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Backyard Road Trips

Backyard Road Trips

Written by: Zack Lamothe and Jim Wheeler
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Once an avid traveler, writer Zack Lamothe's faraway travel dreams were put on hold as he became a father in 2015. Since then, he's focused on traveling in his own backyard. First a website, and now a podcast where cohosts and New Englanders, Zack and Jim Wheeler talk hiking trails, family-friendly activities, places they enjoy, craft beer and whatever else they desire to. (Along with plenty of harebrained banter). Read more at www.backyardroadtrips.comZack Lamothe and Jim Wheeler Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • Season 7, Episode 6: Fran Kefalas and Regan Miner from The Last Green Valley
    Jun 1 2026

    Please welcome Fran Kefalas and Regan Miner to the show! Fran is the executive director of The Last Green Valley, and Regan is the Development Director. TLGV is a national heritage corridor located in northeastern Connecticut and south-central Massachusetts. The duo speaks to us about the latest goings-on, including the opening of their new headquarters. Fran and Regan explain what The Last Green Valley has to offer and what events to look forward to in the upcoming year.

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    53 mins
  • Season 7, Episode 5- Chatting with Lana Wilhelm
    May 14 2026

    For National Stroke Awareness Month, we shine a spotlight on Lana Wilhelm—a nurse, author, caregiver, and advocate. After her husband suffered a sudden, major stroke, Lana's life shifted from medical professional to full-time caregiver, a role she found arduous and lonely.

    Lana, founder of the Stroke Caregiver Connection, runs support groups and has met with over 2,000 caregivers, offering understanding for the tumultuous path of providing constant care. She’ll speak about navigating burnout, the emotional journey from anger and grief, and the key mindset shift that allows caregivers and survivors to focus on what they can still do.

    In this inspiring conversation, Lana shares how she and her husband have adapted their lives as travelers, providing actionable tips for planning trips after a major medical event, and proving that enjoyable adventures are still possible. Tune in for an honest look at life after a stroke and how fellowship, humor, and a change in perspective can transform the quality of life for both survivors and caregivers

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    39 mins
  • Season 7, Episode 4: Cade Martin
    May 1 2026

    Jim and Zack chat with photographer Cade Martin. From photographing Mother Theresa and Johnny Cash to assignments all over the world, Cade's story is an interesting one for sure. Cade delves into one project that has been especially important to him. The Wheelchair Mafia, a group of 44 dogs that are fitted with wheelchairs and are part of the larger The Man Who Rescues Dogs, a sanctuary for stray and disabled dogs in Thailand. Cade worked with his whole family to make this film about the Wheelchair Mafia.

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    1 hr and 1 min
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