In this heartfelt episode of "90 Miles from Needles," host Chris Clarke shares an evocative reading from his book, "Walking with Zeke," reflecting on meaningful experiences with his previous dog Zeke. This story reveals the depth of his connection to his pets and nature, illustrating the profound impact these relationships have on his life and work. The touching narrative about camping under the moonlight in Red Rock Canyon offers listeners a serene and introspective break from the podcast's usual format.

Key Takeaways:

• Balancing Activism and Personal Life: The importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially for activists.

• Personal Challenges: Insights into Chris's recent struggles with extreme weather and his dog's health, fostering a connection with the audience.

• Evocative Storytelling: Chris's reading from "Walking with Zeke" demonstrates his deep bond with nature and his pets.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Taking care of the desert comes from the same root as taking care of your family, taking care of those around you, however you define family."

2. "My dog breathes soft against my ribs, and an owl takes wing from the far cliffs, and I sit here, and Zeke with me, and he leans tonight, this moment..."

3. "It is a thigmotropic partnership, this pairing of dog and human. We crave each other's touch..."

4. "We arrived too late to claim the sheltered campsites at the base of those cliffs. The wind has scoured this campsite clean of all but the Joshua trees."

5. "I will recall this moment. I will remember this moment forever, I think to myself."

Resources:

• 90 Miles from Needles - Donate

• Mazamar Art Pottery

• Walking with Zeke by Chris Clarke

Don't miss out on this moving episode of "90 Miles from Needles" to feel a deeper connection to the desert and the personal lives intertwined with its protection. Stay tuned for more insightful stories and critical discussions about environmental preservation.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris chats with Lucas Basulto, president of the Desert Advocacy Media Network, from a swelteringly hot living room about snakes in the desert. They trade snake stories, discuss common misconceptions about these reptiles, and stress the ecological importance of preserving their habitats. From Lucas' childhood snake-collecting antics to how to handle snake bites and the issue of road mortality, this episode offers a deep dive into the fascinating world of desert snakes. Whether you're a herpetology enthusiast or just snake-curious, this episode offers valuable insights and engaging discussions.

The site Luke mentioned for identifying California snakes is californiaherps.com. Similar sites focusing on snakes of other states: Here are Arizona and Texas and New Mexico and Nevada.

The video of Chris' dog Heart chilling out with a cranky red racer (a.k.a. coachwhip) is here.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Become a desert defender!: https://90milesfromneedles.com/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.