Highlights of the Carolina Outdoors
Father's Day Adventures
Meet Fries, Virginia: a town that lies along the New River on the border of North Carolina, only 2 hours north of Charlotte. The Fries tourism director, Kevin Combs, joins the Carolina Outdoors to talk about history and outdoor adventures in the town, from tubing to hiking to fly fishing and more.
More Liner Notes and information are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Father's Day Adventures
In honor of Father’s Day, hear Christopher Lawing’s memories of going on adventures with his dad and recommendations for Father’s Day gifts at Jesse Brown’s, from shoes and dress shirts to fly fishing equipment and hiking packs.
More Liner Notes and information are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Meet El Sussi: The New Lifestyle Brand with Founder Lauren Sussi
Meet Lauren Sussi, co-founder of the new lifestyle brand El Sussi. El Sussi combines the flair of the Western mountains with the Carolina coast, creating clothing that can be dressed up or worn everyday. Lauren joins the Carolina Outdoors to chat about the brand, how it started, and his backstory with custom clothes for country music stars.
Join Lauren and co-founder Austin Elliott at Jesse Brown’s for an El Sussi Launch Party on June 12th! Find more information here.
More Liner Notes and information are available online at Jesse Brown’s
The Cap Wiese Fly Fishing Center in Patterson, NC
Alen Baker is a voice that many will recognize on the Carolina Outdoors. He’s a local leader and author in fly fishing, fly tying, conservation, and more. He joins host Bill Bartee to chat about the Patterson School Foundation, the Cap Wiese Fly Fishing Center, and his new book, Southern Fly Tyers: Life Stories of Those Who Tie Flies.
More Liner Notes and information are available online at Jesse Brown’s
The History & Comeback of the Footbag - Part Two
Footbagging, otherwise known as Hacky Sack, is a classic game played with a small bag that’s kicked in the air – and it’s recently been making waves among young people. This ’90s toy has gone viral and is the newest trend. On this edition of the Carolina Outdoors, Appalachian State student Lachlan Collins talks about how hacky sack has become popular on his college campus.
Did you know you can find hacky sacks in-store at Jesse Brown’s? Stop by and get one for yourself before they sell out!
More Liner Notes and information are availa...
The History & Comeback of the Footbag
Footbagging, otherwise known as Hacky Sack, is a classic game played with a small bag that’s kicked in the air – and it’s recently been making waves among young people. This ’90s toy has gone viral and is the newest trend. Bill discusses the comeback of the hacky sack, how people are looking for screen-free activities, and some of its history on this edition of the Carolina Outdoors.
Did you know you can find hacky sacks in-store at Jesse Brown’s? Stop by and get one for yourself before they sell out!
More Liner Notes and...
Fly Fishing Update from Connor Dorsey
Connor Dorsey, local fly fishing guide at Jesse Brown’s, joins the Carolina Outdoors with an update on fly fishing in western North Carolina. Hear the conditions of the water, how the drought has affected fishing, and delayed harvest vs. hatchery-supported streams.
Looking to learn more about fly fishing? Join us for the May Fly Fishing Workshop at Jesse Brown’s, led by Connor! This two-day workshop includes an evening of instruction on theory & tying on May 21st, followed by a Saturday day trip on May 23rd. Find more info HERE!
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Adventure with Create Space Charlotte - Part Two
On the Carolina Outdoors Podcast, adventure includes hiking, fishing, hunting, and bird watching – but it can even be as simple as learning something new! Create Space was founded to give women the opportunity to learn new hobbies and be a part of a community beyond work and home. Founder MaryBeth Simon joins the show in-studio to share how Create Space began, life coaching, and more.
More Liner Notes and information are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Adventure with Create Space Charlotte - Part One
On the Carolina Outdoors Podcast, adventure includes hiking, fishing, hunting, and bird watching – but it can even be as simple as learning something new! Create Space was founded to give women the opportunity to learn new hobbies and be a part of a community beyond work and home. Founder MaryBeth Simon joins the show in-studio to share how Create Space began, life coaching, and more.
More Liner Notes and information are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Turkey Hunting in the South
It’s turkey season in the Southeast, and Carolina outdoorsmen James Buice joins the show to talk all things turkey hunting. Hear his outlook on the turkey population, common mistakes when turkey hunting, and more information on the season on this edition of the Carolina Outdoors!
More Liner Notes and information are available online at Jesse Brown’s
The SouthPark Loop with Founder Drew Thrasher
Beyond the business, shopping, and entertainment of Charlotte’s SouthPark neighborhood, there is a rich history that can be explored along the Loop trail. The SouthPark Loop makes a path past the former site of Billy Graham and Charles Kuralt’s school, a preserved African-American cemetery, and the former headquarters of Eastern Airlines. Hike guide and founder Drew Thrasher joins the Carolina Outdoors to share more about the Loop and the intersection of past, present, and future.
Join us for an urban hike led by Drew Thrasher on Saturday, May 2nd along the Loop trail!
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Earth Day 2026
The Carolina Outdoors celebrates Earth Day on Tuesday, April 22nd. Listeners are reminded of the importance of small, local actions as we celebrate and enjoy the outdoors. Bill discusses sustainability, our Earth, and how it extends beyond politics. Happy Earth Day from the Carolina Outdoors and Jesse Brown’s!
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Top Hikes in the Charlotte Area
Looking to get outside in Charlotte? Despite its urban landscape, Charlotte is surrounded by trails, parks, and nature preserves where we can hike and enjoy nature. Learn some of the top trails in the Charlotte area, get hiking tips from Bill, and hear about upcoming hiking events!
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Bird Watching with the Mecklenburg Audobon Society
One of the most participated pursuits in the United States is birdwatching, As spring comes to the Carolinas, so do the birds migrating south. Judy Walker of the Mecklenburg Audobon Society joins the Carolina Outdoors to talk about birds in the Carolinas this spring, hummingbirds, and more.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Opening Day of Trout Season
Saturday, April 4th is the opening day of Trout Season in North Carolina. Trout fishing, a beloved activity for anglers across the state, marks the real beginning of spring for many. As the season begins, Bill discusses common trout species, fishing tips, hatchery-supported vs. delayed harvest waters, and more.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Spring Bird Watching in the Carolinas
In the Carolinas, the spring season brings an influx of migrating birds to their breeding or wintering grounds. Bird watching offers a great opportunity to get outside, enjoy nature, and slow down. This week on the Carolina Outdoors, Bill shares which birds to look out for in the area, tips for a successful day of bird-watching, and more.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Urban Hike 2026 with Founder Drew Thrasher
Have you ever wondered about the history of the area where we live and work? Drew Thrasher co-founded the Urban Hike to encourage his kids to get outside and learn more about the history of the area. Now an annual event, the 2026 Urban Hike is coming up on Sunday, March 29th. Drew Thrasher is on the Carolina Outdoors this week to share about the hike, this year’s location of Matthews, and more.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Hiking the W Trek in Patagonia
As temperatures rise and spring adventure approaches, Scott Wurtzbacher joins the Carolina Outdoors to share about his most recent trip to the W Trek in Patagonia. Host of the Inspire Campfire podcast and author of Campfire Within, Scott discusses weather, packing, gear, and more.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Donna R. Gore, Fly Fishing Children's Author - Part Two
How were you first introduced to adventure – whether that be fly fishing, hiking, or something else? Donna R. Gore is introducing children to fishing through her children’s book, Plugnose and the Fisherman. She joins the Carolina Outdoors this week to share the writing process, the meaning in the book, and more. In Part Two, Donna discusses technology, relationships, and her journey from Connecticut to the Carolinas.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Donna R. Gore, Fly Fishing Children's Author - Part One
How were you first introduced to adventure – whether that be fly fishing, hiking, or something else? Donna R. Gore is introducing children to fishing through her children’s book, Plugnose and the Fisherman. She joins the Carolina Outdoors this week to share the writing process, the meaning in the book, and more.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Fly Fishing & the F3T with Bill Jewett
Bill Jewett, former president of the Carolina Fly Fishing Club, joins the Carolina Outdoors to share about his time as president, how he united fly fishing groups, and the upcoming Fly Fishing Film Tour on March 19th. Learn more about the Carolina Fly Fishing Club HERE.
To learn more about the F3T and to get your ticket, click HERE!
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
MyOutdoorJoy - Part Two
MyOutdoorJoy was founded by James Smith with the goal of helping people learn how to be outdoors. People are exposed to the outdoors less and less due to changing cultural, situational, and generational circumstances. MyOutdoorJoy aims to change that with classes, adventure, and reflection.
In Part Two of this week’s episode, James Smith discusses how the company has grown and adapted over the past few years, including rebranding, team building, and more.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
MyOutdoorJoy
MyOutdoorJoy was founded by James Smith with the goal of helping people learn how to be outdoors. People are exposed to the outdoors less and less due to changing cultural, situational, and generational circumstances. MyOutdoorJoy aims to change that with classes, adventure, and reflection. Hear James Smith discuss his background, the importance of getting outside, and more on the Carolina Outdoors.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Mahjongg 101
In recent years, the game of Mahjongg has exploded in popularity in the United States. The Chinese tile game is becoming America’s favorite way to build connection and enjoy friendly competition. Kandy Steiner, a Mahjongg instructor, joins the Carolina Outdoors to teach us more about the game, its origins, and its rise in popularity.
Kandy is hosting Mahjongg 101 at Jesse Brown’s on February 25th from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Click HERE for more information & registration!
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Scouting for Food
Nourish Up, a hunger relief organization, partners annually with local scout troops in a food drive in the Charlotte area. In 2025, approximately 185,000 pounds of food was collected by Mecklenburg County Scout Troops! Tina Postel, Executive Director of Nourish Up, joins the Carolina Outdoors to talk about the mission of Nourish Up, their partnership in Scouting for Food, and how to donate.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Charlotte Unity Project
For more than 25 years, North Carolina Outward Bound School has empowered young CMS students through the Charlotte Unity Project. Alexys Woods, a Unity Project alumni and current Program Director, shares more about the program, which includes a free 7-day wilderness course for students, complemented by a Unity Club on their school’s campus. Learn more about the Unity Project, its mission, and how it impacts the Charlotte community.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Coldwater Trout Fisheries in North Carolina
Jake Rash, Coldwater Research Coordinator for the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, works with the coordination of research and management of North Carolina’s trout resources. He joins the Carolina Outdoors this week to discuss delayed harvest, economic benefits, hatcheries, and more.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Brian Hester: Author, Artist, and Fly Fisherman
Brian Hester is an artist, fly fisherman, and author of She Talks to Fish. He also recently retired from his role as an art teacher at Myers Park High School. Mr. Hester joins the Carolina Outdoors to talk about what his year has looked like since retiring, including book tours, writing movie scripts, and the upcoming Fly Fishing Film Tour on March 19th.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Snowed In, Not Bored: Surviving a Carolina Winter Storm
As a winter storm approaches Charlotte, Bill and TJ talk about snow day activities and safety. From movies to card games to safe driving, the Carolina Outdoors covers what you need to be prepared for winter weather.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Duck Hunting in the Carolinas
Duck hunting season in North Carolina and South Carolina is currently in effect, ending on January 31st. Jimmy Dobes, president of Southeast Specialty Outdoors, joins the Carolina Outdoors to talk about the sport – from his own passion for the outdoors, to safety, to decoys and calls.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Skiing at Sugar Mountain
As temperatures drop and snow flurries fall, it’s the perfect time to go skiing in the mountains of North Carolina. Gunther Jochl of Sugar Mountain Resort joins the Carolina Outdoors to talk the 2026 ski season and changes to Sugar Mountain over the years.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
The Carolina Panthers in the Playoffs
As the Carolina Panthers head into their first playoff appearance since 2017, the Carolina Outdoors talks Panthers football over the years. Bill walks through some of the Panthers’ best playoff games, as ranked by Scott Fowler of the Charlotte Observer. Find his article here.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
NC Christmas Trees with Dr. Will Kohlway
Did you know that North Carolina is home to the nation’s 2nd larger Christmas tree industry? Our state has more than 53 million trees growing on 33,000 acres of land, and over 3 million trees harvested each year.
Dr. Will Kohlway, Extension Specialist for Christmas Tree Production & Marketing at NC State University, shares more on Christmas trees in North Carolina, including their impacts on the economy and the effects of weather, pests, and disease.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
December Skies over the Carolinas
As December progresses and days get shorter, nights also get longer – and are filled with stars, galaxies, meteors, and more! Will Snyder, manager of the James S. McDonnell Planetarium in St. Louis, Missouri, shares what to look for in the night sky this winter, including star clusters, galaxies, and nebulas.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Winter Bird Watching with Taylor Piephoff
Taylor Piephoff, naturalist, member of the Mecklenburg Audubon Society, and the “bird whisperer” of Charlotte, discusses bird watching, the Christmas Bird Count, and more! Tune in to this week’s edition of the Carolina Outdoors for more on the birds seen in the Carolinas this winter.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Two Literary Giants & Fly Fishing
What connects two literary giants, Norman Maclean and Theodore Geisel aka “Dr. Seuss”? They were both authors, classmates, and friends – but not only that, they were both fishermen. Norman Maclean, the author of A River Runs Through It, and the famed Dr. Seuss shared a love for the outdoors. Tune in to hear their connection and history, more about the Carolina Fly Fishing Club, and more.
For more information on the Fly Fishing Film Tour (F3T) in Charlotte, click HERE!
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Visit Jesse Brown's at the Southern Christmas Show!
Visit Jesse Brown’s at the Southern Christmas Show this year from November 13th-23rd!
Christmas carols, treats, trees, and great holiday gift ideas can all be found at the Southern Christmas Show – the official start of the holiday season. Find your friends from Jesse Brown’s and buy tickets here.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Carolina Fly Fishing Club President
The Carolina Fly Fishing Club, a local chapter of Fly Fishing International, was founded in North Carolina to promote, advocate for, and educate on the sport of fly fishing. Chapter President Bill Jewett, otherwise known as “Fly Tying Santa,” joins the Carolina Outdoors this week. Learn more about the CFFC, how Bill was coined “Fly Tying Santa,” and the impact of fly fishing.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Drew Thrasher: The SouthPark Loop
Over the last 50 years, the forest and farmland of the SouthPark area have transformed into the city neighborhood, business district, and shopping mall that we know today. Drew Thrasher, SouthPark resident, board member of the SouthPark Area Neighborhood Association, and guide of the SouthPark Loop Trail joins the Carolina Outdoors this week. Hear about the growing pains of the area, the history surrounding us, and the original vision its creators had.
More Liner Notes are available online at Jesse Brown’s
Fall Fly Fishing with Ryley McKnight
As temperatures cool, fly fishing conditions only improve. Ryley McKnight, lead fly guide at Jesse Brown’s, joins the Carolina Outdoors to discuss fall fly fishing. Hear more about the effects of weather on trout fishing, how there are less crowds as the year progresses, and the differences between the Carolinas and Ryley’s home state, New York.
Looking for more fly fishing this fall? Visit Jesse Brown’s, Charlotte’s one-stop shop for all things angling – from gear to rods & reels to guided trips to plain old advice! Ryley is available for guided angling trips throughout the fall.<...
