PODCAST · society
DF Connection
by Dirty Freehub
A Podcast connecting gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people and places.
Episodes
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Malheur Field Station: Cycling, Science, Nature, and Community
Situated directly within the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in Oregon, the field station is a nonprofit educational facility and friendly lodging basecamp for travelers, scientists, families, and gravel cyclists. Our guest Elizabeth Basa, Executive Director of the Malheur Field Station…
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Gravel Champ: The Adaptive Mindset with Skye Chaney
In 2017, a mountain biking crash on Moab's Porcupine Rim left Skye Chaney with a spinal cord injury, seven broken ribs, and a fractured sternum. In this episode, Skye takes us from that first ride back on an adaptive mountain bike to the gravel roads of Central Oregon and beyond, tracing a path...
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Wild & Scenic River
This podcast episode features National Park Service experts discussing the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, a federal law passed in 1968 to protect natural waterways. To earn this designation, a river must remain free-flowing and possess at least one outstandingly remarkable value, such as unique...
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Wolf Rock: The Ancient Volcanic Core of Oregon
In this podcast episode, Dr. Kim Ely aka the "Rock Doc" discusses the geological origins and unique features of Wolf Rock, a massive volcanic monolith located in the Willamette National Forest. As the largest monolith in Oregon, this site represents the eroded core of an ancient volcano that...
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The Geological Puzzle of Wildcat Mountain Caldera
This podcast episode features a discussion with a Geological Survey and Services Program Manager Jason D. McClaughry regarding the unique characteristics of the Wildcat Mountain Caldera in Oregon. A caldera is described as a massive volcanic depression formed when a volcano collapses into its own...
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Guardian of the Sagebrush: Understanding the Greater Sage Grouse
In this podcast episode from Dirty Freehub, conservation expert Skyler Vold describes the greater sage grouse as a foundational and visually striking bird of the Western United States. These birds are sagebrush obligates, meaning they depend entirely on that specific habitat for food and shelter,...
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Jennifer Ware Kempcke | The Artist
In this episode of The Connection podcast, Jennifer Ware-Kempcke discusses her artistic journey and her collaboration with Dirty Freehub to create the cover art for the Deschutes River Basin gravel cycling guidebook. As a dedicated watercolorist and teacher, Jennifer explains how her work is…
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Taming the Thorn: Managing Goatheads in Gravel Cycling
This podcast excerpt features an interview with ecologist Martha Brabec of Boise Parks and Recreation regarding the impact of goatheads, an invasive and noxious weed common in the American West. These plants are notorious for producing sharp, puncture-prone seeds that frequently damage bicycle...
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Dwarf Mistletoe in Oregon
In this episode, we sit down with David Shaw, a Professor Emeritus in the College of Forestry at Oregon State University, to explore the fascinating ecology and management of Oregon's dwarf mistletoe. While heavy infestations can deform trees by creating massive, dense branch structures known as...
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History of Timber at Coos Bay
In this episode, we’re joined by Sire Pro from the Coos History Museum to explore how the timber industry built Coos Bay from the ground up. Towering forests and deep-water ports shaped more than just the landscape of Coos Bay—they shaped an entire community. We dive into the early 20th-century...
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Gravel Champ: Rick Marshall Living with PTSD
In this episode we sit down with Rick Marshall, a retired Army Major, veteran, and cyclist, for an honest conversation about living with PTSD and finding moments of calm on two wheels. This isn’t a story about fixing trauma or pushing through pain. It’s about learning, over time, how movement,...
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Gravel Champ: David Dietz Living with Parkinson's Disease
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with David Dietz — a passionate Bend, Oregon cyclist navigating life and the road with Parkinson’s Disease. David shares how he first fell in love with riding and what his cycling routine looks like today. David shares about the learning curve of adapting…
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Gravel Champ: Jim Sipe Living with Type 1 Diabetes
Jim Sipe is an avid cyclist and writer who shares about his journey living and riding with Type 1 diabetes. Today, he offers a personal look into how he prepares, adapts, and stays safe while pursuing a sport he loves. Whether you live with Type 1 diabetes, love long-distance rides, or enjoy...
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Camp Polk Meadow Preserve
A blend of history and ecological restoration, Camp Polk Meadows Preserve is a thriving haven for fish, wildlife, and native species thanks to years of dedicated restoration. In this episode, we learn about the unique challenges of balancing conservation with public access, history of the site…
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Whale Watching on the Oregon Coast
Whale Watching on the Oregon Coast invites gravel cyclists and nature lovers to discover the magic of whale migrations along one of the most scenic coastlines in the U.S. This episodes shares about how to connect with the whales, best seasons for sightings, and unusual whale mortality events as...
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Japanese Bomb Site
In this episode, we uncover one of Oregon's most surprising World War II stories: the only mainland U.S. bombing by enemy aircraft. In 1942, a Japanese pilot launched from a submarine off the coast of Brookings and dropped incendiary bombs on Mt. Emily, aiming to spark chaos and forest fires....
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Inside my Body - David Toste
Meet David Toste, or "Toast" as we call him at Dirty Freehub. In today’s episode, Toast and I discuss about the inspirations and challenges cycling with multiple sclerosis a condition that has shaped his journey into gravel cycling. Instead of focusing on limitations, he celebrate what his body…
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Getting back on the bike - Giselle Distad
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...
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Adaptive Athelete - Geoff Babb
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...
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Cycling for all - Don Miller
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…
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Michael Orwick - The Artist
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...
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Marbled Murrelet
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...
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Monterey Cypress
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...
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Keep it Local: Local Ocean Seafoods with Tony Bixler
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....
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Livestock Dogs
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.…
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30 Minutes Over Oregon with Illustrator Melissa Iwai
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...
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Cobra Lily: Nature's Unique Carnivorous Plant
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...
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The HooDoos and Lake Billy Chinook Cliffs
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,...
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The Mysterious Neskowin Ghost Forest on the Oregon Coast
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…
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Spencer Reynolds - The Artist
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...
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Oregon Sand Dunes
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...
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A Climate Scientist’s Guide to the Oregon Coast
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...
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Navigating Landlocked Public Lands: Insights from a GIS Specialist
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…
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Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland
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...
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Log Trucks: Rider Safety Part II
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...
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Log Trucks: General Logging Operations
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...
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Log Trucks: Rider Safety Part I
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...
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Red Alder Trees
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...
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Wolverines - Fact or Fiction?
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…
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Deceptive Waters of Malheur Lake
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…
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Oregon Black Pioneers
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...
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Rural Riding Etiquette
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...
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Newberry Caldera
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...
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Pine Mountain Observatory: Exploring the Cosmos
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...
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Jumping Cholla: Does This Cacti Really Jump?
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…
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Wolf Lichen: It's not a Harry Potter spell...it's Letharia Vulpina
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...
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All Things Beavers
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...
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Wild Burros: Helpful or Harmful?
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…
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All Access Ride Guides
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...
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Controversial Juniper Trees
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...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does DF Connection have?
DF Connection currently has 139 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is DF Connection about?
A Podcast connecting gravel cyclists to where they ride through stories about culture, history, people and places.
How often does DF Connection release new episodes?
DF Connection publishes regularly with 139 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to DF Connection?
You can listen to DF Connection on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts DF Connection?
DF Connection is created and hosted by Dirty Freehub.
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