More Than Outdoors Podcast

Austin French and Sam Andrews
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Careers
  • Updated Biweekly

More Than Outdoors meets real-world opportunity. Hosted by two UMF ORBA alums, we explore the people, places, and passions shaping Maine’s outdoor recreation economy — from backcountry trail builders to coastal guides, resort managers to rural entrepreneurs. We go beyond the trail to uncover the stories, strategies, and real-world impact of working in the outdoors. From workforce insights to campfire chats, it’s all about what happens when passion meets profession.

  1. Jun 3

    Sam Roberts: Building a Maine Outdoor Brand - Ep 28

    Sam Roberts: Building a Maine Outdoor Brand In Episode 28, Austin French and Sam Andrews are joined by Sam Roberts, Owner of Sambob, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, outdoor culture, and building an outdoor apparel company in Maine. This episode launches a new series focused on the makers and creators behind Maine’s outdoor recreation economy. Sam shares the realities of operating a modern outdoor brand, the importance of collaboration within the industry, and why authenticity matters when building a company connected to outdoor culture. What you’ll hear: The origin story of SambobThe challenges of running an outdoor apparel brandCollaboration and community in Maine’s outdoor industryBuilding a brand rooted in authenticity and culture🧢 Check out SambobWebsite: https://sambob.biz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sambob.biz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sambob.biz 🌄 Podcast PartnerENO Hammocks Website: https://eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enohammocks/ 📲 Follow & Connect with More Than OutdoorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethanoutdoorspodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Y3sPkLWqruQ2eGfD2eTFY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-outdoors-podcast/id1758537870 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHJAnmz8LNkLbS9QfdW9O2w LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/more-than-outdoors-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EUqjVmwmG/

    55 min

  2. May 20

    Isaac Niblack: What It Really Takes to Run a Fly Fishing Guide Company - Ep 27

    More Than Outdoors Podcast – Episode 27Isaac Niblack: What It Really Takes to Run a Fly Fishing Guide Company In Episode 27, Austin French and Sam Andrews are joined by Isaac Niblack, CEO and Director of Guiding Operations for New England Fly Company. Isaac shares what it takes to operate a fly fishing guide business in Maine today—from guiding clients on the water to building a company centered around education, conservation, and stewardship. This conversation highlights how fly fishing sits at the intersection of recreation, entrepreneurship, and fisheries conservation, and why protecting Maine’s waters is essential to the future of the industry. What you’ll hear: The growth of New England Fly CompanyBehind-the-scenes of running a guide serviceConservation efforts shaping the future of fly fishingWhy stewardship matters for anglers and guides alike🎣 Check out New England Fly CompanyWebsite: https://newenglandfly.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newenglandflycompanyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/newenglandflycompany/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@newenglandflycompany 🌄 Podcast PartnerENO HammocksWebsite: https://eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enohammocks/ 📲 Follow & Connect with More Than OutdoorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethanoutdoorspodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Y3sPkLWqruQ2eGfD2eTFYApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-outdoors-podcast/id1758537870YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHJAnmz8LNkLbS9QfdW9O2wLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/more-than-outdoors-podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EUqjVmwmG/

    45 min

  3. May 6

    Amber Albe: Where Outdoor Recreation and Art Meet - Ep 26

    In Episode 26, Austin French and Sam Andrews are joined by Amber Albe, Founder of Radical Riverworks and Director of Outdoor Recreation for Main Street Skowhegan. Amber shares how outdoor recreation and the arts are deeply connected in community development — from how people experience public spaces to how towns create identity, energy, and opportunity. This conversation explores the role of creativity in outdoor recreation planning, the importance of placemaking, and why the best outdoor communities often thrive because they value both recreation and culture. What you’ll hear: How recreation and art work together in community buildingWhy placemaking matters for Maine townsLessons from Skowhegan’s riverfront and revitalization effortsBuilding stronger communities through creativity and access📍 Check out Radical Riverworks + Main Street Skowhegan Radical RiverworksWebsite: ⁠https://radicalriverworks.org⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/radicalriverworks/⁠Main Street SkowheganWebsite: https://mainstreetskowhegan.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MainStreetSkowhegan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstreetskowhegan/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/main-street-skowhegan/ 🌄 Podcast Partner ENO HammocksWebsite: https://eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enohammocks/ 📲 Follow & Connect with More Than Outdoors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethanoutdoorspodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Y3sPkLWqruQ2eGfD2eTFYApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-outdoors-podcast/id1758537870YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHJAnmz8LNkLbS9QfdW9O2wLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/more-than-outdoors-podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EUqjVmwmG/

    46 min

  4. Apr 22

    Spring to Summer: Planning Your Next Outdoor Season - Ep 25

    More Than Outdoors Podcast – Episode 25 Spring to Summer: Planning Your Next Outdoor Season In Episode 25, Austin French and Sam Andrews take a step back for a seasonal conversation as Maine transitions into spring and summer. They share what they’re most excited about for the upcoming outdoor season and offer practical insights for planning adventures — from short outings to larger trips. This episode focuses on how to approach the season with intention, preparation, and flexibility. What you’ll hear: Seasonal reflections and what’s aheadTips for planning outdoor tripsHow to set realistic expectations for the seasonMaking the most of time outside🌄 Podcast PartnerENO Hammocks Website: https://eaglesnestoutfittersinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enohammocks/ 📲 Follow & Connect with More Than Outdoors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethanoutdoorspodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Y3sPkLWqruQ2eGfD2eTFY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-outdoors-podcast/id1758537870 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHJAnmz8LNkLbS9QfdW9O2w LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/more-than-outdoors-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EUqjVmwmG/

    55 min

  5. Apr 8

    Sam Shirley: Trails, Infrastructure, and the Future of Outdoor Access - Ep 24

    In Episode 24, Austin French and Sam Andrews sit down with Sam Shirley from Maine Huts & Trails for a deeper follow-up conversation to one of our MOES mini episodes. They explore the impact of trail systems and hut networks on outdoor access, local economies, and community building across rural Maine. Sam shares real-world insight into the work behind maintaining and growing a recreation system that serves both residents and visitors. This episode highlights the intersection of outdoor recreation, sustainability, and economic development, offering perspective for anyone interested in the future of the outdoor industry. What you’ll hear:The role of Maine Huts & Trails in Maine’s outdoor landscapeExpanding on conversations from the Outdoor Economy SummitHow trail systems support rural communitiesBalancing recreation, sustainability, and accessInsights into building long-term outdoor infrastructure 🌲 Learn More About Maine Huts & TrailsWebsite: https://mainehuts.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainehutsandtrailsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/mainehutsandtrails 🤝 Podcast PartnerShoutout to our podcast partner, ENO Hammocks — helping you relax, recharge, and get outside wherever you are. 📲 Follow & Connect with More Than Outdoors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethanoutdoorspodcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Y3sPkLWqruQ2eGfD2eTFY Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-outdoors-podcast/id1758537870 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHJAnmz8LNkLbS9QfdW9O2w LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/more-than-outdoors-podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EUqjVmwmG/

    42 min

  6. Mar 25

    Certifications 201: Real Talk on Credentials - Ep 23

    In Episode 23, Austin French and Sam Andrews revisit the topic of certifications in the outdoor industry in this follow-up to Episode 12. They take a deeper look at how certifications fit into career development and share honest perspectives on what actually matters when building experience and advancing your career. This episode is focused on helping outdoor professionals think more strategically about credentials, experience, and long-term growth. What you’ll hear: How certifications impact career progressionChoosing certifications based on your goalsBalancing experience vs. credentialsReal-world insights from working in the outdoor industry📲 Follow & Connect with More Than Outdoors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethanoutdoorspodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Y3sPkLWqruQ2eGfD2eTFYApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-outdoors-podcast/id1758537870YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHJAnmz8LNkLbS9QfdW9O2wLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/more-than-outdoors-podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EUqjVmwmG/

    1h 5m

  7. Mar 11

    Jeff Tucker: The Story of Quarry Road Trails - Ep 22

    More Than Outdoors Podcast – Episode 22Jeff Tucker: The Story of Quarry Road Trails In Episode 22, Austin French and Sam Andrews sit down with Jeff Tucker from Quarry Road Trails in Waterville, Maine. Jeff discusses the history and growth of Quarry Road into a year-round outdoor recreation hub and the role community-driven trail systems play in connecting people to outdoor experiences. From Nordic skiing and mountain biking to races, events, and youth programs, Quarry Road has become a central gathering place for outdoor recreation in central Maine. What you’ll hear: The story behind Quarry Road Trails The impact of community recreation infrastructure How events and programming bring trail systems to life The importance of partnerships and volunteers in trail development 📍 Check out Quarry Road TrailsWebsite: https://quarryroad.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/quarryroadtrailsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/quarryroadtrails/ 📲 Follow & Connect with More Than OutdoorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethanoutdoorspodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Y3sPkLWqruQ2eGfD2eTFYApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-outdoors-podcast/id1758537870YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHJAnmz8LNkLbS9QfdW9O2wLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/more-than-outdoors-podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EUqjVmwmG/

    50 min

  8. Feb 25

    Kayla Lee: Expanding Access Through Adaptive Outdoor Education - Ep 21

    In Episode 21, Austin French and Sam Andrews are joined by Kayla Lee, Director of the Adaptive Outdoor Education Center. Kayla shares how adaptive outdoor education is about more than equipment — it’s about building systems that create belonging, independence, and opportunity. The conversation explores how AOEC is expanding access across Maine and what inclusive leadership looks like in practice. This episode is a reminder that when we design outdoor experiences intentionally, everyone benefits. ✨ What you’ll hear: The mission and growth of AOEC How adaptive recreation programs are built Why access must be proactive, not reactive The long-term impact of inclusive outdoor experiences 📍 Check out the Adaptive Outdoor Education Center Website: https://www.adaptiveoutdoored.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/adaptiveoutdooredInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/adaptiveoutdoored/ 📲 Follow & Connect with More Than Outdoors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morethanoutdoorspodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Y3sPkLWqruQ2eGfD2eTFYApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-than-outdoors-podcast/id1758537870YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHJAnmz8LNkLbS9QfdW9O2wLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/more-than-outdoors-podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EUqjVmwmG/

    47 min
See All (28)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

More Than Outdoors meets real-world opportunity. Hosted by two UMF ORBA alums, we explore the people, places, and passions shaping Maine’s outdoor recreation economy — from backcountry trail builders to coastal guides, resort managers to rural entrepreneurs. We go beyond the trail to uncover the stories, strategies, and real-world impact of working in the outdoors. From workforce insights to campfire chats, it’s all about what happens when passion meets profession.

Information

  • Creator
    Austin French and Sam Andrews
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Austin French and Sam Andrews
  • Show Website
    More Than Outdoors Podcast