It’s not difficult to find a podcast these days. Throw a stick at any corner of the internet, and you’ll likely bonk a few. (Or a few hundred.) Still, it can be hard to locate an outdoor podcast that’s actually worth listening to. Which is why we curated a list of five exceptional podcasts that delve into the outdoor experience with genuine passion and insightful perspectives. Even better? They’re all produced by Missouri-based hosts, and they’re all available on major podcast platforms. Give one a listen the next time you crave a dose of adventure.
Nature Boost
This monthly podcast from the Missouri Department of Conservation explores all things nature in the Show-Me State. Recent episodes have taken deep dives into the prevalence of mountain lions in Missouri, the facts and myths about cicadas, and the breeding habits of the Ozark hellbender. (It’s a giant salamander, not a serial killer.)
The Mississippi Valley Traveler Podcast
If you listen to only one podcast about a river this year, make it this one. Hosted by Dean Klinkenberg, author of The Wild Mississippi and a frequent contributor to Terrain, this podcast celebrates the history, culture, and cuisine of the Mississippi River, from the serene bluffs of Minnesota to the jambalaya of New Orleans and everything in between.
The Running for Real Podcast
This weekly podcast from St. Louis resident and former professional runner Tina Muir aims to inspire, and it’s supported in this mission by a slew of big-name guests like Malcolm Gladwell, Ryan Holiday, Rich Roll, and Kara Goucher. Pro tip: Listen to it while you run. Just don’t be thrown off by Muir’s accent — she’s originally from England.
The World’s Okayest Mountain Bike Podcast
The hosts of this pod are self-proclaimed mountain bike nerds who are all too happy to dispense their opinions on everything from enduro tires to coil shocks. But they don’t just talk the talk. They’re also actively involved with Shepherd Mountain Bike Park and the St. Louis mountain biking scene. (Are they good mountain bikers? They’re okay.)
Driftwood Outdoors Podcast
It’s tough to sum up this weekly podcast from newspaper columnist Brandon Butler and radio DJ Nathan “Shags” McLeod. The hosts tackle conservation and outdoor recreation in Missouri, but they also leave plenty of time for tangents, rants, jokes, and guests. Speaking of which, the Terrain editors were featured on a recent episode (#244).
Author: Shawn Donnelly is the managing editor of Terrain.
Top image: Yacob Chuk.