S4E13: Yuck: The Wild, Weird History of Joshua Trees with Barret Baumgart

Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of the "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke is joined by author Barret Baumgart. The conversation centers around Baumgart's book "Yuck," which explores the peculiar and iconic Joshua Tree. From its historical misunders…

S4E12: We Need To Talk About "De-Extinction"

About the Host: Chris Clarke is an environmental advocate and the knowledgeable host of the "90 Miles from Needles" podcast. He is committed to desert protection and conservation, bringing decades of experience and insights into environmental issues, policy discussions, and activism. Known for draw…

S4E11: Beauty Meets Struggle: The Endangered Treasures of BLM Lands

About the Guest:  Josh Jackson is a passionate author and explorer of public lands, focusing specifically on the often-overlooked Bureau of Land Management (BLM) territories in California. He is the mastermind behind the "Forgotten Lands Project," where he explores and highlights the beauty and si…

S4E10: 3 Ways the Desert Improves Your Life

Episode Summary: In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles: The Desert Protection Podcast," host Chris Clarke looks into three astonishing science facts about deserts that challenge traditional views of these arid landscapes. From the surprising biological interactions involving desert tortoises a…

S4E9: DEI and Desert Protection

Chris Clarke explores the intersection of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) with desert protection, highlighting how Trump's attacks on DEI harm not just people but also the ecosystems and communities inhabiting deserts. He delves into historical and contemporary issues, from indigenous genoci…

S4E8: Plan Sonora: The New Face of Green Colonialism

About the Guest:  Caroline Tracey is a distinguished writer focusing on topics related to art, literature, environment, and migration in the U.S., the Southwest, Mexico, and borderland regions. Caroline contributes to the Border Chronicle, among other reputable publications such as N1, The Nation,…

S4E7: The Southwest's Hidden Urban Histories

Join host Chris Clarke for an insightful discussion with journalist Kyle Paoletta about his book "American Oasis: Finding the Future in the Cities of the Southwest." Explore surprising histories and contemporary challenges of cities like Albuquerque, Las Vegas, and El Paso, and their role in shapin…

S4E6: The Desert Speaks Out

Episode Summary: In this episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke delves into two pivotal events illuminating the current challenges and triumphs in desert conservation efforts. The episode captures the essence of grassroots advocacy, community solidarity, and the ongoing struggle to …

S4E5: DOGE Layoffs Are Sabotaging Public Lands

About the Guest Kristen Brengel serves as the Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA). With extensive experience in advocacy and policy, Kristen has been a pivotal voice in the conservation and protection of national parks across the Unite…

S4E4: Other Podcasts You Should Check Out

This week, Chris shifts focus to recommending several podcasts that align with the mission of desert protection and conservation. Marissa Ortega Welch’s “How Wild” challenges conventional perceptions of wilderness by exploring cultural narratives that shape our understanding of solitude in nature. …