Dr. Jim Halfpenny is a renowned polar ecologist, expedition leader, and expert in cold-climate ecology with decades of experience studying the extreme environments of the Arctic and Antarctic. With a background in wildlife biology and ecology, Dr. Halfpenny has led and participated in numerous scientific expeditions to the polar regions, where he has conducted groundbreaking research on climate change, snow ecology, and the adaptation of wildlife to some of the planet’s harshest conditions.

Dr. Halfpenny's firsthand accounts paint a vivid picture of climate change's impact: shrinking glaciers, thawing permafrost releasing dangerous methane, and indigenous communities forced to relocate due to shifting wildlife patterns. His upcoming book "The Last Cold" documents these profound changes, while his research using ice cores reveals how current CO2 levels far exceed anything seen in the past 800,000 years.

Despite passing certain environmental tipping points, Dr. Halfpenny emphasizes hope through action and the importance of individual contributions to combat climate change. From infrastructure challenges in Alaska to the transformation of the Northwest Passage into a potential trade route, this episode offers crucial insights into our warming world.

Don't miss this essential conversation about one of the most pressing challenges of our time. Listen now to understand why the Arctic's story is everyone's story.

Show notes:

00:02:48 - Climate Change Observations in Greenland

00:06:05 - Impact of Climate Change on Icebergs

00:09:27 - Future of Coastal Towns and Trade Routes

00:11:14 - Understanding Historical Climate Change

00:14:13 - Carbon Dioxide and Climate Change

00:17:05 - Tipping Points and Climate Action

00:19:22 - Impact of Permafrost Thawing

00:22:43 - Challenges of Northern Train Travel

00:24:09 - Impact of Climate Change on Northern Communities

00:26:50 - Impact of Climate Change on Species

00:30:15 - Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife

00:34:44 - Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife

00:38:06 - Impact of Climate Change on Bears

00:40:12 - Grizzly Bears and Climate Change

00:41:32 - Advice for Mitigating Climate Change

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #adventuretravel #climatechange #climateaction #climatecrisis #yellowstonenationalpark #polarbears #polar

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Join us as we venture into the wilds of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi with three seasoned bush guides—Marshal, Luckson, and Malan. From the rugged seats of a Toyota Land Cruiser, we chat with Marshal and Malan about wildlife conservation, poaching, ecology, and the intricate behaviors of Africa’s iconic animals. Then, we sit down with Luckson, a top-tier guide with the highest level of training, to uncover the rigorous education, testing, and fieldwork required to lead walking safaris—a tradition that was born right here in Zambia. Tune in for an immersive journey into the heart of the African bush.

Show notes:

00:06:07 - Protecting Zambia's National Parks from Mining

00:09:03 - Revisiting the Mating Lions in Lower Zambezi

00:12:08 - Elephant Encounter in Lower Zambezi

00:17:12 - Let's Move Together as One Zambia

00:20:19 - Becoming a Bush Guide in Zambia

00:22:47 - Intensive Training and Expertise of Safari Guides

00:25:31 - The Importance of Respecting Animal Boundaries

00:28:59 - From Whitewater to Walking: A Guide's Journey

00:30:57 - Family Doubts, Overcoming Fears, and Protecting the Zambezi

00:32:57 - The Importance of Protecting River Ecosystems

00:34:53 - Night Drive with Guide Milan in Zambia

00:39:58 - Transforming Poachers into Conservationists

00:44:07 - Night Drive with Cooperative Clients

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #adventuretravel #zambia #lowerzambezi #lowerzambezinationalpark #zambeziriver #guidelife #safari #safariguide #lowerzambeziriver #zambeziriver

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As a child growing up on a farm in Zimbabwe, Mikey Hensman was surrounded by rescued exotic animals like elephants, impalas, and warthogs. This unique upbringing sparked his deep passion for wildlife that eventually led him to a career in anti-poaching and conservation. Hensman is the co-founder of Resolve Wildlife, an African-led strategic advisory and training group dedicated to conserving Africa's wild landscapes. Resolve Wildlife's team includes experts in protected area management, ecology, law enforcement, and community-based resource management. One of their key conservation partners, Conservation Lower Zambezi (CLZ), is a non-profit organization working to protect Zambia’s Lower Zambezi region. CLZ collaborates with Zambia’s Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) to conduct foot and aerial patrols, as well as operate specialized enforcement units, including the highly effective Dog Unit.

Introduced in 2016 with support from USAID, the Dog Unit plays a vital role in combating poaching and wildlife trafficking. Trained to detect scents of ammunition, bushmeat, ivory, pangolin, and firearms, these skilled sniffer dogs and their local handlers conduct vehicle searches at checkpoints and assist with tracking operations. Their efforts have resulted in numerous arrests and significant recoveries of illegal wildlife products, including over 175 kilograms of bushmeat and multiple firearms. Looking ahead, the program aims to expand the dogs' detection capabilities to include rhino horn and Zambia’s rare Mukula wood, further strengthening anti-poaching efforts in the region.

Show Notes:

00:03:46 - From Polo to Elephant Training: A Family's Journey

00:07:09 - Elephant Conservation and Canine Anti-Poaching Programs

00:10:16 - Detection and Tracking: Canine Anti-Poaching Capabilities

00:12:23 - Challenges of Conservation Dog Training in Africa

00:18:42 - Patrolling the Periphery: Combating Poaching in Africa

00:21:14 - Encounters with Poachers in the Miombo Woodland

00:24:23 - Tracking Poachers Through Rugged Terrain

00:27:28 - Tracking Animals for Conservation

00:30:51 - Protecting Wildlife and Communities in Lower Zambezi

00:34:41 - Protecting the Zambezi River and Wildlife

00:36:18 - Promoting Environmental Education and Community Empowerment

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #adventuretravel #zambia #resolvewildlife #lowerzambezi #conservationlowerzambezi #elephantconservation #dogtraining #antipoaching #k9training

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Dr. Jim Halfpenny is a renowned scientist, educator, and author specializing in carnivore ecology, tracking, and the natural history of cold climates. With a Ph.D. in biology, he has conducted extensive research on wildlife, particularly bears, wolves, and mountain lions, and has contributed significantly to the study of animal tracking and forensic wildlife investigations. As the president of A Naturalist’s World, he has led numerous workshops and expeditions, sharing his deep knowledge with students, researchers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Dr. Halfpenny has authored several influential books and field guides, helping to advance the understanding of animal behavior and ecosystems. His passion for conservation and education has left a lasting impact on wildlife science and outdoor learning.

Show notes:

00:03:00 - Growing Up on the River and Becoming an Outdoor Guide

00:06:44 - Surviving the Coldest Winter in Yellowstone

00:09:55 - Yellowstone Ski Trips and Survival Experiences

00:12:27 - Teaching Snow and Polar Regions in Vietnam

00:15:29 - The Importance of Tracking in Early Human Survival

00:18:12 - The Art and Science of Tracking

00:21:28 - Forensic Tracking: Revealing the Hidden Story

00:23:44 - Careful Carcass Examination: Gathering Evidence for Accurate Identification

00:26:18 - Evaluating Forensic Evidence: Probability and Quality

00:28:12 - Tracking Animals Across Continents

00:30:52 - Tracking Paws: Webbing, Claws, and Unique Adaptations

00:33:22 - Comparing Bear Claws and Tracks

00:35:42 - Exploring the Skulls of Bears, Wolves, and Prey Animals

00:37:40 - Analyzing Bones and Tracks of Wildlife

00:39:42 - Protecting Planet Earth: Collective Responsibility and Action

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #publiclands #keepitpublic #yellowstone #yellowstonenationalpark #wolves #wolf #grizzlybear #carnivoreecology #ecology #jimhalfpenny #jameshalfpenny

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Hal Herring is an award-winning journalist and writer renowned for his work in conservation and investigative journalism. His writing has appeared in notable publications such as The Atlantic, The Economist, and Orion. He is also a contributing editor at Field & Stream and a regular contributor to High Country News.

Beyond his writing, Herring has made significant contributions to the podcasting world as the host of the "Podcast & Blast with Hal Herring," produced by Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. This podcast delves into topics related to conservation, hunting, and the outdoors, reflecting Herring's commitment to these issues.

Herring's dedication to conservation and the outdoors is evident not only in his writing but also in his active involvement in related communities and initiatives. His work continues to inspire and inform those passionate about the natural world and its preservation. https://www.halherring.com/

SHOW NOTES:

00:03:36 - Formative Years of an Outdoor Writer

00:05:13 - Discovering the Wonders of Western Public Lands

00:07:10 - From Alabama to Montana: A Life in the Wild

00:09:08 - Dual Citizenship and Montana's Arid Landscape

00:10:48 - The Arid Beauty and Vital Watersheds of Public Lands

00:13:52 - The Importance of Public Lands in America

00:15:36 - The Origins of Forest Conservation in the US

00:19:10 - The Timber Reserve Act and the Clash of Conservation Visions

00:21:17 - Preserving America's Public Lands

00:25:57 - Valuing America's Public Lands

00:28:16 - The Importance of Public Lands and Collaborative Management

00:30:49 - Valuing and Preserving America's Public Lands

00:33:08 - Preserving Wildlife Corridors on Public Lands

00:35:07 - Preserving America's Public Lands for Future Generations

00:38:13 - Connect with Nature to Conserve It

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #publiclands #keepitpublic #halherring #backcountryhuntersandanglers #bha

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Lisa Barill, a wildlife biologist and science writer, shares the fascinating story of ice patch archaeology and how melting glaciers are revealing a trove of ancient artifacts around the world.

She earned a B.S. in biology from Eastern Connecticut State University in 2000 and a master's degree from Montana State University in 2009. Baril has extensive experience writing about natural resources and science for national parks across the southwestern United States. She is a member of the National Association of Science Writers, the Society of Environmental Journalists, and the Outdoor Writers Association of America. In 2024, she authored "The Age of Melt: What Glaciers, Ice Mummies, and Ancient Artifacts Teach Us about Climate, Culture, and a Future Without Ice," exploring the deep-rooted cultural connection between humans and ice throughout history.

Show Notes:

00:02:16 - Growing Up Adventuring in Connecticut

00:05:30 - From Discovery Channel to Yellowstone: A Wildlife Biologist's Journey

00:07:26 - Raptors and Songbirds in Yellowstone: Insights from Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and Peregrine Falcons

00:10:33 - Wolves, Beavers, and Willow Growth in Yellowstone

00:12:41 - Glaciers, Ice Mummies, and Ancient Artifacts

00:14:37 - 10,300-Year-Old Hunting Tool Discovered in Ice Patch

00:16:47 - The Atlatl: An Ancient Hunting Tool

00:21:27 - Hunting and Survival in Mountain Ice Patches

00:24:42 - Scaring Sticks and Preserved Artifacts

00:27:57 - Ancient Remains Discovered: Champaign and Asiak Negotiate Rights

00:32:37 - A World Without Ice: Melting Glaciers and Warming Temperatures

00:35:25 - Climate Change's Unprecedented Threat

00:37:34 - Redefining Wilderness: Honoring Indigenous Histories

00:40:41 - Reducing Microplastics: Easy Steps for a Healthier Environment

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretrave #climateaction #climatechange #climate #yellowstonenationalpark #lisabaril #ageofmelt

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Discover the remarkable story of how a Greek immigrant's fruit stand in early 1900s Missoula blossomed into Caras Nursery, a thriving family business spanning over 100 years. Bill Caras shares heartwarming tales of growing up in a close-knit community during the 1950s and 60s, where childhood adventures and family values shaped his future.

Beyond the nursery, Bill reveals his passion for historical maps, sharing insights into rare cartographic treasures dating back to the 1500s. His collection offers fascinating glimpses into Montana's early development and the evolution of the American West.

Join us for this captivating episode that weaves together family heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and the deep roots that connect one family to their community.

Show notes:

00:04:18 - Family Business Transitions and Expansion

00:06:43 - Returning to the Family Nursery

00:08:43 - From Nursery Catalogs to Greek Roots

00:11:24 - Family's Fruit Store and Nursery History

00:13:05 - Childhood Home and Family History

00:17:21 - Exploring Montana's Evolving Maps

00:18:46 - Exploring Ancient Maps and Their History

00:21:12 - Antique Maps: A Fascinating History

00:24:56 - Exploring the Vibrant World of Plants

00:26:38 - Balancing Nature and Deer in the Garden

00:30:00 - Caring for Outdoor Plants: Watering, Pests, and Avoiding Damage

00:34:09 - Native Plants and Landscaping Choices

00:38:14 - Preserving Missoula's Spirit Through Kindness and Optimism

00:40:14 - Advice for a Positive Life from a Nursery Owner

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretrave #carasnursery #plantlovers #botany #billcaras

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Ramona Holt grew up in Montana’s ranching and rodeo scene, participating in youth, intercollegiate and professional rodeo. As an adult, she dedicated her life to promoting the western way of living, and for 30 years Ramona and her husband, Bill, traveled throughout the western United States, Canada and Australia promoting professional rodeo and the West. They started their own herd of Texas Longhorn Cattle in 1967 and were the first to export those cattle from the U.S. to Australia in 1985—leading to the government honoring them at an exposition in 1986 in Mackay, Australia.

Today, as a trustee representing Western Montana for the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Center, Ramona recommends people and ranches to be honored each year. In 2018, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association honored her as the “Notable Lady of the West” at their World of Rodeo Reunion in Las Vegas. Her life has been dedicated to telling the story of the western way through many avenues including the creation of the Holt Heritage Museum—located in Lolo and open by appointment only—which houses rodeo and western artifacts, including 20 horse-drawn vehicles.

Show notes:

00:03:10 - Growing Up on a Remote Ranch

00:06:26 - A Life in Fisheries and Rodeo

00:10:15 - Raising Money for Nonprofits through Art Shows

00:12:36 - Exporting Longhorn Cattle to Australia

00:14:46 - Grandchildren, Elders, and the Legacy of Lewis and Clark

00:18:03 - Lewis and Clark's Military Camp Setup

00:21:00 - Friendly Natives Aided Lewis and Clark

00:23:48 - Cultivating Small-Scale Sustainability

00:26:53 - Rich History of Indigenous Peoples in the Valley

00:31:27 - Polywog Shirts and Nez Perce Artifacts

00:34:11 - Preserving Native Traditions: Cornmeal and Moss Bags

00:36:36 - Preserving the Valley's Heritage

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #ramonaholt #montanarodeo #montanaranch #montanaranching #montanacowgirl #cowgirl #montanahistory

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