The Trail Less Traveled

Discover the remarkable story of how a Greek immigrant's fruit stand in early 1900s Missoula blossomed into Caras Nursery, a thriving family business spanning over 100 years. Bill Caras shares heartwarming tales of growing up in a close-knit community during the 1950s and 60s, where childhood adventures and family values shaped his future.

Beyond the nursery, Bill reveals his passion for historical maps, sharing insights into rare cartographic treasures dating back to the 1500s. His collection offers fascinating glimpses into Montana's early development and the evolution of the American West.

Join us for this captivating episode that weaves together family heritage, entrepreneurial spirit, and the deep roots that connect one family to their community.

Show notes:

00:04:18 - Family Business Transitions and Expansion

00:06:43 - Returning to the Family Nursery

00:08:43 - From Nursery Catalogs to Greek Roots

00:11:24 - Family's Fruit Store and Nursery History

00:13:05 - Childhood Home and Family History

00:17:21 - Exploring Montana's Evolving Maps

00:18:46 - Exploring Ancient Maps and Their History

00:21:12 - Antique Maps: A Fascinating History

00:24:56 - Exploring the Vibrant World of Plants

00:26:38 - Balancing Nature and Deer in the Garden

00:30:00 - Caring for Outdoor Plants: Watering, Pests, and Avoiding Damage

00:34:09 - Native Plants and Landscaping Choices

00:38:14 - Preserving Missoula's Spirit Through Kindness and Optimism

00:40:14 - Advice for a Positive Life from a Nursery Owner

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretrave #carasnursery #plantlovers #botany #billcaras

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Ramona Holt grew up in Montana’s ranching and rodeo scene, participating in youth, intercollegiate and professional rodeo. As an adult, she dedicated her life to promoting the western way of living, and for 30 years Ramona and her husband, Bill, traveled throughout the western United States, Canada and Australia promoting professional rodeo and the West. They started their own herd of Texas Longhorn Cattle in 1967 and were the first to export those cattle from the U.S. to Australia in 1985—leading to the government honoring them at an exposition in 1986 in Mackay, Australia.

Today, as a trustee representing Western Montana for the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame and Western Heritage Center, Ramona recommends people and ranches to be honored each year. In 2018, the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association honored her as the “Notable Lady of the West” at their World of Rodeo Reunion in Las Vegas. Her life has been dedicated to telling the story of the western way through many avenues including the creation of the Holt Heritage Museum—located in Lolo and open by appointment only—which houses rodeo and western artifacts, including 20 horse-drawn vehicles. 

Show notes:

00:03:10 - Growing Up on a Remote Ranch

00:06:26 - A Life in Fisheries and Rodeo

00:10:15 - Raising Money for Nonprofits through Art Shows

00:12:36 - Exporting Longhorn Cattle to Australia

00:14:46 - Grandchildren, Elders, and the Legacy of Lewis and Clark

00:18:03 - Lewis and Clark's Military Camp Setup

00:21:00 - Friendly Natives Aided Lewis and Clark

00:23:48 - Cultivating Small-Scale Sustainability

00:26:53 - Rich History of Indigenous Peoples in the Valley

00:31:27 - Polywog Shirts and Nez Perce Artifacts

00:34:11 - Preserving Native Traditions: Cornmeal and Moss Bags

00:36:36 - Preserving the Valley's Heritage

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• Please help us keep the podcast ad free by donating $3/month via PATREON. We really need your help, as of right now we are only brining in $79/month in donations.

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #ramonaholt #montanarodeo #montanaranch #montanaranching #montanacowgirl #cowgirl #montanahistory

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Dr. Diane Boyd is a wildlife biologist who has 45+ years of applied expertise on behavior, conservation and management of wild wolf populations. She is the author of "A Woman Among Wolves: My Journey Through Forty Years of Wolf Recovery." 

• She began her career in 1977 with Dr. L. David Mech’s wolf research project in Minnesota. She moved to Montana in 1979 to study gray wolf recovery in the Rocky Mountains from the first natural colonizer to approximately 2000 wolves today in the western U.S. Her work has focused on wolf ecology, dispersal, habitat use, prey selection, behavior, morphology, genetic relationships, and the social dimensions of wolf-human conflict resolution. She has collaborated on research in the Rocky Mountains of the U.S., British Columbia, Alberta, the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program, and wolf research projects in Italy and Romania. She has published numerous articles in scientific journals, invited book chapters, and articles in popular literature. She received her M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Montana, and is presently an Affiliate Faculty member at the University of Montana. Diane recently retired from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks as the Region 1 Wolf and Carnivore Specialist, but she is continuing her wolf conservation efforts on a broader scale through teaching and writing. You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.

Show Notes:

00:02:54 - Discovering Wolves in the Wild

00:05:20 - From Wildlife Biologist to Wolf Researcher: A Journey

00:07:56 - Discovering the Rugged Beauty of Glacier National Park

00:10:54 - Lone Wolf Survivor in Montana

00:12:30 - The Wolves' Natural Migration to Montana

00:14:36 - Wolves Roaming from Montana to Yellowstone

00:16:59 - Wolves' Vocal Repertoire and Tracking Techniques

00:20:46 - Saving a Hypothermic Wolf

00:22:54 - Rescuing a Drugged Wolf in the Rain

00:25:39 - Debunking the Wolf Relocation Myth

00:27:33 - Comparing European and North American Wolves

00:29:59 - Wolves: Misunderstood Neighbors

00:32:06 - Coexisting with Wolves: Balancing Livestock and Ecosystem Needs

00:36:08 - Wolves and Other Predators in the Ecosystem

00:37:23 - Weaving Science, Ecology, and Resilience

00:39:30 - Preventing Chronic Wasting Disease in Montana

• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!

#travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #adventuretravel #dianeboyd #wolves #wolf #wolfconservation #glaciernationalpark #yellowstonenationalpark

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Marilyn Marler holds a Bachelor's degree from University of California, Davis and a Master's degree from the University of Montana, both in Biology. She has been a Natural Areas Specialist at the University of Montana since 1998. Marilyn brings 25 years’ experience in land stewardship, science education, and public service to her role at MNHC. She grew up in the Sierra Nevada foothills, attended UC Davis for her biology degree, and moved to Missoula in 1994 for a master’s in biology at the University of Montana. For the last 28 years Marilyn and her husband David have enjoyed Missoula’s vibrant community spirit and Montana’s unmatched outdoor pursuits. She has served on the boards of many state and local non-profits and has served in elected office in both city and state government.

Show notes:

00:04:28 - Growing Up in the Sierra Nevada Foothills

00:07:02 - Hunting, Conservation, and Personal Journey

00:10:39 - The Role of Hunters in Conservation

00:12:24 - Promoting Nature Appreciation Through Education

00:14:58 - Free Nature Exploration for Young Kids

00:17:57 - Embracing Native Plants and Art Exploration

00:20:07 - The Benefits of Membership

00:23:22 - Life as a Montana Legislator

00:26:01 - The Hectic Life of a Legislator

00:28:25 - Passion for Native Plants and Land Stewardship

00:31:22 - The Fragile Beauty of Montana's Wildflowers

00:33:07 - Appreciating Nature in Missoula

00:35:09 - Fostering Nature Connection through Classroom Mentorship

00:38:28 - Inspiring the Next Generation of Nature Stewards

00:41:02 - Montana Natural History Center Staff and Board share their Passion

• You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.
• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• This episode was recorded on location in collaboration with Xplorer Maps. We want to extend boatloads of gratitude to Xplorer Maps for their generous support of this podcast and international outreach programs paired with conservation projects.
• #travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #MONTANA #ecology #hunting #conservation #MontanaNaturalHistoryCenter #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #haines #adventuretravel

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Bart Henderson, a retired international river guide, shares his experiences growing up in Utah and being part of the early river rafting industry. He describes how the town of Vernal and the Green River were central to the development of companies like Hatch River Expeditions, which pioneered commercial rafting. Bart's early exposure to the river guiding business sparked his lifelong passion for adventure and exploration, leading him to guide expeditions in diverse ecosystems around the world, from Alaska to Ethiopia.

Experience the thrills and challenges of navigating remote waterways, from battling powerful winds to managing wildlife encounters, as Bart shares insights from decades of guiding experience across diverse ecosystems. His story culminates in the successful establishment of Chilkat Guides, proving that adventure tourism can breathe new life into local economies.

Join us for this fascinating journey through the history of river rafting and discover how one man's passion for adventure helped chart new courses in global expedition tourism.

Listen now to hear firsthand accounts of these remarkable river adventures that shaped modern expedition rafting.

Show notes:

00:07:46 - From River Kid to Boatman

00:10:33 - Pioneering International River Guiding

00:13:08 - Exploring the Gaba River: A Risky Adventure

00:15:09 - Harrowing Rescue Mission on the Alsek River

00:19:21 - Navigating the Alsek River: Challenges and Logistics

00:21:33 - Guiding on Whitewater Rivers: Challenges and Rewards

00:24:46 - Navigating the Unique Challenges of Glacial River Guiding

00:27:36 - Mastering the Portagee Stroke: Efficient Rowing Techniques

00:29:47 - Navigating Braided Rivers and Dangerous Channels

00:33:45 - Navigating Treacherous River Channels

00:36:45 - Pioneering River Guiding Across the Globe

00:38:27 - Advice for Aspiring River Guides: Have Fun, Take Care of Your Body, and Plan for the Future!

• You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.
• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• This episode was recorded on location in collaboration with Xplorer Maps. We want to extend boatloads of gratitude to Xplorer Maps for their generous support of this podcast and international outreach programs paired with conservation projects.
• #travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast #alaska #alsek #tatshenshini #whitewaterrafting #rafting #whitewater #storytelling #adventure #travel #traillesstraveled #missoula #haines #adventuretravel

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Step into the fascinating world of mountain lions with Jim Williams, a veteran wildlife biologist with over 30 years of experience in large carnivore conservation. Often referred to as the "ghosts of the forest", in this episode Jim shares captivating insights about these magnificent predators that roam the Americas.

Through his remarkable career journey, Jim has championed wildlife conservation efforts in the Northern Rockies, fighting to protect crucial habitats from increasing development pressures. His work has been instrumental in securing conservation easements that preserve both public access and wildlife corridors, especially during the recent pandemic-driven population surge in the region.

The episode delves into mountain lions' unique hunting strategies, their solitary nature, and their ability to thrive across diverse landscapes. Jim also addresses common misconceptions about large carnivores and shares wisdom gained from decades of field experience. Ready to discover the secret life of America's most enigmatic big cat? Tune in to hear Jim's extraordinary tales from the wild and learn why these powerful predators deserve our respect and protection.

Show notes:

00:03:05 - From Surfing to Conservation

00:04:37 - Diverse Wildlife Management Roles in Montana

00:07:30 - Preserving Land and Sharing Conservation Experiences

00:12:47 - Conserving Vital Landscapes for Wildlife and People

00:16:58 - Introducing the Elusive Mountain Lion

00:20:13 - Risks and Realities of Mountain Lion Hunting

00:24:35 - Respecting the Role of Large Carnivores

00:27:01 - How Wolves Impact Mountain Lion Hunting Patterns

00:30:15 - Ecological Benefits of Large Carnivores

00:32:57 - Connecting People and Place with Xplorer Maps

00:35:32 - Preserving Wildlife Corridors Through Private Land Conservation

00:41:55 - Coexisting with Mountain Lions in Montana

00:44:46 - Balancing Tolerance and Conservation

00:48:09 - Don't Take No for an Answer: Advice for Persistence and Positivity

00:49:50 - Prioritize Your Stress Wisely

• You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.
• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• This episode was recorded on location in collaboration with Xplorer Maps. We want to extend boatloads of gratitude to Xplorer Maps for their generous support of this podcast and international outreach programs paired with conservation projects. #travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #conservationpodcast #podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover how a small Montana city became a thriving hub of culture, entrepreneurship, and community connection. From the iconic Big Dipper Ice Cream celebrating its 30th anniversary to the bustling Caras Park hosting over 100 community events annually, downtown Missoula exemplifies the perfect blend of historical preservation and modern vibrancy.

Linda McCarthy, Executive Director of the Downtown Missoula Partnership, shares how Missoula has evolved into a pedestrian-friendly destination where strangers still greet each other on the street. The city's commitment to inclusivity shines through initiatives like zero-fare public transportation and free community events.

The "hip strip" showcases the entrepreneurial spirit of local businesses, while the University of Montana adds a dynamic educational dimension. Whether it's exploring the farmers markets, enjoying outdoor recreation, or sampling unique local flavors at Big Dipper Ice Cream, Missoula offers what Teresa Cox describes as "not just a place to make a living, but a place to make a life."

Listen to this episode to experience the authentic charm of a city where community connection and innovation create something truly special.

SHOW NOTES:

00:02:35 - Revitalizing Downtown Missoula

00:05:25 - Exploring Missoula's Rich History and Vibrant Downtown

00:07:35 - Missoula's Vibrant Downtown Events and Initiatives

00:12:28 - Preserving Missoula's Community Spirit

00:14:05 - Celebrating Missoula's Vibrant Arts and Culture

00:17:27 - Exploring Missoula's Free and Affordable Attractions

00:24:46 - Favorite Ice Cream Flavors and Missoula's Huckleberry

00:27:01 - Appreciating Missoula's Unique Outdoors and Music Scene

00:30:46 - The Thousand Islands Map and Explorer Maps

00:33:18 - Missoula's Carousel Dream Takes Shape

00:36:00 - The Missoula Carousel: From Humble Beginnings to Community Treasure

00:38:20 - Creating a Magical Playground with Children's Input

00:40:57 - Carousel Horses: Personalized Designs and Time Capsules

00:43:15 - Pennies for Ponies: Raising Funds for a Carousel

• You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.
• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• This episode was recorded on location in collaboration with Xplorer Maps. We want to extend boatloads of gratitude to Xplorer Maps for their generous support of this podcast and international outreach programs paired with conservation projects.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Puchlerz is married with two children, two grandchildren, and three English setters. Retired after 38 years with the U.S. Forest Service as a biologist and administrator with assignments in Montana, Wyoming, Oregon, Washington and Alaska, Tom is a member of numerous local and national wildlife and fisheries conservation organizations. He is an avid hunter, angler, and advocate for wild places and wild things. Tom is a past president and current board member for the Montana Wildlife Federation. You can become a member of the Montana Wildlife Federation for $35 per year! Click HERE to become a member today!

• You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.
• Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at TrailLessTraveled.net and be sure to check out our visual series on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.
• The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at Trail1033.com & locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM
• Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!
• This episode was recorded on location in collaboration with Xplorer Maps. We want to extend boatloads of gratitude to Xplorer Maps for their generous support of this podcast and international outreach programs paired with conservation projects.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Patrick Farneman is the executive director of Bridges to the Past, the non-profit parent organization that hosts the annual "Between the Rivers" skills gathering near Valley, Washington. Patrick has been published in Survival Quarterly Magazine, and in The Bulletin of Primitive Technology. He has been an instructor at Rabbitstick, Wintercount, Echoes in Time, and Saskatoon Circle Gatherings, and has taught classes in ancestral skills privately and for multiple organizations for over 30 years.

Learn more here: https://www.betweentheriversgathering.com/

You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.

#travel #adventure #adventuretravel #travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #adventureradio #traillesstraveled #thetraillesstraveled #missoula #missoulamontana #storytelling #podcast #wildlifeconservation #conservation #conservationpodcast

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Moses Chiguta has been guiding professionally for the past 25 years. He currently works as a guide for Chiawa Camp, located on the banks of the Zambezi River, under a grove of evergreen Mahogany trees. Chiawa Camp holds the prime position in the heart of Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park.

You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on Patreon! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.

#travel #adventure #adventuretravel #travelpodcast #adventurepodcast #adventureradio #traillesstraveled #thetraillesstraveled #missoula #missoulamontana #storytelling #podcast #wildlifeconservation #conservation #conservationpodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.