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 v ..read more

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 ..read more

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 Ch ..read more

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 th ..read more

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 engin ..read more

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 whic ..read more

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 touri ..read more

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 belon ..read more

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 ..read more

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 bein ..read more