Meet the Sequim Chamber: Promoting Outdoor Wonders, Businesses, and Community Spirit

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series podcast! In this episode, we chat with Beth Pratt, the executive director of the Sequim Dungeness Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center. Nestled in the stunning upper left corner of Washington state, Sequim is a community that boasts an incredible mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and vibrant local culture.

Beth takes us on a journey through this unique region, where the Olympic Mountains meet the coast and the famed Dungeness crab thrives. She shares insights into Sequim’s remarkable "blue hole" climate, its renowned festivals, and how the area's blend of arid plains, rainforests, and mountain ranges makes it a hub for outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to birding and kayaking.

We also explore the Chamber of Commerce's behind-the-scenes work supporting small businesses, cultivating community connections, and advocating for sustainable tourism.

DISCUSSION

00:00 Olympic Peninsula's Varied Climates

05:03 Dungeness Crab and Lobster Adventures

08:23 "Chamber of Commerce's Key Role"

12:40 Lavender Festival Threatened by Compliance Issue

17:51 Engage Chamber Before Developing Land

23:17 Visit Information for Coastal Parks

26:25 Squim Wheelers' Adaptive Bicycle Program

33:22 Diverse Board Leadership Overview

37:02 Interconnected Community Collaborations

40:17 Honoring Essential Workers and Donors

43:22 Tribal Sovereignty and Local Partnerships

46:24 Influencing Outdated Regulations Quickly

48:41 Neutral Stance on Political Endorsements

53:40 Discovering Dungeness Valley Paradise

54:16 Chamber Influence: Business & Community

CONNECT WITH THE SEQUIM CHAMBER

Learn more about Sequim, WA, by visiting the Sequim Dungeness Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center Website at https://www.sequimchamber.com/, and follow them on their social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sequimchamber/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sequim_chamber/

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Sequim Dungeness Valley Chamber of Commerce, Sequim WA, Olympic National Park, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast

#SequimChamber #SequimWA #OlympicNationalPark #OutdoorAdventures #Podcast

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Creating Inclusive Spaces: Disability Advocacy, Outdoor Access, and Inclusion in Your Community.

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today's episode, we sit down with Jenna Udenberg, an inspiring disability advocate, accessibility educator, and author of the book Within My Spokes.

Growing up in the rugged beauty of northern Minnesota, Jenna’s journey has been shaped by her early diagnosis of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and a lifetime of navigating—and working to improve—accessibility in her community.

Jenna shares how her love of the outdoors, music, and resilient spirit led her from being a band director to founding her nonprofit, Above and Beyond with You. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs she faced as a wheelchair user in a rural setting, the evolution of accessibility in her hometown of Two Harbors, and her drive to ensure everyone can enjoy nature’s wonders.

DISCUSSION

00:00 "Introductions"

03:22 Overcoming Trauma Through Music

09:25 "Supportive Band Teachers' Impact"

10:02 Adaptation Challenges in Education

14:12 Improving Accessibility Conversations

17:28 Adaptive Outdoor Exploration

22:15 Community Connection Through Stories

24:13 "True Accessibility Needs Better Communication"

27:55 Embracing the Book Writing Journey

33:04 Enhancing Accessibility in Storytelling

37:21 "Embrace Curiosity and Overcome Labels"

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Jenna and her work, visit her website at https://www.aboveandbeyondwithu.org/ and follow her on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091881005060

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aboveandbeyondwithu/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/above-beyond-with-u/

Click here to pick up a copy of Jenna's book, " Within My Spokes: A Tapestry of Pain, Growth & Freedom.

NEXT STEPS

If you enjoy podcasts devoted to outdoor adventure, find us online at https://outdooradventureseries.com. We welcome likes, comments, and shares.

KEYWORDS

Jenna Udenberg, Accessibility, Disability, Diversity & Inclusion, Author, Two Harbors, Howard Fox, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast, PodMatch

#JennaUdenberg #OutdoorAccessibility #Disability #DiversityAndInclusion #Author #TwoHarborsMN #OutdoorAdventureSeries #Podcast #PodMatch

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Discover Kamiah: Tourism, Community Events, and Outdoor Fun

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today’s episode, we sit down with Janet Brennan, the Kamiah Chamber of Commerce vice president in northern Idaho. Janet shares the rich history of Kamiah—a community that reinvented itself from its logging roots to a vibrant outdoor recreation and tourism destination.

DISCUSSION

1. Kamiah, Idaho: Location and Overview

2. History and Evolution of Kamiah

3. The Kamiah Chamber of Commerce

4. Janet’s Role as Vice President

5. Kamiah Chamber Infrastructure and Operations

6. Transition to a Tourism-Based Economy

7. Life as a New Resident in Kamiah

8. Outdoor Recreation and Personal Passions

9 Community Challenges and Collaborative Solutions

10 Signature Events and Activities in Kamiah

• Annual Free Barbecue Days
• Fourth of July parade
• Christmas celebrations
• St. Patrick’s Day
• Contributions from local businesses, e.g., Kami Steakhouse and Grill’s year-round events

11. Arts, Culture, and Local Businesses

• Coffee shops and gathering spaces (The Loft)
• Community pride in local food and beverage offerings
• Notable businesses: Hearthstone Elegant Lodge, Pizza Factory, K Hotel and Bar, Sassy Spodge
• Exploring Kamiah: Digital Tour of the Chamber Website

12. Native American Heritage and The Nez Perce

• Historical context of the Nez Perce Reservation and its continuing cultural presence
• Lewis and Clark connection
• Annual powwow and Itsye Casino as cultural highlights

CONNECT WITH THE KAMIAH BAY CHAMBER

To Learn more about Kamiah, Idaho, visit the Kamiah Chamber of Commerce website at https://www.kamiahchamber.com/, and follow them on their social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KamiahChamber/

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Kamiah ID, Kamiah Chamber of Commerce, Visit North Central Idaho, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast

#KamiahID #KamiahChamberofCommerce #VisitNorthCentralIdaho #OutdoorAdventureSeries #Podcast

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Visit Chicago Southland: Nature, Food, Sports, and Community.

In today’s Outdoor Adventure Series episode, we sit with Mary Patchin, President and CEO of Visit Chicago Southland, to spotlight the vibrant communities just south and southwest of Chicago's city limits.

Mary shares a behind-the-scenes look at how her organization connects visitors to the region’s diverse offerings, from bustling town centers and family-friendly attractions to expansive forest preserves and trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

You’ll hear what sets the Chicago Southland apart as a destination—whether you’re a meeting planner, a sports team, or a family searching for adventure—and get a taste of its unique mix of urban, suburban, and rural experiences.

So, whether you’re a lifelong Chicagoan or simply scouting your next getaway, this episode is packed with ideas and inspiration for your next outdoor adventure in the Chicago Southland.

DISCUSSION

1. Overview of Visit Chicago Southland

2. Demographics and Coverage Area

3. Attracting Meetings, Events, and Tourism

4. Collaboration and Integration with Chicago-Based Attractions

5. Evolution of the Meetings and Tourism Industry

6. Unique Qualities of Southland Communities

7. Outdoor Recreation and Natural Amenities

8. Vision and Future Plans for the Organization

9. Website Demonstration and Visitor Planning Tools

10. Accessibility and Inclusivity

11. Food and Beverage Scene

12. Reflections on Tourism, Community, and Ambassadorship

13. Recognition of the Visit Chicago Southland Team

CONNECT WITH VISIT CHICAGO SOUTHLAND

Learn more about Visit Chicago Southland on their website at https://www.visitchicagosouthland.com, and follow their social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChicagoSouthland

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitsouthland

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ChicagoSouthlandCVB

x: https://twitter.com/VisitSouthland

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chicago-southland-convention-&-visitors-bureau

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Mary Patchin, Visit Chicago Southland, Chicago Southland, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast

#MaryPatchin #VisitChicagoSouthland #ChicagoSouthland #OutdoorAdventureSeries #Podcast

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Discover Birch Bay, Washington: Seasonal Fun and Small-Town Charm.

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we're chatting with Sacha Sanguinetti, the Event Coordinator for the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Information Center. Nestled just seven miles south of the Canadian border in Washington’s beautiful Pacific Northwest, Birch Bay is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking sunsets, accessible shoreline, and vibrant small-town community.

You’ll also hear about the welcoming spirit of the businesses and organizations that bring the community together, and why Birch Bay is truly a four-season destination. Whether you’re planning your next family getaway, searching for great food and local brews, or simply looking for a peaceful spot to unwind by the water, this episode is packed with inspiring stories and practical tips to make your visit to Birch Bay unforgettable.

DISCUSSION

1. Overview of Birch Bay
2. Geographic Location of Birch Bay
3. Role and Daily Activities of the Chamber & Visitor Information Center
4. Birch Bay Chamber Membership and Community Partners
5. Four Seasons and Climate of Birch Bay
6. Signature Events and Activities in Birch Bay
7. Online Resources and Visitor Planning
8. Dining, Coffee, and Local Food Scene
9. Social Media and Community Engagement

CONNECT WITH THE BIRCH BAY CHAMBER

Learn more about Birch Bay, WA, visit the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Information Center website at https://birchbaychamber.com/, and follow them on their social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BirchBayChamber/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birchbaychamberofcommerce

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgitvosY3roaQYwY1nLEYjQ

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/birch-bay-chamber-of-commerce-19694135/

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce, Birch Bay WA, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast

#BirchBayChamberofCommerce #BirchBay WA #OutdoorAdventures #Podcast

My Favorite Podcast Tools:

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3. Show Notes by Castmagic
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5. Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch

Visit Cullman: Festivals, Outdoor Adventures, and Southern Charm.

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series. In today's episode, we're chatting with Harmony Heard, the Executive Director of Visit Cullman in Alabama.

Harmony shares about the area’s rapid growth, award-winning festivals, unique agritourism experiences, and endless outdoor adventure opportunities. From the famous Alabama Strawberry Festival and authentic German Christkindlmarkt, to skydiving, glamping, and world-class bass fishing on Smith Lake, Cullman has something for everyone.

DISCUSSION

1. Location and Community Overview

• Emphasis on Cullman’s Southern hospitality and welcoming atmosphere
• Formation of the tourism bureau through legislation in 2022.
• Senator Garlan Gudger’s role in advancing Cullman tourism.

2. Attractions and Popular Events

• Festivals:
  • Alabama Strawberry Festival
  • Oktoberfest: celebration of Cullman’s German heritage.
  • Rock the South
  • German Christkindl Market
• Tourism growth: A “Hallmark town” reputation.
• Religious sites: Ave Maria Grotto and the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament
• Smith Lake

3. Hospitality and Accommodations

• Local hotels, Boutique options, and unique Airbnbs.

4. Sports and Recreation Facilities

• The Omniplex, a multi-use, state-of-the-art sports facility
• Field of Miracles (adaptive baseball field)
• Wild Water Water Park

5. Outdoor Adventure Opportunities

• Skydiving
• Water and forest activities include ziplining, boating, camping, hiking, and glamping at the Palomino Resort.
• The historical Clarkson Covered Bridge and Duck River trails are for hiking and outdoor exposure.
• Agritourism: local farms, fresh produce, and local meats.

6. Fishing and Sporting Events

• Hosting of Bassmasters and Major League Fishing tournaments
• Future events with the Alabama Bass Trail.

7. Local Food and Coffee Scene

• Historic dining: Busy Bee Café (since 1919) and Duchess Donuts
• Coffee shops: Karmas (locally roasted coffee) and Jubilee

8. Arts and Community Initiatives

• Southern Accents & Community Art Projects

CONNECT WITH VISIT CULLMAN

Visit the Cullman, AL website at https://visitcullman.com/ and follow their social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/visitcullman

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Visitcullmanal

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Visit Cullman, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast

#VisitCullman #OutdoorAdventureSeries #Podcast

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2. Hosting Buzzsprout
3. Show Notes by Castmagic
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Mindfulness and Healing in Nature: Hiking, Meditation, and Outdoor Transformation.

In this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Series, we're chatting with Mike Martin, a certified mindful hiking guide, wilderness first responder, and host of the Project Mindfully Outdoors podcast.

Mike opens up about his journey—growing up in Michigan, facing life’s darkest moments, discovering the healing power of nature and mindfulness, blending outdoor adventure with meditation, and creating transformative experiences for himself and others.

DISCUSSION

1. Mike’s Background and Personal Journey

• Upbringing in Michigan’s downriver area.
• Childhood experiences spent outdoors, especially with his grandfather
• The healing and grounding presence of nature

2. Overcoming Personal Adversity

• Struggles with identity, homelessness, and suicidal ideation.
• Marcus Aurelius and the Stoic philosophy

3. Blending Mindfulness and Outdoor Practice

• Blending outdoor experiences with mindfulness.
• Becoming a certified hiking guide and wilderness first responder.
• Formal meditation and Native American practices.

4. Structure and Delivery of Mindful Outdoor Experiences

• Workshop formats: libraries, trails, fireside meditations
• Teaching outdoor skills (fire building, shelter, safety) as meditative practices

5. Impact on Participants

• Client breakthroughs.
• The value of group facilitation and shared experience.

6. The Power of Being Present in Nature

• The connection between being outdoors and personal transformation.
• Slowing down, unplugging, and being mindful.
• Parallels between animal survival instincts and overcoming personal anxiety.

7. The Project Mindfully Outdoors Podcast

• Themes and key takeaways from five years of podcasting

8. Mike’s Book: Groundhog’s Wisdom

• Lessons learned from the metaphor of the groundhog: introspection, decision-making, and calculated action.

LEARN MORE

To learn more about Mike and his work, visit his website at https://projectmindfullyoutdoors.co/ and on these social sites:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/projectmindfullyoutdoorspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/projectmindfullyoutdoors_pc/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCck25oRJ5L0UAGjWiSUyRqw

NEXT STEPS

If you enjoy podcasts devoted to outdoor adventure, find us online at https://outdooradventureseries.com. We welcome likes, comments, and shares.

KEYWORDS

Mike Martin, Project Mindfully Outdoors Podcast, Howard Fox, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast, PodMatch

#MikeMartin #ProjectMindfullyOutdoorsPodcast #OutdoorAdventureSeries #Podcast #PodMatch

My Favorite Podcast Tools:

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3. Show Notes by Castmagic
4. Website powered by Podpage
5. Be a Podcast Guest by PodMatch

Visit Medina County: Outdoor Fun, Local Eats, and Community Pride.

Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Series! In today’s episode, we sit down with Jodi Robbins, Executive Director, and Matt Horner, Programs Coordinator, from Visit Medina County and the Medina County Convention and Visitors Bureau in Ohio. Nestled just 20 miles south of Cleveland, Medina County is a hidden gem home to vibrant small towns, award-winning parks, and culinary finds, all set against a community that prides itself on being welcoming and full of possibilities.

DISCUSSION

1. Medina County: Location and Accessibility

• Importance of being a regional crossroads
• Promotion of Medina County as a weekend getaway destination

2. Conferences, Meetings, and Group Tourism

• Efforts to attract meetings, conventions, and team-building retreats
• Example venues: Galaxy Event Venue, attached hotels

3. Attractions and Unique Offerings

• Medina County Park District: diversity of parks, amenities, accessibility
  • Unique urban parks
  • Dog-friendly spaces and wildlife protection areas
• Unique venues and local landmarks:
  • Castle Noel: America’s largest Christmas attraction
    • Hollywood costumes, props, and movie memorabilia
    • Special features (Uncle Eddie’s RV, themed rooms)
    • New York City store windows
• Farmers markets: local food, potential for midweek markets, upcoming Market 42

4. Culinary Scene: Recommendations and Local Favorites

• Breakfast spots: Jane’s Diner, Circle on the Square (notable donut selection)
• Lunch/Dinner/Treat options: Monarca Cantina (authentic Mexican, margaritas), Time Squared (fine dining and pub fare).

5. Community Structure and Collaboration

• Role of historical societies and the historical council
• Collaboration among municipalities for tourism

CONNECT WITH VISIT MEDINA COUNTY

Learn more about Medina County on their website at https://www.visitmedinacounty.com/ and follow their social media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/medinacountyconventionandvisitorsbureau

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visit.medina.county.ohio/

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@visitmedinacountycvb?si=iaq3UUfiSc_LwiTD

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/medina-county-convention-and-visitors-bureau/

NEXT STEPS

Visit us at https://outdooradventureseries.com to like, comment, and share our episodes.

KEYWORDS

Visit Medina County, Medina County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Outdoor Adventure Series, Podcast

#VisitMedinaCounty #VisitOhio #OutdoorAdventures #Podcast

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