Treasures of our Town

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What happens when two avid explorers set their sights on uncovering hidden gems across the USA? Join us as we embark on a journey to the top 10 Adventure Lab locations, where our passion for geocaching transforms ordinary towns into extraordinary experiences. From the vibrant French Quarter in New Orleans to the iconic Lambeau Field in Green Bay, we promise you'll learn how to turn any trip into an unforgettable adventure. Alongside our travel tales, Craig shares personal stories about enjoying premium class on his trip to the UK and the hilarious frustrations of dealing with online scams while selling a car. 

The excitement continues as Josh celebrates his birthday with a special shout-out and share his competitive escapade at the Putt Shack in Minneapolis. Here, mini-golf meets technology with a unique scoring system that left no room for cheating, especially in his friendly rivalry with Tim Larson. Our conversation shifts to the art of crafting Adventure Labs, focusing on creating engaging and educational experiences that teach participants about the history and culture of their surroundings. Non-sequential exploration takes the spotlight, highlighting the joy of wandering without a predetermined path.

Our tour wouldn't be complete without a stop in San Francisco, where walking through the city's rich history and landmarks reveals stories of yesteryear. Our adventure unfolds further in Memphis, delving into civil rights history and music legends. We also explore geocaching in bustling tourist hubs like Seattle and Las Vegas, showing how virtual geocaches pave the way for adventure in crowded spaces. To wrap it up, we share how you can connect with us and join the fun as we uncover the treasures of our town, one Adventure Lab at a time.
Josh’s Florida Video 

Josh’s Groundhog Day Video

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Join us as we celebrate Josh's 47th birthday with our special guest, Emmaline Childs, a dynamic TikToker and Instagram personality from Minnesota. Emmaline captivates us with her vibrant stories and reflections on travel, from the adrenaline rush of a Minnesota Lynx basketball game to the serene beauty of a fall-themed Munzee event. We chat about our shared enthusiasm for location-based games and travel, all while enjoying a unique mix of real and digital birthday cake.

Our conversation takes us on a whirlwind tour of travel plans and destinations, starting with Jeremy Clarkson's humorous leap from Top Gear to Diddly Squat Farm. We ponder our own itinerary with stops at iconic London sites and the world's oldest whiskey distillery in Northern Ireland. The age-old debate about whether to include Stonehenge adds a dose of humour to our travel plans. Emmaline’s upcoming journey to Australia and New Zealand promises more exciting adventures, including New Year's Eve in Sydney Harbour and snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef.

Reflecting on the impact of social media, we celebrate reaching a quarter of a million followers and the fascinating path to social media success. Emmaline shares her strategies for balancing work and travel, emphasising the importance of authenticity in a world often filtered through social media. From the hidden charms of cities like Madison to the glitz of Las Vegas, our conversation traverses both the expected and the unexpected, offering a genuine look at the joys and challenges of travel content creation. Whether you're looking for travel inspiration or insights into the behind-the-scenes of social media, this episode has something for everyone.

EMMALINE LINKS
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Have you ever wondered how stepping out of your comfort zone on a solo journey could reshape your life? Join us on "Treasures of Our Town" as we uncover the empowering transformation that comes with solo travel. By sharing our personal stories and adventures, we reveal how embracing solitude can lead to unexpected human connections and enrich personal growth. You'll hear insights into the delicate dance of communicating with partners about solo adventures and how these journeys can infuse relationships with newfound energy and perspective.

Prepare to be enchanted by Thomas Dambo's giant trolls, crafted from recycled materials and scattered throughout scenic locations like Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. These whimsical installations are not just art—they're part of a thrilling geocaching adventure, thanks to an exciting collaboration with Geocaching HQ. We share the magic of these trolls, the joy of exploring geocaching hotspots in Seattle and Detroit Lakes, and the vibrant experience of solo exploration in places like Rome, Georgia. Our anecdotes highlight the significance of local tips and the charm of discovering hidden gems.

From the court to the road, we celebrate the Minnesota Lynx's journey in the WNBA and savor the simple pleasures of life. Whether it's logging new beers on Untappd or indulging in caramel apples, our passion for sports and travel shines through. We reflect on the joys of self-care, the liberation of solo travel, and the unexpected adventures that arise when spontaneity meets exploration. Join us for an episode brimming with inspiration, where the beauty of human connection meets the thrill of the open road.

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What hidden treasures can you uncover in Fort Worth, Texas? Join Craig and Tim, affectionately known as Minnesota Boy, on a lively adventure through the city's charm and secrets. Our friend Joshua, who couldn't make the trip, shares his thoughts on missing out and his excitement for upcoming escapades. We also delve into Craig's unique plans for the Going Caching event in Georgia, where he'll be donning an old-school convict outfit, and Joshua's exhilarating experience at the Back to the Future musical in Minneapolis. This episode captures our love for travel, geocaching, and the sheer joy of camaraderie.

Indulge in Texas-style barbecue as we recount our mouthwatering meals at Heim Barbecue and the hidden gem, Brown's Backyard Barbecue. We offer tips on finding the best spots and share our brewery escapades, including an ice rail feature at Old Texas Brewing Company that kept our beers perfectly chilled. Trinity Park's beauty and a Munzee event full of interactive games round out our Fort Worth journey. Tune in for travel tips, hearty laughs, and unforgettable experiences that make Fort Worth truly worth it.

Tim's Youtube Channel

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Join us, Joshua and Craig, as we share our adventurous escapades, starting with an amusing critique of a distorted image layout and venturing into Joshua's recent trip to Venice, Italy. Hear the incredible story of an 86-year-old's human-powered amusement park and Craig’s exciting plans for his upcoming European trip. We also reflect on the "delays and upgrades" that come with packed travel schedules filled with geocaching, video creation, and amusement park thrills.

Step back in time as we explore the enchanting world of Renaissance festivals. Craig's curiosity, shaped by American media, opens a window into why these fairs are so beloved in the United States. From the thrill of knife-throwing acts and medieval MMA fighting to the beautiful chaos of dressing up and blending in with elaborately costumed attendees, we dive into the sense of community and vibrant atmosphere these events offer. Tune in for our personal anecdotes, including moments of being mistaken for festival workers, and advice on making the most of your Renaissance fair experience.

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Ever wondered how spending a night in a missile bunker or a decommissioned helicopter might spice up your travels? This week, we embark on a journey through some of the most unique, quirky, and photogenic Airbnbs across the USA. From 1980s and 1990s-themed living rooms perfect for your next TikTok video to whimsical stays like a UFO suite in Washington, we promise you'll be inspired to add some fun and creativity to your next getaway. All stays are in USA, and under $200 a night, Listed on AirBnB as of August 25th, 2024

• Livingston Junction Caboose - Link
• Air Castle Treehouse - Link
• Spaceship Destination!- Link
• Big Idaho Potato Hotel 🥔- Link
• The Last Blockbuster- Link
• Get to the Chopper - Link
• The Band Wagon - LINK 
• Rondavous Land Yacht - LINK
• Dome Sweet Dome - LINK 
• The Hobbit House- Link

Craig Multi Video
Craig Farm Video 

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Ever had your rubber mats disappear into a parallel universe? Join us on this episode of "Treasures of Our Town" as Joshua hilariously recounts his bizarre car wash saga that spirals into a conspiracy theory featuring missing mats and alternate realities. It's a wild ride you won't want to miss! Along with this quirky tale, we introduce a new travel trend coined as "raw-dogging" — embracing the thrill of spontaneous adventures. Anthony, our seasoned traveling guest, joins us to share invaluable tips for work-related trips, ensuring even the most planned traveler finds inspiration.

Anthony Pizzuto brings to the table a rich blend of expertise from his multi-faceted career in hospitality and his geeky passions. As someone who clocks 55,000 air miles annually, he's got the scoop on making the most of your travel time. From the hidden perks of airline club access to the importance of having backups for your gadgets, Anthony's insights are pure gold for business travelers. We'll also touch on managing multiple streaming subscriptions and the allure of driverless cars, ensuring there's something for every tech enthusiast and travel geek alike.

We're all about celebrating local gems and the unique treasures each town has to offer. From finding local dining spots over fast-food chains to reconnecting with old friends through social media, this episode is packed with heartfelt stories and practical tips. We also highlight the pride we have in our hometowns and encourage listeners to support our podcast through Patreon and social media. Join us for a show filled with laughter, travel wisdom, and a genuine appreciation for the places we call home.

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Can you imagine stumbling upon the world's largest mailbox or a museum dedicated to legendary stuntman Evel Knievel? This episode of Treasures of Our Town promises a delightful journey through the quirkiest attractions of the Midwest with our special guest, Midwest travel aficionado Jack Norton. Jack and his wife Kitty have swapped their guitars for travel guides, and they're ready to share their fascinating shift from musicians to travel bloggers. We'll also give you a peek behind the scenes of their popular "Travel with Jack and Kitty" blog and podcast, along with upcoming plans for a daily video series brimming with visual treats.

Our chat with Jack takes us on a whirlwind adventure through hidden gems tucked away in the heartland. Hear about the sleepy town of Casey, Illinois, where you’ll find objects that break world records, and the Hobo Museum in Britt, Iowa, where the spirit of America's wandering workers is kept alive. We also reminisce about the massive Ball of Twine in Minnesota and its quirky significance, not to mention the fascinating Pavik Museum of Broadcasting. Jack even sprinkles in personal anecdotes and dad jokes, making this episode a delightful mix of humor and travel inspiration.

We share our own travel tales, including a camper van saga that turned into a comedic yet frustrating repair ordeal. Despite these bumps in the road, our passion for uncovering the Midwest’s oddities remains strong. From Nebraska’s Carhenge to the Hodag myth in Wisconsin, and from Wall Drug’s kitschy charm to the Wisconsin World's Largest Six-Pack, this episode is stuffed with stories that will make you laugh, dream, and possibly plan your own quirky road trip. Tune in for a treasure trove of tips and tales that celebrate the unique spirit of Midwest travel.

Jack & Kitty Website
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Email - [email protected]
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Ever wondered what it’s like to travel down the historic Route 66 while geocaching? In this week's episode of Treasures of Our Town, we bring you the magic and adventure of one of America’s most iconic highways. We start with a quirky chat about spooky clown-themed accommodations, setting a fun tone before introducing our special guest, Scott Miller, a true expert on Route 66. Joshua and Craig can't contain their excitement as they share their dreams of leisurely exploring Route 66, and Joshua even recounts his recent geocaching escapades across all 87 counties of Minnesota. Craig keeps us on our toes, hinting at more exciting updates and topics coming soon.

Scott Miller, aka GSM times two, takes us on an enlightening journey through the Route 66 Adventure Lab Series. Learn from Scott's extensive geocaching experience since 2004 and discover how Adventure Labs transform geocaching into an educational quest. He opens up about the inspiration and collaboration that brought the Route 66 series to life, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous planning involved. Whether you're new to geocaching or a seasoned pro, Scott’s insights promise to enrich your next adventure along this famed highway.

Traveling Route 66 comes with its own set of joys and challenges, and we cover them all—from the convenience of camper vans to the nostalgic charm of vintage motels. Hear our personal tips on overnight parking at truck stops and state park campgrounds, ensuring a hassle-free journey. We also dive into the varying road conditions across states and the revival of old landmarks, emphasizing the blend of history and culture that makes Route 66 so special. To top it all off, Scott shares some heartwarming moments and valuable tips for making the most out of your Route 66 adventure, whether you’re geocaching or simply soaking in the sights. Don't miss out on this blend of camaraderie, adventure, and heartfelt memories along America’s Main Street.

Historic Route 66 AL Website

Lincoln Highway and Route 66 Intersection

Route 66 GC Adventures

Geocaching with gsmX2 on Youtube

Escape Campervans

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What drives someone to explore every single county in the United States? For Nick, an extreme geocacher and former Marine, it was a mix of adventure, a love for hidden treasures, and a desire to spend quality time with his aging dog, Aichan. Join us as we sit down with Nick, who shares his incredible experiences of finding over 10,000 geocaches across 34 states and 1,522 counties. Alongside Nick's captivating tales, we also share personal updates including Craig's car troubles and Joshua's unique way of spending Juneteenth.

Nick's journey began in 2010, transitioning from active duty in the Marine Corps to a private contractor with a newfound passion for geocaching. Listen to his heartfelt recounting of how geocaching became a way to bond with Aichan, rejuvenate her health, and meet a supportive community of geocachers, including a memorable encounter with a 90-year-old couple in Arizona. Discover the beauty of rural America as Nick encourages travelers to venture beyond city limits and embrace flexibility in their travel planning, sharing his own strategies for tackling long-term travel without burning out.

Finally, Nick gives us a peek into his future plans of documenting his adventures globally on his YouTube channel, Mag Planner, and his website. He talks about the evolution of his video creation skills and his joy in showcasing unique roadside attractions, like those in Taylor, Nebraska, and Iowa's Freedom Rocks project. This episode is a testament to the spirit of exploration, the bonds we form with our pets, and the extraordinary feats one can achieve with passion and determination.

Magplanner Youtube

Magplanner Website 

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