Busted Knees & Pretty Trees

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Birding is about a lot more than spotting a bird and adding another checkmark to your life list! This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we're joined by Frank Izaguirre, Marketing and Communications Manager for the American Birding Association, to talk about the wonderful, sometimes complicated, and always fascinating world of Birding. 

We discuss how social media is changing the way people discover birds, the importance of ethical wildlife observation, and whether birders have a responsibility to become conservation advocates.  

We also dive into Frank's writing and field gu...

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We made it to 100 episodes of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, and what better way to celebrate than with a trivia game night, a few drinks, and absolutely no guarantee of keeping things classy!

For this milestone episode, we brought in some special guests: my wife Ashley, Justin’s wife Taylor, and Justin himself. Apparently, they’ve all been claiming to listen to the podcast, so we figured it was time to put that claim to the test!

What followed was a night of trivia, friendly competition, questionable answers, plen...

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Some movies entertain us. Others make us want to throw a backpack in the truck, hit the trail, and chase our own adventure.

This week on Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, Justin and Patrick sit down for a fun conversation about the outdoor films that have stuck with us over the years. The stories that inspired us, the moments we still talk about, and the movies that remind us why we love wild places in the first place.

Whether you're a hiker, paddler, camper, backpacker, or simply someone who loves...

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This week on Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, we're joined by Rebecca "Primetime" Cuff for an inspiring and entertaining conversation about hiking, backpacking, and embracing life's next chapter. We talk about how she went from the corporate world to the trail, what fuels her passion for adventure, and why she believes it's never too late to start chasing big goals.

We also take a deep dive into her backpacking kit, breaking down the gear she carries, the lessons she's learned along the way, and the items she wouldn't hit the trail without...

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On this episode of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we’re diving into the wild, impressive, strange, and sometimes downright ridiculous achievements from the world of thru-hiking. From record-setting mileage and incredible endurance to the oldest, youngest, fastest, and most unexpected trail accomplishments, we’re taking a walk through some of the greatest feats ever accomplished on foot.
So lace up, grab your pack, and get ready for a whole lot of miles, mountains, records, and stories.

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This week on the Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we're hitting the trail with Jeanelle Soland and Rob Pelton from the Leave No Trace/Subaru Traveling Team! We talk all things Leave No Trace, life on the road, connecting with outdoor communities, and what it really takes to help people enjoy the outdoors while protecting the places we love! 

So buckle up, grab your pack, and come along for the ride! It's another episode packed with stories, laughs, and plenty of reasons to get outside--and leave it better than you found i...

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Brad is back from a Carolina adventure, bringing stories from his trip through North and South Carolina! Then Travey cracked open the Bird Gospel of Hal Coffel for another wild find and a whole of a lot more!
Another episode of Busted Knees & Pretty Trees is here. Hit play, follow along, and Keep on Sauntering!

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We weren’t able to put out a full episode this week because we’ve got some exciting improvements happening behind the scenes. We know—no episode?! We’re disappointed too.
But don’t worry, the fellowship isn’t going anywhere. We’ll be back next week with more stories, more laughs, and more adventures from the trail.
Keep on sauntering, and we’ll see you next Wednesday!

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He's back! For the third time, our good friend Chad Fitzpatrick joins us in the dungeon studio, and this time he's bringing stories from an unforgettable family road trip across the American West.
From long miles on the road to unforgettable days in the backcountry, Chad shares what it's really like to introduce four kids to wild places. We talk about the challenges, the chaos, the laughs, and the moments that make every mile worth it. If you've ever wondered whether adventure has to stop when you start a family, this episode...

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America's National Parks don't protect themselves—and neither does the idea behind them.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Bill Wade, Executive Director of the Association of National Park Rangers (ANPR), for a candid discussion about conservation, civic engagement, and the importance of standing up for our public lands.

Drawing from decades of experience with the National Park Service, Bill shares incredible stories from his time as a ranger, but this conversation goes far beyond trails, wildlife, and scenic vistas. We dive into the growing need for ci...

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In this episode, we're talking about the realities of backcountry hygiene: where to pee, how to poop responsibly, staying clean on the trail, and the little comforts that can make a big difference after a long day outdoors. From Leave No Trace bathroom practices to trail-tested hygiene tips and a few creature comforts you won't want to leave behind, we've got you covered.

Whether you're planning your first overnight trip or you're a seasoned backpacker looking to fine-tune your camp routine, this episode is packed with practical advice, plenty of laughs...

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This week, we sat down with Bradley’s longtime friend Jared Jones from St. Louis. Some might say he's just a down-to-earth, normal guy with a lifelong passion for the outdoors!

From hunting and fishing since he was old enough to tag along, to discovering a newfound love for hiking and an old found love of chasing morel mushrooms through the spring woods, Jared shares stories, experiences, and lessons learned from a lifetime spent outside.

Whether you're a hardcore outdoorsman, a weekend adventurer, or just someone who appreciates the si...

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Another season is officially in the books, and there's only one way to celebrate... put our memories to the test.
This week, the Fellowship goes head-to-head in the annual Season 9 Trivia Challenge, reliving our favorite interviews, biggest laughs, unforgettable moments, and the adventures that made this season one to remember. Think you paid attention this year? Play along and see if you can outscore the guys.
Grab a drink, settle in around the campfire, and join us for one last ride through Season 9.

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This week on the Busted Knees and Pretty Trees Podcast, Brad and Travis keep each other company in studio while Patrick is on a family adventure in a distant land. To cope with the absence, the guys have a chat about their early summer adventures and new backpacking gear they've acquired. This includes Brads camera gear setup, Travis' newfound hobby for shabby nature cinematography, and the challenges of carrying extra equipment on the trail. 

Plus, Walt brings some news about one of the most bizarre and ancient creatures living among us t...

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we sit down with Chris Bradley of the Hoosier Hikers Council to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to keep our trails alive. From boots-on-the-ground maintenance to protecting wild places for future generations, Chris gives us an inside look at the work most hikers never see.
We dig into trail stewardship, trail advocacy and proper trail architecture.  If you’ve ever wondered how that trail beneath your feet began, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

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After what feels like years of waiting, our beloved Kearstin Whitcomb finally made her way into the dungeon studio for recording night—and it was totally worth it.
This week, Bradley R steps in as quizmaster, putting the fellowship of the pink pony club through a gauntlet of animal trivia—from the biggest animal to have ever lived on earth to how many eyes a bee has!  The competition gets fierce, the guesses get reckless, and the laughs come easy. It’s part trivia night, part wildlife crash course, and all-out chaos.
Thi...

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In this episode, we spotlight real stories of nature bouncing back—from species saved to ecosystems restored. These aren’t theories or “what-ifs”… they’re proof that conservation works.

We share three powerful stories that show what happens when people step in, take action, and make a difference for the natural world.

And along the way, Travey brings in a piece of Indiana history—highlighting Colonel Richard Lieber, the visionary behind Indiana’s state park system, and how his leadership helped protect some of the landscapes we still enjoy today.

It’...

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we sit down with urban wildlife biologist Jessica Merkling to pull back the curtain on a job most people never think about until there's an animal causing trouble. We talk nuisance wildlife, human-wildlife conflicts, and the challenges cities face as they work to balance development, public safety, and healthy wildlife populations.
What happens when a coyote moves into a neighborhood? Why do some animals thrive in urban environments while others struggle? And what does a typical day actually look like for an urban wildlife...

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Spring migration is here! Join Bradley and Paddy as they dive deep into the spectacle of migrating birds, break down the excitement around BWIAB, and preview everything happening at the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival. From warbler fallout to birding strategy, this episode is packed with stories, insights, and plenty of spring birding energy. Tune in now! 

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Backpacking used to be about dirt under your nails, bad coffee at sunrise, and sitting on a rock long enough to feel small again. Now it feels like it’s all spreadsheets, split times, and humblebrags about 30-mile days.
Somewhere along the way, miles started mattering more than memories.
So we’re pushing back.
This is a conversation about slowing down on purpose. About ignoring the stopwatch. About staying at the overlook even if it wrecks your itinerary. About remembering that nobody lays in their tent at night thinking, “I wish I...

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This week on Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, we sit down with the man, the myth, the legend — Paddy’s old biology teacher, Jabin Burnworth — and trust us… this one is special.  You know that teacher who made science feel like an adventure instead of an assignment? The one who turned confusion into curiosity and classrooms into ecosystems? That was Jabin.
In this episode, we talk about what makes a great teacher great, how to make biology attainable for every kid, and why curiosity is still the most powerful tool in the outdoors. We dive i...

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In this episode of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we dive headfirst into the wildest, weirdest, and most head-scratching gear of 2026. From “who asked for this?” gadgets to surprisingly brilliant oddities, we’re breaking down what’s innovative, what’s unnecessary, and what might actually earn a spot in your pack.

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In this special recap showdown, the Busted Knees and Pretty Trees crew puts memory, pride, and podcast credibility on the line in a no-holds-barred Season 8 trivia gauntlet. From layin logs in Brad's kayak to unexpected wildlife encounters, no story is safe—and no detail is too small to be weaponized.  Some answers will come easily. Others will destroy friendships!

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This week on Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, we sit down with Brad and Sarah to unpack their wild trip to Costa Rica — from trekking through Parque Nacional Marino Ballena (yes, the one shaped like a whale’s tail) to hiking deep into Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Hacienda Barú surrounded by sloths, monkeys, and more humidity than you can emotionally prepare for.  They also hit the trails in Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal, chasing volcano views, rainforest miles, and that classic “are we sure this is the trail?” feeling.  And then… the night hike.  Headlam...

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This week on Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, Paddy loads up the family and heads south for a full-blown Lowcountry adventure! From wild shores on Bulls Island to the towering old-growth forest of Congaree National Park, and the living history of Fort Sumter, this trip had everything!  If you love road trips, national parks, and a little bit of adventure, this one’s for you! 

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This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we’re throwing on the boots and heading straight into the undergrowth.
Dr. Jordan Marshall takes us beyond the classroom and into the field! We talk educating generations of biologists, the future of forests after disruptions, invasive pressures, and why understanding plants is critical to protecting the places we love to hike, camp, and explore! 

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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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