6 Outdoor Podcasts You Need in Your Life

If You Love the Outdoors, These Podcasts Are a Must-Listen

There’s no shortage of compelling podcasts out there right now, but sifting through all of the options and finding topics you’re interested in can be overwhelming. If you’re anything like us, though, there’s no better distraction than listening to stories about inspiring outdoor athletes, gripping adventures or important environmental and conservation topics. So whether you’re looking to zone out during a grueling gym session, or hoping to pass some time on a long road trip, we’ve helped you out and put together a collection of some of the best outdoor podcasts. We guarantee they’re worth the download.

1) The Dirtbag Diaries

Recommended episode: Testing the Waters

For over 15 years, The Dirtbag Diaries, created by Fitz Cahall, has been the go-to podcast for raw, authentic storytelling from the outdoor community. Featuring intimate interviews, short stories and first-person narratives with climbers, skiers, paddlers, and adventurers of all kinds, this podcast captures the highs, lows, and sometimes hilarious moments of life in the wild. Whether it’s a tale of a life-changing expedition, a reflection on the meaning of risk, or a deep dive into environmental activism, this popular podcast fuels the stoke for outdoor adventure.

2) Outside/In

Recommended episode: The Call of the Void

If you’re curious about the natural world and our relationship with it, Outside/In is the perfect podcast to dive into. Produced by New Hampshire Public Radio, this show explores fascinating and often unexpected stories about the environment, science, and outdoor culture. From deep dives into climate change and energy policy to quirky investigations into myths about nature, Outside/In blends expert interviews, investigative journalism, and engaging storytelling. You will see the world around you in a whole new way.

3) Outside Podcast

Recommended episode: Can Humans Outrun Antelope?

The Outside podcast brings Outside Magazine’s signature storytelling to life with gripping narratives and in-depth reporting on adventure, survival, and the science of human performance. With a variety of story formats from a diverse cast of talented journalists and storytellers, you’ll be hooked whether you’re interested in hearing about record-breaking feats, profiles of remarkable humans who have defied odds, conservation, or the latest research on athletic endurance. This Podcast explores the most compelling issues in the outdoor world today.

4) MeatEater

Recommended episode: #146-Bigfoot

All too often, hunters and environmentalists feel like they are enemies of one another, when in fact, they are often striving toward the same goal. This hunting-focused podcast is educational, as well as humorous, for meat eaters and vegans alike. It helps to gain a deeper perspective on environmental issues and conservation initiatives being discussed across the United States. Host Steven Rinella records interviews and viewpoints while traveling around the U.S. to share with his listeners.

5) Mountain & Prairie

Recommended episode: Camrin Dengel – Slow Living in the American West

Although heavily focused on the American West, this podcast has something to offer listeners from coast to coast. Ed Roberson, a long time conservationist, interviews individuals who have made an impact in the outdoor industry. Roberson highlights their educational and experiential background to give a deeper understanding as to how they got to where they are, and digs into how different influences in their lives have shaped their current roles. If you have dreamt about a career in conservation or environmental activism, the Mountain & Prairie podcast may help you realize that your dreams are within reach.

6) The River Radius Podcast

Recommended episode: The Emerald Mile: The Forest Behind the Story

Hosted by Sam Carter, The River Radius Podcast dives into the deep currents of river culture, conservation, and adventure. With a keen focus on the people, science, and stories that shape our waterways, Carter brings insightful conversations with guides, scientists, environmentalists, and paddlers from all walks of life. Whether you’re a hardcore rafter or just love the idea of wild rivers and the communities built around them, this podcast will expand your understanding of how rivers connect us all. Expect thought-provoking discussions on everything from dam removals to the intricacies of river rescue.

This post was originally published March 2019 and has since been updated.