Advertise on podcast: Papa Bear Hikes

Martin welcomes returning guest Jessica Bagnell as she hikes the Pacific Crest Trail with a trail partner, where weather governs tempo and small errors accumulate into consequence. Jessica reflects on the first weeks on trail, when comfort becomes irrelevant and daily life is reduced to judgment, pacing, and mutual reliability. Shared distance exposes character with unusual speed. Jessica and Martin explore companionship, self-command, and why long trails continue to attract people who distrust the false satisfactions of modern ease. Follow Jessica Bagnell’s adventures here → @jcababy814 Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Papa Bear Hikes Podcast with host Martin welcomes returning guest and friend of the show, Ben “Paladin” Cox. A life shaped through hiking, backpacking, and environmental stewardship informs Cox’s perspective, grounded in sustained engagement with the outdoors rather than occasional escape. Service within the thru hiking community and long trail experience reinforce a consistent ethic of responsibility toward land, wildlife, and shared spaces. Cox shares field tested insight alongside several remarkable upcoming expeditions that carry the scale and intention of true once in a lifetime pursuits. Discussion moves beyond surface level outdoor culture into conservation, ethical harvest, and the discipline required to live in alignment with the natural world. Follow Ben’s journey and upcoming expeditions on Instagram @bencox357. Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Martin welcomes Darren Silver to Papa Bear Hikes for a grounded conversation on wilderness as teacher, rites of passage in the modern world, and how nature shapes purpose, resilience, and leadership. Darren Silver, MA is a rite of passage guide, mythologist, and founder of Great Earth School, a yearlong experiential program rooted in nature based leadership, ritual, and deep relationship to land. With nearly two decades of experience guiding vision quests, wilderness immersions, and transformational retreats across the world, Darren works with people seeking clarity of purpose, belonging, and a more aligned way of living. This episode explores how wild places support mental wellness and balance on and off the trail, why modern culture lacks meaningful rites of passage, and what initiation can look like today. Darren shares insights on modern masculinity, nature informed leadership, dreamwork, and ancestral wisdom, weaving myth and lived experience into a vision of personal and collective transformation grounded in relationship to the Earth. The conversation invites hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and seekers alike to consider wilderness not as escape, but as a profound guide for living with presence, responsibility, and gratitude. Follow Darren and explore his work Website https://www.darrensilver.com Great Earth School https://www.greatearthschool.com Podcast The Return with Darren Silver https://www.darrensilver.com/podcast Instagram https://www.instagram.com/darrensilver Retreats and programs https://www.greatearthschool.com/programs Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Papa Bear Hikes welcomes Brent and Kyle Pease, co-founders of The Kyle Pease Foundation and two of the most inspiring endurance athletes in the country. Together they have completed more than one hundred fifty endurance races, raised ten million dollars for inclusion, and set the IRONMAN World Championship Push Assist World Record. Their journey of brotherhood and purpose has moved audiences at Google, Under Armour, and 29029 Everest, and their message resonates far beyond the finish line. They speak with honesty about overcoming barriers, navigating invisible disabilities, and building a life defined by possibility rather than limitation. Listeners will come away energized and grounded in a clearer sense of what human connection and determination can accomplish.  Support Brent and Kyle Pease and the mission of true inclusion in endurance sports. Learn more at https://kylepeasefoundation.org. Get involved or donate at https://kylepeasefoundation.org/getinvolved. Follow their work on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheKylePeaseFoundation and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thekylepeasefoundation. Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Martin welcomes back Rue McKenrick back to Papa Bear Hikes. A favorite guest of the show, Rue returns to talk about the latest volume in his American Perimeter Trail series, Volume 1 West: A 14,000 Mile Journey. McKenrick is a professional backpacker, conservationist, and Executive Director of the American Perimeter Trail Conference. After completing the Triple Crown of Backpacking, he spent three years walking the perimeter of the United States to scout what would become the 15000 mile American Perimeter Trail. During this episode, Rue recounts moments from the trail rarely captured on maps or in mileage logs, including being detained, navigating hostile encounters, tornadoes and experiencing gunfire along the route. These experiences reveal the unpredictable human and environmental challenges faced while traversing the country’s edge on foot. Follow Rue McKenrick for ongoing updates from the American Perimeter Trail and behind the scenes insight into long distance conservation work, and purchase American Perimeter Trail: Volume 1 West: A 14,000 Mile Journey to support the project and explore the full story in depth. All links, including where to buy the book, are available on his Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ruemckenrick/. Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Papa Bear Hikes welcomes Christopher Hill, founder of the luxury philanthropic travel companies Hands Up Holidays and Impact Destinations. Christopher joins Martin Hysot to explore how purposeful travel can strengthen families and communities through experiences that unite adventure with meaningful service. He shares how living in New Zealand with his wife, two sons, and dog Zola shapes his global outlook and inspires his mission to design travel that leaves a lasting impact. Listeners will learn how he builds eco luxury journeys that help travelers explore the world while giving back in thoughtful and measurable ways. Follow Christopher Hill and explore his work  Hands Up Holidays: https://handsupholidays.com Impact Destinations: https://impactdestinations.com Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Papa Bear Hikes welcomes back guest Adam Salinger, whose long trail history and steady backcountry judgment always elevate the conversation. Martin guides the episode as Adam talks through the eastern Sierras with clear, grounded insight, reflecting on route choices, conditions, pacing, and the small decisions that shape a safe, satisfying day outdoors. Their easy rapport keeps the discussion warm and engaging while giving listeners usable perspective for their own hikes. Follow Adam on Instagram at @dreamer2000at for more of his trail updates and adventures. Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Guest Neil Markey joins host Martin for a grounded conversation about mental wellbeing, resilience, and the realities of finding calm after high-pressure lives. A former Army Ranger who later entered the corporate world as a McKinsey executive, Neil speaks openly about post-combat PTSD, burnout, and the long path toward rebuilding a workable inner life. He describes how these experiences led him to Beckley Retreats, a legal psilocybin program that integrates modern research with meditation, mindful movement, and intentional time outdoors. The episode explores the challenges of high-functioning burnout, the limits of performance culture, and the struggle veterans and leaders face when trying to reenter ordinary life with their nervous systems still wired for crisis. Martin guides a candid discussion about what actually supports post-traumatic growth and what often fails to help. Neil offers practical insights from his work with both veterans and civilians, emphasizing embodied practices, transparency, and the discipline required to heal without shortcuts. Listeners looking for an honest, science-informed approach to resilience will find this conversation steady, thoughtful, and deeply human. To learn more about Neil’s work: beckleyretreats.com | @beckleyretreats Book a call with me Connect with me on LinkedIn    Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Host Martin welcomes Shawn Gossman, founder of Hiking with Shawn, a brand devoted to hiking, biking, and outdoor adventure across the Shawnee National Forest and Southern Illinois. What began as a fun personal project in 2016 has evolved into a thriving platform that inspires thousands to explore responsibly, appreciate nature, and support local outdoor spaces. Through YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and X, Shawn brings the beauty of Southern Illinois to life, one trail, one story, and one adventure at a time. Be sure to follow Shawn’s adventures and discover the trails of Southern Illinois by subscribing to his YouTube channel at youtube.com/@hikingwithshawn, following him on Instagram at instagram.com/hikingwithshawn, and visiting his website at hikingwithshawn.com. Watch, explore, and get inspired to hit the trail. #PapaBearHikes #HikingWithShawn #ShawneeNationalForest #SouthernIllinois #OutdoorAdventure #TrailLife #HikingCommunity Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

In this episode of Papa Bear Hikes, host Martin Armitage introduces Ben Brown, founder of Body Systems and host of The Smart Nutrition Made Simple Show. Ben shares how men can rebuild lasting energy and strength in their 40s and beyond by understanding their body’s unique blueprint. With over 15 years of experience and dual Master’s degrees in Exercise Physiology and Clinical Nutrition, he explains the hidden costs of overtraining and burnout, why most diets fail, and how to create a sustainable system for lifelong health. Featured on major networks and consultant to elite sports teams, Ben offers practical insights for anyone ready to thrive at any age. Connect with him and learn more through his Body Systems website, Spotify, Instagram, and YouTube. Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Martin welcomes back friend and returning guest Adam Salinger. In this conversation, Adam shares stories from his recent adventure: the Sawtooth Loop, a demanding route that tested his endurance and rewarded him with unforgettable views. Adam reflects on the challenges, the solitude, and the awe that keep drawing him deeper into the wilderness. Listeners will come away inspired by Adam’s resilience, his dedication to outdoor education, and his belief in the transformative power of wild places.  🌐 Follow Adam’s adventures at adamstreks.com         and on Instagram @dreamer2000at .  Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Host Martin welcomes Hillary, a marketer from Brooklyn with roots in the Poconos of Pennsylvania. A passionate traveler, Hillary seizes every opportunity to explore, from the energy of bustling city streets to the stillness of the world’s most remote corners. What makes her journey unique is her mission to bring others along, inspiring friends and family to share in experiences that create lasting memories. In this episode, Hillary shares how she channels her professional planning and organizational skills into crafting unforgettable trips. From coordinating group vacations with different personalities and schedules to sparking inspiration for those seeking solo adventures, she offers practical advice and a fresh perspective for anyone ready to step out of the routine. Whether you are dreaming of your next big getaway or looking for a way to connect with others through travel, Hillary’s insights will help you reimagine what adventure can look like. Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

Friend of the podcast Dr. Robert Scanlon joins host Martin to talk about preparation as the ultimate survival skill. A physician, backpacker, and author of the upcoming book Surviving the Trail (launching September 2025), Dr. Scanlon shares practical safety tips and insights for anyone looking to thrive on the trail. Pre-order Surviving the Trail and get ready to make every outdoor adventure safer and more rewarding.🌲🥾📚🏕️🗻🚶‍♂️🔥🧭🏞️🌄 Ready to master the trail? Pre-order Surviving the Trail: Five Essential Skills to Prepare Every Hiker for Adventure’s Most Common Perils by Dr. Rob Scanlon today and start your next outdoor journey with confidence. Get your copy here. Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

On this episode of the Papa Bear Hikes podcast, host Martin welcomes James Oliver, lifelong hiker and founder of Atlas, a company dedicated to clean, convenient, high-protein nutrition. James shares how his journey on the trail shaped his approach to endurance, wellness, and the importance of fueling with intention. Today, through Atlas, he’s helping others push their limits and thrive with nutrition designed for adventure. Explore Atlas flavors including Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip and other delicious varieties: atlasbars.com Follow Atlas:  TikTok: @atlasbars Facebook: Atlas Bars Instagram: @atlasbars Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/

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 guiding people to live in alignment with their spirit. Born in Australia and now living in Glastonbury, UK, Rebecca has been working with the rose and other plants since 2010 and has experienced several initiatory awakenings. Before sharing her visions through books and oracle decks, she was an award-winning creative director. She is the author of Rise Sister Rise, Letters to a Starseed, Light Is The New Black, and the oracle decks The Work Your Light Oracle, The Rose Oracle, and The Starseed Oracle. Her work has been featured in Oprah.com, Vogue, Psychologies Magazine, Kindred Spirit, and more. Connect with Rebecca:  www.rebeccacampbell.me Instagram Facebook Discover Rebecca Campbell’s powerful new book Your Soul Had a Dream, Your Life Is It: How to Be Held by Life When It Feels Like Everything Is Falling Apart. This soulful guide will help you find meaning, strength, and connection through life’s most challenging seasons. Get your copy today: Your Soul Had a Dream, Your Life Is It 🌿✨ Avalon Publicity & Business Services Increasing the Digital Footprint of Content Creators via Modern Publicity and Social Media Services Support the show Get outside, have fun and be safe! Martin Armitage,  Host of the Papa Bear Hikes Podcast https://www.papabearhikes.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/papa-bear-hikes/id1541491746 https://www.instagram.com/papabearhikes01/