Whether you’re just beginning to explore the Western United States or you’ve been living here since the day you were born, the Via Podcast will introduce you to new and unique adventures that will change your perspective. Hosts Mitti Hicks and Michelle Donati bring their travel expertise to interviews with some of the West’s most fascinating experts, residents, and adventurers. In each episode, you will discover deep conversations in the hopes of igniting a new interest—foraging anyone?—or planting the seeds of a new-to-you road trip. You might even learn something about a place you’ve explored dozens of times before.
Episodes
Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
Tuesday Sep 30, 2025
Missed a stop? We’ve got you. This season’s recap rewinds our best moments. Join hosts Mitti and Michelle as they recall tales of haunted nights aboard the Queen Mary, close encounters near Area 51, a record-breaking birder who can hoot like an owl, the rhinestone sparkle of Portland’s 8 Seconds Rodeo, and the cuddly joys of goat yoga. Along the way, they share listener shout-outs, unexpected lessons, and a few dream guests they’re already plotting for season three. (Kendrick Lamar, call us.)
Best-of hits:
- Spooky stays debate: Michelle vows never to sleep in a former hospital; Mitti would (barely) choose staying in an ex-morgue over risking Scary Mary’s chilling grip in Skagway, Alaska.
- Alien encounters: From the UFO episode, Laura Krantz’s creepy run-in at Area 51’s gate and the mysterious Black Mailbox letters.
- Chef Preeti Mistry’s real talk: Rethinking food as personal storytelling; plus a dash of spicy Top Chef tea.
- Bird-nerd joy: Noah Strycker’s pitch-perfect pygmy-owl call and beginner-friendly ID tips.
- Black rodeo boom: Ivan McClellan’s Eight Seconds—packed arenas and high-style Western flair. Mitti’s already planning her outfit for the next one.
- Cheese Trail nibbles: Goat cuddles, Cougar Gold in a can, and Monterey Jack’s unscrupulous origin story.
- Upcoming travels: Michelle’s saying yes to oddball stops (barefoot hike near Flagstaff, Arizona) and plotting a trip to Belize or Portugal; Mitti’s off to Jordan and a Rocky Mountaineer rail trip.
- Listener love: Michelle’s dad’s texts, DMs from fans, and special mailbag moments.
Via Podcast is a production of AAA Mountain West Group.
No comments yet. Be the first to say something!