Busted Knees & Pretty Trees

Ep. 99 - Bivvies, Backpacks & Blockbusters: Our Top 5 Outdoor Movies of All Time

Send us Fan Mail Some movies entertain us. Others make us want to throw a backpack in the truck, hit the trail, and chase our own adventure. This week on Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, Justin and Patrick sit down for a fun conversation about the outdoor films that have stuck with us over the years. The stories that inspired us, the moments we still talk about, and the movies that remind us why we love wild places in the first place. Whether you're a hiker, paddler, camper, backpacker, or simply someone who loves a good adventure tale, this episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, friendly debate, and a whole lot of appreciation for the films that keep the outdoor spirit alive. So, grab a camp chair, pour yourself a cup of trail coffee, and join us for a conversation that celebrates the intersection of storytelling, adventure, and the great outdoors. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 98 - From Boardrooms to Backpacks with Rebecca "Primetime" Cuff

Send us Fan Mail This week on Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, we're joined by Rebecca "Primetime" Cuff for an inspiring and entertaining conversation about hiking, backpacking, and embracing life's next chapter. We talk about how she went from the corporate world to the trail, what fuels her passion for adventure, and why she believes it's never too late to start chasing big goals. We also take a deep dive into her backpacking kit, breaking down the gear she carries, the lessons she's learned along the way, and the items she wouldn't hit the trail without. Rebecca shares her experiences as a woman on trail, discusses the unique challenges and rewards that come with it, and offers advice for anyone who might be hesitant to take that first step into the outdoors. And if you've spent any time on hiking social media, you've probably seen Primetime pop up in your feed. We talk about her rapidly growing online presence and how she's using her platform to inspire and encourage thousands of people to lace up their boots, get outside, and start their own adventure, no matter their age, experience level, or background. Tune in now to Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, wherever you get your podcasts, and discover why sometimes the best adventures begin when everyone else thinks you're slowing down. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 97 - Big Miles, Big Mountains, Big Damn Achievements

Send us Fan Mail On this episode of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we’re diving into the wild, impressive, strange, and sometimes downright ridiculous achievements from the world of thru-hiking. From record-setting mileage and incredible endurance to the oldest, youngest, fastest, and most unexpected trail accomplishments, we’re taking a walk through some of the greatest feats ever accomplished on foot. So lace up, grab your pack, and get ready for a whole lot of miles, mountains, records, and stories. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 96 - Leave No Trace: On the Road with Jeanelle Soland & Rob Pelton

Send us Fan Mail This week on the Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we're hitting the trail with Jeanelle Soland and Rob Pelton from the Leave No Trace/Subaru Traveling Team! We talk all things Leave No Trace, life on the road, connecting with outdoor communities, and what it really takes to help people enjoy the outdoors while protecting the places we love! So buckle up, grab your pack, and come along for the ride! It's another episode packed with stories, laughs, and plenty of reasons to get outside--and leave it better than you found it. Keep on Sauntering! Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 95 - Brad Goes to the Carolinas, Hal Coffel Strikes Again & Other Things!

Send us Fan Mail Brad is back from a Carolina adventure, bringing stories from his trip through North and South Carolina! Then Travey cracked open the Bird Gospel of Hal Coffel for another wild find and a whole of a lot more! Another episode of Busted Knees & Pretty Trees is here. Hit play, follow along, and Keep on Sauntering! Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Under Construction... We'll Be Back Next Week!

Send us Fan Mail We weren’t able to put out a full episode this week because we’ve got some exciting improvements happening behind the scenes. We know—no episode?! We’re disappointed too. But don’t worry, the fellowship isn’t going anywhere. We’ll be back next week with more stories, more laughs, and more adventures from the trail. Keep on sauntering, and we’ll see you next Wednesday! Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

Ep. 94 - Third Time's the Trail: Chaddy Fitzpaddy's Family Adventure Out West

Send us Fan Mail He's back! For the third time, our good friend Chad Fitzpatrick joins us in the dungeon studio, and this time he's bringing stories from an unforgettable family road trip across the American West. From long miles on the road to unforgettable days in the backcountry, Chad shares what it's really like to introduce four kids to wild places. We talk about the challenges, the chaos, the laughs, and the moments that make every mile worth it. If you've ever wondered whether adventure has to stop when you start a family, this episode is proof that it doesn't. Whether you're raising future trail junkies, planning your own family adventure, or just love hearing great stories from the outdoors, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 93 - Protecting America's Treasures: Bill Wade and the Future of Our National Parks

Send us Fan Mail America's National Parks don't protect themselves—and neither does the idea behind them. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Bill Wade, Executive Director of the Association of National Park Rangers (ANPR), for a candid discussion about conservation, civic engagement, and the importance of standing up for our public lands. Drawing from decades of experience with the National Park Service, Bill shares incredible stories from his time as a ranger, but this conversation goes far beyond trails, wildlife, and scenic vistas. We dive into the growing need for citizens to become more involved in the future of America's public lands and why simply loving our parks may no longer be enough. Bill offers a thoughtful and passionate perspective on conservation, public service, and the role everyday Americans can play in shaping the future of the places we cherish most. Whether you're a hiker, backpacker, conservationist, history buff, or simply someone who believes these places should be protected for future generations, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep: 92 - The Dirty Truth About Staying Clean Outdoors

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we're talking about the realities of backcountry hygiene: where to pee, how to poop responsibly, staying clean on the trail, and the little comforts that can make a big difference after a long day outdoors. From Leave No Trace bathroom practices to trail-tested hygiene tips and a few creature comforts you won't want to leave behind, we've got you covered. Whether you're planning your first overnight trip or you're a seasoned backpacker looking to fine-tune your camp routine, this episode is packed with practical advice, plenty of laughs, and a reminder that staying clean in the wild doesn't have to be complicated. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 91 - A Beautiful Conversation w/ Normal Guy & Avid Outdoorsman Jared Jones

Send us Fan Mail This week, we sat down with Bradley’s longtime friend Jared Jones from St. Louis. Some might say he's just a down-to-earth, normal guy with a lifelong passion for the outdoors! From hunting and fishing since he was old enough to tag along, to discovering a newfound love for hiking and an old found love of chasing morel mushrooms through the spring woods, Jared shares stories, experiences, and lessons learned from a lifetime spent outside. Whether you're a hardcore outdoorsman, a weekend adventurer, or just someone who appreciates the simple joys of nature, this episode is packed with relatable conversation, laughs, and authentic outdoor passion. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 90 - The Last Campfire of Season 9

Send us Fan Mail Another season is officially in the books, and there's only one way to celebrate... put our memories to the test. This week, the Fellowship goes head-to-head in the annual Season 9 Trivia Challenge, reliving our favorite interviews, biggest laughs, unforgettable moments, and the adventures that made this season one to remember. Think you paid attention this year? Play along and see if you can outscore the guys. Grab a drink, settle in around the campfire, and join us for one last ride through Season 9. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 89 - Two in the Bush w/ Brad and Travis

Send us Fan Mail This week on the Busted Knees and Pretty Trees Podcast, Brad and Travis keep each other company in studio while Patrick is on a family adventure in a distant land. To cope with the absence, the guys have a chat about their early summer adventures and new backpacking gear they've acquired. This includes Brads camera gear setup, Travis' newfound hobby for shabby nature cinematography, and the challenges of carrying extra equipment on the trail. Plus, Walt brings some news about one of the most bizarre and ancient creatures living among us today. It's not a crab! Please enjoy and thanks for listening! Keep on Sauntering. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 88 - The People Behind the Path w/ Chris Bradley and the Hoosier Hikers Council

Send us Fan Mail This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we sit down with Chris Bradley of the Hoosier Hikers Council to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to keep our trails alive. From boots-on-the-ground maintenance to protecting wild places for future generations, Chris gives us an inside look at the work most hikers never see. We dig into trail stewardship, trail advocacy and proper trail architecture. If you’ve ever wondered how that trail beneath your feet began, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 87 - Survival of the Smartest: Trivia Night with Kearstin Whitcomb!

Send us Fan Mail After what feels like years of waiting, our beloved Kearstin Whitcomb finally made her way into the dungeon studio for recording night—and it was totally worth it. This week, Bradley R steps in as quizmaster, putting the fellowship of the pink pony club through a gauntlet of animal trivia—from the biggest animal to have ever lived on earth to how many eyes a bee has! The competition gets fierce, the guesses get reckless, and the laughs come easy. It’s part trivia night, part wildlife crash course, and all-out chaos. Think you know the animal kingdom? Tune in Wednesday and play along. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 86 - Good News from the Wild: Conservation & Colonel Lieber

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we spotlight real stories of nature bouncing back—from species saved to ecosystems restored. These aren’t theories or “what-ifs”… they’re proof that conservation works. We share three powerful stories that show what happens when people step in, take action, and make a difference for the natural world. And along the way, Travey brings in a piece of Indiana history—highlighting Colonel Richard Lieber, the visionary behind Indiana’s state park system, and how his leadership helped protect some of the landscapes we still enjoy today. It’s a mix of hope, history, and real-world impact—the kind of episode that reminds you that progress is possible. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 85 - Sharing Space with Nature: A Conversation with Urban Wildlife Biologist Jessica Merkling

Send us Fan Mail This week on Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we sit down with urban wildlife biologist Jessica Merkling to pull back the curtain on a job most people never think about until there's an animal causing trouble. We talk nuisance wildlife, human-wildlife conflicts, and the challenges cities face as they work to balance development, public safety, and healthy wildlife populations. What happens when a coyote moves into a neighborhood? Why do some animals thrive in urban environments while others struggle? And what does a typical day actually look like for an urban wildlife biologist? From responding to wildlife complaints to educating the public and helping communities find solutions that work for both people and animals, Jessica shares stories from the field and offers a fascinating look at the often-overlooked work of coexistence. If you've ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when wildlife and people cross paths, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 84 - Migration Season Unpacked: B.W.I.A.B, Indiana Dunes and More!

Send us Fan Mail Spring migration is here! Join Bradley and Paddy as they dive deep into the spectacle of migrating birds, break down the excitement around BWIAB, and preview everything happening at the Indiana Dunes Birding Festival. From warbler fallout to birding strategy, this episode is packed with stories, insights, and plenty of spring birding energy. Tune in now! Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 83 - Memories Over Miles: There's No Prize For First

Send us Fan Mail Backpacking used to be about dirt under your nails, bad coffee at sunrise, and sitting on a rock long enough to feel small again. Now it feels like it’s all spreadsheets, split times, and humblebrags about 30-mile days. Somewhere along the way, miles started mattering more than memories. So we’re pushing back. This is a conversation about slowing down on purpose. About ignoring the stopwatch. About staying at the overlook even if it wrecks your itinerary. About remembering that nobody lays in their tent at night thinking, “I wish I’d walked faster.” If the only thing you bring home is a number… you might’ve missed the whole point. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 82 - Let's Take A Ride On The Magic School Bus w/ Mr. Burnworth

Send us Fan Mail This week on Busted Knees & Pretty Trees, we sit down with the man, the myth, the legend — Paddy’s old biology teacher, Jabin Burnworth — and trust us… this one is special. You know that teacher who made science feel like an adventure instead of an assignment? The one who turned confusion into curiosity and classrooms into ecosystems? That was Jabin. In this episode, we talk about what makes a great teacher great, how to make biology attainable for every kid, and why curiosity is still the most powerful tool in the outdoors. We dive into stories from the classroom, lessons that stuck for a lifetime, and how mentorship can shape the trajectory of a student’s world. There’s laughter. There’s nostalgia. There’s some serious birding talk. And there’s a whole lot of appreciation for the educators who change lives without even realizing it. If you’ve ever had a teacher who made you feel seen, capable, and curious — this episode is for you. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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Ep. 81 - Pack It or Whack It: Strange, Bizarre or Totally Normal Gear in 2026

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, we dive headfirst into the wildest, weirdest, and most head-scratching gear of 2026. From “who asked for this?” gadgets to surprisingly brilliant oddities, we’re breaking down what’s innovative, what’s unnecessary, and what might actually earn a spot in your pack. Email: bustedpretty@gmail.com Follow us Bluesky: @bustedpretty.bsky.social Follow us Instagram: @bustedkneesandprettytrees Join us: bustedpretty.com Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts / Amazon Music / iHeartRadio / YouTube

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