Talking NorCal

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The Talking NorCal Podcast is the official podcast of Active NorCal. Hosts Zach and Brien O'Brien will take you through the stories of the week in Northern California as well as insightful interviews with the leading outdoor enthusiasts and tell stories of their adventures in NorCal.

Active NorCal


    • Feb 6, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • every other week NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 12m AVG DURATION
    • 64 EPISODES

    4.9 from 15 ratings Listeners of Talking NorCal that love the show mention: norcal, love.



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    Latest episodes from Talking NorCal

    California Water Wars, Snowpack Dwindles, & Revolutionizing Lake Tahoe Transportation w/Ryan Meinzer

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2025 83:56


    Active NorCal's Zach O'Brien and Brien O'Brien (BOB) dive deep on the California water wars, including President Trump's recent acts, Gavin Newsom's executive order, Lake Oroville using its spillway, and farmers versus environmentalists.Then, they break down the news of the week including the trail down to Burney Falls reopening, Homewood Mountain Resort's plan to reopen for skiing, California snowpack dwindling after dry January, and divers removing 1,500 pounds of trash out of Donner Lake.Finally, Zach sits down with Ryan Meinzer from FlyTahoe to talk about plans to bring an electric flying ferry to Lake Tahoe. They discuss the environmental implications, convenience for visitors and residents of Tahoe, and challenges in bringing the revolutionary transportation to the U.S. for the first time.

    High Water Levels, Ranchers Leaving Point Reyes, & Terrible Wildfire Politicization/Misinformation

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2025 70:55


    Active NorCal's Zach O'Brien and Brien O'Brien (BOB) break down the recent storms in Northern California, including the snowpack sitting at 108% of historical average, Shasta Lake seeing its highest January water levels in 15 years, and the 206 mph winds at Kirkwood Mountain Resort.Then, they get into the news of the week including the brand-new National Monument near Mount Shasta, the ranchers leaving the Point Reyes National Seashore, 6,000 salmon returning to the free-flowing Klamath River, a new bill that could have San Francisco paying a lot more for Hetch Hetchy water, and the X Games coming to NorCal.Finally, Zach and Bob discuss the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, including the terrible wildfire politicization, misinformation, and the media's coverage of celebrities.

    Bidwell Mansion Burns, Earthquakes in NorCal, and Climbing Mount Shasta w/ Chris Carr

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 20, 2024 85:53


    Active NorCal's Zach O'Brien and Brien O'Brien (BOB) break down the wet start to the winter in Northern California, including the most recent storms bringing lots of snow to the mountains and the tornado that ravaged the Bay Area.Then, they discuss the news of the week including the burning of the historic Bidwell Mansion in Chico, Mt. Shasta Ski Park unveiling its new 20-foot statue of the Virgin Mary, fence removal in Point Reyes allowing elk to roam free, a proposed electric ferry on Lake Tahoe, and the star-studded concert series coming to the Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena.Next, Zach sits down with Chris Carr from the Shasta Mountain Guides to discuss the start to the winter season on Mount Shasta, what people can expect when climbing the mountain, and the best ways to go backcountry skiing in the area.Finally, Zach and Bob talk about the recent earthquake activity in NorCal and why all locals should know about the Cascadia Subduction Zone.

    Movie Review: Lady Bird is a Beautiful Love Letter to Sacramento

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2024 46:09


    We're back with another movie review! This time, Active NorCal's Zach O'Brien and Brien O'brien review the award-winning film Lady Bird, which is a beautiful "love letter" to Sacramento. They talk about how the movie takes place in Sacramento, as well as the many obvious filming locations around the city. They also discuss their many connections to the film, including their Catholic upbringing, high school life with no cell phones, and the experience of growing up in Northern California.

    Blizzard Slams NorCal, Controversial Owl Hunting, New Wolf Packs, and Proof of Lemurians?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2024 64:32


    Active NorCal's Zach O'Brien and Brien O'Brien (BOB) break down the massive storms that slammed Northern California recently, including the early opening of ski resorts and significant rise of lakes. They also discuss the announcement of new wolf packs in NorCal, including the wolves found in Lassen Volcanic National Park, before debating the alien testimony in Congress and how it changes our outlook on Lemurians.Then, they discuss the NorCal Notes of the week, including the vote on Palisades Tahoe expansion, Coho salmon returning to the Upper Klamath Basin, the controversial hunt of barred owls, and the successful removal of AT&T's cables out of Lake Tahoe.Finally, they end the podcast by discussing fun things they did in Sacramento last week, before debating which movie filmed in NorCal they should review next.

    NorCal Politics, Monster Salmon, and a Deep Dive on Wolves w/Amaroq Weiss

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2024 86:29


    Active NorCal's Zach O'Brien and Brien O'Brien (BOB) discuss the results of last week's ballots and their impact on Northern California, including California's $10 billion water/fire measure, South Lake Tahoe's proposed vacation home tax, and San Francisco's proposal to turn the Great Highway into a giant park.Then, they discuss the news of the week including the iconic Point Reyes Shipwreck deteriorating rapidly, a 47-pound Chinook salmon caught on the Smith River, a Sonoma hotel named the best in the world, and the upcoming Leonids meteor shower.Next, Zach sits down with Amaroq Weiss, Senior Wolf Advocate at the Center for Biological Diversity, to do a deep dive on wolves, including the reason behind their population growth in California, and what the future holds for wolf packs in the region.Finally, Zach and Bob break down the controversial proposal to bring a major development to Palisades Tahoe and Olympic Valley, including its projected environmental impact.

    Winter is Here, Shasta Lake Houseboat Giveaway, & Keeping Tahoe Blue w/Hailey Hawkins

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2024 63:03


    On a brand-new episode of the Talking NorCal Podcast, Zach and Bob outline their biggest giveaway yet - a $3,000 houseboat rental on Shasta Lake. Then, they discuss the snowfall across Northern California, along with invasive mussels found in California, South Lake Tahoe's proposed vacation home tax, a fisherman crashing his helicopter on the Carson River, Burney Falls extended trail closure, and a crackdown on cannabis in California State Parks. Finally, they speak with Hailey Hawkins about The League to Save Lake Tahoe and the best ways to Keep Tahoe Blue.

    The Weirdest Movie Ever Made? Our Review of Sasquatch Sunset Filmed in NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2024 53:34


    We're back with another movie review! This time, Zach and Bob discuss the highly-anticipated indie film Sasquatch Sunset, starring Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Keough and filmed entirely in Northern California. They talk about the history of Bigfoot in NorCal, the production of the film, the animals from Turtle Bay, and finally, they give their review of the movie.

    Rare Comet Over NorCal, Wolves Near Tahoe, and Photographing the Northern Lights with Jake Edwards

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2024 63:58


    On a brand-new episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob begin by discussing the recent Northern Lights over NorCal. Then, they get into the news of the week including the rare comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, wolf sightings near Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park lifting reservations for the rest of 2024, and a popular Tahoe ski resort not opening this winter.The, Zach sits down with Jake Edwards (@scenescapery) to discuss his photography in Northern California, shooting the Northern Lights in 2024, living in Lake Almanor, and his long battle with cancer.

    Salmon Return to the Klamath, Deadly Botulism Outbreak, and a Lemurian Surprise

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2024 46:40


    On a brand-new episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob begin with the response to the return of the podcast and Bob talks about his weekend trip to a punk rock show. Then, they discuss the news of the week including a NorCal lake suffering deadly botulism outbreak, another California town voting on changing its name, Sites Reservoir clearing a major legal hurdle, a Lodi skydiving instructor going to prison, and the first salmon returning to the dam-free Klamath River. Finally, Bob surprises Zach with a Lemurian gift, and they preview the upcoming Issue #15 of the Active NorCal Magazine.

    We're Back! Wolf Population Explodes, Leo's New NorCal Thriller, and is the Lemurian Guy Full of It?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2024 69:23


    We're back! On a brand-new episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob give life updates and talk about the relaunch of the Active NorCal Magazine. Then, they get into the the news of the week including the Park Fire destroying a historic lookout, wolf populations exploding in NorCal, Leo Dicaprio's new movie filmed in NorCal, and the removal of AT&T's cables in Lake Tahoe. Then, they discuss the top news of 2024 including the year of the Northern Lights, Klamath River dam removal, California's first documented fatal bear attack, and the controversial Rainbow Family gathering.Finally, Zach reads an email he received claiming the man who said he visited the Lemurian city in Mount Shasta is full of it, and he brought receipts.

    40th Anniversary of the Alpine Meadows Avalanche w/Jared Drake, Steven Siig & Chip O'Brien

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2022 75:01


    On this episode of Talking NorCal, we dive deep into the deadly avalanche of March 31, 1982 at Alpine Meadows that killed 7 people. Zach is joined by filmmakers Jared Drake and Steven Siig to discuss their new documentary 'Buried: The 1982 Alpine Meadows Avalanche' where they talk about the event, creating the award-winning film and debuting it to the community who was impacted by the tragedy (7:40). Then, Zach is joined by Chip O'Brien for a literary review of 'Wall of White,' the 2009 book by Jennifer Woodlief going in-depth into the tragedy and telling the human stories behind the avalanche (28:27).

    Goodbye Bob, Historic DEEPcember & Top Active NorCal Stories of 2021

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2022 73:03


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob discuss the incredible numbers behind the DEEPcember snowstorms in Northern California (1:53). Then, we break down the Top 10 Active NorCal Stories from 2021 (25:23). Finally, we say goodbye to Bob as the producer and co-host of Talking NorCal (57:35).

    Historic Snowfall, NorCal Christmas Wishes & the Story of Tahoe Blue Vodka w/Matt Levitt

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2021 74:39


    On this edition of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob break down the numbers from the most recent storm and outline the historic precipitation so far in Northern California (1:35). Then, they get into the news of the week including the father and son arrested for starting the Caldor Fire, the brand-new documentary telling the story of the deadly 1982 avalanche at Alpine Meadows, and the final update from investigators on the mysterious death of the family hiking in California (11:14). Then, they sit down with Matt Levitt to learn the story about Tahoe Blue Vodka and their commitment to philanthropy in the Tahoe Basin (35:39). Finally, Zach and Bob talk about their local Christmas wish list this year (1:04:30).

    Controversial Cannabis Tax, Scary Bear Attack & Cleaning Up Lake Tahoe w/Colin West | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2021 81:57


    On this episode of Talking Zach and Bob break down the news of the week including California DWR announcing their water allocations in anticipation of extreme drought, the trailblazing gray wolf found dead in California, the details of a woman's near-deadly bear attack in Tahoe, the NorCal Christmas tree at the U.S. Capitol and cannabis farmers rallying against increasing state taxes (6:07). Then, they sit down with the Founder and Executive Director of Clean Up the Lake Colin West, who discusses removing 18,000 pounds of garbage from Lake Tahoe and stories from underwater on Big Blue (40:22). Finally, Zach and Bob discuss their recent experience at the Sacramento Kings game (1:12:15).

    Giant Sequoias Decimated, NorCal Breweries Win Big and Photographing the Lassen Pack w/ Randy Robbins

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2021 67:33


    On this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob break down the news of the week including 20 percent of the world's giant sequoias burned in NorCal fires, a college teacher charged with starting fires around the Dixie Fire, E. coli testing results on the American River, Chinook salmon attempting to spawn in a graffiti filled channel in the Bay Area and the upcoming La Nina winter. Then, they sit down with Randy Robbins to discuss his groundbreaking photography of the Lassen Pack. Finally, they talk about the NorCal breweries who won big at the Great American Beer Festival and what's on the menu for Thanksgiving dinner.

    The Quintessential Tahoe Film? Reviewing the Star-Studded Smokin' Aces

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2021 49:03


    On this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob review the quintessential Tahoe film - Smokin' Aces - starring Ryan Reynolds, Ray Liotta, Jeremy Piven, Andy Garcia, Ben Affleck, Alicia Keys and Common.

    Historic Atmospheric River, Active NorCal Milestones and 'Van Life' Stories with Adam Marland

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2021 89:49


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob discuss the historic late-October storm that slammed Northern California including its category 5 designation, the astounding increase in snowpack and water levels, 141-year rain record broken and the massive landslide on Highway 70 (1:51). They finish up the news of the week by discussing the cause of the tragic and odd hiking death of a family in the Sierra (28:01). Then, they sat down with Chief Exploration Officer of Michelob Ultra Adam Marland who discusses how he won the contest, the truth about 'Van Life' and his future journey as an outdoor photographer and blogger (33:25). Finally, Zach and Bob discuss recent milestones for Active NorCal (1:20:37).Follow Adam Marland's Journey at https://www.wedreamoftravel.com/

    Storms End Drought, Famous Bear Killed, and the Road to the Olympics with Robby Burns

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2021 84:19


    On a brand-new episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob discuss the sudden change in weather and potential end of the drought in Northern California (2:01). Then, they break down the news of the week including the viral search for a woman in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Lake Tahoe dropping below its natural rim, 'Kings Beach Bear' being shot and killed at a campground, the historic train tunnel now fully exposed on Shasta Lake, the end of the 212-day dry streak in Sacramento and Arcata decriminalizing magic mushrooms (4:43). Then, they sit down with Robby Burns to discuss his life as a professional snowboarder, traveling the world with the U.S. snowboard team, growing up in Mount Shasta and his upcoming journey to qualify for the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing (40:00). Finally, Bob asks Zach about his controversy with the California Wolf Watch (1:13:45).

    Palisades Tahoe, Shasta's Sunken Ship, and a Forest Management/Climate Change Discussion with Joanna Nelson

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2021 81:22


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal Podcast, Zach and Bob discuss the news of the week including S*** Valley changing its name, the proposed name change to Patrick's Point, KNP Complex Fire in Sequoia National Park, the mysterious sunken boat in Shasta Lake, First snow of the season on Mt. Shasta, a new state-owned outdoor utopia and a the opening of the elevated boardwalk in the Jedediah Smith Redwoods (3:35). Finally, Zach sits down with Joanna Nelson from the Save the Redwoods League to discuss the unique forests of Northern California and how to manage them during our current state of climate disruption (43:27).

    Creating Cannabis Experiences with Amy O'Connor of Humboldt Social. Plus, NorCal Has a New Wolf Pack

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2021 65:30


    On this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob discuss the news of the week including Northern California's newest wolf pack, Kevin Spacey filming in Dunsmuir, the Antelope Fire moves into Lava Beds National Monument and the most recent update from the tule elk controversy in Point Reyes (2:27). Then, they sit down with Amy O'Connor of Humboldt Social to discuss cannabis experiences in NorCal,  how they can keep the growing legal market local and the best places to visit on the North Coast (23:30).

    How Firefighters Saved Tahoe and Dixie Burns Lassen. Plus, Zach's COVID Experience.

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2021 55:24


    On a brand new episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob discuss Zach's experience with COVID before breaking down all of the wildfire news in Northern California. Finally, they discuss how low water levels are showing historic structures on Shasta Lake and talk about Mount Shasta's historic lack of snow.

    State of NorCal Salmon w/Mike Rasmussen. Plus: Man Visits Lemurians in Mt. Shasta?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2021 86:20


    On this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob breakdown the news of the week including the McCloud Falls campground being closed due to bear activity, the brand-new art installation coming to the Sacramento River Trail, experienced cliff jumper dying on Lake Britton and the cannabis controversies in Siskiyou County (2:36). Then, they sit down with Mike Rasmussen to discuss the current state of salmon in Northern California (24:53). Finally, they discuss the story of the man who claims to have recently visited the Lemurian city of Telos in Mount Shasta (1:10:46).

    Cannabis Tourism, Carr Fire Anniversary & NorCal Wildlife Photography w/Randy Robbins

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2021 83:44


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob breakdown the news of the week including the closures in Lassen Volcanic National Park due to the Dixie Fire, harmful algae blooms in NorCal rivers, Klamath salmon listed as an endangered species and a new cannabis themed hotel coming to Humboldt (2:41). Then, they sit down with wildlife photographer Randy Robbins to discuss all the animals he sees on his backyard cameras, what it takes to get the perfect photo in the wilderness and his dream of photographing the Lassen Pack (23:14). Finally, Zach and Bob remember the Carr Fire on its three year anniversary (1:07:55).

    NorCal Drought Diaries: Salmon Troubles, Historic Fire Season and Viral Videos

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2021 54:44


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob discuss all the recent news in Northern California. They begin by discussing Bob's weekly appearance on the local Sacramento news along with recent viral videos from Active NorCal. Then, they get into the news of the week including the car flying 50 feet into the air near Yuba City, the Tesla pulled out of the ocean in Humboldt, the viral video showing a lightning strike starting a fire in the Sierra and NorCal's first all-cannabis farmer's market (6:18). Then, they breakdown how the drought is impacting NorCal's salmon runs including the how officials believe all the juvenile salmon could die this season, the moving of more than a million salmon on the Klamath River and the start of salmon fishing season on the Sacramento River (27:30). Finally, they reflect on the already historic wildfire season (43:25).

    Tahoe Bear Shooting, NorCal Wildfires & Life as a Wild Food Chef w/Hank Shaw

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2021 76:46


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob discuss the already unprecedented wildfire season in Northern California (2:02). Then, they break down the news of the week including a Lake Tahoe tourist shooting a bear, the reopening of a Big Sur trail after a 13-year closure, a brand new wolfpack in Plumas County and the longest slackline in California's history (13:36). Finally, they sit down with Hank Shaw to discuss his life as a wild  food chef in NorCal, his experiences with the national media and his book Hook, Line, and Supper (41:58).

    The Great Outdoors - NorCal's Quintessential Family Summer Film

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2021 53:45


    In this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob review The Great Outdoors, the 1988 family summer film featuring Dan Aykroyd and John Candy - filmed almost entirely in Northern California.

    California's Open, Bizarre Lassen Legends & Experiential Education with California Adventure Academy

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2021 102:59


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob celebrate the official reopening of California. Then, they discuss the news of the week including the airplane found at the bottom of Folsom Lake, drunk driver getting car stuck at the bottom of Crowley Lake, Karuk Tribe declaring a climate emergency on the Klamath River basin and Point Reyes installing water troughs for thirsty tule elk. Then, they talk with Ryan Spitz and Aaron Hayes about the California Adventure Academy, a brand-new school in Redding teaching through outdoor adventure. Finally, Zach and Bob break down some newly discovered legends of Lassen Volcanic National Park.

    Extreme Drought, New NorCal Trails & Surprise Chicken Sandwich Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 9, 2021 57:34


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob go through the news of the week including the drought reaching extreme levels, lyme-carrying ticks found on NorCal beaches, 10 percent of the world's redwoods burned, sneaker waves on the rise, new trails and how Native Americans tried to help the Donner Party. Then, Zach surprises Bob with the best chicken sandwich in Sacramento for a live food review.

    The Top 10 Legends of Northern California

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2021 91:24


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob go through the 10 greatest legends of Northern California including the real life Zorro (5:07), the curse of Tenaya Canyon (11:28), the haunted ghost town of Bodie (18:26), frozen bodies at the bottom of Lake Tahoe (25:01), Saint Germain on Mount Shasta (32:16), JFK and Marilyn Monroe rendezvous in NorCal (38:12), buried treasure from the Gold Rush (46:49), Tahoe Tessie (55:34), Lemurians in Mount Shasta (1:06:04) and the many sightings of Bigfoot (1:17:40).

    Historic Fossil Discovery, Trinity Owl Battle & Best Places to Fish in NorCal w/Chip O'Brien

    Play Episode Listen Later May 26, 2021 93:05


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob go through the news of the week including the massive fossil discovery in the Sierra Nevada, the battle over the spotted owl in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Crystal Geyser backing out of Mount Shasta, "Vampire Fish" on the American River and a hidden bunker found in the burnt area of Big Basin Redwoods (10:48). Finally, they sit down with fly fishing author (and father) Chip O'Brien to discuss safe catch and release practices, fishing in the drought, the best places to fish during the summer and the dumbest things he's done in NorCal (38:32).

    Redwood Sky Walk, Drought Factors & 5-Year-Old Pro Snowboarder Leland the Falcon

    Play Episode Listen Later May 5, 2021 63:04


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob talk about their recent foodie experiences in the Sacramento area (2:57). Then, they go through the news of the week including the opening of the brand-new Redwood Sky Walk in Eureka, how a new fire started in the empty Big Basin Redwoods, a new pledge for visitors of Lake Tahoe, DWR cancelling their snow survey due to lack of snow and the wildflower super bloom at a nearly-empty Folsom Lake (11:36). Finally, they sit down with Chuck and Leland Vogt to discuss being a professional snowboard at the age of 5, starting Tahoe Longboards and the culture behind the skate and snowboard scene in Northern California (32:51).

    400-Mile Kayak Journey w/Sac Source to Sea. Plus: Bob's NorCal Rain Dance Songs

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2021 81:15


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach talks about his trip north where he hiked up Castle Crags, biked the Lake Siskiyou Loop, golfed at the Mt. Shasta Resort and caught rainbow trout in Clear Creek (2:34). Then, Bob surprises Zach with a few songs meant to inspire rain in Northern California (16:00). Then they break down the news of the week, including the controversial plan to drop poison on the Farallon Islands, another death at the Lodi Skydiving Center, more dead whales washing ashore near the San Francisco Bay and a Sacramento trail being named one of the top in America (22:36). Finally, they sit down with Alyssa Winkelman and Ari Kosel to discuss their incredible journey kayaking from Mt. Shasta to the San Francisco Bay on the Sacramento River (37:55).

    Cannabis, Bigfoot & Murder in NorCal: Diving Deep on Hulu's 'Sasquatch'

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2021 56:58


    Did Bigfoot murder three pot farmers in Northern California's Emerald Triangle in 1993? That's the topic of Hulu's brand-new true crime docuseries 'Sasquatch'. Zach and Bob dive deep with a special live 4/20 show.

    Lost Sierra Trail, Scary 2021 Fire Season and Outdoor Stories with Derek Wichmann | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2021 92:54


    In this week's episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob discuss the news of the week including the brand-new 300-mile Lost Sierra Trail, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows' new gondola, the third driest year on record for California, CalFire beefing up their crews early for the 2021 fire season and the trio of women who completed the kayak journey from Mount Shasta to the San Francisco Bay (6:56). Then, they sit down with Derek Wichmann in studio to discuss his favorite destinations in NorCal, local hunting, spear fishing off the California coast and snowshoeing to Lake Aloha (39:21).

    Discussing the Humboldt Redwoods with 'Griff' the Viral Dancing Park Ranger | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2021 88:27


    In this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob discuss the news of the week including the GoFundMe raising money for the children whose parents died by a falling redwood, 152 Tule elk died in Point Reyes in 2020, bear with neurological disorders turning up in NorCal, the experimental release of Chinook salmon, low water may restrict boating at Folsom Lake this year and a hiker discovering a tree growing over a trail in the Redwoods National Park (5:40). Then, they are joined by John 'Griff' Griffith to discuss his viral dancing videos, his show 'Wild Jobs' on Animal Planet and working in the Humboldt redwoods during the pandemic (39:34).

    Beer Park, Hulu's Bigfoot Docuseries and Jumping Off Burney Falls with Brandon Beck | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2021 82:50


    In this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob discuss the news of the week including the massive lawsuit won against the Lodi Sydiving Center, Anderson Valley Brewing Company's new "Beer Park," the abalone fishing ban extending through 2026, the highest elevation composting toilet in the world on Mt. Shasta, Hulu's new true crime docuseries on Bigfoot in the Emerald Triangle and judging the 2021 NorCal Cannabis Cup (4:48). Then, they sit down with Brandon Beck to talk about his roots in NorCal, skiing Squaw Valley and his crazy story about jumping off Burney Falls (44:00).

    We're Back! Active NorCal in National Geographic, Local Heroes and Top Stories

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2021 74:49


    The Talking NorCal Podcast is back! In this episode, Zach and Bob discuss the National Geographic article on Northern California waterfalls, featuring Active NorCal (3:10). Then, they discuss the top news of the month including a tech billionaire losing $128 on a Tahoe cabin, the wolf that made the astounding trek to Yosemite, a brand-new Crappie record on Clear Lake, the E. Coli problem in Point Reyes, the 2021 Yosemite Firefall, a potential drought for California and skiing Half Dome (10:53). Finally, they highlight two heroes of Northern California during the pandemic (59:40).

    26. Normalcy in NorCal, Trinity River Rafting & Nile Zacherle from Mad Fritz | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2020 80:53


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob discuss the Northern California news of the week, including the 5-year-old twins that summited Mt. Shasta, the Tule Elk controversy in Point Reyes, Tahoe's "Covid Island" and the rebound of Whiskeytown's WES Camp, which includes a summer (2:08). Then, Bob sits down with Nile Zacherle to discuss his journey to start the Mad Fritz brewery in Saint Helena (42:29). Finally, Zach and Bob are excited to bring back "Adventures in NorCal" with their whitewater rafting trip down the Trinity River (1:07:22).

    25. Historic Wildfires Slam NorCal, Plus Sac River Salmon Runs w/Chip O'Brien | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2020 73:09


    Active NorCal's Zach O'Brien and Brien O'Brien break down the historic wildfires blazing across Northern California, including how fire season has changed dramatically over the past 3 years (2:37). Then, they sit down with Chip O'Brien to discuss the salmon runs on the Sacramento River, including the 85-pound Chinook salmon found on Battle Creek and the importance of the Coleman Fish Hatchery (25:06). Finally, Zach catches up with Marcus Duvoisin to discuss his summer guided trips with Ooowee Adventures and their upcoming Mega Adventure Weekend in Smith Rock State Park (56:43).

    24. Lightning & Wildfire Strikes NorCal. Plus Epic Stories w/Shon Northam

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2020 67:08


    In this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob discuss the craziness surrounding the lightning and wildfires in Northern California (2:07). Then they get into the news of the week including Netflix naming Weed, California one of the funniest towns in America, trails staying closed in Whiskeytown for another 3 years, a drone found at the bottom of the American River revealing a crazy 100-foot bridge jump and Rob Lowe searching for Bigfoot in the NorCal wilderness (12:46). Finally, they hop on the line with Shon Northam, who went viral for his kayaking video off Lower McCloud Falls, to have a raucous conversation about his adventures and experiences in NorCal (35:39).

    23. Chasing 'Fastest Known Times' in NorCal w/Jason Hardrath | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2020 82:05


    In this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob discuss the signing of the Great American Outdoors Act, including President Trump's pronunciation of "Yosemite" (4:33). Then, they break down the news of the week including the 13-year-old who swam across Lake Tahoe, the first look at the eight new pups of the Lassen Pack, glow-in-the-dark waves in Santa Cruz and bears taking over a PGA Tour event in Tahoe (18:10). Finally, they sit down with outdoor athlete Jason Hardrath to discuss his life chasing "Fastest Known Times," creating new challenges in the outdoors and guiding on Mount Shasta (38:05).

    22. The Forgotten Chris Farley Movie Filmed in Northern California | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2020 61:17


    On this NorCal Feature Film episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob break down Almost Heroes, starring Chris Farley in his final starring role along with Matthew Perry in a historical comedy set in the late-1700's. The film, which was maligned by critics and flopped at the box office, was filmed almost entirely in Northern California and includes scenery of some of the area's most popular outdoor destinations.

    21. A Frantic Fourth of July Weekend in Northern California | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2020 58:01


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob discuss the busy Fourth of July weekend throughout Northern California and discuss the tragic story of the boy who survived 30 hours in the wilderness after his father was shot near Downieville (2:44). Then, they discuss the new of the week including the Lassen Pack adding new pups, the man who summited and descended Mt. Shasta in just 5 hours, a deadly flying SUP board in Tahoe, the mountain lion who wreaked havoc in San Francisco found dead, smokejumpers landing in a large cannabis grow in Trinity County, the Fountain of Youth deep in the Sierra Nevada and a Tahoe bear who broke into 6 cars in one neighborhood in one day (15:35). Finally, they outline their upcoming plans in the outdoors of NorCal (51:25).

    20. Fire Season Meets Covid-19. Plus Ooowee Adventures w/Marcus Duvoisin | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2020 79:09


    On this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob discuss the beginning of fire season in Northern California and give an update on Covid-19 in the area (1:56). Then, they discuss the news of the week including Castle Crags reopening, the otter attack in Lassen's Manzanita Lake, a scuba diver finding a $17,000 ring in the Sacramento River and a group of tech entrepreneurs preserving sections of the NorCal wilderness (15:16). Finally, they sit down with Marcus Duvoisin of OooWeee Adventures to discuss his love of rock climbing and inspiring youth to get outdoors through his guided tours in NorCal (32:47).

    19. NorCal Feature Film - E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2020 59:06


    On this NorCal Feature Film episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob break down a blockbuster movie that was not only filmed in Northern California, but also takes place in the area - E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Follow along as they break down the ins-and-outs of this classic film, including where exactly it takes place in NorCal, the legacy of Redding native Kathleen Kennedy and some fun facts you probably didn't know.

    18. Addressing NorCal's Controversial Names, Covid Closures and Visiting Bidwell Park | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2020 72:35


    On this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob discuss the controversy surrounding names and monuments in Northern California, including Fort Bragg, Squaw Valley and Christopher Columbus (2:24). Then, they get into the news of the week including Yosemite closing campgrounds, Lassen completely reopening, a mountain lion wreaking havoc in San Francisco, a monster mackinaw on Donner Lake, blue whales near the Farallon Islands, a high school graduation atop Sierra-at-Tahoe and the sunflower fields blooming in NorCal (32:20). Finally, they highlight their trip to Bidwell Park in Chico (59:50).

    17. Should We Change NorCal Names? Plus 'Rebuilding Paradise' Review | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2020 80:08


    On this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob begin by discussing the controversy surrounding the proposed name changes and statue removals throughout Northern California (1:46). Then they get into the news of the week including new campsite openings in NorCal, Tahoe's water clarity decreasing, fishermen catching "Lightning trout," California creating an Office of Outdoor Recreation and a proposed fishing closure on Putah Creek (19:37). Finally, they discuss the online premiere of Ron Howard's Camp Fire documentary "Rebuilding Paradise." (56:00)

    16. Talking Local Craft Beer w/Anderson Valley Brewing's Kevin McGee | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2020 76:48


    On this episode of Talking NorCal, Zach and Bob discuss their new video podcast studio studio and the birth of "Cliff Bar Bob" (1:45). Then, they get into the news of the week including Yosemite's opening this week, California's quiet reopening of most State Parks, a family of coyotes living in Midtown Sacramento, disgusting levels of E. Coli on the American River and the spawning of winter Chinook salmon on the Sacramento River (9:06). Finally, they sit down with Kevin McGee, the brand-new owner of Anderson Valley Brewing Co., to talk about his life as an attorney, why he bought the brewery, the Legendary Boonville Beer Festival and why it's important to support local craft beer (35:13).

    california yosemite state parks norcal chinook coli american rivers sacramento river kevin mcgee local craft beer anderson valley brewing midtown sacramento anderson valley brewing co
    15. Protests Hit NorCal. Plus Truckee Fishing w/Matt Heron | Talking NorCal Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2020 77:46


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal podcast, Zach and Bob discuss the damage done by the looters during the George Floyd protests in NorCal (2:37). Then they discuss the news of the week including a near record rainbow trout on the Feather River, the late-May thunderstorm, the opening of Lassen Volcanic National Park and Point Reyes National Seashore and another stocking of Lahontan cutthroat trout in Lake Tahoe (11:47). Then Zach sits down with Matt Heron to talk about life as a fishing guide, his private water school in Tahoe and diving into the Truckee River to catch a massive brown trout (26:44). Finally, Zach and Bob reminisce about the times they hiked to McCloud Falls last year, including one time in the snow (106:31).

    14. Raising Shasta Dam, Giant Sturgeon and Lake Shasta Caverns W/Matt Doyle | Talking NorCal

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2020 63:01


    On this episode of the Talking NorCal Podcast, Zach and Bob discuss the news of the week including a shark attacking a kayaker along the Humboldt coast, Lassen Volcanic National Park's reopening, the draining of Lower Bucks Lake, the dwindling Sierra snowpack and a brand new adventure company called Ooowee Adventures (7:22). Finally, they sit down with Matt Doyle to discuss all things Shasta Lake including a recap of Memorial Day weekend, the current state and future of Lake Shasta Caverns, raising Shasta Dam and the giant sturgeon that live in the lake (27:17).

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