In their latest episode, Jen and Dyana sit down with paraglider Bri Clark, who’s soaring to incredible heights around the world. The conversation dives into the thrilling world of paragliding, covering everything from training and gear to mechanics, costs, and tips for beginners. Bri also shares her experiences competing in hike-and-fly races and e…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana explore the fascinating science behind the mindset of thrill-seekers. They break down the four types of sensation seekers and discuss the psychology of chasing excitement and the exhilarating sensation of truly feeling alive. Jen shares a story about her "wild" honeymoon, while Dyana offers listeners a fun and thought…

In their latest episode, Jen and Dyana chat with filmmaker and podcast host Chris Ward, whose podcast Like a Bigfoot recently reached 400 episodes. The show fosters a community of adventurers who chase exploration in nature, push personal limits, and achieve feats beyond what they once thought possible. Ward’s documentary, A Long Way from Nowhere, …

In this episode, Jen and Dyana explore the transformative power of small, consistent habits in enhancing and enriching everyday life. Drawing inspiration from Atomic Habits by James Clear, they delve into strategies for establishing new routines, showing up daily, and embracing consistency over perfection. Dyana also shares a suspenseful story abou…

In this special storytime episode, Bush and Banter co-host Dyana Carmella dives into the theme of relinquishing control—particularly in moments when it might just save your life. She reads one of her favorite chapters from her book, A Walk Thru Neverland, which chronicles her 74-day adventure on the Pacific Northwest Trail, navigating the rugged la…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat with filmmaker and ultra-endurance cyclist Gregg Dunham. After rediscovering his love for cycling at the age of 30, Gregg has overcome the challenges of spina bifida to compete in some of the toughest bikepacking events across the western U.S., including the Colorado Trail Race and the Arizona Trail Race. He is a…

In their latest episode, Jen and Dyana sit down with solo traveler and marathon trainee Ashlyn Robinson. The conversation dives into the challenges of marathon training, the art of content creation in a world that rewards niches, and the importance of staying true to yourself while finding originality in your work. They also explore the experiences…

In this Outdoor Quickie, Jen and Dyana dive into the "Rule of Thirds," a concept shared by Olympian runner Alexi Pappas during an interview with Idea Generation. Pappas recalls advice from her coach during her training for the Rio Olympics. After a particularly tough day, when she felt like giving up, her coach reassured her, explaining that in the…

In this special episode, Jen and Dyana take a deep dive into the life of Retired U.S. Navy Captain Paul Pampuro who served as a submarine commanding officer of the USS Asheville (SSN 758). After 38 years of service, Paul transitioned to thru-hiking, completing iconic trails such as the Appalachian Trail, the Colorado Trail, Machu Picchu, and Kilima…

In this special episode, Jen and Dyana sit down with Allison Massa, a functional nutritionist, lifestyle practitioner, breathwork facilitator, private chef, and author of The Food Faerie Cookbook. With a BS in biochemistry and molecular biology, Allison is on a mission to educate listeners about the importance of healthy digestion, absorption, and …

PARENTAL ADVISORY - In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat with world traveler, photographer, and artist James Thompson, also known as PartyLikeJZL on social media. With his bold and provocative brand, JZL, James has garnered nearly a million followers across all platforms. He shares some of his wildest travel stories, including a visit to a Russian s…

In their latest episode, Jen and Dyana reminisce about Dyana’s time at a seven day all-women’s wilderness retreat in Montana, led by Callie Russell, an ancestral-living instructor and contestant on Season 7 of "Alone." Dyana shares the seven key lessons she took away from the retreat that she plans to integrate into her everyday life. Callie also j…

Grab a drink for this one because Jen and Dyana dive into some deep and thought-provoking discussion on how constant adventure can sometimes lead to disconnection. This episode is inspired by our recent two-time guest, Tyler 'MAC' Fox, who wrote an article on something he calls the interesting-weird divide. We explore what it's like to share with f…

In their latest Outdoor Quickie, Jen and Dyana dive into a compelling discussion about fear. They explore insights from a conversation between rock climbing legend Alex Honnold and High Performance hosts Jake Humphrey and Damian Hughes, focusing on the question, "When was the last time people faced actual fear?" Jen and Dyana discuss how adventurer…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat with long-distance cyclist (among other things) Tyler "Mac" Fox about his recent epic ride along The Tour Divide bike route, spanning from Banff, Alberta, Canada, to the U.S.-Mexico border in New Mexico. Fox completed the grueling 2,665-mile journey in 19 days, 17 hours, and 18 minutes, battling harsh weather, dr…

Dyana has completed the Colorado Trail and returned to Los Angeles, where she sits down with Jen to chat about the lessons she learned, the gear she’ll never hike without, and the unforgettable experience she had. Catch our Week 1 episode here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2033939/15443096 Catch our Week 2 episode here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/203…

Dyana has entered the San Juan Mountain Range on the Colorado Trail and sat down to chat with Jen about her ongoing backpacking adventure. Dyana talks about a wild hitch ride, entering the famous and majestic San Juan Mountains, learning how to fly fish, and trying to overcome the feeling of displacement. Dyana also talks about the future of her hi…

Jen (finally) sat down with Dyana and Jordan who are currently hiking on the Colorado Trail and got the inside scoop as to what they have been up to! There have been understandable challenges, both mental and physical, but also a whole lot of beauty and surprises along the way. Jen asks Dyana and Jordan questions YOU sent in for them, as well as Dy…

In this unique episode, Jennifer answers all of your burning questions that you asked them (Dy + Jen). There's a mix of adventure questions and some comedy, of course! Dyana is also thru-hiking the Colorado Trail so make sure to go give her some encouragement and stay tuned for our on trail episodes rolling out in the next few weeks! Follow Callie …

In this very special Outdoor Quickie, which happens to be the last installment of the Colorado Trail Prep series, Jen and Dyana discuss the power of prioritizing and the importance of readjusting your thoughts in order to reach goals. Dyana shares what she needed to prioritize in order to make thru-hiking the Colorado Trail a reality, as well as th…

In their latest episode, three months in the making, Jen and Dyana dive into an in-depth and informative discussion about their top picks for backpacking gear. From the big three (shelter, pack, and sleep system) to shoes, electronics, accessories, and clothes, the duo breaks down the must-have products that made the cut and they simply can't hike …

In the third installment of their Colorado Trail Prep series, Jen and Dyana chat with Aaron Owens Mayhew, a registered dietitian and ultralight long-distance backpacker who is the visionary behind Backcountry Foodie. With over 20 years of experience in both the backcountry and the field of nutrition, Aaron is passionate about creating ultralight, n…

In the second installment of their "Colorado Trail Prep" series, Jen and Dyana chat with firefighter, paramedic, and personal trainer Jordan Sessions. She sheds light on the physical training recommended for a grand adventure like a thru-hike. They also discuss handling mental challenges, adapting to the rhythm of nature, problem-solving, and deali…

In Part One of our Colorado Trail Prep Series, we chat with professional ultramarathoner, record breaker, and thru-hiker Tara Dower. Inspired by her Appalachian Trail thru-hike, she has dedicated herself to spending as much time in the wilderness as possible. On August 1, 2023, Tara broke the Colorado Trail women’s supported fastest known time (FKT…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana cover current headlining stories about Mount Everest, including new world records and the mountain's biggest mission of all. They also delve into the history that made this mountain legendary, including the first ascent back in the 1950s. Mentioned in the episode: Follow Kami Rita: https://www.instagram.com/kamiritash…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana discuss the recently published 2024 list of the world's most breathtaking hikes. They embark on a virtual journey, exploring the rugged peaks of Alaska's majestic mountains, the vast and mysterious deserts of Egypt, the lush and vibrant wetlands of Florida, and the dramatic cliffsides of Bhutan. The duo offers insight…

In this location spotlight, Jen interviews Dyana about her top ten places throughout California, featuring unique restaurants, hotels, and adventures. From the coastal town of Carpinteria to Northern California's Shasta County, and from the gold mining regions of Placer County to the Northern Sierra and back down south to the desert, Dyana highligh…

In this Outdoor Quickie, Jen and Dyana dive deep into the concept of Imposter Syndrome, a pervasive feeling of inadequacy or self-doubt despite evidence of success. Jen opens up about experiencing this sensation while out on the trail, while Dyana shares her own struggles with it in the workplace. Join them as they explore how Imposter Syndrome man…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat with Heli Ski Guide and Former Pararescue Specialist, Paul "Bear" Barendregt. After enlisting in the Air Force right out of high school, Bear later joined the Alaska Air National Guard in 2000 and has since emerged as one of the most distinguished and recognizable pararescuemen in Alaska's wilderness rescue commu…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana embark on a nostalgic journey, reminiscing about their most beloved adventure tales from both the screen and the pages. From classics like "The Goonies" and "Alice in Wonderland" to timeless favorites such as "Hook" and "The Wizard of Oz," the duo dives into the stories that ignited their sense of adventure as adults.…

Occasionally, hardworking individuals are blessed with the ultimate gift: time off. Whether it's just a day, a week, or even more, it's a precious opportunity. If you've been granted a week off and have a hankering for hiking, this episode is tailor-made for you. In our latest Outdoor Quickie, Jen shares her top three sections of the Pacific Crest …

In this episode Jen and Dyana chat with Ultra-Runner, Comedian, and Traveler Jeffrey Binney. His journey took a profound turn after the loss of his mother to heart disease. Determined to avoid a similar fate, he embarked on a transformative path, challenging himself by conquering one of the most grueling 100-mile ultramarathons. His inspiring exper…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana are joined by Danish traveler and adventurer, Thor Pedersen, renowned for his unparalleled achievement of visiting every single country in the world without the use of air travel. Thor embarked on this remarkable journey in 2013, dedicating 10 years to exploring 203 countries. Thor shares tales of love, resilience dur…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana introduce and discuss National Geographic’s 20 Best Adventures of 2024. From the awe-inspiring spectacle of bear watching in Alaska to the serene beauty of cruising down a river in Colombia, from the adrenaline rush of hiking a volcano in Panama to one of the ultimate tests of endurance—running an Olympic Marathon in …

In their first under 20-minute episode called an "Outdoor Quickie," Jen and Dyana delve into the exhilarating world of Fastest Known Times (FKTs), exploring what it takes to break world records in hiking. They uncover the allure for adventurous individuals who crave speed and aspire to set new standards in the outdoor space. Check out the FKT websi…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana discuss how influence shapes their goal-setting and achievement. They delve into the benefits of pursuing goals quietly and explore how this approach can be the most effective in turning dreams into reality. Mentioned in the episode is The Huberman Lab Podcast episode called "Goals Toolkit: How to Set & Achieve Your G…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana talk with Survival Specialist Jessie Krebs, who shares essential tips for staying alive in the backcountry, covering everything from signaling to self-protection. Krebs, one of the few S.E.R.E. (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) specialists who taught military members how to survive behind enemy lines, also a…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana talk with Felicity Aston, a British Polar Explorer, Author, Climate Scientist, and Speaker. In 2012, she achieved the remarkable feat of being the first woman to ski solo across Antarctica, covering a distance of 1,084 miles. The expedition spanned 59 days, culminating in her securing a well-deserved place in the Guin…

In this location spotlight, Jen and Dyana take listeners to the magical land of New Zealand, where they chat with Trail Advocate KJ Jennings. They discuss bungee jumping, the Te Araroa Trail, The All Blacks, and KJ’s work in connecting people in the outdoor community through trails. At the end of the episode, Jen and Dyana also share their favorite…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat with Author and Founder Jessica Chenard, delving into her debut memoir, "Her Hike." The discussion spans across the realms of writing, hiking, healing, and the journey of discovering purpose amidst the challenges of grief. Jessica shares her journey of healing after her brother's tragic death, rediscovering a lov…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat with journalist/author James Edward Mills. He is the author of the book "The Adventure Gap: Changing the Face of the Outdoors" which chronicles the first all-African American summit attempt on Denali, the highest point in North America. He is a contributor to National Geographic Magazine, a Fellow of the Mountain…

In this episode, the hosts of Bush and Banter, Jennifer and Dyana, dive deep into the intriguing subject of failure. The duo candidly share their personal stories of failure and discuss how the biggest downfalls can remarkably shape one's life for the better. Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter…

In this episode, Jen and Dyana chat with Pro Highliner Faith Dickey who is one of the greatest in the sport. Highlining is similar to walking a tightrope, yet Dickey walks across a rope sprawled out between two canyons with a drop below that will make anyone’s jaw (literally) drop. In 2012, Faith broke the record for the longest free solo, that's h…

In the first episode of the fourth season of 'Bush and Banter,' Jen and Dyana chat with Travel Journalist Jeff Jenkins, whose new show on Nat Geo, 'Never Say Never with Jeff Jenkins,' has viewers questioning their own limitations. Jenkins travels the world, testing the limits of his physical abilities. Throughout his global odyssey, Jeff makes deep…

In this episode, Dyana chats with fellow author and adventurer Christine Reed, whose debut memoir, "Alone in Wonderland," chronicles her hiking adventure along the Wonderland Trail and her quest for independence through solo exploration of nature. Reed discovered long-distance backpacking while surfing the internet at work one day and decided to at…

Jen and Dyana kick off their new location spotlight series with a place near and dear to their hearts: Lake Tahoe. The two discuss their thru-hike of the Tahoe Rim Trail, as well as list off their favorite places around the lake to explore, dine, and hang out. Featured in the episode is a $19 million dollar estate, a "wet woody," and Jen giving lis…

In this special, surprise one-year anniversary episode, Jen and Dyana reminisce about the last year and what they have learned. The duo also discuss their hopes and dreams for the future of Bush and Banter, including a bar and perhaps an astronaut. These girls can dream. A special thank you to all the listeners for your support. Here's to the next …

DISCLAIMER: This episode was recorded on June 22nd, prior to the SAG Strike. In this episode, Jen and Dyana talk with Champion Swimmer, Author, Public Speaker, and National Icon, Diana Nyad. On September 2, 2013, at the age of sixty-four, Diana Nyad became the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without the aid of a shark cage, swimming 111 m…

Josh, an avid off-roader and adventure photographer, has embarked on journeys across the globe and has inspired others to embrace their own wild adventures. In this episode, we delve into his profound passion for off-roading, his enchantment with backcountry camping with his family of four, his admirable efforts in cultivating an appreciation for t…

In this special episode, hosts Jennifer Mabus and Dyana Carmella of Bush and Banter discuss the sources and significance of inspiration in their lives, exploring where and from whom they draw inspiration. Where to find and support Bush & Banter: Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com J…