Best The Florida Excursionist Podcasts (2025)

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The Madcaps Reflect on the podcast and balancing both exploring and caring for Florida. 36:15

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5h ago36:15

36:15

Send us a text This week the Madcaps reflect on the podcast as well as balancing volunteering, exploring Florida, and life in general. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps Questions and c…

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Backcountry Lawman, an interview with Bob Lee about combating poaching in North Florida 39:39

10d ago39:39

39:39

Send us a text This week, we have an incredible guest, Bob Lee, who spent decades in law enforcement in Florida. He has some amazing stories about his detective work to track down poachers, chase down illegal fishermen, and survive a boat sinking at night in gator infested waters. More info on Bob can be found here: https://bobhlee.com/ Bob's books…

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A Madcaps Update! 7:11

15d ago7:11

7:11

Send us a text Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps Questions and comments can be emailed at [email protected] Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_f…

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Lightning in Florida: Fun Facts and Outdoor Precautions with Martin Uman 32:28

28d ago32:28

32:28

Send us a text This week, the Florida Madcaps have a special guest, Martin Uman who is a professor emeritus with the University of Florida and has worked six decades in the field of lightning. In this episode, he discusses some interesting facts about lightning and answers our questions when it comes to recreating in Florida in the presence of ligh…

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Notable Graves and Cemeteries in Florida. 31:56

1M ago31:56

31:56

Send us a text This week, the Madcaps discuss some of the graves, cemeteries, and pioneer burial grounds they have seen while hiking in Florida and visiting small towns. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridasprings…

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Odd things found along the trail by the Madcaps 29:45

1M ago29:45

29:45

Send us a text This week, the Madcaps discuss some of the weird things they have encountered on the trails as they have explored Florida. From burnt underwear to unattended fruit bowls, this episode has some of the more light hearted aspects of hiking. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida…

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Florida's Ghost Towns 32:01

2M ago32:01

32:01

Send us a text In this episode the Madcaps discuss a few of the many ghost towns that exist in Florida. These are settlements that are long gone and have few visual reminders. Towns discussed: Ethel https://www.floridastateparks.org/learn/historic-town-ethel Ellaville: https://abandonedfl.com/the-town-of-ellaville/ Indian Key; https://www.floridast…

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Save the Buzztails! Getting to know the Rattlesnake Conservancy in Florida! 48:20

2M ago48:20

48:20

Send us a text Fresh out of the Venomous Handling Course (hosted by the Rattlesnake Conservancy), Ryan and The Madcaps learn all things venomous snakes and about the great work the Rattlesnake Conservancy is doing to conserve a largely unappreciated species that is vital to our environment here in Florida. Website: http://savethebuzztails.org Venom…

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Part 2 of National Public Lands Day 2025 and Florida's National Parks 35:33

2M ago35:33

35:33

Send us a text This week is part 2 of 2 of our podcast of National Public Lands Day and Florida's National Parks. Started in 1994 and occurring on the 4th Saturday in September, National Public Lands Day celebrates our public lands with volunteer opportunities and events. Many of our national parks are free, so we decided to discuss the significant…

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National Public Lands Day 2025 and Florida's National Parks 34:39

2M ago34:39

34:39

Send us a text This week is part 1 of 2 of our podcast of National Public Lands Day and Florida's National Parks. Started in 1994 and occurring on the 4th Saturday in September, National Public Lands Day celebrates our public lands with volunteer opportunities and events. Many of our national parks are free, so we decided to discuss the significant…

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Dark Skies over the Everglades with Anthony Sleiman 40:01

2M ago40:01

40:01

Send us a text This week, the Madcaps were extremely fortunate to have special guest Anthony Sleiman, who is well known for his dark sky photography in the Everglades. Anthony shares how he became fascinated with the Everglades and some interesting stories of his adventures. To see Anthony's amazing work, check out the links below. website: https:/…

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Cabins in Florida's Parks Part 3! The final Episode! 37:03

3M ago37:03

37:03

Send us a text Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps Questions and comments can be emailed at [email protected] Ryan can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/the_f…

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More Cabins to rent in Florida, adventure included! 35:33

3M ago35:33

35:33

Send us a text This week the Madcaps continue on their list of parks and places that have cabins for rent in Florida. Sometimes, dealing with the heat while camping and lugging around a ton of gear isn't for everyone. Some want to enjoy what the park has to offer, then retire to a climate-controlled space with a comfortable bed. Well, there are jus…

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Florida State Park Cabins: Enjoying the Nature While Beating the Heat! 33:42

3M ago33:42

33:42

Send us a text Sometimes, dealing with the heat while camping and lugging around a ton of gear isn't for everyone. Some want to enjoy what the park has to offer, then retire to a climate controlled space with a comfortable bed. Well, there are just over 20 Florida State Parks that offer cabins with varying amenities from bunkhouses to modern buildi…

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Santa Fe River and Springs, revisiting one of our popular podcasts. 33:55

4M ago33:55

33:55

Send us a text With the summer heat at all time highs, one of the best ways to cool off is in some of our springs and rivers. The Santa Fe River has some fantastic springs and things to do. We discuss them here in this episode from summer a couple of years ago! Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from th…

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Leading Adventures in Florida: The Madcaps Share Their Experieces 44:17

4M ago44:17

44:17

Send us a text This week, the Madcaps discuss activity leading in Florida. Leaning on their training and experiences, they discuss sharing some of the natural areas of Florida with others in a group setting. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs …

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Tips for Outdoor Fun by the Madcaps 33:25

4M ago33:25

33:25

Send us a text A repost of one of our popular episodes last year, it's the Madcaps tips for having fun in Florida's outdoors with the heat other Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps Quest…

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Southwest Florida's Outdoor Gem: Crew Land and Water Trust (CREW). 38:27

4M ago38:27

38:27

Send us a text This week the Madcaps have special guest Robin Serne from CREW to discuss the ecological importance of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (CREW) and some of the recreational opportunities there. From alligators to Florida Panthers, many species call this area home. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Ge…

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Silver Springs and the Silver River with Lars Andersen 31:51

4M ago31:51

31:51

Send us a text Lars Andersen, noted Florida guide and Florida Master Naturalist Instructor, joins us to discuss the various aspects of Silver Springs and the Silver River. Lar's Website: https://adventureoutpost.net/ Lar's Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lars.andersen.3388/ Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE …

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The Ocklawaha: History, Geology, and Environmental Challenges with Lars Andersen 34:11

5M ago34:11

34:11

Send us a text This week Lars, a guide in Florida with decades of experience discusses various aspects of the amazing Ocklawaha River in north central Florida. Lar's Website: https://adventureoutpost.net/ Lar's Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lars.andersen.3388/ Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from…

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Exploring the Santa Fe River with Lars Andersen 35:13

5M ago35:13

35:13

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss the Santa Fe River and region with Lars Andersen, a Florida legend who has spent decades as a guide in northeast and north central Florida. Lar's Website: https://adventureoutpost.net/ Lar's Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lars.andersen.3388/ Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! G…

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Fun of Florida's waters. The basics of kayaking in Florida. 31:59

5M ago31:59

31:59

Send us a text A listener suggested this awesome episode. This week the Madcaps discuss some of the basics of kayaking from their perspective after paddling dozens of miles in Florida's waterways. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at…

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Exploring Even MORE Springs with Danielle of the Florida Springs Passport! 28:41

5M ago28:41

28:41

Send us a text This week Ryan and Danielle finish discussing the rest of the springs located in the Florida Springs Passport Vol. 1. If you are looking for some new springs to visit this episode covers the basic info for a number of awesome springs in Florida! Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the…

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Exploring the Florida Springs with Danielle. 24:59

5M ago24:59

24:59

Send us a text Since it is officially springs season in Florida. Ryan and Danielle of the Florida Springs Passport give an overview of the springs listed in the passport. So if you have springs on your mind or just wanted to learn about some possible new ones you haven't visited. This is the episode for you! The Florida Springs Passport is availabl…

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Guana River Wildlife Management Area 31:53

6M ago31:53

31:53

Send us a text While Guana River WMA is in the news now due to an attempted land swap. This week Ryan, Sarah, and Nancy discuss what makes Guana great as far as wildlife, history, and recreation opportunities. Guana River WMA https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/guana-river/ GTM: One of Florida's three Estuarine Reserch Reserves https://gtmnerr.org/ P…

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Stories of Springs Trip Mishaps... What Could & Did Go Wrong. 32:39

6M ago32:39

32:39

Send us a text *Correction in the podcast. The wreck of the Confederate Steamship Madison in Troy Spring is from the Civil War not WW2* This week Ryan and Danielle discuss some of the minor mishaps that have occurred while they have explored the springs and how to avoid repeating them. From unexpected thunderstorms to paddleboard falls we cover som…

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Having Fun Responsibly in Everglades National Park with guest Rachael! 37:49

6M ago37:49

37:49

Send us a text This week Rachael aka Lady Florida (https://www.instagram.com/_lady_florida?igsh=Nml5czJrZDVpNzZk) discusses enjoying and responsible behavior in Everglades National Park. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://w…

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The Pioneer Trail One of Florida's Iconic Trails 36:22

6M ago36:22

36:22

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss Chris and Chelsey's two day hike on the Pioneer Trail in Jennings State Forest. The flagship trail in Florida State Forests and one of the best in the state. Located in Northeast Florida not far from Jacksonville, it is a bucket list hike. Info on the trail can be found here: https://www.fdacs.gov/Forest…

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Hitting the Springs in 2025 with Danielle of the Florida Springs Passport 28:27

7M ago28:27

28:27

Send us a text While Chris and Chelsey are out and about in Florida, Danielle of the Florida Springs Passport joined the podcast. This week we discussed the things to know when visiting the springs this summer and some of our favorite ones to enjoy. To learn more about the springs or to purchase a Florida Springs Passport go to: https://floridaspri…

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Even More Happy Places 30:38

7M ago30:38

30:38

Send us a text This week the Madcaps share even more of their favorite Florida happy places in the environment. Torreya State Park, Lime Sink Run, and more are discussed. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspring…

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Florida's State and National Forests 33:46

7M ago33:46

33:46

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss the various state and national forests in Florida and some of the rules and policies that govern them. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps Qu…

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State Park Love Fest: Supporting the Protection of Florida State Parks 11:56

7M ago11:56

11:56

Send us a text This weekend (April 5th-6th) is the Florida State Park love fest occurring in multiple state parks around the state. Activities include various activities from sign waving, hiking, potluck picnics, and more, depending on the event location. To find out what is going on in a park near you, go to: https://savefloridaparks.com/. Many re…

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The Madcaps Happy Places in Florida 29:58

7M ago29:58

29:58

Send us a text After traveling hundreds of thousands of miles and visiting Florida's natural areas, the Madcaps discuss which parts of Florida bring them joy. This episode covers: Topsail Hill Rock Springs Run Magniloa Lake The Everglades Emerald Coast Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida…

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Hiking adventures in St Johns Water Management District Properties Part 2 38:28

8M ago38:28

38:28

Send us a text This week the Madcaps Discuss their hiking adventures in St Johns Water Management District Properties and we mention those that we have yet to explore. To see the full list check out this link: https://www.sjrwmd.com/lands/recreation/list/ Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Flor…

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Rainbow River and the Ichetucknee! The Madcaps Talk Paddling! 32:19

8M ago32:19

32:19

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss paddling on the Rainbow River and Ichetuknee River! Both offer some great views of clear spring runs. Unfortunately, there is a bill that is going through the legislature that is going to remove rules that prohibit single-use plastics and containers on these rivers. Follow the Florida Excursionist and Th…

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Responsible Behavior While Encountering Manatees with TJ and Jessica 37:03

8M ago37:03

37:03

Send us a text This week Ryan, Jessica (IG walkandpaddle), and TJ a manatee biologist from the Save the Manatee Club discuss responsible behaviors when encountering manatees in the various waterways of Florida. As the Manatee Biologist for Save the Manatee Club, Tiare 'TJ' Fridrich works to protect manatees and their aquatic habitats by collaborati…

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Madcaps Paddle Adventures in Florida Part 2! 35:50

8M ago35:50

35:50

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss some of their paddling adventures on Florida waterways. There are some recommended and not-so-recommended paddle spots between us. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridas…

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Water Management District Trails Florida's Local Treasures 35:55

9M ago35:55

35:55

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss the trails within some of the properties of the St Johns Water Management District. These are rarely used by comparison to some of the major trails in Florida and offer glimpses into lesser known natural areas. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Flor…

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Discussing Florida State Parks with Max Chesnes and Federico Acevedo Live at the FSC Springs Summit 33:36

9M ago33:36

33:36

Send us a text This week Ryan and Cathy of the Florida Spectacular Podcast (check them out!) interview Federico Acevedo and Max Chesnes both who played a role of providing information to the public during the Florida State Park Development fiasco and discuss the events during this podcast. Some info about our guests: Federico Acevedo is a passionat…

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Discussing Manatees with Manatee Biologist TJ Live at the FSC Springs Summit 27:14

9M ago27:14

27:14

Send us a text This week is the first half of the live recording of a collaboration podcast between Ryan of The Florida Madcaps and Cathy Salustri of The Florida Spectacular Podcast. Recorded in front of an audience. TJ of the Save The Manatee Club discussed all things manatees. Some info our our guest TJ: As the Manatee Biologist for Save the Mana…

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The Madcaps Favorite Paddle Destinations in Florida 30:28

10M ago30:28

30:28

Send us a text This week the Madcaps take turns discussing their favorite paddle destinations in Florida. There are too many for this episode so expect more! Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/…

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Historical Destinations Near Florida's First Coast 29:14

10M ago29:14

29:14

Send us a text This week Bree from @hiberniahistory (filling in for the ever adventuring Sunshine State Seekers) and Ryan discuss their favorite destinations along Florida's First Coast from the little-known area of Hibernia to the plantation ruins around Ormond Beach. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker…

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Micro Hikes: Make a Hike of Any Distance an Adventure! 30:26

10M ago30:26

30:26

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss micro hiking. Which is often what naturalists do by paying attention to the details to the wildlife, vegetation, tracks, and signs of wildlife on the trail. It can take a short hike and turn it into an adventure. There are various apps and resources to help! https://www.inaturalist.org/ (plant and animal…

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Even More Madcaps Everglades Adventures 28:45

10M ago28:45

28:45

Send us a text Our guest this week can be found on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/hiberniahistory/ The Nike Missle Site Festival details can be found at: https://www.nps.gov/ever/planyourvisit/nike-site-festival.htm This week the Madcaps discuss the rest of their Everglades experiences such as hiking the pine rocklands, the Nike Missle Sit…

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The Madcaps Camp at Everglades National Park 27:46

11M ago27:46

27:46

Send us a text On this week's episode the Madcaps camp at Everglades National Park and discuss their experiences hiking and enjoying the fascinating Everglades Ecosystem. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspring…

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More Florida Wildlife Encounters 33:00

10M ago33:00

33:00

Send us a text This week the Madcaps continue the discussion of their encounters with wildlife while enjoying the outdoors in Florida. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org/madcaps Questions and c…

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Tales of the Madcaps Encounters with Florida Wildlife. 30:35

11M ago30:35

30:35

Send us a text This week the Madcaps discuss the wildlife encounters that they have had while exploring Florida from freeloading raccoons to swinging monkeys. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.org…

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The Madcaps Strategy for Environmental Activism in 2025 34:06

12M ago34:06

34:06

Send us a text In this episode, the Madcaps joined by Ryan Smart, a Florida politics insider discuss the upcoming strategy to inform and organize environmental advocates for the upcoming 2025 legislative session and to oppose further attempts to develop our conservation lands. This means along side the usual Madcaps episodes we will be rolling out …

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Florida Trail Association: Upcoming events and how to get involved! 27:18

12M ago27:18

27:18

Send us a text This week the Madcaps are joined by Florida Trail Association (FTA) Advancement Committee Chair Tiffany Bright to discuss the upcoming FTA Brews for Views event where anyone can support the Florida Trail Association by grabbing a beer and scanning the barcode on a provided cocktail napkin at the following locations: Nov. 16 – Deviant…

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Chris Shares his experiences updating the Florida Trail Guide 31:03

1y ago31:03

31:03

Send us a text Our fellow (and humble) Madcap Chris Stevens talks about his latest book he co-authored with Sandra Friend, the 5th edition Florida Trail Guide. Please subscribe! Shares and reviews are much appreciated! Get your FREE sticker from the Florida Springs Council and sign up to be a springs advocate at https://www.floridaspringscouncil.or…