Paddy Richardson

Paddy Richardson is one of the three passionate voices behind the Busted Knees and Pretty Trees podcast, but Paddy’s love for the wild didn’t start at birth—it started with a single, unforgettable hike.

That pivotal moment came during a trip to Mt. Rainier National Park with his beautiful wife, Ashley. Surrounded by towering peaks, crisp alpine air, and the awe-inspiring beauty of nature, something clicked. The weather, the sounds, the sights—it all stirred something deep inside him. That one hike was something of a revelation for him and the catalyst for all that has followed.

Since then, Paddy has embraced the outdoors with open arms and blistered feet. From backpacking through the rugged beauty of the Tetons, to exploring the sandstone cliffs of Red River Gorge, to hiking the breathtaking trails of New River Gorge, Paddy has built a growing résumé of outdoor adventures. He’s visited 16 national parks—and counting—always chasing that same sense of wonder he first felt at Rainier.

Though he came to hiking later in life, Paddy isn’t new to nature. He has a lifetime of paddling experience under his belt, having spent countless hours on rivers like the Erie, Pine River, Au Sable, and Pere Marquette. Water or trail, forest or gorge, he moves through it all with a spirit of curiosity and gratitude.

On Busted Knees and Pretty Trees, Paddy brings real-world insight, a beginner’s enthusiasm, and a deep respect for the outdoors. Whether he's telling stories from the backcountry or sharing lessons learned the hard way, he reminds listeners that it’s never too late to find your path—and maybe bust a knee or two along the way.