
Papa Bear Hikes
Papa Bear Hikes is a Podcast for Nature Lovers & Outdoor Enthusiasts. Network/Artist: Martin Armitage is the author of Switching Gears: Rediscovering the Meaning of Life, Love, and Happiness While Backpacking Vermont’s Long Trail, and recipient of the WHITNEY YOUNG, JR. AWARD. *Presented By: Buzzsprout* Producer: Wendy A. Lawrence *Host: Martin Armitage *Edited By: Big Bear Studios *Show Notes: Wendy A. Lawrence *For Media Inquiries email: wendy@avalonbusiness.org *The Papa Bear Hikes podcast is a GLOBAL iTunes fan favorite in multiple categories and has a Global Ranking in the top 1%!
Episodes
491 episodes
Awakening to Soul and Nature’s Wisdom with Rebecca Campbell
On this episode of the Papa Bear Hikes podcast, host Martin welcomes Rebecca Campbell, an internationally bestselling writer, poet, mystic, artist, ritualist, and mother. Her work is devoted to weaving the soul back into everyday life and guidi...
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Season 4
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Episode 177
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30:18

Breaking Limits with Howard Falco: The Mindset of Infinite Potential
On this episode of Papa Bear Hikes, host Martin welcomes Howard Falco, a spiritual teacher and mindset coach who left a successful career in finance after a life-changing awakening. Howard shares powerful insights from his new book, Invinci...
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Season 4
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Episode 176
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46:22

From Wall Street to Wilderness: Ken Posner’s Journey Through the Grid
In this episode, Martin talks with Ken Posner about his shift from Wall Street life to mountain trails, where he took on the brutal and beautiful Catskill "Grid"—a challenge requiring over 400 ascents across every month of the year. What began ...
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Season 4
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Episode 175
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1:06:36

Wild Rivers and Desert Legends with Jon Barker of Barker River Expeditions
In this episode, Martin welcomes outfitter and river guide Jon Barker for his first appearance on the podcast. Jon is the founder of Barker River Expeditions and has spent over 40 years navigating Idaho’s remote rivers. For the past 25 years, h...
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Season 4
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Episode 174
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35:30

Life Without Limits: Dr. Sean Pastuch on Redefining Wellness
Host Martin Armitage welcomes Dr. Sean Pastuch, founder of Active Life, whose groundbreaking approach is transforming how we think about health, movement, and longevity. Rather than relying on quick fixes or unnecessary medical interventions, D...
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Season 4
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Episode 173
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52:56

Walking the Line: A Return Conversation with Ben “Paladin” Cox
This week on Papa Bear Hikes, host Martin welcomes back listener favorite Ben “Paladin” Cox. A husband, father, hiker, environmentalist, hunter, fisherman, and world traveler, Ben joins us once again to share stories, reflections...
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Season 4
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Episode 172
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52:33

Healthy Trail Snacks on a Dollar Store Budget – Revisited
Aaron returns to the show to share her expert insight as a licensed nutritionist and founder of Backcountry Foodie, focusing on how hikers can fuel their adventures with healthy, ultralight snacks—without overspending. Drawing from her extensiv...
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Season 4
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Episode 171
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35:28

From Carson City to Canada: Audrey "Glowstick" Payne's PCT Adventure
Host Martin welcomes back fan favorite Audrey “Glowstick” Payne, a seasoned thru hiker, blogger, and author, for an inspiring update on her latest long distance journey: trekking from Carson City to Canada along the Pacific Crest Trail. Audrey ...
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Season 4
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Episode 170
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49:35

Walking the Camino of California with Backcountry Pilgrim
In this episode of Papa Bear Hikes, host Martin welcomes Doug Beaumont, the California-based adventurer behind the popular YouTube channel, Backcountry Pilgrim. With decades of experience exploring the backcountry, Doug shares insights...
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Season 4
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Episode 169
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35:31

Author, Founder, Trailblazer: A Conversation with Giovanna Silvestre
In this empowering episode of Papa Bear Hikes, host Martin chats with Giovanna Silvestre—📚 author, 🌎 solo traveler, 🧘🏻♀️ and the visionary behind Confused Girl, a trailblazing sportswear line inspired by healing crystals. Fea...
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Season 4
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Episode 168
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52:57

A 5K Morning: Martin Hits the Pavement
In today’s episode, Martin talks about his recent 5K race experience. He shares how it fit into his regular fitness routine, what the event was like, and why staying active off the trail matters. It was a fun, straightforward morning that remin...
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Season 4
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Episode 167
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12:54

After the Storm: Katie "Oats" Houston on Resilience and Rebuilding in Asheville
Host Martin welcomes back solo thru-hiker and outdoor advocate Katie “Oats” Houston, whose 3,000+ miles on trail and deep ties to the hiking community make her a familiar voice to Papa Bear Hikes listeners. This episode takes a personal turn as...
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Season 4
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Episode 166
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31:03

Trails and Silver Screens: Martin's 10k and Naomi Watts' Cinematic Adventure
In this captivating episode of Papa Bear Hikes, join host Martin as he recounts his recent 10k run, sharing not just the physical exertion but also the mental resilience required to complete it. Alongside his adventure, Martin intriguingly touc...
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Season 4
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Episode 165
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7:57

Unplugged and Outdoors: Finding Balance, Caution, and Connection with Matt Landry
In this thoughtful episode of Papa Bear Hikes, host Martin welcomes back fan-favorite Matt Landry. Together, they explore deeper topics tied to life on and off the trail. The conversation also turns toward the importance of adapting hikes as we...
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Season 4
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Episode 164
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1:02:34

Trail Tales and Courtroom Yarns: A Conversation with Brian Livingston
Welcome back to the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast! In this episode, host Martin reunites with returning guest, Brian Livingston, a seasoned hiker, author, and former trial attorney. Born and raised in Marietta, Georgia, Brian shares his journey from ...
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Season 4
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Episode 163
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28:43

Fighting Bugs with Science: Permethrin and Outdoor Safety
Join host Martin on Papa Bear Hikes as he delves into the innovative world of permethrin with Katie "Oats" Houston from Sawyer, renowned for their effective water filters and outdoor protection technologies. This episode illuminates the science...
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Season 4
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Episode 162
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25:34

Diversity Education In Nature (DEIN) - The Earth as a Role Model for Building Diversity and Belonging
Join Martin, the host of the Papa Bear Hikes podcast, and his guest Dan Kriesberg, co-creator of DEIN, as they delve into the fascinating approach of Diversity Education In Nature. This innovative method merges outdoor education with reflective...
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Season 4
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Episode 161
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37:16

Run with Kindness: The BE KIND VIRTUAL 5K/10K Challenge
Join host Martin on this episode of Papa Bear Hikes as he highlights the BE KIND VIRTUAL 5K/10K, an event that encourages runners, walkers, and hikers to get outside and move—anytime, anywhere! Whether you hit your favorite tr...
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Season 4
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Episode 160
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10:31

Smart Shopping: When to Buy Your Outdoor Gear
In this episode of Papa Bear Hikes, Martin dives into the important topic of when to buy your outdoor gear. Timing can make a big difference when it comes to saving money and finding the best equipment for your adventures. From seasonal sales t...
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Season 4
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Episode 159
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10:58

Running Wild: Trail Tales with Adam Salinger
In this inspiring episode of Papa Bear Hikes, host Martin welcomes back his good friend and seasoned adventurer, Adam Salinger. A husband, dad, and avid explorer, Adam has hiked an astonishing 30,000 miles into wild places and back aga...
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Season 4
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Episode 158
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56:17

Unbelievable Utah: Exploring the Wonders of the Beehive State
In this inspiring episode of Papa Bear Hikes, host Martin welcomes Mark and Lisa, a dynamic duo who discovered their love for hiking later in life. Mark, a seasoned physical educator with over 30 years of experience, a...
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Season 4
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Episode 157
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58:25

Exploring the Open Road with Susan
In this episode of Papa Bear Hikes, host Martin talks with Susan, a 69-year-old retired hairdresser, about her love for life on the road with her husband, Jim. Susan, who has lived in Florida four different times, shar...
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Season 4
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Episode 156
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36:17

Looking Back: Gratitude, Reflections, and A Walk in the Woods
As we kick off the new year, Martin takes a moment to reflect on the incredible adventures, stories, and insights shared on Papa Bear Hikes over the past year. He extends heartfelt thanks to Outdoor Vitals for their co...
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Season 4
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Episode 155
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11:58

Embracing Winter Wherever You Are
Join Martin on this invigorating episode of the Papa Bear Hikes podcast as we dive into the chilly start to winter. Martin shares essential tips for braving the cold and making the most out of your winter outdoor adventures. Special men...
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Season 4
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Episode 154
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12:12

Celebrating 4 Years of Papa Bear Hikes!
Join host Martin as he celebrates the 4-year anniversary of Papa Bear Hikes! In this special episode, Martin reflects on the incredible journey of the podcast, from its humble beginnings to becoming a go-to resource for outd...
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Season 4
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Episode 153
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10:47
