Rudelbach, Destination Marketing and Data Strategist, for an insider’s look at the region that sits just 45 miles south of Reno and 15 miles east of Lake Tahoe.

Together, Keith and Josh answer the big question: Why should visitors make Carson Valley a must-stop on their Nevada adventure? Discover four charming communities, unique outdoor activities like hiking, wild horse tours, and world-class glider soaring, plus a vibrant culinary scene rooted in Basque culture. Keith and Josh share how their backgrounds in education, analytics, and marketing help shape Carson Valley’s visitor experience, and give us a tour of their innovative website—packed with planning resources, digital passports, and AI-powered itinerary tools.

Whether you’re a family looking to slow down, an outdoor enthusiast chasing new trails, or a traveler searching for that perfect cup of coffee, this episode is your guide to everything Carson Valley has to offer. So grab your wool sweater (just in case), sit back, and join us for an inspiring journey through Northern Nevada’s hidden gem!

DISCUSSION

00:00 "Exploring Nevada with Visit Carson Valley"

07:53 Historic Nevada Towns & Tourism

12:26 "Engaging Personas for Visitor Marketing"

15:47 "AI-Powered Travel Itinerary Assistance"

18:54 "Tourism Matters: Local Impact"

21:37 "AI Travel Guide: Ask Carson"

25:29 "Travel Nevada Supports Rural Marketing."

29:28 Digital Passports for Visitor Experiences

32:07 "Carson Valley Events Preview."

35:18 Bentley Distillery Revival in Minden

39:08 "Carson Valley Christmas Success."

40:26 "The Valley's Unique Appeal."

LEARN MORE

To learn more about the Carson Valley Region, visit their website at https://visitcarsonvalley.org or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcarsonvalley

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitcarsonvalley/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/VisitCarsonValleyNV

Reno-Tahoe Territory: https://renotahoe.com/

KEYWORDS

Visit Carson Valley, Parade of Lights, Reno-Tahoe Territory, Travel Nevada, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#VisitCarsonValley #WhyCV #RenoTahoeTerritory #TravelNevada #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Welcome to a special year-end edition of the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this reflective episode, host Howard Fox is joined by fellow outdoor enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and podcasters Emanuel Rose and Rick Saez—all proud members of the Outdoor Writers Association of America.

Together, the trio dives deep into the highs and surprises of their 2023 podcasting journeys, swapping stories about new show launches (including Emanuel Rose’s prolific year of recording over 200 episodes across three podcasts), the power of relationships in the outdoor and podcasting worlds, and smart strategies to book—and vet—the perfect guests. Rick Saez discusses rebranding and evolving his show to capture even more exciting stories from the outdoor and adventure travel community, while Howard Fox unveils his plans to further explore the connections between nature, well-being, and outdoor destinations in future episodes.

This episode is packed with behind-the-scenes insights into the podcasting life: from the magic of effective guest outreach (with help from AI tools) to the lessons learned from the occasional misstep. You’ll also hear the hosts’ advice for aspiring podcasters, their candid thoughts on whether the podcasting space is truly saturated, and their dreams of hosting “Podcamp” live from the great outdoors.

Whether you’re a longtime listener, a fellow podcaster, or someone passionate about outdoor adventures and authentic conversations, this episode is an inspiring look back at a year full of growth—and an exciting preview of what’s to come. So pour yourself a coffee, settle in, and join Howard, Rick, and Emanuel for a warm, insightful, and often humorous roundtable to ring in the new year.

DISCUSSION

00:00 "Fluent Frame Content Creation Tool"

05:16 "Listening to Fewer Podcasts"

07:23 "Seeking Guests for Show"

13:07 Guest Screening for Better Podcast

17:11 "Podcasting Goals and AI Insights"

20:48 "Coaching, Nature, and Growth"

24:03 "Podcast Perseverance and Gratitude"

28:10 Podcasting: Oversaturation or Opportunity?

30:17 Start Podcasting for Business Growth

32:20 Podcasts: The Ultimate Equalizer

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Emanuel Rose and his work, Google Emanuel Rose Marketing, or visit his website at https://emanuelrose.com.

To learn more about Rick Saez and his work, Google the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast or visit his website at https://ricksaez.com.

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes. And click here to find me on LinkedIn.

KEYWORDS

Howard Fox, Emanuel Rose, Rick Saez, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview, OWAA, Podmatch

#HowardFox #EmanuelRose #RickSaez #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview, #OWAA #PodMatch

My Favorite Podcast Tools:

1. Production by Descript
2. Hosting Buzzsprout
3. Show Notes by Castmagic
4. Website powered by Podpage
5. Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this episode, we chat with Scott Dahl, the Director of Visit Springfield Illinois, to explore everything that makes Springfield a legendary destination for adventurers and history buffs alike. With 37 years in tourism and a deep love for his “heart of Illinois” hometown, Scott shares insights into Springfield’s vibrant tourism scene, the city’s rich Abraham Lincoln heritage, and its central role along historic Route 66.

From world-class museums and immersive historical sites to expansive bike trails and beautiful parks, Scott Dahl paints a picture of a community where history comes alive, and the outdoors are waiting to be explored. 2026 promises to be a monumental year for Springfield, with celebrations like the Route 66 Centennial, America’s 250th anniversary, and the grand opening of the new Shield Sports Park.

Howard and Scott dive into local culinary treats (including Springfield’s Signature Horseshoe Sandwich, tips for planning your visit, and the best ways to experience everything this legendary destination has to offer—and why Springfield Illinois should be at the top of your travel list this year and beyond!

DISCUSSION

00:00 "Route 66 and 2026 Highlights"

04:29 International Visitors Flock to historic Lincoln sites

07:47 "Escape to Nature Through Biking"

11:04 "Roving Ambassador of Tourism"

15:55 Preparing Springfield for Tourism Influx

17:17 "Saving the Sunrise Donut Sign"

21:44 "Springfield Tour and Website Insights"

25:35 "Discover Springfield: More Than Expected."

30:02 Tourism Ambassador Training Initiative

36:27 Springfield One-Day Itinerary

37:06 "Exploring Abraham Lincoln's Legacy."

42:06 Passion for Hospitality and Travel

47:22 "Springfield Adventures & America 250."

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Springfield, Illinois, visit their website at https://www.visitspringfieldillinois.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisitSpringfield

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitspringfield

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VisitSpringfield

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/springfield-illinois-convention-&-visitors-bureau/

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Visit Springfield Illinois, Lincoln Home NPS, Route 66, Illinois Destinations Association, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#visitspringfield #springfieldil #LincolnHomeNPS #Route66 #IllinoisDestinationsAssociation #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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5. Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch

Impact Destinations: Volunteer and Conservation Adventures with Christopher Hill.

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In today’s episode, we welcome Christopher Hill, the founder of Impact Destinations and Hands Up Holidays. Christopher’s lifelong passion for travel led him to create unique adventures that go far beyond sightseeing—they combine exploration with giving back to communities and supporting wildlife conservation worldwide.

Join us for an inspiring conversation about the power of travel as a force for good, the evolution from volunteer vacations to philanthropic journeys, and the personal stories that drive Christopher’s mission.

DISCUSSION

1. Christopher Hill’s Journey into Impact Travel

• How the travel bug developed with Habitat for Humanity
• Birth and Evolution of Hands Up Holidays

2. Interactions with Local Communities

• Ensuring buy-in from communities by asking what assistance is needed and delivering accordingly

3. Transition to Impact Destinations

• Shift towards more philanthropic, funding-based experiences.

4. Client Profiles and Experience Customization

• Typical clients: luxury travelers, higher net-worth individuals
• Vetting and matching client expectations with tailor-made philanthropic opportunities
• Range: singles, couples, families, intergenerational groups
• Increased interest from families in bonding and educational experiences

5. Destinations and Conservation Projects

• Core focus on wildlife conservation (Africa, Asia, Latin America)
• Opportunities in Australia, French Polynesia, and beyond

6. Tour of the Impact Destinations Website

• Overview of website features: intro video, trip components

7. Business Insights and Client Demographics

• American travelers (90%+ clientele)
• Client motivations: instilling appreciation and privilege, creating bonding moments

8. The Bigger Mission

• Giving travelers unique, transformative experiences
• Fostering engagement with communities and conservation legacy

9. Hope for the Future through Impact Destinations

• Positive changes for both travelers and communities
• Countering the “othering” of people—building cross-cultural understanding

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Impact Destinations, visit their website at https://impactdestinations.com/ or on these social sites.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/impactdestinations

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactdestinations

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Christopher Hill, Impact Destinations, Philanthropic Travel, Howard Fox, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#ChristopherHill #ImpactDestinations #PhilanthropicTravel #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In this episode, we're welcoming back Mitch Miller, an award-winning landscape photographer known for his stunning captures of Joshua Tree National Park and the Sierra Nevada Range. Mitch shares stories from his recent nine-day backpacking adventure to a remote, little-known lake in Sequoia National Park, detailing the grit, planning, and creativity that go into photographing some of the most breathtaking – and challenging locations to reach.

DISCUSSION

1. Adventures and Landscape Photography Expeditions

• Mitch's quest to return to a remote lake in Sequoia National Park

2. Trail Food and Hiking Preparation

• Advance meal planning
• Emphasis on freeze-dried foods and calorie-dense snacks

3. Physical Impact and Trail Logistics

• Weight loss
• Water planning and filtering systems

4. Wildlife and Scenic Experiences

• Memorable wildlife photography moments
• Changing weather conditions and their photographic significance
• Experiencing world-class sunrises

5. Photography Equipment and Techniques

• Decision to rely on the iPhone 16 Pro Max
• Comparison between smartphone and traditional camera capabilities

6. Evolving Approach to Landscape Photography

• Journey from adventure photographer to focused landscape photographer
• Revisiting locations in optimal conditions for improved shots
• Championing the “beauty of reality”: authentic nature photography as opposed to synthetic images

7. Website and Portfolio Showcase

• Live tour of Mitch's website and photographic portfolio
• Discussion of specific images: “Child of the Past,” superbloom, and Joshua Tree landscapes, etc.

8. Upcoming Plans and Future Adventures

• Recent hike to Mount San Jacinto and capturing unique astronomical events
• Plans for future sunset and mountaintop photography

9. Nature Experience and Mental Health

• Enjoyment of dark skies, sunsets, and natural phenomena
• Importance of spending time in nature for well-being

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Mitch and his work, visit his website at https://www.fineearthphotography.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FineEarthPhotography/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fineearthphotography/

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Mitch Miller, Landscape Photography, Fine Earth Photography, Joshua Tree National Park, Sierra Nevada, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#LandscapePhotography #FineEarthPhotography #JoshuaTreeNationalPark #SierraNevada #OutdoorAdventureSeries #Podcast Interview

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In today’s episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're joined by Francisco Silva, a STEAM educator, Solar System Ambassador, and all-around astronomy enthusiast known for his infectious energy, storytelling, and connecting communities with nature, science, and exploration.

Francisco shares his journey from a childhood fascination with the stars—sparked by mythology and a first telescope in Spain—to his work today in Las Vegas, designing engaging and inclusive astronomy experiences for people of all ages.

DISCUSSION

1. Introduction to Francisco Silva

• Roles: STEAM educator, Solar System Ambassador, Outreach Program Coordinator

2. Francisco's Personal Journey into Astronomy

• Early inspiration from his mother
• First telescope experience

3. Challenges and Learning Curves in Pursuing Astronomy

• The difficulty of astronomy before technological advancements
• The need for persistence, passion, and ongoing learning

4. STEAM Education: The Role of Art in Science

• Integrating Art with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

5. Solar System Ambassador Program

• NASA and JPL Solar System Ambassadors Program

6. Volunteering and Programming with the Las Vegas Astronomical Society

• Outreach events (up to 100 per year) and memorable moments engaging children and adults

7. Hands-On Experience at Astronomy Events across Nevada

• Setting up equipment for public events
• Parental support, curiosity, and attending local astronomy clubs/events before purchasing equipment

8. Emotional and Transformative Moments in Outreach

• Children's and adults’ growth and positive energy reactions to celestial observations

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Francisco and his passion for the stars, visit the Las Vegas Astronomical Society website at https://lvastronomy.org/Home.html or on these social sites.

Solar System Ambassador: https://science.nasa.gov/engage/solar-system-ambassadors/

Facebook 1: https://www.facebook.com/groups/81273219287

Facebook 2: https://www.facebook.com/groups/81273219287/user/100009271084728

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lasvegasastronomy

Blog: https://ciberbitacoraoffranciscosilva.blogspot.com/

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Francisco Silva, Las Vegas Astronomical Society, Science Outreach, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#FranciscoSilva #LVAS #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Lincoln County, Nevada: Tourism, Stars, and Dark Sky Preservation at Spring Valley State Park.

On today’s episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're chatting with Marcia Hurd, Executive Director for the Lincoln County Authority of Tourism in Nevada, and Dawn Andone, an Interpretive Ranger with Nevada State Parks. Together, they shine a light on Lincoln County’s remarkable dark sky preservation and awareness initiative—a passionate community effort to have Spring Valley State Park designated as an International Dark Sky Park.

You’ll hear about what makes Lincoln County such a special destination for stargazers, how the process of becoming a certified Dark Sky Park unfolds, and why the region’s unique public lands are being celebrated for both their scenic beauty and stunning night skies.

Marcia Hurd discusses her roles in tourism, while Dawn Andone shares her years of experience bringing nature and astronomy to life for park visitors. We’ll also discuss how these dark-sky efforts are boosting local tourism, the importance of community education on responsible lighting, and the variety of outdoor experiences awaiting visitors—day and night—in Lincoln County’s parks.

DISCUSSION

00:00 "Dark Sky Preservation Initiative"

04:36 "Appreciating Rural Dark Skies"

06:50 Spring Valley Dark Skies Plan

10:09 Reducing Light Pollution Awareness

13:28 "Protecting Wildlife with Dark Skies"

18:03 Lincoln County Dark Skies Experience

20:04 Expanding Astronomy Programs for Communities

26:24 Events Calendar & Holiday Activities

30:15 Spring Valley Park Details

32:32 "Aha Moments and Final Links"

35:36 RV Park Exploration Suggestion

38:09 "Starry Skies and Relaxation"

LEARN MORE

To learn more about the Lincoln County Authority of Tourism and the Dark Sky Park Initiative, visit their website at LincolnCountyNevada.com or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lincolncountynevada

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lincolnnv/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/LincolnCountyNevada

To learn more about the Spring Valley State Park, visit their website at https://parks.nv.gov/parks/spring-valley.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NVStateParks

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Lincoln County Authority of Tourism, Dark Sky Park Initiative, Spring Valley State Park, Nevada State Parks, Travel Nevada, Las Vegas Astronomical Society, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#LincolnCountyAuthorityofTourism #DarkSkyParkInitiative #SpringValleyStatePark #TravelNevada #LVAS #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In this episode, we're chatting with Ken Koskey, Executive Director, and Mackenzie Steagall, Director of PR & Events, from Festival Country Indiana—a destination organization dedicated to showcasing the vibrant communities of Johnson County, just south of Indianapolis.

Festival Country is more than just a collection of towns; it’s a hub for live music, farmers' markets, family-friendly festivals, and inventive outdoor experiences that attract visitors from across the Midwest and beyond. From interactive exhibits at their innovative Visitor Center to unique alleyways transformed into Instagram-worthy destinations and a packed calendar of over 2,500 annual events, Ken Koskey and Mackenzie Stagall share what makes their region a true four-season getaway.

DISCUSSION

00:00 Interactive Downtown Visitor Center

06:20 From Media to Tourism Leadership

09:43 Exploring Festival Country's Unique Alleys

12:28 "Johnson County Visitor Strategy"

14:10 Renaissance Fair & Live Events

18:01 Outdoor Adventures and Nature Preserves

21:18 Indoor Activities and Family Fun

25:25 Year-Round Events & Experiences

28:18 Tour Options: Free or Guided

32:08 Coffeehouses: Breakfast & Drinks

34:21 "Live Music and Local Festivals"

39:52 Eclipse Event Magic

43:23 "Scenic Drive Reflections"

44:59 "Explore Festival Country Indiana"

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Festival Country Indiana in Johnson County, and the services and experiences they promote, visit their website at https://www.festivalcountryindiana.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FestCountryIN/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/festcountryin/

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Festival Country Indiana, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#FestivalCountryIndiana #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

My Favorite Podcast Tools:

1. Production by Descript
2. Hosting Buzzsprout
3. Show Notes by Castmagic
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5. Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch