Welcome back to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, we're joined by Dr. Wenfei Tong, a conservationist, wildlife biologist, writer, nature photographer, artist, and educator. Wenfei holds a PhD in evolutionary biology from Harvard University and serves as the science editor at Cornell University. In this conversation, she shares her journey through birding, nature, and science communication—including her work at Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Conservation Media unit, where she helps create impactful conservation stories.

We dive into Wenfei’s passion for birds, the inspiration behind her books like "Bird Love" and "Understanding Bird Behavior," and how observing bird behavior offers insights into nature, human relationships, and personal growth. Dr. Tong discusses how birds and their songs connect her to places all over the world, from Singapore to upstate New York, and how simple acts of slowing down, listening, and appreciating birdlife can create meaningful moments for everyone.

Along the way, you’ll hear stories about her travels, the role of creativity and family in her life, and the power of technology—like apps Merlin and eBird—to foster greater stewardship and appreciation of the outdoors.

DISCUSSION

00:00 "Bird Love with Dr. Tong"

04:59 Snowfall, Silence, and Cardinals

09:45 "Birds Root Me Everywhere"

19:11 "Understanding Behavior Through Evolution"

23:04 "Perspective Through Bird Love"

25:54 "Connecting Through Bird Behavior."

29:34 "Merlin: Democratizing Bird Appreciation."

31:24 eBird: Giving Back to Birds

36:02 "Bird Watching Over Photography."

43:44 Birds as Memory Placeholders

46:10 Ephemeral Beauty in Nature

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Wenfei and her work, visit her portfolio site at https://www.wenfeitong.com/ and Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/wenfei.tong/

Merlin Bird ID: https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/

NEXT STEPS

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

KEYWORDS

Wenfei Tong, Bird Love, Understanding Bird Behavior, Merlin Bird ID, Red Cliffs Audubon, Howard Fox, Outdoor Adventure Series

#WenfeiTong #BirdLove #UnderstandingBirdBehavior #MerlinBirdID #RedCliffsAudubon #HowardFox #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Route 66 Centennial: Inside the Magic of the Bagdad Café - Interview with Karla Claus, Jackie McKay, and Mark Bradley.

In this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! We're back at the iconic Bagdad Café in Newberry Springs, California, right off the historic Route 66—also known as the Mother Road—celebrating its 100th anniversary. We're joined by Karla Claus (aka "Mrs. Princess Route 66"), Jackie McKay, a new Mojave National Preserve resident, and Mark Bradley, one of the driving forces behind the cafe.

You'll hear heartwarming stories about the magic and serendipity that bring people to the Bagdad Café, the vibrant local community, and the special role the cafe plays for both locals and travelers from around the world. You’ll hear about the friendships that have formed, the famous Wonderhussey’s impact, Andrea Pruett’s legacy, and how Route 66 continues to inspire visitors with its unique spirit, and the mysterious connections that bring the right people together at the right time, and why so many European travelers have a special place in their hearts for the Bagdad Café.

LEARN MORE

To learn about Newberry Springs, CA, the Route 66 Big Birthday Bash, the Pistachio Festival, and much more, visit the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce at https://newberryspringschamber.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewberrySpringsChamber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbsp_chamberofcommerce/

The Mother Road e-Newsletter: https://motherroadnewsletter.com/newsletter/

The World Famous Historical Bagdad Café: https://bagdad-cafe-usa.com/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/30749046041

IMDB | Bagdad Café: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095801/

Wonderhussy YouTube Episdes:

Spring 2025 Meetup and Party at the Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs on Old Route 66: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ag6-sncdyU

Return to the Bagdad Cafe: Visiting With Miss Andrea Pruett and Her Iconic Route 66 Roadside Diner: https://youtu.be/f1mrnH6rCdY?si=tL5Ibt_cWXL-k3pT

NEXT STEPS

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

KEYWORDS

Bagdad Café, Newberry Springs, Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Route 66 Centennial, Wonderhussy, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#BagdadCafé #NewberrySprings #NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #Route66Centennial #Wonderhussy #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Visit Lake Tahoe: Four-Season Playground, Outdoor Adventures, Events, and Sustainability Initiatives.

Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, where we dive into the people, places, and organizations committed to making the outdoors accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable. In this episode, we're joined by Ryn Muat, Communications and PR Manager for Visit Lake Tahoe. Together, we unpack what makes Lake Tahoe a truly unique, bi-state destination nestled between California and Nevada—a place that seamlessly blends stunning natural beauty, vibrant outdoor activities, and a spirit of collaboration across counties and organizations.

Ryn shares everything from the revamped Caesars Republic resort to hidden gems like Zephyr Cove’s rustic cabins, and discusses thoughtful stewardship initiatives that keep Lake Tahoe pristine and accessible. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer, a foodie seeking great coffee, someone planning a wedding, or simply looking for your next weekend getaway, this episode offers an insider’s perspective on how to experience Lake Tahoe’s magic.

Plus, Ryn reveals tips for career seekers interested in destination marketing, shares favorite outdoor activities, and introduces listeners to Visit Lake Tahoe’s smart AI travel assistant and accessibility resources. Tune in and discover why Lake Tahoe is not just a four-season destination, but a place where awe, connection, and conservation go hand-in-hand.

00:00 Lake Tahoe Bi-State Tourism

08:06 Lodging and Experiences for Travelers

10:52 "Downtown Fun for All Ages"

13:27 "Outdoor Activities for Relaxation"

18:54 Accessibility and Community Improvement Initiatives

21:31 Lake Tahoe Conservation Efforts

25:07 Hot Air Balloon & Lodging Tips

30:16 Tahoe Events & Activities Calendar

33:09 Mobility & Accessibility Highlights

36:31 Community Ambassadors and Insights

38:58 "Nature-Driven Coaching and Wellness."

40:34 "Awe-Inspired Docuseries Launching Soon."

LEARN MORE

To learn more about the Visit Lake Tahoe, visit their website at https://visitlaketahoe.com/ or on these social sites:

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

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

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

NEXT STEPS

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

KEYWORDS

Ryn Muat, Visit Lake Tahoe, Travel Nevada, Nevada Territories,
Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#RynMuat #VisitLakeTahoe, #TravelNevada #NevadaTerritories #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Route 66 Centennial: Bagdad Cafe' Interview with Mark Bradley. Remembering ‘desert icon’ Andrea Pruett.

In this heartfelt episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're back in Newberry Springs, California, for a very special conversation inside the iconic Bagdad Cafe'. Joined by Mark Bradley, a long-time desert resident and someone deeply connected to the cafe, Howard and Mark explore the magic and allure that draws so many—especially travelers from France—to this legendary Route 66 stop.

Mark reflects on the vibrant history of the Bagdad Cafe' and the profound impact of its recently departed owner, Andrea Pruett. Mark opens up about his personal journey, the unique energy of the desert, and what makes the cafe a place where only "the good" seem to walk through the door. Whether you’re a fan of roadside Americana, interested in hidden gems off the beaten path, or simply drawn to stories of community and connection, this episode promises a touching glimpse into a place—and people—that mean so much to so many.

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Newberry Springs, CA, the Route 66 Big Birthday Bash, the Pistachio Festival, and much more, visit the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce at https://newberryspringschamber.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewberrySpringsChamber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbsp_chamberofcommerce/

The Mother Road e-Newsletter: https://motherroadnewsletter.com/newsletter/

The World Famous Historical Bagdad Cafe: https://bagdad-cafe-usa.com/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/30749046041

IMDB | Bagdad Cafe: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095801/

Wonderhussy YouTube Episdes:

Spring 2025 Meetup and Party at the Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs on Old Route 66: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ag6-sncdyU

Return to the Bagdad Cafe: Visiting With Miss Andrea Pruett and Her Iconic Route 66 Roadside Diner: https://youtu.be/f1mrnH6rCdY?si=tL5Ibt_cWXL-k3pT

NEXT STEPS

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

KEYWORDS

Mark Bradley, Andrea Pruett, Bagdad Cafe', Newberry Springs, Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Route 66 Centennial, Wonderhussy, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#MarkBradley #AndreaPruett #BagdadCafe' #NewberrySprings #NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #Route66Centennial #Wonderhussy #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

CREDITS

Banner Photo: Howard Fox

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Route 66 Centennial: Bagdad Cafe Interview with John Wease. Discovering Newberry Springs - Community, Jam-Making, Festivals, and Desert Life.

Welcome back to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series. In this episode, recorded from the Historic Bagdad Cafe in Newberry Springs, California, a gem nestled right along the iconic Route 66, we're joined by longtime resident and community leader John Wease, who shares his deep-rooted connection to this unique desert community.

You'll hear how John and his wife have woven themselves into the fabric of Newberry Springs, from running the community garden club and participating in local festivals, to launching their own cottage business focused on homemade jams and market gardening. Together, Howard and John explore the charm, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit that define Newberry Springs—celebrating everything from its starlit skies and annual events to the warm, rural hospitality that keeps Route 66 adventurers coming back.

Whether you’re passionate about small-town community life, classic road trips, or simply searching for your next outdoor adventure, this episode will inspire you to see Newberry Springs through the eyes of those who call it home. So grab a good cup of coffee, settle in, and join us as we celebrate the history, people, and magic of Newberry Spring, and The Mother Road, Route 66!

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Newberry Springs, CA, the Route 66
Big Birthday Bash, the Pistachio Festival, and much more, visit the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce at https://newberryspringschamber.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewberrySpringsChamber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbsp_chamberofcommerce/

The Mother Road e-Newsletter: https://motherroadnewsletter.com/newsletter/

The World Famous Historical Bagdad Cafe: https://bagdad-cafe-usa.com/

IMDB | Bagdad Cafe: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095801/

NEXT STEPS

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

KEYWORDS

John Wease, Newberry Springs, Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Route 66 Centennial, Bagdad Cafe, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#JohnWease #NewberrySprings #NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #Route66Centennial #BagdadCafe #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In this special episode, host Howard Fox takes us on a journey to Newberry Springs, California, home of the legendary Bagdad Cafe and a true gem along historic Route 66.

Recording from the heart of the Mother Road, Howard Fox sits down with Jim Conkle—affectionately known by many as the “Mayor of Route 66”—to dive into the unique history and spirit of this iconic highway.

You’ll hear stories about Jim’s decades-long connection to Route 66, including travels dating back to 1949, his involvement in saving and promoting the road, and the way Route 66 has become a tapestry of fascinating people and memories. Together, they explore the power of community, the nostalgia that draws travelers from around the world, and why, for so many, Route 66 is more than a road—it’s a family.

Whether you’re a lifelong roadie, a first-time visitor, or someone simply curious about what makes America’s most famous highway so magical, this episode is packed with heartfelt stories and insights that showcase why Route 66 and places like the Historic Bagdad Cafe remain legendary stops on the American adventure map. So buckle up and get ready to explore the people and places that keep the Mother Road alive!

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Newberry Springs, CA, the Route 66
Big Birthday Bash, the Pistachio Festival, and much more, visit the Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce at https://newberryspringschamber.com/ or on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewberrySpringsChamber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nbsp_chamberofcommerce/

The Mother Road e-Newsletter: https://motherroadnewsletter.com/newsletter/

The World Famous Historical Bagdad Cafe: https://bagdad-cafe-usa.com/

IMDB | Bagdad Cafe: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095801/

NEXT STEPS

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

KEYWORDS

Jim Conkle, Newberry Springs, Newberry Springs Chamber of Commerce, Route 66 Centennial, Bagdad Cafe, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#JimConkle #NewberrySprings #NewberrySpringsChamberofCommerce #Route66Centennial #BagdadCafe #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

CREDITS

Banner Photo: Howard Fox

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Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In this episode, host Howard Fox is joined by Paul Whitten, Nashville historian, military veteran, and founder of Nashville Adventures. Paul’s passion for history, storytelling, and public engagement led him to create a unique tour company that brings the rich and vibrant history of Music City to life, right where it happened.

Together, they discuss why Nashville’s story is best told outdoors, from its founding along the Cumberland River to its pivotal moments in American music and Civil War history. Paul shares how his military background and love of history inspired him to launch Nashville Adventures, offering guests opportunities to experience the city through walking tours, ghost tours, Civil War hikes, coffee crawls, and innovative XR (extended reality) experiences.

Whether you’re a history buff, music lover, or outdoor enthusiast, this episode will give you unique insights into Nashville’s past and present, plus ideas for your next urban adventure. So grab your walking shoes and a cup of coffee, and get ready to explore Music City in a way you’ve never seen before.

DISCUSSION

00:00 Exploring Nashville

06:12 "Birthplace of Grand Ole Opry"

09:07 "Railroads, Blues, and Gentrification"

15:10 Preparing for Nashville Endeavor

19:19 Nashville Tours: History & Adventure

22:03 "Nashville's River: A Historic Hub"

26:27 XR Tour: Frozen River History

28:12 Military Lessons for Business Success

31:15 "Cemeteries and Their History."

35:54 "Connecting History Through Music."

41:36 Nashville Adventures: Explore History

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Paul and Nashville Adventures, visit his website at https://www.nashvilleadventures.com/ and his social sites:

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

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nashville-adventures

NEXT STEPS

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

KEYWORDS

Paul Whitten, Nashville Adventures, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview

#PaulWhitten #NashvilleAdventures #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview

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Welcome to another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series! Today, we’re exploring the intersection of food, travel, and the great outdoors with our guest, Emmanuel Laroche—a food and travel writer, VP of marketing and sensory consumer insights in the food industry, host of the Flavors Unknown podcast, and author of "Conversations Behind the Kitchen Door." Emmanuel joins us to discuss his latest book, "A Taste of Madagascar: Culinary Riches of the Red Island," where he reveals the secrets behind Madagascar’s renowned vanilla, unique spices, caviar, and local ingredients.

Throughout the conversation, you’ll learn about Emmanuel's roots in France, his journey in the food industry, and his travels across the globe. We explore the incredible culture, food origins, and human stories that define Madagascar, from the laborious process behind vanilla cultivation to the unexpected discovery of caviar farms and the significance of hunchback cattle to local tribes.

Whether you’re a foodie, adventurer, or someone curious about how the world’s rarest flavors make it to your kitchen, this episode will transport you to Madagascar’s vibrant landscapes and introduce you to the people who bring these culinary treasures to life. Get ready for fascinating insights, hints of recipes, and a renewed appreciation for the origins of the foods we often take for granted.

DISCUSSION

06:15 Natural Flavor Extraction Industry

09:32 "Changed Perspective on Coffee Beans"

12:39 "Vanilla Journey to Innovation"

13:50 Madagascar’s Unique Culinary Treasures

17:06 Caviar Farming and Sturgeon Habitats

23:22 Vanilla's Global Journey

25:38 Celebrating Ingredients of Madagascar

27:31 Madagascar Vanilla: Exported, Not Used

31:26 Sacrificial Cattle Tradition Insight

35:14 "Slowing Down in Madagascar."

39:11 Baobab Alley Adventure

44:42 Madagascar: Beyond Vanilla's Legacy

49:51 A Taste of Madagascar

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Emmanuel and his book, A Taste of Madagascar: Culinary Riches of the Red Island, visit his website at http://atasteofmadagascar.com/ and his social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emmanuel.laroche.92

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

Flavors Unknown Podcast: https://flavorsunknown.com

NEXT STEPS

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

KEYWORDS

Emmanuel Laroche, A Taste of Madagascar, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast Interview, PodMatch

#EmmanuelLaroche #ATasteofMadagascar #Madagascar #OutdoorAdventureSeries #PodcastInterview #PodMatch

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