On this episode, we have one of the deepest OG's in all of biking, Jody Donnelly. If you don't know Jody, he's been a major part of the BMX and MTB scene since the 70s. He has been there through literally every stage of the sport. In this deep dive episode filled with classic names, Jody tells us about this experience in the bike world over the las…

Pacifica local legend and everyones favorite "little shredder" Paul Jackson aka @DirtJackson sits down with us to talk about his background, riding experience and just vibe with the boys.By Jackson May, Mateo Sanabria & James Magee

Meet David Toste, or "Toast" as we call him at Dirty Freehub, and Michelle Taylor. In this episode, Toast, Michelle, and Kira Corbett of Dirty Freehub take a ride along the Deschutes River Trail in Biggs, soaking in the stunning views of the gravel route while also connecting with the experience of being fully present in their bodies. Both David an…

All Access Episode #3 In this episode of The Connection, we sit down with Giselle Distad to hear her inspiring story of recovery and resilience after donating a kidney to her father. She shares how cycling became a vital part of her healing process, reconnecting her with nature, art, and the community in Central Oregon. Giselle opens up about the p…

All Access Episode #2 In this inspiring episode of The Connection, Geoff Babb shares his journey of overcoming a life-changing stroke and the challenges of adapting to outdoor adventures with a disability. He discusses the creation of the AdvenChair and his groundbreaking expedition through the Grand Canyon, featured in the film Dream Boldly. Geoff…

All Access Episode #1 In this episode of The Connection, we chat with professional photographer and cyclist, Don Miller, to discuss the joys and challenges of cycling with age. Don shares insights on the benefits of e-bikes, gravel cycling, and the importance of maintaining a social, enjoyable pace while riding. Tune in for a conversation about all…

In a very "loose" episode, friend of the Pod, Matt Reynolds joins us and the boys banter about riding events and then answer some reader questions.By Jackson May, Mateo Sanabria & James Magee

We are back with a new episode and host! Introducing James Magee AKA Feelgoodchubbs to the Podcast! Couldn't be more stoked to have him join the team. You've probably seen him backflipping a tiny jump on IG and now you get to hear him explain his background, passion, riding influences and more. Stay tuned for more episodes coming soon!…

In this episode of The Connection , we speak with Michael Orwick, an oil painter whose work is deeply inspired by the unique light and atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest. Michael shares his artistic journey, from studying illustration at the Pacific Northwest College of Art to transitioning into landscape painting. He describes his creative proces…

On this Episode of the Connection we tune in with Dr. Jim Rivers as he provides an insightful conversation about the marbled murrelet, a fascinating seabird with unique behaviors and a complex relationship with both ocean and forest ecosystems. Dr. Rivers explains how this small seabird, the size of a robin, flies long distances inland to nest in o…

In this episode, we dive deep into the history of the Monterey Cypress with Nancy Appling Salucci of the Heritage Tree Committee and Beth Dehn of Oregon Travel Information Council. What makes this unique tree so special, and why did it stand out in a world of towering giants? We explore its origins, the man who planted it, how this impressive tree …

In this episode, we sit down with Tony Bixler, the President of Local Ocean Seafoods, a popular restaurant and fish market in Newport, Oregon. Tony shares the story of how Local Ocean was founded in 2005 by Laura Anderson and Al Pazar, focusing on sustainable, local seafood from the Oregon coast. He discusses the restaurant’s changes to improving o…

When it comes to cycling in rural areas, there is a chance you may cross paths with dogs..most likely livestock dogs. How do you know if they are aggressive? What happens if you get bit? We join two different perspectives - a K-9 officer and a veterinarian with a background in canine behavior. Glen Scruggs, a retired Oregon police officer has worke…

30 Minutes Over Oregon tells the true, powerful story of reconciliation after war. In WWII, a Japanese pilot bombed the continental U.S.—the only enemy to do so—and returns 20 years later to offer a heartfelt apology. This children's nonfiction book, illustrated by author and illustrator Melissa Iwai, blends history with beautiful watercolor artwor…

A carnivorous plan you say? The Cobra Lily, also known as Darlingtonia californica may look like a snake poised to strike but is actually a carnivorous plant that contains unique characteristics. Throughout the episode, our guest Haleigh Martin from Klamath-Siskiyou Wild (KS Wild) emphasizes the significance of personal connections to nature, advoc…

Two stunning geological formations in Central Oregon offer a wealth of insights into the beauty and complexity of these balancing or “ghost” rocks. Shaped by volcanic activity and erosion over millions of years, our resident “rock doctor” Dr. Kim Ely explains how the cliffs were formed, highlighting four distinct geological formations. Dr. Ely also…

Uncover the fascinating history behind this unique landmark with Ryan Parker, a beach ranger from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. In this episode, we discover how a massive Cascadia earthquake in 1700 led to the preservation of ancient trees, whose stumps now emerge from the sand at low tide. Through these geological processes, the ghos…

Creating illusion through color - from an artist's perspective. We delve into the world of local Pacific Northwest artist, Spencer Reynolds, whose stunning coastal paintings are a reflection of the raw beauty and power of the Oregon coast. We speak with Spencer about his unique artistic style and the inspiration he draws from the rugged landscapes …

Dr. Win McLaughlin, a geology professor at Southwestern Oregon Community College, provides us with a deep understanding of the geology, history, and ecology of the Oregon coast. The Oregon coast is filled with unique geology which is characterized by its young age and the presence of sand dunes formed during the ice ages. She describes how the sand…

We delve into the intricacies of weather patterns along the Oregon coast with Dr. Paul Loikith, an Associate Professor of Weather and Climate Science at Portland State University. Dr. Leuketh provides valuable insights into heavy storms called atmospheric rivers, emphasizing their significance in influencing extreme weather events like heavy precip…

Join us as we explore the intersection of gravel cycling and public land access, uncovering the untapped potential of landlocked areas for outdoor enthusiasts. Our GIS Specialist, Ben Purcell, who has been working with the Bureau of Land Management since 2017 happens to be a bit of a map enthusiast himself and delves into the potential benefits and…

In this episode of The Connection, we delve into the rich history and cultural significance of the Nez Perce homeland through the insightful perspectives of Katie Harris Murphy, Vice Chair / VP of Board, Wallowa Band Descendant and Joshua Sigmund, Facilities and Grounds Director at the Nez Perce Valhalla Homeland. Located in Eastern Oregon, the Nez…

This episode is part of our logging series which covers topics in safety, education, and what we need to know as recreationalists in active logging areas. In this episode, we connect back with Jennifer Beathe, Forester and Outreach manager of Starker Forests and Austin Finster, owner and operator of Finster Forestry. We have an open discussion abou…

In this episode, the Dirty Freehub team goes on a tour to Alder Creek Tree farm with Jennifer Beathe, Forester and Outreach Manager of Starker Forests. During the ride to Alder Creek Tree farm in Corvallis, Oregon, we dive into identifying the recreational and rider safety around logging operations, the dangers involved in this type of work, what t…

In this episode, the Dirty Freehub team goes on a tour to Alder Creek Tree farm with Jennifer Beathe, Forester and Outreach Manager of Starker Forests. During the drie to Alder Creek Tree farm in Corvallis, Oregon, we dive into identifying the recreational and rider safety around logging operations, the dangers involved in this type of work, what t…

If you've ever cycled through Oregon, you might have passed under the canopy of a Red Alder tree. In this episode, we chat with Glenn Ahrens, an extension forester from Oregon State University, about everything related to alders and conifers. We'll also explore various tree species native to Oregon, learn how to identify them, and discover what a f…

Jason Kirchner joins us from Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife in Newport, Oregon to dive into one of nature’s most enigmatic creatures: the wolverine. As the District Wildlife Biologist, he answers questions like: What are wolverines? What do they look like? How do they behave? Where do they reside? Separating fact from fiction, we will revea…

Located in Harney Basin in eastern Oregon, Malheur Lake sits within the 187,000 acres of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, an area that is an important wildlife habitat. Aquatic Biologist, Dominic Bachman, at Malheur National Wildlife Refuge shares insights into whether this body of water is really a lake or not, ecology, history, and conservation …

Did Oregon even have black pioneers? Listen to our interview with Zachary Stocks, Executive Director of Oregon Black Pioneers (a non profit which preserves the history of Black Oregonians) to find out more about this whole topic. When did black pioneers arrive in Oregon? What were some of the places where we ride bicycles today that were utilized b…

Riding next to scenic terrain, such as the Wallowa Mountains, are often in very remote and rural areas. Many of these rural areas in Oregon are active rural areas so while you may be out for a Sunday morning gravel ride, there are many ranchers actively working. Listen in on Eric Makela, the Vice President of the Wallowa Mountains Bicycling Club, a…

Discover the mysteries of the Newberry Caldera and its volcanic activities spanning half a million years. Whether you are riding Creek to Peak or looking for thermals, Ranger Randy and Dr. Daniel Macakay of University of Oregon answer many of your questions about this geological formation in Central Oregon. In this podcast, they also discuss the fe…

Welcome to Pine Mountain Observatory, nestled in the serene landscapes of Oregon about 34 miles southeast of Bend. In this episode, we unveil the highlights of the night sky with our guest, "astro monk" Alton Luke, Head of Operations at Pine Mountain Observatory and a key figure in the University of Oregon's Physics Department. Today we get to peer…

Have you ever encountered a jumping cacti? More specifically, the jumping cholla cactus in Arizona? If you have ridden our Rock Art or Bring a Fork routes in Arizona then you have dodged more than a few of these spiky cacti. Today we interview Peter Breslin who holds his Ph.D. in Environmental Life Sciences and focuses his research on evolution, bi…

Do you ever see some bright green, shrubby looking creature on a gravel ride? This organism is likely Letharia Vulpina (and no it does not have magic or poisonous powers like a spell) which is also knows as Wolf Lichen. Bryologist, mycologist, and lichenologist Tim Wheeler works to dedicate his life studies towards nonvascular plants and over the l…

Where do beavers live? What's their impact on other wildlife? How do they impact the surrounding property where they live? When should we reintroduce them? Can you relocate a beaver? Are they a protected species in Oregon? How have the laws recently changed about beavers? Listen to our interview with Maureen Thompson, the Manager of the Beaver Work…

They may be cute ... but are wild burros actually helpful or harmful? Dr. Erick Lundgren who is an ecologist with a lot of research concerning wild burros, horses, and other introduced megafauna discusses the topic of wild burros (which are also called wild donkeys). He addresses perspectives that might encourage you to look at these animals a litt…

Travel Oregon recently announced they will fund the nonprofit Dirty Freehub to create 20 to 25 gravel cycling All Access Ride Guides across the state of Oregon. These electronic guides are designed to help adaptive athletes, ebikers or other cyclists such as the 75 year old athlete with aerobic challenges, the person who got busy with life and gain…

The juniper tree is an iconic tree across Central and Eastern Oregon and yet, in some places they are being removed. Find out the real scoop about this unique tree from Gena Goodman-Campbell who is the Stewardship Director at ONDA (Oregon Natural Desert Association) where she works to engage volunteers in hands-on restoration projects in Oregon's h…

Today we meet with Patti Lynch, a former Law Enforcement officer, to talk about Search and Rescue and what that looks like in times of trouble. When should you call Search and Rescue and what happens on their side to deploy a rescue. As a cyclist, what should you carry that will really make a difference when things go south. This podcast is produce…

Our first remote episode, we recorded this one from a cabin in Truckee during a Tahoe weekend with the all the boys. Local shredders Logan Dewey, Isaiah Thornton & Justin Niemi to sit down with Jackson and talk about our weekend, our favorite trails, foam pits, pet peeves, and lessons learned from years of riding. We also get a quick cameo from the…

In this definitely on topic episode, We ask ChatGPT for questions to host the podcast and that leads to us devolving in a variety of topics. We wanted to get an episode with video so bare with us as this was the first time recoding on camera.By Jackson May and Mateo Sanabria

Learn about Joseph, which is a town in Eastern Oregon, as Chris talks with Jude Graham who is the Wallowa County Museum Curator. They discuss history, art, culture, events and activities. Among other things, Joseph even hosts a qualifier for the Iditarod! With so much great gravel cycling in Joseph, we are sure this will just give you one more reas…

Meet Harley Rustad, author of “Big Lonely Doug: The Story of One of Canada’s Last Great Trees.” In this episode, Dirty Freehub’s Sarah Burch interviews Harley about his book for the READ & RIDE program. Learn what inspired Harley to write Big Lonely Doug, how his book has impacted the ecotourism and environmental movements, and so much more! This p…

After not recoding for 2 months, we are back on the pod catching about about our summer adventures, injures, and future plans for the pod. No guests this time, if you listen all the way through this one, you a real one.By Jackson May and Mateo Sanabria

Let's meet Ken Wu, former Executive Director and co-founder of the Ancient Forest Alliance, who has spent years protecting ancient forests in British Columbia, including being a major player in protecting the Big Lonely Doug. Ken tells how he named the iconic Doug Fir tree which is located in Vancouver Island. He also talks about how the indigenous…

Meet TJ Watt, Big Tree Hunter and co-founder of the Ancient Forest Alliance. TJ is an award-winning nature and conservation photographer from British Columbia whose images have helped bolster campaigns to secure the protection of important environmental areas. In this episode, TJ explains how he got interested in big trees, what it's like to climb …

In Yachats, Oregon the town pays tribute to indigenous heritage through a story about Amanda. How did this one story come to represent the history of the local tribe? Joanne Kittel started out wanting to donate 1/2 miles of land in Yachats, Oregon to support the Oregon Coast Trail. This turned into 30 years of research and advocacy work about the l…

This podcast explorers how Kristen and Ville Jokinen met and fell in love while scuba diving in Vietnam. Ville then left his native Finland to join Kristen in Oregon, and together they embarked on a life-changing two-year cycling adventure covering 18,000 miles from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, to Ushuaia, Argentina. Despite never having cycled further tha…

In March 2022, Chris Cole, a local Bend artist, installed a new sculpture in the Discovery West neighborhood. This new public art in Bend, Oregon is a tribute to Annie Londonderry, the first women to bicycle around the world in 1894 and 1895. The seven foot tall, inverted pyramid design includes decorative bike cogs, ship window, and illuminated im…

You've seen his videos online, now listen as Sebastian (@nrml_mtber) joins us to chat about his latest travels around the country, how him and his brother got started uploading videos, favorite places to ride, struggles of being a full time content creator, sponsorships, future travels, and much much more!…