Best Casual Climbers Podcasts (2024)

1
Trail Snacks: Toccoa Swinging Bridge Trail 16:12

4d ago16:12

16:12

In this week's Trail Snacks episode, we cover the Toccoa Swinging Bridge Trail in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest in north Georgia. This short, beautiful trail is a must-do for anyone near Blue Ridge, Ga..By Casual Climbers

1
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest: Fall Branch Falls Trail 49:45

12d ago49:45

49:45

In this week's full episode, we discuss a short, but rewarding trail in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest: Fall Branch Falls Trail. Donna's Fun Fact is about the earliest known sightings of a bigfoot creature in the area (Tsul'Kalu), and we review an amazing place to stay while in the area -- Bearfoot Bungalow in Blue Ridge, Ga. A special of…

1
Trail Snacks: Davidson River Trail 16:10

16d ago16:10

16:10

In this week's Trail Snacks episode, we cover Davidson River Trail in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, North Carolina. This is the first trail we've reviewed where we actually do not recommend it to anyone hiking. This trail is clearly a mountain biker's paradise, but the narrowness and blind corners makes this a bad trail for walking hiker…

1
Pisgah National Forest: Lovers Leap Loop 1:02:32

17d ago1:02:32

1:02:32

In this week's full episode, we discuss a short, but very challenging trail in the Pisgah National Forest of North Carolina: Lovers Leap Loop. Donna's Fun Fact is about Kathleen Lipe and her survival story during the Great Flood of 1916 near Asheville, NC, and we review whitewater rafting right there on the French Broad River through Nantahala Outd…

1
Top 5 Trails: Mid-Year Edition 38:12

26d ago38:12

38:12

In this special episode, Roy and Donna discuss the top five trails we've covered so far: Pinnacle Mountain Falls Trail; Craggy Gardens Trail; Triple Falls, High Falls, Hooker Falls Trail; Carrick Creek Loop; and Abrams Falls Trail. Which one will take the top spot? Don't forget to check out their trail photos at casualclimbers.com and subscribe to …

1
Trail Snacks: Eva Chandler Heritage Preserve Loop 16:55

1M ago16:55

16:55

In this week's Trail Snacks episode, we cover the Eva Chandler Heritage Preserve trail in Cleveland, SC. This very short trail offers a stunning vista of the Blue Ridge Mountains and we have dubbed it "Baby Bald Rock." This secluded, fairly unknown trail is definitely on our must-see list for anyone in the area.…

1
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Abrams Falls Trail 58:58

1M ago58:58

58:58

In this week's full episode, we discuss a challenging, but tremendously enjoyable trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: the Abrams Falls Trail . Donna's Fun Fact is about Cades Cove, where Abrams Falls is located, and we review a nice hotel to stay at during your GSMNP trip: Tremont Lodge and Resort in Townsend, TN.…

1
Trail Snacks: Buckeye Trail and Spruce Flats Falls 20:47

2M ago20:47

20:47

In this week's Trail Snacks episode, we cover Buckeye Trail leading to Spruce Flats Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This short, but challenging trail features a great payoff with a spectacular waterfall at the end, but also a surprising mountain vista halfway through. We also congratulate Sklyar and Laura, who got engaged right th…

1
Montreat Wilderness: Graybeard, Harry Bryan, and Sanctuary Loop Trail 53:56

2M ago53:56

53:56

In this week's full episode, we discuss a short hike in Montreat, NC: The Graybeard, Harry Bryan, and Sanctuary Loop Trail. Donna talks about the history of the quaint little town, including the story of an amazing young settler, Dr. Mary A. Holbrook, and we review a great restaurant nearby: The Berliner Kindl German Restaurant.…

1
Trail Snack: Crabtree Falls Loop 26:19

2M ago26:19

26:19

This week features a new format for some of our podcasts: Trail Snacks. Trail Snacks are bite-sized episodes that only feature a trail review. This week, we cover Crabtree Falls Loop Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. This great trail features not only the tallest waterfall on the Blue Ridge Parkway, but also a surprising mountain v…

1
DuPont State Forest: Triple Falls, High Falls, and Hooker Falls Trails 55:01

2M ago55:01

55:01

This week, we discuss an incredible trail route in North Carolina's DuPont State Forest: the Triple Falls, High Falls, and Hooker Falls trails. Donna talks about the Bedford Boys, men from a small town in Virginia who lost the most lives per capita during D-Day than any other in the U.S., and we review our favorite hiking water shoes - Eddie Bauer …

1
Blue Ridge Parkway: Graveyard Fields Loop Trail 44:43

3M ago44:43

44:43

This week, we discuss a waterfall loop trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Graveyard Fields Loop with upper and lower falls spurs. Donna talks about the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute and reviews her favorite hiking boots - Keen Pyrenees.By Casual Climbers

1
Pisgah National Forest: Pink Beds Loop Trail 1:11:35

3M ago1:11:35

1:11:35

This week, we discuss a fascinating loop trail in the Pisgah National Forest, the Pink Beds Loop. Donna tells the story of the birth of forestry in the U.S., the amazing Edith Vanderbilt Dresser, and we review the Cradle of Forestry Visitor Center in the park.By Casual Climbers

1
Blue Ridge Parkway: Craggy Bottoms Trail 57:16

4M ago57:16

57:16

This week, we discuss a great trail right on the Blue Ridge Parkway: Craggy Gardens Trail. Donna tells the story of the first white settlers to the area and the bravery of two women, including an American patriot Ruth Davidson, and we review the Craggy Gardens Visitor Center right on the parkway.By Casual Climbers

1
Why I Run Special: Nims Purja – I run to achieve my goals 23:53

4M ago23:53

23:53

In this special one-off episode ahead of the 2024 Wings for Life World Run on May 5, Why I Run host Ayo Akinwolere sits down with the awe-inspiring Nims Purja. Nims is an ex-Ghurka and one of the world’s best mountaineers. He’s achieved some incredible physical feats – including summiting the world’s 14 tallest mountains at record-breaking speeds. …

1
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Metcalf Bottoms Trail 1:17:31

4M ago1:17:31

1:17:31

This week, we discuss a fairly easy, but historically significant trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: the Metcalf Bottoms trail and Walker Sisters homestead. Donna tells the story of the incredible and fascinating Walker Sisters of Greenbrier Cove, and I review GuideAlong, a great app for traveling.…

1
Table Rock State Park: Pinnacle Mountain Falls Trail 56:17

4M ago56:17

56:17

This week, we discuss a very challenging, but interesting trail at Table Rock State Park in South Carolina: the Pinnacle Mountain Falls trail. Donna tells the story of the prehistoric petroglyphs on the mountain, and I review my new favorite hiking backpack.By Casual Climbers

1
Keowee-Toxaway State Park: Natural Bridge Loop Trail 58:46

4M ago58:46

58:46

This week, we discuss a short, but beautiful trail at Keowee-Toxaway State Park in South Carolina: the Natural Bridge Loop trail. Donna tells the story of the now-submerged 18th century Fort Prince George, and we review Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower, the highest point in the state.By Casual Climbers

1
Jones Gap State Park: Rainbow Falls Trail 1:00:20

5M ago1:00:20

1:00:20

This week, we discuss the very challenging Rainbow Falls trail at Jones Gap State Park. Donna tells the story of famous American roadbuilder Solomon Jones, and we review a great local hangout and diner: F-Mart in Marietta, SC. This one definitely brought the pain for us unfit hikers, and you won't want to miss our tips to make it the best hike poss…

1
Stumphouse Tunnel and Issaqueena Falls 1:02:26

5M ago1:02:26

1:02:26

This week, we have an easy "two-fer" featuring the Issaqueena Falls waterfall and unfinished 19th century train tunnel in upstate South Carolina. We also discuss the tunnel history and construction and the legend about Issaqueena Falls, as well as a product review of my new favorite hiking accessory.…

1
Oconee State Park: Hidden Falls Trail 1:02:19

6M ago1:02:19

1:02:19

This week, we talk about a trail featuring two waterfalls in upstate South Carolina: Hidden Falls Trail at Oconee State Park. We also discuss the incredible historic Cherokee Trail Trees you can see on the trail, as well as the nearby Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina.By Casual Climbers

1
Oconee Station State Historical Site: Station Cove Falls Trail 58:00

6M ago58:00

58:00

This week, we talk about one of the easiest, yet most rewarding waterfall hikes in upstate South Carolina: The Station Cove Falls trail. We also discuss the 18th Century buildings at the park, as well as one of the coolest little produce stand/general stores in the region - Picket Post Produce.By Casual Climbers

1
Table Rock State Park: Carrick Creek Loop 43:36

6M ago43:36

43:36

This week, we discuss one of the most beautiful trails in upstate South Carolina: the Carrick Creek Loop at Table Rock State Park. Donna tells us the story of an early Table Rock hiker that you won't want to miss, and we talk about Aunt Sue's Country Corner.By Casual Climbers

1
Caesar's Head State Park: Raven Cliff Falls Trail 1:01:43

6M ago1:01:43

1:01:43

This week, we cover Raven Cliff Falls trail at Caesar's Head State Park. We also discuss the creation of the very unique Devil's Kitchen feature at the park, a great local coffee shop for a nice place to eat and recover, and we review we favorite hiking app. Also, Donna may just find Roy braiding Bigfoot's hair one day.…

1
Special Episode: Interview with Park Ranger Shawn Llewellyn 47:40

6M ago47:40

47:40

In this week's special episode, Donna and Roy interview Paris Mountain State Park Ranger Shawn Llewellyn, one of the architects of many trails in the South Carolina state park system. He gives us a ton useful information on trail design and upkeep, special tips on trails at the park, his favorite trails, and how new hikers can get the best experien…

1
Paris Mountain State Park Part 6: Sulphur Springs Trail 59:04

7M ago59:04

59:04

In our final episode in the Paris Mountain State Parks trail series, we review the park's flagship trail. We also introduce two new segments: Fun Facts and Product Reviews. In this week's Fun Facts, we discuss the hilarious story of Richard Pearis, the park's namesake. Donna and Roy review their trekking poles, and help new hikers understand what t…

1
Paris Mountain State Park Part 5: Feel-The-Burn Hikes 33:42

7M ago33:42

33:42

This week, we cover the tough Brissy Ridge and Pipsissewa trails. Overall, not our favorites, but there are some real highlights. Also, Donna rats out Roy for putting forest stuff in his mouth!By Casual Climbers

1
Paris Mountain State Park Part 4: Feel-The-Burn Hikes 48:33

7M ago48:33

48:33

This week, we cover the Kanuga and North Lake Loop trails - 6.65 miles of feel-the-burn outdoor fun. This is one you won't want to miss while at the park!By Roy Padrick

1
Paris Mountain State Park Part 3: Break-a-Sweat Hikes 48:50

7M ago48:50

48:50

In this episode, we detail two break-a-sweat hikes for beginners at Paris Mountain State Park: Sassafras Loop trail and the Sulpher-Springs/Firetower/Kanuga Loop trail. Designed for beginner hikers or out-of-shape middle-agers like us, this podcast will provide useful info on the difficulty of the hikes (the REAL difficulty), completion times, and …

1
Paris Mountain State Park Part 2: Easy Hikes 30:28

8M ago30:28

30:28

In this episode, we detail the two more easy hikes for beginners at Paris Mountain State Park: Mountain Creek Trail and Mountain Lake via Sulpher Springs. Designed for beginner hikers or out-of-shape middle-agers like us, this podcast will provide useful info on the difficulty of the hikes (the REAL difficulty), completion times, and tips for brand…

1
Paris Mountain State Park Part 1: Easy Hikes 39:46

8M ago39:46

39:46

In our inaugural episode, we detail the two easiest hikes for beginners at Paris Mountain State Park in Greenville, SC. Designed for beginner hikers or out-of-shape middle-agers like us, this podcast will provide useful info on the difficulty of the hikes (the REAL difficulty), completion times, and tips for brand new hikers.…

1
Bonus episode: Hear how the Wings for Life World Run 2023 went 22:07

1+ y ago22:07

22:07

Did you run with us this year in the Wings for Life World Run 2023? Even if you didn’t but are curious how it was for our hosts, Erin and Ayo, plus all the guests and listeners who ran it too… well, get listening to this bonus episode! They take a moment to chat with previous guest and GPS runner Jeric Yuen, hear about Ayo’s experience (spoiler: he…

1
I run to break boundaries with runner Bobbi Gibb 36:10

1+ y ago36:10

36:10

It’s the last episode until the big run and we are going out with a bang with the inspirational Bobbi Gibb. Bobbi was the first woman ever to run the Boston marathon and her story is one of resilience, perseverance and blind optimism. She broke every boundary around to run this race in 1966 and showed women everywhere they were capable of running m…

1
I run to listen… with a leading headphone technology expert 20:20

1+ y ago20:20

20:20

The simplicity of running is something we often praise on this podcast. Not needing anything but a pair of trainers and the outside world makes running one of the easiest sports for exercising, that’s for sure. However, it is kinda nice to geek out on good gear from time to time, and while Erin is away, self-confessed tech geek Ayo is doing just th…

1
I run for the freedom with Japanese surfer Kanoa Igarashi 18:14

1+ y ago18:14

18:14

Kanoa Igarashi is one formidable surfer and loves running to help him keep agile for the waves. His name translates to the ‘the free one’, so naturally he loves running for the freedom it gives him. In this episode, Ayo hears all about this, as well as the burgeoning Japanese surf scene, which is about to take the world by storm, and also what it w…

1
Bonus Episode – Well Far Daily 3:23

1+ y ago3:23

3:23

Here’s something very special for all the Why I Run listeners. Hosted by Amy Lane, Well Far Daily is a daily dose of tips and tricks to help you crush your running goals, one day at a time. Whether you're just starting out or looking to hit a new marathon PB, Well Far Daily combines advice from experts in the industry and Amy's extensive knowledge …

1
I run to switch my perspective with rock climber Emily Harrington 28:32

1+ y ago28:32

28:32

Erin talks with tenacious rock climber Emily Harrington. Emily fell in love with rock climbing when she was a child and has never looked back (or down!). She’s a force to be reckoned with on the cliffs and is five-time US National Champion in sport lead climbing. But when rock climbing is your job it can be hard to associate exercising with leisure…

1
I run to celebrate myself with running coach Marcus Brown and comedian Helen Thorn 33:00

1+ y ago33:00

33:00

It’s always nice to find time to celebrate your wins and running should be no exception – two people who know this all too well are today’s guests, podcasters Marcus Brown and Helen Thorn. Marcus is a running coach and host of the sensational A Runner’s Life podcast. He’s been on a massive journey with his running, which has even helped him get a d…

1
I run to live better with Scuderia AlphaTauri team principal Franz Tost 30:01

1+ y ago30:01

30:01

Franz Tost is the team principal of Formula One's Scuderia AlphaTauri, or as Ayo puts it, ‘the boss... the head honcho of the team’. Franz has a no-nonsense coaching style like no other, believing that dedication and passion are vital to success – both as a driver and as a person. (He also practises what he preaches and gets up every day at 5am for…

1
I run to spread joy with web developer Jeric Yuen 24:57

1+ y ago24:57

24:57

London-based web developer and running enthusiast Jeric Yuen shares his passion for GPS art – making pictures out of running routes. Host Erin Azar hears all about how the idea came about and how he uses it to spread joy among his running community and beyond. Still can’t get your head around it? Follow Jeric at @coderunnerguy to discover the joy o…

1
I run for the challenge with freerunner Hazal Nehir 28:54

1+ y ago28:54

28:54

Jumping across rooftops is all in a day’s work for the world’s foremost female freerunner, yet Hazal Nehir claims running is a lot tougher. Known for her gravity-defying acrobatics and movie stunt work, she always squares up to a challenge. In this episode Ayo talks to her about managing her doubts, coming back to parkour after injury and why runni…

1
I run through the ups and downs with TikTokker Jimmy Jan 19:31

1+ y ago19:31

19:31

We all have good days, bad days, a rough patch or a few months of feeling on top of the world – perhaps no one more so than Australian TikTokker Jimmy Jan. In this episode, Jimmy speaks to Ayo about how running has helped him through the ups and downs of life. Suffering an accident in 2021 that paralysed him from the waist down, Jimmy shares what i…

1
I run for the inner buzz with Ironman triathlete Lucy Charles-Barclay 28:10

1+ y ago28:10

28:10

Ever had a natural buzz after really pushing yourself at something? Well that’s achievable no matter who you are according to this week’s guest, multiple Ironman champion Lucy Charles-Barclay. Lucy is a professional swimmer-turned-triathlete, so she knows first-hand the joys that adding running to your training regime can offer, and she’s here to s…

1
I run for simplicity with US Team Skipper Jimmy Spithill 23:36

1+ y ago23:36

23:36

It’s our first episode of season 2 and hosts Erin Azar and Ayo Akinwolere couldn’t be more excited about it. To mark this ceremonious occasion, Ayo chats with highly decorated yachtsman Jimmy Spithill. Jimmy has won world championships, been named World Sailor of the Year and currently leads the U.S. team on the global SailGP tour. Jimmy tells us a…

1
What to expect from Season 2 1:10

1+ y ago1:10

1:10

We’re back with Season 2! The Why I Run podcast from Red Bull celebrates the extraordinary and the everyday stories of running, to inspire you to pick up those running shoes and just get going! Runners of every skill level are welcome, from passionate regulars, to runners who struggle to get out the door – and everyone in between. We had some incre…

1
Bonus episode: Hear how the Wings for Life World Run 2022 went 23:10

2+ y ago23:10

23:10

Erin and Ayo, along with over 161,892 participants from 192 nations at runs in 165 countries around the globe, were part of the ninth annual edition of the Wings for Life World Run this May and together they raised 4.7 million euros for spinal cord research. They’re taking a moment to chat with each other about their individual runs, and to hear fr…

1
I run for those who can't with Olympic hurdler Colin Jackson and wheelchair tennis player Nico Langmann 38:26

2+ y ago38:26

38:26

It’s our last episode before the Wings for Life World Run on Sunday May 8! Erin and Ayo sit down for a round-table chat with international sports director and record-breaking Olympic hurdler Colin Jackson, and wheelchair tennis superstar Nico Langmann, to hear about what that idea of ‘running for those who can’t’ means to them both and to share som…

1
I run for fun with Wesley Butstraen 38:16

2+ y ago38:16

38:16

This week is all about putting the fun back into your run. Erin and Ayo speak to Wesley Butstraen. If you’ve ever encountered a big bearded man in a bright pink suit on a Wings for Life World Run, that’s Wesley, and it’s completely joy-inducing. We hear about how he started running for health reasons but found his mindset shifting as his running pr…

1
I run to connect with my environment with climber Sasha DiGiulian and runner Erik Ahlström 37:50

2+ y ago37:50

37:50

Climber Sasha DiGiulian and runner Erik Ahlström join hosts Erin and Ayo to explore the connection between running and nature. Sasha is a world champion professional rock climber from the USA, while Erik is the Swedish creator of ‘plogging’ – running and picking up litter. Find every episode on redbull.com/WhyIRun Want to run? Join the Why I Run Po…

1
I run to spend time with others with freeskier Kelly Sildaru and runner Adolfo Salgueiro 39:03

2+ y ago39:03

39:03

Freeskier Kelly Sildaru and hobby runner Adolfo Salgueiro chat with Erin Azar and Ayo Akinwolere about sharing the running experience with others. Adolfo talks about how his father’s running inspired him as a child. Adolfo Senior was running in Venezuela in the 70s, long before the trend of running evolved to what it is today – he was running marat…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Casual Climbers Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide