The Outdoors Station

This is the first in a series of podcasts from the Outdoor Show over in Friedrichshafen 2010 and we talk to two winners of Gold Awards for Innovation. Andy Utting from Terra Nova regarding the new Laser Ultra 1, a 500gm two skin tent and Wayne Edy from Inov-8 regarding the new Bare-Grip 200. The closest thing to barefoot running you're going to get in 2011. Of equal interest to us was also the Inov-8 EvoSkin, a silicon sleeve which fits over the foot like a second skin. As a slight diversion from all this excitement, we also chat to Ronnie Dodd from TGO Magazine and hear about his passion for wild swimming.

Rose is at it again! After her first taste of a Triathlon last year, we head off to another local 'sprint' event in Worcester on what is forecast to be the hottest day of the year. Her support crew (ie me) keeps the faith, takes pictures and generally passes the time in a very restful manner and taking advantage of a sports massage with Mindy Davvey of www.206therapy.co.uk. Afterwards we chat about the benefits of sports massage for all outdoors users. There also a small piece about sleeping out on Midsummer Hill on Midsummer Night. A simple Bivvy Trip purely to enjoy the pleasures that sleeping in the open can bring. Enjoy!

We catch up with our back log of emails and update you with the latest news regarding previous interviewees. Andy nips down to the big smoke to interview Ben Collins, who is just about to set off on a long walk to a new career. Leaving a top job in the city for the life of an outdoor walking photographer!

Its the beginning of May 2010 and Andy Howell drops by to collect a few goodies and discuss the growing impact wood burning stoves are making in the outdoor world. Specifically we look at the latest Titanium offerings from Evernew in Japan and Vargo in the US. Both items have just arrived in the UK and are combining with others already in the market, to offer more variety in outdoor cooking. As Andy is about head off on the 2 week solo cross Scotland TGOC walk, we also look at the subtle difference, both gear wise and physiologically, there is when walking solo compared to with your domestic partner. Does it mean for a better walking experience? Hope out partners aren't listening!

This is the last release from our collection of interviews recorded at this years Outdoor Show at the NEC. The last time it will ever be there, so it is fitting we should talk not only to exhibitors at the show, but also the MD from Voss Media, the organisers to find out where the show is going and why. Other interviews include Keswick Tourist Information, something specifically for the walker or cyclist thinking of going to Slovenia and another with another author from Cicerone Press, the very interesting Kev Reynolds.

Part 2 from The Outdoors Show at the NEC see's a wealth of information crammed into this podcast. We hear details of the forthcoming Keswick Mountain Festival, about usual 3D metallic map gifts, indulge in a bit of Glamping, chat with Cicerone author Paddy Dillon, catch up with Sam from Shewee, touch base with the forthcoming IOW walking festival and celebrate 10,000 members with the John Muir Trust. Phew! 40 minutes of entertainment to distract you from your daily commute and think about escaping outdoors!

A very mellow show recorded in some glorious Spring sunshine to encourage us to get out there! A brief interview at The Outdoors Show with Evan Milner the project Officer for the Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty about what could draw us self powered people to the island. Plus we talk once again to Gayle of Mick and Gayle Blogspot fame, who are currently walking from Kent to Cape Wrath. A completely different route up the UK and Gayle explains their preparations just before they left a couple of weeks ago.

Just wanted to launch this podcast as soon as I returned from The Outdoors Show at the NEC 2010, as there's a very special offer available just for a few days from Montane, where a select range of Special Edition clothing is up for grabs and all the profits are going to Mountain Rescue. See montane.co.uk. Also I chat with the National Cycle Route Director from Sustrans and we discuss the growth of the National Cycle Network and how we can all use it to benefit our life. Finally Simon Ellar the editor of Bushcraft Magazine indicates the continual of growth of interest in the knowledge base his magazine offers, from outdoors people of all persuasions. It seems we all want to find out more about our surroundings to enhance any experience we have. Quite right too! This is just one of a series recorded at this years Outdoor Show. More coming soon!

In part two of the Solar Cyclists, Susie Wheeldon shares the highs and lows of their 163 days in the saddle. How a simple thing like a bee sting can change your whole outlook on life, and how the Middle East isn't getting a fair representation in main stream media. We discuss practical things like money, health and water, and ultimately hear what impression a trip like this left on her. Make sure you visit the blog site for all the information www.thesolarcyclediaries.com and be prepared to be swept along on the journey.

The one unique aspect of The Outdoors Station, is our ability to freely support people who get out there and do something inspiring. They may not get massive recognition in the main stream media, but we like to honour their efforts, share their journey, hear their passion and respect their achievements, no matter how big or small. One such group of people are the Solar Cyclists, who returned to the UK early 2010 following a 13,000 mile cycle trip, raising funds for Solar Aid and promoting Solar Energy on route. A small team, no back up, minimal gear and just lots of puff! A fantastic story and one which I guarantee will inspire you to do something this year. In part one Susie Wheeldon discusses the planning, the team and how it all came about.