Trail Listening Post

In this episode of The Trail Listening Post, we welcome into the studio May Pang, John Lennon's companion and lover during his "Lost Weekend" era, which lasted 18 months during late 1973 through 1975. During this highly creative time for Lennon, Pang took candid photos of Lennon in a comfortable, relaxed environment. We discussed her intimate photos, her experiences with John Lennon and other musicians, as well as the digital release of the feature film and documentary, "The Lost Weekend: A Love Story".

A collection of these private photographs will be on display and available for purchase at L.A. Design, 337 E. Broadway St, Missoula MT on Monday, July 13 - Wednesday, June 15. This exhibition will provide fans a rare opportunity to see John Lennon in a new light, through the lens of someone who knew him intimately during one of the most creative periods of his life. Stop by, admire these intimate photos and chat with May Pang herself. 

Skateboarding is about so much more than tricks; it's about community, creativity, and creating opportunities for the next generation. Mike Smith welcomes Andy Kemmis and Chris Bacon back to the Trail 103.3 studio to talk about the growing impact of Montana's skateboarding scene.

The conversation covers the acclaimed documentary Montana Grind, Andy's photography book Grit to Grind, and how skateparks across Montana are transforming communities from Browning to Big Sandy and beyond. Andy and Chris also preview the grand opening of the new Philipsburg Skatepark during the "Shred the Ribbon" celebration, featuring special guest Jeff Ament of Pearl Jam, skate demos, clinics, and a full day of community events. Along the way, they share stories about the Montana Skatepark Association, the friendships and inclusivity that define skateboarding culture, and why Montana has become a destination for skateboarders from around the country.

Whether you're a lifelong skater or simply love hearing stories about people making a positive difference in Montana, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

Mike Smith welcomes Hannah Shepherd from Splash Montana into the Trail Studio to celebrate a major milestone- 20 years of making a splash in Missoula. Hannah shares the story behind Splash Montana’s history, highlights the features that have made it a favorite summer destination, including the Olympic-sized 50-meter pool, water slides, lazy river, and family-friendly zero-depth entry area. The conversation also dives into the special 20th anniversary celebration, featuring daily events like Beach Ball Blast, Marco Polo scavenger hunts, water volleyball, cornhole, and the Splash Big Slam featuring cannonball, diving, and sliding competitions.

Plus, Hannah talks about lifeguard training, water safety tips, and the best ways for families to enjoy time together in and around the water.

Tune in for a fun conversation celebrating two decades of summer memories at Splash Montana!

This episode of The Trail Listening Post features a special live performance from Missoula's own "Milk Made". The band stopped by the Trail studio to play a couple of songs, share the stories behind their music, and talk about their creative journey as a Missoula-based band.

The conversation also highlights their show tonight at Leaf & Quiet, where they'll take the stage at 7:00 PM. Whether you're already a fan or discovering Milk Made for the first time, this episode offers an intimate look at the band through live music and conversation- as well as a tease for their upcoming record!

Stay up to date with Milk Made through their socials, "milkmademt".

A behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming Woodtick Music Festival in Darby, Montana, this episode brings together Mike Smith and guest Sasha Bell for a full rundown of what to expect July 17th and 18th. From the challenge of bringing touring artists into the middle of the country to the grassroots energy of the lineup, the conversation highlights how this festival is built around community, creativity, and a distinctly Montana music scene.

Listeners get a detailed preview of both days of music, including headliner Cass McCombs, experimental guitarist Marisa Anderson, and a deep roster of regional and touring acts like The Skurfs, Les Duck, Miss Massive Snowflake, San Duney, Bedeveld, Flask, Apocalipstick, Ex-Cocaine, The Gated Community, and Von Wildenhaus. Along the way, Sasha Bell also shares insight into their own band and the local Missoula talent woven throughout the festival.

Beyond the music, the episode covers everything attendees need to know: free camping, on-site food and drink vendors, local sponsors, and the laid-back atmosphere that defines the event of Woodtick Music Festival near Derby, Montana.

It’s a full preview of a summer weekend designed for discovery, connection, and live music in the heart of Montana.

In this lively “Mike Smith Squared” conversation on Trail 103.3, host Mike Smith welcomes Mike Smith of the Missoula PaddleHeads for a behind-the-scenes look at life inside Ogren Park. What starts as a humorous “battle of the Mike Smiths” quickly turns into a deep dive into the energy, creativity, and community impact driving Missoula’s hometown baseball team.

Mike Smith (Missoula PaddleHeads) shares his journey from producing radio in New York’s Poughkeepsie market to finding a long-term home in Missoula, where he now helps shape the PaddleHeads’ marketing and game-day experience. He breaks down what goes into building themed nights like Star Wars Night and the upcoming Super Hero Night, a special evening in partnership with the Brain Injury Alliance. The night features players wearing custom superhero-themed jerseys designed to support awareness and recovery efforts for brain injury survivors, with a live jersey auction where fans can bid to take home game-worn jerseys straight from the players’ backs. The evening also includes appearances from fan-favorite superheroes like Batman, Supergirl, and Ghost Spider, along with interactive ballpark entertainment and family-friendly activities encouraging fans of all ages to dress up and join the fun.

The conversation also highlights the ballpark’s food innovations, community partnerships, and inclusive programming, from Pride Night and Women in Sports Night to military appreciation events,showing how the PaddleHeads have become more than just baseball. They’re a summer staple built around connection, entertainment, and local pride.

With fireworks nights, drone shows, giveaways, and an always-packed schedule, this episode captures the full scope of what makes a PaddleHeads game a must-attend Missoula experience.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the ballpark, this episode brings you straight into the heart of the action,where baseball meets community, and every night tells a different story.

Ever wondered what happens when a giant pear-shaped car/motocycle breaks down in Missoula? This week on The Trail Lunchbox, Tommy sits down with "Glubbey" (Andrew), the artist and creator behind the viral Pear Car that's been turning heads across the country.

Traveling from Florida to Seattle, Glubbey shares how a mechanical breakdown near Bonner unexpectedly led him to Missoula and introduced him to a community eager to help him get back on the road. Hear the story behind building the Pear Car, his passion for creating one-of-a-kind sculpture vehicles, life on the road, and the kindness he's experienced from strangers along the way.

Plus, stick around for one of the most entertaining segments yet as Glubbey takes on the Trail 103.3 "Rate the Fruit" challenge to determine the ultimate fruit champion... will it be a pear? Who knows.

Follow Glubbey's journey on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @glubbey or @andrew_glubbey and see where the Pear Car rolls next.

Kathryn Sanders from Blue Mountain Clinic joins Mike Smith on Trail 103.3 to talk about Defiance on the Dance Floor, a community fundraiser celebrating resilience, solidarity, and the power of showing up for one another. Kathryn shares the inspiration behind the event, taking place four years after the Dobbs decision overturned Roe v. Wade, and discusses Blue Mountain Clinic's mission of providing compassionate primary care, reproductive healthcare, and gender-affirming services in Missoula since 1977.

The conversation highlights an exciting night of music and entertainment featuring Desperate Electric, Montana's high-energy disco duo, drag performances from Eunice Sexx, special guest Stella Kinesics, a community silent auction, and more, all hosted at Free Cycles.

Defiance on the Dance Floor takes place Saturday, June 27, with free STI and HIV testing beginning at 6:00 PM and the dance party kicking off at 7:00 PM.

Plus, Kathryn shares the story of an unforgettable chance encounter with legendary guitarist Derek Trucks during a memorable weekend in Missoula.

Learn more about the event and Blue Mountain Clinic at BlueMountainClinic.org.

Missoula Pride returns June 19–21, and Missoula Pride Co-Founder and Executive Director Devin Carpenter joins Mike Smith on The Trail 1033 to preview a weekend packed with celebration, connection, education, and community. Devin shares how Missoula Pride has grown from a grassroots effort into one of Montana's largest Pride celebrations, thanks to partnerships with local organizations, volunteers, businesses, and supporters across Montana.

The conversation explores how allies can get involved, volunteer opportunities, accessibility initiatives including sensory spaces and educational workshops, and what attendees can expect from the Pride Parade, Main Street Block Party, live entertainment, community vendors, and special events throughout the weekend.

Devin also reflects on Missoula Pride's five-year journey, the importance of creating spaces for queer joy and belonging, and the power of community in bringing people together.

For event schedules, volunteer opportunities, tickets, and more information, visit MissoulaPride.com.

Missoula Pride 2026 takes place June 19–21 in downtown Missoula. Happy Pride! 

Mike Smith is joined in the Trail studio by Trey Curtiss of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers ahead of the annual Backcountry Brewfest happening at Caras Park. Curtiss shares his path from University of Montana intern to conservation advocate, while breaking down the organization’s mission to keep public lands accessible, protected, and open for all users.

The conversation explores growing pressure on federal public lands, the importance of grassroots advocacy, and the ongoing issue of corner crossing in checkerboard landscapes across the West. Curtiss also highlights BHA’s nationwide network of chapters and hands-on stewardship efforts, from advocacy events to habitat restoration projects.

Looking ahead to Brewfest, the episode previews an evening featuring 20+ Montana breweries, live music from Billy Faber and the Skalkaho Brothers, local food trucks, raffles, and community connection, all in support of public lands. Special guests include Mark Kenyon of MeatEater and BHA President & CEO Ryan Callaghan, underscoring the event’s blend of education, advocacy, and celebration.

Tickets are $25 at the door and include drink tickets and a commemorative cup, with proceeds supporting conservation work across North America.