{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/5a949664392f512802a1ffe9/675e61269b72f37e5d21508a?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Missoula: A Thriving Hub of Community, Culture, and Commerce","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/5a949664392f512802a1ffe9/1734235988267-d0e1f4a0-ce1b-40b4-85b5-62c1c2ef3f05.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p><em>Discover how a small Montana city became a thriving hub of culture, entrepreneurship, and community connection. From the iconic Big Dipper Ice Cream celebrating its 30th anniversary to the bustling Caras Park hosting over 100 community events annually, downtown Missoula exemplifies the perfect blend of historical preservation and modern vibrancy.</em></p><p><br></p><p><em>Linda McCarthy, </em><strong><em></em></strong><em>Executive Director of the Downtown Missoula Partnership, shares how Missoula has evolved into a pedestrian-friendly destination where strangers still greet each other on the street. The city's commitment to inclusivity shines through initiatives like zero-fare public transportation and free community events.</em></p><p><br></p><p><em>The \"hip strip\" showcases the entrepreneurial spirit of local businesses, while the University of Montana adds a dynamic educational dimension. Whether it's exploring the farmers markets, enjoying outdoor recreation, or sampling unique local flavors at Big Dipper Ice Cream, Missoula offers what Teresa Cox describes as \"not just a place to make a living, but a place to make a life.\"</em></p><p><br></p><p><em>Listen to this episode to experience the authentic charm of a city where community connection and innovation create something truly special.</em></p><p><br></p><p><strong>SHOW NOTES:</strong></p><p><br></p><p>00:02:35 - Revitalizing Downtown Missoula</p><p>00:05:25 - Exploring Missoula's Rich History and Vibrant Downtown</p><p>00:07:35 - Missoula's Vibrant Downtown Events and Initiatives</p><p>00:12:28 - Preserving Missoula's Community Spirit</p><p>00:14:05 - Celebrating Missoula's Vibrant Arts and Culture</p><p>00:17:27 - Exploring Missoula's Free and Affordable Attractions</p><p>00:24:46 - Favorite Ice Cream Flavors and Missoula's Huckleberry</p><p>00:27:01 - Appreciating Missoula's Unique Outdoors and Music Scene</p><p>00:30:46 - The Thousand Islands Map and Explorer Maps</p><p>00:33:18 - Missoula's Carousel Dream Takes Shape</p><p>00:36:00 - The Missoula Carousel: From Humble Beginnings to Community Treasure</p><p>00:38:20 - Creating a Magical Playground with Children's Input</p><p>00:40:57 - Carousel Horses: Personalized Designs and Time Capsules</p><p>00:43:15 - Pennies for Ponies: Raising Funds for a Carousel</p><p><br></p><ul><li>You can support this podcast by donating a few dollars per month on <a href=\"https://www.patreon.com/traillesstraveled\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Patreon</a>! We really appreciate any contribution, no matter how small.</li><li>Follow the adventures and interviews in real time at <a href=\"https://open.acast.com/www.TrailLessTraveled.net\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">TrailLessTraveled.net</a> and be sure to check out our visual series on <a href=\"https://www.youtube.com/@mandelaleola\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">YouTube</a>, <a href=\"https://www.facebook.com/traillesstraveled\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Facebook</a> and <a href=\"https://www.instagram.com/the.trail.less.traveled/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Instagram</a>.</li><li>The radio version of the show premieres Sunday nights at 6 MST, streaming live online at <a href=\"https://open.acast.com/www.Trail1033.com\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Trail1033.com</a> &amp; locally (Missoula) on the Trail 103.3 FM</li><li>Why listen to the radio version instead of the podcast? Well, because the radio version includes music selected by the folks we interview!</li><li>This episode was recorded on location in collaboration with <a href=\"http://www.xplorermaps.com/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Xplorer Maps</a>. We want to extend boatloads of gratitude to <a href=\"http://www.xplorermaps.com/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Xplorer Maps</a> for their generous support of this podcast and international outreach programs paired with conservation projects.</li></ul><p><br></p>","author_name":"Mandela Leola van Eeden"}