Busted Knees & Pretty Trees Podcast

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we’re hanging out… literally.
We’re diving headfirst into the world of hammocks — gathered ends, bridge hammocks, straps, underquilts, bug nets, tarp setups, and all the comfort (or chaos) that comes with sleeping between two trees.
Is hammock camping better than tent life?
What gear is worth it?
What rookie mistakes should you avoid?
Whether you’re a seasoned tree-swinging pro or hammock-curious and still sleeping on the ground, this episode has everything you need to elevate your camp game.
...

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Travy J is back… and it all comes down to this.

The board is set, the questions are tougher, and the stakes have never been higher as we dive into Part 2 of the Official Trail Trivia Boardgame Adventure Challenge! Who’s been paying attention? Who’s just been along for the hike? And who will make it back to the subie totally stoked?

Expect laughs, a little chaos, and some surprisingly intense moments as we wrap up this epic showdown!

Hit play and find out who conquers the fi...

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It’s round one of a two round game night on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, and your host Travey J is leading us deep into the wild with something brand new: the official Trail Trivia Boardgame Adventure Challenge prototype. Yeah… it’s a mouthful—and it’s even wilder to play.
We’re talking survival scenarios, backpacking know-how, trail wisdom, and just enough bad decisions to keep things interesting. Who’s got the skills to make it out? Who’s getting lost two questions in? And who’s about to argue way too passionate...

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In this episode of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we sit down with Debbie Hawthorne and Travey J to talk about a passion they share—rockhounding. From searching gravel pits and creek beds to celebrating the thrill of an unexpected find, Debbie and Travis share what it’s like to explore the world of rocks and minerals side by side.
We talk about how they got started, what keeps them coming back to the hunt, and some of the memorable discoveries they’ve made along the way. Whether you're a seasoned rockhound or jus...

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Endless cornfields glowing gold at sunset. Fog lifting off quiet lakes at dawn. Gravel roads that lead to trailheads you almost missed. In our newest episode, “Our Ode to the Midwest,” we slow down and say thank you to the places that raised us — and the wild spaces that keep calling us back.
From the hardwood forests and kettle lakes of Indiana and Michigan to the prairies of Illinois and the rolling hills of Ohio, this episode is a love letter to the overlooked beauty of the Midwest. We’re talking bird songs at...

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we’re digging deep — way deep.

We sit down with Professor Benjamin Dattilo for a fascinating conversation about the stories written in stone beneath our boots. From ancient oceans and shifting continents to fossils, formations, and the mind-bending scale of deep time, Professor Dattilo helps us see the outdoors in a completely new way.

If you’ve ever picked up a rock on the trail and wondered where it came from…
If you’ve ever stood on a ridge and thought ab...

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Season 7 was one wild ride and we’re breaking it all down in our Season 7 Recap!

From unforgettable guests and muddy miles to the moments that made us laugh, learn, and fall even more in love with the outdoors, we’re revisiting the highs, the surprises, and everything in between. We share our favorite episodes, behind-the-scenes stories, what challenged us the most, and what Season 7 taught us about adventure, conservation, and community.

Whether you’ve listened to every episode or are just jumping in, this recap is the perfect way to...

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After weeks of early mornings, quiet trails, and plenty of “wait… do you see it?” moments, Brad and Paddy wrap up their years long Birding Challenge.
We’re talking favorite sightings, unexpected birds, lessons learned, and just how much closer paying attention to nature can bring you to the outdoors. From laugh-out-loud misses to genuinely magical moments, this episode is all about the joy of slowing down and noticing what’s flying around us every day.
Good stories, good friends, and a deeper appreciation for our feathered neighbors.  

Listen in to find...

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Round-robin picks, top-tier animals. We’re ranking our five favorite creatures and breaking down why each one earned its spot. Simple concept, strong takes, and plenty of love for the wild things.

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This week we’ve got a crossover episode with Justin Neeley from the Cultured Dudes, and he’s asking the questions non-outdoors people may be thinking—but never say out loud.

How do you shit in the woods? What actually keeps you coming back to the trail? Do you ever feel unsafe out there, or is everyone just pretending they don’t?

Justin brings zero outdoors experience and maximum curiosity, putting backpacking, camping, and trail life under the microscope. We give honest answers, a few laughs, and maybe even justify...

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Brad’s in the host chair, the questions are flying, the trash talk is loud, and the stakes are strangely high—the winner gets to eat a sourdough cookie. Knowledge is power. Victory is delicious.  Press play and see who knows their stuff… and who leaves cookie-less!

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2026 is on our minds, and this episode is all about what we’re hoping to get into next year. We talk through the trips on the radar—backpacking Isle Royale, kayaking the Big Manistee, and hitting The Biggest Week in American Birding along with the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival. No logistics, no deep planning—just the places, experiences, and moments we’re most excited about as we look ahead to another year outside! 

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Get ready for a great conversation as we sit down with Matt Herbert, Senior Conservation Scientist with The Nature Conservancy. Matt is helping reshape the Great Lakes—literally—by rebuilding spawning reefs and restoring the once-thriving lake whitefish populations that depend on them.
In this episode, we break down the surprising science behind reef construction, the challenges facing whitefish today, and the massive impact habitat restoration can have on an entire ecosystem. Matt brings the passion, the expertise, and the stories that make conservation feel tangible and thrilling.
Whether you’re a fish...

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How do you actually sleep outside without waking up angry at the world? In this episode, we’re tearing into our full sleep systems — what we use, what we’ve ditched, and what we’re still arguing about. Pads, bags, quilts, pillows, cold nights, bad decisions, and strong opinions all hit the table. If you’ve ever stared at your setup at 2 a.m. wondering where it all went wrong, this one’s for you. Grab a seat by the fire and settle in, sleep might be optional!

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This week, we’re taking things off-trail with a game of unpredictable questions and unfiltered answers. Each draw from the Sea to Summit Kettle of Friendship reveals something new — hilarious stories, surprising truths, and the kind of campfire honesty that only happens when good friends get a little too comfortable! This episode is all about connection, laughter, and the stories that shape who we are out on the trail! 

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This week on the podcast, we sit down with Chloe Smith-Guitard, the Stewardship and Land Management Director at LC Nature Park, for a deep dive into what it truly means to protect, restore, and care for wild spaces.

From rebuilding prairies and managing thriving bison herds to tackling invasive species and shaping the future of conservation in northeast Indiana, Chloe brings incredible insight, passion, and boots-on-the-ground experience.

Whether you’re a landowner, a conservation nerd, or just someone who loves being outside, this episode is packed with the kind of...

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This week, we’re breaking down the biggest moments, the standout guests, and the conversations that pushed us deeper into the wild. From unexpected trail stories to the behind-the-scenes chaos you never heard, we’re revisiting the episodes that defined the season and kept us moving.

If you’ve been here since episode one—or you’re just jumping in—this is the perfect way to catch the highlights, relive the best insights, and gear up for what’s coming next!

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Strap on your boots and step back in time with us as we explore one of Fort Wayne’s most iconic historic landmarks: The Old Fort.

In this episode, historian, reenactor and storyteller Harrison Snyder guides us on a captivating journey through the fort’s rich past—sharing tales of the men and women who lived, worked, and defended this frontier outpost. From the daily rhythms of life on the edge of the wilderness to the challenges and triumphs of the people who called it home, Harrison brings the 1800s to life i...

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In this episode of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, Brad and Travy take their love for the outdoors on two very different adventures. Brad heads deep into the heart of Texas, chasing the calls of rare and beautiful birds across open prairies and quiet wetlands. From early morning songbirds to the dusty trails under a big southern sky, he dives into the rhythms of migration, the beauty of patience, and the joy of spotting life on the wing.

Meanwhile, Travy stays closer to home but no less wild — exploring the rugged hi...

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Join us as we recap our backpacking trip on the Manistee River Loop! We share trail tips, gear advice, and stories from the journey. Whether you’re planning your own hike or just love the outdoors, this episode has it all.

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In this episode, we sit down with lifelong outdoorsman Dinnes McGill to explore where his deep passion for hunting and fishing began. Dinnes shares early memories that shaped his respect for the land and the wildlife that call it home, and opens up about his concerns for the future of our lakes, streams, and forests.

From the quiet lessons learned in the woods to the importance of passing that passion on to the next generation, this conversation is a reminder of why the traditions of hunting and fishing matter — and what’s at...

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Think you know your National Parks? Think again. We're back with another round of National Parks Trivia, and this time we’re diving deep into the weird, wild, and wonderfully obscure corners of America’s most beloved landscapes. Expect laughs, light competition, and maybe a few moments where we all collectively question our education. Whether you’re a trivia buff, a park junkie, or just here for the chaos, this episode’s your chance to play along and see if you can outsmart our brain-bending questions! 

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we’re getting into packing your pack from the top lid to the hip belt. What goes where, why it matters, and how to keep your gear balanced, dry, and easy to grab when you need it most.  We’ll break down how to layer your load — heavy gear in the middle, quick grabs on top, sleep stuff on the bottom — plus a few tricks to save your back and your sanity on the trail.  If you’ve ever wondered “Am I packing this thing right?” — this...

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This week we dive into the unwritten rules of the trail — from right-of-way and passing, to respecting nature and fellow hikers. We call it the art of being Trail Kind. Whether you’re a weekend wanderer or a thru-hiker, tune in for tips, laughs, and stories about what makes the trail experience better for everyone.

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This week on Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, we sit down with Andrew “Birch” Kemp — co-founder and co-director of the Detroit Arboretum. From planting roots in the city to growing a living legacy, Birch shares how trees are shaping the future of Detroit and why green spaces matter more than ever.  Tune in for stories of community, conservation, and the power of planting one tree at a time.

If you are interested in donating to the Detroit Arboretum or simply want to learn more, the link below has everything you need to help ma...

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees we’re tackling the unglamorous—but absolutely essential—side of life on the trail: hygiene! From washing up in the wild, to brushing those teeth under the stars, and yes… even the fine art of pooping outdoors. Join us as we break down the tips, tricks, and laughs that keep you clean, fresh, and feeling human—no matter how far you wander.

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Season 5 was a milestone filled with incredible conversations and unforgettable moments. We sat down with inspiring guests like Trevor Edmonson, Whitney Yoerger, and Augie, who each brought unique perspectives and stories to share. Listeners joined us for quirky game nights that kept things lighthearted and fun, while the ever-entertaining News Panther made sure no episode was without its surprises. As we look back, this season truly showcased the spirit of conservation, curiosity, and connection that drives our podcast. Join us for our recap as we highlight the best of Season 5 and set the...

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we chat with Alyssa, a boots-on-the-ground conservationist turning mud, sweat, and data into real change. From fieldwork to community action, hear how hands-on volunteering and data collecting keep our wild spaces thriving.

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Get ready for game night, Paddy-style! With his quirky twist, he takes the helm for Two Truths and a Lie. Expect laughs, surprises, and a dash of unexpected knowledge. Come hang out, play along, and see if you can spot the lie!

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we’re spreading our wings with bird conservationist Whitney Yoerger from the Indiana Audubon Society! From the importance of land conservation to creating accessible birding spaces, Whitney shares her passion for protecting habitats and connecting people to the world of birds. We also dive into her favorite birding “honey holes”, the value of public outreach, and how everyone — from beginners to seasoned birders — can play a role in conservation. Whether you’ve got binoculars in hand or just love hearing birdsong in the morning, this episode is f...

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we sit down with Brad to swap stories and dive into the do’s and don’ts of international travel. From smart tips to hilarious mishaps, this episode is packed with advice and laughs for anyone itching to explore the world! 

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Before you hit the trail, make sure your pack is ready for anything. In this episode, we break down the essential safety gear every backpacker should carry—from first aid kits and navigation tools to emergency shelters and water filtration. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend trip or a multi-day trek into the wild, we share tips, hard-earned lessons, and the little items that can make a big difference when things don’t go as planned. Because adventure is only fun when you make it home to tell the story.

Emai...

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Think you could survive in the wild? This week on the pod, we put our skills—and sanity—to the test with our very own version of Survival Trivia! It’s funny, it’s informational, and occasionally, it gets downright weird. From bizarre animal facts to “what-would-you-do” scenarios, tune in to laugh, learn, and question everything you thought you knew about staying alive in the great outdoors.

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we sit down with The Nature Conservancy's very own Trevor Edmonson, to explore the wild and wonderful world of Kankakee Sands! From managing a thriving bison herd to restoring 8,400 acres of prairie once lost to the plow, Trevor shares the triumphs and trials of bringing biodiversity back to Indiana. We talk prescribed burns, rare insects, and the incredible return of wildlife to this reborn landscape. Tune in and get inspired by the power of conservation in action!

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Join Brad and Paddy as they relive their epic 125 mile thru-paddle of Michigan’s legendary Au Sable River—"ponds", rain, and riverside camping included!  Meanwhile, Travy J discovers absolute rock hounding heaven on the shores of Lake Michigan and strikes rock gold with a rare Petosky stone find! Plus, the News Panther prowls in with the latest wild tales from the backcountry. Don’t miss this river-soaked, stone-cold episode of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees!

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This week, Paddy, Travy, and Brad break down their Top 3 Favorite Pieces of Gear, that aren’t the Core Three. From trusty trail hacks to underrated essentials, these are the items we never leave behind. Lightweight, weird, or just plain awesome, we're giving them the love they deserve.

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We’ve hiked the miles, seen the birds, swapped the gear, and now it’s time to look back on everything Season 4! In this special recap episode, Paddy, Travy, and Brad gather around the mic to reflect on the wildest stories, best guests, and favorite moments from the trail. From muddy misadventures to deep conversations under the canopy, we’re covering it all — the laughs, the lessons, and the low-key chaos that made this season one of our best yet. And to help us wrap it all up, Birdman Chad Fitzpatrick returns to the stud...

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The Busted Knees and Pretty Trees crew is back at it and guess who’s joining the flock? That’s right, The Birdman himself, Chad Fitzpatrick is back in the nest!  This week, Travy, Paddy, and Brad spread their wings with Chad to chat all things spring migration, dive into the ethics of birding, explore the meditative magic of the sit spot, and take some unexpected turns through the canopy.  Whether you're a hardcore birder or just like weird bird sounds and good conversation, this episode is a whole migration’s worth of...

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This week, Paddy, Brad, and Travy crack open the gear bag and focus on the tech that tags along—electronic gear on trail. Power banks, headlamps, GPS gadgets, and the devices we love (or love to hate) when the wilderness gets wired! 

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This week on Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, the guys welcome the one and only Mr. Corey Gaudette for a fun, funny, and slightly chaotic round of National Parks Trivia. Who’s got the park smarts and who totally blows it? You’ll have to listen to find out. Plus, the News Panther is back with a couple of wild stories you definitely don’t want to miss.

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