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For Episode 212, we've got Udo Blenkhorn and Pat Pero out of Quebec Canada. Both Pat and Udo are heavily involved with volunteer trail building, so much so that they decided to create a nonprofit organization called Dig !t for the purpose of helping other volunteer trail-building organizations.
Dig !t serves many purposes for both individuals and trail organizations, with the central theme of organizing volunteer trail-building efforts. The latest addition to the Dig !t platform is a mobile app, which made its debut a couple of weeks ago on International Trail Day.
Ultimately, Dig !t was created with the goal of streamlining community trail building so you can spend more time digging and less time doing admin work.
Topics Include:
The Pat backstory and mountain bikingThe Udo backstory and mountain bikingHow Pat and Udo got involved with volunteer trail buildingThe Contagious RockCreating Dig !tHow mistakes led to efficiencies and getting it rightThe Trail FairiesHow to find digs that are going on virtually everywhereProfessionals and volunteers working together to create trailsDifferent tiers of teammates, leaders, and chapter operators that are part of Dig !tHow all of this consolidates and streamlines tracking of actions across the platformOperational efficiencies so you can spend more time working on trails and making the invisible visibleThe sense of belonging that Dig !t providesHow people are assigned roles and levels of training to become a leader within Dig !tDig !t customization at the chapter level (waivers, for example)Dig 24 – a 24-hour volunteer trail-building eventWhat Udo looks for in a trail communityWhat Pat looks for in a trail communityClosing commentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Dig !t: https://digittrailbuilders.org/
Show Support By:
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For episode 211, we've got Willie Bittner, founder of Great Lakes Trail Builders, and current President of the Professional Trail Builders Association. Willie has been trail building nearly his entire life, starting out with Boy Scout projects, then working for various Conservation Corps organizations on, and alongside various trail builders before Founding WisCorps, and Great Lakes Trail Builders. Willie brings some insight and stories not commonly found with other guests here on Trail EAffect.
Topics Include:
How Willie got into Trail BuildingLeaving Wisconsin to work for the California Backcountry ProgramGetting into hand build stonework in the California WildernessHand built trail vs Machine Built trailHeading to the East Coast to work for the Vermont Conservation CorpsTransitioning from working with Conservation Corps to working with Peter S Jenson & Associates.Accessible TrailsStarting Great Lakes Trail Builders and Co-Founding WisCORPS in La Crosse, WIMeeting Willie for the first timeWisCORPS is and what it was like rebooting a Conservation Corps in WI.The transition back to running Great Lakes Trail BuildersGoing to South Argentina / Patagonia Region to build trailsThe challenges of building in this regionMoving his family to Argentina for trail buildingBeing covered by National Geographic for Trail BuildingTrail Building as a legit tradeReflecting on the past 50 years of the Professional Trail Builders AssociationThe 2026 PTBA Conference in BoiseBecoming a PTBA member companyWillie becoming president of the PTBATraining people in traditional stone workBuilding in Superior National Forest in Northern MNRebuilding stairs out of stone (from wood)The 2027 International Trail Summit in North CarolinaWhat Willie looks for in a trail communityClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Great Lakes Trail Builders: https://www.greatlakestrailbuilders.com
National Geographic: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/article/trail-builders-perfect-hike
Professional Trail Builders Association: https://www.trailbuilders.org
Show Support By:
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For episode 210, we've got Berne Broudy and Greg Durso back on for a follow-up conversation about their film, Best Day Ever. Berne and Greg were first on in episode 201 back in October of 2025, and since then they've been rallying hard on the film tour circuit, racking up an impressive 22 awards and showcasing the film in multiple countries. Best Day Ever has been making a real impact on how everyday people in the trail community think about adaptive trails and trails for all. This is a special episode and one worth sharing. If you haven't had the chance to check this film out, it's impressive and will take you through the full rollercoaster of emotions.
Topics Include:
Recap – Banff Film Festival World TourAwardsNational and International ScreeningsExperiences that have come from the film tour in various communities and theatersWhat it takes to implement adaptive trailsGuidelines around aMTB TrailsVMBA 3 Park YouTube SeriesDrive Range aMTB Trail SystemFuture Screenings of Best Day Ever5 Point Film Festival (4/23/2026)How you can screen the movie in your community for all the community leadersBest Day Ever and SORBAaMTB Trails – Not Dumbed Down or made easieraMTB’s and Bowhead at Sea OtterReflecting on all the Traction this film has gotten since it’s gone liveThe reception this film has gotten across theatersClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Best Day Ever Film: https://www.bestdayever.mov/
Best Day Ever on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestdayevermovie
VMBA Adaptive YouTube Series:
Episode One: https://youtu.be/VLmq9z7hBNc?si=fNUZ5zVlW82Zv7Fj
Episode Two: https://youtu.be/2n9roXXo3-I?si=WA0790_Xs2jvw0Hz
Episode Three: https://youtu.be/pWpS2WM9C4Y?si=Pxh03QcnehKkBqMQ
Driving Range Trail System: https://www.richmondmountaintrails.org/the-driving-range
Show Support By:
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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Evan Walterman & Doc Savage | Black Hills Bike Hub – Rapid City, SD | 209
For episode 209, We have Evan Walterman and Doc Savage representing the Black Hills Bike Hub based in Rapid City, SD. Doc is the current President, and Evan is the Director of Trails. We discuss all things mountain biking and trails in Rapid City which has some very unique trail systems. Rapid City was also just named an IMBA Trail Town, and we discussed that process as well.
Topics Include:
How Evan got into Mountain Biking and TrailsHow Doc got into Mountain Biking and TrailsThe Dakota 5-0 and the impact on the regionProject EchelonThe Black Hills RegionRemembering Kevin Forrester – K4 TrailsRapid City and the backstory of trail systems in Rapid City ProperHansen-Larsen Memorial ParkSkyline Wilderness AreaCreating / Rebooting the Black Hills Bike HubThe All-American TrailCommunity Support of Trails and Mountain BikingBecoming an IMBA Trail TownIMBA Trail Care WorkshopWhat Doc looks for in a Trail CommunityWhat Evan looks for in a Trail CommunityClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Black Hills Bike Hub: https://www.blackhillsbikehub.org/
K4 Trails: https://k4trails.com/
Hansen-Larsen Memorial Park: https://www.hlmprc.com/
IMBA Trail Towns: https://www.imba.com/trail-towns
Show Support By:
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For episode 208, we have Ethan Edman, the Director of Trail Construction and Maintenance at the OZ Trails Bike Park. If you want a real understanding of how one of the most anticipated bike parks in the country is coming together, this conversation delivers.
Topics Include:
Ethan on Gravity Based Bike ParksEthan on his role as the Director of Trail Construction and MaintenanceBike parks he’d visited, and the experiences Ethan has learned about themAngel Fire Bike ParkSpirit Mountain Bike ParkHighland Bike ParkThe value gained from riding and experiencing many different placesThe Chairlift at the OZ Trails Bike Park, and the experience it will provideDiscussing different uplift experiencesDetails on the 30 trails that the OZ Trails Bike Park will be opening withMaximizing the 280’ of elevation at the Bike ParkThe importance of Diverse Trail Experiences that will be offeredAnticipated Opening of the OZ Trails Bike ParkDialing in operations ahead of opening and training staff.Unique characteristics of having a truly blank canvas to create this bike parkGravity Logic as the main contractor for the bike park, both for building trails and dialing in operations of the bike park as a businessHours of OperationOther amenities at the OZ Trails Bike ParkRental BikesSkills Coaching / LessonsHow this bike park will cater to new riders from a skills perspectiveMena, AR Bike ParkWhat Ethan knows about the bike park in Mena, ARHow the OZ Trails Bike Park will complement a much larger bike park in MenaThe scale of the Ouachita Mountains in ArkansasClosing Comments and Thank You’s
Trail EAffect Show Links:
OZ Trails Bike Park: https://www.oztrails.com/oz-trails-bike-park/
Show Support By:
Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp: https://www.outdoormarketingbootcamp.com/
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For episode 207, Phil Waidner is our guest – Now if you read the title, it says West Virginia Mountain Biking and the Arrowhead Bike Farm – This is where Phil Lives and what Phil does, but how he got here is a whole lot of different stories. Phil took us from Indiana to Ashville, to China to Bolivia, to Vail Colorado and finally to Fayetteville, WV. He’s had a lot of different roles in the mountain bike community that span from Tour Guide / Instructor to Leading Teen Trail Corps for NICA and a ton more. There’s so much to unpack about this conversation that an intro just won’t do it justice.
Topics Include:
Phil Waidner Back StoryHeading to China to guide for climbing and mountain bikingGetting a job as a mountain bike guide in BoliviaTransitioning back to the U.S. as a ski instructor in Vail, CO.Moving to West Virginia to take a role as the Wheels Program Managerat the Summit Bechtel Reserve Boy Scout CampGetting the keys to a brand new 35-mile trail system at the Summit Bechtel ReserveThe importance of Trail MaintenanceHired by NICA to run the Teen Trail Corps – NationwideThe success of NICA Teen Trail CorpsComing onboard at the Arrowhead Bike Farm in Fayetteville, WVArrowhead Bike Farm BackstoryWhat the Arrowhead Bike Farm is and what they do there (lots!)Mountain Biking in the New River Gorge RegionThe uniqueness of West VirginiaEvents and Festivals in the regionWhat Phil looks for in trail communitiesClosing CommentsBonus Bolivia ContentTrail EAffect Show Links:
Arrowhead Bike Farm: https://arrowheadbikefarm.com/
West Virginia Mountain Bike Association: https://wvmba.com/
Summit Bechtel Reserve: https://www.summitbsa.org/
Gravity Bolivia: https://www.gravitybolivia.com/
Show Support By:
Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp: https://www.outdoormarketingbootcamp.com/
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For episode 206, I’m joined by Mark Eller from Leave No Trace. This might sound like a straightforward conversation. It isn’t. Mark is a veteran of the outdoor industry, with more than a decade at IMBA during a period of major program expansion, and he continues his work today at Leave No Trace. His background includes climbing, mountain biking, and decades of time spent outdoors. This episode sits at the intersection of marketing, mountain biking, trails, and how we show up outdoors in ways that are practical and low impact.
Topics Include:
How Mark landed in the Outdoor Marketing space more than 2 decades agoLanding at IMBA doing Communications and MarketingMark working at IMBA during the time of the Trail Solutions Book, The Ride Center, Regional Directors, and moreThe Impact of the Trail Solutions Book on Land Managers and Modern Trail Design and Construction taking a real science backed approachWhat are some things that trails / mountain biking has gotten right and wrong from a marketing perspectiveThe Leave No Trace BackstoryThe Seven Principals of Leave No TraceCommon Misconceptions about Leave No TraceBest method for learning Mark has found during his careerSurprises for Mark while at IMBA and Leave No TraceWhat bad habit would Mark get trail users to changeWhat Mark Looks for in Trail CommunitiesOutdoor Marketing Boot CampClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Leave No Trace: https://lnt.org/
Show Support By:
Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp: https://www.outdoormarketingbootcamp.com/
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For episode 205 we have Charlie Riou and Cullen McMorrow – the President and Vice President of the Austin Ridge Riders Mountain Bike Club. While Austin may not be on everyone’s radar as a ride destination Austin certainly has a very deep history around mountain biking, mountain bike advocacy and trails. Both Cullen and Charlie provide some excellent stories about the history of mountain biking in the Austin Area along with what they are doing for the future of mountain biking in this region.
Topics Include:
The Austin Ridge Riders Backstory as a Mountain Bike ClubBarton Creek GreenbeltHow Cullen got involved with the Austin Ridge RidersHow Charlie got involved with the Austin Ridge RidersTrail Work by the Austin Ridge RidersWalnut Creek Metro Park work dayBenefits of cleaning up parks and trailsAmerican Trails Webinar – Using Natural Surface Trails as Transportation Alternatives.Working with other user groups to create Win – Win scenariosReimers Ranch Park The Quality-of-Life aspect of trails in Austin and how that’s a tougher sell in large metro areas like Austin (where lots of people are moving there regardless of outdoor recreation)Where Charlie likes to ride in the Austin AreaWhat Cullen looks for in a Riding CommunityWhat Charlie looks for in a Riding CommunityClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Austin Ridge Riders: https://www.austinridgeriders.com/
Show Support By:
Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp: https://www.outdoormarketingbootcamp.com/
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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Nick Ryan | Copper Harbor Trails Club Trails Coordinator | 204
Topics Include:
Giving Tuesday for Copper Harbor Trails ClubLooking back at the 2025 achievements by the Copper Harbor Trails ClubLooking forward at the 2026 goalsWrapping up the Keweenaw Point Trail in 2026Winter Trails around Copper Harbor that the far east end of the Keweenaw PeninsulaMore than double your donation through the Giving Tuesday Campaign when you donate through the Copper Shores Community Health Foundation to the Copper Harbor Trails ClubThe Nick Ryan backstory on how he got into mountain bikingWhy Nick chose Copper Harbor as a place to workEnrolling into the Northwest Arkansas Trail Technician ProgramGoing deeper on the importance of Planning and Design for trailsBuilding ExperiencesThe International Trail Rating System and traveling to Europe to attend the certification courseInternational Trail Rating System DetailsCopper Harbor Trails Club adopting the International Trail Rating SystemGoing deeper on wayfindingThings that Nick learned generally speaking while in EuropeWhat Nick Looks for in a Trail CommunityTrail Maintenance and the value / and importance of Trail MaintenanceClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Copper Shores Community Health Foundation | Giving Tuesday: https://www.coppershores.org/giving-tuesday
Copper Harbor Trails Club: https://www.copperharbortrails.org/
Northwest Arkansas Community College Trail Technician Program: https://www.nwacc.edu/academicdivisions/trailstrades/trailtechnician/
International Trail Rating System: https://itrs.bike/
Show Support By:
Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp: https://www.outdoormarketingbootcamp.com/
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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IMBA Trail Towns and Ride Centers™ with Joe V. and Marty Caivano | 203
For episode 203 we have Joe V. and Marty Caivano back on to discuss the recently launched IMBA Trail Towns Designation and the recently relaunched IMBA Ride Center™ Designation. We covered everything from the importance of these designations for your community, how to get these awarded these designations, and even provided some example communities for these designations. If you are looking to level up the status of your community – Look no further as this conversation is for you!
Topics Include:
Trail Towns and the why behind the Trail Town DesignationBecoming a Trail TownCommunity Assessment ToolTrail Town Application WindowWhy become an IMBA Trail TownRe Launch of the Ride Center™ DesignationThe evolution of IMBA and the mission of More Trails Close to HomeThe consolidation of Bronze, Silver and Gold Ride Centers™ to Ride Center™ and Premier Ride Center™How riders think about where they want to ride todayDefining “Bike Park” within the Ride Center™ DesignationDefining Gravity Riding within the Ride Center™ DesignationUsing CAMBA / Mt Telemark Village (Hayward / Cable, WI) and how this region fits into the new Ride Center™ designation as an exampleReapplying to become a Ride Center™, even if your community is a current Ride Center™.Example of Copper Harbor and how that community would fit into the new Ride Center™ designation.Joe’s new Ride Center™ radius now that he’s based in ColoradoMarketing component of Ride Centers™TrailForks & IMBARating and Reviewing Ride Centers™What Joe V looks for in a Trail CommunityClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
IMBA: https://www.imba.com/
Trail Towns and Ride Centers™ Press Release: https://www.imba.com/press-release/imba-expands-community-designation-program-new-imba-trail-town-recognition-and-imba
Show Support By:
Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp: https://www.outdoormarketingbootcamp.com/
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For episode 202 we have Miles Ramsey the creative director for 52Eighty Creative. Miles has been working with the PTBA, American Trails, along with others in the Trail Space to improve the marketing game on the outdoor infrastructure we all love to build and use.
Miles also the person behind the Outdoor Marketing Boot Camp which was created as a way to help bring new and creative ideas to the outdoor recreation and trail world.
The Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp will be hosted in a virtual format so traveling to and attending this conference will not be an issue. Miles has brought together more than 25 professionals who work in Outdoor Space as speakers at the Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp. This conversation also kicks off a partnership that Miles and myself have formed to help co-promote both the Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp and the Trail EAffect Podcast.
Topics Include:
How Miles got involved with the Trail World (PTBA / American Trails)Common themes Miles has seen in terms of room for improvement from a marketing and branding perspectiveSmall Business ownershipOutdoor Marketing Bootcamp BackstoryYear One SuccessesMiles – on “Is it good for the client?”Speakers and the lineup for the 2026 Outdoor Marketing BootcampWhat should an attendee expect from participating in the Outdoor Marketing BootcampVarious levels of experienceDates: February 17th & 18th 2026What Miles looks for in a Trail CommunityThe Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp PodcastClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
52Eighty Creative: https://www.52eightycreative.com/
Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp: https://www.outdoormarketingbootcamp.com/
Outdoor Marketing Bootcamp Podcast: https://www.outdoormarketingbootcamp.com/podcast
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For episode 201 we have Berne Broudy and Greg Durso. Berne is an outdoor journalist, storyteller, and happens to be the president of Richmond Mountain Trails a Non-Profit Trail Organization. Greg is an adaptive athlete and senior program director for the Kelly Brush Foundation. Together Berne and Greg helped to create the new film titled “Best Day Ever” a film about adaptive mountain biking, trail building and what it looks like when inclusion is part of the trail building process from the beginning.
Topics Include:
The purpose and backstory behind the Best Day Ever movieBreaking ground on the Driving Range Trail System – Vermont’s first fully adaptive trail system.Challenges with building the Driving Range Trail SystemSome of the characteristics of an Adaptive TrailThe intentionality of making the Driving Range sessionable, progressive and diverse in terms of trail experiences for all riders (and this system is mostly Blue, Black and Double Black).Greg participating in and getting other adaptive riders into the Fox U.S. Open downhill race at Killington, VTHow DH Tracks lend themselves to being great for adaptive riders.Different types of Adaptive Mountain BikesThe Kelly Brush Foundation – Kingdom Trails – and Adaptive Mountain Bike CampsExpanding on what the Kelly Brush Foundation doesWhat Berne learned through creating this movie “Best Day Ever”What Greg learned through filming the movie “Best Day Ever”Screenings of the movie “Best Day Ever” which you can do now!American Trails: Advancing Trails Webinar: A Guide to Adaptive Mountain Bike Trail BuildingWhat Berne looks for in a Mountain Bike CommunityWhat Greg looks for in a Mountain Bike CommunityWhat Greg thinks the future of adaptive trails looks likeClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Best Day Ever Movie: https://www.bestdayever.mov/
The Driving Range Trail System: https://www.richmondmountaintrails.org/the-driving-range
Richmond Mountain Trails: https://www.richmondmountaintrails.org/
How to donate to the film (w/ a $25k Matching Grant): https://www.bestdayever.mov/impact
Heartland Film Festival: https://www.heartlandfilm.org/festival
The Kelly Brush Foundation: https://kellybrushfoundation.org/
American Trails Webinar: A Guide to Adaptive Mountain Bike Trail Building (10/30/2025): https://www.americantrails.org/training/a-guide-to-adaptive-mountain-bike-trailbuilding
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For Episode 200 we flip the script, and Pete Taylor takes over as the host, putting your regular host myself, Josh into the hot seat. We dive into the backstory how the Trail EAffect Podcast came to be, a mistake or two that I’ve made along the way along with a whole bunch of other topics that Pete had.
Topics Include:
The Driftless Dirt / Trail EAffect Podcasts BackstoryWhy Start Trail EAffectWhere has Trail EAffect taken meBiggest Surprises and MistakesHighlights from the showDifficulties that have come with the podcastMonetization of the showScheduling of the shows, and time invested into the showBecoming proficient at podcasting, audio and editingGive advice, things I’ve learned through this journeyThe value of Trail Planning and DesignAdvice to Trail Organizations who may be lacking fundingFavorite places / Little Gems for trail communitiesWhat does the future of dirt look likeThoughts on “expired” golf coursesThe future of dirtWhat’s nextWhat Josh looks for in a Trail CommunityClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Vernon Trails: https://vernontrails.com/
Bluedog Cycles: https://www.bluedogcycles.com/
Pertnear 20 Mountain Bike Race: https://www.bluedogcycles.com/pertnear-20-2022
Episode Sponsor - Coulee Creative: www.dudejustsendit.com https://www.couleecreative.com/
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For Episode 199 we have Pete Taylor of Vernon Trails, Bluedog Cycles and Camp Bluedog – the largest longest running kids’ mountain bike camp in the Galaxy. There are so many words that could be said about Pete but I’ll leave all of that up to him!
Topics Include:
Moving to Viroqua, WI to open a bike shop, a place with zero access for mountain bike trailsStarting with Single Track - Vernon Trails – The local trail organizationOpening Bluedog Cycles in Viroqua, WIPete’s take on NICA and how that’s impacted Pete’s Mountain Bike CommunityCamp Bluedog – Why start a kids mountain bike campThe backstory behind why Pete and Alycann started Camp Bluedog19 years of Camp Bluedog just wrapped upTrail Building as Part of Camp BluedogPartnering with Sugar Creek Bible Camp for the facilities and trailsEvents at Sugar Creek Bible Camp… (Past and Future)Volunteers of Camp BluedogPertnear 20 XC Race at Sidie Hollow every fallConnecting you to what Matters: T-Mobile Grant for Trail Mapping and SignageWhat Pete looks for in a Trail CommunityClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Vernon Trails: https://vernontrails.com/
Bluedog Cycles: https://www.bluedogcycles.com/
Camp Bluedog: https://www.bluedogcycles.com/camp-bluedog
Episode Sponsor - Coulee Creative: www.dudejustsendit.com https://www.couleecreative.com/
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For Episode 198, we’re catching up with Mike Repyak, who’s back on the show for the fourth time, this time with a brand-new role as Director of Development and Outdoor Recreation for the Kocourek Trailhead Foundation in Wausau, Wisconsin. We dive into Wausau’s ambitious trail plans, Mike’s continued work with IMBA, and highlights from the International Trails Summit that was held this past April in Madison, WI – Basically in Mikes backyard.
Topics Include:
Mike’s new roll: Director of Development and outdoor Recreation for the Kocourek Trailhead Foundation in Wausau, WI.Recap of what Mike Accomplished at IMBA as the Director of IMBA Trail Solutions.A recap of the International Trail Summit that was held in Madison, WI in April 2025.Pre Conference SessionsConcurrent Conference SessionsThe City of Madison, WI as a true multimodal communityA meeting about the possibility of starting a statewide mountain bike trail organization in WisconsinDiving into the details behind Mike’s new role in Wausau, WI.What the Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership is and why it exists.What the Private (with public access) trail development will look like adjacent to Rib Mountain State Park in Wisconsin.Effectively expanding access from private lands into parts of Rib Mountain State Park in areas that were previously more difficult to accessThe prospect of lift access for gravity trails adjacent to Rib Mountain State ParkHow Mike is still involved with IMBA in a part time capacity2025 IMBA Trail Labs Foundations in Winona, MNOther Locations for Trail Labs FoundationsKafka Granite’s Wax Coated Pathway Mix (Trail Surface)What Mike looks for in a Trail CommunityClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership: https://greaterwausau.org/
Central Wisconsin Off Road Cycling Coalition: https://cwocc.org/
Visit Wausau Mountain Biking: https://www.visitwausau.com/outdoor-activities/biking-trails/
IMBA Foundations: https://www.imba.com/foundations
Kafka Granite’s Wax Coated Pathway Mix: https://www.kafkagranite.com/natural-crushed-stone/pathway-materials/wax-pathway-mix/
Episode Sponsor - Coulee Creative: www.dudejustsendit.com https://www.couleecreative.com/
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For Episode 197 we have Adam Yeoman, the Executive Director for the Copper Harbor Trails Club. During this conversation we talk all things Copper Harbor 2025, which includes some past events, future events, new trails, and there is also some intel on what participants of the 2025 Copper Harbor Trails Fest might have in store in terms of both XC and Enduro Course. Adam covers a lot during our conversation, and Copper Harbor as a trail organization has a ton going on, so even if you are not from the Upper Midwest there are some pieces of information that you may find interesting or helpful for your trail community.
Topics Include:
Brief bit of Copper Harbor and Keweenaw Penisula HistoryThe transition from club president to Executive DirectorStaff at Copper Harbor Trails ClubRide the Keweenaw EventCopper Harbor Trails FestOrbion – Title Sponsor of Trails FestWomen’s & Men’s Ride ClinicsNew Trails coming onlineKeweenaw Point Trail continues to be builtNew Start Hub at the top of East BluffWinter Trails for Copper Harbor Trails ClubNordic SkiingHints about 2025 Trails Fest Course for both the XC and EnduroOther events that have been held in Copper Harbor in 2025Rough Stuff Rally906 Adventure Crusher12 hours of All You Can East Bluffet – Endurance EnduroWhat Adam looks for in a Trail CommunityClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Copper Harbor Trails Club: https://www.copperharbortrails.org/
East Bluff Bike Park: https://eastbluffbikepark.com/
Orbion – Title Sponsor for Copper Harbor Trails Fest: https://orbionspace.com/
Rough Stuff Rally: https://bikejerks.com/pages/rough-stuff-rally
906 Adventure Crusher: https://906adventureteam.com/mountain-bike-events/the-crusher/
Episode Sponsor - Coulee Creative: www.dudejustsendit.com https://www.couleecreative.com/
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For Episode 196 we have J.T. Horn, J.T, is the Trail Director for the Trust for Public Land. J.T. was also one of two guests on episode 192 where we discussed the Economic Impact that Mountain Biking can have on communities. For this episode we are discussing various ways to bridge the gap between Land Conservation organizations and the Trail Community. This topic can be a rather important topic because land access for trails is often one of the most challenging hurdles for trail development. As J.T. describes during this conversation, partnering with a Land Conservation Organization that understands the value of trails and outdoor recreation can be a critical step in the trail development process. I always really enjoy perspective that J.T. brings during our conversations and I hope you do as well!
Topics Include:
The J.T. Horn backstoryWhat the Trust for Public Land is, and how the TPL came to beHow to engage with the Trust for Public Land for a Land AcquisitionThe risk and financial lensFocus mainly on high impact larger projectsTualatin Mountain Forest – Portland OR.Due diligence in real estate:Four Key ComponentsValue of the LandLand Survey (Size / Neighbors / Etc.)Title Search / existing rights on the propertyEnvironmental StatusBridging the gap between Conservation Organizations and the Trail CommunityThe partnership between the Trust for Public Land and IMBAAn example project between the TPL and IMBAMono Pond State Park in CTThe shift in mindset from conserving and preserving land to moving to creating more recreational land on these propertiesWinter and Summer economics that revolve around outdoor recreationBethel, MA – Sunday River / Bethel Community ForestCarrabassett Valley, MA and Crocker Mountain UnitCatamount Outdoor Family CenterExamples of avenues for funding opportunitiesPotential Partnership between forest product companies and Trail OrganizationsLife Wisdom by J.T. HornLand Acquisition Strategy using good parcel dataWhat J.T. looks for in a Trail CommunityClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
The Trust for Public Land: https://www.tpl.org/
The Tualatin Mountain Forest: https://www.tpl.org/our-work/tualatin-mountain-forest
Mono Pond State Park: https://www.tpl.org/our-work/bigger-better-mono-pond-state-park
Catamount Outdoor Family Center: https://catamountoutdoor.org/
Episode Sponsor - Coulee Creative: www.dudejustsendit.com https://www.couleecreative.com/
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For Episode 195 we have Chris Stindt as our guest. Chris is heavily involved hosting bicycle related events, all sorts of bicycle related events. During this conversation we uncover the value that events bring to communities, and in many ways these events help to build stronger communities.
Topics Include:
The Chris Stindt backstoryChris’s role at Smith’s Bike ShopEvents as a vehicle for raising money to fund trailsAn overview of multiple events before going into a deep dive on themA Brief History of WORS Racing in La CrosseThe La Crosse Omnium Road Race – What this event does for the regionSide conversation about Kwik TripDeeper into what to expect at ORA Trails Fest and the UCI racing aspect of 2025’s eventEnduro Racing at ORA Trails FestUSA Cycling Gravel Nationals – La Crescent, MN – Across the river from La Crosse, WISmith’s Bike Shop and the 130-Year Anniversary – 1895 to Present – Yet another community eventOther events that Smith’s Bike Shop Supports – Valet Bike Parking at the Moon Tunes Summer Concert Series with the Beer By Bike Brigade.What Chris looks for in Trail CommunitiesClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
La Crosse Omnium: https://www.lacrosseomnium.com/
ORA Trails Fest: https://www.oratrailsfest.com/
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
USA Cycling Gravel National Championships: https://gravelnats.usacycling.org/
I Helped Design the Gravel Nationals Course Coming to Minnesota. Then We Pre-Rode It (And It’s Going to Hurt) – Words: Chris Stindt https://www.thenxrth.com/post/i-helped-design-the-gravel-nationals-course-coming-to-minnesota-then-we-pre-rode-it-and-it-s-goin
Episode Sponsor - Coulee Creative: www.dudejustsendit.com https://www.couleecreative.com/
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For Episode 194 Martha Becton takes over again, this time at the 2025 International Trail Summit, which was held this past April in Madison, WI. Similar to when Martha took over last year at the PTBA Conference, Martha is back, and this time she’s got 6 other guests who dive back into the topic of Women in Trail Building.
Topics Include:
Intro by Martha Becton – Owner of Becton TrailsDesi Jarrell – Director of Outdoor Recreation Perry County Fiscal CourtKathie Brennan – Vice President Ozark Trail AssociationValerie Niles – Open Space Technician Midpeninsula Regional Open Space DistrictHeidi Tillmanns – Director Trail & Infrastructure Trans Canada TrailStacey Dakin – Chief Program Officer Trans Canada TrailKathie Brennan – Working with AmeriCorps staffMartha – Volunteering as a retirement job, and staying active when older in lifeKathie Brennan – What is now my purpose?Erica Hirsch – Trails Program Manager Cleveland MetroparksWorking for multiple winters in Patagonia ArgentinaMartha – What hooked you into trails – and how can you get into this career of trailsTrails as a second career (later in life)Transferable Skills into trails – (Hint, everything is transferable)Desi and Kathie – NICA and getting kids and families on bikesClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
International Trails Summit: https://www.trails-summit.org/
Episode Sponsor - Coulee Creative: www.dudejustsendit.com https://www.couleecreative.com/
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
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For Episode 193 we have Uriah Nazario and Brock Wagner who are two of the many personalities behind Beyond the Ashes – An Adaptive Trail Story. Uriah and Brock break down the backstory behind this film, who they brought into the film, along with how Universal Trail Design can be incorporated into trail systems without most people knowing, yet providing access to Adaptive Mountain Bikers. This film will be going live on June 19th at the Bentonville Film Festival. Some of the personalities in this film are previous guests on the Trail EAffect podcast as well such as Jeremy P McGhee (Episodes 65 & 66), and Annijke Wade (Episode 85).
Topics Include:
The backstory on how Beyond the Ashes came to beBring Brock Wagner along for filming movie, and how this evolved from a documentary with Jeremy P McGhee to a much larger and more inclusive projectBringing Brian Carlson into the film – and the vital role Brian playedHaving other riders evaluate trails to get feedback from different perspectivesBreaking down the differences between the various aMTB’s from Brock’s perspectiveLearning how to build jumps for Adaptive Riders – and sending Jeremy into an Airbag off of and ATV ramp.Jeremy P McGhee absolutely sending itHow Adaptive riders don’t want or need trails “dumbed down”What Brock took away from making this filmHow the film is broken up into segmentsThe release at the Bentonville Film FestivalThe possibility of this film going to other film festivalsClosing CommentsTrail EAffect Show Links:
Beyond the Ashes: https://www.beyondtheashesfilm.com/
Bentonville Film Festival: https://bentonvillefilm.org/
Episode Sponsor - Coulee Creative: www.dudejustsendit.com https://www.couleecreative.com/
Trail EAffect Podcast Website: www.traileaffectpodcast.com
KETL Mtn Apparel Affiliate Link: https://ketlmtn.com/josh
Trail One Components: https://trailone.bike/josh
Smith’s Bike Shop – 130 Years of Excellence: www.smithsbikes.com
Contact Josh at [email protected]
This Podcast has been edited and produced by Evolution Trail Services
- Näytä enemmän
