Episodes

Send us a text As outdoor tourism continues to grow, how can mountain communities plan with intention—not just for visitors, but for the residents, businesses, and natural spaces that make them unique? In this episode of Exploration Local, I sit down with Corrina Ruffieux, Executive Director of Vis…

Send us a text Trail by trail, North Carolina is weaving a network of connections that transforms how we move, gather, and experience our communities. The Ecusta Trail stands as a prime example—a visionary 20-mile rail-to-trail corridor that will soon link Hendersonville to Brevard along a historic…

Send us a text I'm redefining what adventure means after discovering the joy of exploring greenways and rail trails. From Colorado's Aspen-lined paths to Kentucky's riverside greenways, these accessible trails have transforme...

Send us a text Every region has its stories, but few places weave storytelling into their cultural fabric quite like Appalachia. Bob Peck, the visionary behind Mountainwater Films , has dedicated himself to capturing these na...

Send us a text What if the unexpected storm of the century could teach us about resilience and community strength? Join us for an extraordinary conversation with Russ Towers, the inspiring co-founder of Second Gear , as he re...

Send us a text Come along with me as I embark on a snowy adventure at the newly revamped Hatley Pointe Ski Resort in Western North Carolina. Set against a picturesque winter backdrop, we explore this mountain gem, which has b...

Send us a text Join us for an insightful and inspiring journey into the heart of Western North Carolina as we explore the region's remarkable resilience following the devastation of Hurricane Helene. In this episode, we speak...

Send us a text What happens when burnout from the film industry's hectic pace becomes a catalyst for an eco-entrepreneurial journey? Join us for an insightful conversation with Shelby Treichler, the creative force behind Cact...

Send us a text What if you could transform a dream into reality amidst the chaos of a global pandemic? Hartwell Carson did just that, and we're here to share his journey of turning a piece of family land into the Cold Spring ...

Send us a text In this episode we’re going to take a deep dive into the world of mountain biking with Josh Whitmore, owner and head coach of Mountain Bike Skills Factory. Hear Josh's inspiring journey from his roots in Brevar...

Send us a Text Message. For two decades, SylvanSport has been at the forefront of transforming outdoor adventures, redefining what it means to camp and explore the great outdoors. Founded by visionary Tom Dempsey, SylvanSport...

Send us a Text Message. Can green infrastructure save our rivers? Join us as we explore the French Broad River's transformation with Renee Fortner, Watershed Resources Manager at RiverLink . Discover RiverLink’s efforts in tu...

Send us a Text Message. My daughter takes on the role of interviewer, delving into the adventures that shaped my love for nature. From family trips across Europe in a converted Volkswagen van to the influence of my parents' a...

Send us a Text Message. Ever wondered how adventure can transform lives? Join us as we chat with Adam Combs, the passionate co-founder of Waypoint Adventure . Adam shares the remarkable journey of Waypoint in making outdoor ...

Send us a Text Message. When Tera Pruett took her first strides on a winding trail, little did she know that each step was a journey away from the shadows of depression and toward a life of empowerment and community. On our l...

The French Broad is home to more than 40 access points and 20 riverside campsites managed by federal, state, and local governments; non-profits; businesses and volunteers. In this episode I sit down with Jack Henderson from M...

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...

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, hi...

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 L...

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 beginnin...

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, c...

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 it...

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 U...

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...