Best Weekend Birder Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 51 - Hygiene On Trail 46:46

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6d ago46:46

46:46

Send us a text 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, …

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Ep. 50 - Season 5 Finale! 56:05

13d ago56:05

56:05

Send us a text 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-entert…

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Ep. 49 - Volunteering for the Wild with Alyssa Augustyniak! 1:20:22

20d ago1:20:22

1:20:22

Send us a text 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. Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @bustedpretty.bsky.s…

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Ep. 48 - Quirky Truths & Twisted Lies with Paddy 51:02

27d ago51:02

51:02

Send us a text 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! Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen t…

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Ep. 47 - The Bird is the Word w/ Indiana Audubon Society's Whitney Yoerger! 1:32:11

1M ago1:32:11

1:32:11

Send us a text 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 …

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Ep. 46 - International Backpacking w/ Bradley Grear 1:18:27

1M ago1:18:27

1:18:27

Send us a text 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! Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @bustedpretty.bsky.soc…

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Ep. 45 - Safety First, Adventure Always 58:24

2M ago58:24

58:24

Send us a text 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…

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Ep. 44 - Wilderness Trivia: Can You Survive? 58:24

2M ago58:24

58:24

Send us a text 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 t…

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Ep. 43 - Bringing Back The Prairie: With The Nature Conservancy's Trevor Edmonson! 1:38:10

2M ago1:38:10

1:38:10

Send us a text 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 t…

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Ep. 42 - From River to Rocks: Au Sable Adventures & Charlevoix Finds! 1:06:20

2M ago1:06:20

1:06:20

Send us a text 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 …

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Ep. 41 - Top 3 Pieces of Gear (Not Core 3) 1:12:11

3M ago1:12:11

1:12:11

Send us a text 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. Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @…

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Ep. 40 - Season Four Wrap Up! 1:07:52

3M ago1:07:52

1:07:52

Send us a text 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 canop…

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Ep. 39 - The Birdman Cometh....Againeth! 1:34:41

3M ago1:34:41

1:34:41

Send us a text 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 s…

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Ep. 38 - We Talkin Electronics... on the Trail! 1:08:55

3M ago1:08:55

1:08:55

Send us a text 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! Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Join us: bustedpretty.com Lis…

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Ep. 37 - National Parks Trivia w/ Mr. Corey Gaudette! 1:03:07

3M ago1:03:07

1:03:07

Send us a text 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 …

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Ep. 36 - John Chapman: The Myth And The Legend 1:03:20

4M ago1:03:20

1:03:20

Send us a text This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, Travy J. peels back the legend of Johnny Appleseed, or should we say John Chapman? Was he really just a barefoot wanderer planting apple trees? Or is there more fruit to the story? Join us as we dig into the myths, the man and the mysticism behind one of America's strangest folk heroes. Ema…

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Ep. 35 - Backpacking Gear Accessories! 1:04:15

4M ago1:04:15

1:04:15

Send us a text This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, Paddy, Travy, and Brad dive deep into all things backpacking gear accessories! From the lightest packs to the weirdest gadgets you never knew you needed, the guys break it all down with their usual banter, honest takes, and trail-tested wisdom! Email us at: [email protected] Follow us:…

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Ep. 34 - We Took a Trip! 1:04:59

4M ago1:04:59

1:04:59

Send us a text Join Paddy, Travy, and Brad as they dive into their latest adventures—from the birding bonanza at the Biggest Week in American Birding in Ohio to the unforgettable chaos and camaraderie of Trail Days 2025 in Virginia. Birds, trails, laughs, and stories you don’t want to miss. Hit play and come along for the ride! Email us at: bustedp…

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118 Season Finale - with the Weekend Birder Community 21:08

4M ago21:08

21:08

Celebrate the joy of birdwatching together. This episode features listener stories, curious questions, and bird recordings from the Weekend Birder community. It’s a heartfelt wrap-up to the season, featuring moments from listeners around Australia and a special dawn chorus recording. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/118-seas…

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Ep. 33 - The Gang Does Trivia! 1:21:05

4M ago1:21:05

1:21:05

Send us a text Gather ‘round the campfire and join us deep in the woods for another hilarious game of Trivia! The questions are as wild as the trails we wander, and the laughter echoes through the trees. Whether you're on a hike or just dreaming of one, this episode brings the wilderness right to your ears! Email us at: [email protected] Follo…

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117 Dawn Chorus - with Andrew 30:13

4M ago30:13

30:13

Listen to the world around you. This episode explores deep listening, learning from birds, and what makes the Australian dawn chorus so unique. Sound recordist Andrew Skeoch shares the wisdom of wild soundscapes and how tuning into nature can change the way we live, think, and feel. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/117-dawn-…

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Ep. 32 - Let's Talk America's National Parks! 1:08:28

5M ago1:08:28

1:08:28

Send us a text This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, the tables are turned! Paddy and Travy J hijack the News Panther for a chaotic romp through two headlines, while Brad trades the mic for a ranger hat and dives deep into the history behind America’s national parks. Role reversal, ridiculous banter, and real nature nerdiness, all in one epis…

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116 Broken Hill - with Anika 24:09

5M ago24:09

24:09

Take a trip to the Australian outback. This episode explores the unique birds of Broken Hill and the work of a farmer who cares deeply for wildlife and the planet. Dr Anika Molesworth shares how farming, climate action, and bird conservation can go hand in hand. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/116-broken-hill-with-anika 🎵 E…

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115 Casual Birding - with Suzy 29:08

5M ago29:08

29:08

Look at Australian birds with new eyes. In this episode, English birdwatcher and podcaster Suzy Buttress shares her birding adventures, her love for connecting with people through birds, and her favourite places to go birding in the UK. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/115-casual-birding-with-suzy 🎵 Sulphur-crested Cockatoo …

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Ep. 31 - Gear Talk.... Clothing Accessories! 1:00:16

5M ago1:00:16

1:00:16

Send us a text You’re listening to Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, the podcast where we dive into the gear that keeps you ready for the trail. From hats that shield, to sunglasses that protect, to fanny packs that carry your essentials, we cover the accessories that make every adventure smoother. Stay tuned, stay equipped and keep on sauntering! Ema…

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Ep. 30 - Season 3 Recap! 1:14:54

5M ago1:14:54

1:14:54

Send us a text Join us as we wrap up a wild and wonderful Season 3! From cool bird sightings to jaw-dropping news panther updates, and unforgettable guests—this recap has it all. Whether you’ve been with us from the start or just tuning in, this episode is your perfect guide through the highs, laughs, and muddy boots of the season. Don’t miss it! E…

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114 Bird of Prey Q&A - with Steve 18:05

5M ago18:05

18:05

Get to know birds of prey on a whole new level. In this Q&A episode, raptor expert Stephen Debus answers listener questions about eagle parenting, prey, plumage morphs and more – sharing insights from a lifetime studying Australia’s birds of prey. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/114-bird-of-prey-qa-with-steve 🎵 Bird of prey…

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Ep. 29 - A Game Of Would You Rather, Anyone? 1:01:31

5M ago1:01:31

1:01:31

Send us a text This week, Travy J turns up the heat with a rousing—but always friendly—game of Would You Rather? Get ready for wild scenarios, tough choices, and plenty of laughs. Tune in, play along, and see where you stand when things get weird! Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Join us: bustedpretty.com Lis…

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113 Birdwatching for All - with Ian and Julie 23:12

5M ago23:12

23:12

Discover the joys of birdwatching with limited mobility. This episode is about two birders who make birding accessible, including for those in a wheelchair, and the wonderful nature discoveries they've made along the way. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/113-birdwatching-for-all-with-ian-and-julie 📸 Instagram - https://www.i…

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Ep. 28 - And Now, Some Backcountry News! 1:13:37

6M ago1:13:37

1:13:37

Send us a text This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, Travy, Brad, and Paddy each bring a wild, weird, or downright unbelievable news story straight from the backcountry. From the rebirth of the dire wolf to the circuit court ruling on public lands border crossings— you won't believe what is going on out there! Email us at: bustedpretty@gmail.…

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112 Bird Videos - with Scot 27:18

6M ago27:18

27:18

Learn how to record video footage of birds. This episode is about a passionate ornithologist, conservationist and film-maker who has some great advice about creating bird videos. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/112-bird-videos-with-scot 🎵 Paradise Riflebird recording by Marc Anderson - licenced from https://www.wildambience…

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Ep. 27 - What's On Top: Let's Talk Layers! 1:06:03

6M ago1:06:03

1:06:03

Send us a text The new episode of the Busted Knees and Pretty Trees is live! This week we’re talking layers — the base, the middle, and the outer. Puffies, fleeces, sun hoodies and all the stuff that keeps you cozy (or not) in the backcountry. Tune in for gear talk, trail thoughts, and our takes on what’s worth carrying when every ounce counts. Ema…

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111 Fairywren Quest - with Maggie 20:50

6M ago20:50

20:50

Try a different form of birdwatching. In this episode, amateur naturalist Maggie Galbraith shares how slowing down and staying local helped her learn more about birds – including the stunning White-winged Fairywren. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/111-fairywren-quest-with-maggie 🎵 White-winged Fairywren recording by Marc An…

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Ep. 26 - Our Version of Who Is Most Likely! 1:01:23

6M ago1:01:23

1:01:23

Send us a text Episode 26 of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees is a wild ride as we play a raucous game of Who Is Most Likely! No one is safe in this fast-paced, no-holds-barred showdown. Who’s most likely to die first in a horror movie set in the backcountry? Who’s most likely to strip down and go for a little skinny dip? Tune in for the laughs, the c…

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110 Slow Birding - with Joan 16:45

6M ago16:45

16:45

Try a different form of birdwatching. In this episode, biologist Joan Strassmann shares how slowing down and paying attention to common birds can reveal extraordinary insights. Learn how the Slow Food movement inspired her to take a more thoughtful approach to birding – and how you can too. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/1…

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Ep. 25 - Turn the Mic: Fan Q&A with Adam Grimme 1:28:08

6M ago1:28:08

1:28:08

Send us a text Get ready for another episode of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees! This week, we’re flipping the script—longtime listener and fan Adam Grimme joins us as our special guest, and this time, he's asking the questions! What’s he got in store for us? You’ll have to tune in to find out!" Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @bustedp…

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109 Tasmania - with Ramit 21:13

6M ago21:13

21:13

Adventure to Australia’s southern island. In this episode, Tasmanian tour guide Ramit Singal shares what it’s like to lead birdwatching trips, why he loves pelagic birding, and how citizen science connects people to the natural world. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/109-tasmania-with-ramit 📸 Instagram - https://www.instagra…

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Ep. 24 - Pants, Shorts and Underwear on Trail! 1:12:30

7M ago1:12:30

1:12:30

Send us a text In this episode of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we tackle age-old hiker questions pertaining to pants, shorts, and underwear! We talk about the best choice for different weather conditions, and personal comfort. Do you go full coverage to protect against the sun and/or wind, or embrace the airflow with shorts? And where does underw…

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108 Birds on Farms - with Shannon 18:02

7M ago18:02

18:02

Discover how farmers are making a difference for birds. This episode explores BirdLife Australia’s Birds on Farms project – and how it’s helping birds, habitats, and rural communities thrive. Ecologist Shannon Creaney shares what she’s learned from working with landholders across Victoria. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/10…

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Busted Knees and Pretty Trees Trailer 1:05

7M ago1:05

1:05

Send us a text Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen to us on: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 23 - Hiking Footwear and Socks! Let's Have a Talk! 52:57

7M ago52:57

52:57

Send us a text Ready to hit the trail but not sure what’s best for your feet? Whether you're lacing up rugged hiking boots for tough terrain, slipping into lightweight hiking shoes for a quick trek, or pulling on the perfect pair of moisture-wicking socks to keep blisters at bay—we've got you covered! Tune in as we break down the best footwear choi…

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107 Did You Spot It - with Jason 16:04

7M ago16:04

16:04

Get advice about how to help children learn about the birds around them. In this episode, Jason Rodgers shares how his book Did You Spot It? encourages kids (and grown-ups) to notice and enjoy the birds of Australia — through colour, curiosity and fun. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/107-did-you-spot-it-with-jason 🎵 Laughin…

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Ep. 22 - Good Ol' Fashioned Trivia w/ Ty Vanmeter! 1:07:51

7M ago1:07:51

1:07:51

Send us a text In the latest episode of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, the guys welcome special guest Ty Vanmeter for a fun, lighthearted round of classic nature trivia! Get ready for laughs, friendly competition, and plenty of outdoor knowledge as they test their wits on everything from wildlife to the wilderness. Tune in for a laid-back adventure…

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106 Ornithology - Paperback Perfumes crossover 1:06:48

7M ago1:06:48

1:06:48

Journey back to the 1800s to hear about the life of Elizabeth Gould. This crossover episode with Clare Presser from Paperback Perfumes blends scent, storytelling and science – exploring colonialism, feminism, and the natural beauty of birds through the lens of Gould’s legacy. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/106-ornithology-…

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Ep. 21 - We Are Talkin' Birds with Chad Fitzpatrick! 1:37:25

7M ago1:37:25

1:37:25

Send us a text This week on the Busted Knees and Pretty Trees podcast, we are welcoming a great friend of the podcast and totally rad bird man, Chad Fitzpatrick! We are talkin' birds baby! Bird songs, favorite birds, methods of birding, birding gear and a lot more! Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Join us: bu…

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105 Birding in a Kayak - with Marian 18:43

7M ago18:43

18:43

Look at Australian birds from a different perspective. In this episode, Marian Blake shares how kayaking opened up new birdwatching experiences – from close encounters with raptors to finding connection and community through birding in Bendigo. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/105-birding-in-a-kayak-with-marian 🎵 White-belli…

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Ep. 20 - We are the Hydro Homies!! 58:33

7M ago58:33

58:33

Send us a text This week on the Busted Knees podcast, your H2O bros cover all things water! How to carry water, the importance of water, filtering water and so much more! Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen to us on: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube…

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104 Gang-gang Cockatoos - with Holly and Gee 39:57

7M ago39:57

39:57

Learn all about one of Australia’s most charismatic cockatoos. This episode dives into the world of the Gang-gang Cockatoo through the eyes of two passionate advocates – Dr Holly Parsons from BirdLife Australia, and community conservationist Gee Hounsell. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/104-gang-gang-cockatoos-with-holly-an…

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Ep. 19 - We Welcome Back Jon Cable for the Gear Talk! 1:15:24

8M ago1:15:24

1:15:24

Send us a text This week, we welcome back Jon Cable, our resident, midwestern Thru-Hiker! Last week we spoke of experiences he has had on the trail, but this week, we wanted to take little trip into his pack, talk about gear, trail weight, boots etc... We hope you enjoy! Email us at: [email protected] Follow us: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Join …

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103 Thriving in the City - with Jacinta 23:40

8M ago23:40

23:40

Discover how to create bird-friendly gardens in urban areas. In this episode, urban ecologist Dr Jacinta Humphrey shares the challenges that birds face in our cities – from habitat loss to Noisy Miners – and offers practical ways we can support them in our own backyards. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/103-thriving-in-the-c…