In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are bringing back another edition of Q&A. Today we’re joined by our pal and chronic thru-hiker and adventurer, Steven “Twinkle” Shattuck to answer your burning trail-related questions. Today’s episode covers a wide range of topics, including the feasibility and necessity of carrying a gun while backpacking, the dangers of “crush it syndrome” in light of Christopher Roma’s recent tragic passing, Twinkle's top trails from around the world, the most overrated piece of gear, how we prevent blisters, and much more. Simply put, if you like your Qs being A’d, you have stumbled upon the right episode. We wrap the show with the top sleeping bags, quilts, and pads from the AT last year, the top home theft suggestions to mildly inconvenience your victim, and the triple crown of foods that are way better or worse when homemade. Jenna Davis: Email jenna@firstsummitrealty.com or call 303-946-9476 to get a free consultation. Gossamer Gear: Use code “DINGLEBERRY” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.  Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. [divider] Panel with Steven “Twinkle” Shattuck Twinkle's Instagram Backpacker Radio Episode #6: Steven “Twinkle” Shattuck on Dirt-Bagging for a Year, The Best Headlamps for Thru-Hiking, and Curing Anxiety on Trail Backpacker Radio 61 | Grace and Steven “Twinkle” Shattuck on Their 15 Month Dirtbagging Adventure Time stamps & Questions 00:02:50 - Bid on our Tyvek wall until February 29, apply to be a blogger, and support us on Patreon! 00:05:22 - Introducing Twinkle 00:08:30 - Crush It Syndrome - check out Skurka’s article, Christopher Roma: Learning to turn back 00:28:17 - Backpacking with a gun 00:53:45 - Twinkle’s top 3 trail recommendations in the world 00:57:11 - Twinkle’s favorite international hikes 01:00:40 - What’s the most overrated piece of gear? 01:14:53 - How do you stay safe from ticks while outside? How much do you worry about them? (Check out episode 200 to learn more about Lyme disease) 01:22:50 - If you had to do a medium length trail (100-500 miles) this year, which one would it be? (Check out Eloise Robbin’s article, The Best Time of Year to Hike These 23 Popular Long Trails and Swami’s website, The Hiking Life) 01:29:51 - As a future dad, how do you instill both an interest and a respect for nature in young kids? (Check out episode 152 to hear Nancy East discuss this topic) 01:37:48 - What is your daily routine for foot care to prevent blisters while doing big miles? 01:42:30 - Can you tell us about your most emotionally draining experience on trail? 01:52:11 - What brand of instant coffee will help you poop the best? 01:53:58 - How does someone get into canyoneering? Where do you begin? 01:55:56 - What is the best 311 song or album? Segments Trek Propaganda: The Top Sleeping Bags, Quilts, and Pads on the Appalachian Trail: 2023 Thru-Hiker Survey by Kate Richard  QOTD: You’re a burglar but you can only steal things that mildly inconvenience your victims. What are you taking? Triple Crown of foods that are way better or worse when homemade Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Jason “Snail” Snailer, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by Kevin Koski, known on trail as “The Animal.” Kevin is the man behind the Four Corners Loop, a new 2,300 mile route circling the four corners region across Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico. We learn all about this route and Kevin’s hike, including how he mapped it, his favorite stretches of trail, his favorite towns- which he saw as a standout feature of the trek, some very entertaining stories, and Kevin’s vision for this one day becoming a national scenic trail. Kevin is an engaging storyteller, you think you’ll really enjoy this one. We wrap the show by teasing some news about a live podcast we’ll be putting on in Denver this spring, words we think would make pretty baby names if not for the meaning already attached to it, the triple crown of tips to improve sleep on trail, and a new cinnamon court on whether a listeners method of cleaning their hands with spitwater is sanitary. Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Gossamer Gear: Use code “DINGLEBERRY” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Kevin “the Animal” Koski Four Corners Loop Association Website Four Corners Loop Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:17 - Reminders: Live podcast in Denver is in the works, the hair wall launches TODAY, get exclusive content on Patreon, and sign up for BPR’s email list to get a free sticker! 00:08:04 - Introducing Kevin 00:10:27 - What’s your background in the outdoors? 00:14:26 - Tell us about your CDT hike in 2004 00:17:06 - What’s the story behind your trail name? 00:18:51 - What’s the most luxurious thing in your pack? 00:20:04 - What was the CDT like in 2004? 00:23:20 - What accounted for the big gap between the CDT and PCT? 00:26:08 - Tell us what made the PCT a “walking party”? 00:29:25 - How did you transition from the main trails to doing more isolated ones? 00:32:42 - How did you plan the specific Four Corners Loop route? 00:37:40 - Did you plan it to be a trail others could replicate? 00:39:30 - Tell us more details about the route 00:44:40 - Discussion about the Arizona portion of the route 00:46:00 - Discussion about the Utah portion of the route 00:48:30 - Discussion about the trail magic along the route 00:51:18 - What was the typical length of your water carries? 00:54:00 - Continuation of the Utah portion of the route 00:58:58 - Discussion about resupplies and pacing along the route 01:02:20 - Discussion about hiking into Colorado 01:05:10 - Story about almost falling off a cliff and rerouting the trail 01:06:30 - Discussion about the Colorado portion of the route 01:10:50 - Discussion about hiking from Salida to New Mexico 01:14:04 - How much of the trail was road walking? 01:14:30 - Discussion about the New Mexico portion of the route 01:17:33 - What was your typical water source in the dry sections? 01:20:17 - What’s the optimal weather window for this trail? 01:22:15 - Discussion about cell service along the route 01:23:20 - What was your favorite trail town in each state? 01:24:16 - Is the route well outlined enough for someone else to follow? 01:25:44 - What are some of your standout stories from hiking? 01:29:03 - What one week stretch of this trail would you relive or eliminate? 01:32:10 - Do you have tips for someone getting into route finding? 01:33:30 - How much of this route is on no trail at all? 01:34:24 - Tell us your best poop story 01:35:41 - Where can people go to keep up with you? Segments Trek Propaganda: Top Tents and Shelters on the Appalachian Trail: 2023 Thru-Hiker Survey by Kate Richard QOTD: Which word do you think would make a pretty baby name if it didn’t mean what it meant? Triple Crown of things that improve your sleep on trail Cinnamon Court 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Jason “Snail” Snailer, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again loving love. That's right, it's the 4th edition of our Valentine's Day-themed show. Today we catch up with Wesley and Marie Black, known on trail as Yeti Legs and Basecamp. Less than two years after meeting, they were not only married but together taking on a thru-hike of the PCT. Wesley and Marie pull no punches in sharing the nitty-gritty of making a relationship work during a thru-hike and are especially candid about their on-trail sex life including their hygiene practices, foreplay, what they use for lubrication, best positions in a tent, and more. This one is entertaining, enlightening, and slightly erotic. Strap in. We wrap the show with what we would do if we could be our significant other for a day, the triple crown of petty fights we have with our partners, Marie shares a plastic melting shit story, and Chaunce has a very dumb stupid thing of the week. Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “DINGLEBERRY” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Wes & Marie Wes & Marie's Instagram Wes & Marie's Linktree Time stamps & Questions 00:04:55 - Reminders: Last call to apply for the BPR internship, Tyvek wall goes on sale next week, and the Badger Sponsorship launched today! 00:09:35 - Introducing Wes & Marie 00:11:40 - Story of how Wes & Marie met 00:14:30 - When did you get engaged? 00:19:42 - Did you have any concerns about getting engaged so quickly? 00:24:00 - Did you have any doubts in the first six months? 00:26:01 - Do you have baby fever? 00:28:53 - What led to deciding to thru-hike together? 00:32:05 - What outdoor experience did you have before meeting each other? 00:35:30 - How did you transition from running to hiking? 00:38:16 - When did you realize you had a lot of heavy gear? 00:40:30 - What was it like hiking in a high snow year? 00:43:28 - How did your mileage change between the desert and the Sierras? 00:44:50 - What did you learn about each other on the PCT you didn’t know before? 00:50:40 - How did you handle the time stress? 00:56:20 - Tell us about your career in film 01:01:25 - What were your best fights on trail? 01:13:20 - What other tips do you have for couples on trail? 01:15:12 - What’s your sex life like on trail? 01:18:32 - What are your tips for having great sex on trail? 01:24:27 - Did you bring any toys? 01:26:00 - Why didn’t you have sex during the day? 01:27:23 - Did you take any of your PCT lessons into the Tour du Mont Blanc or the CT? 01:29:24 - Raise the shoe game! 01:47:44 - Tell us about the Colorado Trail hike 01:52:50 - Fuck Marry Kill: PCT, TMB, CT 01:54:40 - Will you share one of your favorite hidden gem hikes? 01:56:11 - Tell us about your podcast 01:58:35 - Tell us about how you met Dirt Diva Segments Trek Propaganda: The Ultimate Guide to Thru-Hiking Electronics by Alex “GPS” Brown QOTD: If you could wake up and be your significant other for a day, what would you do that day? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of petty fights you have with your partner Gross or Not Gross Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Jason “Snail” Snailer, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Bailey “PseudoSloth” Bremner. In addition to hikes of the CDT, Great Divide Trail, Pinhoti, and Benton Mackaye, we do a deep dive on a pair of custom routes that Bailey mapped out herself. The Columbine Route, which crosses the full length of Colorado, and another custom route extending all the way from Canada to Mexico, both of which she completed with her two dogs by her side. We learn all about the specifics of these routes, the tools and strategies she used to design them, the various geographical high and lowlights, her favorite stories from these hikes, and how she manages this unconventional style of trekking alongside her pair of pups. We wrap the show with a follow-up on the technical glitches iPhone users experienced with FarOut's app this year, the number of owls we'd have to see in a day before we knew something was wrong, and the triple crown of words we will never be able to spell correctly. Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “DINGLEBERRY” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.  LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. [divider] Interview with Bailey “PseudoSloth” Bremner Bailey's Instagram Bailey's Youtube Time stamps & Questions 00:03:50 - Reminders: Apply to be a BPR intern or a Trek blogger! 00:06:40 - Introducing Bailey 00:09:20 - What’s your background? 00:10:42 - Tell us about your dogs! 00:12:11 - How important is cleaning their teeth? 00:13:07 - How do you accommodate your hiking for your smaller dog? 00:15:05 - What does your daily mileage look like? 00:17:40 - What do you do for their feet during your hikes? 00:19:14 - What changes did you make to your dogs’ gear and food? 00:23:05 - How much weight are you typically carrying? 00:25:43 - What type of treats and toys do you bring for the dogs? 00:28:00 - Tell us your trail resume 00:29:22 - How did you decide to hike the Great Divide Trail after the Colorado Trail? 00:31:27 - Can you give us a brief overview of the Great Divide Trail? 00:33:18 - Did you have any points where you felt in over your head? 00:36:15 - What do you like about less conventional hikes? 00:39:04 - What advice does an orienteering class include? 00:41:52 - Discussion about creating routes using Gaia 00:42:52 - Tell us about hiking your custom 750-mile loop 00:48:15 - How did you come up with the Columbine Route’s name? 00:49:08 - What takeaways from your first custom route did you bring to the Columbine Route? 00:50:20 - How do your dogs handle blowdowns? 00:51:16 - Give us an overview of the Columbine Route 00:57:30 - How much of the trail is trail, roads, or bushwacking? 01:00:41 - Have you thought about tweaking the route at all? 01:02:24 - Do the dogs get any special town treats? 01:03:08 - Any parting thoughts about the Columbine Route and general route finding? 01:05:00 - What section of the Columbine Route would you want to relive? 01:08:12 - Discussion about pace and timing 01:11:54 - Tell us about the inspiration and planning for your custom Mexico to Canada route 01:17:22 - What percent of the route was on road? 01:19:25 - Do you have any scary road stories? 01:20:35 - Did you do the Arizona Trail besides the Grand Canyon section? 01:23:39 - Do you have any good wildlife or spooky stories? 01:27:35 - Tell us the bat story! 01:33:04 - Any other standout stories? Segments Trek Propaganda How FarOut’s 2023 Glitches Highlight the Drawbacks of Backcountry Tech Reliance by Maggie Slepian The Top Footwear on the Appalachian Trail: 2023 Thru-Hiker Survey by Kate Richard QOTD: How many owls would you have to see in a singular day before you knew something was wrong? Triple Crown of words you will never be able to spell correctly Mail Bag 5 Star [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by David “Moondog” Roop. Moondog, alongside his buddy, has done the Natchez Trace Trail, Florida Trail, and 500 miles through New Mexico, not on foot, but instead on skateboard which he refers to as a thru-skate. We learn all about what goes into such a unique adventure, including how his gear differs relative to traditional backpacking, what terrain is skateboardable and what isn’t, how sore his push muscles get over the course of a full day of skateboarding, and more. We wrap the show with the first edition of the 2023 AT thru-hiker survey results, the weirdest things we’ve brought home after a night out, and our triple crown of campaign promises. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer’s Permethrin Pump at REI. Gossamer Gear: Use code “DINGLEBERRY” for 20% off backpacks at gossamergear.com. Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. [divider] Interview with David “Moondog” Roop Moondog's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:03:01 - Reminders: Subscribe to the Trek’s newsletter to hear when the Tyvek wall is available, subscribe to us on YouTube, and apply to be a 2024 blogger! 00:05:35 - Introducing Moondog 00:06:00 - Tell us about Madrid, NM 00:09:21 - How did you get your trail name? 00:11:18 - How does thru-skating work? 00:16:00 - How many miles can you normally skate in a day? 00:16:44 - What was your backpacking experience prior to starting skateboarding? 00:17:50 - What muscles get sore after a full day of skateboarding? 00:19:06 - Do you factor in the weight of the board? 00:21:00 - How hard was the learning curve? 00:22:06 - How much of the trail do you need to skate to consider it a thru-skate? 00:24:38 - Tell us some wipeout stories 00:27:08 - Do wipeouts make you consider more what you wear? 00:29:20 - Compare and contrast the Florida Trail and the Natchez Trace 00:32:00 - Discussion about skating effort and strategy 00:34:03 - How was your experience doing a full trail end to end? 00:36:00 - Discussion about wildlife on the Florida Trail 00:37:05 - Do you ever have gear malfunctions with the skateboard? 00:38:23 - Discussion about ultra skating 00:40:10 - Are there any interesting things skaters do that hikers don’t? 00:42:13 - Tell us about your New Mexico thru-skate 00:45:12 - What portion was hiking versus skating? 00:46:50 - What’s a standout moment you’ve had while thru-skating? 00:49:30 - How did you land on the Natchez Trace Trail? 00:51:12 - What’s the best time of year to do it? 00:52:22 - Have you considered using a mountain board to do something more rugged? 00:53:20 - How do you protect your board? 00:55:00 - How would you design your dream board? 00:55:45 - What did you do in Puerto Rico? 00:57:26 - What thru-skates are on your bucket list? Segments Trek Propaganda: The 2023 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Survey: General Information Part 1 by Kate Richard QOTD: What’s the weirdest thing you’ve brought home on a night out? Triple Crown of our presidential campaign promises Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Jason “Snail” Snailer, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by someone you are likely already following on Instagram, Matt Lyons known on trail as "Schmutz". Schmutz is a thru-hiker, social media comedian and celebrity. He gives us an overview on his process for making short comedic skits, how life has changed during his rise to fame, and all that's gone into growing his Instagram and TikTok to nearly a half million followers. We also learn about Matt's backpacking journey, including the time he had to tearfully chase a fellow thru-hiker who was carrying his tent in the wrong direction. Schmutz also gives us a preview of his forthcoming documentary about southbound thru-hiking the PCT. We wrap the show opining on why there aren't wild chickens, the triple crown of things that have made us question our own IQs, and some details about how you can get your hands on Backpacker Radio's infamous hair wall. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer’s Permethrin Pump at REI. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Badger + Chaunce Signed Book Package: Use code “LITTLEDONKEYGIRL” for $5 off and get a BPR sticker at store.thetrek.co. [divider] Interview with Matt “Schmutz” Lyons Matt's Instagram Matt's Merch Time stamps & Questions 00:03:48 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for bonus content, subscribe to the Trek’s newsletter to hear when the Tyvek wall is available, and apply to be a 2024 blogger! 00:06:45 - Introducing Matt 00:07:35 - How long do you spend planning out the names in your videos? 00:09:20 - Do you have a background in comedy? 00:11:33 - Have you been told your voice is good for audio? 00:12:38 - Does your girlfriend think you’re funny? 00:14:32 - What’s your background in the outdoors? 00:16:30 - How many of your videos involve making fun of yourself? 00:19:26 - Have you ever made too much fun of a group or activity? 00:23:48 - How would you describe your skits? 00:25:55 - Was there a turning point when your comedy became more professional? 00:27:20 - What’s it like to make social content while teaching middle schoolers? 00:32:54 - Tell us the story of you forgetting your tent in Stehekin 00:37:30 - Tell us about getting a boat hitch 00:39:30 - Tell us about starting the AT in 2019 00:42:36 - Would you describe yourself as an extrovert? 00:44:00 - What were your biggest fuckups and standout stories on the AT? 00:47:17 - How did you get your trail name? 00:50:08 - What’s your most embarrassing moment from trail? 00:51:01 - What years did you hike the PCT? 00:53:25 - What was your social experience like on the PCT? 00:57:30 - What was your motivation for thru-hiking? 00:58:20 - Have you ever shit your pants? 01:00:40 - Discussion about Schmutz’s diet off and on trail 01:02:40 - What are some other firm beliefs you have? 01:03:35 - Have you built up your dream gear? 01:07:18 - Do you have a next trail on the bucket list? 01:08:20 - Tell us about the documentary 01:13:20 - Will the documentary be comedic? 01:15:14 - Is it hard to pass off footage to other people? 01:17:20 - How did you manage your knee? 01:19:10 - Tell us about Frontcountry Apparel 01:21:00 - Which videos did better than you expected? 01:23:05 - Are thru-hiking videos too niche for your audience now? 01:25:00 - Discussion about Matt’s video making process 01:29:01 - How often do people recognize you? 01:30:27 - How do you handle working with brands? Segments Trek Propaganda: How Fast is too Fast? 6 Lessons from a Sub-80 Day Thru-Hike by Isabel Koran QOTD: Why aren’t there wild chickens? Triple Crown of things that have made you question your own IQ Mail Bag [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Jason “Snail” Snailer, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by the very highly requested Kyle O'Grady, known in the world of YouTube as Kyle Hates Hiking. Kyle is an experienced backpacker, having hiked the Long Trail, Appalachian Trail, Northville Placid Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Ouachita Trail, amongst many others. In addition to learning about his many trail tales, we dive deep into his passion for video creation especially on the subjects of true crime and trail mysteries. From humble beginnings as a Writer for AppalachianTrials.com to having more than 300,000 subscribers on YouTube, this is an entertaining detailing of Kyle's rise in the world of backpacking media. We wrap the show with some details about the impending sale of Backpacker Radio's famous hair wall, what we would do with an elephant, and the triple crown of social media hiking stereotypes. Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Feathered Friends: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 10% off at featheredfriends.com. Badger + Chaunce Signed Book Package: Use code “LITTLEDONKEYGIRL” for $5 off and get a BPR sticker at store.thetrek.co. [divider] Interview with Kyle O’Grady Kyle's Instagram Kyle's Youtube Trail Tales Podcast Time stamps & Questions 00:05:14 - Reminders: Support our editor, Pauly, and his coffee roastery, subscribe to the Trek’s newsletter, and apply to be a Trek blogger! 00:08:50 - Introducing Kyle 00:11:10 - Discussion about Kyle writing for Appalachian Trials 00:14:20 - Do people know you more from podcasting or Youtube? 00:15:15 - Give us a rundown on your Youtube 00:18:00 - What’s the process of writing and recording a trail mystery? 00:22:35 - How did you decide to pursue trail mystery stories? 00:26:00 - Give us the overview of the Scott Lilly story 00:27:51 - Give us the overview of the Bismarck story 00:32:00 - Discussion about the perception of the trail as dangerous 00:35:35 - Fuck Marry Kill: True crime, gear breakdowns, general thru-hiking advice 00:37:57 - Discussion about clickbait 00:40:02 - How do you decide how to portray your videos? 00:41:30 - Are you a gear nerd? 00:44:11 - Where do you get your footage? 00:45:45 - What sort of marketing education do you have? 00:49:48 - How do you maintain motivation despite negative comments? 00:52:37 - How did you transition to full time? 00:56:40 - Do you get anxious when a video doesn’t do as well as you expected? 00:59:08 - How much of a video’s success is due to the content versus the algorithm? 01:03:40 - Tell us about your podcast titles 01:06:45 - Discussion about asking AI questions about thru-hiking 01:08:50 - What’s the origin of the name Kyle Hates Hiking? 01:15:40 - What’s the latest thru-hiking social media gossip? 01:19:52 - Are you doing a lot of hiking in Hawaii? 01:23:57 - What’s your hot take about tramilies? 01:26:04 - Why should someone hike the Northville Placid Trail? 01:30:00 - Discussion about the Lone Star Trail 01:33:38 - Tell us about your podcast 01:36:07 - What are the primary differences between making a good video versus a good podcast? 01:41:26 - Story about Zach and Kyle’s near miss interaction 01:50:55 - Story about a bad fan interaction 01:55:25 - What’s the hiker scene like in Burlington? 01:58:00 - Is there an underrated Long Trail mystery? 02:06:20 - Discussion about Kyle writing for the Trek 02:08:30 - What’s next for you? Segments Trek Propaganda: The Best Thru-Hiking Tents of 2024 by the Editors QOTD: You’ve been given an elephant. You can’t give it away or sell it. What would you do with the elephant? Triple Crown of social media hiking stereotypes 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Nicole “ShotGun” Kulovitz. Nicole only recently began long distance backpacking, but in just the last few years, has thru-hiked the CDT, Arizona Trail, Florida Trail, Hayduke, Pacific Northwest Trail, Oregon Desert Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, Long Trail, Timberline Trail, Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, and the Low to High Trail. In other words, she somehow has packed a lifetime of miles into a four year span. We learn all about her instant infatuation with backpacking, learning lessons from a failed thru-hike attempt, how she financially is able to make long distance backpacking a lifestyle, her experiences as a wildland firefighter, some epic stories of degeneracy, and more. This is a fun chat, good news for the sort of person who’s into fun. We wrap the show with some standout winter thru-hikes for those who hate snow, our go-to Taco Bell orders, a triple crown of undesirable camp chores, and a fun pee story courtesy of a listener. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer’s Permethrin Pump at REI. Feathered Friends: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 10% off at featheredfriends.com. Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Nicole “ShotGun” Kulovitz Nicole's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:07:12 - Reminders: Apply to be a blogger or a BPR intern and support us on Patreon for exclusive content! 00:12:20 - Introducing Nicole 00:15:09 - What’s your trail name origin story? 00:18:07 - Tell us about being a wildland firefighter 00:21:57 - How does the end of a day as a firefighter compare to the end of a day hiking? 00:23:05 - How did you become a wildland firefighter? 00:25:33 - Discussion about firefighting tasks, housing, and scheduling 00:29:04 - Is there a high burnout rate for firefighters? 00:31:49 - Do you look at trees differently now? 00:33:17 - How is the pay and what is your cost of living like? 00:38:40 - At what point did backpacking become your lifestyle? 00:41:27 - Tell us about hiking the PCT in a high snow year 00:47:30 - What’s the drama in Kennedy Meadows? 00:51:14 - Which portion of the trail did you hike last year? 00:51:35 - Why do you hate California? 00:53:08 - Take us from there to your first successful thru-hike 00:58:16 - How did you transition from the desert trails to the Long Trail? 01:00:37 - What were your best fun activities on trail? 01:07:41 - What does your average drinking night look like? 01:11:16 - Tell us about hiking the Long Trail 01:14:14 - What kind of hiking schedule do you keep? 01:18:00 - Discussion about rain gear 01:20:05 - How does the AZT compare to the Long Trail in difficulty? 01:23:35 - How many miles have you gotten out of your shoes? 01:25:43 - Tell us about the Hayduke 01:29:55 - How did you develop routefinding skills? 01:34:01 - How many miles do you do on average per day? 01:38:32 - Was the Florida Trail boring compared to the Hayduke? 01:41:54 - Did the dogs make you want to skip the road walks? 01:42:50 - Tell us about the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail 01:48:46 - Tell us about the Pacific Northwest Trail 01:52:45 - How did routefinding on the PNT compare to the Hayduke? 01:54:10 - Did you have any standout experiences on the Oregon Desert Trail? 01:56:23 - Would you recommend the Oregon Desert Trail to newer thru-hikers? 01:57:14 - Tell us about the Grand Enchantment Trail 01:59:02 - What are some of Brett Tucker’s other routes? 02:01:00 - Discussion about optimal trail lengths 02:02:55 - What do you do to make ends meet during the off season? 02:13:10 - How did you like the CDT if you normally prefer shorter trails? 02:20:28 - Where can people follow you? Segments Trek Propaganda: 10 Awesome Snow-Free Winter Thru-Hikes by Diane Duffard QOTD: What is your Taco Bell order? Triple Crown of camp chores you hate Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Lauren Roerick. Lauren has hiked both the Colorado Trail and Sunshine Coast Trail along with a solid chunk of the PCT, but the focus of today’s episode is her recent thru-hike of the nearly 1,900-mile HexaTrek across France. Lauren gives us an in-depth run down of her trek and the trail at large, including the HexaTrek’s specific geography, the resupply and vibe of the country's quaint villages, the unique, French cultural quirks (including happening upon a nudist camp), the campsites, hitchhiking in France, the food and wine, camping next to castles and on ridgelines in the Alps, and much more. In a nutshell, this trail which you’ve likely never heard of is about to rocket up your bucket list. You’ve been warned. We wrap the show with our predictions and hopes for 2024, the triple crown of things we hoard, and how an iconic point of the AT's viewshed was saved by a former guest of the podcast. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Feathered Friends: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 10% off at featheredfriends.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Lauren “Long Way” Roerick Lauren's Instagram Lauren's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:05:45 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive content, apply to blog for the Trek, and check out our merch! 00:08:24 - Introducing Lauren 00:10:07 - Tell us about living in Taiwan and Germany 00:15:10 - What is your musical experience? 00:18:27 - How did you get into backpacking? 00:22:42 - How did you decide to go southbound? 00:24:00 - What were the first few weeks of trail like? 00:27:00 - What was your mindset like? 00:30:40 - Rank the five sections of the PCT 00:32:58 - Tell us about the Colorado Trail and your favorite stretches 00:35:35 - Were you disappointed when you got home? 00:37:13 - Why did you finish the Colorado Trail with fewer people than you started with? 00:39:48 - Tell us about the Sunshine Coast Trail 00:41:55 - What other hidden gems are in British Columbia? 00:46:08 - What are the basics of the HexaTrek? 00:48:50 - Did you learn French prior to the hike? 00:51:06 - What was it like going from town to town? 00:52:30 - How did you learn about and decide to hike the HexaTrek? 00:56:25 - How did you determine how far to hike each day? 00:58:20 - Tell us about the other people you hiked with 01:00:56 - Were you or your parents concerned about you hiking in another country? 01:03:08 - Compare the backcountry experiences of the PCT and HexaTrek01:04:48 - What kind of wildlife did you encounter? 01:05:45 - What were the resupplies like? 01:12:55 - Do you recommend carrying cash along the trail? 01:13:53 - What region of the trail had the best wine? 01:14:46 - How long would you recommend to complete the trail? 01:16:50 - Tell us about the route finding you had to do? 01:18:40 - If you could repeat a section of the trail, which would it be? 01:19:30 - Were there any sections of scrambling or exposure? 01:20:50 - Did you change any of your gear between the PCT and the HexaTrek? 01:24:45 - Tell us some of your notable stories from the trail 01:31:40 - Did you do any hitchhiking along the HexaTrek? 01:35:15 - What preparation would you recommend for people interested in the HexaTrek? 01:39:00 - Did you set up cell service? 01:40:00 - Discussion about budgeting for the HexaTrek 01:41:50 - What do you want to do next? 01:44:00 - Tell us your poop stories! 01:49:20 - Tell us about your video equipment and process 01:51:09 - Where can people follow you? Segments Trek Propaganda: Iconic Appalachian Trail Viewshed Officially Preserved After ATC’s Multi-Year Effort by Colleen Goldhorn QOTD: What are your predictions or hopes for 2024? Triple Crown of things you hoard Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Liz Thomas, known on trail as “Snorkel.” Liz has backpacked more than 20,000 miles, including an FKT on the AT, many trails internationally, and is likely the most experienced “urban hiker” on earth. We learn Snorkel’s top advice on how to pull big miles, her current gear favorites, what she considers to be the hardest hike in the US, how she advises to backpack often while keeping a desk job, and more. We also dive deep on Snorkel’s many urban hikes, which essentially amount to long-distance treks through some of the biggest cities in the US, including how she chooses her routes, which hikes have been her favorites, elements to avoid, and more. We wrap the show Badger drinking Chaunce’s toe juice, and yes that’s likely as gross as it sounds, how to stay safe in a lightning storm while in the backcountry, the Christmas gift we were most excited to receive or gift this year, the triple crown of holiday traditions, and an epic listener email. Badger + Chaunce Signed Book Package: Use code “LITTLEDONKEYGIRL” for $5 off and get a BPR sticker at store.thetrek.co. Vargo Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 20% off at vargooutdoors.com. CTUG: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at chickentrampergear.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. [divider] Interview with Liz “Snorkel” Thomas Snorkel's Instagram Snorkel's Website Treeline Review Time stamps & Questions 00:05:12 - Reminders: Watch us on YouTube, support us on Patreon, and suggest a guest through our form! 00:08:10 - Introducing Liz 00:09:30 - What’s your go to Big Three? 00:10:34 - How did you get your trail name? 00:12:40 - What was your first long hike? 00:17:17 - What work did you do at a field station outside Yosemite? 00:18:58 - What was going to an Ivy League school like? 00:21:30 - What was the process for getting a grant to hike the PCT? 00:24:20 - Do you have advice for someone who wants to hike a long trail during college? 00:26:00 - How do you backpack and keep your desk job? 00:33:50 - What is the hardest hike in the US? 00:35:56 - What’s your best pitch for urban hiking? 00:41:35 - What does camping in a city look like? 00:43:00 - What urban hikes have you done? 00:49:00 - Discussion about finding urban staircases and creating urban routes 00:53:00 - What was your favorite urban hiking experience? 00:54:58 - How do you go to the bathroom on an urban hike? 00:59:00 - Discussion about pee keeping your body warm 01:01:55 - Are there other notable themes you’ve designed urban hikes around? 01:03:15 - What are some standout moments you’ve had along urban hikes? 01:06:18 - What’s the list of urban hikes you’ve done? 01:09:14 - Tell us about your AT FKT in 2011 01:10:57 - What are your tips for someone who wants to increase their mileage? 01:13:25 - Is it hard to get excited for an urban hike with all your backcountry experience? 01:15:02 - What do you do as a solo hiker to keep your mind entertained? 01:17:41 - What midlayers stand out to you? 01:19:30 - If you had to get rid of a piece of gear, what would you cut? 01:22:50 - Any other gear item you’re especially excited about? 01:26:04 - What are the biggest lessons learned from gear reviews? 01:29:49 - What’s a gear item from another sport that’s underrated in thru-hiking? 01:31:09 - What do you like about alpaca over merino? 01:34:40 - What’s the most underrated trail in the US? 01:35:48 - Tell us about your close encounter with a grizzly 01:41:30 - Are there other conservation lessons learned? 01:42:29 - Do you foresee bear cans becoming required on the AT? 01:45:33 - What international trails have you done? 01:49:20 - Are there any tech gear items you’re excited about? 01:51:24 - Tell us more about the hiking you’ve done in Japan 01:58:35 - What gear category has the most room for improvement? 01:59:45 - What is your triple crown of hot takes? Segments Trek Propaganda: The Ultimate Guide to Lightning Safety for Thru-Hiking: Tips & Resources by Arielle Nardizzi QOTD: What Christmas gift are you most excited to receive or gift this year? Triple Crown of holiday traditions Listener Voicemails Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Nick Fowler. Nick went from 1-2 mile day hikes in 2019 to setting the self supported PCT FKT in 2023, with many learning lessons, mistakes, and miles in the four year span in between. We learn all about his experiences on the Hayduke, Pacific Northwest trail (which was another FKT hike for him), the Arizona Trail, and of course go deep on his PCT hike from this year. We also learn about how Nick is able to financially swing being basically full-time hiker trash, outlining how some specific entrepreneurial decisions and savings strategies enable him to dirtbag around the clock. Even if FKTs aren’t your jam, we think you’ll really enjoy this conversation, as we feel it does a good job of normalizing this extreme style of trekking. We wrap the show with how Zach endangered his family with a black widow, news of the removal of an iconic AT shelter, things that are normal at 3pm but terrifying at 3am, and the triple crown of drunk regrets. Badger + Chaunce Signed Book Package: Use code “LITTLEDONKEYGIRL” for $5 off and get a BPR sticker at store.thetrek.co. Vargo Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 20% off at vargooutdoors.com. CTUG: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at chickentrampergear.com. Interview with Nick “DJ” Fowler Nick's Instagram Nick's PNT book Time stamps & Questions 00:05:47 - Reminders: Get Zach and Chaunce’s signed book bundle by January 15th, support us on Patreon, and check out our new website! 00:08:05 - Introducing Nick 00:08:49 - Tell us your poop stories 00:15:20 - Discussion about shower frequency 00:19:20 - How did you go from a clean cut corporate guy to setting an FKT? 00:22:40 - What was the first big animal you encountered? 00:25:40 - What would you say to people who think FKT hikers are missing the point? 00:30:04 - What does a day of hiking look like emotionally? 00:34:00 - Tell us about peeing red 00:39:58 - What was the biggest breakdown you had on trail? 00:45:35 - Has not quitting been a theme across your life? 00:47:12 - What did you learn on the PNT that helped you on the PCT? 00:49:27 - What packing mistakes did you correct on the PNT? 00:52:40 - What’s your footwear system? 00:54:50 - Discussion about road walks and bushwacking on the PNT 00:55:50 - What do you commonly lose? 01:00:17 - Discussion about dealing with Tropical Storm Hilary 01:11:38 - What was your sketchiest moment of the Hayduke? 01:16:35 - How did you get your trail name? 01:18:20 - Discussion about footwear 01:26:50 - What type of pain did you deal with on a daily basis on the PCT? 01:30:30 - What are your strongest food cravings? 01:41:00 - Discussion about diet and food 01:42:45 - How much time did you have off between hikes and before the PCT? 01:43:40 - How did you transition from a regular job to full time hiking? 01:47:45 - What do you do for passive income? 01:51:28 - What steps did you take to feel confident enough to make these moves? 01:54:20 - What tips do you have for someone who’s interested in this topic? 01:59:10 - What ventures would you recommend people get into? 02:01:33 - What mental tools are you using to stay determined? 02:04:45 - Discussion about the classifications of FKTs 02:11:11 - When would you say enough is enough? 02:13:30 - Tell us about your book, Itch Segments Trek Propaganda: Appalachian Trail Landmark, Overmountain Shelter, to be Removed by Diane Duffard QOTD: What’s normal at 3pm but terrifying at 3am? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of drunk regrets 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Ryan Sylva, known on trail as Dirtmonger. Let me tell you, this one is an instant classic. Dirtmonger has so many miles under his trail runners that he’s lost count, but it’s comfortably deep into the 5-digit range. We learn about all the trails and routes Dirtmonger has tackled, including the PCT, CDT, Vagabond Loop, Low to High Route, the Great Basin Traverse, Sky Island Traverse, and more. But in addition to and likely more importantly, we go deep into the inspiration and philosophy behind Dirtmonger’s backpacking career, which sheds some really interesting new perspectives into this wild world of long-distance walking. This one will eventually be a two-parter, and we’re supremely confident that you’ll enjoy this first edition. We wrap the show by learning about the marathon for cake on the AT in Virginia, where we're hiding our FBI's most wanted paperclip, and I get another vote of confidence in my highly anticipated rumble with an alien. Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation.  Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer’s Permethrin Pump at REI. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Ryan “Dirtmonger” Sylva Dirtmonger's Instagram Dirtmonger's Blog Dirtmonger's Patreon Watch this interview on YouTube! Time stamps & Questions 00:06:20 - Reminders: Get exclusive content on Patreon, submit your poop story, and subscribe to Backpacker Radio on YouTube! 00:12:30 - Introducing Dirtmonger 00:17:00 - What does Shitmonger mean? 00:20:55 - Dirtmonger’s poop stories 00:29:11 - The ghost poop 00:31:28 - What is your hiking origin story? 00:45:40 - How did your family struggle with you being a backpacker? 00:49:30 - What advice do you have for thru-hikers struggling to complete a trail? 00:53:54 - Discussion about intentions 00:56:12 - Did you ever contemplate giving up on the dream? 01:02:15 - Do you experience any diminishing returns with your hikes? 01:06:03 - Where did you get the first sense of chasing a nontraditional challenge? 01:11:13 - How do you feel about other people following in your footsteps? 01:16:45 - How do you finance your hikes? 01:19:15 - What guidance do you have for turning a seasonal job into a career? 01:26:30 - Have you considered trying to monetize your hiking? 01:36:46 - Tell us about the Vagabond Loop 01:42:40 - What is the attraction of social hiking? 01:48:20 - Do you experience loneliness on trail? 01:51:25 - What are you afraid of? 01:55:15 - Tell us about the Great Basin Traverse 02:02:00 - How many hours of prep do you think you did? 02:06:42 - How do you handle finding water sources in the desert? 02:13:10 - Do you have a story about getting to a water source that didn’t work out? 02:15:35 - Do you find yourself taking chances for the thrill of problem solving? 02:19:00 - What was your biggest fuckup while hiking? 02:25:30 - Have you had any regrets? 02:28:05 - What’s your typical mileage and pace? 02:31:40 - What’s in your backpack? 02:41:15 - Tell us about the Sky Island Traverse 02:45:00 - What else did you do in 2016? 02:53:40 - What do you want listeners to take away from this interview? 02:57:54 - What are your tips for people new to backpacking? Segments Trek Propaganda: What Virginia Blues? 10 Can’t-Miss Landmarks in VA by Jamie Angle QOTD: You have 20 minutes to hide a paper clip before the FBI comes to your house to look for it - where are you hiding it? You must be able to retrieve it after they leave. Triple Crown of holiday movies 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Bennett Lee, an avid caver, backpacker, and photographer. This year Bennett attempted the calendar year triple crown, completing half of it, which he dubbed the Calendar Year Half Triple Crown. In typical backpacker radio fashion however, we swerve, spending much of our time chatting about the wacky world that is caving. We go deep, learning what draws someone into caving, why people in his community don’t call it spelunking, the nude calendars he’s shot in caves, some harrowing stories from situations gone awry (including a time where the search party had already begun the process of looking for his body), another time where he was caught in a collapsing cave next to a rattlesnake, an assortment of fun cave facts, including how someone’s sleep schedule changes when doing multi-day caving trips, and much more. You will leave this conversation delighted, entertained, and possibly at times, a bit disturbed - in the best way possible. We wrap the show with our very own Rachel giving a hilarious rundown on her Colorado Trail thru-hike / honeymoon, an unveiling of some new merch, just in time for the holidays, life tips for those who’ve recently finished a thru-hike, some things we wish were never invented, a triple crown of modern day luxuries that are tight, and a shoutout to one of our Patreon supporters who recently completed the CDT. Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation.  Badger + Chaunce Signed Book Package: Use code “LITTLEDONKEYGIRL” for $5 off and get a BPR sticker at store.thetrek.co. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Bennett “Tight Squeeze” Lee Bennett's Website Bennett's Instagram Bennett's Youtube Time stamps & Questions 00:07:10 - Reminders: Check out our Stay Feral shirts, our new website, and our application for the Trek’s editorial internship! 00:09:55 - Introducing Bennett 00:11:14 - What knot would you use for the rest of your life and why? 00:12:23 - How did you get started with caving? 00:15:50 - What’s the difference between caving and spelunking? 00:17:05 - What are the steps to exploring a cave? 00:18:25 - What does a cave rescue process look like? 00:20:10 - How do people find and explore new caves? 00:25:28 - What are the Leave No Trace aspects to caving? 00:29:21 - Story about discovering a new cave 00:35:54 - How do you keep continuing new passages in the cave? 00:46:21 - Discussion about free diving in caves 00:50:20 - How do you know when you reach the end of a cave? 00:51:40 - Is there any scanning technology that works in caves? 00:53:15 - Do you enjoy the adrenaline rush and dangers involved with cave exploration? 00:55:05 - Does backpacking seem easy or boring compared to caving? 00:56:55 - How do you fund caving? 00:58:45 - How do you regulate your circadian rhythm when you’re in a cave for long periods? 00:59:54 - Have you ever found human remains in a cave? 01:04:25 - Is it beneficial to have a smaller stature for caving? 01:05:15 - What’s the longest known cave in the US and can you hike through caves? 01:06:30 - How often do you see bats in caves? 01:08:52 - Tell us about being trapped in a tight cave with a rattlesnake 01:15:35 - Tell us about the nude caving calendar 01:19:14 - How did you get into backpacking? 01:21:40 - How much does the gear overlap between backpacking and caving? 01:23:02 - Tell us about your expedition in Alaska 01:32:55 - Tell us the Love Poop story (and submit your own!) 01:37:20 - Tell us the 50 miles for 50th birthday 01:41:08 - How has having Asperger's interfaced with your hiking? 01:42:50 - Do you have a triple crown of social situations you would consider the worst? 01:45:23 - Tell us about your Calendar Year “Half” Triple Crown 01:52:22 - Tell us about the Porcupine World War 01:58:10 - Discussion about Bennett’s shoes 02:00:00 - What’s next for you? Segments Rachel’s Colorado Trail Hike Trek Propaganda: Finished Your Thru-Hike. Now What? 9 Tips for Regaining Your Humanity by Danielle Krolewicz QOTD: What’s something you wish was never invented? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of modern day luxuries that are tight Plug Me 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Hailey Buckingham, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Ruth Morley. Ruth, in addition to being a Trek Blogger, is an avid backpacker, having trekked the GR5 through the south of France all the way through the Netherlands, the Florida Trail, the AT, the Buckeye Trail, and most recently a thru-hike of the Colorado Trail at the ripe age of 70! We learn about Ruth’s affinity for section hiking and how it compares to thru-hiking, we get an indepth run down of her time trekking the GR5, and Ruth dives deep into her passion for her whole food plant based diet, in which she adds zero salt, oil, or sugar to. Zach and Chaunce’s dietary guilt is at an all-time high in this episode. We wrap the show with an overview of the guy who hiked the AT and PCT carrying a 20-lb log over his shoulders, activities we didn't realize would consume so much of our time as adults, the triple crown of jingles, taglines, and mottos, and more. Vargo Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 20% off at vargooutdoors.com. Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Ruth Morley Ruth's Trek profile Ruth's Facebook page Time stamps & Questions 00:06:35 - Reminders: Check out our new website, support us on Patreon to see exclusive content, and come to the Denver hiker meetup THIS FRIDAY, December 1st! 00:10:10 - Introducing Ruth 00:11:11 - How did you originally get interested in the outdoors? 00:15:27 - What is the Mediocre Golf Association? 00:18:45 - Tell us about your son’s racing career 00:21:07 - Tell us about the GR5 00:24:36 - What are the basics for an American looking to hike the GR5? 00:29:20 - What was your favorite section of the GR5? 00:30:40 - What’s the northern section like? 00:33:25 - What are the other can’t-miss cultural experiences along the GR5? 00:35:39 - What percent of the time did you spend camping versus staying in hostels? 00:39:22 - Any standout stories from the GR5? 00:42:18 - Tell us about section hiking the AT 00:49:22 - Can you talk about sharing a motel room with other hikers? 00:52:10 - What set of injuries inspired your change in diet? 00:56:30 - What was your diet like before going plant-based? 01:00:30 - What are examples of common meals you eat? 01:08:20 - What are your go-to dehydrated recipes? 01:13:15 - What do you recommend for people interested in dabbling? 01:17:42 - What kind of wet foods work with your diet? 01:22:30 - What are the advantages of section hiking versus thru-hiking? 01:25:34 - What other tips do you have for older backpackers? 01:27:23 - Discussion about training methods 01:30:35 - Tell us about your first section on the Florida Trail 01:36:30 - Did you see any alligators? 01:37:33 - Did you consider skipping the road walk? 01:39:11 - Can you give us a sales pitch for the Buckeye Trail in Ohio? 01:43:55 - What were your favorite moments of the Colorado Trail? 01:47:33 - Did you deal with altitude sickness at all? 01:48:37 - What are your parting messages? Segments Trek Propaganda: Meet Shawn Mahoney, aka Log Man: The Thru-Hiker Who Carried a Log on the AT and PCT by Krysia Caldwell QOTD:  What’s something you didn’t realize was going to consume so much of your time as an adult? Plug Me: Barney “Scout” Mann and Shayla “Kiddo” Paradeis Triple Crown of jingles, taglines, and mottos 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Matt Berger known on trail as Sheriff Woody. If you like plants, oh boy, are you in luck today because Sheriff Woody is an experienced thru-hiker and a trained botanist who’s packed to the gills with fun flora facts. We learn about some of the standout plant species along each of the triple crown trails, how to know if a berry is edible or deadly, some of the rarest flowers along the triple crown trails, interesting facts about cacti, pine cones, and trees along these trails, and much, much more. Even if you aren’t a plant person, we are guaranteeing 100% satisfaction with this interview or your money back. We wrap the show with our favorite grocery impulse buys, a shoutout to Kelly Floro who recently completed the Pyrenean Haute Route, a Triple Crown of mid life crisis hobbies, our preferred noise to mask a public dump, and more. Vargo Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 20% off at vargooutdoors.com. Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation.  LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Darn Tough: Use code “DTLOVE-BACKPACKERRADIO” for 10% off plus free shipping at darntough.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Matt “Sheriff Woody” Berger Matt's iNaturalist profile Matt's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:51 - Reminders: Come to the Hiker Meetup on December 1 at Improper City, check out our new website, and watch this episode on YouTube! 00:10:09 - Introducing Sheriff Woody 00:11:26 - What’s your background? 00:13:00 - What’s your favorite bug? 00:15:35 - How did your parents feel about you luring insects into your yard? 00:16:45 - When did you decide to pursue horticulture and what is the career path like? 00:18:37 - What’s the difference between botany and horticulture? 00:20:55 - Tell us about your Appalachian Trail hike in 2012 00:26:30 - What alpine plants are there on the northern part of the AT? 00:30:41 - Do you have to study Latin during horticulture/botany training? 00:33:45 - What can you tell us about the plant naming process? 00:35:55 - What exciting plant species are on the AT but not on the other main trails? 00:40:00 - Discussion about improving blight resistance in American chestnut trees 00:44:37 - Can you tell us about the hemlock woolly adelgid? 00:47:06 - What are some of the worst invasive species along the AT? 00:50:40 - What are your favorite plants along the PCT? 00:54:15 - Tell us about poodle-dog bush 00:59:38 - What other plants have utility for thru-hikers? 01:03:24 - Do people harvest ginseng on the AT? 01:04:30 - What should people familiarize themselves with to be able to confidently identify a plant? 01:08:06 - Do you have a favorite berry along the PCT? 01:10:00 - What are some standout cactus species along the PCT? 01:12:38 - What are some fun plants that are easy to identify? 01:16:24 - What plants do you see in northern California? 01:18:33 - Is it hard for you to hike big miles if you’re looking at plants all the time? 01:20:18 - What type of camera do you normally use? 01:23:29 - Tell us about iNaturalist 01:32:00 - What are the standout plants along the CDT? 01:35:33 - How would you rank the Triple Crown trails according to plants? 01:37:20 - Tell us about pine cones 01:41:05 - What are your top 3 favorite plants you’ve seen while hiking? 01:43:44 - Fuck Marry Kill: American chestnut, pygmy poppy, alpine spring beauty 01:44:44 - Do you have a favorite tree? 01:47:39 - If you were a flower/tree/insect, what would you be and why? 01:49:33 - Are there any other tools or apps you’d recommend for aspiring naturalists? 01:52:27 - Tell me about your botany road trip 01:55:29 - Are there specific plants at risk from climate change along the Triple Crown trails? 01:57:42 - Where can people go to keep up with you? Segments Trek Propaganda: Kelly Floro's Pyrenean Haute Route Blog QOTD: What’s the most surprising impulse buy you’ve made while grocery shopping recently? Triple Crown of mid life crisis hobbies Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Brady Geilenfeldt. Brady, known on trail as Undies, thru-hiked the Colorado Trail this year. What makes Undies story especially interesting is that he is deaf. We learn all about Brady’s inspiring story, the incredible technology that is cochlear implants, what challenges a deaf hiker has to overcome, Brady's highlights from the CT, some of the non-obvious benefits of being a deaf hiker, Brady’s future trail ambitions, and much more. Brady is an inspiring young man and we think you’ll really enjoy this chat. We wrap the show with things we're convinced people pretend to enjoy, a triple crown of things that are the new black, some new poop news, and we finally have the details for our Denver holiday hiker meetup, and you are invited. Vargo Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 20% off at vargooutdoors.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Darn Tough: Use code “DTLOVE-BACKPACKERRADIO” for 10% off plus free shipping at darntough.com. Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com. [divider] Interview with Brady Geilenfeldt Brady's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:52 - Reminders: Join us at Improper City for the Hiker Meetup on December 1st! Apply to be a blogger or the Trek’s editorial intern. Check out our merch and support us on Patreon! 00:08:32 - Introducing Brady 00:12:40 - Tell us about your experience with deafness 00:15:10 - How did your mom get CMV? 00:16:50 - Were your parents on high alert knowing your mom had CMV? 00:17:55 - Would you trade being deaf for anything? 00:18:57 - How well does a cochlear implant approximate human hearing? 00:21:04 - How do the implants work? 00:24:10 - Did you ever learn American Sign Language? 00:26:00 - Are your other senses enhanced to make up for the loss of hearing? 00:27:10 - Does it help you sleep at night while backpacking? 00:28:14 - Are the implants comfortable to wear? 00:29:40 - Can you customize the volume based on different environments? 00:31:20 - Is it a satisfying feeling to take them off? 00:32:28 - Do the implants make hiking more interesting? 00:35:32 - What’s your hiking background and what made you decide to hike the CT? 00:37:18 - What was your longest backpacking trip prior to the Colorado Trail? 00:37:40 - What do you have to consider when planning for the CT? 00:40:28 - Is it disorienting to have only one implant in? 00:44:14 - Did you have any role models that inspired you beforehand? 00:46:20 - Do you have tips for making hiking more stimulating or being comfortable with yourself? 00:49:10 - Do you have to be concerned about the implants getting wet? 00:52:00 - Discussion about technological features or upgrades 00:53:40 - Do people ever use cochlear implants that aren’t deaf? 00:55:05 - Does the implant need to be replaced? 00:57:17 - Did deafness or CMV cause you to be immunocompromised? 00:58:30 - Discussion about losing balance and other impacts of deafness 01:01:18 - How did you handle the weather on the Colorado Trail? 01:04:38 - Did you have to be more careful when navigating while hiking? 01:07:00 - Do you want to do future hikes with a trail family? 01:08:03 - Do you have any standout stories from the CT? 01:10:09 - What’s the origin of your trail name? 01:14:54 - Would you do other things differently to prepare for a future hike? 01:17:50 - What ratio of rechargeable to disposable batteries did you use? 01:18:57 - How bad is it if you were to lose or break them? 01:21:22 - How did you handle health insurance? 01:23:55 - Have you had other people reach out since your hike? 01:25:00 - How does playing music interface with your deafness? 01:27:50 - Is there something to be done to make the outdoors more accessible for someone with implants? 01:30:41 - Are some insurance plans better than others? 01:32:33 - Is there an actionable step the listeners can take to improve the situation? 01:38:00 - Harvest General Store 01:40:15 - Brady’s parting words Segments Trek Propaganda: Broken on the AT: Gear That Breaks At 2,000 miles (And The Gear That Doesn’t) by Abby Evans QOTD: What are you convinced people are pretending to enjoy? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of things that are the new black Poop News Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S. [divider] Transcript: In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Brady Geilenfeld. Brady, known on trail as Undies, through-hiked the Colorado Trail this year. What makes Undies' story especially interesting is that he's deaf. We learn all about Brady's inspiring story, the incredible technology that his cochlear implants, what challenges a deaf hiker has to overcome, Brady's highlights from the CT, some of the non-obvious benefits of being a deaf hiker, including a great night of sleep, future trail ambitions, and much more. Brady is an inspiring young man, and we think you'll really enjoy this chat. We wrap the show with things we're convinced people pretend to enjoy, a triple crown of things that are the new black, some new hoop news, and we finally have the details for our Denver Holiday Hiker Meetup, and you are invited. But first, I am thrilled to introduce our next sponsor, which is a brand that has been a part of my pack and through hikes, dating back to 2017. Vargo creates lightweight titanium backpacking gear that is simple, innovative, and functional. The Vargo Bot 700 was with me every step of the way during my through hike of the PCT and every backpacking trip since. The Vargo Bot is extremely lightweight, weighing less than 5 ounces, and transfers heat quickly and evenly, making it the perfect pot for your cookware setup. But this just scratches the surface for why the Bot kicks so much eff… butt. Because the Bot features a screw top lid, it's the ideal option for the cold soakers of this world. Dump your dehydrated meal and the appropriate amount of water into the Bot, screw the lid closed, insert time, and voila, dinner is ready. Also, I can't count all the times I've benefited from having an additional 700ml of emergency water storage when encountering an unexpected dry spell. In other words, this piece is incredibly versatile and may very well be the last pot you ever buy. The Bot comes in a variety of sizes, including the brand new Bot XL, which is designed to perfectly fit a full-size canister inside with extra room for a stove. I'm also a user and fan of Vargo's utensils, titanium long-handle spoon for the win, and their titanium stakes. You simply can't beat titanium's combination of strength and being lightweight, and no one does it better than Vargo. Discount time, backpacker radio listeners, head to vargooutdoors.com and use coupon code backpackerradio at checkout to score a 20% discount. Again, the code is backpackerradio, all one word, at vargooutdoors.com. This is a limited time deal, so do not wait. Whether it's a car camping trip, a bout of trail magic, or the summer road trip, a quality cooler and drinkware is essential. That's why we're thrilled to introduce our next sponsor, Artic Outdoors. Artic Outdoors makes products engineered for two things, performance and durability. And unlike other coolers on the market, Artic's high-quality coolers and tumblers won't cost you an arm and a leg. Artic's 52-quart ultralight hard cooler made the trip from backpacker radio's headquarters in Golden, Colorado, to Trail A's in Damascus, Virginia, keeping our spin drifts, root beers, and blue ribbons perfectly chilled. As the name would imply, the ultralight cooler is 30% lighter compared to other premium hard-sided coolers, which means you can be the group's beverage hero without developing a hernia in the process. And compromising on weight doesn't mean you're compromising on insulation. With up to three inches of post-self-roam insulation, your ice will remain as ice for days. For more portable adventures, Artic Outdoors soft pack coolers are the ticket. These are lightweight, durable, and ready to travel with you, keeping your drinks cold for up to 24 hours while avoiding the mess thanks to two inches of closed-cell foam and puncture and tear-resistant lining. Lastly, Artic's drinkware keeps your blue ribbons cold or your morning coffee hot for the long haul, utilizing double-wall vacuum insulation. The BPR team rocked Artic tumblers throughout the muggy afternoons of southern Appalachia, enjoying refreshingly cold beverages along the way. Head to ArticOutdoors.com to get your premium coolers and insulated drinkware at a fraction of the price of the competition today. Welcome to Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek. Today is November 13th, World Kindness Day. Aww, that's nice. I am your co-host Zach Badger-Davis, sitting to my right is... Hi, I'm Juliana Chauncey, aka Chauncey... Reminders, yes. We have the deets, finally, for our Hiker Holiday Meetup Extravaganza Palooza Supreme. A-thon. Yes. This will take place, whatever I said previously, disregard that because I think a lot of the details have changed. You guys don't care about the reasons why. But this is going down on December 1st at Improper City in Denver, in Denver, not Golden, from 530 to 8 p.m. This will be co-hosted by Backpacker Radio slash The Trek and the CDTC, which means it'll be a fundraiser for them. We're going to have some sweet raffles, or as they say, door prizes. I had to look that up. Apparently, that's the vernacular for raffle prizes nowadays. Good hangs, solid vibes, memes. What else? Carnival barking. Carnival barking, yes. Sounds like there will be some of that happening. Give at least four drinks a chance and she will stand on a chair and yell at you. I haven't stood on a chair and yelled at Improper City yet, which is something that I'm excited to do. Yeah, let's see if they welcome us back after December 1st at 530 p.m. A couple other things quickly. One is if you're through hiking in 2024 and you want your journey featured on The Trek, we are currently accepting blogger applications. I did a link in the show notes. Lastly, this is the time of the year where we will likely be adding a new editorial intern to the team. This is a highly coveted position. We get lots of people reaching out for this, so if you're listening to this and you've got some serious editorial chops and you like long distance backpacking, head to the link in the show notes. Oh, also we are still selling our awesome vintage backpacker radio tees. We've gotten some nice compliments on them. Yes, we have. They look like Saved by the Bell goes outdoors. Yeah, or if you're slightly older, Miami Vice, if you're my age, both are sufficient. Yeah, I also think if you saw the Barbie movie, this would be like that in the form of a shirt and blue. There is pink hints. There's flavors of pink in there, but it's it's I could see it being worn as like a Ken costume. Yeah, I saw a couple people recommend or ask for us to turn these into sun hoodies, which I got to figure out. Where do we find a manufacturer? That's a good question, but maybe someday. OK, well, if you manufacture sun hoodies and you're listening to this slide in our DMS. Yes. Last thing is if you want to support the show and you want some additional backpacker radio content, head on over to our Patreon page, patreon.com slash backpacker radio, where we release a new episode the first Wednesday of every month. This current month's episode was a gift guide. We went through big ticket and small ticket items that you can either gift or be gifted in the holiday season, things that we've loved having as hikers and regular humans and as well as things that we wouldn't want or like, you know, some things to avoid if you want to give that thoughtful gift to a hiker, but also don't want to give them something that they're going to smile and say thank you for and then actually never use. Yes. To the non-backpacking gift recommendations, I tried my hardest to not make it too dad-centric and I think I failed. This will be a great one for anyone who wants to gift something to a hiker or who really likes being in the kitchen. Yes. Leave it at that. Or is training to be the all-time dad. Yeah. OK, we'll leave it at that. No more beating around the bush. Let's get right to today's interview with Brady Gielenfeldt. We'll figure out how badly I butchered that pretty soon. We are joined by today's guest, Brady Gielenfeldt, which I nailed the first time, I'm pretty sure. I'm sure the tape will say otherwise, who hiked the Colorado Trail this year in part to inspire people who are deaf or hard of hearing, that they are not limited by their abilities. Brady, thank you so much for joining us here on Backpacker Radio. Hey, it's great to be here. Yeah. Can we swing the mic a little bit closer your way? There we go. About that far from your mouth. How does that sound? Good. That sounds awesome. The closer the better. You can't be too close. Yeah. I would move yourself closer rather than close. Yeah. Typically, we do all this stuff before we hit record, but we're winging it here today. He brought us food. We got distracted and we brought him food. Yeah. It was a food exchange. Let's start there. Let's give a plug to this is your folks place, the Harvest General Store in Iowa, right? Yes, in Iowa. Yeah, they just do trade shows and stuff right now and they have a Facebook page. But I mean, really, yeah, they just go around doing those trade shows. They love it. Yeah. So we're about to bust open. There was a wide variety of goodies in this box. Chonce went with her top option, currently stabbing it open with the edge of her glasses. What do we have here, Chonce? This seemed the most on-brand for us, and this is freeze-dried gummy worms. I personally have been getting a lot of algorithm on socials showing me people freeze-drying skittles, gummies, things like that. And so this is right up my current algorithm. Yeah. They look like Cheetos. It looks unique. And I was unaware of freeze-drying candy up until about 10 minutes ago. So very excited to learn about this wild world. I will say the best part about this is seeing people's reaction, eating this for the first time. ASMR. Flavors. It tastes like, texture aside, it tastes just like a gummy worm. Tastes like jello. This is very interesting. Push it against the top of your mouth. Like, I don't like chewing these things. I like pushing them against the top of my mouth and letting them melt. If you just push it with your tongue against the top of your mouth, it does taste a little bit like jello. This is requiring a lot of unlearning because I'm expecting candy, but. All right. Take the red and push it against the roof of your mouth. I still got this. It's red jello. This is fantastic. Let me try the blue side now. I think I'm liking it more with each bite. The first one was a little bit of an exploration for me. I will say out of all the options, the gummy worms are not my favorite. What's your go-to? My go-to is definitely the skittles. They do the wild berry skittles and those ones are really good. The smoothie ones are awesome. Maybe we'll bust those out halfway through. Yeah, we could do that. I don't hate this. I feel like this. Setting myself up here. I'll just follow through. It kind of reminds me of corn dogs. Corn dogs? This is important. When I take a bite of a corn dog, I don't know if I want to continue that journey, but then after it sits there for a moment, I'm like, I need another bite. After you've sat there and you're like, where's that taste? I want that taste back. I feel like I can get a lot of miles out of these. It's the perfect intersection between candy and chips. It has a hearty chip texture to it. Very crunchy, as you could hear through the mics, but still tastes exactly like the flavor is exactly what you'd expect from a gummy worm. It's very interesting. I've never even had anything approximate to what I just put in my mouth. That's what she said. I feel like these would be good in shots. Oh, sure. You want to get the party started? Me saying shots are out for the last segment. Cool. These are fun. Okay. Let's talk about some backpacking stuff. The intro is short because that is essentially what we know about your journey. I'm assuming the bulk of the conversation for today. Give us the background because we've been chatting here for the last 10, 15 minutes or so. The conversation has been very easy. I wouldn't expect that you were hard of hearing. Give us your level or introduce your level of deafness and maybe any tech that's involved. I guess just give us the full background. Yeah, I can give you the full rundown. I was born with CMV. That's a congenital men-something virus. It's a very long word. I always butcher it. I was born with that. That basically meant that I could have been deaf, could have been blind, could have been anything. It could have been missing a leg. It turns out that I was just deaf. My mom, they knew what to look for since they had tested for CMV when my mom was pregnant with me. She was a nurse and she got pregnant. Well, she didn't get pregnant by one of her patients. She got CMV from one of her patients. She just kept on doing what she was doing. They knew what to look for. I was born and I passed a newborn hearing screen. At the time, the newborn hearing screen was just you look at the baby and you scream at it and see if it reacts. Any baby's going to pass a newborn hearing screen. Is that because the volume is loud enough that even if they are hard of hearing, it's still reaching a decibel that they can perceive? Yeah, that they register it basically. That's what they were basing it off of at the time. I was born in 2000. It was not that long ago. I slept through my first fireworks and my parents were like, well, no newborn baby is going to sleep through fireworks. They brought me home and sat me down in the living room and banged a bunch of pots and pans in front of my face. I didn't do anything. Didn't react. They were like, yeah, we have a deaf baby. They brought me back. Were they that calm about it? No. Guaranteed not. I know my mom. They probably sprinted to the hospital. Sure. They did that and then I did a couple of hearing screens and I would pass them again, but then they finally did a sedated one where I was hooked up to a machine and then that showed that I was fully deaf. I got my first cochlear implant when I was 13 months old and my second one when I was five years old. Before you go too far, because I'm going to have questions, cover my questions. I just know it. How did your mom get CMV? How does it get transmitted? Just through contact. She was working on a patient. She's an ER nurse and yeah, I think it was just through contact of, I think it was bodily fluids. So basically, if you're pregnant and you get CMV, then it just goes directly to the child. So she was pregnant when she got it? Yeah. It's not like she could get it and then she goes deaf? Yeah. That can happen? No, no, no. Oh, it can? Okay. Thank God. Yeah, no, that would not be the case. So it just, it went directly to me basically and she didn't see any of the repercussions of CMV. And so I still have it and I still live with it, but I can't transmit it to anybody. And so it's dormant, I guess. How did she know at the time that she contracted CMV? She didn't know right away because the doctor came in and was like, hey, this patient has CMV. And my mom was like, well, I guarantee I already have it now since I've already been working with the patient. So. How could the patient give it to your mom, but you can't give it to someone else? That's a good question. I think it's because it really develops predominantly when you're in the womb versus like, you know, you get it in the womb and it's in that development stages. I'm not a doctor, so, but that's my interpretation of it, I guess. And so, yeah, it just, that means I'm, you know, immunocompromised. I, everything else that comes along with being deaf, I can get into that in a second. But yeah, that's about it with CMV. Were your parents on the lookout for, were they on high alert knowing that she had contracted CMV when she was pregnant, thinking that there was a high likelihood that something could have gone awry? Yeah. I mean, they, the doctors literally had like percentages of the different types of disabilities that I could have. And so they had no idea. And so when I was born and I was just, you know, looked normal, you know, they were like, wow, that's amazing. That's a miracle. And so that was a really cool experience for them to go through. And then also, you know, in a way, it was kind of one of the best of the worst situations. Let me know if this sounds insensitive, because for me, it's purely curious, but I could see how this might not come out how I want it to knowing the array of different things that could have happened. Are you, would you trade being deaf for a different option? Or do you think that like, it's a really manageable, like, I don't know, like, would you trade it? I don't think so. I actually don't think I would trade it for anything. Because for one, I take them out when I sleep, you know, like nothing wakes me up noise wise, you know, I mean, I guess I'm sensitive to vibrations. That's actually how I wake up every day is my bed shakes and it connects to my alarm. And yeah, when I have a headache, I can just take them out, don't have to deal with anything, don't have to listen to anything. So I mean, there are some perks of it. I wouldn't change it now. Have you ever taken them out in a relationship when someone's mad at you? That didn't go over very well. That's amazing. That's the ultimate talk to the hand. Notting along. Yeah. So you mentioned that you wake up to an alarm that vibrates. Is this like an alarm specifically for people, for deaf people? Yeah. Yeah. Actually there's, I've had friends buy it just because they're heavy sleepers. I am ahead. You caught my interest when you said the bed vibrates. Yeah. It's just like a little toggle thing. I don't know. It's probably like three and a half, four inches in diameter. And like, you just put it underneath your mattress and it's just like, it's a sonic vibrator. Yeah. It's like a good April Fool's joke for Garrett. I don't know how to phrase this question. So you got the, your first cochlear implant when you said when you were 13 months old. Yes. And then the second one when you were five. Yes. Do you know how well the implant approximates normal human hearing? Like are you functioning at a hundred percent of what the average person functions at? Is it 75%? Can you, like, what is that, what is it supposed to approximate? Yeah. I mean, they basically say that I hear 15,000 tones and you guys hear 30,000 tones. So I guess that's more on a tonal level, but I don't even know. What does that mean? Like just in terms of different arrays of frequencies. Yeah. If you're listening to music, are you hearing half as much of the range as somebody else? Kind of, it's more like along the lines of, you know, I can't hear like white noise or like the, I guess it's the range of frequencies that I can hear. Okay. So like if it's super deep or like a whale call, that's probably not in my range to be able to hear. Got it. Or if it's like a dog whistle, I know most people can't hear that, but something along those high frequencies, I can't hear. Got it. So there's like that specific range. We used to make that our cell phone ring tone in I would say ninth grade because there was a dog whistle. It was a high pitched frequency because the age that your teachers are, like you start to not be able to hear those high sounds, but when you're super young, you can. I thought you were going to say you knew that the phone was ringing because the dogs were barking. No, no, no. People would set their phones to it because the teachers couldn't hear it. That's funny. Yeah. Okay. So, okay. So you hear at half the frequencies of the average human hearing, but for like this conversation, are you hearing everything perfectly normal? I mean, as normal as I can tell. I was going to say, because like I said, I haven't missed a beat. The conversation hasn't missed a beat since you walked in here. And I didn't know what to expect. And to see that your hearing functions at such a high level is just such a pat on the back to what we're able to achieve with Western medicine and all the technology and everything. If you take out the implants, can you like not hear at all? Zip, nothing. How do they make that work? I know you're not a doctor. We've established this, but how do they make that work? Like how do they just create something where there's nothing? I know that people listening can't actually see this, but so, I mean, what I have here is it's a cochlear implant. So I took my left side off. And so right now I can't hear anything on my left side. And so this part that kind of twists off, that's the battery. And so there's a processor that basically takes sound and it's basically like a camera microphone. And so you know how, when you take a video and you like hear the wind, like it's like, and it's annoying, right? I hear that. And so it's basically kind of like just a camera mic, but then this processor basically transfers those sound waves into electrodes, which are just little electrical pulses. And that goes through a magnet that's actually inside my head. And that magnet has a coil that runs through the cochlea. And so since my deafness comes from like not being able to hear, right? So basically what I'm getting at is I don't have the actual like hairs in the cochlea that stimulate the auditory nerve like you guys do. And so that coil that runs through the cochlea like stimulates it with those electrodes, like it would for you guys with those hairs. Two part question. One, based on what you just said, if I were to put that on, it wouldn't, like I wouldn't hear anything crazy because I don't have the part inside, right? Yeah, nothing would happen. Do you watch Harry Potter? Oh, I love it. The second time I've done this, Zach's out of this conversation. Is this like Fred's like extendable ears? Like could you take the implant and put it under like a door somewhere and go away and it would still go to the part in your head and you could hear really good? Like, can you eavesdrop on people with it? Yeah, actually, if I click on my phone, it connects to my phone and I can turn on live listen and then it just like connects right to my CIs and whatever's going through the microphone on the phone goes directly to my CI. So I could set my phone on this table, go to the other room and I'd hear everything you guys are saying. I feel like this is a superpower. Like this is like CIA shit. Yeah, I do think that's a feature you could do with your phone as well. And that's not as cool. I'm not hearing it in my head. True. You have to use the air pod. So yeah, I guess being able to disguise it, but I am blown away by the tech of that. Just hearing your explanation of it and the fact that you're able to function totally normally with it is amazing. Like, do you feel very blessed that this technology? Because how long has this been around? I mean, there were people who were getting implanted, you know, in the 80s and 90s, but you know, the technology just wasn't there. You know, I was one of the youngest in Iowa to be implanted. And so this was it was basically right when the FDA approved it. Like my mom was on the gun. She went for it. Yeah. Well, she sounds like she's on top of her stuff based on the testing and everything alone. Yeah. And the dehydrated candy. And the dehydrated candy. Wow. So did you ever have to learn ASL or was it just, I'm good with these? Yeah, I did ASL for a little bit. I did it until, I don't know, probably I was roughly kindergarten age and I stopped because I did auditory verbal therapy. And they actually went to the level to where like my audiologist, my auditory verbal therapist, I guess, would make me sit on my hands so that like I wouldn't use my hands to talk. And I just wanted to talk anyway. Like I just stopped using sign language. And my parents were like, well, why are we going to invest the time in learning sign language when he just wants to talk? Yeah. You know, so. So the videos that everyone has seen via social media, always a tearjerker when deaf people get an operation where they can hear like their spouse or their parent or whatever it might be for the first time, is that the operation that they're getting the cochlear implant? Yeah, most of the time. Yeah. So cochlear implant is that like cochlear is a brand. There can be other brands that they do. So there's like Advanced Bionic and that's another popular one. A few other ones that aren't as popular, but cochlear is definitely like the main brand. If someone can't hear and they mainly communicate using ASL, are they someone who hasn't tried a cochlear implant yet or do they not work on certain types of deafness? Yeah, it depends on how you become deaf. That's kind of why I stuttered there for a second when I said, you know, my deafness comes from CMB because if you have damage of the auditory nerve, then the cochlear implant is not going to work at all because that auditory nerve has to be able to sense that there's stuff in the cochlea. And so there's, there are people who have damaged auditory nerves and they're just kind of out of luck. So I don't know, I assume this is true, but this is something that I'm citing as an internet fact that when somebody loses a sense or doesn't have a sense to start with, that the other senses are enhanced. Is that one, an accurate description and two, do you feel like that's true for you? Like, do you have a superior sense of smell or because that you've had the cochlear implant at such a young age, do you feel like you haven't missed out in that capacity? Yeah, that's a great question. I get that one a lot, actually. You know, I do have glasses. I never wear them, but, and I don't think my sense of smell is supersonic or anything. You know, yeah, I don't think my senses are really all that great, to be honest. But yeah, I think it has something to do with the fact that I had my cochlear implants at such a young age. And so I did mention earlier that I was like really sensitive to vibrations when I'm sleeping. So that might be part of the sense that I'm gaining from losing my deafness. Yeah. So, but other than that, yeah, I mean, I don't think I really do. Okay. Does it pivot into backpacking quick? We're going to probably go on a lot of side tracks here, but does it help you sleep at night when you're on trail to be able to take them out? Because then you can't hear like the eerie sounds of nature, or does it make it worse because then you can't hear the eerie sounds of nature? A little bit of both. What I mean by that is because, you know, sometimes, okay, I'll be camping by myself. I do a lot of that and I just take them out and, you know, it just makes me not even think about it because, you know, if there's a bear outside my tent, he just jumps on by. I'm not going to care unless he comes into my tent. That's the other thing that kind of scares me is, you know, I'm in my tent and then a bear comes on in. I'm not going to know until it's on top of me. So, yeah. I think at that point, you're just like, well, God wanted me to go. Yeah, I'd rather not know at that point, I think. Yeah. So I think I lean more on the side of like it helps because then I'm just not thinking about it. Yeah. I don't even like using earplugs because I'm so sensitive to having the feeling of something in my ears, especially when I'm laying down on something. Do you actually feel like, are the implants uncomfortable for you or have you been using them for so long that it just feels second nature? Yeah, it kind of feels second nature. You know, like when I don't wear them, I almost feel naked, to be honest. It's like it's kind of the same concept of glasses. Because I'd imagine it would be so nice to have the option to just turn off all, especially on a windy night. It's not even necessarily the animal sounds, just like the constant inconsistent, almost white noise. That's kept me up so many nights to have the option to opt out of that. It sounds actually pretty sweet. Well, when I camp, like a lot of the times at night, if I can't fall asleep, I'll put in my earplugs and I'll just put them on noise canceling. Like I'm not even listening to music. I just use the noise canceling to try to help with like the twig crack sounds. Yeah. You know, I had people tell me multiple times that they loved camping next to me because then they could just roll around all they wanted in their tent and didn't have to worry about waking anyone else up. That's a good point. Yeah. I will say I can't, on the AT, I hiked for about 600 miles with someone who was deaf and it was hilarious. Like we had a great time. A lot of times it was kind of that where it was like, I know I'm not bothering you, but some of it was just like funny. Like he had a really great sense of humor and I think it just added like an extra element for us. Do you ever like go to a concert and turn the volume up? Because I'm getting to the age now where concerts are too loud for me to be able to control that. You're taking the baby headphones off the twins. To be able to control the volume at a concert, to be like, yeah, turn this racket down a little bit. Is that something that you ever do? I imagine you're controlling the volume on a regular basis. Actually, there's a different settings I can use for different like actual environments. So like when I'm on at a concert, there's a music setting that I can set it to. Wow. And then like if I'm, is that just turning the volume down or what other changes? Yeah. It's just kind of like changing the EQ a little bit to like optimize for music, I guess. Yeah. My audiologist loves it, but I will say the most tragic thing to happen for me at a concert is they die. Oh no. Has that happened? Yeah. Multiple times. Yeah. What concerts? There was a Def Leppard concert I went to in high school. That's a bad one to have. And so you haven't gotten to like the best songs yet because they're not closing and you can see it happen. Oh no. Yeah. At that point you're just people watching, huh? Yeah. Just people watching and then like you're just standing there like, well, this is fun. Do you keep like a set of spare batteries? Like can you, is that a thing? Yeah. I typically bring a spare set, but those of course are the times that I forgot. Yeah. Oh my God. How does one charge get you? Typically it'll get me like 15 hours. Okay. So it's just like, you know, if it's just been a long day, it'll be towards the end of the day that they'll die. Yeah. Is it like, like, let's say you go home. Is it like taking your bra? I know you don't probably take your bra off when you get home, but is it like taking your bra off to take them off? And like, I would imagine probably speak ASL to the people like in your home life to be able to not have to use them for a while. Or is it not like that kind of like, feeling that I'm attributing to taking a bra off? I will say that is something that I would do a lot towards like the first two weeks of school. So like, because if you think about it throughout the summer, you're not really intently listening. You're kind of just doing your own thing. You're having fun, right? And so when you write, when you go back to school, you have to like spend eight hours a day, like really trying to listen. And like for me to actually listen to things and hear things, it takes a lot more effort because I have to like differentiate between different sounds because a lot of the stuff comes in at the same volume. So my brain is kind of adjusted to just kind of focusing in on what I wanted to focus in on. By that, you mean like every background noise. Like if somebody shuffles their chair or you can hear the wind or whatever, a fan blowing, like all that's coming in at the same volume. So it's, you have to be able to discern what you're actually paying attention to. Yeah, kind of. Yeah. I mean, more what I'm getting at is like, you know, fluorescent lights. If it's like above me and it's like buzzing, this one's fine. But, and like someone's trying to talk to me right here and they're both coming in at the same volume. It doesn't, my brain doesn't differentiate it. Yeah, that makes perfect sense. So does this make hiking like the Colorado trail or any trail, does this make just like what might be a mundane making miles part of the hike, like just super wild for you? Cause I imagine being able to hear the leaf cracks, the like tree breeze, like every little thing at the same volume. I just watched all the twilights this past weekend and when Bella got turned to a vampire, she was going through the woods and she was seeing everything super hyper-focused and that was wild. Would it be like that where you're just like hiking and you're just like, whoa, to everything? Cause it's all coming in louder. Or is that just in my head? You know, I think that is, when I was younger, that was a thing. Because then I was like experiencing things for the first time, you know, and being able to like hear different sounds of nature when I was a lot younger was, you know, it was an experience, you know, I wish I could do that again, you know, but yeah, I don't really think so anymore. Just because, you know, I've had these for so long and I've been accustomed to it. It's just, it's just my normal life now. Is there an auditory setting for something like being in the wilderness? Like you mentioned how there's like a music setting. Is there something for being outdoors? I could make a setting. Yeah, probably good. Just basically turn the, you know, higher frequencies down a little bit on my phone and yeah, basically I could. I never have, I usually typically just stay with my everyday setting just because I'm used to it and that's basically the only reason. If you know the first thing about hiking socks, then you are already aware of our next sponsor. Darn Tough is the most trusted sock in hiking and the number one hike sock in the USA. Family owned and made in Vermont, Darn Tough offers the most durable socks guaranteed. In fact, their warranty is famous with hikers because they're unconditionally guaranteed for life. 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Again that code is dtlove-backpackerradioatdarntough.com to get 10% off plus free shipping. This deal is only good for a very limited time so do not wait. Okay let's talk hiking. Oh yeah. So when did the Colorado trail get put on your map? How long have you been hiking? Give us the full like outdoors background. Yeah I've just grown up being outdoors and my mom has taken me out on little day hikes when I was younger and growing up camping. My dad always took me camping a lot when I was growing up and yeah I've always enjoyed it and then I went to college and my buddies and I would go to the boundary waters every summer for a canoe fishing trip and that was always really fun. Did you go to school in Iowa, Minnesota? Yeah I went to school at Iowa State University. Go clones. They've had some good running backs and you weren't there during the Brice Hall years were you? Yes I was. Yeah he's killing it in the Jets. Yeah he's great. I'm watching the 49ers with Brock Purdy right now. Iowa State as well? Yeah. Oh I didn't know that. Yeah that's why. Yeah 49ers have a bad night yesterday or the day before. They've lost a couple games but they're still really good. Just making myself feel better. It was not a good game yesterday. Anyway sorry. Okay so boundary waters in college and then when did the CT get put on your map? Oh yeah so I had a buddy I was just work so I'll back up a second here so I was working in Iowa and I was just I was right after I had graduated college and I had a couple buddies who just went off and you know took like a gap year or I even what really inspired me was I had a buddy who did the PCT and I was like man yeah I really want to do something like that and that really is what inspired me and so I was just like I just googled places in Colorado to go hiking and that's literally all it was and then the Colorado trail came up. Colorado trails. Yeah so what was your longest backpacking trip prior to this? Actual backpacking trip prior to that one would have been like a week in the boundary waters but that was canoeing so I wouldn't even consider that backpacking. Sure. I'd say it was probably just a weekend trip. Okay. Like one or two weekend trips. So what considerations did you have to make for the Colorado trail that maybe someone who didn't have deafness wouldn't have to consider? Like what was it like for you to plan for this trip that set it apart from canoeing or anything different? Yeah I think it was really the battery situation. Trying to figure out how I'm going to keep these things charged because yeah because when I was in the boundary waters I had them dug out because it was so cold and like I forgot to sleep with them. That was a rookie mistake. Always sleep with your batteries. That's very important. Yeah. So is it like your phone where if you are in like my phone it'll do it when I'm at too high of an elevation and it's like exposed and there's cold the phone will just die even if it's fully charged. Yeah. Is it like that with your batteries because they're not really protected much from the elements in your ears. Yeah no that's totally that same thing. Yeah that same concept like I was talking more on like my disposable batteries. The ones I have on right now are my rechargeable batteries. Oh. And so I had a little fob that I could like connect to the portable battery charger and that's what I predominantly used but it broke on me and so I had to use the actual batteries and they dutted out in the boundary waters because it was so cold and that was one big thing that I was really worried about for planning and then yeah it actually happened to me again on the Colorado Trail and I just ended up having another resupply box that had extra batteries in it and so it worked out but I almost went a week without being able to hear on trail. So it gets so cold that the battery just breaks like it's not you can't warm it back up and recharge it. Yeah the so they're like zinc air batteries is what they're called and like when they're exposed to a certain temperature then it just like duds out. Hmm. Yeah it's super weird. When you're talking about disposable batteries are you talking about just like our standard AAAs or are there like how you just unclicked that battery from it? Is it that but you just toss it after each use? Yeah it's kind of like that so there's like a little sheath that comes out and then it holds you know those little like little little batteries. Yeah like the watch ones? Yeah kind of like those that's basically what they're used. So the disposable parts that little circle battery. Yeah. Got it. Yep. So what was it like you said it was a were you a week without proper battery for the? I almost was a week without it but then. It happened to happen at the your resupply. Yeah then I happened to find them at the bottom of my resupply box. Got it. Like thank you. Yeah so did you go imagine something like a half day from the time that it broke to get to town to actually get your resupply? Yeah actually one of them died and all the other so I had my right one which is my favorite one because I had it first and so I favor that side more and so I had that one working and then no more batteries left and then my left one was dead so I'm like well crap I know I have half a day before I can't hear at all. Is it really disorienting for it to only work in one ear because uh you know Apple AirPods sometimes the like the old ones like one of them just won't charge even if it's sitting in the dock so I've been at the gym before where I'm listening to music through one AirPod and for me it's really distracting like I feel like my workout sucks just because I'm so thrown off by having the inconsistent audio is that I imagine for you it's significantly worse. Is it pretty distracting for it only to be registering audio on one side? You know for like the first second it is and then it kind of just goes back to just all right well I know that that's the only side that sounds coming from so I got to tilt my head a little more that way and just kind of unconsciously adjust but yeah I mean other than that yeah I mean it's it just really does suck when that happens in inconvenient times like a concert. How do you handle that when it's on trail because there's a quote I was trying to look it up quick enough but there's a quote from a book I've mentioned on here countless times Spark the Revolutionary New Science Between Exercise and the Brain I highly recommend it still great book but they talk about people that are I think it was in this book they talked about it people that are left alone like to their own thoughts and how a percentage that's higher than I would have expected of these people would rather be like subjected to mild electric shocks than left alone with their own thoughts and like no other noise for you know a day longer you know it was 15 minutes I think is what the study was it was super small and it basically was just going to like back this evidence that like people aren't comfortable spending time with themselves like in their own thoughts that sort of thing to to lose hearing on a trail and to have to go like a day two days even when you were talking about the canoeing trip however long that was before getting it back how is your mental like overall wellness adjusting to I mean I assume in these settings where they're doing these studies they have the choice like I can quit the study I can leave the room I can go hear things and I've seen people on trail where they haven't talked to anyone in like five days and they look different how how do you see that happen and take something like that that happens to you on trail and a what does it do to you mentally and b how do you combat not being able to flip that back on yeah it's a really interesting thing because you know there's weekends that I'll go camping and I'll just not have messy eyes on and for me it's a place that I can really just think things through and be by myself and so I actually do enjoy that time and I you know I'm an introvert I'm an extrovert you know I guess I'm a little more of an introvert now just since COVID and everything else you know I do like being on my own now and just kind of taking them off and being in my own little world because that's really what it is I'm in my own little world and so I guess like on a trail sense you know it does get a little scary at first because then you're like when the first time that it happened where like they died on trail and I was just like almost a day without being able to hear outside I was just constantly like panning my surroundings just constantly because you know I don't know if there's another hiker coming along I don't know if there's you know I'm gonna run come up on something that might not be very friendly so yeah there's definitely times that it is a little scary but I've become accustomed to it. To that question did you have anyone that you could reach out to as a resource prior to the CT who was deaf that you could ask these questions to? I had nobody I just kind of figured it out figured out as I went nobody I knew who was deaf had ever done anything like this I guess and so I just I'm a big fan of just going for it. It's a good attitude. Is there any sort of community Facebook group whatever platform it might be where you have access to other people where you could ask this question and you're like hey has anyone done long-distance backpacking and everyone's just crickets? Yeah I mean there's actually a couple different Facebook groups where there's you know families who have cochlear implants they can like the parents can talk on there and I actually grew up attending a cochlear implant family camp and so I met a lot of people from all over the United States who also had cochlear implants because you know growing up in Iowa small town Iowa you're not going to have anybody in a 100 mile radius who's also deaf. You mentioned before we hit record that your graduating class was 23 people? 28. 28. No short you those five people yeah so you get a small town. What was the population of your town? Oh probably like a thousand people okay yeah it's small yeah it's pretty small I mean it was literally yeah like 30 minutes away from Des Moines. Are there any trail specific groups like Facebook groups that are long-distance focused for people that have like hearing disabilities? No not that I know of that's a good idea though I might do that tonight. Well I mean I hiked with Mr Perfect and he was deaf and then he had a friend that we spoke to several times that wasn't hiking but she came to trail day so I had met her too and I know there's a few others that have like come across the radar but I think that would be a great resource for like you guys to have with each other. Just before we move too far off the your your implants die while hiking how do you handle that topic? A lot of things that you'll hear when people aren't thriving at a long-distance hike like a lot of it comes down to all the alone time right like there's so much time with your own mind there's so much time where you're not stimulated by other things and I think when we're just constantly fed just like social feeds to scroll through content here and there a tv on in the background that's where like you start to see people like I mentioned the one who hadn't talked to someone for five days where they just seem unwell right like they're not doing good and I know that can bring a lot of people off trail as someone who will go weekends where you just take them out and actually enjoy it do you have tips for people for hiking without sounds to keep them stimulated while hiking or to make it seem less jarring for them like are there things they can do that make it better if they're not one that usually thrives in that setting? Yeah I mean I would say first off you gotta like your inner monologue you know you gotta be best friends with your inner monologue because otherwise it's gonna be a battle you know because if you aren't best friends with your inner monologue then you're gonna be just you know fighting each other and really what it comes down to is are you comfortable by yourself and if you're kind of uncomfortable in those settings and you know you just kind of gotta go back to you know why does it make you uncomfortable because there's probably a reason and there's probably something deeper that stems from that. How did you get comfortable with yourself? I assume based on my this is based on me but I assume not everyone's born comfortable with themselves I assume it takes effort assuming you're not just naturally comfortable with yourself how do you get there? Oh man that's a tough one. That's a deep question. That's very deep. Now you have to give us therapy. Making it easy for Zach's follow-up. I don't know it just seems like you're doing really well with it. Yeah well I appreciate it I appreciate it yeah I mean I um what I kind of did was I just you know took it step by step you know because I first day that happened to me and I just kind of you know I couldn't do anything about it you know I didn't have my garment yet and so you know that would happen a lot growing up you know I'd be at school and they would die and I wouldn't have batteries I have to go the rest of the day without being able to hear and so I guess just that those little moments of exposure of you know have being forced to be by yourself in your own little world that kind of culminated to an extended period of time that can happen. So like doing a shakedown hike but like a quiet yeah shakedown like a yeah like do do little shakedown hikes basically where you like maybe first day you go by yourself and then the second day you have a friend that comes out and meets you um that's that'd be a good way to do it or vice versa where you go out with two people and then you just you stay an extra day by yourself. I was thinking even smaller like just sitting on the couch without using my you know like before you even go outside just sit there and don't touch the phone for an hour you know yeah yeah yeah definitely don't touch the phone. Do you have to worry about them getting wet like is it a concern if it's raining outside? Oh yeah yeah yeah it's like they're more water resistant now but yeah back in the day like you had to take them off like it was super sensitive to water and one thing I'll say about that camp that I grew up going to is they had a pool party every year and if you imagine this scenario where you put a bunch of deaf people into a pool and they don't have waterproof stuff yet the lifeguards are gonna love you because they're blowing their whistles they're doing all that they can and you no one in the pool is even listening to you they can't hear you and so I mean like it's just crazy to see how technology has advanced because you know when you go to that camp now everyone has their waterproof stuff on and so like yeah now it's a little more waterproof or resistant than it was. What areas would you like to see improvement with the tech like you mentioned that it's advanced from like a waterproofness standpoint what areas do you see it could potentially still have room for improvement? Oh yeah I mean it's improving every year there's another upgrade that I could get and so basically what they're doing with their new upgrade now is you can go to an airport and it'll automatically connect to the bluetooth there and they'll tell you like when you're boarding and all that and you can connect to any bluetooth device basically. Can someone hack your mind then? I hope not. Can I just like how the airport would bluetooth to your sounds can I bluetooth to it and be like I'm in your head you know like is that a possibility? I'm not saying it's crazy I'm saying it's scary. I feel like that's very possible. Yeah yeah that's definitely possible I don't know I hope not but uh that'd be scary. Are you excited about those advancements or is that kind of like freaky because that kind of freaks me out a bit? Yeah I mean I'm excited because I mean they're doing it in the right mind I hope so. Yeah it seems out of kindness. Yeah I mean out of kindness I hope but yeah I mean other than that I mean I don't know because like it seems like each model that they make it gets smaller and smaller and they actually have one now where it's without the actual processor that goes on your head but the magnet and it's just the little magnet it's like that big. That's interesting because I'm thinking of this from the standpoint of like just getting you to the point where you can hear like the normal person the person with normal hearing but what you're describing are enhancements that are even beyond what somebody with that level of hearing has. I guess it opens up a whole train of ideas for ways that it could you could be enhanced beyond you mentioned being able to know when you're boarding but there's probably infinite possibilities in that standpoint. Yeah tons I mean like it would be really cool to just have like a little like basically you don't even have to wear your processor every day but it's like all internal then you like wear your processor to charge it kind of like air charge or like you know you have your little pod that you set your phone on and it automatically charges without having to plug in like that'd be kind of cool. Yeah because I remember for a while sorry to cut you off Jones but you're probably more relevant than mine. For a while the buzzword was augmented reality and we're seeing this now with like Google Glass and now Apple's got this too about like the way that you visually interface with the world and it giving you more context than you would otherwise have. From an auditory standpoint thinking of hiking like if you heard like a bird call and that's what I was saying about nature being wild. Yeah being able to have the implant be like oh that is the blue-footed booby. Oh that'd be so cool. That's that goes back to your Tony Stark stuff where you wanted the Iron Man suit. Totally. That's a feature the Iron Man suit. Well I was gonna ask on the same realm of wild like if there's any upgrades that have been made yet where it can hear different languages and it still transmits English to you. No there hasn't been one of those but there has been one I actually really don't like this setting. I currently have it but I don't have it turned on and what it does is it's called like zoom and so if there's like a crowd of people around me and I face this one person that I want to listen to it'll like zoom in on that person that I want to listen to and it'll kind of cut everyone else out but yeah it doesn't really work when you're like in a basement and like your mom or whoever screams from the first floor then because then it's like well it's listening to the air conditioner but then it doesn't quite know if that other sound coming from somewhere else. It doesn't know what to focus in on. Yeah then it just kind of screws it up. Right. This is going to be probably my dumbest question of the night. Yeah. I don't know it's hard to ever tell. The night is young. We got time. Do people ever use these that don't need them like if you're not hard of hearing is because I feel like some of the stuff you're saying sounds really like I'm kind of not like not jealous obviously I'm very grateful for the hearing I have but it sounds really cool to be able to zoom in on certain things and make things louder like I struggle when there's a lot of noises going on at once. Yeah. Are there people that use these things that don't need them because it's just like like really cool or strategic? I don't know. I just feel like that's it sounds like a superpower to me. It is you know I mean to an extent yeah it is a superpower. I mean with technology the way it is now if you told someone in the 1800s what I could do they'd be like what planet are you from? Yeah. So it's insane to think about but um no I haven't really known anyone just because the fact that insurance is such a battle um especially back in the day like when I first got them my mom was she's the rock star like she wrote letters on letters on letters just to get insurance approval. How much do they cost? I mean we were paying oh shoot I mean they're probably I probably have like I don't know half a million dollars in my head. Shut up. No. Just the part that's inside? Oh all of it like external internal surgery everything yeah. Wow. Does the implant itself I'm thinking like fake joints they have a lifespan of 20 years is this something that has to be refreshed on a on a bait on a consistent basis? Yeah the they gave the internal stuff like 18 years okay and I'm well past that I'm 23 um and so it's kind of like any day now I asked my audiologist like what she thought would be kind of when I'd need to be re-implanted um and she's just like you know it could be 10 years from now could be you know five years from now it could be next year. Is the only consideration that the sound part stops is it not like the the stuff that makes it like deteriorates the grades gets absorbed by brain goo? Yeah. I don't know how I don't know how a lot of things work. Oh it's all good it's all good yeah I mean it's just really like the lifespan of the technology if it is able to last that long um internally um because those internal devices don't get touched you know because you have surgery to get them put it in and then that's it. When you switch to a new one is it going to be like getting the same thing like you leave the same person as you entered or is it like upgrading like your you know 97 Toyota Camry to the newest Range Rover? It'll be like upgrading kind of like to a Range Rover because it'll be different technology there'll be because nowadays it's just an outpatient there like procedure when I got them like I had to stay in the hospital for a couple days and I had this big old bandage around me and like it was it did not look pretty I had like these big scars and now you know it's just a little slit behind the ear and then they slide the little magnet in and they're able to do everything with the cochlea all within an outpatient procedure. Can you feel it? Yeah I mean can I touch it? Yeah. So is that where the cochlea is like that far above the actual ear or is it I thought the cochlea was inside the ear? I don't feel it because it's right there yeah so it's it's it's like a slight little bump there but um yeah so that's how it's held on to my head is a magnet. Wow. Yeah you mentioned at the top of the interview that there were other um ramifications I'm not sure of being deaf or you say CMV was the yeah can you look that up yeah yeah it's bothering me so much. Cytomegalovirus? Yes that's it yes. Okay okay you mentioned that like um that your immune system is compromised because of is that because of the deafness or because of the virus itself? I'd say that one was because of the virus itself okay um and so like growing up like I would brush my teeth twice a day like every other kid right but I would get cavities on cavities yes I had to convince people growing up that I brushed my teeth twice a day and floss every day because I would just keep getting cavities and you know it just yeah so they think that has something to do with CMV like a weak um enamel basically um and then like the part that comes with the deafness is I don't have balance so I don't have the liquid in the semicircular canals that give people balance and so like how does that play out I'm very clumsy well there's some like steep I mean there's not like I don't like steep things there's not scary stuff on the Colorado trail but there's some there are some ridges yeah does that like screw you up well definitely um there was actually when we got to the high point of the Colorado trail we did an alpine start um and that was actually my first 30 mile day that was that was awesome my trail family is awesome for pushing me to do that but anyway so we woke up at like 2 30 in the morning and started hiking and it was complete darkness you know but the stars were out and that was kind of helpful but I had to have my headlamp on like the brightest it could go and even with that I was using my trekking poles side to side basically holding myself up walking on basically four legs just to stay up with the rest of the trail family yeah are there other so you mentioned the battery's dying you mentioned uh balance being a challenge are there other things that are not obvious that would be make something like this more challenging um yeah I think it would just be really the clumsiness um that's a really big thing and another one that a lot of people don't think about is swimming so when I'm swimming like and I can't see which way is up or down I don't like that idea where where to go yeah so like when I was younger I got pushed into the lake we were boating and I think it was my friend's dad like who pushes a deaf kid into the water yeah like a young kid makes sense because yeah they're dumb but like someone's dad is that I would be mad about that yeah so anyway besides that um I like get into the water and I don't have my life jacket on and so I'm swimming and I open my eyes and I quickly realize I can't see where the sun is no because that's exactly what I look for is where's the sun because that tells me where to go and so I just picked a direction started swimming I eventually hit the bottom of the lake no could kicked myself up and do you feel your ears popping like you get that like I'm going too deep ear poppy feeling yeah kind of so I kind of could tell that I'm getting towards the bottom um and so yeah I do get that only in my left ear though because I don't have an eardrum in my right side whoa okay so like if you go to the bottom of a pool your ears don't always pop no not always no or like even when I go on a plane they sometimes won't sometimes my left one will but other than that not normally did your mom have some choice words for your friend's dad I didn't tell her she's gonna find out I think she's gonna write a sternly worded letter is she gonna know who it is yeah um okay so Colorado Trail it's the Colorado Trail surprised me because I live in Colorado I think I know Colorado like I've been here and then there's so much of it that's above tree line for so long and the one thing I took note of when I left the Colorado Trail is how much your day revolves around weather and doing other trails first you think you understand that until you get even people that do the con on the by trail from what I've talked to people that I've done it about say that when they get to Colorado it's a different beast and I think just the weather and the lightning and the unpredictability of the storms really impacts your day how does that impact having the implants in with the water and the wetness and the waterproof and then also like do you hike with them out at times and then does that impact your ability to hear thunder or anything like that I mean obviously you can see when it's getting stormy but what is that like going through um terrain like that yeah no you hit the nail on the yeah you hit the nail on the head there with that because I mean when you're up at tree line and you start seeing these you know storms come in and it's starts pelting rain you know I have to take them off you know I'm not going to keep them on and so yeah it does become kind of tough I have never been in a situation like that where I was by myself and had that happen to me but I was hiking with people on the Colorado trail pretty consistently I started it by myself but then ended up meeting a pretty cool trail family and we kind of stuck together and there was a girl yeah she was like a backpacking guide and knew all the stuff that you need to know and so that was super helpful to be a part of that and so I would yeah in that one situation it was just pelting rain we were basically above tree line I took them off and you know just followed her are there any tips that you gathered after like now that's in the back of the memory bank we're here is there anything you learned from it that you would give as advice to someone who's also deaf who might have the Colorado trail or any other trail with weather on their like to-do list that would help them yeah I would say have a ziplock bag at your side like just in your little you know hip belt pocket because then you can quickly just put them in there and then you're good and then also make sure you have a rain jacket that can cinch down at the top because sometimes you don't always want to take them off and you know if it's raining pretty hard you can you know put your hood up and cinch it down and you're pretty well covered what do you use for rain jacket I just have an REI rain jacket that I got on sale yeah nice I've got a patent yeah you know how a lot of places Katabatic especially because I just memorized their ad read but places will do down hoods and you can just get the hood that's down I feel like it'd be helpful for places to do just down they're not down but rain jacket hoods like not the rain jacket but just the hood yeah because then you can just have sure or making a hood that is completely waterproof because there's always the trade-off between having the breathability and something that actually keeps the rain out yeah like the Buzz Lightyear hat yeah but yeah for Brady's standpoint having something where no moisture is getting in that seems like a feature that would be paramount for you yeah that'd be awesome yeah that'd be awesome I mean it can handle some moisture but I'm just kind of iffy about it yeah I feel like that's not something you want to test yeah so you mentioned the balance in the context of navigating like alpine terrain when it's dark out and that being challenging but so much with backpacking requires good balance like even like when you're navigating roots and rocks and all that were you having to be more careful than other people in your trail family just going on normal terrain and like is this something that you had to communicate with them like hey guys I might be lagging behind a little bit so don't wait up for me or do wait up or whatever it might be I'm just curious to know if like this is a conversation that you had to have with your trail family yeah I mean I don't know if I explicitly had that conversation but you know we'd be hiking along and I'd trip and I'm like ah jeez why does this keep happening I'm like well I know why this keeps happening I have zero balance you know and then that'd spark a conversation but so they were aware of it and they would just you know we'd always have that conversation of hey we're camping around this area and so if I lost them then no big deal but yeah I mean in the case of like really rocky terrain like I go a lot slower than most people just because of that exact same thing like I'm gonna if I really hurt myself out here like which I'm really prone to doing I hurt myself a lot then that would not be good you also mentioned that you got a Garmin at some point during the hike is that now something that you'll just be backpacking with forever yeah forever I mean a couple weekends ago I did the Aspen to Crespid Butte and back like that was really fun but I just had my Garmin on me it was just a day hike yeah and so I do that every time now I got my Garmin before the CT I actually got it basically like a couple months right beforehand just so that I could you just Aspen and Crespid Butte and back in a day yeah that's a big day yeah is that the four pass loop yeah it was yeah it wasn't the full four pass loop okay you could go one direction with it uh I mean that is a big day it's a very big day 21 miles yeah nonchalant yeah but I heard those miles are harder than regular miles well did you do the the um West Maroon Pass yes portion of that okay yeah West Maroon Pass yeah it was just I had a buddy come up from Texas he came from Texas you made him do that in a day he wanted me to do it and he did it no problem yeah yeah it was that same buddy who did the PCT yeah his name is Travis he's a cool guy he's gonna be listening to this but so now that you've got the Colorado Trail under your belt would you feel comfortable going out and doing solo backpacking or where are you gonna feel are you gonna try to arrange a situation where you've got a trail family with you at all times I actually went into the Colorado Trail kind of knowing that I would be by myself for most of the time I didn't expect to have such a big trail family like I did um like by the time we ended you know we called ourselves the dirty bubble uh because we were like the bubble of the Colorado Trail and like we had like 18 people 18 damn yeah and like we had this uh lady in our trail family who had a house in Durango and so we had like this big old like ending party and like you know I my trail experience feels a little different than most people because like they don't a lot of people say that the Colorado Trail is something that they don't really like deem as a social trail right I feel like it's getting there it's getting there it really is yeah this summer was there was a lot of people what was your start date uh July 1st and when'd you finish August 2nd yeah August 2nd yeah do you have any standout like I'm big on stories I like being able to not in a lazy way but I like being able to sit back and listen to you tell me a nice story that I can kind of just like get into yeah do you have any standout stories from the Colorado Trail that are like noteworthy to share um you know I guess yeah I do I have a couple so there's one where uh I think you guys would like this for your shit book well it's not a shit book I love that no it's a shit book it's a shit book about absolutely a shit book about the turds and go back to our segments that the listeners haven't heard yet right um yeah I mean this isn't my poop story but I met this guy named shitfoot love it I mean already right there it was just the way he told it it was just hilarious um he was hiking the at um and he was like running to a bathroom like a pit toilet and it was like pouring rain and he had just gotten back from town and he like stepped in shit but this was like someone had like gone like running to the pit toilet but then couldn't make it all the way and so then they dug a hole in the trail did their business like right in the middle of the trail yeah did their business and then didn't even cover it up yeah and so he built a shit trench yeah fully stepped in it like in the shoe everything it was yeah it got in his shoe yeah and yeah so he went to the toilet did his thing then went back to his girlfriend he's like hey we're going back to town right circling back to what the listener has not yet heard yeah this will make sense when you've gotten to the end of the episode we're coming to you from the future here this is another reason for no to shoeys right it depends on the shoe but yeah I guess most people have probably stepped in shit unknowingly over 2650 although I would think most of them didn't get shit in their shoe you never know yeah yeah I've got a note here that your trail name is undies yes what's the story oh that's a fun story yeah I was staying at this hostel in Breckenridge and they had a hot tub and so you know naturally I asked hey can I just wear my underwear in the hot tub you didn't say undies no I didn't say undies that's not the reason why I'm called undies either and so I am sitting in the hot tub that goes as normally as it could go with one sitting in a hot tub with their underwear anyway so fast forward and I hang my underwear on the bunk because I have to leave the next morning and I wanted them to be dry so I can get hiking in the morning and I'm like two or three miles in and I realize I don't have my underwear I have my shit pair of underwear I didn't actually shit in them but they're just like they're just not my good pair of underwear is what I'm getting at yeah they're not my good pair of underwear yeah but my nice pair of underwear is like the marina wool like super nice right and what's the not nice pair for some amazon brand spiderman yeah they're my true undies and so I used my garment I texted my mom because there's nobody else I knew that would actually do anything about like if I were to text my buddy be like hey I left my underwear in the hostel he's gonna be like okay so my mom she calls the hostel and leave and the guy at the hostel puts my mom on speakerphone in front of all these hikers who know you that I had met the previous day and so these hikers are just like well okay um they're just cracking up I mean I wasn't actually there what was she saying she was like hey my son forgot his underwear on the bunk um and so yeah and so these hikers are just like we'll get him his underwear we'll burn it to him and so they like change their entire plan and they grab my underwear and start hiking and I like kind of had a sense that somebody was going to burn them to me but I didn't know how so they cleaned yeah they were clean okay how uncomfortable are you with someone else just like bringing you your own underwear I feel like I'd rather them burn them I was like I can just find some in Twin Lakes right it's my nice pair yeah but um yeah so they I was a couple days later like over this was over a couple days like they were hiking extra miles to catch up with me and so I kind of knew that someone was trying to catch up so I just like slowed down a little bit and I was eating lunch on top of zero pass and there were like a bunch of other random hikers and I just hear these people like screaming Brady they're like waving my underwear running up the mountain how they know it was you well I think it was because of my sun shirt is what they said okay because I have I had like a really like tan like not tan but like a blue sun shirt and I always wore the hood up because the wind was super bad with my ci's and so yeah and other people were just looking around like they gave me my underwear they said that uh my trail name was now undies that's a good way to get a trail name yeah so you already know that Zach and I are massive fans of Katabatic's quilts which we've collectively used for many thousands of miles but did you know that Katabatic also makes incredible ultra light down jackets as well they offer two models the lighter tarn and the warmer tin cup in both men's and women's sizing options both models feature 850 plus fill power hyper dry down which means that these jackets are incredibly warm lightweight and will shed moisture much more effectively than untreated down I've been rocking the Katabatic tin cup in recent weeks and let me tell you this is my new favorite down jacket this thing weighs less than 10 ounces has kept me toasty on these late season camping trips looks great and is super comfortable much like their quilts Katabatic's jackets use high end per tex fabrics the highest quality responsible down standard down feathers and a high fill to weight ratio all of this at a very fair price compared to other high end down jackets backpacker radio listeners can score a very limited time 15 discount by using code bpr15 at checkout at katabaticgear.com again that's bpr the number 15 at checkout at katabaticgear.com don't wait on this discount it's only good for a very limited time so you mentioned keeping the batteries at above a certain temperature you mentioned having a ziplock bag in the scenario that things are getting wet are there other things that you would do differently to prepare for your next backpacking trip knowing what you know now um i would say i would honestly um do what i did when i was on the colorado trail i think i hammered it out pretty well um you know the ziplock bags um and then i would say another thing would be to be more communicative with the people i'm hiking with about like hey like if i'm not up at this time like you should probably wake me up yeah because you mentioned your alarm that vibrates you awake i assume you didn't bring that with no i just had my phone yeah does the phone vibrate enough to actually get you up half the time okay so you're good at sleeping in yeah i'm good at sleeping in yeah i've gotten better over the years but um on the trail i actually i just ended up putting it inside my like little pillow um i have those like the nemo inflatable pillow and so it has that little like case around it and so then when i put that in that little case on the bottom side then it wakes me up the question that fits between whatever question before came before zacks and zacks i think this is a pre-zac question because he was saying what would you do for next hikes my question is did you like this hike and would you do another one oh yeah i want to do the pct what would be different scaling this up to six months for you it would be assuming it would take that long yeah yeah no i mean it would probably take me six months um i i think the biggest challenge would be the resupplies because like getting extra batteries because one thing that i noticed was i was carrying a lot of extra batteries just out of fear and like when they die i can't just throw them away like i'm stuck with that weight you know and so like when i throw them away it has to be you know because it's not environmentally friendly just to throw batteries into the woods so i guess that would be one thing i would look into more is probably have more frequent resupplies so i didn't have to carry as many batteries um and so that would be the challenge for the pct i think how much do they weigh um i didn't weigh them out but they're not terribly heavy they're like when a pack of them comes with those like little watch batteries of like six of them like nine of them actually yeah it's nine batteries and so what's really bad about them is since they're zinc air batteries they can't touch each other and so what i tried doing before that i went on the ct was i tried putting them all in like a baggie so it was just like a bag full of batteries but i can't do that with them because apparently something with them coming in contact with each other duds them out oh that's a hard lesson to learn yeah yeah that was a really hard lesson did you learn that on trail i was doing like a weekend trip yeah yeah and i went the last day without being able to use testing battery after battery and like slowly it's realizing yeah oh yeah what ratio or maybe you could do absolute number would you do of rechargeable versus non-rechargeable batteries if you're just going to start fresh with a new backpacking trip yeah i would probably do like say if i were going to be out there for a week i would do probably like three days worth of disposable batteries and then the rest would be just be the rechargeables or i can use the ones that are on my head and there's like a little fob that i can plug that's like a little usb charger basically and that plugs into any portable charger and so i can use that as my predominant source but what sucks about it is when i was doing that i would only have one extra rechargeable battery and so then i'd have like a rotation of the three but then at a certain point i ended up just because i'd be lazy and i'd be like oh it died and so i wouldn't do it for a little bit and i'd just have one that was not dead for a little bit and then i'd end up with two that were dead and then that would be tragic and so and then i just ended up being in a cycle where i would constantly have one dead battery this might actually be my dumbest question of the episode now that i'm thinking it through yeah you mentioned that it connects to your phone if you're listening to music or a podcast while hiking do you this seems like i'm answering my own question you don't need headphones you don't need to put in air pods it just goes through those no i have the og air pods yeah yeah i've i've only just like i i understood it was dumb as i asked it but i've only just put that together that well i guess you save weight on not needing regular headphones then like that's kind of a trade-off yeah i suppose with half a milli worth of gear on your head how bad is it if you were to lose and or break one uh pretty bad like is it like like is it like a major stressor or is it just like it's chill i mean right now it's kind of chill i have a couple other um cochlear implants just throughout the years i've kind of collected them like my pretty my old ones that still work so and i'm pretty good friends with my audiologist and so she actually gave me an extra pair of ci's to bring with me on the trip um and so that was super clutch that was really nice um because those are not cheap um and yeah it kind of is a little bit of a crisis mode when one of them does die i mean when one of them does break or get lost um because you could be you know a week or you know two weeks without it depending on how long it takes for cochlear to get a new one out to you and you know the cost of them and insurance and warranties like it's a whole different world um and like dealing with insurance is not fun um i will say that insurance does not want people to hear i don't i don't understand it they want to make as much money as possible and the health care they provide be damned yeah yeah exactly it's does that affect like okay so when a lot of people go hiking me for example when i did pct i might have barely been on my parents health insurance at i definitely wasn't on my parents health insurance that one now that we're four years removed i can comfortably without getting scolded say i did not have health insurance for um i quit my job on a friday i started hiking on a sunday i yoloed the whole thing nice and i know a lot of travelers insurance or anything nope i said let's see what happens jewels yeah well listen it's been almost five years we can skim past that now but i know for a lot of people that hike i'm not the only one that does that a i will put my foot down on that but b i know there's a lot of people that struggle to figure out how to get insurance for something like taking time off to do a hike is that something that you can work with where it's like travelers insurance or other things with your hearing aids or is that something where you need to like have a job that has this like corporate insurance type thing to be able to make sure that you have the coverage for should anything go wrong with these in the future like is this like binding you to like the corporate world kind of is yeah and that's kind of the sad part about it is yeah i do need insurance if i don't and something happens to them that's going to be not great um and so thank god i'm 23 and not 26 yeah yeah so i'm kind of i'm actually in talks right now because i just started a new job um and we're kind of thinking about do i just go on my own insurance now or i'm trying to lean towards convince my mom be like hey can i just stay on like all my older older brothers got to why can't i yeah if anything you have more of a need right exactly so we'll see could you get sponsorships for it at some point like is it like if i if i hike a bunch right now and i can kind of get the word out then implant people that make this brand like would sponsor me to be able to keep doing further things like this or are you like is this like a road that you can ride until you're 26 and then you have to put health first um i think i could get sponsors yeah i definitely could um it would be more along the lines of sponsorship um to get insurance like they would give me the the money to be able to have insurance kind of thing because like they wouldn't be like oh we're gonna take you because we're the company that has cochlear implants and like that would be cochlear because you know there's other medical expenses that could happen you know um and so like meaning just my stomach hurts i need some medicine you know um and so i couldn't just predominantly be under like cochlears um sponsorship for that um it would be more along the lines of yeah hey here's health insurance um and so yeah that's another thought process that i have for doing the pct sooner so that i can do it without having an actual job yeah um and so that makes sense i know part of the inspiration for doing the ct was to inspire others who are deaf or hard of hearing to pursue their dreams have you had other people reach out to you since you've completed the ct asking your asking you questions and just saying that they were motivated by your journey yeah i've had a couple people actually it was more like parents of kids um and so actually um last weekend i did a fundraiser with the listen foundation um and so what the listen foundation does is basically they help families who are deaf and hard of hearing and their their kids have um an implantable device helps them get auditory verbal therapy all the resources that they need to help pay for stuff and it's a really great organization and it helps that camp that i grew up attending and now volunteer for um and so when i was at that event i had a couple parents like come up to me and be like hey my kid wants to go backpacking now because you've done this my kid wants to start playing guitar and because you you play guitar you know and all this stuff i was playing guitar for the event basically let's talk about that because i've got a note here about your guitar playing as well how does that interface with being hard of hearing or does it like the fact that you're a good guitar player is that independent of the fact that you have this deafness or um do you think how does it interface i guess it's a simple way of asking the question i actually started playing guitar around the same time i got my second implant um and that was probably around yeah five or six years old and i guess i i like challenges not just guess i took it as a challenge and just went for it and it also got stems from the fact that you know my grandpa he's really into the blues and i grew up going to a lot of concerts and that kind of bred me into being a guitar player um but to answer your question um no i don't think it really interfaces much it's just really um becomes more challenging i guess um and i've gotten to the point with my guitar playing that it it's a stress reliever more than anything and i really enjoy it what style guitar do you play um electric acoustic mostly blues though i really like the blues do you play solo or in a band and is it difficult playing with a band because you mentioned previously being able to like discern different uh audio inputs can be a challenge yeah it is i i mostly play by myself but i am looking for a band right now i played in a band for i think a year and a half in college my last yeah senior year of college um and what i learned a lot through that is the bass and the drums help a lot so i kind of have to like position myself to where i can like be right next to the drummer and kind of also next to the bassist and kind of like be able to actually feel their um their tempo and their rhythm have you ever tried playing without the implants in like just going off of muscle memory yeah what's that experience like yeah i mean it's i don't know i don't i don't hear what i'm playing yes you know it's um more along the lines of you know i am more attentive to where my fingers are being placed on the fretboard um and so actually i do that as a practice sometimes where i'll just play without being able to hear just so that i know that like i can feel every little note that my fingers are hitting um and just feel the vibration of the guitar because when i know when there's a certain amount of vibration on the guitar that i actually hit that note and so when i focus on that then i realize that i'm a more precise player that's interesting yeah i play to a lesser extent and yeah you know when you're in the wrong part of the frets like it feels wrong right you know when you hit a bad note yeah you play guitar we've talked about this in a previous episode but what six years ago it's been a long i don't play regularly anymore but i can confidently handle a guitar and the drums just validating his point that you know when you don't get it right that just wants to be able to relate that's right yeah okay with what you were talking about with the insurance and the cost of these and all the ways that they can get fucked on the trail it doesn't seem like the outdoors is the most accessible place for someone with a hearing issue and is that like is there something that the outdoors i'm saying the outdoors in like a broader scene like the broader scheme of the outdoors is there something the outdoors in general can do to make the outdoors more accessible to people with hearing issues or is this strictly like a insurance side of things where the outdoors is accessible enough but it's the like hoops that you have to jump through on that end that are causing the headaches like what where's the middle ground what can be done to make this something where people who have implants for hearing can more comfortably get outside and enjoy it yeah i mean i'm actually really trying to think of ways this is that reason because right now i'm a junior board member of the listen foundation and i'm hoping through that i can kind of come up with a way to be able to bridge that gap because there are a lot of families who it seems like it's more the hoops that you have to jump through and insurance just consumes too much of the time and then too much of the time to be able to actually you know get your kid outdoors and be able to you know show them the true bliss of nature you know and so really i think what it comes down to is just the awareness and the ability to actually spend the time like taking your kids from a younger age early intervention is what they call it for getting your coconut implants earlier on when you're young and so basically getting them outdoors and making that mindset switch from oh i can't do this because of this i feel like that's got to be hard for the parents because like you look at kids outside and i feel like when i think of a kid outdoors if i think about myself in my neighbor's stream when i was growing up like it's chaos like i just want to slap everything and mush the mud and like splash and i feel like if i just dropped bank on these implants for my kid and i take them outside and i see them being a kid outside like i'm having a panic attack inside about what if these things break fall out get lost anything um how do you even approach making that better because i feel like there's got to be just anxiety and stress all around that yeah i think it's got to come down to the insurance because there's got to be more leeway of like oh i lost an implant and he's replaced you know there's got to be more um yeah i think it starts at the insurance because then if you don't have that actual backing or that mental backing of like oh we're covered we're good if something happens um then i think that's where you'll start seeing that shift are there insurance policies that do it better than others like i know insurance through what my company provides for me like i know the brand that i have but are there companies that do this better than others or are more accommodating you know give more or less whoopee yeah i don't quite know um specific insurance companies that are better than others but i do know that like some families um actually get medicare um just based on like their you know age and like the disability that they have and all that like i was on or what is it medicaid or medicare which one's for the older people um medicare i believe is for the plus 65 because medicaid would be the one that i had then uh hold on hold on they could give them more medicare medicare is the federal health insurance for anyone age 65 and older and some people under 65 with certain disabilities or conditions medicaid is a joint federal and state program that gives health coverage to some people with limited income and resources okay so i i qualified for medicare because of my disability um and then there's a certain point that they say oh he doesn't qualify anymore because he can talk and he can hear and so then i'm not eligible for that anymore so they give you the hearing implant so that you can hear and then they're like he can hear now he doesn't qualify yeah basically that's very fucked up yeah so fucked up that's very fun and so we had to go on to our own insurance you know and so that that's what i'm saying like it's a really big deal because a lot of these companies that are what they're doing is if your kid needs a cochlear implant these insurance companies are like talking to the hospital and seeing how much business that this insurance company does with the hospital and then they decide on how much profit that they want to make based on how much business that insurance company does with that specific hospital is there a way like let's talk about we're that we're the listener we're listening to this episode you know it's come into a close is there an actionable way for us to do anything about it or is this just one of those like thank you sir may i have another's where like we're just getting like shit fed to us and we just got to eat it like what can you actually do about it to improve the situation at all yeah it's tough because i mean without having to like go i mean i could go to washington maybe and maybe get some bills passed or something to actually drive forward the change that needs to happen with our insurance policies um then i don't quite know um because i mean going back to just getting people outdoors who maybe have been limiting themselves who otherwise should not be limiting themselves because there was a switch that was flipped in my head that like said i'm not going to let this control what i want and don't want to do what was that um that was in middle school actually at the cochlear implant family camp i was uh rock climbing and i was like man like what was stopping me from doing this before um and from then on i just kind of had that same mindset of you know i'm not going to let my disability you know affect what i want to do with my life it's uh really more of the ability to not hear when i choose because that's how i think about it it also sounds like your mom is an awesome advocate in this because she's in the medical care system like she knows the levers that need to be pulled um to that point i recently maybe this is an actionable tip for somebody listening to this but insurance will shoot down a lot of the things that you try to do to benefit your own health and i use chat gpt to because they said that one of like the blood tests that i was getting was not covered on my insurance plan and i legitimately input that test and i forget the name of the uh official form that you're supposed to file to protest it but i put that into chat gpt and it spit out like a long letter and like it had me insert specific things that were true to my specific case um but i was and it ended up working it ended up working what they say just like sorry they just ended up so i what i gather with health insurance at least in my personal case i can't speak to the broad spectrum or certainly brady's case but it seems like a lot of times if you put effort into fighting the stuff there are enough instances where they will back down and accommodate you i think they're used to people not fighting and just being bulldozed by the terrible system but if you do show some resistance there is a fighting chance i have this is money with katie again a great podcast if anyone's interested in that sort of thing but the money with katie stuff she had posted um just like one of the weeks when she was doing a deep dive on something was like the different codes that they use for health insurance and how a lot of the times if you go to the doctor and you end up with a big bill if you look up the different codes that they plug certain things in for a lot of them are oftentimes like and egregiously so marked incorrectly and like getting those fixed like they're apparently apparently this is like a thing where you can i never knew you could push back against this stuff i never knew you could be like i don't like this and you're just always told to just like this is what it is yeah suck it up and take it yeah that's exactly what it was yeah my mom just kept on pushing pushing pushing and finally got it that's awesome you know i'm i am where i am now because of my mom yeah you know that's that's fantastic it's good to have somebody who's in the health care world who understands this stuff because it can be so disheartening to just know that you're at the mercy of someone who's not connected to the health care portion of it at all saying that like no you don't actually need this like motherfucker my doctor tells me i would be mad and jaded i think like i don't think i could handle like you're very happy and from what i can tell just like you know positive but i feel like i if i were to face those road blocks i would get very jaded and mad and not happy about things you know i think that comes up to like how i was growing up how i was brought up because you know i had all those hurdles that i had to jump you know and i guess that kind of attributes to my personality now it's just like all right cool let's go let's see how we're going to handle this situation um and so having to be like bred into constantly having to go over hurdle over hurdle over hurdle just to listen or just to hear you know i think that's bred me into looking at it in a positive aspect because otherwise what is life like yeah does that give you a leg up on things like through hiking where like hurdles that would get other people down and considering getting off trail is just like another day in the life for you yeah yeah totally yeah i mean it's i don't like to say oh i can't do that or because of this reason you know i i like to think things through and be like oh yeah i can do it because well maybe this will happen but okay let's see let's go for it you know and it's just that mindset okay so to wrap the interview here uh we're gonna dive back into this box i don't know what you're doing your favorite item from your favorite favorite freeze-dried candy slash on their rate for the listeners um brady's stepdad freeze dries um candies and other things there's some ranch green beans in here so i can't exclusively say candies but these all look fire don't give me bananas i like bananas just they look like they look like the dehydrated bananas and those are a no for me um they are better than the dehydrated all right if you say they're better i'll try them there's a lot of interesting things in this box i don't know i will say shout out to my mom um for she literally overnighted this box so that was insane you said it was harvest general store right yes okay harvest general store they just do like trade shows and stuff in iowa right now but um my favorite is the uh smoothie frittles is what they call them they're just these are skittles bust them open yeah let's have a couple yeah i'm like happy i didn't even ask myself to clap i just started clapping there you said the red ones are the best no i just said like the smoothie ones are my favorite i think all skittles taste the same to be honest isn't that wow it's a pet peeve for listeners to hear us chewing so apologies this is fun this feels different yeah wow that's the right reaction i feel it under my chin i'm gonna go ahead and say i actually like that way better than a regular skittle that's damn good that's what's all over my tiktok is people are making these in their microwave yeah it's like a skittle that exploded and became i don't even know how to describe it i don't even know how to describe the texture that is delicious i have another oh i got two and i grabbed a yellow which is usually my least favorite flavor orange is good because it tastes like orange tic tacs and orange is the new black oh yeah there you go oh yeah these are all yours these are awesome wow it's really good oh yeah well another shout out to harvest general store will include the it was can you can people order this on the facebook page or is it even are they even delivering of right now they're in the process of setting up a website okay you can't even buy right now i mean right now you can message them on facebook and maybe they'll send you something okay cool um yeah in the process of setting up a website brady is there anything that we haven't asked you that you'd like to relay to the listeners of backpacker radio not really i mean i think we pretty much covered it but i will say um just because you have a disability doesn't mean that should limit what you want to do with your life um and you know just being able to talk here right now and you know i never would have thought that i would be talking on a podcast or having a conversation on a you know media that is predominantly listening um and that's just amazing technology it's amazing for you know my audiologist it's amazing for my auditory verbal therapist it's everyone in my life that's culminated to this moment um and so really thank everyone in my life and in my family and for where i'm at now here here i'm so impressed by the technology of this like uh honestly blown away and even talking about like the enhancements above what you can get above just typical hearing is honestly pretty exciting and like this isn't even for me like it's pretty it's it's mind-boggling it's very cool and what's really nice is you know as i get older i'll be the only one in the nursing home who can actually hear whoa wait do these not work for people when you lose your hearing like if i were to listen to headphones on too loud and then my hearing slowly goes these wouldn't work for me i mean they could it's just it's like an old or nothing thing so if you get the cochlear implants you're not gonna have any hearing actual hearing yeah damn well these are superpowers shout out to this technology but also you brady like your your testament you're an inspiration uh really grateful that you could come on to the podcast and share your story for listeners whether they have a disability or not i think it's a really interesting story to share so thank you for your time and sharing your journey with us yeah i appreciate it thanks for having me on to the trek propaganda portion of today's show you're gonna like this one we're not doing question of the day we're gonna do that afterward okay i'm just going off of the show notes here uh trek propaganda this is oh i thought you said triple crown ignore me yeah guys it's my first i don't know maybe i just heard that it's my first episode yes uh this one is titled broken on the at gear that breaks at 2000 miles and gear that doesn't the thing that you're gonna like about this is the author this is written by no none other than abby evans queen fire salamanders right uh shit i forget she had like shit water yep they had water queen of the salamanders yeah no shit water fireball queen of the salamanders shit water fireball queen of this hell yes i'm such a good friend that is actually very impressive um you helped me by saying shit yeah well i always do this obviously is just one person's perspective on the subject but if you're curious to know which of abby's gear broke toward the end of her hike and which end of their hike and which did not which stood the test of time head to the link in the show notes this one was really well done uh the reason we're bringing this up is we had a chance to hang out with abby at trail days abby was a trail correspondent she they volunteered at the booth and was just genuinely generally a very good hang in good times participated in all of our pizza parties yeah that's right um i have a couple of other posts here but we've got a stacked segment lineup for today so let's get right to that uh transitioning to today's question of the day i don't like that rachel included the examples because one of the examples was something that i was going to include but oh okay i thought you're gonna say one of the examples was something that you like because i also really would have included ipa's yeah okay well we're spoiling it but okay question of the day is what are you convinced people are pretending to enjoy yes i will say i do i do occasionally like an ipa i like some ipa's but the ipa culture in the last like 15 years has gotten completely out of hand it went from being this like really rare specialty beer that existed well at a few breweries now it's like you go to a brewery and it's 80 of what they make they have slight variations whether you want it hazy or slightly fruity or whatever notes of hops etc and this is coming from somebody that generally pretty much likes ipa's but it's just totally out of hand nobody likes ipa's that much yeah i think it just seems cool they're good if it's in a flight like if i'm getting a flight of beers and you're giving me like four shooters of different kinds of beers i'll absolutely have one because i don't have to deal with it for 16 ounces a full glass of ipa that's too much ipa after a long day hike you get back to the car you've got an ipa sitting on ice and you're cooler that's i could easily deal with a 12 to 16 ounce ipa in that circumstance but thinking about like going to the brewery and downing three or four ipa's shoot me in the head that's too much ipa i mean i would drink anything cold after a long hike like i would drink cold pee after a hike would you no but i mean it depends on how long the hike was and how much i needed to hydrate what is the mileage that would what's your threshold you know i considered it on the colorado trail when i ran out of water yeah same java had to talk me i've gone i did eight miles on the pct up by moraine lake um without water that that when i was close um the colorado trail when i ended up eight miles without water yeah um and then that's a lot it was a lot it felt a lot the colorado trail i ended up calling a taxi to pick me up and take me into solida and i drank the river water and slept next to a trailer in a trailer park and got yelled at in the morning like i was that level of desperation i suppose if you're that desperate just do it and because it takes a while for giardia to take hold anyways so i'd rather deal with the ramifications of giardia in three days and not die of dehydration or even just suffer for being that level of thirsty because then you can go to the hospital you get all the iv bags yada yada yada that's a later problem i mean if anyone has to choose between giardia and dying of yeah or any other reason i i doubt it'd have to be pretty severe to i don't think i've heard of anyone dying of dehydration in the context of thru-hiking are you sure if the desert and the pct we've had it's possible that people who've gone missing have died that way but i don't think i guess those are heat stroke too yeah anyways anyways so i would have an ipa if it was cold yeah um but only in but it's somewhere in the same power ranking as piss if i have other no no because let's say like i'm at a event where everyone's having some drinks and all they have are ipa's i'm not gonna just like not partake this should be a triple crown at some point maybe we've done it but give me your top two beer varieties okay i like light and fruity is usually what i'll say if i'm going to someone to order and i don't know the menu like a whip beer wheat i like wheat beers i like hefeweizens um i like i actually like like some stout importers but it has to either be cold and snowy or again the um flight scenario i also like fruity beers i'll go for a goze or sour whichever one that is but i don't i can't do a whole blind to that either just like it's sour yeah i'm a i like just classic beer i like mexican lager i like ambers ambers can be really good the few places where i've had cream ales that tends to be good steve chauncey is a cream out man yeah he um genesee cream ale okay it is all all of these carried in the house growing up what's the um the gold can shit i'm blanking on the brewery it's the every liquor store in colorado sells this it's a popular never mind i think we use banquets no uh it's mostly silver with like a gold accent i think it's a cream beer but i could be wrong anyways i'm sounding like a fucking idiot right now so the question of the day yeah question uh things that you're convinced of what are you convinced people are pretending to enjoy ipa's is a good one but we're neither of us are drafting that because that was the example given in your show notes i'm gonna go with you go first okay i've got options um oh where to start i'm gonna go with anything cold in regards to backpacking just to keep it relevant to the podcast sure for example cold soaking yeah no one likes that no one likes that you could say you like that you don't like that you could say oh my diet i don't care you don't actually like it yeah i think you're a liar yeah um cold camping for example like people that like backpack in shoulder seasons when it's really really cold and it's freezing when you get out of your tent and it's freezing when you get in your tent or you're going through snow no one actually likes that depends on the level of cold for me the the threshold is if it's painful to grab the tent poles and i guess if you're using a trekking pole tent that's less likely to be an issue because you know like cork handles or some other fabric uh material um once it's uncomfortable to grab the tent poles i guess you could just have gloves to solve that problem but that's about my threshold as long as it's not like stinging my hands to grab something whatever like the carbon fiber pole then i'm doing okay i just i can't ever enjoy getting out of a warm sleeping bag into like a freezing temperature and pretend that i'm having a good time yeah but you can just start off by wearing this is what i do is i just wear all of my clothes like i've got my down jacket on usually like rain pants or wind pants the leggings and then like i'll slowly strip as i get throughout the day so it's i do that too um i still don't like it okay fair that's fair uh because you can't cover everything like when i started the at i wore my buff around my nose because my nose was the part those are really cold mornings yeah that's like sub freezing i would agree with you that's a that's a struggle bus sort of like job of doing the winter at hike you can't pretend you're enjoying that yeah that's not fun that's not three season that's the depths of the fourth season yeah i can poke right off so that's one of mine okay uh one of mine is ipa would have been my first choice so good good job to rachel um this is coming as somebody who consumes a mass quantity of this on a daily basis coffee no that's on my list uh yeah i drink i'm up to like a half pot of coffee right now it's bad it's really bad like the first cup of coffee is just laying the foundation for the next cup of coffee doesn't actually do anything for me right but without adding like sugar and cream drinking coffee black um i've convinced myself that i like it because i am chasing the effect that it gives me but i would never drink decaf yeah i mean i would never drink black coffee um but even with the milk and sugar no one can tell you that that tastes good it's strange because i like coffee flavored things like coffee flavored ice cream is good espresso martinis are good sure i've never actually had one but sure oh my god but yeah just like straight black coffee the people that go and spend like six bucks on a really nice cup of coffee apparently starbucks certain starbucks have something called a clover machine which is like a it's a machine i think it's worth in the five figures it's very expensive and not all starbucks have this the ones that do it takes a while for this cup of coffee to be made it's more expensive than their standard cup of coffee and it's supposed to be like an exquisite cup of coffee i've had that before and it was like this is a slightly less bad thing i enjoy the effect it makes me productive puts me in a good mood wakes me up but the taste itself sucks shit i just i think there is a venn diagram to be made of the ipa enthusiasts and the black coffee enthusiasts here's question there's gonna be a lot of overlap in that venn diagram assuming calories weren't part of the equation would you be more likely to drink a non-alcoholic ipa or a decaf cup of black coffee no you had to pick let's say wait what you're you're we're in our pct hiking scenario and remove the uh temperature of the liquid that you're consuming just going purely off of a taste basis your only options are decaf coffee or alcohol free and this is black coffee yeah i yeah no i'd rather drink dirt you wouldn't do either if you're like dying i would do the ipa absolutely yeah i just black coffee i'm not doing yeah i agree with you by the way i only started drinking coffee when i started the sales job because it's just that's how you have to adapt yeah um i have a friend who works finance very owns a house owns dogs like very adult on a lot of levels but he's also viciously addicted to caffeine but doesn't drink any coffee products he just drinks like those uh what's like the trendy uh energy drink right now celsius yeah he'll drink like two of those to start the day well i'll do english breakfast tea i like english breakfast tea with cream and sugar uh milk and sugar i think that has just as much just as much caffeine yeah i was probably banging their heads on the wall i was tempted to pull out the ted lasso line and then the alarm bell went off that we had had this conversation like recently i apologize um but yeah coffee i'll have coffee in places where it's just easier to have coffee or sure like yeah i went to the mechanic today there's free cough there's free coffee in most places indoors or like at work like they'll have coffee and i don't i'm very particular about the tea like i don't want those little like peel top hazelnut vanilla french vanilla coffee creamers that you put in so if a place only has those and there's no like milk option that i can put in my tea then i'll go for the coffee because i'm not gonna have a bad cup of tea yeah yeah i'm this is coming from somebody that i even drink black coffee on a fairly regular basis because by cup two or three like i just don't want the additional cream or sugar i'm just trying to get the caffeine in my body in the least painful way possible and i don't like pills and all that stuff uh so i drink black coffee but it's gross and people like nerd out on this stuff saying that they love it and i just i don't i think they're lying i've like i could go so far as to say i've tasted black coffee i know what it tastes like i've tasted it i've had like a taste of it yeah never in my life have i ever just sat down and drank some no amount of desperation has ever gotten me there yeah uh i have a good friend who taught himself to like black coffee because he thought there would be enough circumstances in life where coffee was available but the all the accoutrements wouldn't be available so like he just wanted to be prepared prepared for such a scenario and now he only drinks black coffee but i think he's lying too yeah i think he taught himself how to lie yeah okay um what else you got on your list uh my last one because this is we're not even on the triple crown yet my last one is this will probably be less controversial quinoa why does the word sound like a word i know quinoa yes i know quinoa it's like shitty couscous yeah yeah yeah i don't know why but for some reason like the word was there and my brain wasn't connecting yeah to it i know it's supposed to be healthy like i i like quinoa do you really like kind of like pops in your mouth a bit it's kind of like bubbles yeah that's to me i like the idea of it i like it up with a fork uh i think that's part of it like when you make rice you're supposed to fluff it i don't know i've never actually made quinoa i've only had it like at the deli stand okay or when other people make it but uh pretty much every time i've had it suck shit okay um i just i think that's something salt could fix but to each their own yeah my last one is a classic for me and that's people that like working in the office prefer working in the office to working remotely i think that anyone who genuinely enjoys working in an office um might not um have other avenues of socializing outside of office like you know the people in the office where like work is life my co-workers are my family like live breathe eat office i came from startup culture which is very much that um i think they like office because without office they just like don't have connections yeah and get bored because they don't know what to do can i play devil's advocate sure i have many social options not to brag or anything uh but sometimes the path of least resistance takes over and i just don't ever utilize them where if i were forced into a social situation oftentimes i feel better it's like working out like you don't want to work out but you do you have the option to go into office when you choose to go into the office that's you free will choosing to do it that's fun i'm talking about the people that are proponents for return to office like cut work from home cut the option everyone come back in i think those are people that have been wildly lonely and haven't really done much to find a hobby there's a couple things happening here one is i think the people that run businesses uh would argue that people are more productive when i'm not talking about them they've got ulterior motives i'm talking about your co-workers okay so okay um yeah for me i think there's a ratio there's some sort of golden ratio like i think like one day in the office is the ideal thing yeah i think every day at home is bad i think every day in the office is worse i could do a tuesday and every other thursday sure one and a half days per week yeah that makes sense that would be good that's 30 work from the office right yeah and like the option to not should i get to tuesday morning and it's cold yeah uh yeah i could be on board with that anyway i think the people that are all let's go back to the office all of us come on together now i think they um maybe don't have the most fun outside of work and that's what they get jazzed about yeah i will say aside from you the only person i work with is billy we've done the show previously the trucks developer um and i like billy so this is not like a commentary on anything like that but the days that we work together which is rare probably once every other week sometimes a little bit more frequently i come home in a much better mood than me just like sitting hunched over my laptop by myself not talking to anybody for eight hours like that feels like the antithesis to what our organism needs yeah but i do think we should also put the caveat like you're the boss it's different you can wear whatever you want you don't report to anyone i'm cracking the whip i mean but billy uh works the tech for the trek as a kindness yeah he he does not need the job whatsoever his nine to five pays him handsomely um anyway um that's mine cool i like it uh let's put a loop uh a segment buffer between that and the triple crown because that was a little bit beefier than probably it was expecting i think we do that when we do early segments yeah because i think we have so much time we're not like watching the clock for seven p.m yeah right you're right about that uh i have a stupid thing of the week if you want to improv anything my stupid thing of the week is so we're potty training leo right now and to do this properly to my understanding is you want to do positive reinforcements or anytime that he goes in the potty you want to make it really exciting in addition to like screaming and clapping and dancing and like getting him really riled up uh i want to get him a treat so what do i default to other than oreos i got oreos within 24 hours i ate a third of the entire container like double stuffed like the family size thing of oreos i probably had 12 in the first 24 hours of me trying to get this as a reward for leo just my ultimate fat boy took over i i have decent self-control with a lot of things oreo might be my biggest grip tonight yeah those are hard i don't keep them in the house don't yeah i leo might never learn to go to the potty because i've eaten all of his incentive i mean i don't know if you should should you reward them with oreos when they use the bathroom i think anything this is not like i'm not going to give him oreos every time he goes to the bathroom for the rest of his life he's gonna be used to it though you're gonna be punishing him no there's a it's the most rewarding schedule for this is called an intermittent reward you've got something to say about that i but it's not yet yeah uh so the it's not effective if you give somebody a reward each time because they have diminishing uh psychological returns on that if when you do an intermittent reward schedule that's when they actually when you get the most positive affect from that tactic interesting yeah um i saw a video on social media i can't remember which social media but it was someone who made a book that came with like stickers it was like a sticker book for kids learning how to use the potty and it was like different adventures they could go on and they put a sticker every time they use the potty to like accomplish certain things sure and there was like a bunch of different tracks right it looked fun i watched this video from start to finish i know how to use the potty yeah but i was like this would be cool sounds a little bit like an advent calendar is that what it's called yeah it's like an advent calendar for shitting yeah um i thought it looked fun you should get it for him get it for him or put one in the bathroom over there sounds like i know what to get trance for christmas yeah i just want to feel rewarded i did it zaddy zaddy come see all right uh triple crown yeah we do have too much energy for the segments right now uh this is the triple crown of things that are the new black i think i pitched this as a joke not thinking that it would actually rachel hears everything yeah she does hear everything she'll read anything in the prompter um so things that are the new black the famous netflix show orange is the new black once by the time black was the black uh so things that are trendy i guess is the easy way of saying it yes where do you want to go on this because i got a lot i don't have any that i i'm pretty confident that mine are unique so if you want to go first that's good with me okay um i had to struggle to not have these all be like fashion um our prompt from rachel is a prompt from zach to rachel to prompt him first it was black then orange now it's day drinking so the day drinking means we can really go rogue here yeah so i'll skip over the drinking margaritas at 3 40 yeah well um i'll skip over the aesthetic ones to try to give some more interest um i think poop's back did poop ever leave poop had i mean if you're a girl poop leaves yeah for a while because you go through the phase of boys where they're like girls don't poop um i farted on garret's leg the other day and he panicked i was like we're still we're still no but like i was sitting on like his leg um so that part he wasn't thrilled about and i was just like we care still um but yeah you're not you're not married and doing we had we had the whole delta thing then we had the delta skit on snl the delta thing yeah the delta poop thing you're obsessed with the delta poop thing what you're not googling this you literally played the audio on the podcast delta airlines yeah i don't know why delta do you know i mean it is a greek letter of the alphabet that's if someone says delta you immediately think of the greek alphabet i was thinking like military operations like there's a lot of things that's weird um then i've been watching bachelor in paradise that was just something that came on the other day i went i got out of my bachelor phase but you're back it plays after golden bachelor so it just is this something that's also the new black or no golden bachelor could be the new the new black but in bachelor in paradise there's a girl who hasn't pooped in nine days and they give her a poop timer like a countdown she has to sunrise to poop or she has to get out and go deliver a poop baby at the hospital oh damn apparently is it just because she's not eating because the producers are pumping her full no i think something in mexico like blocked her up she's eating a lot they gave her a poo poo platter to like make a joke of it yeah um but she's all stuffed up we had they had a doctor come on to talk about like the size of poop babies they've delivered in these scenarios yeah can they just give x lax why are they making they did like it still doesn't come out they've exhausted all options anyway so that was a major plot point yeah um our book plug yeah um poop the moose poop story i sent you the other day of the girl who makes art out of moose poop don't you're spoiling a segment never all i'm saying is poop's back yeah poop is back if poop ever left it's back yeah uh so you could say that brown is the new black brown is the new black nice okay i like that very much for me poop never left but if other people are on board with it being in sign me up uh my first one is i don't even know what this is like i know what it is but i don't know anything about it i just have seen it everywhere of late that's dutch brothers yeah dutch bros i had a rep who was obsessed with them i feel like i've went my entire life without seeing one and then within the span of two weeks i saw a dozen or more they're overrated is this a new chain no there's um i think it's like a mid a southern midwest thing is my guess not upper midwest i can tell you that much well the girl that was obsessed with them was from texas okay but there was one that was in grants pass oregon there was one that was literally around the corner like i could see it from my apartment for my old place never in a million years did i think to go yeah and she googled the ones that were within like a 30 mile radius of me so that i could try it and saw that it was that close and got like offended yeah um is this better or worse than dunkin donuts and them because i know dunkin donuts obviously has like it's cult following people from the east love dunkin donuts i only had it once that was to just like make her happy um how was it what'd you get so it's a drive-through or a walk up okay it's like a little like it's a little shoe box yeah no it's a shoe box and you either walk up to it or you drive through it so the drive-through is really long and they have a lot of options is it just food or is it just drinks or do they have food i don't remember um i just remember they had a lot of options i was really overwhelmed with the choices because that made it hard for me and i panic picked something and it was absolutely fine okay um and like i don't go to dunkin donuts and think like this is great you know like i also leave dunkin donuts and i think this is absolutely fine yeah if that yeah that's a good way sometimes less than but it's a reliable donut i'll give it that i've never gone back that was like three years ago okay um yeah i think it's just one of those things that so many things touch you in your childhood it just becomes ingrained as having sentimental value don't don't don't don't that look that look okay uh nostalgia nostalgia is the new black apparently and nostalgia has always been the black but uh there's a lot of things that we could talk about uh so i'm just curious if the fascination with this place are people that grew up around it and it just reminds them of their childhood i think it's the same tim hortons crowd from a different demographic not demographic but like area right does area fall under demographic uh geography is that part of demographic yeah geography is okay yeah from a different demographic yeah it's usually not what people mean when they say demographic but tim hortons slaps let me tell you that is it good yeah tim hortons rocks they have the best do they exist outside of canada yes northern new york okay we actually couldn't have a starbucks in my college town because we had a tim hortons um apparently they have like i could not compete yeah at least that's that's like the old wives tale yeah um by tim hortons so tim hortons gets the one town in new york and starbucks gets every other corner in the world well they get all of canada right yeah yeah all 12 canadians eh um do i do too yeah i do too okay so dutch brothers is the new black because it's everywhere dutch brothers is my first one my second one is this will be kind of a um extension of our patreon conversation but this is very true for me in my world right now smash burgers not to be confused with the restaurant smash burger which is fine very fine oh you talked about smash burgers on the patreon yeah uh the the fast food restaurant smash burger is i would say good and nothing more nothing less uh but the genre of meal that is smash burgers one i feel like has skyrocketed in recent years and two i'm fully on board i'm fully on board with smash burgers it is the superior form of cheeseburg unless you're going to like a nice restaurant where you can get like a really fancy like wagyu beef all the fixings on it that sort of burger is will always have its place but just like your run-of-the-mill quick burger or even at like a decent sit-down restaurant smash burgers are the jam and i can't see myself growing tired of a smash burger i think it's here to say stay i don't i'm kind of on the fence about a burger in general then i would say you're not qualified to speak on the subject you're not a big burger person that's kind of crazy i love chick chicken burgers chick-fil-a um is good something i i like a burger i like a burger i can't finish one that's fair okay yeah i don't know how else to say it it's just a lot of a lot of that taste i think i'm speaking to burger fans i'm not trying to evangelize that people should like burgers but the people that do like burgers i implore you to give smash burgers a shot if you haven't already because they are good they're damn good you am i interrupting your tech session right now i'm texting sarah about clips she can pull from this for social before i forget yeah good um so you're on your last one yes no i've you've given you get to your last turn is what i might say um this is gonna be a left field one for me just because i'm i could do the triple crown of like aesthetic clothes clothing things i don't think this is our audience yeah um keep them in honorable mentions because i'm sure i have very important thoughts on the subject okay um my second one is going to be red zone red zone is the new black reason why is because tonight for the first time if anyone's not listening on the actual date and wants to search when we actually watched this or recorded this tonight they are doing red zone for hockey first time they've ever done it ever it's kind of a genius idea hockey fans are going wild um and by hockey fans i mean my boyfriend isn't 80 of the game by the net i don't understand no there's a lot of like i mean yeah there's no there's no red zone there's no red i don't actually know if they're calling it red zone i feel like that would it make sense um but they're doing the red zone thing where they like show split screens they show yeah like all that for hockey i'll give the context for people who are not football fans red zone is a channel which um i think it's playing off the fact that fantasy football has become so popular seven hours of commercial free football yes that and it also as the name implies when an offense is in the red zone with in the 20 yard line uh the game cuts to that and i think it just prioritizes whichever game is closest to a scoring situation yeah that's what gets precedence the way you explained it i feel like applies to the people that would already know what it is because you're using football words yeah i'm just saying the people that don't know what red zone is but they won't know like 20 yards that you know um the teams that are close to scoring points the the channel will switch to that game because yes many games are being played simultaneously a lot of a football game is going to be not scoring just setting up to get to the scoring situation this is just just airing the gate the part of the game where somebody is likely to score soon yeah it cuts the fat it cuts the downtime um it shows you when everyone's about to score there can be like four screens in one sometimes more um but hockey's never done it and so hockey today starts at four last game starts at 8 30 from what i've timed they usually run about three hours my boyfriend keeps telling me they run two hours i've learned that's not true so i from my understanding it goes from when you go 4 p.m well last time we went to a high last time we went to an abs game i got in trouble because he caught me listening to an audiobook my hair was down so he couldn't see my headphones in and then he was talking to me and i couldn't hear him he was like he pushed my hair he's like are you listening to something he picked up my phone he's like should be like i'm listening to the game honey he was like you're listening to an audiobook um i couldn't imagine a worse environment to listen to an audiobook it's a low scoring sport yeah that is true but it's high action not always not always confused yeah anyway yeah so they're doing red zone hockey for the first time tonight it's four to 11 and it's all these games that are happening overlapped split screen whatever you want to call it and it is like enough of an affair where they have been talking about it all week like garret's friends coming over they are making sloppy joes they went grocery shopping for this they first off kind of offensive get really really excited when i have the podcast because it's boy's night um usually they use the time it's been a minute since you've recorded a podcast are you sure you're not falling behind schedule well you know what's funny is when his friend like really enthusiastically tells me to have a nice time when i go like i know why you're happy he's always really in a good mood have a great time or i'll come back and you'll be like so what'd you guys talk about like this is the friend and i'm like you had a good time yeah um yeah so they're having a boy's night tonight they're absolutely thrilled they've gone grocery shopping they've been talking about it for weeks and i can only imagine they're gonna do more of these like hockey's not just gonna be like let's try this one fun christmas special let's move on right um so i see i see red zone being the new black sure as it branches into other sports my last one we're all kind of aesthetic here but i'll go for the one that makes me um happiest which is gingers i think gingers are back um not back but the new black yeah um another orange is the new black yes a different kind because first in makeup people started drawing on like little freckles over the bridge of their nose that was a trend for a while um and then there's like a strawberry type of look that people do on tiktok and that's just like a blush that goes over your nose like instead of the sides of your face goes fully over and that's just like imitating our natural complexion like there's been a lot of gingers posting like this new trend is just me waking up cultural appropriation um and i also had a friend from college post a new facebook photo um like a profile photo yesterday and she is now my hair color which i think is lovely so i think gingers are back i think they're in they're the new black people want to be us i accept sweet i wish i had any sort of evidence to say to the contrary but it sounds right yeah sounds good to me yeah it's the times of south park are long gone dark days are over gingers no more day walkers you hear that guys uh sweet that's great did i do three i don't know no you have one more you have one more which means we went out of turn that's okay no i did one you did two i did two now you get one you're right okay i'm used to going first anyways no joke there i'm gonna end this with a backpacking specific thing and i do think this is trendy might be too strong of a word but something that i've only seen recently um tell me if you've seen this tell me if you just heard this one the term the terminus photo everyone's got one right how do you celebrate when you finish it through hike i've seen a lot of terminus shoeys i did too this year yeah and i've vomited in my mouth every time guys that's that's not it is it is never not gross in any context especially long-distance backpacking but sometimes you just got to go i mean we've talked about things that i think are gross or let me say this in my thoughts as someone who got norovirus in millinocket after summoning katahdin you've still got to travel home yeah it's not it's actually i would argue one of the worst times to get sick as someone who was a dragging their hiking partner by the collar through bus depots while they were puking to only think that they got home safe and like like me getting home safe like i didn't get it i've eluded it yeah to then start like i got my flight changed from a non-major airline back to denver at no additional cost to me which never happens and it's because how sick you were i started throwing up on the phone call they were telling me they had to charge me and i was like accepting it but i couldn't push mute fast enough they felt bad enough that they waved it off like don't do a shoey at the terminus yeah sounds like a ferris bueler thing where you need like the keyboard with the sound effects next to you just to get out of something um yeah no that's really gross i hope that's not the new black though i know this is thrown around as a joke often and i don't know the validity behind it maybe it's true but does the alcohol kill any sort of bad things i think for footstuff it's more fungal versus i don't know what's happening with norovirus it's a virus obviously i the to narrow down the amount of things that you're ingesting out of that shoe is just too hard there's something to it though because like you're done you're so ecstatic i celebrated my pct through hike by jumping off of the terminus and then uh fast forward a few weeks and i tore my acl like that can't be connected i mean i'm like not the advocate for someone who doesn't do stupid shit you know like i do dumb things it just seems like after something that monumental you're willing to bite the bullet on whatever sort of ramifications come from it if i were at the terminus and everyone in my hiking party were doing a shoei i would also do are we gonna do a shoei at palooza now i fucking hope not sorry for the aggressive curse to the listener shows up with brand new shoes no this is this goes down in my like same thing i'm not eating eggs yeah um i'm not gonna do a shoei now we have to make a bet where that's part of the table for the shoei for the eggs or the shoei no i'm not and this is the eggs part again where it's like i will drink the entire shoe are you more likely to do a shoei than a raw egg i drank the whole das boot different kind of shoei but that was for the egg yeah that was to make sure that no one gave me the egg would you rather drink an entire das boot or do a shoei i dad das boot every day we're gonna go back there anyway um yeah we got it a shoei for anyone who's not familiar is where i believe you dump a full beer i don't know the quantity of alcohol yeah into your used shoe and then drinks a beer out of the shoe should that be what we do das boot for this year out of our own shoes like a shoei out of our own no no no no we do das boot as normal at that place oh but for a shoei but the person who loses das boot does a shoei now that um the meetup is in denver does open up a whole world of possibilities mara's sitting to my left hahaha drink eggs bitch i'll never forget that uh do you have any i have one honorable mention several um first one being the 90s slash 2000s aesthetic i think that's back in more than just clothing um skinny jeans are out like bell bottomy pants are back in the wide flare gene is back in i saw you wearing a wide flare pant leg skinny jeans are out i'm not gonna look like a loser um the last time i bought trendy jeans was in high school when i or maybe middle school even jinkos when your weight fluctuates you get to buy more jeans more often oh my weight fluctuates it doesn't fluctuate it would have to go in two directions for it to fluctuate but it's just going um like just everything about the 90s 2000s aesthetic is back like you get those videos of things they're posting in stores and it's just like stuff you thought would never come back but also i think this goes full circle with what i was saying before is i think it's just nostalgia no but also i think like the whole scene is coming back because think about i guess to your point a lot of people rocking the 90s stuff were not alive in the 90s or were barely alive in the 90s but for the 2000s britney's book came out today yeah in sync has not been on a major wear back thing since they had that song in the trolls movie um like everyone's waiting for them to release a concert date britney just slammed justin in her book that came out that's all over the news is there any credibility to anything that britney does nowadays yes um wasn't she just like flailing knives around her young kid yeah but as she said they were they were trick knives um kids aren't young anymore but she said a lot of stuff in this book like that she had an abortion with justin like all these things and then justin was putting out cry me a river and all this stuff i mean it's just all over my news feed right now and it's mixed with all these other things the 90s are back the 2000s are back the clothes the people we're talking about yeah all of it it's back my honorable mention is uh specifically semi corny 90s music just 90s music in general it's back yeah like spin doctors i think spin doctors is like the prototypical semi corny 90s song should we keep up with our past episodes and play a clip sure do you know spin doctors i do can you sing me a song before i play it no because i remember it being the name of something but i don't remember the song until you play it i want to hear it i want to know it when you play it yeah sure i'll sing it when you play it i know this song sing it i'm not gonna sing it i know this song i believe you what year were you born 92 let's come out what year were you born 85 yeah that's actually right uh yeah so 90s music to your point all of the 90s bands and 2000s are doing the reunion tours it doesn't really qualify for 90s but i know blinker night 2 is like a big hot ticket item yeah i saw them back when they were in their heyday they played with green day they were co-headlining a concert and green day was so much better it was it was especially bad because green day played before them and to go from green day to blinker day 2 i'm surprised that half the audience didn't leave well i was going to get myself blink tickets as a like make myself feel better for not shelling out for taylor tickets and i asked garrett if he wanted to go and he was like they suck live yeah um travis is really good travis is like one of the best drummers of all time but yeah the cohesion of the whole thing is i think let's give it cool uh nice one more segment before we get to the standards this is i actually got this from a few places but i'll give credit to awesome mcdaniel you've heard that name a lot from our patreon supporters um and should i introduce it or should i just play the audio no i think well say what the segment is called okay this is well actually before i do that so start spreading the news start spreading the news i didn't know what they said the first time you played that i just thought it was that song so now it makes sense who's saying poop there great question probably poly i have no idea yeah probably poly but i have no idea poop is back yeah so this is the second installment of poop news uh this again this is this was sent to me by a few people which means that it was it made quite the splash but here it is see this is a poo poo clock and what we did see is we took them turds and we crammed them in between the number there so that's 132 33 30 now over here we make fecal people and depending upon the shape of their middle turds right there we can do them with big boobs or guts or butts or long legs or short legs see because there's no two turds that are ever like you ever seen a turd the two turds alike no get five bucks a turd for these things so i get jumping right up and down i get excited when i see a turd instead of a cuckoo clock okay so um i i recommended this person as a guest before i yeah remember i sent it to you i was like potential guest yeah i don't know if i could get through that with the way yeah and she just says turd really aggressively yeah so we'll include the link in the show notes here but uh what she's displaying is art that she's made out of literal moose turds yes yeah so she's got a clock she's got some sort of uh this is re when i said poop is back yeah yeah poop is very much back um i won't butcher the video clip by trying to explain it other than you should watch it but yeah there are people out there with ideas and time can you just play a second of that again that was really like that was see this is a poo poo clock and what we did see is we took them turds and we crammed them in between the number there so that's 132 33 30 now over here we make fecal people i don't like it depending upon the shape of their middle turds right there we can do with big boobs or guts or butts or long legs or short legs see because there's no two turds that are ever like you ever seen a turd the two turds alike no poor guy i don't like that trapped in that lady's i feel like she's already sold me something and i haven't given her my credit card yet but she's just gonna take it yeah yeah yeah that that's somebody that that's a that's a strong pitch uh but she's making these things which makes me think that people are buying them so poop is back i mean brown is the new black you could see those going as gag gifts for people with large budgets yeah i sure hope that nobody gives me literal poop don't you this isn't us no one fucking sent us one of these for the studio i'm like you're like i have no no one give me this i'm looking around at all the things people have gotten us fortunately none of these are gag gifts like everything that we have are legitimate actual kindness yeah but uh yeah definitely don't get trance a poop gift guys i'm not gonna display a poo poo clock anywhere i've got my i've got my bird clock definitely don't send poop to trance's house okay we're all on the same page oh that would be an april fools joke if i gave your address and people just mailed you shit yeah the issue is then i gave your address i am being doxed you are a buyer not a renter though i think you could get away with it for me with minimal damage fair not that you should uh mailbag i'll do this you did the review okay dear the trek i was surprised almost astonished to learn today that zack hadn't already known about trinidad colorado trinidad colorado is the sign to all texas hikers that you finally made it out of flatland hell rattan new mexico is also an important city there are legal ramifications in every area and texas travelers who enjoy cannabis have to deal with it every single time the cops there are also apparently well aware it's time for you guys to have an episode about texans coming to colorado for our day hiking or backpacking adventures peace dr nate jones um i can't speak to zack's lack of knowledge about our country that we live in yeah but what i can speak to is us going to texas um we've tried it a couple times we want to do a road trip there if you know any texas-owned brands i was waiting for you to have fun facts about trinidad colorado oh no um this is a pitch this is absolutely a pitch you know anyone in texas who wants to send us on a road trip and send them our way yeah uh also i want to get back on the lone star trail i think that would be a fun section i've been on the lone star no i know i want to bring you back kicking and screaming our trail of the new black i think that would be a fun trail with like the normal water carry you'd have in the desert but alcohol like some water still yeah but some lone star beers i think that could be like one where you have fun with the games yeah the problem is the hiking is so boring yeah well that's where the company yeah the company makes up for it yeah it was java was too dull for that hike for sure oh the underwear that's true there was nothing too dull about that sir i want you to just clip that no let me read you one of my dms from when we last because we've got time to spare because we're doing segments early yeah um also let us know if you like these early segments better or worse um definitely clearly tell we have more time to go off the rails here um this is remember the conversation we had about the guy that wanted to be me sugar daddy yeah okay this is what he sent when we mentioned that underwear photo of me wearing that if you what was it if you like big tits what was the name of what was the underwear uh who needs an ass when you got no who needs big tits when you got an ass like this yeah exactly something like that yeah um i got a dm from him in august um hi trance i'm eternally behind on bpr but i just finished number 165 and you confirmed the existence of a photo of your post 80 dump truck ass this is relevant to my interests how much and i never did you realize you are just pouring gasoline on the fire so the next thing he said there has to be a price now the best part is this is already on the internet you gotta pull it down and then charge for it they're some of the best uh but you can't tell me that like boring hikes aren't better with games because i like that that's how we ended up back there years later and that was one game yeah uh more importantly you should drain that guy for every penny that he's worth should i send him a price yeah should i save x amount for the dump truck ass how much should i say um go 10 grand why not oh no one's gonna pay 10 grand for a photo of my ass that's on the internet covered in underwear no one's gonna pay that you gotta shoot your shot trance no i'm not saying 10 grams don't sell yourself short trance this guy seems pretty horny can you reply to a reply 10k 10k sent uh trance with the margarita is a good time let's go we just got a lot of time here my truth hurts it's time it's time and do we have 22 minutes before i guess i gotta go pick up a pizza oh yeah okay best podcast ever this is by ngtuj i love the show it's actually the only podcast i can listen to i'm not a thru hiker more of a weekend warrior but i find a lot of the information valuable and of course the show is very entertaining i mostly hike in the adirondacks new york i'm hoping maybe someday i'll have time to hike the northville placid trail until then i get to live vicariously through everyone on backpacker radio um like radical hand emoji um squiggly line the diabetic hiker 46 i like that you get very precise with the punctuation i didn't know how to describe those uh thank you to the diabetic hiker 46 we are hopeful to make it to chance's old stomping grounds sometime in 2024 i'll just leave it at that yeah read the texas part earlier but northville placid trail um we're trying our darndest yeah uh if you know anyone in the area who wants to send us there um i think it's gonna happen this year i got good vibes too it's a big year for the northville placid trail they're celebrating an anniversary yeah a milestone um and and orange is the new black so how could they not bring i think the northville placid trail could be the new black of short trails there you go there you go we're hearing it more and more yeah we didn't even know it existed three years ago i have to go to our patreon account to make sure that i'm getting everyone's name everyone's name because i learned in the most recent patreon episode that we weren't including the current list so somebody's fired okay can't be me i'll dm rachel and say hey is zach crazy yeah she'll respond with of course thank you to our chuck norris award winners on patreon that is alex admisty with navigators crafting andrew austin mcdaniel austin ford bradden blair from 13 adventures brent stemberg brian allsopp fables christopher marshburn coach for marrying outdoors dane ish derrick cook eric casper the friendly ghost erica hoffman greg mcdaniel iron hike endurance productions i think that was the one that we missed last time uh our previous time unless you said it on the patreon i think they're new yeah i'm my concern is that i don't know when he started supporting us if anyone's nick lindyming us on these mentions no i think that's what's happening is he's been supporting us for a long time and we haven't been including his name so now we have to say something very nice okay wait say it again say it three times like it's um iron hike endurance productions beetle juice beetle juice yeah juice iron hike endurance productions iron hike endurance productions wow i wonder what they what they do at iron hike endurance production what are they producing what are they producing pretty cool stuff probably go look into it a little bit i bet they produce really cool stuff let's yeah iron hike endurance productions okay what do we got here iron hike dot com uh a little google google snippet is the iron hike endurance series at mohawk mountain i hope that i'm shouting out the right thing is a single or multi-day event that is part hike part trail run part group camping trip part one of the hardest damn things you've ever done and full-on badass mountain footslog i don't know if we've ever heard footslog before uh so i hope that is relevant to it wait now we've got an iron hike endurance productions on youtube now we get to actually confirm um iron hike endurance series is that what i just shout out i don't know yeah i think we're good so shout out to iron hike endurance productions thank you for your support and sorry for the negligence liz seager matt sukup mike poiselle patrick cnciolo soir products spam timothy han so tracy trigger for some reason i don't know why i thought this but for some reason when you said liz seagull i almost said barely know her liz seagull yeah i don't know it doesn't even rhyme yeah is there a joke no i was just trying to remember all my things and for some reason there i just almost said barely know her i think now we have to incorporate liz seager you can follow us at backpacker radio on instagram and tiktok at backpacker pod on x facebook.com slash backpacker radio you can follow jaunce hi i'm on instagram at juliana underscore jaunce if you can get my book i gave her one more longest like ever family and friends on amazon yikes uh appalachian trials and pacific cross trials if you are prepping for either them trails also would be great greatly appreciative of a review okay we're not we still have a whole interview to go follow us on youtube we're doing videos subscribe and follow us on apple podcast spotify or wherever you consume podcasts and that is it for today's show thank you so much for listening and iron hiking during this podcast that's it for today's show happy hiking there's that chirping again how are you not hearing that news flash asshole i've been hearing it the entire goddamn time i've never been one that's had to choose but every time i do i find i lose i guess i'm a loser stomping ground a welcome man for the loving crowd

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dr. Morgan Brosnihan. Dr. Brosnihan runs Blaze Physio, a mobile physical therapy service, from her van, where she helps ailing hikers along the Pacific Crest Trail. We learn all about this novel business idea and go deep on everything to do with injury and injury prevention, including the best training regimen, the biggest mistakes thru-hikers make in terms of inciting injury, which gizmos and gadgets she recommends for hikers, exercises hikers should focus on both before trail and during, and much more. If you’re into exercise science at all, you will enjoy this one. We wrap the show with some news of a grizzly attack in Banff National Park, the weirdest thing we refuse to buy, and a Triple Crown of little things that make you irrationally happy. Darn Tough: Use code “DTLOVE-BACKPACKERRADIO” for 10% off plus free shipping at darntough.com. Vargo Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 20% off at vargooutdoors.com. Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Dr. Morgan Brosnihan Morgan's Instagram Blaze Physio Website Time stamps & Questions 00:05:54 - Reminders: Submit yourself or someone else to be a guest on BPR, fill out the AT 2023 thru-hiker survey, come to the Denver hiker meetup on December 1, and support us on Patreon for bonus content! 00:09:35 - Introducing Dr. Morgan 00:11:20 - Tell us about your titles and what education they require 00:13:33 - What got you into physical therapy? 00:15:56 - Do you have any tips for someone who wants to blend business and hiking? 00:18:25 - What value do people get from telehealth physical therapy versus in person? 00:21:21 - Do you think physical therapists are better at diagnosing injuries? 00:24:20 - Discussion about Morgan’s charging rates and business economics 00:27:30 - Tell us more about your van business setup 00:29:31 - How are your pre-trail injury talks received? 00:32:16 - What are the cliff notes of your pre-trail talk? 00:35:17 - Tell us about some of the most injured people you’ve worked with 00:39:48 - What are some of the best things people should do prior to thru-hiking? 00:42:07 - What’s the best form of weight training for thru-hiking? 00:43:57 - What is the ideal training protocol for someone with gym access? 00:47:25 - Is there a way to find out what 70% of your max daily mileage is? 00:50:50 - Is there a recipe for building in enough rest days? 00:56:00 - Tell us about your Long Trail hike 00:58:10 - Are you fun to hike with or do you diagnose everything you do? 01:00:15 - Is it ever hard to take your own advice? 01:01:50 - Where should someone strike with their foot? 01:04:25 - How do you know if your gate is correct or incorrect? 01:05:23 - What’s your perspective on baby deer legs? 01:08:02 - Discussion about anti-inflammatories  01:10:34 - How do you tell the difference between inflamed and swollen? 01:11:25 - What are the downsides of using ibuprofen chronically? 01:15:40 - What do you suggest future thru-hikers start doing to prepare for their hike? 01:19:50 - How should hikers think about and transition to zero drop shoes? 01:22:48 - How applicable is running to switching shoes and preparing to hike in general? 01:24:57 - How helpful is having your stride analyzed? 01:26:00 - Is there a way to know who is better suited for a thicker midsole shoe? 01:32:20 - What other prep should November listeners do? 01:34:55 - Are there things you see people doing that you know might cause injuries? 01:36:05 - What’s the difference between a loaded pack or a weighted vest? 01:37:15 - Tell us about stretching 01:43:15 - Is it possible to create too much range of motion through stretching? 01:44:52 - What are the best stretches for thru-hikers? 01:47:19 - What can you do to help with restless legs? 01:51:13 - What tools could someone carry for injury prevention and how do they work? 01:57:23 - What about topicals, like CBD? 02:01:51 - What is your take on insoles? 02:04:02 - Where can people learn more from you? Segments Trek Propaganda:  Check out our new shirts! Hiking Couple Killed By Grizzly in Banff National Park by Owen Eigenbrot QOTD: What’s the weirdest thing you need that you just refuse to buy? Triple Crown of little things that make you irrationally happy Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s very spooky episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Andrea Lankford, author of “Trail of the Lost: The Relentless Search to Bring Home the Missing Hikers of the Pacific Crest Trail.” Andrea’s book, and thus our conversation, keys in on the story of three missing hikers on the PCT, all happening in consecutive years between 2015 and 2017. We talk about the specific details of each of these cases, how the official authorities could’ve done better in their searches, how the community rallied to offer their assistance, Andrea’s speculation of what ultimately happened in each case, specific search and rescue tactics, and much more. We wrap the show by sharing a couple of stories about spooky incidents that have happened to us on trail, the triple crown of Halloween songs that slap, and we offer some details of the holiday hiker meetup. We also touch on the deeply saddening news of Donna Sauffley's passing, who was not only a beloved guest on this podcast but also a renowned trail angel. Vargo Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 20% off at vargooutdoors.com. Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Darn Tough: Use code “DTLOVE-BACKPACKER” for 10% off plus free shipping at darntough.com. [divider] Interview with Andrea Lankford Andrea's Instagram Andrea's Website Fowler-O'Sullivan Foundation Time stamps & Questions 00:06:00 - Reminders: take the AT hiker survey, support us on Patreon, submit your poop story for a chance to win a BPR RTIC mug, and attend our hiker meetup on December 1st! 00:10:40 - Introducing Andrea 00:11:12 - Tell us about becoming and being a National Park Service ranger 00:14:00 - At what point did finding missing people become a primary interest of yours? 00:16:45 - Do rangers get trained on communicating with the families of missing hikers? 00:18:04 - What stood out to you in the Grand Canyon case that you carried with you? 00:19:47 - Tell us the basics of the Chris Sylvia case 00:23:03 - How did you supplement the initial search? 00:24:45 - What made you want to step in and assist in the Sylvia case? 00:26:42 - What did his family think had happened? 00:27:30 - What was his roommate’s part in it? 00:29:01 - Why didn’t the police release the report to his family? 00:32:17 - Are you investigating as part of a larger organization? 00:34:15 - Have you dealt with reigniting families’ hopes for finding answers? 00:36:06 - Why does the federal government lack data about people who go missing from public land? 00:38:00 - Tell us about the Fear Gender Paradox 00:40:20 - Did you get involved with the Sylvia case before the others had gone missing? 00:42:00 - If you had to guess, what do you think happened to Chris Sylvia? 00:43:36 - Tell us about the Twelve Tribes 00:48:26 - Tell us the basics of the Kris Fowler case 00:50:44 - What were the various witness sightings of Kris Fowler? 00:52:07 - What do you know about Kris’s mindset before he disappeared? 00:55:00 - Why was Kris Fowler’s case the most prominent of the three? 00:57:10 - What did the investigation into Sherpa’s disappearance entail? 01:02:00 - Tell us the basics of the David O’Sullivan case 01:04:00 - What’s the compelling evidence related to David’s case? 01:06:20 - Why was David’s case so much less well known than Kris’s? 01:07:57 - What were some of the mysterious sightings related to David’s case? 01:09:00 - Tell us about the various search methods used in these cases 01:12:52 - What kind of signs do people leave while hiking? 01:13:50 - Were cadaver dogs used in all three of the cases? 01:15:00 - Tell us about using drones and “squint” searching 01:17:37 - Did anyone go missing in 2018? 01:22:37 - Zach is in the book! 01:25:17 - Do you see any more information or evidence coming to light in any of these cases? 01:26:00 - How can listeners get involved? 01:27:30 - Tips for hikers preparing to thru-hike Segments Trek Propaganda: Beloved PCT Trail Angel, Donna Saufley of Hiker Heaven, Succumbs to Brain Cancer by Owen Eigenbrot QOTD: What’s the spookiest situation you’ve ever been in? Triple Crown of Halloween songs Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Ironhike endurance productions, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are re-re-re joined by listener favorite and our pal, Clay Bonnyman Evans, aka Pony. We catch up on all that Pony's been up to since his last appearance on the show including a thru-hike of the Cape Wrath Trail, which he refers to as the AT of the UK, his trek from Edinburgh to Glasgow, his stint as a caretaker at Woods Hole Hostel, and his latest section hike of the Continental Divide Trail, which he cites as his most psychologically challenging hike to date. In typical Pony fashion, this chat is wild- we get an extended Scottish accent, some explicit poop stories, and we are introduced to the erotic world of hedging. You might be able to guess what that is, either way, you’re soon about to find out. We wrap the show with a feature from a Trek blogger about how backpacking made her less independent, a triple crown of bummer places to be, and Chaunce triggers the internet. Vargo Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 20% off at vargooutdoors.com. Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. [divider] Interview with Clay “Pony” Bonnyman Evans Pony's Instagram Pony's Website  Time stamps & Questions 00:03:48 - Reminders: Check out our new merch, submit your poop story for a chance to win a BPR RTIC mug, and apply to be a blogger! 00:05:35 - Introducing Pony 00:06:02 - Tell us your poop story 00:10:20 - Tell us about caretaking at Woods Hole hostel 00:12:25 - Tell us a second poop story 00:14:38 - Discussion about the murder you got interested in 00:17:35 - Did you consider writing a book about it? 00:19:38 - Tell us about the Cape Wrath trail 00:26:46 - What are the pros and cons of going south or north? 00:28:50 - Are you planning on doing the West Highland Way? 00:29:25 - Did you notice the accent change as you got further north? 00:31:03 - What was resupplying like? 00:33:28 - What was the camping like? 00:38:00 - Anything else you want to share on this hike? 00:40:12 - Do you remember any legends? 00:42:50 - Tell us about hiking from Edinburgh to Glasgow 00:46:33 - Which city would you return to if you could only pick one? 00:47:16 - What’s the hiking culture like? 00:50:24 - Did you do anything between Scotland and going back to the CDT? 00:51:20 - Tell us about hiking alone for the most part 00:58:30 - What constitutes a bad day on the CDT? 01:02:03 - What other things did you do to make you realize you were losing your sanity? 01:05:52 - Is it surprising to you that you’re still learning a lot about yourself? 01:07:54 - Did you have any standout favorite days? 01:11:07 - Did you do any uncommon alternates that you think more people should do? 01:14:15 - What do you attribute red line fever to? 01:17:18 - What led to you still needing to mop up some miles? 01:21:32 - Tell us about recovering from giardia 01:25:02 - How does overdoing it manifest for you? 01:30:00 - Discussion about the weather 01:31:13 - Tell us about the Glacier permit system 01:35:08 - Why don’t the national parks all use the same system? 01:39:30 - Did you have any gear you loved or loathed? 01:43:30 - Do you have any hot takes for us? 01:51:40 - What’s next for you? Segments Trek Propaganda: How Thru-Hiking Made Me Less Independent by Gillian QOTD: What is something you’ve been doing recently to intentionally annoy your partner? Trigger the Internet Triple Crown of bummer places to be Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dr. Nick Brandehoff and Dr. Bryan Wilson of The Asclepius Snakebite Foundation to of course talk all things snakes. We cover everything you could want to know about dealing with snakes and snake bites including what to do if bitten by a snake in the backcountry in a variety of circumstances, what to do if your kid or dog is bitten by a snake, common myths about snakes and snake bites, a fornicate marry kill of snake species, what resources people ought to be aware of in dealing with snake safety, and much more. We wrap the show with the best excuses to get out of work, a triple crown of items over $1,000 that aren't living, and are small enough to be manually lifted, a new segment, trigger warning, a horseback DUI, and more! Vargo Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 20% off at vargooutdoors.com. Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Dr. Nick Brandehoff and Dr. Bryan Wilson Snakebite Foundation Website ASF Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:30 - Reminders: Check out our new merch, submit your poop story for a chance to win a BPR RTIC mug, and apply to be a blogger! 00:08:40 - Introducing Dr. Brandehoff and Dr. Wilson 00:10:00 - Tell us about your backgrounds and how you came to your current roles 00:13:27 - Why does Denver have a high concentration of toxicologists? 00:15:10 - How many snakes do each of you own? 00:15:55 - When you think of snake people, what is the stereotypical snake person? 00:17:15 - Have either of you been bitten by venomous snakes? 00:18:07 - What makes a snake venomous but not dangerous? 00:27:35 - If you get bit by a snake while out hiking, how do you get it to let go of you? 00:29:15 - How far do snakes lunge? 00:31:50 - Have snakes evolved not to rattle? 00:32:12 - If you get bit while hiking, what should you do? 00:35:00 - Discussion about the myth of using electricity to denature venom 00:36:55 - First aid tips 00:38:43 - Is it okay to move to get to medical care? 00:40:20 - Does it make more sense to hike or run? 00:41:48 - Is it a bad idea to try to slow the circulation or elevate the area? 00:42:54 - How does your knowledge impact your outdoor experience? 00:47:11 - Myth busting: are baby rattlesnakes more venomous than adults? 00:50:27 - What kind of venomous snakes are most prevalent in the United States? 00:52:00 - Can you rank the 4 snakes according to how bad it is to get bitten by them? 00:54:05 - Which of the 4 snakes would you most want to get bitten by? 00:57:05 - After you’re bit, how long do you have before a snakebite becomes lethal? 00:59:40 - Tell us about the Appalachian snake people 01:02:00 - Discussion about the long term impacts of snake bites 01:04:40 - Is antivenom the same for all snakes? 01:07:02 - How is antivenom made? 01:09:07 - Why do the antibodies have to be taken from other animals? 01:11:45 - Are you optimistic about the technology of antivenom evolving? 01:12:08 - Is it true that not all hospitals have antivenom? 01:13:50 - Discussion about poison centers (800-222-1222) 01:16:20 - What’s the craziest thing you’ve seen with the poison center? 01:20:57 - What should you do if a child or dog gets bit by a snake? 01:24:56 - Do you have any snake jokes? 01:25:30 - Fuck Marry Kill: water moccasins, rattlesnakes, copperheads 01:26:45 - If you could see any snake in the wild, what would you pick? 01:28:25 - What snake would come out the victor in a bracket? 01:29:55 - What are some rapid fire snake facts? 01:32:30 - Have you ever done any snake pranks? 01:33:35 - Why are people so afraid of snakes? 01:35:00 - Where can people learn more about you and your organization? Segments Trek Propaganda: A Camera as Company: Thru-Hiking in Scotland with a Panoramic Camera by Laura Partain QOTD:  What’s your go-to excuse for getting out of work? Triple Crown of non-living, liftable items you’d want over $1,000 Triggering the Internet Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are giving you an in depth run through on how to choose a backpack for thru-hiking. We are joined today by The Trek's Managing Editor, serial thru-hiker, and certified gear nerd, Owen Eigenbrot. We walk you through all the features, terminology, material types, sizing tips, and more to give you a foundational knowledge on making an educated decision when purchasing a pack for the purpose of a long-distance backpacking trek. We then share some of our top tips and offer a few specific product recommendations at the end of the panel. Whether you're just getting started in the world of backpacking, you're looking to level up your gear for future trips, or you're just curious to expand your knowledge in the world of backpacks, this podcast has got something for you. We wrap the show with a shoutout to the class of 2023 AT thru-hikers, a new segment - poop news of the week, a miserably embarrassing stupid thing of the week, and a triple crown of our preferred caffeine sources. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. [divider] Panel with Owen Eigenbrot Owen's Website Owen's Trek Profile Time stamps & Questions 00:03:38 - Reminder 1: Get an exclusive monthly episode by supporting us on Patreon! 00:05:20 - Reminder 2: We have new merch! 00:06:28 - Reminder 3: Submit your Pooping in the Woods story! 00:07:22 - Reminder 4: Apply to be a Trek blogger in 2024, take the AT survey if you hiked in 2023, and make sure to use our sponsor discount codes when buying gear! 00:08:47 - Introducing Owen 00:09:51 - Give us an overview of your backpacking experience 00:14:31 - Can you introduce the Eastern Continental Trail? 00:17:19 - Introducing the structure of today’s show 00:19:05 - Sizing a pack properly and how to measure your torso 00:25:00 - Adjustable versus fixed-size packs 00:26:55 - Sizing cottage gear packs versus larger manufacturers 00:28:52 - Volume/capacity 00:33:17 - Internal frame vs. external frame vs. frameless 00:37:23 - Men’s vs. women’s vs. unisex 00:40:12 - Traditional vs. ultralight 00:43:28 - Suspension 00:50:24 - Pockets 00:56:00 - Hip belt 01:00:23 - Extension collars 01:01:55 - Closure styles: roll-top vs. cinch cord vs. others 01:06:15 - Straps and buckles 01:10:45 - Price range 01:12:24 - Waterproofness 01:14:25 - Material options 01:24:35 - Bear canister compatibility 01:27:35 - Zach’s Pack Tip #1: Of the big 3, the weight of the backpack is the least important 01:28:47 - Chaunce’s Pack Tip #1: Consider the weight your pack is designed to carry 01:30:48 - Owen’s Pack Tip #1: Use a pack liner 01:34:09 - Zach’s Pack Tip #2: Zach’s overall pack recommendation 01:36:22 - Chaunce’s Pack Tip #2: Chaunce’s overall pack recommendation Segments Trek Propaganda: Congratulations to these 2023 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers: Part 4 by Kendra Slagter Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of caffeine sources 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Al Marriott, known on trail as Lookout. Lookout is a 2023 PCT thru-hiker, and one of the very few who was able to connect their footsteps on a continuous northbound hike through the Sierra. This is the main course of our conversation today as we learn all about the wild conditions Lookout and his crew of 6 fellow hikers endured, including some very close call water crosses, how slow and draining the snow travel was, what snow traction worked best for his group (and it might not be what you expect), the energy requirements for this style of trekking, and the group dynamics of traveling in such close proximity for such a long time through such stressful conditions. This one is a doozy. We wrap the show with a quick overview of how much experience is needed to hike the AT, things that get less appetizing as we get older, and a triple crown of the best places for people watching. CTUG: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at chickentrampergear.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Al “Lookout” Marriott Lookout's Instagram Lookout's Youtube Time stamps & Questions 00:04:02 - Reminders: Apply to be a 2024 Trek Blogger, submit your poop stories, and follow us Patreon!  00:06:59 - Introducing Lookout 00:07:27 - Tell us about your photography setup 00:08:23 - Where are you from? 00:09:56 - Did you do any long distance backpacking in Britain? 00:11:45 - How did you come to bounce between Australia and Thailand? 00:13:16 - What permits did you need to come to the US to hike the AT? 00:17:10 - Did you feel pressure on the AT to make sure your schedule worked? 00:19:27 - What snow hiking experience did you have prior to starting the PCT? 00:20:18 - When you started, did you know you wanted to maintain a continuous footpath? 00:21:55 - Did you run into issues before getting to Kennedy Meadows? 00:26:15 - How did you find a group to enter the Sierras with? 00:31:17 - Did you use snow gear going through Apache Peak? 00:32:25 - What was your start date and when did you reach Kennedy Meadows? 00:32:46 - What was the atmosphere of other hikers on trail? 00:33:49 - Tell us about who you entered the Sierras with 00:38:42 - To what extent did your group plan out your strategy ahead of time? 00:41:38 - Picture of the South Fork San Joaquin Bridge damage 00:42:00 - Were you disappointed to skip that section? 00:45:50 - Narrate your Sierra crossing 00:57:38 - Was bringing the snowshoes a good idea? 01:03:54 - How much dry ground did you see in the Sierra? 01:05:19 - Describe the obstacles you encountered before getting to Bishop 01:06:26 - Tell us about the sketchiest water crossings 01:13:54 - Did those close calls affect your confidence or strategies going forward? 01:15:33 - How much of the Sierra was Type I vs. Type II fun? 01:18:21 - Did having a limited time visa impact your thought processes? 01:21:50 - Tell us about sketchy parts of the next stretch 01:30:16 - Tell us about getting trail magic in the Sierra 01:33:40 - Discussion about conveying what it was like to others 01:37:40 - Story about Stitches 01:44:47 - Did the group stay together or break up after the Sierra? 01:49:55 - Story about getting into Tahoe 02:01:18 - What did you get out of this experience? 02:08:04 - Are there any other gaps in topics related to snow that we could cover in the future? 02:14:16 - What was the longest stretch between resupplies? 02:16:40 - Where should people go to follow you? Segments Trek Propaganda: Can You Hike the Appalachian Trail with No Backpacking Experience? by Diane Duffard QOTD: What’s something that gets less appetizing the older you get? Triple Crown of the best places for people watching Mail Bag 5 Star Review Patreon Austen's Hike Update [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are giving you a thorough breakdown on all things backpacking tent related. We are joined by The Trek's Managing Editor, accomplished thru-hiker, and gear encyclopedia, Owen Eigenbrot. We introduce today's panel by giving you a thorough run-through on everything you need about backpacking tents, including the various types of tents, feature sets, terminology, material options, and more. We then do a roundtable offering our top actionable advice for picking a tent, considerations to make, and a few of our favorite specific models. Whether you're new to backpacking, are looking to level up your gear, or are curious about the various nuances of the world of tents, this podcast has something for you. We wrap the show with a triple crown of Taylor Swift songs (Owen is a certified Swiftie), we share some of our strangest beliefs, and we offer a not-so-happy update on the status of Backpacker Radio's Iceland Trip. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. CTUG: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at chickentrampergear.com. [divider] Panel with Owen Eigenbrot Owen's Website Owen's Trek Profile Timestamps & Questions 00:03:49 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon, Iceland is off, leave us a voicemail, and apply to be a Trek blogger! 00:06:48 - Introducing Owen 00:08:07 - What’s your backpacking background? 00:10:44 - What are the basics of the Eastern Continental Trail? 00:12:32 - Introducing the structure of today’s show 00:16:10 - Tent capacity 00:21:00 - Tarps and bivvies 00:23:50 - 3 vs. 4 season 00:27:25 - Single vs. double wall 00:35:05 - Trekking pole vs. (semi) freestanding 00:46:06 - Tent weight variations 00:53:18 - Common materials 01:14:25 - Bathtub floor 01:16:05 - Door location 01:19:42 - Height 01:22:55 - Bug protection 01:23:32 - Pockets 01:24:38 - Stakes 01:31:52 - Tent terminology 01:36:30 - Footprints 01:41:36 - Zach’s Tent Tip #1: If you’re new to backpacking, go with a semi-freestanding tent 01:48:54 - Owen’s Tent Tip #1: Don’t give up on 1-person shelters 01:51:10 - Chaunce’s Tent Tip #1: Measure how tall you are when sitting straight up 01:52:30 - Zach’s Tent Tip #2: Broadest audience tent recommendation 01:55:03 - Owen’s Tent Tip #2: Have realistic expectations about tents in general 01:57:00 - Chaunce’s Tent Tip #2: Consider the terrain you’ll be hiking in 01:58:01 - Owen and Chaunce’s tent recommendations Segments Trek Propaganda: The 15 Best Long-Distance Trails in the US by Diane Duffard QOTD: What is the strangest thing you believe in? One Minute Gear Review: Free Fly Bamboo Lightweight Hoodie Triple Crown of Taylor Swift songs 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Jonathon Stalls. Jonathon is a wildly interesting character who, in 2010, in search of meaning and healing, decided to walk across the length of the country. We learn all about this transformative journey, some of the standout stories along the way- including some instances of the unforeseen kindness of strangers, his alter ego of Cate Blanchett flaring up through the desert, how he was able to fund this journey, an epic poop story, how this expedition turned into his book "WALK: Slow Down, Wake Up, and Connect at 1-3 Miles Per Hour." and his current advocacy work in making urban spaces more pedestrian friendly. This is a deep and honest conversation- and we’d like to offer a trigger warning to listeners that the following interview touches on talks of suicide.  We wrap the show with a triple crown of TV shows and movies we've watched recently, a brief comparison of the Colorado Trail vs. the John Muir Trail, and a stupidest thing of the week- Zach losing his mind due to sleep deprivation edition. CTUG: Use code “Backpackerradio” to save 15% on your order at chickentrampergear.com Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com    [divider]   Interview with Jonathon Stalls Jonathon’s Instagram  WALK: Slow Down, Wake Up, and Connect at 1-3 Miles per Hour by Jonathon Stalls Intrinsic Paths Website Intrinsic Paths/Jonathon Stalls Patreon  Jonathon on TikTok   Time stamps & Questions 00:03:53 - If you can only go to one burger spot in Colorado for the rest of your life, where are you going?  00:05:22 - Reminders: If you have a good poop story, submit it here. We are now accepting 2024 blogger applications for The Trek. Apply today!  00:09:05 - Introducing Jonathon Stalls  00:10:15 - Tell us about your dad playing in the NFL  00:13:00 - Are you a football fan today?  00:13:58 - Would Zach let his boys play football?  00:15:06 - What was your sports background?  00:16:58 - How did you get into beach volleyball?  00:20:23 - How much of your life was portrayed in the movie Point Break?  00:20:40 - Where does walking come into play? 00:26:31 - What in Ireland brought out the new approach to life?  00:29:30 - What was your reaction to what you were learning in Ireland?  00:34:57 - How did your mom respond to you coming out?  00:37:23 - How should others approach the conversation?  00:40:45 - Did you know nature was healing to you prior to this hike?  00:42:12 - Walk us through deviating from the American Discovery Trail  00:46:37 - Did you have to pay the funding back?  00:47:30 - Do they give you feedback on what businesses you help?  00:49:42 - How did you select your walking route?  00:55:28 - Let’s hear a poop story!  01:06:40 - How did you balance wanting to be in nature and wanting to engage with communities?  01:10:25 - Did you also find healing in the interaction with others?  01:12:37 - Explain the practices you used to find kinship with nature  01:16:20 - Do you have a favorite tree?  01:19:29 - Do you have a desire to reinvent yourself on a long trail?  01:23:25 - Do you find it frustrating to see the direction of society today?  01:26:13 - What are some wins you’ve witnessed in your work?  01:29:42 - What parts of Denver are most walkable?  01:33:29 - Have you walked the full length of Colfax?  01:34:30 - Tell us about “Walk to Connect” and “Walking Leaders”  01:38:37 - Was there a stretch of trail that wasn’t enjoyable?  01:45:23 - Do you have a specific term for your cross-country walk?  01:45:55 - Was there a specific moment where you felt you were healing on your journey?  01:48:38 - Is there anything about the journey or the book you’d like to relay to listeners?  01:50:32 - What do we need to know about pedestrian dignity?  01:52:54 - Zach Anner & The Quest for the Rainbow Bagel 01:57:00 - Impact of TikTok  01:59:00 - Wrap up: Where to find Jonathon Stalls   Segments  Trek Propaganda: The Colorado Trail vs. The John Muir Trail: Which Trail is Better? By Katie Jackson  Thing of the Week Triple Crown of shows/movies you’ve watched recently 5 Star Review   [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns.   A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are talking all things ultralight backpacking. We're joined by our pal and thru-hiker extraordinaire, Carl Stanfield aka "Professor", as the three of us share some of our top tips for reducing pack weight. The advice in this episode covers the full spectrum, from broad-based philosophical ways to approach what should and should not be in your pack, to more granular tips for simple and cost-effective ways of going UL. Whether you're hoping to thru-hike a triple crown trail or lighten the load a bit for your weekend outing, this one has insightful and practical pointers for you. We wrap the show with a quick overview of a new ultralight material being used for tarps and tents- and the relative pros and cons, but more importantly, we do the triple crown of the top benefits of an alien invasion which devolves into the most insane debate in Backpacker Radio history. Chaunce goes pure red face.   CTUG: Use code “Backpackerradio” to save 15% on your order at chickentrampergear.com Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com  PACT Outdoors: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off and free shipping at pactoutdoors.com. [divider] Panel with Carl Stanfield  Carl’s Instagram  Time stamps & Questions 00:03:58 - Reminders: Join us in Iceland for Summer of 2024! Support us on Patreon! Lastly, if you have a good poop story, submit it here!  00:09:34 - Welcoming Carl “Professor” Stanfield  00:09:49 - What have you been up to lately?  00:13:23 - What do you do with your short break?  00:14:39 - How many days did you get off?  00:17:24 - What was your day-to-day?  00:20:24 - Tell us about your new girlfriend! 00:22:21 - Can you give us a brief overview of your hiking resume?  00:23:30 - Panel introduction: Ultralight Backpacking  00:26:30 - Chaunce’s #1: Get used to doing less  00:31:03 - Professor’s #1: Be adaptable 00:34:41 - What does everyone do when you don’t have a utensil?  00:38:11 - Badger’s #1: Don’t carry too much water  00:49:59 - Chaunce’s #2: Compare weights when shopping for gear  00:53:38 - Professor’s #2: Of the big 4, invest in a lightweight tent  01:09:30 - Shelter satisfaction results from The Trek’s hiker survey  01:12:24 - Badger’s #2: Remove redundancy  01:36:00 - Chaunce’s #3: You don’t need to bring your hobbies with you  01:48:17 - Professor’s #3: Dial in your food consumption  02:07:11 - Professor’s Hot Take: Make up for calories in town  02:10:47 - Chaunce’s Final Thoughts: Eat your dinner to get your dessert  02:17:00 - Zach’s #3: Use Smart Water bottles instead of Nalgenes 02:24:00 - Panel wrap-up Segments  Trek Propaganda: UltraTNT: The Newest Material for Ultralight Tarps & Tents By Joal and Jenny  Triple crown of alien invasion benefits  [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by long-distance thru-rider Gillian Larson. Yes, thru-rider. Gillian has more than 10,000 backcountry wilderness miles via horseback, including two thru-rides of the Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, the Arizona Trail, and the Colorado Trail. Gillian was the youngest person to solo-thru ride the PCT in 2014, and became the first person to thru-ride both the PCT and CDT. We of course ambush Gillian with an onslaught of ignorant questions of what it takes to complete one of these long trails via horseback. We went into this chat assuming the logistics of a thru-ride were tough, and oh boy, did we underestimate that. A fascinating conversation, we think you'll really dig this one. We wrap the show with a recap and some of Badger's top takeaways from his recent 3-night trek through Washington's Goat Rock Wilderness, a triple crown of things that float, and what range of times are appropriate for dinner. Visit Iceland with Chaunce and Badger: Registration is live for our 2024 trip to Iceland. Come and hike to glaciers, waterfalls, and secret lagoons with your favorite podcast hosts. More info here!  Goodr: Use the code “Backpacker” for a free shipping discount at www.goodr.com/backpacker  Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER20” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com PACT Outdoors: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off and free shipping at pactoutdoors.com. Interview with Gillian Larson Gillian Larson Instagram  Gillian Larson Website  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:02 - Reminders: We’re still collecting poop stories for our book. Send your story here! Join us in Iceland for Summer of 2024! 00:08:30 - Introducing Gillian  00:09:11 - What got you into the horse life?  00:10:50 -Did your mom ever nudge you in the direction of competitions?  00:12:18 - Was your mom excited about your thru-riding adventures?  00:14:10 - Do you have siblings?  00:14:34 - How old were you when you completed your solo ride?  00:17:08 - How did you prepare for a thru-ride?  00:21:09 - How do you manage two horses at a time?  00:24:32 - What differentiates a pack horse from a riding horse?  00:25:50 - When you get off to walk, what is generally the reasoning?  00:27:05 - Do horses sweat?  00:27:34 - Are they at risk for dehydration?  00:28:40 - Do you have to hide the water caches off trail?  00:29:31 - If you walk with the horses, do you have to guide them with a leash?  00:30:27 - Do horses respond to their names?  00:32:34 - Are horses spooked by thunderstorms?  00:32:58 - How much is a horse’s personality nurture vs. nature?  00:34:25 - How much does it cost to feed a horse a day?  00:35:40 - After the desert, are you able to rely on grass for feeding?  00:39:34 - How did you handle finding routes with the low meadow access?  00:42:53 - Tell us about the camping experience  00:44:52 - Do you have the same permit system as hikers?  00:46:36 - Do you have to change horseshoes?  00:49:20 - Can you replace shoes on trail?  00:50:30 - How much does it cost for shoe maintenance?  00:54:08 - If you didn’t have support, how did you manage trail towns?  00:56:10 - Do you have any instances where you’d go to town without any support?  00:57:36 - Would you say thru-riding prevents you from having a social experience on trail?  00:58:20 - Is it ever tricky to rely on help from online fans?  01:03:15 - Is that the common way to self-support?  01:04:10 - Do you feel compelled to complete the whole trail, in a purist way?  01:06:22 - Is there etiquette around horse poop on trail?  01:08:40 - Horse poop not smelling like horse poop  01:10:54 - Were you able to connect all the miles on the PCT in 2014?  01:13:15 - Have you ever let hikers ride your horses?  01:14:14 - Any wild animal encounters?  01:16:48 - Do the horses have any favorite snacks?  01:17:42 - How do horses react when seeing a moose?  01:19:31 - What animals are horses afraid of?  01:20:25 - Can a horse outrun a cougar?  01:22:11 - Do you carry bear spray?  01:23:57 - How does your bond change with your horses when thru-riding?  01:33:42 - What other gear do you carry that a backpacker wouldn’t?  01:37:21 - What trail is most horse-friendly?  01:39:11 - Is there a reason you picked the PCT for a second ride?  01:40:48 - If someone wanted to do this, what should they budget for?  01:43:09 - How long does a saddle last?  01:45:48 - Do you know you share a name with someone on Survivor?  01:47:17 - What does “retiring” a horse consist of?  01:48:32 - What should people do if they see a horse on trail?  01:51:16 - Is there a standard distance that a hiker should stand away from the horse?  01:52:08 - Can you get a DUI on a horse?  01:52:25 - What are your favorite horse-girl movies?  01:55:08 - Where can people get in touch with you?  01:57:05 - What is an FAQ that we haven’t asked?  01:58:18 - Thank you Gillian!    Segments  QOTD: What timeframe is appropriate for dinner?  Thing of the Week  Triple Crown of things that float  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Sara Leibold. Sara is a solo adventurer, thru-hiker, writer, and vlogger with more than 10,000 human-powered miles under her belt. Her adventures include several thru-hikes, for which we zoom in on her hikes of the AT, Benton MacKaye, and most recently, the Hayduke. We also learn about her wild adventure of rowing the length of the Mississippi River, from source to sea. And we get a run down on Sara's many odd jobs, including ridge running on the AT, working in production for ESPN, and more. We wrap the show with sad news of an AT hiker who turned up deceased in Vermont, the triple crown of worst appetizers, and what petty hills we are willing to die on. But first. Visit Iceland with Chaunce and Badger: Registration is live for our 2024 trip to Iceland. Come and hike to glaciers, waterfalls, and secret lagoons with your favorite podcast hosts. More info here!  Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Interview with Sara Leibold Sara Leibold Instagram  Sara on YouTube  Sara’s Website Time stamps & Questions 00:03:38 - Reminders: We’re still collecting poop stories for our book. Send your story here! Join us on Patreon for more chaos!  00:07:27 - Welcoming Sara  00:08:01 - How did you get your trail name, Tide?  00:8:48 - Tell us about your Master’s thesis  00:10:14 - Why focus on the Arizona Trail?  00:11:41 - Were you able to capture cause and effect?  00:12:50 - Did your interest in low impact travel stem from your graduate program?  00:13:45 - How do you define low impact travel?  00:14:38 - Is there a style of outdoor adventure that’s lower impact?  00:15:08 - Who did you pull your low impact inspiration from?  00:15:50 - Can you give us your trail resume?  00:18:30 - When was your AT start and finish date?  00:19:29 - What put the AT on your mind?  00:20:00 - Did you complete it in four months?  00:20:26 - Did you have a light pack at least?  00:20:38 - What was the response to doing the AT in 2011?  00:21:44 - Did you let your hair grow throughout your hike?  00:22:00 - Any big highlights from the AT?  00:22:47 - Tell us about your river trip  00:23:54 - What was your sport in college?  00:24:10 - Tell us about the Suwannee river 00:24:40 - What was it like traveling with your dad?  00:25:17 - Did you do the full length of the river?  00:25:40 - How did you plan for your river trip?  00:26:30 - Tell us about the Natchez Trail bike ride  00:27:19 - How long did it take you? 00:27:44 - Are you a fast swimmer as well  00:28:10 - Are all of your trips intentionally low impact?  00:29:09 - What brought you back to that AT after your bikepacking trip?  00:30:56 - Did you encounter a lot of weekend warriors?  00:32:04 - What type of crash course tips could you give a new hiker?  00:33:20 - What is that smell experience like?  00:35:12 - What’s the turnover rate for ridge runners?  00:36:36 - How often did you encounter bears in the Shenandoah?  00:38:03 - What are the redeeming qualities of ridgerunning?  00:40:10 - Do you have housing for ridgerunning?  00:40:34 - What’s the time commitment?  00:41:57 - Do you have insider names or terminology?  00:44:59 - What was the best culinary experience of the Camino? 00:46:24 - Tell us about the Anna Purna Circuit?  00:37:31 - What was drawing you to international hikes?  00:48:07 - Did you ever feel a pull to go do the PCT or CDT?  00:49:15 - How did you sustain a lifestyle of year-round hiking and traveling?  00:50:12 - Did you ever have doubts living your lifestyle?  00:51:56 - Do you have any advice for people stuck in the comparison phase? 00:53:09 - Do you foresee yourself settling for a different lifestyle?  00:55:13 - Where do you think you gained your independence?  00:56:13 - Tell us about your source-to-sea adventure  00:58:18 - What did you do for butt padding?  00:58:45 - Was it similar to college rowing?  00:59:35 - Are there stretches where you could swim?  01:00:17 - How do you manage going through a lock and dam?  01:02:29 - Was any of this Type 2 fun?  01:03:12 - What’s the safety like?  01:05:30 - How long did it take you?  01:05:53 - What job opportunity presented itself?  01:06:48 - How did you fall into this job?  01:09:58 - What are your top favorite seasonal jobs?  01:13:19 - Do you ever take souvenirs from the US Open?  01:16:51 - Anything else notable about your Mississippi voyage?  01:18:36 - What was on your gear list for the Mississippi trip?  01:19:52 - What do you eat?  01:20:10 - What are redeeming qualities of cold soaking?  01:22:09 - What do you cold soak in your resupply boxes?  01:24:12 - How did you land in the hospital? Ramen overdose?  01:27:30 - Tell us about the Netherlands/Belgium bikepack trip?  01:31:18 - How much time are you spending on the bike vs. exploring cities?  01:31:55 - What would you recommend for those hoping to do a similar trip?  01:33:12 - Tell us about your Benton MacKaye hike 01:33:50 - What is a census job?  01:36:15 - How did the Pinhoti compare to the Benton MacKaye trail?  01:37:31 - What’s the elevator pitch for the Benton MacKaye trail?  01:39:05 - Tell us about the Hayduke  01:43:43 - Where did things get scary?  01:46:06 - How did you prepare for the Hayduke?  01:54:50 - At what point did you feel the imposter syndrome dissipate?  01:56:04 - How has doing the Hayduke impacted future hikes?  01:57:31 - Tell us about the book you’re writing?  02:00:02 - Thank you, Sara!  Segments  Trek Propaganda: Missing Appalachian Trail Hiker Found Dead in Vermont by Owen Eigenbrot QOTD: What is a petty hill you would die on?  Triple crown of worst appetizers  Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews  [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Heidi Nisbett aka Sketch. Heidi is a thru-hiker, hiking guide, and an exceptionally talented artist, having recently been commissioned to paint a giant mural at the Trail Center in Damascus. Heidi gives us the lowdown on why she loved the Foothills Trail, the Superior Hiking Trail, Pinhoti Trail, and more. We also go in-depth on Heidi's journey as an artist, how she fell in love with it as a kid, fell out of love with it post-college, and rekindled the flame during her time hiking the AT. She shares her top advice to aspiring trail-focused artists, we learn about a CDT thru-hike that went wildly awry, and we chat the best and worst beer styles. This is another fun chat guaranteed to bring a smile to your head. We wrap the show with reasons why the Florida Trail is actually awesome, I'm shamed for liking things I'm good at, we do a triple crown of hiking things we just don't get, a Florida Man segment, and much more.  Visit Iceland with Chaunce and Badger: Registration is live for our 2024 trip to Iceland. Come and hike to glaciers, waterfalls, and secret lagoons with your favorite podcast hosts. More info here!  Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. PACT Outdoors: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off and free shipping at pactoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Heidi Nisbett  Heidi Nisbett Instagram  Sketching Summits website Sketching Summits TikTok  Time stamps & Questions 00:03:05 - Reminders: Chaunce is unwell & we’re still collecting poop stories for our book. Send your story here!   00:08:54 - Introducing Heidi Nisbett 00:09:42 - Is it safe to say you’re a beer connoisseur?  00:09:55 - What’s the style of beer you’re into now?  00:10:07 - Do you have a favorite wheat beer?  00:10:24 - What is your trail name and the origin?  00:11:10 - Why didn’t you like the name Picasso? 00:11:56 - What did Picasso do for art history?  00:12:45 - Were you sketching at all shelter logs?  00:13:58 - How long do the paintings take you?  00:14:58 - Was it hard to maintain a social group if you stop to paint?  00:15:40 - Do most people break up with art after their degree?  00:20:07 - When did art stand out as something you were talented in?  00:20:50 - Do you come from artsy people?  00:22:58 - At what point were you getting positive feedback on your art?  00:23:40 - What role did social media play as you re-entered the art world?  00:26:13 - What happens between your art career and hiking the AT?  00:29:11 - How does a paint and sip class work?  00:30:44 - What tips do you have for amateur artists?  00:34:00 - Tell us about your style of art now  00:35:08 - How would you describe the style of art?  00:37:36 - How did you transition from art girl to hiking girl?  00:40:28 - What was your hiking experience prior to the AT?  00:42:06 - Tell us about the evolution of your art as you hiked along the AT?  00:44:46 - How did you decide to make your art your full-time business after hiking?  00:47:20 - What draws people in the most?  00:48:40 - How do you overcome imposter syndrome?  00:49:50 - Tell us about your work with the ATC  00:52:52 - Was that your first mural?  00:54:40 - How does it work when painting around features in the room?  00:55:44 - Is this the piece of art that has consumed the most amount of your time?  00:55:52 - What is the second longest?  00:56:51 - What’s the most popular piece of art?  00:57:22 - What do you mail most often?  00:59:07 - How do you determine what to turn into a sticker?  01:00:23 - Have you asked if the Pinhoti has any mural needs?  01:02:10 - How was the Pinhoti?  01:04:30 - Why pick the Pinhoti over other trails?  01:05:48 - How does the difficulty compare to the AT?  01:06:54 - Is there a bad time of year to hike the Pinhoti?  01:08:01 - Would you pick Pinhoti or Superior Hiking Trail?  01:09:42 - How was the Foothills Trail?  01:11:57 - What’s the hiking culture in North Carolina?  01:12:56 - Are you familiar with the Overmountain Trail?  01:15:23 - FMK…Beer styles  01:16:53 - FMK…Landscape, Animal, or People Artwork  01:18:30 - FMK…Watercolor, Oils, or Acrylic Paintings 01:19:07 - FMK…Pinhoti, Superior Hiking Trail, or Mountains to Sea trail 01:20:36 - How did the CDT attempt go?  01:23:24 - Tell us about the double helicopter evacuation you witnessed  01:30:33 - Were you able to enjoy fun van activities?  01:31:27 - What’s the proposal story?  01:35:40 - Tell us about guiding  01:38:12 - How do you experience a hike differently as a guide?  01:39:19 - If someone wants you as their guide, how do they request that?  01:40:53 - Tell us about your watercolor trips?  01:43:11 - Did your art background play a role in getting hired as a guide?  01:44:16 - Do you have any advice for someone who is trying to find their start in the art world?  01:46:25 - What was your top hike in Guatemala?  01:47:53 - What did you say your husband does?  01:48:15 - Thank you, Heidi!   Segments  Trek Propaganda: 11 Reasons The Florida Trail Is Awesome by Owen Eigenbrot QOTD: What is something you’re good at, but don’t enjoy doing?  Voicemails  Thing of the week  Triple crown of hiking things you just don’t get  Florida man + birthdate  Gross or Not Gross Chaunce QOTD: How is it living with Garrett?  Mail Bag 5 Star Review   [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by new Executive Director at the Colorado Trail Foundation, Tisha McCombs. Tisha gives us a rundown on her journey to becoming the head at the CTF, what her vision is for the Colorado Trail moving forward, all that goes into maintaining the CT and where help is most needed, and much more. We also chat a bit about the role mountain biking plays into sustaining many trails throughout Colorado, what her top advice is to aspiring adventurers - coming from the perspective of an adventure and life coach, and a fuck marry kill of the sections of the Colorado Trail. We wrap the show with a triple crown of ways to insult thru-hikers, a review of the updated version of the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite from a former guest of the show, and a new segment, plug me.   PACT Outdoors: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off and free shipping at pactoutdoors.com. Visit Iceland with Chaunce and Badger: Registration is live for our 2024 trip to Iceland. Come and hike to glaciers, waterfalls, and secret lagoons with your favorite podcast hosts. More info here!  Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER20” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Tisha McCombs Tisha McCombs Instagram Colorado Trail Foundation  Time stamps & Questions 00:05:02 - Reminders: Find us on YouTube and Patreon  00:06:03 - Introducing Tisha McCombs  00:06:24 - Does Tisha give us Mims vibes?  00:07:22 - Packing resupply boxes  00:13:16 - Walk us through your previous work prior to your new role with the CT 00:15:45 - Check out the CTF store 00:16:45 - Should we treat this as trading cards?  00:17:37 - Between CA and CO, what are some National Park recommendations you’d give?  00:19:20 - Tell us about your other non-profit experience  00:20:04 - Were you responsible for the Palisade Plunge?  00:20:50 - Were you primarily managing people at COPMOBA?  00:21:37 - What are some of the challenges with volunteer work?  00:23:36 - Have there been any oopsies with volunteers?  00:25:08 - Are the trails for hikers as well, or only mountain bikers?  00:25:46 - Is there any tension between mountain bikers and hikers?  00:29:24 - Do mountain bikers think e-bikers are lazy?  00:29:46 - How much do e-bikes and dirt bikes impact trails compared to mountain biking?  00:33:36 - What are the rebates that CO is giving on e-bikes?  00:36:30 - If you could only bike or hike the rest of your life, what would you pick?  00:37:15 - How does the spine injury impact wearing a backpack?  00:38:35 - Do you have a favorite pack that helps?  00:39:41 - The CT is a multi-purpose trail. How do you make decisions that benefit all uses?  00:43:34 - Do you get funds from dirt bike tags?  00:45:19 - How does trail maintenance differ between mountain biking and hiking?  00:46:33 - What would you like to do differently as the new Executive Director of the CTF?  00:51:53 - What type of money does it take to maintain trails?  00:59:15 - Why do you think there is so much interest in making the CT the best maintained trail in the US?  01:02:18 - How do you increase volunteer interest?  01:06:26 - Did you go through similar feelings with your son?  01:08:09 - Did you ever get resistance from your son when trying to bring him to your activities?  01:11:17 - What are some specific needs of the CTF? 01:15:17 - What’s one of the best trail crew meals you’ve had?  01:16:22 - If options were endless, what would you do for the CT? 01:17:40 - What logistics would go into removing road walks?  01:18:55 - What are your two other wishes for the CTF?  01:21:59 - Are there any transportation recommendations?  01:22:58 - What about park & ride options?  01:24:01 - Are there apps for private parking spaces?  01:26:16 - What are top business ideas for someone who wants to offer value to the trail?  01:29:18 - Is there anywhere along the trail to do mail drops?  01:31:39 - Is there a shuttle into Lake City?  01:33:59 - Tell us about your work as a life coach  01:37:33 - Is there one element that merges adventure, career, and trauma?  01:40:23 - Are there any go-to fly fishing spots along the CT?  01:41:51 - Is it catch-and-release along the trail?  01:42:20 - FMK for Colorado Trail Segments  01:45:15 - Thank you, Tisha!  01:45:43 - Visit www.coloradotrail.org   Segments  QOTD: How old are you in your mind?  Trek Propaganda: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad Review Thing of the Week QOTD 2: What’s the most unethical thing you’d do to save money?  Triple Crown of ways to insult thru-hikers  Mail Bag/Plug Me: The Unseen by Mike Clelland 5 Star Review  [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.   A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns.   A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by fellow Goldenite, Andrew Terrill. Starting in 1997, Andrew walked more than 7,000 miles from the southernmost point of Italy to northern Norway, an 18-month journey across the wild parts of Europe. Needless to say, learning about this unique and fascinating trek is the focus of today's chat, as we learn what inspired Andrew to take on this route that no one had ever done previously, how he was received by locals throughout his journey, standout stories from his adventure- including running into the Italian mafia, his favorite stretches of trail, and how this journey helped him overcome his social anxiety. This hike is unlike anything we've ever featured on the podcast, and we think you'll really enjoy learning more about Andrew's story.  We wrap the show with news of a giveaway The Trek is hosting, featuring nearly $15,000 worth of backpacking gear, what our "liked it before it was cool" brags are, the Triple Crown of things that are the modern-day cigarette, and an epic listener email on the legality of stabbing people who enter your tent. Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. PACT Outdoors: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off and free shipping at pactoutdoors.com. Goodr: Use code “BACKPACKER” for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER20” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Andrew Terrill Andrew Terrill Website Andrew’s Instagram Andrew’s Facebook  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:55 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon 00:05:54 - Introducing Andrew Terrill  00:06:31 - Tell us about living in Golden, CO  00:07:04 - Why Golden instead of other Colorado cities?  00:07:59 - How did you meet your wife?  00:10:23 - Were you appreciative of the email addresses?  00:11:14 - What was the inspiration for your journey?  00:14:25 - What were you doing for work at the time? 00:15:28 - Did you get any support in quitting your job to hike?  00:17:10 - Can you tell us the scary story from the Pyrenees?  00:20:36 - What injuries did you get?  00:22:58 - How did that experience not make you shy away from hiking?  00:23:50 - Did you dread sharing the news of your fall?  00:25:02 - It’s 1997, how did you plan the logistics?  00:27:58 - How many times was the lucky coin unlucky?  00:29:26 - Did your fall make you want to pursue risk more?  00:31:07 - Tell us about being warned of the mafia  00:34:10 - Do you speak Italian? 00:34:32 - Was the threat of the mafia present through the full trip?  00:36:32 - Tell us about your gear back then?  00:39:30 - What happens when you leave Calambria?  00:40:51 - What mistakes did you think you made?  00:42:12 - Tell us about getting lost?  00:45:42 - What were the logistics of camping on this journey? 00:48:26 - Why did you get turned away from the hotel?  00:50:52 - Tell us about the shepherds you met along the way? 00:55:28 - What there a specific turning point?  00:56:25 - Tell us about your encounter with wild boars 00:57:41 - Any bear or wolf encounters?  01:01:23 - How did you overcome your social anxieties?  01:08:12 - Do you attribute your hike to resolving those anxieties?  01:09:22 - Tell us about hiking through the Dolomites  01:11:36 - Were there other historic sites you stumbled upon?  01:12:30 - Can you give us more specifics about the route you took?  01:13:50 - How do you handle the Alps in the winter?  01:20:41 - Is it challenging to plan food resupply?  01:22:15 - Were you ravenous after this journey?  01:22:45 - Did you have any unique culinary experiences?  01:23:54 - What types of freelance work were you doing for money?  01:25:03 - Did you ever lose any film?  01:25:38 - If you could highlight a 50-100 miles stretch in each of the countries, which would you recommend?  01:28:14 - Are there polar bears in the arctic?  01:29:08 - What kind of wildlife is there?  01:30:01 - Did you deal with short days in Norway?  01:30:36 - Did you have trouble sleeping?  01:30:52 - What should we ask you?  01:33:34 - If someone wants to follow your route, what advice would you give?  01:35:00 - Books: The Earth Beneath my Feet and On Sacred Ground   SEGMENTS QOTD: What was your “I liked it before it was cool” brag?  Trek Propaganda: It’s Still Summer Giveaway  Stupidest thing of the week  Happy National Raspberry and Cream Day  Triple Crown of things that are the modern day cigarette  Cinnamon Court  Mail Bag  5 Star Review    [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by Mandy "Veggie" Redpath and Kevin "Karma" Savage.  Combined, the pair have accumulated more than 30,000 trail miles, and an endless number of stories to boot.  We get a detailed breakdown comparing a few different variations of Camino de Santiago- Frances, del Norte, and Primativo, a serendipitous hitchhike which kick-started their romantic journey, their first shared trek on the Pacific Northwest Trail, the Hayduke Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Low to High Route, Scottish National Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, and more.  In a nutshell, if you like trail stories and beta, you will dig this chat. We wrap the show with a Trek propaganda presented by today's guest on why you should thru-hike trails other than the AT PCT or CDT, the triple crown of things that you eat when you're sick, and the ways in which we align with the boomers. Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. PACT Outdoors: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off and free shipping at pactoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Mandy and Kevin Mandy's Instagram Karma's Instagram Mandy & Karma's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:04:42 - QOTD: What makes you go, “I’m with the boomers on this one”? 00:06:18 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon! 00:07:42 - Introducing Veggie and Karma 00:08:27 - Give us your trail resumes 00:11:47 - We Love Love: tell us about how you met 00:15:40 - Tell us more about falling in love 00:18:08 - Tell us about the start of the Pacific Northwest Trail 00:19:50 - Was the spark there on the CDT? 00:21:56 - What did you do after the Pacific Northwest Trail?00:23:56 - Tell us more about the various Camino routes you’ve done 00:27:46 - How much do the different routes overlap? 00:29:00 - Give us a pitch for each of the routes you did 00:32:11 - What did you use the trail guide for? 00:34:06 - Describe the water situation 00:35:00 - Describe the lodging 00:37:40 - What’s the language barrier like? 00:39:13 - What drew you to doing the Camino multiple times back to back? 00:42:02 - What did you do your thesis on? 00:43:00 - What type of injuries do people get? 00:44:51 - Give your best elevator pitch for the Camino 00:48:50 - Tell us about hiking the AT 00:51:00 - How did the AT compare to the Camino? 00:54:30 - What standout story do you have from the AT? 00:58:20 - Do you have any beginner mistake stories from the AT? 00:59:35 - Tell us about the Colorado Trail 01:05:37 - How did you get accustomed to dealing with afternoon thunderstorms on the CT? 01:06:14 - Tell us about the Pacific Crest Trail 01:08:09 - Describe PCTAZDKO 01:09:04 - Did the ice ax lessons come in handy? 01:11:00 - How did you navigate the PCT in 2012? 01:13:02 - Do you have any strong feelings about people’s dependence on Far Out? 01:15:03 - Have you ever needed a compass in addition to paper maps? 01:17:20 - Discussion about wildfires on the PCT 01:19:00 - Any standout stories from the CDT? 01:22:32 - How bound to the red line were you coming from the AT? 01:25:07 - How did the CDT last year compare to 2015? 01:27:15 - Why is the Wyoming Basin awesome? 01:29:35 - How did you first get into wildlife photography? 01:31:38 - Why do you like bird watching? 01:34:00 - Discussion about bird songs 01:37:21 - What is the best part about hiking with your partner? 01:39:30 - How do you help the other person when they’re having an off mental day? 01:43:58 - Any standout stories from the Hayduke? 01:46:00 - Zach and Chaunce have a fight 01:49:07 - What made you decide to do the Oregon Coast Trail? 01:51:55 - Tell us about the remoteness of the Oregon Coast Trail? 01:54:23 - How does the scenery change as you progress along the trail? 01:55:08 - What section of the trail would you hike again if you could? 01:56:12 - Tell us about the Kalalau Trail in Hawaii? 01:58:57 - Is the permit process difficult? 01:59:54 - Tell us about the Wonderland Trail 02:01:45 - Tell us about the Low to High Route 02:06:05 - Tell us about your scorpion encounters 02:08:40 - Has anyone gotten stung by a scorpion? 02:10:15 - What was the weather like on the Low to High Route? 02:13:01 - How did the AT compare going sobo instead of nobo? 02:14:35 - Any standout stories from the Arizona Trail in 2019? 02:16:04 - Tell us about the Scottish National Trail 02:18:18 - What is the Scottish take on Braveheart? 02:20:00 - Give us the pitch for the Scottish National Trail 02:21:32 - How often did you resupply? 02:22:00 - Tell us about being vegan and finding food options internationally 02:25:14 - Why did you decide to become vegan? 02:29:20 - Do you adhere to vegan gear and apparel as well? 02:30:25 - What is the most annoying thing about hiking with the other person? 02:33:14 - What’s your best gear idea? 02:33:52 - Tell us about the Grand Enchantment Trail 02:37:35 - Give us your top wildlife photography pictures you’ve taken 02:41:05 - How do you finance your hiking? 02:45:20 - Do you have any recommendations for making hiking a lifestyle? 02:47:10 - Are you pursuing any additional passions or careers? 02:49:05 - When are you getting engaged? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 5 Reasons To Hike Trails Other Than the Triple Crown by Mandy “Veggie” Redpath National Mutt Day Thought of the Week Triple Crown of things to eat when you’re sick Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Matteo Volpi, the CEO of Volpi Outdoor Gear, the Mexico-based UL gear company.  We talk about what it's like to run a cottage gear company out of Mexico, a country without much of a long-distance backpacking culture.  We learn about what goes into starting and running a new business, how he designs the products he uses and sells, the challenges of managing a team, and much more.  We also talk about Matteo's hikes on the PCT and Colorado Trail and his love affair with backpacking in the US. We wrap the show with a brief overview (and hopefully some foreshadowing) of the UK's 230-mile Cape Wrath Trail, the Triple Crown of activities that aren't but feel like sports, and some further education on the subject of real people who exist that don't have internal monologues who are real people that really exist. Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER20” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. [divider] Interview with Matteo Volpi Matteo's Instagram Volpi Outdoor Gear Instagram Volpi Outdoor Gear Website Time stamps & Questions 00:03:39 - Support us on Patreon! 00:05:14 - Introducing Matteo  00:06:05 - How did you get your trail name? 00:09:05 - How did you first get introduced to thru-hiking? 00:09:58 - Tell us about Guadalajara 00:12:35 - Are there any long trails or public land in Mexico? 00:14:48 - Is there any sort of backpacking culture in Mexico? 00:16:40 - Discussion about gear access and outdoor retailers in Mexico 00:20:40 - What’s the process for getting a visa for hiking the PCT 00:23:30 - What was it like starting at the Mexico-US border? 00:25:10 - Did you face any sort of racism or unpleasant behavior? 00:26:40 - Tell us about your early days on the PCT 00:30:28 - What are the top three non-obvious places to visit in Mexico? 00:37:00 - What highlights do you have from your first days of the PCT? 00:40:40 - When did you start your gear company? 00:42:11 - How did you get started with your gear? 00:45:13 - How do you make the packs? 00:48:24 - How do you source the fabrics? 00:55:40 - What led you to start your gear company? 00:57:11 - How hard is it to ship internationally? 00:59:00 - Tell us about hiking the Colorado Trail with your pack 01:00:03 - What are your favorite features of your backpack? 01:02:50 - How many miles do you typically do a day? 01:04:52 - How do you manage your time hiking, running a company, and going to school? 01:06:19 - What are you hoping to accomplish by going to college and studying GIS? 01:08:07 - How big is your team? 01:08:45 - What are your ambitions for the company in the future? 01:11:28 - What is the biggest, non-obvious challenge for your company? 01:14:52 - What advice would you give to yourself about starting a company? 01:16:07 - How do you approach taking risks? 01:18:03 - Rolf’s celebrity question: what are your plans right now? 01:19:52 - Do you have a favorite section of the CT? 01:21:18 - Where can people keep up with you? SEGMENTS QOTD 1: What’s the shelf life of leftover sushi? QOTD 2: Are mashed potatoes just Irish guacamole? Trek Propaganda Going Stoveless: The Pros and Cons of Cold Soaking by Diane Duffard The Cape Wrath Trail: The Wild, Wonderful, 230-Mile ‘AT of the UK’ by Clay Bonnyman Evans Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of things that aren’t sports but feel like sports Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Lyla Harrod. Lyla is is a sober, queer, transgender woman currently on the last leg of her triple crown and has accrued an absurd amount of trail miles in just the last 2.5 years. She swings by the studio in the midst of her CDT thru-hike to share her journey of coming out as trans, how that's interfaced with her many thru-hiking miles, establishing the FKT on the Bay Circuit Trail, her love affair with the Hayduke, setting the women’s White Mountains Direttissima FKT, her hikes on the AZT, Florida Trail, and much more. We wrap the show with some tips on scoring a walk-up permit at some of the most high-demand backcountry destinations, how we'd waste our money if we were billionaires, a very old guy centric stupid thing of the week, and the triple crown of failed candle scents. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER20” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Lyla Harrod Lyla's Instagram 7 Ways to Be "Trans Competent" on Trail by Lyla Harrod Trans hikers to follow this season Aubri Drake Stephanie Cawley Oliver Henderson Jordan Pinneke Time stamps & Questions 00:01:50 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon! 00:02:48 - Introducing Lyla 00:03:08 - What got you into backpacking? 00:04:41 - Tell us your trail name origin story 00:08:55 - What got you into thru-hiking? 00:10:20 - What was the AT like in 2021? 00:12:31 - What would you like to tell us about your background pre-transitioning? 00:19:10 - What was the reaction when you started to come out? 00:21:41 - Where did you get information from after you came out as trans? 00:23:47 - Did you ever fear you were wrong or would regret your decision? 00:24:58 - What was your mindset like before starting the AT? 00:26:53 - How did your on trail experience compare with your expectations? 00:28:35 - Did anyone use slurs at you? 00:32:00 - Did you experience a difference between hikers and people in towns? 00:33:41 - What are the most common things people get wrong? 00:35:45 - How do you interact with someone who has transphobic views? 00:37:09 - How often do people not believe you when you say you’re trans? 00:38:28 - How do you handle always having to have a positive front and decompress? 00:41:33 - Do you have a general piece of advice you offer to people who reach out to you? 00:43:42 - If you had an FAQ page, what would the top questions on that page be? 00:47:47 - Are hormone medications difficult to manage on trail? 00:49:04 - Are there any other modifications you made that make hiking easier for you? 00:50:54 - Are you still hurt when someone makes a mistake you can tell was unintentional? 00:54:08 - At what point did you know that thru-hiking was your new thing? 00:56:03 - Tell us about doing FKTs as a trans woman 01:00:00 - Tell us about the Bay Circuit Trail 01:03:00 - Tell us about doing the White Mountains Direttissima FKT 01:05:37 - How well did the PCT prepare you for the White Mountains? 01:06:41 - How do you train for something like that? 01:07:29 - How did you handle the rules about camping in alpine zones? 01:09:08 - Any advice for someone looking to set an FKT on the Bay Circuit Trail? 01:09:57 - What was your biggest newbie mistake on the AT? 01:11:44 - What 3 day stretch of the AT would you like to go back and relive? 01:12:55 - Have you ever shit your pants? 01:13:55 - Tell us about going from the AT to the AZT 01:16:34 - Tell us about your social experience and interactions on the PCT 01:20:00 - Why did you start the PCT in mid-March? 01:22:30 - What differences have you noticed in the continuous footpath mindset across the three Triple Crown trails? 01:25:49 - Can you define redlining? 01:27:00 - Tell us about the increasing popularity on the CDT and whether you’ve noticed it 01:28:38 - Do you think your PCT struggles enhanced or detracted from your experience? 01:29:55 - What were your highlights from the Hayduke? 01:32:24 - What’s the most difficult aspect of the Hayduke? 01:37:20 - What are your top moments from all the trails you’ve done? 01:46:30 - How have the San Juans compared to the Sierras in April? 01:49:01 - What’s making people decide to flip up to Glacier on the CDT this year? 01:52:08 - What will it mean for you to finish your Triple Crown? 01:54:56 - Tell us about your gear 01:58:50 - What parting message do you have for our listeners? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda How To Score a Walk-Up Backpacking Permit Anywhere by Katie Kommer QOTD: If you woke up tomorrow morning a billionaire, what’s the most extravagantly lavish thing you’d waste your money on? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of failed candle scents The Candle Daddy: Shart 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by the Daley Family. Marketa and David Daley have been avid backpackers for many years, and have not let the addition of their three kids Sequoia (age 6), Joshua (age 4), and Standa (age 3) slow them down in the slightest. Their recent treks include thru-hikes of the Tahoe Rim Trail, 1,300 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, and 250 miles of the Appalachian Trail this year. Although we've interviewed thru-hiking families in the past, we cover some new ground here, including managing breastfeeding while backpacking, an honest portrayal of the challenges that come along with backpacking with three young kids and how that gets more challenging as the family grows, the events that are most likely to trigger meltdowns, dealing with critiques from the online community, and why they still wouldn't have it any other way. This is an insightful chat for anyone who's curious what it's like to backpack with multiple youngsters. We wrap the show with a story of a woman who was bitten by a black bear on the Appalachian Trail, the triple crown of backpacking-specific compliments, and an impromptu interview with a Patreon Chuck Norris Award Winner about backpacking on the Centennial Trail. Do you want to hike with Backpacker Radio? Fill out this survey to indicate your interest! RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Marketa and David Daley Daley's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:02:48 - QOTD: Rank who gets the most excited when a pregnancy is announced 00:07:25 - Support us on Patreon to get bonus content! 00:11:20 - The TrovaTrip is happening! 00:13:30 - Introducing the Daley family 00:14:33 - What are everyone’s trail names? 00:16:22 - How did you two get into backpacking? 00:18:19 - Where did you move to America from? 00:20:31 - What was it like growing up in a PCT town? 00:22:22 - How did you both get into trail work? 00:23:14 - What was your thought process when you first got pregnant with Sequoia? 00:24:18 - What is the toughest age of kid to backpack with? 00:25:23 - We Love Love: tell us more about how you met and fell in love 00:31:00 - Was Sequoia a surprise? 00:32:03 - Walk us through the evolution from not wanting kids to having 3 of them 00:34:22 - Have all three of the kids adapted to the outdoors easily? 00:35:56 - At what point did the prospect of a long backpacking trip become feasible? 00:37:41 - What is it like to adopt a child and did backpacking play a role? 00:40:00 - How did Sequoia adapt to gaining a sibling? 00:42:40 - What was the main difference between backpacking with one kid versus two? 00:43:40 - Tell us about water crossings with kids 00:45:45 - Tell us about the Tahoe Rim Trail 00:47:40 - What does your backpacking schedule look like? 00:48:56 - How has hiking with kids changed your relationship with each other? 00:50:25 - Does any part of you feel like you’re sacrificing the way you want to hike? 00:52:31 - How do you gauge whether your kids are enjoying the hiking or not? 00:55:18 - Relative to their peers, what attributes do you think your kids have gained? 00:56:35 - Have you ever freaked out on trail about the kids? 00:58:02 - Tell us about breastfeeding and food on trail 01:00:30 - Tell us about hiking the PCT in 2022 01:03:00 - What is your gear setup? 01:04:50 - How did you ration water? 01:06:29 - Are the kids comfortable with night hiking? 01:07:28 - How do you prepare kids for dealing with rattlesnakes? 01:09:17 - At what age did you feel like you can cohesively communicate dangers to them? 01:10:22 - Tell us your best kid poop stories 01:12:32 - Is there a common meltdown trigger, and how do you deal with them? 01:15:40 - Tell us about your experiment on the last day of the AT 01:17:52 - What caused you to get off the AT? 01:20:25 - What has the feedback been on social media versus in real life? 01:25:37 - What’s the most common question you get? 01:28:22 - Do you feel pressure to set records as a hiking family? 01:30:00 - Would say either the PCT or AT is more kid friendly? 01:31:06 - How do you handle the threat of ticks on the AT? 01:32:00 - What’s next? 01:33:19 - Is there a non-obvious question related to kids hiking that we haven’t asked? SEGMENTS Chuck Norris Award Winner Interview Trek Propaganda A Woman Was Bitten by a Bear on the AT Last Month. Here’s What Happened by Bloodhound Triple Crown of backpacking-specific compliments Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Alina Drufovka aka Abstract. In addition to being a thru-hiker and adventurer, you're likely already familiar with the name Abstract because of her incredible and unique outdoor-themed artwork. We learn all about Alina's transformation from thru-hiker to now full-time artist, her time on the AT, PCT, and Israel National Trail, her current gig as an Ambassadors on the Get Outside Tour where she travels the country in a van alongside her boyfriend, attending outdoor events, leading clinics, and overall spreading joy to the people. Abstract is nothing but good vibes and this is a spirited interview that will elicit smiles. We wrap the show with a chat about why cell phones don't appear in dreams (or do they?), a story about a PCT hiker who was bit by a rattlesnake, a triple crown of people who are probably serial killers, and more! Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Do you want to hike with Backpacker Radio? Fill out this survey to indicate your interest! RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Goodr: Use code “BACKPACKER” for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Alina “Abstract” Drufovka Abstract's Instagram Abstract's Website REI Embark Program Get Outside Tour Time stamps & Questions 00:04:01 - QOTD: Have cell phones ever appeared in your dreams? 00:09:55 - Reminders: Is it or is it not Rachel’s birthday? 00:13:25 - Introducing Alina 00:14:20 - Tell us about hiking the AT 1.5 times 00:17:20 - We Love Love! 00:22:16 - Discussion about being half Colombian, half Jewish 00:24:52 - How did your love blossom along the trail? 00:26:10 - How did you learn about the AT at age 13? 00:27:57 - What was it like retracing your steps two years after being injured? 00:28:40 - Tell us about the St. Patty’s party trail magic 00:34:00 - Does your mom fit the stereotype of a nervous Jewish mom? 00:37:40 - What are the cornerstones of your grandma’s book? 00:41:10 - What was it like to get past the point where you got off trail the first time? 00:43:10 - Discussion about expressing interest in someone without being creepy 00:44:22 - What’s the story behind the Wonder Woman outfit? 00:46:15 - At what point did art intersect with thru-hiking? 00:48:00 - Discussion about Abstract’s art style 00:51:28 - Tell us about hiking the Israel National Trail in 2018 00:54:35 - What are towns like on the Israel National Trail? 00:55:44 - Discussion about making Aliyah and Birthright 00:58:02 - Did you feel safe on the Israel National Trail? 00:59:50 - What advice do you have for people interested in the Israel National Trail? 01:02:30 - Interlude: Rachel’s birthday! 01:05:15 - Tell us about the PCT in 2019 01:08:24 - What was it like to live in Colombia? 01:10:30 - What were the biggest differences between Colombia and Israel? 01:11:15 - How did you turn your art into a business? 01:15:45 - Tell us about the Embark program 01:16:27 - Have you experienced imposter syndrome? 01:19:57 - How do you decide when to release something new and price your art? 01:20:55 - What’s been your biggest business challenge? 01:22:53 - How do you deal with having your designs ripped off? 01:28:21 - What’s your inspiration for a new painting these days? 01:29:29 - What is the Get Outside tour? 01:33:58 - How many events will you attend? 01:35:01 - Did you get to customize the van? 01:38:40 - What events are coming up on the tour? 01:39:40 - Fuck Marry Kill: Appalachian Trail, Pacific Trail, Israel National Trail 01:40:10 - What piece of art are you most proud of? 01:41:31 - Describe your art to the listeners 01:43:30 - Where can people follow you? 01:44:14 - Tell us about living on a commune 01:50:37 - Are you interested in polyamory? 01:51:30 - If you could bring an aspect of commune life into your regular life, what would it be? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda PCT Hiker Hospitalized After Rattlesnake Bite by Kelly Floro Stupid Thing of the Week Listener Voicemail Triple Crown of people who might be serial killers Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are re-joined by friend of the show, Renee "She-ra" Patrick. She-ra is a triple crowner whose backpacking experience you heard all about in episode 44, today we catch up on all she's been up to since last being on the show, including hikes on the Blue Mountains Trail, the Corvallis to Sea Trail, re-visiting the AT as a southbounder, and more. Renee also walks us through her latest endeavor and mission to help long-distance organizations improve the trail experience for hikers and to bring awareness to conservation efforts on trails across the country. We wrap the show with things our parents told us that we're now pretty sure is a lie, the triple crown of ways we're turning into our parents, a few ways to save money in town as a thru-hiker, and more. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Renee “She-ra” Patrick Renee Patrick Consulting Renee's Blog Renee's Instagram Long-Distance Trail Consulting | Hiker Survey Blue Mountains Trail | Greater Hells Canyon Council Greater Hart-Sheldon: Sagebrush Stronghold Story Map Time stamps & Questions 00:03:28 - QOTD: What’s something your parents used to tell you that you’re now pretty sure is a lie? 00:06:30 - Introducing She-ra 00:07:05 - Catch us up on your last 4 years 00:08:48 - Tell us about the Wallowa Mountains in Oregon 00:10:20 - Discussion about managing the Oregon Desert Trail 00:12:30 - What kind of issues occur in that area? 00:14:11 - What is the number one challenge with building a trail? 00:16:00 - What’s your trail resume? 00:18:00 - What was it like hiking on the AT 20 years after your first thru-hike? 00:20:30 - What is your favorite thing about route hiking? 00:21:40 - Fuck Marry Kill: Trails, Routes, Consulting 00:22:28 - Do you have suggestions for approachable routes? 00:26:00 - What does the research look like for the first person to hike a route? 00:28:30 - What are common mistakes people make when starting routes? 00:32:10 - Tell us about the Corvallis to Sea Trail 00:37:20 - Discussion about the Three Sisters Trail and the Up North Loop 00:41:38 - If someone wanted to start their own trail, what roles do they need to fill? 00:47:16 - Can you estimate how long it takes to make a trail based on the mileage? 00:49:09 - What is a National Recreation Trail? 00:51:30 - Tell us about your consulting business 00:56:00 - Do you work with both trail organizations and hikers? 00:58:15 - What practical things can organizations recommend to hikers? 01:04:08 - Zach’s pitch idea for Renee 01:04:55 - Where can people fill out your survey? 01:05:56 - How do you narrow down your focus? 01:09:00 - Tell us about your logo design work 01:12:00 - Tell us about the dabbling you’ve done in GIS 01:15:28 - What parting messages do you have for the listeners? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Top 10 Ways to Save Money in Town by Eloise Robbins Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of ways you’re turning into your parents Mail Bag (artist mentioned) 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Briana DeSanctis aka Rocky Mountain High. Briana is currently hiking the 6,800 mile American Discovery Trail and upon completing this trail, she will be the first solo woman to ever accomplish this feat. We obviously swan dive deep on everything to do with hiking the ADT, including the specifics of the route, how much of it is on single track vs road, some of the highlight stops along the trail, how she manages resupply and water, what's to love and hate about the trail, and more. Briana is a riot and has no shortage of fun stories from this very wild endeavor. Grab your popcorn, strap in, and enjoy. We wrap the show with a story about a mom hiking the AT alongside her 15 kids, the triple Crown of people who ought to be on the first rocket to Mars, and we opine if people without inner monologues actually exist. Do you want to hike with Backpacker Radio? Fill out this survey to indicate your interest! Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Briana DeSanctis Briana's Instagram Briana's Facebook American Discovery Trail Time stamps & Questions 00:05:04 - QOTD: Are people without internal monologues more likely to quit thru-hikes? 00:09:07 - Reminders: Check out updates from the PCTA here! 00:10:00 - Introducing Briana 00:11:15 - What got you into the outdoors? 00:13:40 - Where should people visit in Maine? 00:15:30 - Are you a lobster snob? 00:17:30 - Tell us about starting the AT 00:21:00 - Did you feel prepared for the AT? 00:23:07 - How did the hike compare with your expectations? 00:25:01 - What were your best meltdowns on the AT? 00:31:00 - How did you adjust your interactions with strangers after that? 00:31:57 - What are your tips for hitchhiking? 00:35:22 - Give us the highlights of what you did between the AT and ADT 00:41:05 - What are the basic fun facts of the ADT? 00:46:41 - What are the selling points of either the northern or southern routes? 00:50:57 - Discussion about walking through cities 00:54:39 - Tell us about how you navigate the trail 00:56:20 - What drew you to hiking the ADT? 00:59:50 - Will you be the first woman to thru-hike the ADT? 01:02:30 - What kind of carts do people push? 01:04:20 - How many people have hiked the ADT? 01:04:54 - How much of the hike is on road versus single-track? 01:08:19 - Why did you almost die from heat exhaustion? 01:13:02 - What is cell reception like on the ADT? 01:14:09 - Fill us in on your timeline? 01:16:39 - How often do you resupply? 01:18:20 - What keeps you motivated to continue on this trail? 01:20:40 - Are you taking notes or journaling? 01:23:00 - What’s a good story that will definitely be included in your book? 01:24:45 - Tell us about shitting your pants 01:32:05 - Zach’s AT poop story 01:33:05 - Briana’s creative shits 01:40:08 - Discussion about sleeping in bathrooms 01:42:35 - Discussion about planning mileage and places to camp 01:45:04 - Discussion about Briana’s interactions with police 01:50:00 - Discussion about people giving Briana things 01:52:22 - If you could pick one chain to eat at for the rest of the trail, what would you pick? 01:54:51 - What one town stands out to you? 02:01:30 - Fuck Marry Kill: the states you’ve been through thus far 02:05:55 - Fuck Marry Kill: road trails, rail trails, trail trails 02:06:53 - Is there one restaurant experience that stands out to you? 02:12:15 - Discussion about staying with people in towns 02:15:04 - Discussion about the common questions people ask 02:18:14 - What sort of takeaway do you think you’ll leave the ADT with? 02:19:24 - How has this experience changed your perspective on our country? 02:25:03 - What’s the deal with your flip flops? 02:31:30 - What’s your best elevator pitch for the American Discovery Trail? 02:34:05 - Where can people follow you? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 32 Feet Up: A Single Mom and Her 15 Kids Hike the Appalachian Trail by Bloodhound Triple Crown of people who should be on the first rocket to Mars [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Warren Doyle. Warren is a legend. With 18 traverses of the entire Appalachian Trail accounting for more than 38,000 miles, no one on earth has completed the AT more times than Warren. In addition to his vast knowledge and infatuation with this trail, Warren is a fascinating character, with outspoken beliefs on culture, disobedience, and philosophy. Chaunce and I really enjoyed our chat with Warren and we think you will too. We wrap the show with a triple crown of things that are better than sex, thru-hiking artists you need to know about, and a few of our most nerve-wracking hitchhikes. Do you want to hike with Backpacker Radio? Fill out this survey to indicate your interest! Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Warren Doyle Warren's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:04:25 - QOTD: What is a boring fact about you? 00:08:30 - Reminders: Listen to our Patreon-exclusive Q&A episodes by becoming a supporter! 00:10:17 - Introducing Warren 00:11:22 - What is the full origin story for you and the AT? 00:12:16 - What was the trail like in the 1970s? 00:14:43 - What is your approach to teaching prospective AT hikers? 00:17:20 - What made you return to the AT over and over? 00:20:25 - Discussion about questioning authority 00:22:48 - What are some examples of laws protecting us from the land? 00:24:30 - Discussion about the ferry service 00:31:56 - Are there other stories of trail changes? 00:38:06 - What was the better way to go about that? 00:42:30 - What do you attribute to your group trips’ 100% success rates? 00:45:05 - What are the keys for prospective AT hikers? 00:49:17 - What litmus test can people use to know if they’re prepared? 00:56:25 - What were some of the advantages and disadvantages of hiking the trail at different ages? 00:58:32 - Was there a particular age where you crossed that threshold? 01:02:03 - Did any injury play into that decision? 01:04:48 - What is one of your favorite stories from one of your trips? 01:09:04 - Is it upsetting to you to see the hikers of today? 01:11:26 - What’s the meaning behind the Circle Hikes? 01:14:30 - Walk us through your very first day on trail 01:20:21 - What message do you want to convey to the listeners? 01:21:40 - Where can people learn more about you? 01:22:22 - What do you want your legacy to be? 01:24:48 - What’s your strategy when someone wants to quit? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 10 Incredible Thru-Hiking Artists Inspired by Long Trails by Katie “Oats” Houston Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of things that are better than sex Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.  Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Sawyer Products, we are bringing you a certified smorgasbord of backpacking goodness. We kick off the show with a somewhat impromptu interview with Instagram and YouTube sensation, Little Skittle. We learn about the last leg of her triple crown, how she embraced the brutality of the CDT, and of course the requisite fuck, marry, kill of the triple crown trails. We then catch up with Travis Avery of Sawyer Products to geek out on all things related to insect repellants, water filter technology, and how a Chicago Bears running back played a crucial role in Sawyer's early success. We wrap the show with a series of AT Hiker submissions for "Stupid Thing of the Week", with a very natural slant toward shit stories guaranteed to entertain. As if that weren't enough, Chaunce and I give a rundown on our favorite moments from Trail Days, what adventure plans we have on the docket for this summer, and the typical chaos. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer’s Permethrin Pump at REI. Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Goodr: Use code “BACKPACKER” for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Little Skittle Little Skittle's Instagram Little Skittle's Youtube Interview with Travis Avery Sawyer Product's Instagram Travis's LinkedIn Time stamps & Questions 00:05:02 - QOTD: What summer hiking/backpacking/adventuring plans do you have? 00:12:48 - Reminders: Listen to exclusive Q&A episodes on Patreon! 00:15:08 - Introducing Little Skittle 00:17:33 - How’s it feel to be in the middle of your Triple Crown? 00:17:55 - How is the AT after completing the PCT and CDT already? 00:19:34 - How have you enjoyed the AT culture? 00:22:00 - Have you gotten backlash for your pace? 00:23:15 - What sketchy moments stand out from the CDT? 00:25:37 - Do you have any standout scary animal stories? 00:30:00 - Fuck Marry Kill: AT, PCT, CDT 00:31:20 - Little Skittle’s Stupid Thing of the Week 00:35:45 - What’s luxurious about your quilt? 00:37:03 - What has been your favorite thing about your AT experience so far? 00:38:10 - What’s been the most epic trail magic you received? 00:39:20 - What do you hope for at trail magic and what don’t you want? 00:40:35 - What’s after the Triple Crown? 00:43:13 - Introducing Travis Avery 00:46:02 - Tell us about the company history of Sawyer Products 00:47:28 - What is an extractor? 00:49:58 - How exactly does permethrin work? 00:51:47 - Can dogs get Lyme? 00:54:11 - If you were hiking the AT, how often would you apply permethrin? 00:58:50 - Can you spray permethrin on your underwear? 01:00:10 - Does permethrin present any risk when directly touching human skin? 01:01:10 - Do you have any tips and tricks for applying permethrin? 01:02:32 - What else is effective against ticks? 01:04:41 - Does picaridin help protect against flies? 01:05:41 - Describe the difference between DEET and picaridin against mosquitoes 01:08:00 - Are you uneasy using DEET? 01:08:56 - Discussion about mosquitos preferring different blood types 01:10:15 - Discussion about using permethrin around cats 01:11:55 - What are some other non obvious suggestions for using permethrin? 01:13:17 - Can you lock in the treatment using a hotel hair dryer? 01:14:14 - How do you know if your Sawyer Squeeze is broken? 01:16:10 - When did the Sawyer Squeeze come out? 01:16:50 - Tell us about the decision to make the filter compatible with standard water bottles 01:20:27 - Give us the elevator pitch on what makes the Squeeze superior to the competition 01:23:14 - Fuck Marry Kill: Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Alpha-gal Syndrome SEGMENTS Stupid Thing of the Week: AT Thru-Hiker Edition Abby “Shitwater” Evans Major Fun Guy Hamilton Dead Dad [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Sawyer Products, we are joined once again by Darwin Rakestraw, of Darwin on the Trail YouTube fame. We catch up on the past year of Darwin's adventures, including learning all about his new gear company, Evolved Supply Co., the inspiration for how he builds products, which products he chooses, what offerings might be in the pipeline, and more. We also learn about a brand new documentary featuring Brew and Jennifer Pharr Davis and their kiddos, which chronicles Sawyer's initiative to bring clean water to the non-resort portions of Fiji. We wrap the chat with a preview of the forthcoming chapter in Darwin's thriving media career, one all fans of adventure should be excited to learn more about. We wrap the show with a triple crown of "you might be a new hiker if...", an overview of a new inclusive product line from REI, and quite possibly the most off the rails ad read of all time at the end of the episode. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer’s Permethrin Pump at REI. Backpacker’s Pantry: Use code “TWINSFORWINS” for 25% off at backpackerspantry.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. OnX Backcountry: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO20” for 20% off a Premium or Elite Membership at onxmaps.com. [divider] Interview with Darwin Darwin's Instagram Darwin's Youtube Evolved Supply Co Time stamps & Questions 00:05:20 - QOTD: If you could redo your bachelor party, where would you have it? 00:13:06 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon!  00:16:14 - Introducing Darwin 00:18:33 - Fill us in on what you’ve been up to for the past year! 00:21:08 - Tell us about your gear company 00:23:12 - What about your gear separates you from the other products available? 00:28:20 - Walk us through your backpack design 00:32:04 - What have you learned about gear that you didn’t know while hiking? 00:36:12 - Are there concerns about people trying to steal your business information? 00:39:57 - Tell us more about your sun hoodie 00:46:00 - Give us the full rundown on your project with Jennifer Pharr Davis 00:53:30 - Discussion about Sawyer’s philanthropy work 00:55:50 - What is your role in the project? 00:58:10 - What is Jenn and her family’s role in the project? 01:01:05 - Do Fijians know it’s Sawyer providing the filter? 01:04:45 - Where can people watch the film? 01:10:35 - How do you manage your busy schedule? 01:12:40 - Fuck Marry Kill: Thru-hiking, your media company, and your gear company 01:14:38 - What else are you up to that you want people to know about? 01:19:30 - Discussion about Darwin’s travels to Nepal 01:20:52 - Are you going to start adding more travel content to your Youtube? 01:25:40 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The REI Trailmade Collection: Top Picks From REI’s New Inclusive-Sizing Technical Line by Stacia Bennett Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of you might be a new hiker if… Leave No Trace Ne-ne-nes Listener Voicemail (and leave us your own!) 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Anna McKinney.  Anna is an AT thru-hiker (where she met her fiancé), a hiking guide in the Smokies, a Trek Writer, and an all around giver of good vibes.  We get the full scoop on how her budding trail romance evolved to impending wedding bells- and Chaunce gives us a detailed breakdown on the stages of love on trail, we learn about some of the more interesting flora and fauna in the Smokies, battling imposter syndrome, and her recent LASH on the Arizona Trail. We wrap the show with me getting angry about spiders and octopi, a triple crown of things serious thru-hikers don't compromise on, and also other stuff!   Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Backpacker’s Pantry: Use code “TWINSFORWINS” for 25% off at backpackerspantry.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. OnX Backcountry: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO20” for 20% off a Premium or Elite Membership at onxmaps.com. [divider] Interview with Anna McKinney Anna's Instagram Anna's Trek profile Anna's blog Time stamps & Questions 00:06:07 - QOTD: Excluding water, what’s the difference between spiders and octopus? 00:08:40 - Reminders: Suggest a guest! Fill out our listener survey by June 15! 00:09:35 - Introducing Anna 00:10:35 - What’s your trail name and origin story? 00:12:53 - Do you have any standout trail magic stories? 00:15:06 - What got you into the outdoors? 00:16:30 - What was your big girl job? 00:17:30 - What was it like going through your own backyard on the AT for the first time? 00:20:20 - How steep was your backpacking learning curve? 00:22:23 - Discussion about losing people on the trail 00:24:29 - Did a zero degree bag with a liner prove to be excessive? 00:26:11 - What was your process of working your pack weight down? 00:29:00 - What’s your base weight nowadays? 00:32:35 - We love love - tell us about meeting your fiance on the AT! 00:36:45 - When you’re into someone, how do you let them know without creeping you out? 00:39:27 - When did the physical aspect come into play? 00:41:27 - How did he ask you to be his girlfriend? 00:44:08 - What was finishing the trail like for your relationship? 00:45:50 - Did you ever feel like the relationship was in jeopardy after the trail? 00:47:09 - What did you learn about him off-trail that you didn’t learn on-trail? 00:49:19 - Ask your on-trail romance these questions! 00:52:43 - What are the stages of a trail relationship? 00:54:07 - Chaunce’s stages of a trail relationship 00:59:22 - Tell us about working with Blue Ridge Hiking Company 01:01:53 - Tell us about caretaking the AT bunkhouse in Hot Springs 01:04:05 - What was the vibe when it’s not only thru-hikers but some thru-hikers? 01:05:31 - Tell us about your experience with imposter syndrome 01:08:38 - Tell us about underrated sections of the AT 01:12:50 - What is it like to guide in the Smokies? 01:15:55 - Discussion about interacting with thru-hikers within the National Park on guiding trips 01:19:14 - What are some fun facts about the Smokies flora and fauna? 01:23:21 - What are some trail highlights in the Smokies that aren’t on the AT? 01:25:57 - Tell us your engagement story! 01:29:13 - Where did you get your rings made? 01:31:32 - Tell us about the Arizona Trail! 01:35:22 - Discussion about the snow on the AZT 01:38:00 - Did you know at the beginning things could change due to the snow? 01:39:19 - Tell us about how your travel plans changed 01:41:01 - Which day of your National Parks trip would you revisit? 01:42:11 - What differences did you notice hiking with a partner between the AT and AZT? 01:44:45 - Did you get in any major fights? 01:46:54 - Have you lost any fights? 01:49:44 - Where can people go to follow you? 01:51:45 - What’s next? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Italian Hiker Discovers 2,000-Year-Old Buried Treasure by Rachel Shoemaker Triple Crown of things serious thru-hikers don’t compromise on Pupdate Twin Update Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Cameron Brown, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Rue McKenrick.  Rue is an accomplished long-distance hiker and the Executive Director of the American Perimeter Trail Conference, an ambitious project to create a 14,000 mile loop that circumnavigates the continental U.S.  We learn all about Rue's scouting of this trail- as he's hiked 12,000 miles of the route in search of the best course already, his inspiration for this project, the challenges he anticipates in completing this, the role partnering with other trail organizations will play, and more. We wrap the show with Chaunce's very stupid thing of the week, additional details of our attendance at Trail Days, and the hikers we would most like to eliminate from the trail. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock  OnX Backcountry: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO20” for 20% off a Premium or Elite Membership at onxmaps.com. [divider] Interview with Rue McKenrick Rue McKenrick Instagram American Perimeter Trail website Time stamps & Questions 00:05:15 - QOTD: If you could eliminate hikers from the trail, who would they be?  00:12:36 - Reminders: We’re going to Trail Days! Come visit us on Saturday (you might see Elise there too)! Guest Recommendation form, bonus points if you’re local.  00:15:35 - Introducing Rue McKenrick  00:16:15 - Tell us about growing up near the AT  00:17:28 - When did you realize you wanted to make backpacking a focus in your life?  00:19:16 - How have hikers changed over the years?  00:29:35 - What hikes have you completed?  00:34:36 - What attributed to the lack of enthusiasm? And what brought you back?  00:37:50 - What were your roles with the non-profit organizations and how did it lead to creating your own trail? 00:40:52 - Any insider stories you have from working with AMC or ATC?  00:48:51 - Give us the fast facts on the American Perimeter Trail  01:01:00 - Could you go through the flow of the American Perimeter Trail map?  01:14:30 - What is the undertaking of this project?  01:24:14 - How do you legally secure corridors for the American Perimeter Trail?  01:30:00 - Have you encountered anyone that has interest in thru-hiking the trail?  01:33:03 - Wrap up    SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  Outdoor Exercise Might Be Better for Your Brain Than Hitting the Gym by Rachel Shoemaker Stupid Thing of the Week Mail Bag  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Cameron Brown, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dr. Brian Fallon and Noah Johnston of Project Lyme to discuss all things deer ticks and Lyme disease. We dive into just about everything one would want to know including Lyme disease prevalence, prevention strategies, treatment for Lyme and chronic Lyme, the latest in medical advancements including prospects for future vaccines, where Lyme is most problematic geographically, how to manage your pet on trail, and much more. We wrap the show with a Backpacker Radio update regarding a certain AT festival, the triple crown of animals you'd let murder you, some news for PCT and JMT hikers, and also Zach had twins. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer’s Permethrin Pump at REI. OnX Backcountry: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO20” for 20% off a Premium or Elite Membership at onxmaps.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Backpacker’s Pantry: Use code “TWINSFORWINS” for 25% off at backpackerspantry.com. [divider] Interview with Dr. Brian Fallon and Noah Johnston Project Lyme Project Lyme Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:22 - QOTD: Have you heard of soft hiking? 00:07:56 - Reminders: We’re going to Trail Days (author page link here)! Take our Listener Survey!  00:15:25 - Introducing Dr. Brian Fallon and Noah Johnston 00:16:34 - Can you explain the basics of Lyme disease as if we’re in fifth grade? 00:19:37 - Does everyone get some form of a rash when infected? 00:20:20 - What are the most common regions of the body for tick bites? 00:20:56 - What’s the timeframe between a tick climbing onto you and biting you? 00:22:24 - How do you know that a tick hasn’t already bit you? 00:23:50 - What’s the prevalence of that particular virus? 00:24:20 - Discussion about the timeline of Lyme infection 00:26:20 - Are there ever instances when someone’s immune system fights off the infection? 00:28:00 - Tell us more about chronic Lyme disease 00:32:42 - Is a vaccine for Lyme disease on the horizon? 00:34:14 - What was the reaction to the previous vaccine? 00:36:52 - In what regions of the country should people be the most vigilant about Lyme? 00:39:53 - What would your recommendation be for someone struggling with chronic Lyme? 00:41:04 - Is there a particular set of medications or supplements that help these people? 00:45:45 - Would it make sense to include antibiotics in your first aid kit as a thru-hiker? 00:48:44 - Can someone get Lyme disease more than once? 00:49:32 - How do you differentiate between chronic Lyme disease and post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome? 00:50:25 - What’s up with the red meat thing? 00:53:15 - Are there any other medical advances that you see coming related to Lyme? 00:59:00 - What’s the best estimate of the prevalence of Lyme disease? 01:01:44 - What eats ticks? 01:03:25 - Discussion about a vaccine to prevent tick attachment 01:04:39 - What about the vaccine makes the tick unable to attach? 01:05:32 - What other methods of prevention would you recommend? 01:09:45 - Can animals get Lyme? 01:11:39 - Discussion about the Lyme disease vaccine for dogs 01:11:56 - If dogs can get Lyme disease, don’t bears all have Lyme disease? 01:16:35 - Is there any risk in eating venison that’s been infected with Lyme disease? 01:19:22 - How intelligent are ticks? 01:21:52 - Where do ticks hibernate? 01:23:45 - What happens when a tick comes in contact with permethrin? 01:26:00 - Do you know the efficacy of oil of lemon? 01:27:24 - What role does hair play in terms of the likelihood of tick attachment? 01:29:20 - Discussion about tick prevention while camping 01:31:19 - Are ticks active at night? 01:34:00 - Project Lyme resources 01:36:27 - What type of outlook is there for someone with chronic Lyme? 01:42:54 - Tell us more about your background and how you came to be at Project Lyme 01:49:04 - Where should people go to get more information? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Major PCT Bridge Failure Expected To Cause Detours for PCT, JMT Thru-Hikers in 2023 by Rachel Shoemaker Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of animals you’d let murder you Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Cameron Brown, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we get the full rundown on Chaunce and Fireball's recent thru-hike of the Ozark Highlands Trail. Not only do we get a day-by-day run-through of this adventure, but we learn all about the trail's unique features, including the intense water crossings, its extremely remote nature, how they handled resupply, what they liked and didn't like about the trail, an epic trail angel stay, and more. We wrap the show with some news that affects all trekkers in the country of Nepal, a triple crown of things that get your goat, and a new gross or not gross. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Goodr: Use code “BACKPACKER” for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Chaunce & Mims Fireball's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:50 - QOTD: What’s it called if you hike near/with someone solely because they have an awesome dog? 00:07:10 - Introducing Chaunce & Mims! 00:10:40 - Would you say someone should skip the northern section? 00:13:16 - What was the inspiration to hike this trail? 00:15:00 - Discussion about the trail conditions and weather 00:15:58 - Does the time change affect you on trail? 00:17:44 - Overview of the trail logistics  00:19:45 - How did you cache/store food? 00:23:40 - Discussion about the trail itinerary 00:24:37 - How hard are the miles on the OHT? 00:27:16 - Is it nerve wracking to hike separately during the day? 00:32:00 - Have you heard of anyone being attacked by a boar? 00:35:02 - What was the weather like? 00:37:40 - Discussion about Day 3 00:38:52 - Would you hike it again? 00:40:15 - Discussion about the water crossings 00:52:53 - Discussion about Stan the trail angel 00:58:25 - Story about Big Bertha the massage chair 01:02:51 - More about Stan 01:06:30 - Discussion about Chaunce’s birthday on trail 01:16:42 - Discussion about latter half of the trail 01:19:04 - Discussion about Chaunce’s shoes 01:21:30 - Discussion about the second to last day of trail 01:29:00 - Discussion about finishing the trail 01:31:40 - What was the cell service like? 01:33:45 - Would you bring a dog on the trail? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Nepal To Ban Solo Trekkers Throughout the Country (Yes, That Includes the Annapurna Circuit) by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of things that get your goat Gross or Not Gross Premature Gear Evaluations Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Cameron Brown, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Catra Corbett. Catra is an accomplished ultrarunner, former meth addict, author, and overall force for positivity. We go through Catra's many long distance accomplishments including being the first American woman to run over 100 miles on more than 100 occasions, her fastest known double time for the 425-miles John Muir Trail, and her streak of running every day for the last 10 years. We learn about the process of overcoming addiction and starting a new life, how Catra maintains a positive mindset while managing her depression and anxiety, her favorite trail races, including a fuck marry kill of the best 100 mile races, and much more. This was a fun lively chat, you will enjoy it, or else, we will find you. We wrap the show with a triple crown of random facts, reasons why you should SOBO thru-hike the CDT, a new patent-pending, and some last minute thoughts before Chaunce hits the Ozark Highlands Trail. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. OnX Backcountry: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO20” for 20% off a Premium or Elite Membership at onxmaps.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Catra Corbett Catra's Website Catra's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:09:57 - QOTD: Predictions for Zach with twins! 00:11:58 - Reminders: Take our listener survey! Trail  00:13:30 - Introducing Catra 00:14:16 - Give us your full background on getting into sports 00:18:44 - Did you have any trauma that turned you towards substances? 00:21:37 - Is it almost a benefit to have gone through past hardships while being an ultrarunner? 00:23:00 - Tell us about being a go-go dancer! 00:25:40 - Do you think you needed to process your trauma prior to starting running? 00:26:48 - Can you talk about how hard it was to stay clean and focus on running? 00:30:28 - How did you cut ties with your former friends? 00:32:02 - Tell us about setting the JMT yo-yo FKT 00:45:50 - What did the FKT culture look like in 2002? 00:49:55 - Have you had any hallucinations? 00:54:26 - Tell us about the Triple Crown of 200s 00:57:18 - Have you noticed a change in the 200-mile race scene since Courtney’s win? 01:01:45 - What would you say is the line between oversleeping and undersleeping? 01:06:25 - Do you have any general advice for people looking to learn from you? 01:07:46 - Is it possible for running to become too much of a good thing? 01:12:17 - Is there an established time for a JMT triple? 01:12:45 - How do you get a permit for an FKT on the JMT? 01:14:35 - How does your approach differ based on the length of your race? 01:16:10 - Fuck Marry Kill: 100-mile races 01:18:45 - How did you get your trail name? 01:21:44 - Tell us about your shoes 01:23:06 - Tell us about getting stalked by animals and nearly dying 01:30:55 - Do you alter your course if you see storms coming? 01:31:43 - Tell us about writing the book 01:33:33 - Trigger warning: do you want to tell us about when you attempted suicide? 01:38:30 - What mindset skills do you use? 01:41:30 - Where can people go to follow you? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 9 Reasons You Should Hike the CDT SOBO by Jenn Wall Stupid Thing of the Week Patent Pending Triple Crown of random facts Mail Bag (submit a guest for the show!) 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Cameron Brown, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by Tim Ernst, renowned wilderness photographer and the founder and former president of the Ozark Highlands Trail. This one is dedicated to the Ozark Highlands Trail, serving as an in-depth trail profile of this 200-mile(ish) backpacking trail through the state of Arkansas. We learn all about what makes this trail special, the best time of the year to hike, who it's for, some of the trail's highlights, wildlife, resupply strategy and more. We wrap the show with our ride or die beer choices, a new stupidest thing of the week, a brief preview of the lost sierra trail, the triple crown of things we do that we're ashamed of, and more. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. OnX Backcountry: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO20” for 20% off a Premium or Elite Membership at onxmaps.com. [divider] Interview with Tim Ernst Tim's Website OHT Website Show notes photos credited to timernst.com Time stamps & Questions 00:05:28 - QOTD: What one beer would you drink for the rest of time? 00:07:30 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon to listen to our exclusive Q&A episodes! 00:09:50 - Introducing Tim 00:10:35 - What got you into the outdoors and photography? 00:13:50 - You hiked across the state with no maps? 00:14:57 - How long did the first traverse take? 00:16:07 - Tell us more about your background in photography 00:23:37 - What is the basic layout of the Ozark Highlands Trail? 00:28:40 - What do people do for that 16 mile gap? 00:33:35 - Discussion about reasons to hike the OHT 00:36:44 - How do you decide how long a trail should be? 00:41:56 - What’s the official distance of the trail? 00:44:08 - What’s an overview of the trail’s terrain? 00:50:00 - Trail history 00:52:50 - What type of pace and water crossings should thru-hikers expect? 00:56:00 - When’s the best time to hike the OHT? 00:57:50 - Is the guidebook the recommended form of navigation? 01:00:00 - Discussion about how busy the trail is 01:01:42 - What is the camping situation like? 01:05:13 - What are the resupply options like? 01:12:12 - Do you hike with the bear can that you use to stash food? 01:15:07 - What would you say is the highlight stretch of the trail? 01:20:05 - What kind of wildlife should someone expect to see at different times of year? 01:23:15 - What could someone expect as highs and lows for each season? 01:31:16 - Can this hike be done in full with a dog? 01:34:00 - Sell someone on the Ozark Highlands Trail! 01:36:55 - Where can someone get more information? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The Lost Sierra Route Plans to Connect 15 Mountain Towns Over A 600-mile Stretch by Colleen Goldhorn Gross or Not Gross Listener Voicemail (and leave us your own!) Triple Crown of things you do you’re ashamed of Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Cameron Brown, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Felecia Moran, known on trail as Dora the Explorer. We talk about Dora's many thru-hikes, including the PCT, Wonderland Trail, Colorado Trail, CDT, AT SOBO, and more. We touch on what it's like to backpack with an eating disorder and body dysmorphia. Dora is especially candid about this subject and we hope it provides value to others who may be battling the same or similar issues. We wrap the show with a quick overview of some of the best down jackets for thru-hiking, a triple crown of hipster baby names, a premature gear evaluation of a popular hiking boot, and more. OnX Backcountry: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO20” for 20% off a Premium or Elite Membership at onxmaps.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Dora the Explorer Dora's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:01 - QOTD: What’s the appropriate celebration for spring equinox? 00:10:30 - Introducing Dora 00:11:47 - What got you into the outdoors? 00:14:16 - What made you pick the PCT instead of the AT? 00:15:26 - What went wrong in 2012? 00:16:30 - Have you had different trail romances? 00:19:31 - Was it love at first sight with thru-hiking? 00:20:20 - What hardships did you go through on the PCT? 00:21:20 - Tell us about hiking in sandals 00:25:30 - Discussion about treating water 00:27:08 - What gear have you added back in that you might have trimmed in the beginning? 00:30:05 - What gear do you still want to upgrade? 00:35:27 - Did you know right after finishing the PCT that you’d thru-hike again next year? 00:36:32 - How do you make thru-hiking sustainable from a job perspective? 00:41:48 - Tell us about the Wonderland Trail 00:44:15 - Tell us about the Timberline Trail 00:45:50 - What were your experiences like with the water crossings? 00:46:40 - Tell us about the Colorado Trail 00:47:33 - How would you differentiate the Colorado Trail from the CDT? 00:48:30 - Tell us about your section hike of the PCT in 2015 00:49:08 - At what point did you move into the minivan? 00:51:30 - Discussion about going back and forth from the trail to nannying 00:53:22 - Tell us about your relationship with Instagram in the context of backpacking 00:58:40 - Tell us about the Continental Divide Trail in 2016 01:01:40 - How do eating disorders and body dysmorphia interact with backpacking? 01:04:00 - In what way has thru-hiking been helpful? 01:07:19 - Do you have any advice for someone who struggles with eating disorders? 01:09:57 - Anything else you want to share on this subject? 01:10:44 - Is the binging culture on trail potentially triggering? 01:13:10 - How did the spirit of your hike change once your partner joined you? 01:15:50 - Why did you need to upgrade your mental game on the CDT? 01:18:22 - What do you attribute to the Colorado Blues? 01:19:08 - Tell us about the AT 01:23:40 - How many bugs did you experience? 01:25:13 - How did you feel about completing your Triple Crown? 01:26:30 - Why do you think you’ve gotten less social while hiking? 01:28:00 - Tell us about the bikepacking routes you’ve done 01:31:35 - Talk someone into bikepacking 01:33:52 - What parting messages do you want to share? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Best Down Jackets for Thru-Hiking of 2023 Triple Crown of hipster baby names Premature Gear Evaluation Listener Voicemail (and leave us your own!) Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Cameron Brown, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined once again by Quadzilla.  We of course go deep on his calendar year triple crown from last year, getting a play-by-play of his standout highlights, lowlights, and everything in between from his epic 8,000-mile adventure. Much like Quadzilla's first appearance, this one is full of sage advice for on trail and off, including how he handles isolationism, dealing with the doldrums, and the importance of staying present.  This one of course does not disappoint. We wrap the show with the Triple Crown of previously held backpacking convictions you’ve changed your mind on, some news on Mt Washington's recent -108 degree day, and a new stupid thing of the week.   Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Goodr: Use code “BACKPACKER” for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Jack “Quadzilla” Jones Quadzilla's Instagram Get Quadzilla's coffee table photography book! Time stamps & Questions 00:04:53 - QOTD: Should Kraft mac n’ cheese be eaten with a fork or a spoon? 00:07:15 - Reminders: Future of BPR :( 00:12:20 - Introducing Quadzilla 00:13:45 - Introduce us to the Calendar Year Triple Crown and what inspired you to do it 00:15:44 - Have we crossed any boundaries talking about your quads? 00:17:27 - Tell us about your ideal weight and your trail diet 00:19:40 - Give us some background on the general CYTC facts 00:22:18 - Tell us about the winter weather you experienced on the AT 00:27:44 - Did you have anything to self-arrest with? 00:28:26 - Did your weightlifting background give you an advantage in the snow? 00:29:14 - Was Vermont the first place you consistently saw winter weather? 00:31:01 - Was there any part of you that wished you got off and switched trails? 00:32:28 - What was your camera setup? 00:34:57 - Have you ever considered making a quads calendar or OnlyFans? 00:36:35 - Do you have any trail photography hacks? 00:38:07 - Tell us about your wildlife encounters and photos 00:40:56 - Why did you also take video clips? 00:44:05 - Were you intentionally more introspective in what you shared about your journey? 00:47:28 - How do you process everything publicly? 00:49:30 - Tell us about battling isolationism 00:53:38 - Do you have thoughts on what a cure could be? 00:57:39 - Tell us more about recognizing when you’re in the doldrums of a hike 01:01:36 - How would you compare the AT? 01:04:10 - Did you consider timing where you would be during a potential low point? 01:07:00 - What are your top “holy shit” moments from the CYTC? 01:09:08 - Quadzilla’s poop story 01:10:00 - Did you hike with other people at any point? 01:12:45 - How did you then pull away from the social aspect and return to hiking solo? 01:14:36 - How often did you get recognized? 01:18:02 - Did that experience make you rethink the next hitch? 01:21:03 - If you could go back and relive a day from each of the trails, which would it be? 01:23:10 - When you got past the San Juans, was there a big sigh of relief? 01:25:27 - What kind of gear did you carry over the course of the year? 01:29:22 - Do you have the layering company to hike in cold temperatures? 01:31:25 - Discussion about waterproof socks 01:31:50 - Days Quadzilla would relive on the AT and CDT 01:34:16 - Discussion about smashing watermelons 01:38:40 - How did the CDT this year compare to the first time you hiked it? 01:41:40 - Are there certain restaurants or towns you knew you wanted to visit a second time? 01:44:42 - Did you keep track of your food or macros while hiking? 01:45:53 - Did any particular food item keep your interest for the entire journey? 01:47:23 - Did you take any supplements? 01:50:24 - What did your 5,000 calories consist of? 01:52:16 - Did you intentionally drink a certain amount of water? 01:53:50 - Tell us about getting sponsored for your hike 01:55:08 - Did you find any romance on the trail? 01:58:01 - What plans do you have for this year? 02:01:00 - Where can people buy your book? 02:02:30 - Anything else to share before you leave? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Mount Washington’s -108 Degree Wind Chill Breaks US Record by Rachel Shoemaker Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of previously held backpacking convictions you’ve changed your mind on Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Lt Cookoo Bird. Cookoo's a name you've heard on this podcast before, he's been a hiking partner of Jabba's for many years and he was the third member of our Wind River High route trek in 2019. Today's episode is a certified marathon, as Cookoo delights us with tales from trails all over the country, including the time he got a hitch from a prostitute, tindering his way along the West Coast, cycling from Oregon to Maine with his mom, befriending countless strangers, and much more. This one is an instant Backpacker Radio classic. We wrap the show with a triple crown of non-traditional burger toppings, confirmation that boxers are in fact the dumbest dog breed, and some tips for hiking in the rain on the Appalachian Trail. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Lt. Cookoo Bird Bruce's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:35 - QOTD: What is the appropriate amount of time to wait to ask to eat someone’s pickle? 00:08:20 - Reminders: Vote for BPR in the Sports Podcast Awards! 00:09:25 - Introducing Bruce 00:10:08 - Tell us your trail name origin story. 00:13:40 - Why did you start with the Long Trail? 00:15:45 - Would you say the Appalachian Trail was your most formative hike? 00:16:30 - Tell us about your vow of silence on the AT. 00:21:39 - What was Jabba like in 2013? 00:23:10 - Any other standout stories from the AT? 00:25:02 - Give us the background on hiker gangs. 00:28:15 - Discussion about Riff Raff 00:36:39 - What are the different groups like? 00:38:48 - What is the interaction like between groups? 00:40:40 - Tell us about the Adirondack 46ers. 00:45:00 - How did the Adirondacks compare to trails you’d done before? 00:46:02 - Was the Sierra High Route next? 00:47:00 - Getting to the Lost Coast Trail 01:01:50 - Tell us about the Lost Coast Trail 01:05:50 - Getting to the Sierra High Route 01:12:20 - Tell us about the Sierra High Route. 01:16:54 - What is camping like on the Sierra High Route? 01:18:15 - How much is on trail versus off? 01:19:44 - Tell us the story of almost getting kicked off a bus. 01:26:55 - Tell us about the bike tour with your mom. 01:30:45 - What did you learn about your mom while biking from coast to coast? 01:32:02 - How would you describe your relationship to your mom prior to the trip? 01:34:22 - Did your relationship change over the course of the trip? 01:38:17 - How did the bike trip compare to your thru-hikes? 01:41:24 - Anything else to share from the ride? 01:42:30 - Tell us about your adventures in 2017. 01:52:00 - Discussion about Mt. Washington 01:53:58 - Biking around Lake Superior 02:00:50 - Disassembling a barn in Iowa 02:02:00 - Trying MCT oil 02:04:30 - Discussion about Bruce’s love life 02:06:30 - Tell us about the first attempt of the Hayduke in 2019 02:14:30 - Story about burning his foot on the Hayduke 02:27:10 - Switching to hike with Jabba in Escalante  02:29:40 - Interview pause: twin update 02:32:49 - Tell us about the Wind River High Route 02:43:00 - Story about bailing off the Wind River High Route 02:50:00 - Tell us about redeeming yourself with a class 5 climb in the Tetons SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 12 Helpful Tips for Dealing With Rain While Hiking the Appalachian Trail by Kelly Floro Patent Pending Triple Crown of non-traditional burger toppings Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are yet again talking all things hiking the PCT in a high snow year. This episode was recorded in early March, now that we have a clearer picture of what the 2023 hiking season will look like, and it is historically snowy. Today's episode features a pair of interviews- first we are joined by Daniel Winsor, 2017 PCT NOBO thru-hiker and author of "Crunch: A Million Snowy Steps Along the Pacific Crest Trail". Daniel was one of the first people through the Sierra in 2017, another historically high snow year, and shares in detail what his experience looked like, including his preferred traction, how to safely navigate high water crossings, the importance of traveling with a group, the schedule necessary for making miles, his close calls, and more. We are then joined by Ned Tibbits, founder of Mountain Education, a non-profit, public charity wilderness school that has been teaching people how to safely backpack year-round since 1982. Ned gives us even more nitty gritty detail about his advice for navigating the Sierra in high snow, including the safest time to enter the Sierra, the proper traction equipment, managing water crossings, and more. A lot of Ned and Daniel's advice overlaps, some of it deviates. Importantly- the advice issued in today's show is for informational purposes only. This is not intended to and should not be relied upon solely for how to navigate dangerous, backpacking conditions, which the PCT is sure to offer this year and beyond. Please seek the guidance of a skilled instructor for learning how to backpack through high snow and do not rely solely on any podcast, this one included. We wrap the show with two very embarrassing stories for ole Badger. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Treecard: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 1,000 free reward points at treecard.org. [divider] Interview with Daniel Winsor and Ned Tibbits Daniel’s book: Crunch: A Million Snowy Steps Along the Pacific Crest Trail Daniel’s Instagram Ned’s Courses: Mountain Education Mountain Education Facebook Page Time stamps & Questions 00:05:54 - QOTD: Do you prefer dry food or wet food? 00:09:42 - Reminders: Take our listener survey! Support us on Patreon! 00:11:23 - Introducing the episode and Daniel 00:13:47 - Tell us your outdoors experience. 00:16:52 - What prep did you do before hiking the PCT in 2017? 00:20:19 - How much of your prep was self-taught versus watching tutorials? 00:23:50 - Tell us your start date and when you reached Kennedy Meadows. 00:26:00 - What was your mindset at the start of the Sierra? 00:29:49 - What were other people’s mindsets at the start of the Sierra? 00:36:10 - Did you encounter sketchy parts of trail prior to reaching the Sierra? 00:39:05 - Which conditions are better for crampons versus microspikes? 00:43:30 - What are your opinions on snowshoes or skis? 00:48:08 - What other gear changes did you make going from desert to snow? 00:55:00 - What were the snow conditions like given that you were so early in the season? 01:03:10 - Discussion about 2017 Sierra incidents 01:18:30 - Can you talk about your approach to water crossings? 01:23:06 - Was there a chain of command within your group? 01:27:38 - What other non-obvious advice do you have? 01:29:42 - Walk us through the schedule of your typical day in the Sierra.  01:32:30 - What other elements were particularly difficult to deal with? 01:36:15 - What signs did you look for to indicate if you were walking over water? 01:39:23 - If someone was on the fence about the Sierra this year, what should their thought process be? 01:42:25 - Where to find Daniel’s book 01:44:15 - Introducing Ned Tibbits 01:45:53 - Tell us about hiking the PCT in 1974. 01:51:00 - How did you plan your PCT hike? 01:54:18 - Were there other people on the trail? 01:55:20 - How did you stay so connected to the trail all this time? 01:59:15 - Have you ever estimated how many hours you’ve spent traveling on snow? 02:01:35 - Can you put into context what we’re looking at for the 2022-2023 winter? 02:09:38 - Is March the right time to start, or no? 02:15:58 - Do you have thoughts on the safest window for entering the Sierra? 02:20:28 - What day would be Ned Day? 02:24:14 - What are the requisite skills a PCT hiker should have before arriving at Campo? 02:29:50 - Can you talk about an ice ax versus a whippet? 02:38:00 - Is using a whippet ever risky during water crossing scenarios? 02:49:10 - Discussion about traction 03:01:10 - What’s your take on the appropriateness of snowshoes? 03:06:27 - Can you talk about pitching a tent in snow? 03:11:30 - What’s your top advice for dealing with water crossings in a high snow year? 03:25:29 - For river crossings in general, what shoes should I wear? 03:31:51 - Where can people find more information from you? SEGMENTS Stupid Thing of the Week [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Alex Brown, known on trail as GPS. In addition to thru-hiking the CDT- with a Nolans 14 bonus- and more recently, the Pfiffner Traverse, we go deep on gear talk with GPS, as he is a certified gear nerd with a passion and deep knowledge of material sciences. We talk about some of the drawbacks of Dyneema Composite Fabric, what gear fabrics he's most excited about, when ultralight goes too far, and more. We wrap the chat with a discussion around the Ethics of Geotagging on Social Media. We close out the show with a new patent-pending, the triple crown of small things that are never not funny, and a new stupid thing of the week. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Treecard: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 1,000 free reward points at treecard.org. [divider] Interview with Alex “GPS” Brown Alex's Instagram Alex's Trek Profile Time stamps & Questions 00:04:48 - QOTD: What’s something you can’t find at a store that’s been driving you crazy lately? 00:11:18 - Reminders: Vote for BPR in the Sports Podcast Awards!  00:12:53 - Introducing GPS 00:13:27 - Tell us about architecture! 00:16:15 - Why did you want to become an architect? 00:17:26 - What got you into backpacking? 00:19:00 - What did you learn in the Boy Scouts? 00:20:38 - Where did the Long Trail come on your radar? 00:22:52 - What made you decide to hike the CDT as your first thru-hike? 00:24:18 - How did you prepare for the CDT? 00:25:19 - How did you decide to use a tarp tent? 00:27:30 - Is DCF overrated? Read Alex’s Trek article on the subject 00:30:12 - How does your interest in this overlap with your architecture skills? 00:32:19 - Is it bad to fold up your tent? 00:33:10 - What tents would you recommend for a modest budget? 00:34:37 - Do you think there will be a future material that surpasses what’s currently available? 00:38:55 - Are there any companies that are using the ultra fabric? 00:40:54 - How do you recommend people store their tents? 00:43:28 - Did you get a chance to test the Big Agnes DCF tent? 00:46:05 - Tell us about your CDT pack 00:51:23 - Tell us about your sleeping bag and pad 00:55:25 - Tell us about the Nolans 14 portion of the CDT 00:56:01 - Give us the Nolans 14 basics 00:57:55 - What was the inspiration for making the CDT more difficult? 00:59:04 - Discussion of the Wind River High Route 01:00:12 - Were you surprised by how smooth things had gone? 01:00:48 - How did you manage your weight and diet on the CDT? 01:03:30 - What did your town days look like? 01:05:30 - How would Chaunce eat 5,000 calories in a day? 01:07:57 - What were the highlights from New Mexico? 01:09:08 - What was your longest mile day on the CDT? 01:11:19 - Tell us about the Pfiffner Traverse 01:15:07 - Was it nerve-wracking to do your first solo trip with paper maps? 01:16:05 - Who would you recommend to the Pfiffner Traverse? 01:17:03 - What are you planning for 2023? 01:17:40 - What do you do on the weekends near Aspen? 01:19:25 - What’s your stance on geotagging? Read Alex’s Trek article on the subject 01:25:10 - Discussion about age and use of social media 01:29:09 - What do you love about the X-Mid? 01:30:50 - Have you thought about designing your own gear? 01:31:27 - What does your ideal kit look like? 01:35:26 - Tell us about shoes 01:39:58 - What are some examples of stupid light? Read Alex’s Trek article on the subject 01:42:38 - Why do you say you don’t need to overplan for a thru-hike? 01:45:41 - How did you get your trail name? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The Top Sleeping Bags, Quilts, and Pads on the Appalachian Trail: 2022 Thru-Hiker Survey by Kate Richard Patent Pending Triple Crown of small things that are never not funny 5 Star Review New Chuck Norris Award Patron Benefit [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are chatting all things Pacific Crest Trail, round two. We are joined by our pal and two-time PCT thru-hiker, Michael "Grizzly" Ivey to talk through our top advice for hiking the PCT, with a special emphasis on doing so during a high snow year, which 2023 is shaping up to be. We go through suggestions for traveling through a snowy Sierra, including estimating food carries, how to approach water crossings, grouping, self-arresting skills, and more. We also chat through some more general tips including how to budget zero days, evaluating what type of hiker you are, and how to mentally approach the hike overall during a year with a large potential for chaos. We wrap the panel by breaking down how our gear changed from one section to the next during our own PCT hikes. If you like the PCT, we think you'll love this episode. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Good To-Go: Use code “TREK25” for 25% off at goodto-go.com. Goodr: Use code “BACKPACKER” for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] PCT Panel with Chaunce, Badger, and Grizzly Grizzly's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:04 - QOTD: If you worked in fast food, would you prioritize the drive-thru orders or the in-store orders? 00:08:20 - Reminders: Vote for BPR in the Sports Podcast Awards! Replace sweet sweet Leah and become our video person! 00:12:53 - Introducing Grizzly 00:15:33 - Zach Tip #1: Be ready for everything that comes with a high snow year 00:18:10 - Daniel’s 2017 High Snow Year Trek post 00:21:10 - Zach Tip #1a: You can’t carry too much food 00:25:38 - Zach Tip #1b: Creek crossings in swift water above your mid-thigh are dangerous 00:30:26 - Discussion about snow bridges 00:33:01 - Zach Tip #1c: Avoid hiking solo, especially at water crossings 00:39:31 - Chaunce Tip #1: Know your own limitations 00:43:27 - Grizzly’s trail resume 00:47:10 - Grizzly Tip #1: Identify what kind of hiker you are and how that will affect your hike 00:50:51 - Zach Tip #2: Go into your hike with a flexible mindset 00:59:00 - Chaunce Tip #2: Learn how to self-arrest and practice it before getting on trail 01:05:25 - Grizzly Tip #2: No matter how dialed in your gear is, you’ll learn something new 01:14:03 - Chaunce Tip #3: Budget your zero days 01:23:37 - Zach Tip #3: Sun umbrellas are the shit 01:29:03 - Shoutout to Rachel! 01:29:20 - Grizzly’s PCT gear swaps 01:36:25 - Discussion about shoes 01:39:35 - Chaunce’s PCT gear swaps 01:40:50 - Zach’s PCT gear swaps 01:46:00 - Favorite spots in the desert 01:52:00 - Discussion about trail angels near the southern terminus 01:54:44 - Favorite spots in the Sierra/NorCal 01:59:20 - Favorite spots in Oregon 02:02:40 - Favorite spots in Washington SEGMENTS 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Brian Tanzman, known on trail as Buck-30. Buck-30 has amassed more than 45,000 trail miles since getting into backpacking two decades ago. We go through his immense trail resume, including all the trails you've heard of and some you haven't such as the Bigfoot Trail, Israel National Trail, the Hot Springs Trail, Great Himalaya Trail, the Desert Trail, the Deseret Hiking Route, and more. Much like Buck-30 himself, this interview covers a lot of ground- if you love thru-hiking you will get some solid insight and entertainment from this conversation. We wrap the show with the top sleeping bags and quilts used on the Appalachian Trail, the triple crown of features of a dream house, a new stupidest thing of the week, and more. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Good To-Go: Use code “TREK25” for 25% off at goodto-go.com. Treecard: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 1,000 free reward points at treecard.org. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Brian “Buck-30” Tanzman Buck-30's Postholer Buck-30's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:24 - QOTD: What do you wish you knew more about? 00:07:28 - Reminders: Apply to blog for the Trek, check out our latest merch, and support us on Patreon! 00:09:00 - Introducing Buck-30 00:09:55 - How did you get into the outdoors? 00:12:05 - At what point did the appeal of long distance hiking sink in? 00:15:19 - Did 9/11 have anything to do with starting hiking? 00:16:58 - How do you make this lifestyle work with your career?00:21:23 - What standout stories do you have from the Triple Crown trails? 00:24:30 - Why do you call yourself “old, grumpy, and opinionated”? 00:28:45 - Tell us about marrying and divorcing another Triple Crowner. 00:33:30 - Discussion about the Arizona Trail 00:35:17 - Discussion about the Australian trails 00:39:20 - Did you see any interesting wildlife in Australia? 00:43:20 - What does the terrain look like in Australia? 00:44:10 - Tell us about the San Diego Sea to Sea 00:46:23 - Did you hike both islands on the Te Araroa? 00:49:30 - Is there an exclusive group chat for people who’ve hiked all of the Scenic Trails? 00:50:32 - Backpacker Radio Missed Connection! 00:52:18 - Tell us about the Pacific Northwest Trail 00:55:22 - What did you hate about the Ice Age Trail? 01:01:13 - Tell us about your experience of the Hayduke 01:02:17 - At what point in your hiking career did you start using a GPS device? 01:05:50 - Tell us about the Bigfoot Trail 01:06:30 - Tell us about the Finger Lakes Trail 01:08:33 - Tell us about the Lowest to Highest Route 01:11:25 - Tell us about the Israel National Trail 01:14:42 - Tell us about hiking in Patagonia 01:17:35 - Tell us about the Hot Springs Trail 01:21:42 - Are the hot springs right along the trail or off-trail? 01:23:20 - How much nudity did you see on this trail? 01:24:40 - How much of the route is trail, road-walking, or route-finding? 01:25:45 - If someone wanted to do a 300-400 mile section, what would you recommend? 01:27:00 - Tell us about the Great Himalaya Trail 01:30:30 - Discussion about not treating water and getting sick in Nepal 01:33:45 - Tell us about the New England National Scenic Trail 01:35:26 - Ranking the National Scenic Trails 1-7 01:43:22 - Discussion about encountering angry dogs on trail 01:46:00 - Ranking the National Scenic Trails 8-11 01:50:29 - Tell us about the Mongollon Rim Trail 01:51:20 - Tell us about the Desert Trail 01:53:37 - Do you have any tips for people new to hiking in the desert? 01:56:02 - Tell us about the Oregon Coast Trail 01:59:45 - Tell us about the Desert Hiking Route 02:03:54 - Tell us about the Great Basin Trail 02:05:34 - Buck-30’s poop story 02:10:15 - Tell us about the Desert Winter Thru-Hike 02:13:37 - Buck-30 convinces Zach that thru-hiking is way better than cycling SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The Top Sleeping Bags, Quilts, and Pads on the Appalachian Trail: 2022 Thru-Hiker Survey by Kate Richard Triple Crown of features in a dream house Stupid Thing of the Week Listener Voicemail (and leave us your own!) 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Christine Reed.  Christine is a backpacker, climber, runner, and author.  Her book, Alone in Wonderland, is a memoir covering not only her thru-hike of the Wonderland Trail, but also the emotional and gripping story of her life and foray into backpacking.  Today's subject matter is vast, including but not limited to Christine's mom unexpectedly passing during her attempted AT thru-hike, polyamory, van life, logistics of thru-hiking the Wonderland Trail, and how Christine deals with POTS- a medical acronym that I refuse to butcher but it pertains to reduced blood volume and makes exercising much more challenging.   We wrap the show with advice from AT ridge runners, a triple crown of old people's names, a fresh stupid thing of the week, and more!   Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Treecard: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 1,000 free reward points at treecard.org. [divider] Interview with Christine Reed Christine's Instagram Alone in Wonderland Website Time stamps & Questions 00:05:05 - QOTD: How’s dry January going? 00:12:24 - Reminders: Check out our Stay Feral shirts! 00:16:07 - Introducing Christine 00:17:55 - How and when did you get interested in the AT? 00:19:42 - What was your preparation strategy? 00:20:44 - What were the circumstances in your life at that time? 00:22:10 - How did you handle your parents not being supportive of your hike? 00:26:11 - What did the right gear look like in 2013-2015? 00:28:18 - Did your parents eventually warm up to the idea? 00:30:52 - What was it like to get back on trail after that? 00:33:00 - Tell us about the end of your hike and how you felt about it. 00:37:23 - What did your life look like after the AT? 00:39:33 - Have you ever considered going back to hike more of the AT? 00:41:05 - What was the inspiration to hike the Wonderland Trail? 00:43:45 - How many caches do you need for the Wonderland Trail? 00:44:34 - Tell us about the themes of isolation and loneliness in your book. 00:47:28 - Tell us about polyamory. 00:56:30 - How did polyamory interact with your hiking experiences? 00:59:25 - Were you always good at setting boundaries? 01:00:12 - Is there a difference between perceptions of men and women in polyamory? 01:01:52 - Tell us about the process of getting a walk up permit for the Wonderland Trail. 01:04:23 - Discussion about the Wonderland Trail campsites 01:06:10 - What led you to make this hike the subject of a book? 01:10:00 - Tell us about getting your spine fused. 01:13:21 - Is the PT all you needed to hike without issue? 01:14:34 - What is POTS and how does it affect your hiking? 01:18:36 - Does POTS put you at higher risk for a cardiac event? 01:21:57 - Are there any medications for POTS? 01:26:00 - How did the Ouachita FKT attempt go? 01:31:26 - Can you compare and contrast the physical experience of doing a FKT or a 50K? 01:33:13 - What are some of your favorite hiking foods? 01:35:23 - What should someone know about vanlife who’s considering it? 01:37:40 - What challenges often catch people off guard? 01:42:08 - Do you have any other vanlife hacks? 01:44:03 - Do you have any simple products you recommend for vanlifers? 01:46:06 - What’s on the horizon for you? SEGMENTS Backcountry Meal Critics: Bushka’s Kitchen Stupid Thing of the Week Trek Propaganda 4 Ridgerunners Share Their Top Advice for AT Thru-Hikers by Ann Marie White Triple Crown of old person names Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by Good To-Go, the studio is transforming into a love lodge as we interview not one but two Hiker Trash couples. Liz and Matt (aka Chuckles and Frisky) and Nat and Matt (aka Bart and Party Tart) give us a glimpse into how their relationships came to be, the highlights and lowlights of thru-hiking with a significant other, and some of their top trail-tested advice for maintaining a relationship on trail and off.  The format for today is chaotic yet fun, as we kick things off with a round of The Newlywed Game and transition into rotating sessions of seven minutes in heaven. I promise that will make sense here shortly. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Good To-Go: Use code “TREK25” for 25% off at goodto-go.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Liz, Matt, Nat, and Matt Liz's Instagram Matt's Instagram Nat & Matt's Instagram Nat's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:45 - QOTD: How frequently do you have dreams that your relationship ends and wake up panicked? 00:09:45 - Introducing the interviewees 00:11:52 - The Newlywed Game: Nat and Matt 00:29:07 - The Newlywed Game: Liz and Matt 00:30:30 - Outa Ware pants 00:41:20 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 1: Nat and Matt 00:43:08 - Give us the full rundown of your PCT hike in 2019. 00:47:04 - Were you apprehensive going into the PCT? 00:48:30 - What is it like prepping for a thru-hike as a couple? 00:50:49 - Walk us through rearranging who would carry what? 00:54:26 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 2: Liz and Matt 00:55:02 - Tell us your trail name origin stories. 01:03:08 - Frisky and Chuckle’s origin story 01:10:22 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 3: Nat and Matt 01:19:33 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 4: Liz and Matt 01:20:20 - What’s your most embarrassing partner story from trail? 01:30:30 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 5: Nat and Matt 01:31:04 - What was your biggest fight on trail? 01:33:04 - How do you avoid fights on trail? 01:37:00 - What made you realize you were being competitive? 01:38:29 - Do you have a conflict resolution strategy? 01:44:08 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 6: Liz and Matt 01:44:56 - What was your biggest fight on the PCT? 01:50:07 - What was your biggest fight on the CDT? 01:56:57 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 7: Nat and Matt 01:57:10 - Guiding for Skurka 01:58:33 - What is your most R-rated trail story? 02:05:40 - When was the first time you had sex in a tent? 02:08:33 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 8: Liz and Matt 02:12:25 - Were there any other questions you were expecting? 02:15:38 - If you had one piece of advice for someone going on a thru-hike with a partner, who would it be? 02:24:18 - What are other things that should go on a pre-trail couple’s contract? SEGMENTS Triple Crown of bad or embarrassing date moments [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Good To-Go, we are joined by Chris Priest and Duncan Say, authors of "Forty years, sixteen days: Will two old friends walk the Pennine Way - again?" As the title implies, Chris and Duncan hiked this 268-mile trail in the UK twice, forty years apart. We learn all about this trail, including why the duo thinks it's the best long-distance trail in all of the UK, how it's changed over the years, the culture that surrounds the trail, some of the standout highlights along the trail, and considerations for those who choose to travel from abroad to hike it. We also get some fun, standout stories from these journeys and the book. Prepare to expand your trail bucket list. We wrap the show with our irrational fears, a triple crown of our most unpopular opinions, the top tents on the Appalachian Trail, a voicemail from an international listener about which cell carrier is best for the AT, and more. Good To-Go: Use code “TREK25” for 25% off at goodto-go.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Chris & Duncan Chris & Duncan’s Instagram Chris & Duncan’s Blog Forty years, sixteen days Time stamps & Questions 00:04:43 - QOTD: What is your irrational fear? 00:16:38 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon! Apply to blog for the Trek! 00:19:12 - Introducing Chris and Duncan 00:20:12 - How did you two meet and become friends? 00:22:11 - Tell us about your backgrounds and careers. 00:27:14 - What is the English terminology for hiking? 00:27:57 - Give us a primer on the Pennine Way. 00:30:30 - Is green the normal aesthetic across all of England? 00:34:12 - Is there an advantage to hiking the trail in a certain direction? 00:35:53 - What could someone expect weatherwise on this trail? 00:38:00 - Discussion about the popularity of English trails over time 00:39:35 - What are some advantages of the Pennine Way over the Coast to Coast Trail? 00:41:06 - How often do you walk through towns? 00:43:25 - Are there specific ‘can’t-miss’ pubs or sights along the trail? 00:48:26 - Tell us about the difficulty of the terrain. 00:51:00 - Tell us about the accommodations and camping on trail. 00:54:28 - What is the cost of the accommodations? 00:56:35 - How much did you have to budget for the full trip? 00:57:56 - What meals did you crave in town? 00:59:55 - Did you book accommodations in advance or the day of? 01:00:53 - What was the range of temperatures that you experienced? 01:03:00 - Discussion about wind 01:04:53 - Are there any historical places along the trail? 01:07:44 - Describe the designated campsites and wild camping 01:13:45 - Fuck Marry Kill: Pennine Way, Coast to Coast Trail, West Highland Way 01:18:00 - Discussion about British culture on trail 01:19:01 - If you could go back and relive one of the hikes, which would you pick? 01:23:36 - Is it true that you wore jeans and sweaters the first time? 01:25:20 - Tell us about the WhatsApp message. 01:29:33 - Tell us about the Bristol Stool Chart. 01:32:00 - What types of wildlife do you see on the trail? 01:35:50 - Are there any good English wool companies for hiking apparel? 01:37:55 - Are there rules about shitting on someone’s private property? 01:39:42 - Where should listeners go to learn more? SEGMENTS Stupid Thing of the Week Trek Propaganda Top Tents and Shelters on the Appalachian Trail: 2022 Thru-Hiker Survey by Kate Richard Triple Crown of unpopular opinions Mail Bag Listener Voicemail 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are breaking out the champagne and bringing you a super juicy show in celebration of Backpacker Radio's 5 year anniversary. We catch up with six of your and our favorite guests over the past handful of years, we reminisce on our favorite memories of the podcast (including the time Chaunce almost got fired), and give you a bit of a behind-the-scenes of how the sausage is made. In typical Backpacker Radio fashion, this episode is an ultra-marathon. Sorry in advance. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Goodr: Use code “BACKPACKER” for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Time stamps & Questions 00:05:20 - QOTD: Are you willing to make a bet? 00:13:10 - Reminders: Badger sponsorship launches today! Buy our Stay Feral merch! 00:15:45 - Structure of this episode 00:21:30 - A random podcast memory 00:24:20 - Guest 1: Weezer 00:27:20 - Weezer’s love interest update 00:30:20 - What’s your advice for romance on trail? 00:35:34 - Guest 2: Professor 00:37:40 - What happened after we last spoke to you? 00:40:50 - Do you have any standout stories since we last spoke? 00:44:10 - What were your emotions when you finished the PCT? 00:46:15 - What’s next for you? 00:51:38 - Are you still excited to do more trail things in the future? 00:54:55 - Guest 3: Nancy East 00:57:10 - Tell us about the Superior Hiking Trail! 01:01:10 - What was the town experience like? 01:02:33 - How is your book doing? 01:04:10 - What are your hiking plans for 2023? 01:04:55 - Tell us about the Centennial Trail. 01:08:29 - Guest 4: Kevin Conley 01:10:30 - What are you up to? 01:14:20 - Sing your song for us. 01:21:46 - What reception did you get from your interview? 01:25:15 - What else do you have planned for this year? 01:26:48 - Get Kevin’s book. 01:29:41 - Guest 5: Matt “Pretzel” Mason 01:36:00 - Tell us about climbing the ranks in the fire world. 01:39:33 - Tell us about the snow sports you’re doing. 01:43:30 - What is an avalanche pit? 01:44:33 - What’s scarier: fire or snow? 01:45:35 - What’s your advice to thru-hikers considering fires? 01:47:20 - Do you see anything in the thru-hiking world you think could be improved? 01:52:20 - What do you have planned for the future? 01:56:30 - Zach gives Pretzel an honor! 02:03:50 - Reminiscing about the start of the podcast begins 02:43:54 - 2019 reminiscing  02:55:11 - Guest 6: Elise “SOS” Ott 02:59:50 - 2021 reminiscing 03:19:20 - What are Elise’s big plans for 2023? 03:24:00 - 2022 reminiscing 03:28:40 - Chatting with Rachel 03:38:17 - Chatting with Leah [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again joined by Patricia Cameron. We catch up on all that she's been up to since our last interview, including a NOLS mountaineering leadership course in Alaska, a 2022 LASH on the PCT, and a hiker trash prom hosted by her organization, Blackpackers. Patricia also shares a distressing story of her being the victim of a hate crime during her PCT hike in Lone Pine, California, in which she caught the entire encounter on video. We play the audio from this incident, get Patricia's take on exactly what went down, some of her thoughts on the risk and reception of being a hiker of color through these rural towns, and despite this incident, why she has no plans to stop long-distance backpacking anytime soon. A warning to listeners that the audio from this video is triggering, but I do believe that it's important for everyone in the community to hear this and get a sense of the depressing reality that still persists for many of our fellow hikers. We wrap the show with a few reasons why a flip-flop thru-hike might be the way to go on the AT, a triple crown of non-dog pets, a superb listener poop story, and more. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Patricia Cameron Blackpacker's Website Patricia’s Twitter Patricia’s Instagram Blackpackers Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:06:50 - QOTD: Would you take 5 years off your life to talk back and forth with your dog for one hour? 00:11:45 - Reminders: subscribe to the Trek newsletter for news about the Badger Sponsorship 00:12:20 - Introducing Patricia 00:13:14 - What have you been up to since March of 2021? 00:14:54 - What does a person do on a glacier for 2 weeks? 00:18:41 - What inspired you to take the class and learn these winter skills? 00:20:03 - How does a day on a glacier compare to a day of backpacking? 00:22:02 - What skill were you most excited to learn? 00:24:35 - How did you transition from Alaska to Kennedy Meadows? 00:25:30 - Tell us about starting on the PCT 00:26:40 - Discussion about cold soaking and food planning 00:28:33 - What made the PCT harder than you were expecting? 00:33:27 - Tell us about hiking after injuring your leg. 00:35:11 - Did you consider getting off trail? 00:36:01 - Tell us about the incident that happened in Lone Pine. 00:40:25 - *Trigger warning: Audio clip starts* 00:41:22 - *Trigger warning: Audio clip ends* 00:42:30 - Were you scared at that moment? 00:42:45 - Were you more or less scared going back to trail after that? 00:45:38 - Tell us more about Nicole and Girls Fight Back 00:46:43 - Is there a part of you that feels vindicated by capturing the incident on video? 00:50:18 - What will it take for you to feel safe going to Lone Pine? 00:53:48 - What do you want the listener to take away from hearing this? 00:56:48 - How did the incident impact the rest of your hike, particularly in trail towns? 01:00:30 - Any parting messages related to this? 01:01:04 - Where did your LASH end? 01:03:30 - Discussion about Amtrak ride from Truckee to Denver 01:06:00 - Discussion about the Tahoe Rim Trail 01:08:20 - Would you recommend the TRT to others? 01:10:00 - Tell us about your Good Morning America interview 01:14:15 - Discussion about public speaking 01:15:40 - Tell us about Hiker Trash Prom 01:17:48 - What’s coming up for Blackpackers in 2023? 01:20:00 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 6 Reasons a Flip-Flop Thru-Hike of the Appalachian Trail Is the Right Way To Go by Richard “Crossword” Guenther That’s all, Folks. by MG Hibionada Triple Crown of non-dog pets Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined once again by Andrew Skurka. In his fourth appearance on the show, we cover some uncharted territory here, including an overview of a guided trip from last year that went less than according to plan, how to best scout the weather for where you're backpacking (and why relying on trip reports can be a mistake), his thoughts on the Durston X-Mid, how someone who lives in the flatlands should train for a backpacking trip out west, why he was able to PR his marathon time in his early 40s (which is a handful of years past the traditional running prime) and why he's gifting Juliana a trash bag. We also go into why Andrew got into hunting, what tips he has for new hunters, gear advice, and why he butchers his own meat. Skurka's episodes are always full of practical advice for the backcountry and this one is certainly no exception. We wrap the show with the top footwear from the Appalachian Trail in 2022, the triple crown of gaming consoles, and the most exciting thing we've learned in the new year. Good To-Go: Use code “TREK25” for 25% off at goodto-go.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Andrew Skurka Skurka's Instagram Skurka's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:05:25 - QOTD: What’s the most exciting thing you’ve learned in the new year? 00:10:49 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon! Badger Sponsorship goes live January 30! 00:13:20 - Introducing Andrew 00:14:27 - What have you been up to since you were last on the show? 00:15:05 - Discussion about marathons and athleticism 00:17:52 - Discussion about shoe technology, shoes for hiking vs. running, and shoe life length 00:23:18 - Will you be going for another personal record? 00:24:12 - Have you sustained any major injuries related to running? 00:24:50 - What’s your exercise routine? 00:25:37 - Tell us about the guiding year you had. 00:29:46 - How did you pick the ideal location within Olympic National Park? 00:32:13 - What portion of the trips were off trail? 00:33:15 - Discussion about group dynamics and reactions to non-optimal trip conditions 00:36:00 - What went well on the trips to the Olympics? 00:36:55 - Will you modify fitness expectations for 2023 trips? 00:39:25 - Any other lessons from the 2022 session? 00:40:22 - Discussion about Skurka’s guides 00:41:55 - What components go into a “good” guiding service? 00:43:11 - What is your minimum threshold for new guide hires? 00:47:25 - Were there any standout new hires from this year? 00:50:27 - Do you find it challenging to get on trail for personal reasons? 00:53:04 - What do you see being more realistic moving forward: hiring out the administrative side or the in-person guiding side? 00:55:43 - How do you recommend getting backcountry weather forecasts? 00:59:53 - What do you think about the iPhone satellite SOS communication feature? 01:03:31 - Did anything else come out over this year that you’re really excited about? 01:06:00 - Did you change any of your gear this year? 01:07:20 - Discussion about the Durston X-Mid 01:09:00 - Discussion about DCF and gear improvements 01:12:44 - Discussion about the lifespan and waterproofing of tents 01:16:00 - What’s the most underdeveloped piece of gear that cottage companies are missing? 01:19:05 - What are your training tips for people living in low-elevation, flat areas? 01:23:18 - Backpack rain cover or no cover? 01:27:00 - Zach & Chaunce’s gear over time 01:27:44 - How many bear vaults can a ULA Catalyst fit? 01:28:38 - What was your interest for getting into hunting? 01:29:45 - Discussion of elk versus mule deer and meat amounts 01:30:48 - Have you gotten pushback on hunting from your followers? 01:32:47 - Discussion about elk herd management in Colorado 01:35:35 - Discussion about butchering and processing the elk meat 01:37:43 - Is there a leave no trace element of hunting? 01:40:10 - How did you learn what to do? 01:46:40 - What are the chances of there being a Skurka guided hunting trip in the future? 01:48:40 - Do you have any resources to recommend? 01:50:04 - Have you had any funny encounters with animals while hunting? 01:52:14 - What fabrics are ideal for being quiet and invisible while hunting? 01:53:00 - What lessons have you learned since beginning hunting? 01:54:44 - Do people hunt mountain goats or big horned sheep? 01:55:50 - What do you want people to know about the 2023 guiding season? 01:56:42 - Tell us about your scholarship program. SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The Top Footwear on the Appalachian Trail: 2022 Thru-Hiker Survey by Kate Richard Triple Crown of gaming consoles Pupdate Mail Bag Use code ‘BACKPACKER RADIO’ for 15% off Kevin Conley’s book! 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Mackenzie Fresquez. Today's interview focuses on neurodivergence in the outdoors, as Mackenzie has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. We get Mackenzie's experience with how this has interfaced with her long-distance backpacking trips- including a NOBO LASH on the PCT in 2021, what unique challenges someone with ADS faces in the context of a large on-trail community, and what advice she has to offer others with ASD who aspire to get into backpacking. We wrap the show with a packed array of segments, including some tips for UL backpacking with a baby, the triple crown of best drunks, a couple of very juicy stupidest things of the week, a new cinnamon court submission, and more! Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com. Casio: Shop at casio.com/us/watches.  Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. [divider] Interview with Mackenzie Fresquez Mackenzie's Instagram Embrace Autism - Assessments Time stamps & Questions 00:04:26 - QOTD: How long are dog’s memories? 00:11:32 - Reminders: Monthly Patreon Q&A episodes! Become a Patreon supporter! 00:14:44 - Introducing Mackenzie 00:15:19 - Tell us some nature trivia! 00:17:28 - Give us your backpacking resume. 00:19:33 - What made you want to start the PCT after leaving the CT? 00:20:20 - Introduce us to the topic of neurodivergence. 00:21:19 - Why do you think there is a lot of attention about neurodivergence content on social media right now? 00:22:10 - What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? 00:25:45 - What made you go from masking your symptoms to seeking a diagnosis? 00:28:00 - Discussion about insurance coverage for autism assessments 00:29:10 - What was the tipping point to answers and how has the diagnosis helped? 00:31:12 - Do you consider your diagnosis a benefit or hindrance for backpacking? 00:35:30 - What do you know now that you wish you’d known before starting your hikes? 00:36:36 - Discussion about social situations on trail 00:40:02 - DId your symptoms manifest in any additional ways? 00:41:36 - What separates general social anxiety from ASD? 00:42:15 - How did you prepare for the PCT? 00:44:56 - Will you prepare for future backpacking trips differently? 00:45:52 - Which backpacking routine is your favorite? 00:46:36 - Do you have a superpower? 00:47:40 - How was the response to your facebook posts? 00:51:00 - Discussion about self-diagnosis versus clinician diagnosis 00:52:33 - Why is being able to label something important? 00:53:55 - What was the negative bi-product of faking extraversion? 00:54:40 - What else do you recommend for someone considering their symptoms? 00:56:33 - Why are GI issues common in people with ASD? 00:58:22 - Discussion about “curing” autism 01:00:35 - Did you have a lot of social discomfort on the PCT? 01:02:05 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Stupid Thing of the Week Trek Propaganda Ultralight Backpacking With a Baby by Sunney Mahalak Mom Gross or Not Gross Cinnamon Court Triple Crown of best drunks Mail Bag 5 Star Review Listener Voicemail [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

This is a sneak peak into a new monthly Q&A episode we'll be running, available exclusively on Patreon. You can get a taste for what these episodes might look like moving forward, or if you want to get in on the fun now, head on over to patreon.com/backpackerradio.  You can get access to these shows for as little as $5 per month. This one covers Chaunce and Badger's thoughts on cooking in your tent vestibule, the pros and cons of sharing your thru-hike on social media, comparing the Timberline Trail vs. the Tahoe Rim Trail, whether the ATC should recognize 2020 Appalachian Trail thru-hikes, integrating into the hiking world, and more.  Become a Backpacker Radio Patreon supporter!  We are nothing without our wonderful listeners and supporters. Your financial support enables us to improve the audio quality of the show (equipment is expensive!), travel to interview guests, and encourages us to continue recording new episodes! Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.  

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Ethan Greene, who is the Director at the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. We of course dive deep on everything related to snow safety in the backcountry including some basic tips people need to be safe during avalanche season, the most common mistakes people make in the backcountry related to avalanche safety, what to do if you're caught in an avalanche, and much more. We wrap the show with a new backcountry meal critic (mac and cheese edition!), we go over some of the details from the first article from our 2022 AT thru-hiker survey, we do a triple crown of our top backpacking predictions for the new year, a glorious listener poop story, and more. Casio: Shop at casio.com/us/watches. Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “TREKPOD10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Ethan Greene Colorado Avalanche Information Center AVALANCHE.ORG Time stamps & Questions 00:04:51 - QOTD: What hopes do you have for 2023? 00:10:57 - Reminder 1: Subscribe to the Trek’s newsletter to stay tuned for the Badger sponsorship 00:11:47 - Reminder 2 & 3: Apply to blog for the Trek and shop our shorts! 00:12:36 - Introducing Ethan  00:13:20 - Tell us about your background in outdoor sports 00:14:01 - Have you always had a fascination with snow in particular? 00:15:47 - Can you tell us about ski joring in Leadville? 00:17:28 - Have you lived in the Rockies your entire life? 00:19:00 - How do you go from knowing you like snow to getting a doctorate in snow? 00:22:08 - Is there a rough estimate of how many people in the world have PhDs in snow? 00:23:33 - How have winters in the Rockies changed over the past 30 or 50 years? 00:24:54 - When are avalanches at the greatest risk for happening? 00:25:52 - If you’re a backpacker, what are the safety basics of avalanches? 00:29:37 - What is the data about who gets trapped by avalanches? 00:31:08 - What resources do you recommend people look at? 00:33:10 - True or false: if you’re covered by snow, spit to see which way is up 00:35:03 - What steps should you take if you’re in an avalanche? 00:37:45 - Describe what movement through the snow is best 00:39:38 - Is a certain type of activity more likely to trigger an avalanche than others? 00:43:30 - What are some standout moments from your childhood or career? 00:45:28 - Have you ever been in an avalanche? 00:48:55 - Are there any myths about avalanches that aren’t accurate? 00:49:37 - How common are avalanches that haven’t been forecasted? 00:50:45 - What area is notorious for frequent avalanches? 00:53:12 - Do the icier conditions in New England change the avalanche likelihood? 00:54:12 - Does the direction of the mountain face impact the avalanche likelihood? 00:56:07 - Can you talk at all about dangerous snow features like cornices and crevasses? 00:58:37 - What conditions made 2019 such a big avalanche year? 01:01:15 - What kind of manpower goes into cleaning up avalanche debris? 01:04:04 - Should we consider avalanches when skiing and snowboarding at big resorts? 01:05:29 - If someone is interested in getting into the avalanche field, what’s a good path for them? 01:08:48 - Do you feel a profound sense of boredom in the summer? 01:10:29 - What is some avalanche lingo the commoner wouldn’t understand? 01:12:02 - Is there any question we didn’t ask that we should have? SEGMENTS Backcountry Meal Critics: Backpacker’s Pantry Trek Propaganda The 2022 AT Thru-Hiker Survey: General Information by Kate Richard Mail Bag Triple Crown of predictions for 2023 5 Star Reviews [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined yet again by our resident yeti, Jabba aka The Real Hiking Viking aka The Hiking Viking Liking Biking. Jabba gives us the full rundown on his recent 5,000 mile bikepacking trip on the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route and The Western Wildlands Route. We learn how this journey came to form due to a pair of injuries early on in the year, how bikepacking compares to thru-hiking in Jabba's eyes, legs, and heart, the biggest pros and cons of bikepacking vs. thru-hiking, a story of how Tom bunked up with a 73 year old thru-hiker for a few nights, and much more. This goes without saying anytime Jabba is on the show, but this one is wild, and doubly so today as the team was fighting a round of nasty hangovers inspired by Palooza weekend. We wrap the show with a triple crown of the worst jobs to be hungover for, we pin Mara vs. Rachel in a new game show to test their knowledge of Backpacker Radio history, people chug raw eggs, and more. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Casio: Shop at casio.com/us/watches. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ULTRALIGHT10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Jabba, the Real Hiking Viking Jabba's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:19 - QOTD: Did you lose any bets recently? 00:12:37 - QOTD 2: Did you have a designated popcorn/vomit bowl? 00:15:45 - Introducing Jabba, kind of 00:16:42 - Tell us about how you started your adventures in 2022. 00:18:29 - What was your injury at the start of the CDT? 00:19:18 - Jabba’s motel room bunkmate 00:24:04 - Was biking originally part of the plan? 00:27:57 - Where was the fun part of bike packing? 00:28:43 - What are your personal pros and cons of bike packing? 00:32:24 - Tell us about your bike and fixing equipment. 00:36:15 - Can you describe what a tubeless tire is? 00:38:36 - Story about the first two days of biking 00:41:19 - Would you describe your brand partnerships as a net negative or positive? 00:44:50 - Discussion about biking technique 00:47:35 - Discussion about overuse injuries and healing 00:49:35 - Do you have future hiking plans? 00:53:28 - Tell us about your Patagonia trip in 2023. 00:56:50 - Biking vs hiking: big mile days 01:00:45 - Discussion about making biking comfortable 01:05:15 - Quadzilla’s quads 01:05:57 - What did you add or upgrade during the trip for comfort or hygiene? 01:09:01 - Story about Eureka 01:12:09 - Tell us about the 9 day stretch when you weren’t alone. 01:15:38 - Biking vs hiking: being solo or with others 01:17:15 - Describe the Western Wildlands Route 01:23:29 - Did you veer off the route? 01:25:20 - Any other standout days or moments? 01:29:30 - Biking vs hiking: adrenaline rushes 01:32:38 - Biking vs hiking: budget and costs 01:34:31 - Fuck Marry Kill: thru-hiking, bike packing, college football 01:36:58 - What was your worst injury from the trip? 01:41:00 - Did you wear clip in shoes? 01:43:47 - Would you recommend thru-hiking or bikepacking to someone more? SEGMENTS Triple Crown of worst jobs to show up to hungover Trivia: Mara vs. Rachel Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Joshua and Amber Niven. Joshua and Amber are the co-authors of "Discovering the Appalachian Trail: A Guide to the Trail’s Greatest Hikes." Appropriately, we chat all about the AT including some fun historical facts, their favorite day hikes, the most underrated spots on the trail, the hardest hikes on the trail, and much more. We wrap the show with a triple crown of things we're NOT looking forward to this holiday season, a preview of some QA episodes we're putting together, 10 things someone ought to know before hiking the CDT, and more! RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ULTRALIGHT10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Amber & Joshua Niven Amber's AT Day Hikes Trek Post Amber's Website Joshua's Website Discovering the AT Book Website Get the book at REI Asheville Fine Art Printing Time stamps & Questions 00:04:58 - QOTD: What things baffle you about the opposite sex? 00:16:27 - Reminders: Patreon Q&A video episodes will be coming out in 2023 00:17:37 - Introducing Amber & Joshua Niven  00:18:20 - How long was Joshua in Germany? 00:19:40 - When did Zach and Joshua first meet? 00:20:19 - How did Amber and Joshua meet? 00:22:26 - Tell us about the printing shed and business. 00:24:19 - What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever printed? 00:25:37 - Where in the journey did hiking the AT happen? 00:28:20 - Was it hard to get off trail? 00:30:30 - Tell us about your old log cabin and building a new one. 00:33:02 - Discussion about kids and parenting 00:35:36 - What is The Thru Project? 00:38:14 - Discussion about how the Thru Project transformed into the book 00:40:46 - What are some wheelchair accessible hikes along the AT? 00:43:50 - Joshua’s ‘what not to do on trail’ story 00:48:20 - Did you two ever butt heads in the process of writing the book? 00:50:10 - What would you say is the most underrated day hike along the AT? 00:55:35 - Give us a second underrated day hike! 00:57:26 - What do you mean by secret camping? 00:59:40 - What are some really difficult day hikes? 01:03:43 - What are some easier day hikes? 01:04:55 - What’s a good hike for stargazing? 01:07:07 - Tell us some interesting history facts about the AT. 01:11:55 - How much did you travel to write the book? 01:14:00 - Legend about Frog Town 01:14:52 - Discussion about hiking with kids 01:17:40 - Are you still able to appreciate nature while hiking with kids? 01:19:32 - Fuck Marry Kill: McAfee Knob, Dragon’s Tooth, and Grayson Highlands 01:21:00 - Discussion about the trail in Virginia 01:22:56 - The history of Tinker Cliffs 01:23:43 - Fuck Marry Kill: New Jersey, Vermont, and Pennsylvania 01:29:00 - Duncannon stories 01:33:41 - What camera setup are you using? 01:35:50 - What are your best photography tips for thru-hikers? 01:39:23 - Do you still do your own photography? 01:40:32 - What are your favorite yoga poses and breathing techniques for hikers? 01:44:10 - Where can people get the book and follow you? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Stupid Thing of the Week Trek Propaganda 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Hiking the CDT by Jenn Wall Triple Crown of things we’re NOT looking forward to this holiday season Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Greg Mac, Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, Kristina Diaz, and Dayne. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Niki Choo. Niki, alongside her partner, recently completed an expedition across Canada from ocean to ocean (Pacific Ocean in Alaska to the Arctic circle) via canoe. We learn quite a bit about what goes into this style of adventure, as this is our first interview foray into extended paddle adventures, including the challenges of canoeing upstream, through waterways with limited and sometimes inaccurate intel, doing so in such remote country, and much more. Whether you're interested in paddle adventure sports or not, we think you'll get a kick out of Niki's insane stories from this adventure. We wrap the show with a preview of the 2023 Badger Sponsorship, a triple crown of hikes not on our bucket list, we have a couple of listener voicemails, including a Chaunce pat on the back for her improved comfort with poop talk, and more! RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Good To-Go: Use code “BF30” for 30% off at goodto-go.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ULTRALIGHT10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com. [divider] Interview with Niki Choo Niki's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:45 - QOTD: Do you feel like you’re doing something incredibly naughty when you venture into the bakery section of the grocery store? 00:10:01 - Reminders: Badger Sponsorship launches on January 30, 2023 - subscribe to our newsletter! 00:11:12 - Introducing Niki 00:11:49 - How does someone get into whitewater kayaking at 14 years old? 00:13:38 - Tell us more about your background growing up. 00:15:50 - What makes Whistler such a special destination? 00:17:50 - Give us the basic plan of your trip and discussion about leaving Niki’s dog behind. 00:22:17 - How did you move if you didn’t ski? 00:23:42 - What were the weather windows and the mileage you did?  00:25:20 - Were you the first ones to do this trip? 00:27:48 - What was the inspiration for the trip? 00:30:25 - Did you have experience doing pioneering trips like this before? 00:31:42 - Discussion about the length of days in the Arctic and sleeping in the light 00:33:30 - Discussion about wildlife 00:36:00 - Tell us about your gear and canoe modifications. 00:39:38 - What would you do if your canoe breaks? 00:42:53 - How did you go about finding emergency contacts in small towns? 00:45:35 - What is the culture like where you were? 00:51:37 - Tell us about the upstream section and returning to Dawson. 00:56:16 - What were some of the high consequence moves you had to make? 01:05:46 - How do you portage a 1,000 pound boat? 01:07:45 - Discussion about muskeg 01:10:24 - How did you ultimately get out of that situation? 01:11:22 - What did the route look like from there forward? 01:12:40 - Discussion about upstream paddling 01:17:50 - What did your diet look like on this adventure? 01:20:37 - What were some of your treat-yourself meals? 01:22:30 - Did you send a lump of coal to the person who gave you bad beta? 01:23:56 - Tell us about the scariest night of the trip. 01:33:04 - How well did you sleep that night? 01:35:17 - What were the redeeming qualities of the trip? 01:38:54 - How did your relationship fare during the stressful parts of the trip? 01:41:40 - The proposal story! 01:44:55 - Tell us about your startup. 01:47:48 - Do you have any ambitions to bring it back sometime in the future? 01:49:28 - Tell us about pingos and the effects of climate change you saw on your trip. 01:51:07 - Discussion about human behavior and helping the environment 01:54:17 - Any parting words? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Stupid Thing of the Week Trek Propaganda 10 Reasons why the AT is Better than the PCT by Eloise Robbins Triple Crown of hikes NOT on our bucket list Listener Voicemails (and leave us your own!) Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Leonard Adkins.  Leonard is a backpacking legend and author of more than twenty books, including several guide books, a book about the flora, fauna, and geology on the the Appalachian Trail, and his most title, "All About the Appalachian Trail" the first and only book for children grades 4-8.  We go in depth on Leonard's backpacking history, which includes more than 20,000 miles dating back to the early 80s.  We learn what it was like to be one of the first to hike the Pacific Northwest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and the first (alongside his wife) to hike the Allegheny Trail.  We learn some fun facts about the plants along the AT.  And we get the ultimate endorsement for this interview from Leonard himself, who says, "I enjoyed that more than I was expecting.”  We were flattered. We wrap the show with the worst all-time Christmas songs, the triple crown of baked goods, a new stupid thing of the week, and more. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ULTRALIGHT10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Leonard Adkins Leonard's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:05:15 - QOTD: What is the all-time worst Christmas song? 00:13:52 - Reminders: Hiker Meetup, Saturday December 10! 00:17:08 - Reminders: apply to blog in 2023, shop the Trek’s new shorts and hats! 00:18:34 - Introducing Leonard 00:19:19 - What’s your origin story? 00:22:56 - How popular was the trail in 1980? 00:26:18 - How was the trail or route different in 1980? 00:29:14 - Did you hike the trail to research for your books or did your books result from hiking? 00:31:55 - How much time did you spend on your first book? 00:33:33 - Tell us more about hiking the AT in 1980. 00:37:50 - If you could backpack the AT today or in the 80’s again, which would you pick? 00:40:11 - Do you remember your original backpacking gear? 00:44:29 - Tell us about the Allegheny Trail. 00:50:42 - How long do you think it would take the average thru-hiker to complete? 00:54:30 - What was the Pacific Northwest Trail like in 1983? 00:57:54 - How did you know about these trails to hike them before they were completed? 01:00:22 - How did you plan your hikes without guide books or maps? 01:03:30 - Discussion about hiking the Continental Divide Trail in 1987 01:05:26 - How many maps did you carry on the CDT and how did you get them? 01:07:37 - What does your navigation setup look like today? 01:10:05 - What shorter trail stands out from the ones we haven’t talked about yet? 01:11:54 - Would you describe your hiking experience as Type I or Type II fun? 01:12:50 - What was your most challenging day of backpacking? 01:14:58 - What percent of your time is spent hiking, researching, and writing books? 01:16:21 - If you could hike one of your international trails again, which would it be? 01:21:39 - Did you re-hike sections of the trail to write your books? 01:25:37 - What’s your favorite story about nature that’s in your books? 01:27:44 - What’s your favorite story about the animals you researched? 01:29:43 - Tell us more about your educational and professional background. 01:32:08 - What are the best overnight hikes on the AT? 01:34:06 - Are the ponies in Grayson Highlands wild or feral? 01:35:41 - Tell us about your wife getting struck by lightning. 01:40:14 - Was the pain localized to her foot? 01:42:00 - Laurie’s perspective on the story 01:42:55 - What was the inspiration for writing a book for kids? 01:45:42 - What feedback have you gotten on the book? 01:47:50 - Do you have a larger mission for writing books? 01:48:53 - Where can people follow you and get your books? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda 5 Stupid Light Gear Choices That Take Ultralight Too Far by Alex Brown aka GPS Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of baked goods Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by our long lost former intern turned Production Assistant who ABANDONED the podcast to go for a silly little hike, called thru-hiking the CDT, Elise "SOS" Ott alongside her fiancé, Josh "Kid" Gribble.  This is a Sunday morning interview, which of course means mimosas are involved, setting the mood perfectly to learn all about Elise and Josh's adventures on the CDT. We chat in depth about their epic proposal (spoiler alert), the highs and lows of their trek, we get a thorough primer of fly fishing, especially in the context of backpacking, and much more. It goes without saying, but this is a fun conversation amongst pals and if you disagree you are wrong. We wrap the show with a triple crown of spices, our top food buzzwords, and some details of the Holiday Hiker Meetup Extravaganza that we're hosting on December 10th in Golden (head to our Instagram to get the full deets). RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “trekit20” for a 2 day head start to 20% off and free shipping on November 3 and November 17 at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “takelesstrekmore” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Elise & Josh Elise's Instagram Elise's Youtube Josh's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:24 - QOTD: What are your food buzzwords? 00:14:28 - Reminders: Hiker Meetup, Saturday December 10! 00:15:34 - More Reminders: Badger Sponsorship launching in January - sign up for The Trek’s newsletter! 00:16:20 - Introducing Elise & Josh 00:17:08 - The engagement story 00:19:00 - The engagement story actually starts 00:31:16 - How did Josh get the ring size? 00:33:02 - Discussion about trail runners 00:35:22 - Who’s taking whose last name? 00:37:20 - What is Zach’s wedding advice? 00:40:14 - What are your honeymoon ideas? 00:43:37 - Elise’s trail resume & BPR resume 00:46:41 - Josh’s trail resume 00:47:35 - Josh’s trail name story 00:51:44 - Tell us about fly-fishing on the CDT. 00:55:28 - What are the appropriate questions to ask people who fish? 00:58:27 - Tell us about the rod you used. 00:59:21 - Tell us about backcountry fishing gear. 01:02:09 - What’s the difference between fly fishing and regular fishing? 01:07:50 - Floating versus sinking bait 01:10:01 - What’s the appeal of fishing? 01:13:25 - Are there certain fish that are notorious? 01:15:44 - Do you have any universal backcountry fishing truths? 01:16:44 - Tell us about bait and flies. 01:21:40 - How do you gut and cook a fish in the backcountry? 01:28:03 - Do different types of trout taste different? 01:30:12 - Tell us about the fires in New Mexico. 01:44:42 - Tell us about the National Forest fire closure and getting to Colorado. 01:47:50 - Tell us about hiking through the snow in the San Juans. 01:55:12 - Did you ever consider skipping the snow section? 01:57:02 - Did you seriously consider quitting the trail? 01:58:33 - Discussion about cow/grizzly closure in Glacier 01:59:20 - Quadzilla’s quads 02:00:46 - Discussion about grizzlies on the CDT 02:07:43 - What thoughts about gear did you take away from the trail? 02:14:19 - How does the CDT compare to the PCT and AT? 02:15:49 - Josh, what are the best and worst things about hiking with Elise? 02:17:45 - Elise, what are the best and worst things about hiking with Josh? 02:19:30 - Can you give us some impromptu trail related vows? 02:20:49 - How did your pre-trail anxieties live up to your expectations? SEGMENTS Triple Crown of spices 5 Star Reviews [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Kevin Conley. Kevin is a thru-hiker, wildland firefighter, and the author of Above the Ashes, a memoir about battling mental illness during a 3,500 mile bike ride from California to Florida with his dog. Kevin shares the history of his troubled upbringing- and how this eventually lead to his discovering the Appalachian Trail, and consequently his infatuation with thru-hiking. Kevin goes in-depth about the life of a wildland firefighter, how his crippling panic attacks nearly lead to his demise, and his spirit of giving back and bettering the community around him. This is a really deep, honest, and at times dark conversation- and we'd like to offer a trigger warning to listeners that the following interview touches on talks of suicide. We wrap the show with a chat about whether rain pants are necessary for backpacking, the triple crown of fast food breakfasts, if weekend warriors are allowed to use limited AT campsites, an update from MG, and more. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “trekit20” for a 2 day head start to 20% off and free shipping on November 3 and November 17 at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “takelesstrekmore” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Kevin Conley Kevin's Website Kevin's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:18 - QOTD: Would you rather live in the Avatar, Jurassic Park, or Avengers universes? 00:07:20 - Reminders: Hiker Meetup, Saturday December 10! 00:07:53 - Introducing Kevin 00:09:09 - Tell us about your origin story and first thru-hike. 00:14:58 - What about wilderness therapy didn’t work for you?  00:17:56 - How did you go from that experience to the AT? 00:19:27 - What sort of trouble did you get into as a kid? 00:20:30 - Discussion about high school background 00:22:46 - Walk us through the early days of starting on the AT. 00:25:10 - Tell us your trail name origin story. 00:27:15 - When did you feel like you hit your groove on the AT? 00:28:17 - Did you ever think you may not finish the trail? 00:28:55 - Tell us about getting bit by a black widow. 00:30:40 - Tell us about fracturing your foot twice. 00:32:08 - Tell us about getting and treating Lyme disease. 00:37:05 - At what point during the hike did you know you would hike another trail? 00:41:34 - Do you feel like the hike helped you process your grandfather’s death? 00:44:37 - Tell us about starting the PCT. 00:46:32 - Do you feel like you processed your grandmother’s death better due to spending more quality time with her? 00:48:08 - How was the PCT experience different from the AT? 00:50:05 - Tell us your PCT love story. 00:51:25 - Why didn’t your relationship continue? 00:53:54 - Discussion about Burgers and Love 00:55:10 - Were the burgers the start of your charitable endeavors? 00:57:17 - How much money have you raised on your hikes and bike tours? 00:58:18 - Give us more of the background on Backcountry Ninjas. 01:02:07 - Talk us through the evolution of your relationships with your parents. 01:03:53 - Tell us about hiking the John Muir Trail four times. 01:05:52 - How did you meet Hawaii? 01:07:01 - Tell us about how you got started bike touring. 01:10:42 - If you had to pick bike touring or hiking from now on, which would you pick? 01:12:28 - Why did you bike south from Canada? 01:13:12 - How did you get into firefighting? 01:16:17 - What do you have to do to get the job or during training? 01:18:20 - Do a lot of people back out once they get onto a Hotshot crew? 01:20:09 - How does the toughest day of firefighting compare to the toughest day of thru-hiking? 01:22:09 - What other days have stood out to you from firefighting? 01:27:07 - How do you go back to doing your job after a near death experience? 01:29:05 - Did you follow a specific training program or did you have to pass a test to join? 01:31:57 - Zach & Chaunce kill time 01:33:39 - What firefighting tasks did you favor? 01:39:51 - Can you say “I’m a Hotshot burn boss taking care of a dinner plate”? 01:41:10 - Tell us about the mental illness you were dealing with before your bike trip. 01:47:00 - *Begin trigger warning* 01:54:30 - *End trigger warning* 01:55:30 - Story about the man in the well 01:56:30 - Discussion about the bike trip. 01:59:57 - Was there a trigger to the panic attacks? 02:04:10 - What do you see as your path out of the panic attacks? 02:08:54 - Bison facts and gratitude 02:13:33 - Can you speak to changes you’ve seen in firefighters talking about mental health? 02:16:00 - *Begin trigger warning* 02:20:19 - *End trigger warning* 02:20:19 - Did you ever tell your dad about hearing his voice? 02:22:07 - Tell us about the book, Above the Ashes. 02:24:42 - Any other parting messages you want to share? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda Do You Really Need Rain Pants for Backpacking? by Rachel Shoemaker I’ve Thru-Hiked Over 8,700 Miles. This Is the Gear I Brought on My 99-Day CDT Thru-Hike by Joseph Gonzalez Triple Crown of fast food breakfasts Backcountry Meal Critics: Heather’s Choice Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @headnodculture. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by friend of the podcast, renaissance woman, and Executive Director of the Continental Divide Trail Coalition, Teresa Martinez. Teresa feeds us prickly pear margaritas and shares some of the key achievements of the CDT since our last chat, including the recent National Monument designation of Camp Hale in which she got to meet President Biden. We get the full story of her interaction with the POTUS, including some well-earned water works, she reflects on what work has gone into growing the CDTC into thriving organization that it is today, what challenges and opportunities lie ahead, the process of turning trail towns into gateway communities, how climate change is impacting the thru-hikability of the trail, and much more. Teresa is the best and this conversation offers a very clear reminder of why this is true. We wrap the show with some new segments! We introduce backcountry meal critics, where Chaunce and I sample new dehydrated meals and offer our reviews. We also introduce "Stupid Thing of the Week", which likely needs no explanation. We check in with some former guests of the podcast. And we get another update from MG! RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Good To-Go: Use code “BF30” for 30% off at goodto-go.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “trekit20” for a 2 day head start to 20% off and free shipping on November 3 and November 17 at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “takelesstrekmore” for 15% off at gossamergear.com. [divider] Interview with Teresa Martinez CDTC Website Time stamps & Questions 00:05:04 - QOTD: How was Mexico? 00:12:53 - Reminders: apply to blog for the Trek, check out our new stretch shorts, apply to be the Trek’s Youtube personality, Hiker Trash Meetup December 10! 00:17:53 - Introducing Teresa 00:22:38 - What does the 10 year anniversary of the CDTC feel like? 00:24:31 - Tell us about meeting the President. 00:29:39 - How have your fears for the organization changed? 00:25:47 - What are some of the things you’re doing that could be considered risky? 00:39:48 - Are there certain organizations you’re modeling the CDTC after? 00:44:11 - What elements of your ATC work did you bring to the CDTC versus improve upon? 00:52:31 - Tell us about the Camp Hale designation. 00:59:00 - What are the primary benefits of it becoming a National Monument? 01:04:29 - What would you consider some of the other major accomplishments of the CDTC? 01:08:19 - Do CDT purists get mad when signs are added? 01:13:40 - What’s your take on mapping and navigation? 01:18:28 - How did the Imbibe the Divide events go? 01:20:23 - What is your favorite pie flavor in Pie Town? 01:24:45 - How much of building a trail community happens organically versus planned? 01:29:47 - Is community fostering getting easier with people migrating into the mountain west? 01:34:48 - How has the percentage of completed trail increased since we last spoke? 01:38:09 - What does it take to galvanize communities to maintain remote sections of the trail? 01:41:55 - Tell us about the 10 for 10 Themes and October’s theme of hunting. 01:46:20 - Tell us about climate change impacts to the CDT. 01:49:00 - What’s your take on the future of thru-hiking? 01:52:45 - Tell us about the floods. 01:56:02 - Does water used to put out a fire ever cause flooding? 01:57:17 - Fuck Marry Kill: snow, fire, flood 01:58:33 - If we wanted to open a hiker hostel for CDT hikers in Colorado, what areas or towns would you recommend? 02:00:11 - Would the CDTC consider making a “trail alert” social media page for current trail status? 02:01:30 - Is it better to NOBO or SOBO? 02:02:25 - Does the CDTC have any professional full time trail crews? 02:03:33 - Any parting messages? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Backcountry Meal Critics: Packit Gourmet Trek Propaganda Tips for Flying With Your Backpack from A Flight Attendant by Sarah Lesiecki Stupid Thing of the Week Previous Guest Voicemails (leave us a voicemail!) Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @headnodculture. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Nick Van Buer. Nick is an associate professor specializing in hard-rock geology at Cal Poly Pomona and recently completed a 530-mile hike across the Mojave Desert on what he’s dubbed as the Mojave Wilderness Route. We obviously nerd out on rocks, learn more about the history and science of geology at large, and talk in depth about Nick's trek across the most remote parts of the Mojave Desert. We wrap the show with a triple crown of non alcoholic drinks, we are blessed with a wonderful listener poop story via voice mail, and discuss the appropriate time to start and stop sending nudes. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “trekit20” for a 2 day head start to 20% off and free shipping on November 3 and November 17 at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “takelesstrekmore” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Nick Van Buer Nick's Website: Across the Mojave Nick's Youtube series LA Times Article about Nick Time stamps & Questions 00:05:05 - QOTD: At what point in a relationship do you start and stop sending nudes? 00:15:49 - Reminders: Apply to blog or video-blog for the Trek! And check out our new shorts. 00:17:37 - Introducing Nick 00:18:45 - What got you interested in geology? 00:20:51 - Give us a taste of the professor life. 00:23:14 - How do you grind up a rock and find out how old it is? 00:25:38 - Do your students want to take geology? 00:27:20 - What are the most common geology careers? 00:28:37 - Did you use your geology skills during your hike? 00:29:37 - What are the best excuses you’ve gotten for people not coming to class or turning work in late? 00:31:20 - Can you teach us the basics of your research focus? 00:35:07 - Given your knowledge, on a scale of 1 to 10, what is your earthquake fear level? 00:38:33 - What was the process to get your sabbatical approved? 00:40:00 - Can you paint us a picture of the history of the Mojave Desert? 00:41:42 - Did you have a wishlist of things you were hoping to find during your hike? 00:43:41 - Did you develop the route? 00:45:44 - How long were your water carries and how did you carry it? 00:47:52 - Tell us about the weather you experienced. 00:48:38 - How did you know you’d be able to find water? 00:50:55 - Tell us about hiking through wilderness areas or passing notable interest points? 00:52:39 - Tell us about your previous backpacking experience. 00:55:07 - Were you nervous going into this hike? 00:56:33 - What kind of wildlife did you see? 00:57:35 - Describe to Zach what a geological map looks like. 01:00:40 - Is there one standout rock encounter? 01:03:15 - How often are there large paradigm shifts in geology? 01:04:57 - Was there anything in this hike that surprised you? 01:08:29 - Do you have any hot takes about currently accepted geological ideas? 01:10:39 - What’s the process for proving your theory? 01:13:22 - Tell us about the peer review process. 01:14:43 - Have you witnessed a lot of politicking within geology? 01:15:40 - Are there any fun geological facts you can relay to PCT hikers? 01:16:43 - How do you decide to take rocks from the field? 01:20:00 - What part of you just loves the desert, and what part of this is just public service? 01:20:56 - Tell us about swimming across the Colorado River. 01:25:50 - Tell us about the Youtube series that you made. 01:27:39 - Were there any standout stories you got more feedback on? 01:30:20 - How much weight in samples did you take? 01:31:54 - If these people were rocks, what rocks would they be and why? 01:35:01 - Do you have any other backpacking routes you’d like to do? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda Modifying your Gear List for High Routes and Off Trail Hikes by GPS 9 AT Thru-Hikers Share Their Top Advice by Rachel Shoemaker Triple Crown of non-alcoholic drinks Listener Voicemails (leave us your own!) Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @headnodculture. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are answering your burning backpacking questions! Chaunce and I tackle a wide array of Backpacker Radio listener questions - everything from how we plan our nutrition for a backpacking trip, to how we deal with the fading of trail friends after a thru-hike, when and where we recommend using a bear canister and what our go-to bear prevention strategies are, what qualities you should look for in a tent if you're backpacking with your dog, what innovations we foresee happening in the world of backpacking, and much much more. We also catch up with Backpacker Radio team members Leah and Rachel on their recent backpacking trips of the Colorado Trail and the Four Pass Loop, respectively. Also, if you get far enough into the episode, you'll be blessed with a BIG SURPRISE. This is a marathon show fueled on beer, strap in. Gossamer Gear: Use code “backpackerradio” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “trekit20” for a 2 day head start to 20% off and free shipping on November 3 and November 17 at enlightenedequipment.com. Green Chef: Use code “backpacker599” for free shipping on your first $5.99 meal at greenchef.com/backpacker599. [divider] Drunk Q&A! Time stamps & Questions 00:04:50 - QOTD: How drunk are you? 00:06:24 - Reminders: Apply to join the Trek! 00:08:44 - What is the best beginner east coast trail and beginner west coast trail? @sduugs 00:15:37 - Have you made your own dehydrated meals? If so, which ones? 00:19:35 - What is the best trail for learning navigational skills and off-trail hiking? @tales_on_trail 00:24:25 - Do you have a favorite electrolyte powder? @jacob_neary_ 00:30:30 - Zach, tell us more about how you plan meals and caloric intake before a long hike? 00:33:28 - What do your meals look like for a typical day on trail?  00:43:43 - How do you cope with post-trail friendships fading? @imhikinghere 00:51:19 - Is it challenging to find full-time work with a thru-hiking gap on your resume? 00:59:18 - Is a bear bag or bear canister better? Pros and cons of each? @wyatthart_9b 01:06:24 - How do you hang an Ursack? 01:07:21 - Thoughts on the DIY ultralight community? Have you built anything for hiking in a DIY spirit? @balkenbrij_  01:12:18 - What tents are best when bringing a dog? @hunter_clark_4  01:23:40 - What will the next big leap forward in backpacking innovation/technology be? @jasonhikedsunedited  01:26:55 - Drone resupply in the backcountry: good or evil? @reedinthewind  01:29:39 - What do you look for when picking a spot to pitch a tent? @guerrero403  01:33:09 - What’s a reasonable water carry for the southern terminus of the CDT? I always bring too much. @bryce.294  01:37:10 - Can you talk about how different thru-hiking would be without trail magic or trail angels, specifically in reference to the AT? 01:46:30 - If you had to fuel your hike with PBR, how many miles per PBR would you average? Would it change once you blacked out? 01:55:15 - Triple Crown of hikers/previous podcast guests who you would want to be with you during a zombie apocalypse @trinitymarie.b  01:58:55 - While thru-hiking, what’s the craziest and most desperate fantasy you’ve had? @steven__cannon  02:01:49 - What is the most disgusting, hiker trash thing you’ve done on trail that would be totally unacceptable off trail? @chandlersam_ 02:06:24 - What is the weirdest/spookiest thing you’ve encountered hiking or backpacking at night? @jerry.ellsworth  02:17:35 - What’s your worst hiking fear? @staticmuscial 02:22:04 - Triple Crown of what you put in your fanny pack @riley.seeholzer 02:25:06 - Who is having the next kid, Zach or Chaunce? @jameswashburn 02:28:14 - What’s your tattoo? @mr_siewruk  02:28:37 - It’s okay to kind of hate hiking alone, right? @russelltee SEGMENTS Leah’s Colorado Trail Hike Rachel’s Four Pass Loop Hike [divider] Check out our sound guy @headnodculture. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Carl Stanfield aka "Professor". Professor is in the midst of attempting to hike the most known miles over the course of a single calendar year, including a calendar year triple crown. We of course dive deep into his journey including his Florida Trail hike in January, hiking through frigid temps on the AT, yet- how he's gotten incredibly lucky with weather throughout his trek at large, we learn how he's managed to prioritize the overall experience above making miles, the number of free beers he's accumulated over his many miles, and much more. And, because Professor is a major gear nerd, we dissect his pack, his apparel, and what changes he's made throughout the course of his journey. It was a ton of fun to have Carl in studio for this show, we hope you enjoy the chat as much as we did. We wrap the show with a triple crown of non R-rated insults, Chaunce has her mind exploded about the proper way to use coffee ice cubes, and we get yet another update from our intrepid adventurer MG. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “trekit20” for a 2 day head start to 20% off and free shipping on November 3 and November 17 at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “takelesstrekmore” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Carl “Professor” Stanfield Carl's Instagram  Time stamps & Questions 00:03:26 - QOTD: What’s the proper way to use coffee ice cubes? 00:08:43 - Reminders: Shop the Trek’s shorts, apply to join the Trek, and support us by subscribing wherever you listen! 00:10:57 - Introducing Professor 00:11:53 - How tired are you? 00:14:00 - Define your hiking goals for us. 00:17:03 - Did you expect to complete your goal at the beginning? 00:18:33 - Did you reach out to the Guinness Book of World Records? 00:20:10 - What was your backpacking background prior to this year? 00:23:19 - What did you go to school for and what jobs did you aim to get afterwards? 00:25:10 - Discussion about Carl’s gear reviews for the Trek 00:26:05 - Tell us about the Florida Trail! 00:31:44 - What kind of mileage did you do on your first thru-hikes? 00:33:25 - Tell us about spending half your AT nights indoors. 00:35:11 - Are you socially or physically tired when staying with strangers? 00:37:11 - Have you had to scale back on the social events to meet your mileage goals? 00:38:19 - Do you have a standout social experience that stands out? 00:42:49 - Discussion about intense emotions on trail 00:46:28 - Let’s talk about cold and snow on the AT! 00:49:22 - Why wasn’t the cold too bad for you? 00:51:09 - Why was the AT physically harder than you expected? 00:52:14 - What advice would you give to someone who wants a similar indoor experience? 00:56:20 - How did the AT wrap up? 00:59:47 - Was it stressful or nice to take time off? 01:02:09 - Were there other people around when you started the Sierras on the PCT? 01:03:54 - Was there a shock level being thrust into the Sierra landscape from the AT? 01:04:42 - How many fires did you encounter on the PCT? 01:06:59 - Did the social element from the AT maintain on the PCT? 01:08:10 - What kind of food were you craving for dinner or in town? 01:11:09 - How did you save up to do this hike? 01:12:42 - Discussion about Carl’s frugality. 01:15:01 - Discussion about experiences with people and Quadzilla’s Quads. 01:19:54 - What happened after the northern terminus of the PCT? 01:20:50 - Breakfast buffet benders 01:24:25 - Tell us about the CDT so far. 01:27:43 - What types of things are you tracking? 01:31:18 - Have you had any grizzly encounters? 01:31:59 - What else has happened on the CDT? 01:33:47 - What remains of your hike now? 01:37:52 - What’s the bigger goal: the calendar year triple crown or the mileage record? 01:38:34 - What qualifies as miles that count toward your goal? 01:40:28 - What are your big 3? 01:46:42 - Tell us about your footwear. 01:49:17 - Fuck Marry Kill: your gear 01:51:06 - Tell us about your shirt. 01:54:24 - What else is worth talking about in your gear? 01:57:18 - Any other gear you want to talk about? 01:58:47 - What have been the major takeaways of your journey so far? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda Carl “Professor” Stanfield on Attempting the Most Miles Ever Hiked in One Year by Penina Satlow How to Pick the Perfect Sun Hoodie for Your Next Hike by Eloise Robbins Triple Crown of non R-rated insults 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @headnodculture. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, Leah, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Minus33, we are joined by Sarah Dramis.  Sarah is a triple crowner turned ultrarunner, a fitness coach, former VIP travel family manager and nanny, and the survivor of a serious back injury resulting in several broken vertebrae.  We go deep on Sarah's backpacking career, including some of the standout highs and lows from each of her backpacking trips, we do a fuck marry kill on the triple crown trails, we learn about Sarah's passion for strength training and fitness in general, her failed attempt at the Colorado Trail FKT, and much more.   We wrap the show with a triple crown of rainy day activities, we hear from a fan of the show who was viciously lied to by Chaunce, and we chat about some of our favorite trail meals. Minus33: Use code “backpacker22” for 15% off at minus33.com. Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “takelesstrekmore” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Sarah Dramis Sarah's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:46 - QOTD: What is your favorite trail meal? 00:06:57 - Reminders: Support the PNTS at bellsbeer.com/trails, apply to join the Trek, and support us by subscribing wherever you listen! 00:09:17 - Introducing Sarah 00:09:57 - How’d you get your trail name? 00:10:30 - What’s the backpacking scene like in Hawaii? 00:11:50 - What put the PCT on your radar? 00:13:05 - Tell us about breaking your back. 00:16:36 - Discussion about the rod in Sarah’s back. 00:20:00 - How did the rod protect you when you got hit by a car? 00:22:06 - What was it like transitioning to long-distance hiking? 00:23:35 - How did you know how to train your body? 00:24:50 - How much was strength training a part of your routine before thru-hiking? 00:27:23 - How did thru-hiking change your wiring? 00:28:50 - Where does fearless Sarah come from? 00:30:00 - Tell us about getting frostbite and hypothermia. 00:34:58 - Tell us about doing the Colorado Trail in 2016. 00:36:48 - Was there any challenge to thru-hiking with your best friend? 00:39:50 - Tell us about the Annapurna Circuit. 00:43:35 - Was the person you did the circuit with a love interest? 00:45:00 - Tell us about the Appalachian Trail. 00:47:58 - Are you more of a solo hiker or a group hiker? 00:49:28 - Tell us about rain on the AT. 00:53:42 - What’d you do in 2018? 00:55:00 - What makes a family VIP? 00:59:12 - How much free time did you have while nannying? 01:00:30 - Tell us about the CDT in 2019. 01:02:58 - How did the CDT snow compare to the AT rain? 01:08:10 - How is it seeing 4 grizzlies in one day? 01:10:21 - What were your emotions when finishing the trail? 01:11:17 - Tell us about getting into ultrarunning.  01:14:30 - Fuck Marry Kill: the triple crown trails 01:15:47 - Tell us about the CT FKT attempt. 01:23:59 - Do you have more FKT aspirations? 01:25:03 - What are your song recommendations for climbs, running, and trail? 01:31:43 - Are there training differences between backpacking and running? 01:35:00 - Tell us about your diet and your thoughts on nutrition. 01:41:56 - Chaunce’s drink 01:48:10 - Tell us about your plans for a homestead. 01:50:22 - Discussion about animals as food vs. pets 01:52:24 - Chaunce’s chicken story 01:53:51 - How could someone get involved in your fitness coaching or follow your adventures? 01:56:38 - Anything else you want to share? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda Is Universal Cell Phone Coverage Around the Corner? by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of rainy day activities 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @headnodculture. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Mike Clelland. Mike is the author of one of the preeminent UL backpacking books, "Ultralight Backpackin' Tips: 153 Amazing & Inexpensive Tips For Extremely Lightweight Camping". We go through some of his top tips for getting pack weight down, how he arrived to the world of UL backpacking, his work with NOLS, his Alaskan expeditions, and much more. We also dive into Mike's fascination with the interplay of owls and UFOs which is perhaps predictably equal parts bizarre and fascinating. We wrap the show with a Triple Crown of things we don’t like about Colorado, clichés that we think are total bullshit, and we get another update from MG. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “backpackerradio” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Minus33: Use code “backpacker22” at minus33.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Mike Clelland Mike's Website Mike's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:47 - QOTD: What is a cliche you think is total bullshit? 00:07:17 - Reminders: support the Blue Sky Fund and subscribe to Backpacker Radio! 00:08:57 - Introducing Mike 00:11:02 - When did you get into illustration and cartoons? 00:13:51 - What was your favorite toy to draw advertisements for? 00:16:29 - Was your job anything like Mad Men? 00:21:05 - How did you get into backpacking? 00:28:56 - What was your backpacking experience prior to working at NOLS? 00:30:31 - Were you apprehensive about switching to ultralight gear? 00:32:16 - What are some of the key differences between Lighten Up! and Ultralight Backpackin’ Tips? 00:37:35 - Tip #3: Scrutinize Everything 00:41:40 - Tip #6: Try Something New Every Time You Go Camping? 00:46:44 - What’s a recent example of something you’ve tweaked in your setup? 00:48:24 - How important is it for someone to have DIY skills? 00:50:56 - Tip #9: Cut Stuff Off Your Gear 00:58:07 - Why should someone go ultralight? 01:05:30 - Tip #25: Appreciate the Wilderness 01:08:17 - Tip #30: Is going ultralight more expensive? 01:11:22 - Do you scrutinize your food as much as your gear? 01:16:31 - Tip #55: Prepare a Simple First Aid Kit 01:20:44 - What’s your take on torso length sleeping pads? 01:24:08 - You say a backpack can be as light as 3 ounces?! 01:26:22 - Tip #65: Choose Bold Routes 01:29:01 - Tip #100: The Humble Pillow 01:31:15 - Tip #116: Poop 01:40:44 - What are some of your favorite and least favorite natural wiping devices? 01:49:30 - Talk to us about UFOs and owls. 01:59:17 - What is hypnotic regression? 02:03:02 - Do you think these are ghost, alien, or other paranormal experiences? 02:04:45 - What percent of owls do you consider suspicious?  02:10:00 - Should we be suspicious of owls? 02:11:48 - Mike’s newest owl stories 02:17:28 - Are certain types of owls more suspicious than others? 02:22:07 - Where can people go to learn more? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Send Us Your Owl Stories Leave us a voicemail Email us at podcast@thetrek.co Write us a 5 Star Review Trek Propaganda Wind River High Route Trip Report Part 1: Photographic Route Description by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of things we don’t like about Colorado 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @headnodculture. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, guest co-host Steven Shattuck aka Twinkle and yours truly are joined by Kylie Yang. Kylie is a Field Programs Manager at the Continental Divide Trail Coalition, a thru-hiker, a former AT ridgerunner, and overall a wealth of knowledge regarding all things pertaining to the great outdoors. We chat about Kylie's foray into the world of thru-hiking, what being an Appalachian Trail ridgerunner looks like- including being called "an overly tattooed, hipster slut" by an angry hiker, and we learn all about her present-day role with the Continental Divide Trail Coalition and the challenges of getting volunteers to remote sections of the trail. We wrap the show with a triple crown of conspiracies you maybe buy into a little, useful items you'll likely find in a hiker box, new gear that we've been digging over the last season or two, what hitchhiking on the AT really looks like, and much more. Gossamer Gear: Use code “takelesstrekmore” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Minus33: Use code “backpacker22” at minus33.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Shoutout to our guest editor for this episode, Tina Mullen! Interview with Kylie Yang Kylie's Instagram The Bridge Project Continental Divide Trail Coalition Time stamps & Questions 00:05:16 - QOTD: What does today’s guest’s dad do for a living? 00:06:13 - Reminder 1: Apply to be a blogger for 2023! 00:06:31 - Reminder 2: Please subscribe! 00:07:04 - Introducing Kylie 00:07:54 - Discussion about growing up in southeastern Virginia/Yorktown 00:09:15 - How did you get into the outdoors? 00:11:08 - How did you transition to thru-hiking? 00:13:40 - Did you have a partner when you hiked? 00:14:52 - Tell us about your social experience on the AT. 00:16:25 - What’s your favorite story from your AT hike? 00:19:05 - Tell us another AT story! 00:21:02 - What was it like to hike through the places you grew up? 00:23:03 - What is a ridgerunner, for those who don’t know? 00:24:17 - Tell us about bears in New Jersey.  00:26:56 - Tell us about your tattoos! 00:30:06 - What’s the most common fuckup you see hikers making? 00:31:03 - Discussion about Kylie’s job setup 00:32:33 - Tell us about the interplay between you and thru-hikers. 00:35:24 - What’s a regular day in the life of a ridgerunner?  00:36:45 - Were you trained in how to educate people? 00:39:27 - What’s the weirdest trash you collected? 00:40:34 - Discussion about becoming a ridgerunner, the salary, and tips for interested people 00:43:44 - What’s the most common way people went against LNT practices? 00:46:10 - Tell us about the Long Path! 00:48:42 - Why did you hike in winter? 00:50:01 - How long would it take the average person to hike the Long Path? 00:51:03 - Why the Long Path? 00:53:14 - More discussion about section hiking the Long Path in the winter 00:56:57 - Tell us about working for the Continental Divide Trail Coalition. 00:58:25 - Tell us about the Bridge Project. 01:00:00 - Shoe tangents 01:01:43 - What would you tell people looking to get into trail work? 01:02:12 - Is there a difference between volunteering out east and in the Rockies? 01:03:57 - Tell us about the type of work you do and what is most rewarding. 01:05:30 - Discussion about the openings at the CDTC. 01:07:20 - What’s been the most exciting project in Colorado? 01:08:05 - Discussion about qualifications and incentives for volunteering 01:13:20 - Discussion about trail adopters 01:15:52 - How much of the trail is adopted? 01:18:00 - What else should people know about volunteering or the CDTC? 01:19:08 - What’s next for you? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda 6 Useful Items You Can Almost Always Find in an AT Hiker Box by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of conspiracies you maybe buy a little New Gear Review Listener Voicemail (and leave us your own!) 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @headnodculture. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are bringing you another panel episode. Today we are joined by Backpacker Radio regular, Clay Bonnyman Evans aka Pony to compare and contrast thru-hiking and section hiking. We go deep, focusing largely on the benefits of each of these styles of hiking, who they're for, what we have personally gained from them, and much more. If you're curious about whether you should hit the pause button on your life and take a half year to meander in the mountains, this episode will hopefully serve you a ton of value. And, as always when Pony is studio, this one is delightfully wild.   Gossamer Gear: Use code “backpackerradio” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Minus33: Use code “backpacker22” for 15% off at minus33.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Panel with Badger, Chaunce, and Pony Tom Turcich (and His Pup) Set to Complete 7-Year Around-the-World Walk Next Month by Clay Bonnyman Evans Leave us a voicemail! Time stamps & Questions 00:05:03 - QOTD: What’s the stupidest thing you’ve done this week? 00:20:05 - Reminders: Apply to be a blogger for 2023! 00:20:32 - Introducing the panel topic 00:22:30 - Panelist’s hiking experiences 00:23:55 - Discussion of the definition of section hiking 00:26:05 - Chaunce’s Thru-Hiking Pro #1 00:28:25 - Zach’s Thru-Hiking Pro #1 00:31:40 - Pony’s disclaimer about section hiking 00:34:02 - Pony’s Thru-Hiking Pro #1 00:38:15 - Chaunce’s Thru-Hiking Pro #2 00:46:18 - Zach’s Thru-Hiking Pro #2 00:57:44 - Pony’s Thru-Hiking Pro #2 01:02:00 - Chaunce’s Thru-Hiking Pro #3 01:05:55 - Zach’s Thru-Hiking Pro #3 01:06:50 - Discussion of friends and trail families while thru-hiking 01:09:05 - Pony’s Thru-Hiking Pro #3 01:12:10 - Chaunce’s Section Hiking Pro #1 01:17:48 - Zach’s Section Hiking Pro #1 01:20:56 - Pony’s Section Hiking Pro #1 01:26:40 - Chaunce’s Section Hiking Pro #2 01:27:30 - Zach’s Section Hiking Pro #2 01:30:05 - Chaunce’s Section Hiking Pro #3 01:32:48 - Pony’s Section Hiking Pro #2 [divider] Check out our sound guy @headnodculture. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Minus33, we are joined by Kraig Adams. Kraig has accumulated more than 700,000 YouTube subscribers while showcasing his adventures from around the world, including Mae Hong Son Loop in Thailand, Adirondack High Peaks, Tour Du Mont Blanc Loop in France, Santa Cruz Trek in Peru, Torres del Paine in Chile, Kesugi Ridge Trail in Alaska, Sawtooth Loop Trail in Idaho, just to name a few. We learn how Kraig got into the world of video blogging, how he's turned it into a full time profession, his favorite and least favorite hikes domestically and abroad, what advice he'd offer to aspiring worldly travelers, how and why he maintains a life of minimalism, and much more. We wrap the show with a triple crown of things that you aren’t superstitious about but may be a little-sticious about, a guide to edible berries along the PCT, and another update from MG! Minus33: Use code “backpacker22” at minus33.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “takelesstrekmore” for 15% off at gossamergear.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Kraig Adams Kraig's Youtube Channel Kraig's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:03:03 - QOTD: What’s a sport that no matter the skill level, you don’t find impressive at all? 00:07:23 - Reminders: Apply to be the Trek’s Youtube personality! 00:07:29 - Introducing Kraig 00:08:20 - Tell us about your background. 00:09:57 - Discussion about initial filmmaking in NYC.  00:11:45 - What’s your benchmark for a successful video today? 00:12:57 - What’s the inspiration for your video style? 00:14:34 - Are you using backpacking as a means to travel or travel as a means to backpack? 00:16:06 - Tell us your hiking resume. 00:17:54 - Does it feel like work for you? 00:18:52 - Do you ever hike with your dog? 00:20:00 - What goes into planning a trip for you? 00:23:35 - Would you say your priority is more the video product or your own experience? 00:25:07 - How do you balance your work and home life? 00:27:02 - How does being a minimalist impact the decisions you make while traveling? 00:29:09 - How does minimalism influence your physical belongings? 00:30:48 - Is your wife a minimalist? 00:34:10 - Discussion about Big Bend 00:34:50 - What are your top three favorite US hikes? 00:35:47 - What are your top three favorite international hikes? 00:37:31 - How was your most recent Tour du Mont Blanc? 00:38:05 - What is it like to do a trip with subscribers? 00:42:10 - Do you get recognized a lot? 00:43:02 - Do you have any stories about trips going awry? 00:45:57 - How do you prepare for camping alone in Alaska? 00:47:15 - Discussion about navigation 00:48:30 - Hike superlatives 00:53:15 - What tips do you have about the Sawtooth Loop? 00:54:03 - What international hike would you recommend for beginners? 00:55:32 - Which trail has the best wildlife? 00:57:08 - What’s your fear level? 01:00:14 - Do you have any other travel tips and tricks? 01:03:03 - What are some primary/secondary hike pairs? 01:05:06 - Tell us about your camera gear and video process. 01:08:27 - Is there one component that accounts for the majority of your revenue? 01:11:09 - Discussion about brand partnerships 01:13:20 - Where can people follow you? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda A Short & Sweet Introduction to Picking Edible Berries Along the PCT by J. Taylor Bell Triple Crown of things you aren’t superstitious about but are maybe a little-stitious about Twitter Picture Chaunce Surprise Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @headnodculture. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Robbie Balenger. Robbie is a plant-based ultra-endurance athlete, with achievements including a run across the United States and a feat he dubbed the Colorado Crush which involves hiking the 485-mile Colorado Trail, summiting all 58 of Colorado's 14,000-ft peaks, and running the Leadville Trail Series- the marathon, the-50 mile race, and the 100-mile race...all of this in the span of 63 days! We of course go in-depth about these endurance undertakings, including how he manages his diet, his recovery, the highlights and lowlights from these adventures, the role his crew plays, and much more. You will walk away from this one feeling either very inspired or very lazy- and quite likely both. We wrap the show with a triple crown of trees, some promising news on the Lyme disease vaccine front, we get another update from MG, and we share some of our favorite shorter thru-hikes for a listener. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “backpackerradio” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Interview with Robbie Balenger Robbie's Website Robbie's Instagram Colorado Crush Documentary Outlast a Tesla The Audacious Report Time stamps & Questions 00:05:19 - QOTD: What’s something that you like less as you get older? 00:15:26 - Introducing Robbie 00:16:17 - When did you get into athletics and endurance sports? 00:19:23 - What is it about running that draws you in? 00:20:44 - Discussion about marathon strategies and breaking through the wall 00:22:48 - Discussion about food during running 00:24:02 - How did you prevent injury on your transcontinental run? 00:25:20 - Discussion about shoes 00:26:12 - Tell us about your plant-based diet. 00:30:42 - Discussion about alcohol 00:31:52 - What do you eat to get enough calories? 00:34:44 - How did you occupy your mind on your transcontinental run? 00:37:29 - Tell us about the Central Park Loop 00:39:55 - Discussion about backyard ultras 00:41:07 - What would you say your mental drive is? 00:43:29 - Discussion about training intensity and strategies 00:46:18 - Do you have any recurring injuries? 00:47:26 - Tell us about NuCalm 00:56:41 - What was the inspiration for the Colorado Crush? 00:58:05 - What lessons did you learn about setting up a good sponsorship model? 01:00:19 - What was the structure and order of the Colorado Crush? 01:01:34 - What made the Leadville 100 the most difficult event? 01:03:42 - How did you decide the timing? 01:04:41 - Has anyone told you they’re interested in replicating the Colorado Crush? 01:05:02 - Fuck Marry Kill: the Leadville Trail Series, all the 14ers, and the Colorado Trail 01:05:40 - How did the Colorado Trail compare to your expectations? 01:07:13 - How do you compare/contrast road running and trail running? 01:09:48 - Any fun hallucination stories? 01:12:21 - What’s your mentality while running at night? 01:14:30 - What lazy things do you love doing? 01:15:42 - What did you learn about yourself as a man? 01:18:22 - Is it unusual to have the height of your career start late? 01:19:14 - How was your mindspace as you started the 14ers? 01:21:06 - What were the logistics for getting to and up all the 14ers? 01:23:10 - Did you have any close weather calls? 01:24:33 - Tell us about your crew 01:26:23 - Is there anything you can’t eat anymore? 01:27:37 - Anything else to share from the Leadville 100? 01:28:41 - What does the future hold for you? 01:32:00 - Where can people keep up with you? SEGMENTS MG Check-In New Sound Bites Trek Propaganda In Defense of Wild: Cheryl Strayed’s Memoir Is Nothing Like Your Trail Journal, and That’s OK by Penina Satlow Lyme Disease Vaccine Enters Phase 3 Trials by Penina Satlow Triple Crown of trees Quadzilla’s Quads Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Wyn Wiley, better known online as Pattie Gonia. Pattie is a "professional homosexual", environmentalist, and a drag queen. This conversation is fun and informative. We go deep learning all the fun nuances of the drag world, including what goes into a good tuck (who owns the title for the GOAT of tucking), the best drag songs, and the core components of a good drag performance. Pattie shares all the good work she's is doing with various outdoor organizations to improve representation in the outdoors. And of course we get a run down of what goes into being ultra-athletic in high heel boots. We close the show with a triple crown of awkward places to run into an ex, a Q&A segment, and we cover if thru-hiking the PCT can give you a dumptruck ass. Gossamer Gear: Use code “backpackerradio” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Interview with Wyn Wiley aka Pattie Gonia Pattie's Instagram The Outdoorist Oath Website The Outdoorist Oath Instagram Queer Outdoor and Environmental Job Board Austin Smith Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:56 - QOTD: What’s the easiest meal of the day to eat healthfully? 00:10:39 - Reminder: Apply to be a 2023 Trek Blogger 00:11:34 - Introducing Wyn! 00:13:05 - Who is Wyn Wiley? 00:15:26 - How did you become Pattie Gonia? 00:17:40 - Were you always openly queer? 00:19:23 - Who put boundaries on you as a kid? 00:22:10 - How do you run in high heels? 00:24:20 - What were you thinking when you posted some of your first viral videos? 00:27:22 - Were some people okay with you being gay but not with your wearing heels? 00:29:26 - Can you explain Wyn and Pattie’s different pronouns? 00:31:40 - What’s a good protocol for knowing when to ask someone their preferred pronouns? 00:33:36 - Discussion about being Pattie versus Wyn 00:35:10 - What’s the most difficult physical endeavor you’ve done in heels? 00:36:14 - Discussion about tucking 00:41:45 - Tell us about your hiking clothes. 00:42:48 - Do you have any tips for hiking in heels? 00:44:42 - Do you have any good eating shit stories from hiking in heels? 00:45:41 - Tell us about your recent event with the North Face. 00:48:29 - How can businesses be better allies? 00:50:34 - How can businesses move into the advocacy space? 00:52:31 - Do you want to give any particular people a shoutout? 00:54:09 - Have you had experiences where brands have approached you the wrong way? 00:55:48 - What were some of the biggest lessons you learned? 00:57:18 - What do you recommend for people looking to join queer outdoor communities? 00:59:07 - What does into a 10/10 drag performance? 01:03:42 - If you’re stranded on drag island, what 3 songs do you bring for your performance? 01:05:25 - If you were to make a drag starter pack, what would be in it? 01:06:28 - What is your go-to hiking snack? 01:11:18 - Do you feel like the thru-hiking community better accepts the queer community? 01:15:35 - How do you think you can bring more straight, white men to allyship? 01:17:01 - Do you see any backlash for caring about hair and makeup in the outdoors? 01:20:10 - Tell us about your makeup process. 01:22:09 - If you could pick only 3 pieces of makeup, what would you choose? 01:22:50 - Tell us about the plastics crisis work you did in Hawaii. 01:27:50 - Tell us about your organization, the Outdoorist Oath. 01:28:56 - What are the first projects your organization is starting with? 01:30:32 - Can you tell us about calling out NOLS? 01:37:29 - What should companies prioritize to do better by communities? 01:40:03 - Where can people go to keep up with you? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Hiker Dies After Being Found Unresponsive on Mt. Washington by Penina Satlow Triple Crown of awkward places to bump into an ex Instagram Q&A Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by The Netteburg family. Danae and Olen Netteburg, alongside their 5 children- ages ranging from 13 to 1, are currently thru-hiking the CDT. This is their second thru-hike in three years, after the family completed the Appalachian Trail in 2020. The Netteburg's story is one of a kind- both Danae and Olen are missionary doctors who run a 100-bed hospital in rural Chad. We go in-depth learning about how a family of seven manages on a trail as challenging as the CDT, their standout highs and lows from the AT, what life is like back in their home of Chad and the challenges of their work, and much more. The kiddos were also in and out of the studio for this one, so be prepared for the fun chaos that will ensue. We wrap the show with a triple crown of things you put on a cracker, a fan follow up to Kathryn Miles' episode which paints a different picture of one of the suspects, and we opine on the movies most deserving of a sequel. Gossamer Gear: Use code “backpackerradio” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Tanri: Use code “bpradio10” for 10% off at tanri.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Interview with Danae and Olen Netteburg Danae's Instagram Olen's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:10 - QOTD: What movie do you most wish had a sequel? 00:07:15 - Introducing the Netteburgs 00:08:15 - How did you end up on trail as a family? 00:10:15 - Tell us about being doctors in Chad! 00:13:08 - Can you compare practicing medicine in the US versus abroad? 00:15:20 - Can anything stress you out while thru-hiking? 00:18:12 - Tell us some crazy doctor stories. 00:21:01 - What are the kid’s thoughts on the biggest differences between Chad and America? 00:22:10 - Hippo facts! 00:25:56 - What other scary animals do you deal with in Chad? 00:27:15 - What precautions do you take for mosquitos? 00:30:16 - What drives you to continue being doctors in Chad? 00:32:24 - How did you decide to hike the AT in 2020? 00:36:15 - Kids: what was your initial impression of the AT? 00:39:20 - Tell us about the timeline for starting the AT? 00:43:15 - Did you ever consider stopping the hike? 00:47:50 - What does a 6 person resupply/meal strategy look like? 00:49:15 - Are all the kids hiking themselves? 00:51:30 - What are some parenting hacks to keep the kids happy while hiking? 00:54:42 - Is it a welcome distraction or additional burden to keep the kids happy? 00:55:35 - How do you handle it when they’re grumpy? 00:57:44 - What are each of their hiking personas? 01:00:15 - At what age do they stay reliably on trail? 01:00:50 - What’s the extent of the gear that the kids carry? 01:03:35 - What packs do you use? 01:05:12 - Roughly speaking, what’s your typical pace? 01:08:33 - Discussion about feeding the kids 01:11:10 - What are the other person’s most and least endearing hiking traits? 01:15:02 - Did you get a lot of criticism in 2020? 01:15:49 - How would you compare the challenge of the AT and the CDT? 01:17:29 - Discussion about potty training and hiking with a baby 01:20:31 - How do you manage sleep deprivation? 01:21:41 - How do you manage to stay happy partners? 01:23:19 - Tell us about managing the monsoons and lightning on the CDT. 01:27:40 - Discussion about using umbrellas 01:28:50 - Tell us about your spreadsheets! 01:34:51 - If you could go back to day 0 on the AT, what advice would you give yourself? 01:36:29 - How do the kids adjust when you return to your busy work schedules? 01:38:27 - How much would you say thru-hiking is for you two, the kids, or the family? 01:39:17 - Do you think the kids have the thru-hiking itch now? 01:40:45 - Where can people keep up with you? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Pooping on the Appalachian Trail: Important Statistics from My Thru-Hike by Brian “Slurpee” Garner Montbell Superior Down Parka Review by Elise Ott Triple Crown of things you put on a cracker Mail Bag 5 Star Review Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Quinn Brett. Quinn was a world-class climber prior to her 2017 fall in Yosemite left her paralyzed from the waist down. Since then, Quinn being the badass athlete that she is, has found new modes to adventure, having most recently completed the 2,500-mile Tour Divide on an adaptive handbike, which she did in just 25 days. We learn all about Quinn's accident, how her adventures, friendships, and life have changed since that fall, and we go in-depth about her advocacy work- how Quinn is fighting to improve recreational accessibility for other persons with disabilities. We wrap the show with a Triple Crown of Countries You’d Live in if Deported from the US, a brief overview of some of the reasons we've fired Mara, and we opine on where Funyuns belong in the greater chip ranking. Gossamer Gear: Use code “backpackerradio” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Ned: Use code “backpacker” for 15% off at helloned.com/backpacker. [divider] Interview with Quinn Brett Quinn's Instagram Quinn's Website An Accidental Life Time stamps & Questions 00:03:08 - QOTD: Have you heard of Elon Musk’s dog mode? 00:07:38 - Reminders: submit your AT terminus pictures! 00:08:10 - Introducing Quinn 00:08:37 - How did you originally get interested in the outdoors and climbing? 00:10:47 - What does climbing look like in Minnesota? 00:11:51 - What does doing a season in Yosemite mean? 00:13:04 - How did you get started on the big walls? 00:14:51 - What is it like camping in a portaledge? 00:16:25 - Discussion about premier climbing locations in Colorado and the US. 00:17:28 - Tell us about your accident. 00:20:47 - How did you get off the wall? 00:22:49 - Was the fall itself painful? 00:23:33 - How did you brain process learning that you were paralyzed? 00:25:21 - How did your relationship with climbing change? 00:27:13 - Are there options for climbing while paralyzed? 00:29:30 - Would you go back and change anything if you could? 00:31:21 - What have you noticed about inaccessibility since your injury? 00:34:39 - What are the most common barriers to accessibility in the outdoors? 00:37:30 - Tell us about your documentary. 00:38:52 - What would you want to change about the documentary? 00:41:31 - Tell us more about the current and future therapies for spinal cord injuries. 00:44:01 - Is there any hope in something like Neuralink? 00:46:30 - Tell us about your ride on the Tour Divide. 00:47:53 - How did you train for the ride? 00:49:15 - Would your hand cycle have tipped less with two rear wheels? 00:51:35 - How did you solve the battery problem? 00:52:51 - Tell us about the camping. 00:54:55 - Do you feel like your upper body has gained perception after your injury? 00:56:04 - What were some of the highlights of the Tour Divide? 00:57:01 - Do you have any advice for someone who’s interested in doing a similar ride? 00:58:36 - Can you describe the community you’ve found among other people with disabilities? 00:59:56 - Do you have any good poop stories from the ride? 01:02:15 - Did you see any grizzly bears? 01:03:50 - Are there any states that are particularly accessible or particularly not? 01:04:44 - Tell us about the political advocacy work you do. 01:07:03 - Tell us about the advocacy work you’ve done for public lands. 01:09:00 - How have your personal relationships changed since your injury? 01:12:22 - Are there any other toys or gear items you’re excited to try? 01:13:28 - What safety measures do you take while rafting or kayaking? 01:15:15 - Were you ever interested in the Paralympics? 01:16:00 - What are some of your plans or goals for the next five to ten years? 01:17:37 - Where should people go to find you or support initiatives you’re working on? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda 60 PCT Hikers Evacuated from Trail As McKinney Fire Burns Near CA-OR Border by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of countries you’d live in if you were deported from the US Reasons We’ve Fired Mara Mail Bag 5 Star Review Listener Voicemail [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Arlette "Apple Pie" Laan. Apple Pie is the first woman to hike all eleven of the National Scenic Trails in the United States, which frankly only scratches the surface on her hiking and backpacking career. We chat about some of her favorite stories from her tens of thousands of miles on trail, her favorite and least favorite of the National Scenic Trails, how she managed to become the backpacking legend that she is today despite not starting until she was 30 years old, and much more. Arlette doesn't hold back in her answers, we think you'll get a kick out of this chat. We wrap the show with a triple crown of talents most people don’t know that we possess, a story of how I ended up at the ER after the Golden Hiker Meetup, and Chaunce has COVID!   Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Tanri: Use code “bpradio10” for 10% off at tanri.com. Interview with Arlette “Apple Pie” Laan Arlette's Instagram Arlette Laan Fiber Creations Instagram Arlette's Website Redline Guiding Website Time stamps & Questions 00:04:35 - QOTD: What’s the dumbest thing you’ve done this week? 00:12:18 - How was the Golden hiker meetup? 00:14:02 - Shoutout to the Blue Sky Fund! 00:15:03 - Introducing Arlette 00:15:48 - How did you get into long distance backpacking? 00:17:34 - How did you get your trail name? 00:19:04 - How many miles have you hiked? 00:20:14 - What trails have you done other than the National Scenic Trails? 00:20:51 - How did you experience backpacking in Europe after getting into it in the US? 00:24:22 - Is there any particular reason you left the Ice Age Trail for last? 00:27:47 - At what point did you realize you wanted to do all the National Scenic Trails? 00:31:38 - What were your 3 favorite and 3 least favorite trails? 00:34:14 - Give us your best sales pitch for the CDT. 00:38:00 - Discussion about changing navigation technology. 00:40:27 - How does homesickness play into your long trails? 00:46:53 - Discussion about the Florida Trail. 00:48:16 - Discussion about the Pacific Northwest Trail. 00:49:32 - Tell us why the AT isn’t at the top of your list. 00:51:21 - What are the best 3 states and worst 3 states in the US in your opinion? 00:57:58 - What do you do when there’s no good camping? 00:59:00 - Do you have any standout wildlife stories? 01:01:00 - Have you always been an adventure-seeker? 01:04:03 - Were you pushing your physical limits prior to thru-hiking? 01:08:56 - Now that you’ve done so many long trails, what do you wish you knew when you started? 01:10:24 - How do you think being a woman has impacted your backpacking? 01:12:49 - How have you been able to financially and logistically do all of these hikes? 01:15:18 - Tell us about doll making! 01:18:45 - Tell us more about the guiding you do. 01:21:56 - What words of inspiration do you have for someone reluctant to get into backpacking? 01:23:10 - What’s your most embarrassing hiking story? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Arlette “Apple Pie” Laan on Becoming the First Woman to Hike All 11 National Scenic Trails by Alison Young [Book Review] Adventure Ready by Katie Gerber and Heather Anderson by Penina Satlow Triple Crown of talents most people don’t know you possess Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Diane "Sticks" Harsha. Diane is an AT section hiker, the author of "Sticks and Stones: How to Hike the Appalachian Trail in 13 Years", and a retired FBI agent. We of course spend a lot of time talking about Diane's career in the bureau- including questions about the rigorous training and testing required to be accepted into the FBI, negotiation tactics that could be applied to convincing a spouse to let you leave for an extended backpacking trip, carrying a weapon on trail, and the overlap between working in the FBI and backpacking the AT at large. And yes of course we sneak in a couple of X-Files questions. We wrap the show with a triple crown of celebrities we'd most want to party with, a story about Chaunce farting her way through a work Zoom meeting, and Badger announces his next backpacking trip. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Ned: Use code “backpacker” for 15% off at helloned.com/backpacker. Interview with Diane “Sticks” Harsha Diane's Facebook Diane's LinkedIn Sticks and Stones on Audible Sticks and Stones on Amazon Time stamps & Questions 00:02:55 - QOTD: What’s the most embarrassing moment you have from a virtual meeting? 00:15:42 - QOTD 2: What’s the thing you’re most excited about? 00:20:02 - Reminders: Shoutout to our new Chuck Norris members! 00:21:40 - Introducing Diane 00:22:27 - How did you get into the FBI? 00:25:12 - What was the fitness test you took? 00:26:47 - Is Chaunce fit enough to join the FBI? 00:31:00 - Discussion about age norms. 00:33:11 - Tell us more about FBI training. 00:37:55 - Discussion about the accuracy of polygraph tests. 00:39:42 - Were you on any wild cases you can tell us about? 00:44:40 - Do you feel like you were treated differently as a woman agent? 00:46:53 - Since it’s illegal to make false statements to federal agents, could we go to prison for lying to you? 00:48:34 - What negotiation skills would you recommend for convincing your partner to let you do a thru-hike? 00:51:03 - Tell us more about active listening. 00:53:40 - Did you ever use these communication strategies while hiking? 00:56:44 - What other skills crossed over between being an FBI agent and hiking? 00:59:07 - Did you experience fear before starting the trail? 01:00:30 - Did you hike with a gun? 01:03:10 - If you had to pick one state on the AT to carry your gun through, which would it be? 01:06:40 - Was your husband more worried about your career or about your hiking? 01:08:31 - What were your single most dangerous moments in the FBI and on the trail? 01:14:03 - What other things did you bring to trail from your career? 01:18:50 - Did the trail ever grant you any insights related to your work or a case? 01:21:24 - Is there an emotional lull after completing each case? 01:24:10 - Did you ever have a case that could have been an episode of X-Files? 01:25:30 - What are things that movies and shows always get wrong? 01:28:12 - What are the advantages to section hiking the AT over many years instead of all at once? 01:31:35 - Tell us about how you planned the sections. 01:38:14 - Give us your trail name origin story. 01:42:20 - When did you get the inspiration to write the book? 01:46:08 - What can a reader expect when they pick up the book? 01:48:50 - Where can people find the book? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda Desolation Wilderness Now Requires Bear-Resistant Food Storage by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of non-A or B-list celebrities you’d love to party with Listener Voicemail 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are bringing you another edition of Beginner Backpacking Mistakes. Today we're joined by our good pal and backpacking superstar, Steven “Twinkle” Shattuck, to give you a rundown of mistakes to avoid on your next backpacking trip.  If you listened to the first edition of this panel, rest assured that all of the tips in this episode are brand new- backed by many thousands of miles of trail experience- we made all the mistakes so you don't have to. We also have a triple crown of our favorite day hikes in Colorado, we learn about Twinkle and Grace's recent epic backpacking trip in Peru, and we wrap the show with a solid hazing of Chaunce. RTIC Outdoors: Use code “backpacker” for 10% off orders over $50 at rticoutdoors.com. Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Ned: Use code “backpacker” for 15% off at helloned.com/backpacker. Tanri: Use code “bpradio10” for 10% off at tanri.com. Panel with Badger, Chaunce, and Twinkle Backpacker Radio 61 | Grace and Steven “Twinkle” Shattuck on Their 15 Month Dirtbagging Adventure Backpacker Radio Episode #6: Steven “Twinkle” Shattuck on Dirt-Bagging for a Year, The Best Headlamps for Thru-Hiking, and Curing Anxiety on Trail Twinkle's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:06:18 - QOTD: What have you been up to since we last talked? 00:11:27 - Discussion about Twinkle’s Huayllapa Circuit hike 00:21:14 - Twinkle’s Mistake #1: Relying on your phone too heavily for navigation 00:28:20 - Chaunce’s Mistake #1: Not including gear replacements or fixes into your trail budget 00:36:00 - Zach’s Mistake #1: Not eating enough food 00:43:50 - Twinkle’s Mistake #2: Splitting up with your group without making a detailed plan 00:57:08 - Chaunce’s Mistake #2: Just because your body feels like it can push on, doesn’t mean it should 01:02:32 - Zach’s Mistake #2: Be more selective with your campsites 01:15:02 - Twinkle’s Mistake #3: Do not buy excess footwear prior to your hike 01:25:00 - Nancy East fan club 01:28:13 - Chaunce’s Mistake #3: Not preparing for what happens after your hike 01:34:58 - Zach’s Mistake #3: Not budgeting enough extra time for your hike SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 5 Backpacking Hacks I Learned from HikeTok by Katie Houston Triple Crown of our favorite Colorado day hikes [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac,  Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Shayla "Kiddo" Paradeis. Shayla is a very accomplished backpacker, with the triple crown just scratching the surface of her hiking resume, but it's her approach to backpacking that makes this conversation stand out. We chat about what it's like to backpack in today's age without a smartphone, including the differences of keeping in touch with hikers, navigating on trail, tracking the forecast, and more. Shayla also shares her experience of healing on trail, and how her experiences as a sexual assault survivor have played a major role in her desire to be in the backcountry. Another warning to listeners, if the subject of sexual assault is especially triggering to you, we encourage you to skip ahead about half way into today's interview. We wrap the show with the triple crown of reasons to go to a baseball game, we check in with MG as she's just hiked through the 100-Mile Wilderness, we discuss things that feel like a scam but aren't (but also sort of are), and give a shoutout to a couple who got engaged on the PCT this year! Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Ned: Use code “backpacker” for 15% off at helloned.com/backpacker. Interview with Shayla “Kiddo” Paradeis Shayla's Website Shayla's Youtube Channel Time stamps & Questions 00:02:52 - QOTD: What isn’t a scam but feels like one? 00:05:50 - Reminders: Leftover trail days shirts *were* in the Trek store! 00:06:38 - Introducing Shayla 00:07:23 - How does one decide to hike without a smartphone? 00:10:23 - What’s the rationale? 00:13:12 - Are you off of social media entirely? 00:15:10 - Do you ever listen to music? 00:17:24 - How have you noticed hikers change as you’ve hiked so many trails? 00:21:59 - Have you noticed a change in how you get through your day? 00:24:37 - How are you checking the weather forecast? 00:25:54 - Do you get frustrated being around other hikers who are always on their phones? 00:28:10 - Has any part of you lost faith in humanity? 00:29:57 - Discussion about navigation and getting lost without a phone. 00:33:52 - Tell us about your hiking group patterns for your long trails. 00:36:25 - What was your hitchhiking method? 00:37:07 - Did you ever get bothered by your hiking partners using their phones? 00:38:36 - If you could do it over again, would you hike alone? 00:40:17 - Do you have any tips for people wanting to set boundaries? 00:46:44 - Tell us about the Haute Route. 00:49:06 - Can you compare the Haute Route and the Tour du Mont Blanc? 00:51:02 - Are you also a runner? 00:52:30 - Why don’t you like racing as much anymore? 00:53:44 - Did you have a light pack in 2011? 00:54:41 - Tell us about eating better. 00:56:51 - How many calories did you consume on trail? 00:57:49 - Are you a competitive person? 01:01:11 - Tell us more about why you’re hiking. 01:04:57 - What happened that led you to run away to Glacier? 01:06:30 - Were your parents disappointed when you left New York? 01:08:02 - Did the trauma you experience relate to getting into backpacking? 01:09:42 - Have you found thru-hiking to be healing? 01:10:41 - (Begin trigger warning) How did your relationship on trail pan out? 01:12:33 - Did any part of you want to quit hiking after that? 01:15:10 - How did you feel safety-wise after that? 01:16:36 - Tell us more about your book. 01:18:47 - Can you give us a synopsis of what the book is about? 01:21:22 - (End trigger warning) Tell us about the volunteering you do in Glacier National Park. 01:25:50 - Tell us about grizzlies and wolves! 01:27:10 - Discussion about how wolves impact the ecosystem. 01:29:08 - Is there anything else you want to share? 01:29:48 - Thank you! SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda Meet the Thru-Hiking Couple Who Got Engaged on the PCT by Penina Satlow After 9,000 Miles of Thru-Hiking, These Are the 10 Items I Never Leave Home Without by Jenn Wall Triple Crown of reasons to go to a baseball game Pupdate Mara-Edition Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac, Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, and Mike Poisel. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by RTIC, we are joined by Kathryn Miles. Kathryn is an award-winning journalist, science writer, and the author of five books, most recently "Trailed: One Woman's Quest to Solve the Shenandoah Murders", which is the focus of today's chat.  We go deep on everything to do with this case, including the gruesome details of the murders, why this was not a random act of violence, why this case has yet to be solved, who Kathryn believes to be the perpetrator, and much more. A warning to listeners, this one goes into some pretty horrific details on the subjects of sexual assault and murder. If either of these subjects are especially triggering to you, we encourage you to skip ahead to the segments for this one.  We then pivot from rape and murder to the triple crown of ice cream toppings.  Typical backpacker radio stuff. RTIC Outdoors: Use code “backpacker” for 10% off your order of $50 or more at rticoutdoors.com Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Kathryn Miles Kathryn Miles Website Kathryn’s Instagram Buy Trailed: One Woman's Quest to Solve the Shenandoah Murders or at your local bookstore Time stamps & Questions 00:05:23 - QOTD: How was your day today?  00:11:37 - Introducing Kathryn Miles  00:12:12 - What’s your hiking background?  00:12:53 - Anything else you want to add about the hiker designations?  00:13:52 - Can you tell us about your journalism career?  00:15:23 - Did you always know ‘Trailed: One Woman's Quest to Solve the Shenandoah Murders’ was going to become a book?  00:17:01 - Can you give an overview of the case? 00:19:11 - What were the challenges with writing this?  00:21:36 - Do you eventually develop thicker skin towards these stories?  00:22:45 - Going into this project, were you afraid of the side effects others experienced after digging into similar stories?  00:24:08 - Did you have a background or past interest in true crime?  00:25:44 - When you’re researching something like this, where do you start?  00:27:40 - How do you focus on the killer when you don’t know the killer?  00:29:44 - Amateur sleuthing  00:30:32 - Do you worry about bringing a new potential killer into the story?  00:32:45 - Did you lose your love for the outdoors and hiking after writing the book?  00:35:12 - Did you end up viewing the photos? 00:36:40 - Could you share some more details around this being a premeditated murder?  00:39:58 - What will readers learn through the book that they wouldn’t through the police reports? 00:42:01 - What were some of the most interesting things you found in the reports?  00:47:37 - Can you speak to the general safety of the trails?  00:50:37 - Do you think there’s anything nefarious with that?  00:53:15 - Are park rangers part of a union?  00:54:01 - Tell us more about the culture clash in the involved parties  00:55:59 - Were there any thru-hiking suspects?  00:56:48 - Did you ever find out why he had a bloody knife?  00:58:18 - Can you tell us more about the second character?  01:00:24 - What were the similarities between the two murders?  01:01:01 - Was there a purpose to wrapping a body in a sleeping bag?  01:02:53 - How do they determine who’s vibrator it was?  01:03:52 - What did he do to modify it?  01:05:54 - Is there any scenario in which the murderer wants to be caught?  01:08:59 - What’s your personal opinion on who the killer is?  01:10:10 - What is Darrell Rice doing these days?  01:11:11 - Did you try to reach out to Darrell Rice?  01:12:12 - Is he still missing?  01:13:30 - What convinced them it was Darrell Rice?  01:16:28 - What do you think it will take for the FBI to pick up this case again?  01:16:53 - Where should phone calls and letters be sent?  01:17:39 - What are the odds that the person who did it, isn’t either of the two focused on in the book?  01:18:45 - How do you see the Shenandoah murders fitting into a culture of misogyny?  01:20:34 - Could you tell us more about your research into women being excluded from the outdoors?  01:22:18 - How do you instill confidence into those still out hiking near the Shenandoah?  01:24:26 - How was it hiking the AT during that time?  01:25:14 - How did it change the vibe of the trail?  01:26:49 - Do you think it would have impacted the outcome if the women were in a more public camping area?  01:28:21 - Are there other documented crimes specifically against non-binary hikers on trail?  01:30:22 - Is there any research on non-binary hiker crimes?  01:32:01 - Where should people get your book?  01:32:30 - Any projects in the pipeline we should know about?  01:33:37 - Wrap Up  SEGMENTS Surprise Mail  Audience Mail Bag  Trek Propaganda  [Book Review] Trailed: One Woman’s Quest to Solve the Shenandoah Murders by Penina Satlow  Triple Crown Q&A Segment  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac, Tracy “Trigger” Fawns, and Mike Poisel. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by no one! Today's episode is all about the Tahoe Rim Trail and Badger's recent experience thru-hiking this trail. This one covers everything you'd want to know about hiking the TRT, including the trail's basics, my experience and advice for resupply, gear, pacing, permits, bear storage, the best time to hike this trail, bugs, dealing with snow, navigation, funny stories, cell service, worst chafes, best poops, and much more. We wrap the show with a very weird and impromptu segment- healing your holes with Badger and Chaunce, we touch on the sad news of a hiker who recently passed in the White Mountain National Forest, we get a ridiculous poop story from our pal Paul Packman Sealy, and Backpacker Radio sponsorship winner MG gives us her first update from the AT! Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. Point6: Use code “point6trek” for 30% off at point6.com. [divider] Interview with Zach “Badger” Davis Badger's Tahoe Rim Trail Gear List Time stamps & Questions 00:04:42 - QOTD: Would you rather have an elephant’s nose or a giraffe’s neck? 00:08:20 - Introducing Zach! 00:09:05 - What is the TRT? 00:10:52 - Which direction did you hike? 00:11:57 - Tell us about the elevation and miles per day. 00:14:40 - Did you need a bear canister? 00:18:25 - Tell us about the permits required. 00:21:21 - How many people did you see each day? 00:22:30 - Did anyone ask if you hiked the AT? 00:24:25 - How was the water situation? 00:26:13 - Was it exposed or under treeline? 00:27:15 - How was the snow situation? 00:33:40 - What is the best time of year to hike the TRT? 00:35:49 - Tell us about day 1. 00:39:28 - Did you make any friends? 00:39:47 - Discussion about Zach’s Ursack. 00:43:30 - Tell us about day 2 (chafing). 00:47:40 - Discussion about Zach wearing a kilt on the AT (disclaimer: disturbing visuals). 00:51:29 - Tell us about day 3 (weather, gear). 00:58:25 - Tell us about day 4 (burn area, ubering, town day). 01:05:47 - Tell us about day 5 (Desolation Wilderness, hiking with friends vs. alone). 01:12:30 - Tell us about day 6 (Tahoe City). 01:15:57 - Any other notable food things? 01:19:27 - Did you have vitamins and supplements? 01:23:04 - Discussion about weight and muscle. 01:26:55 - Tell us about day 7 (snow, cold). 01:30:22 - How did you get to the trail? 01:32:55 - Where does it rank among other shorter thru-hikes you’ve done? 01:34:04 - Would you recommend the TRT to first-time long distance hikers? 01:35:24 - How was this experience different now that you’re a father?  01:36:54 - Is it worth traveling across the country as someone from the East Coast? 01:37:47 - Anything you would have done differently? 01:38:41 - How long was your longest food carry? 01:39:35 - Did you have any knee pain and if so, how did you alleviate it? 01:39:52 - Did you have any trouble navigating? 01:41:00 - Any poop stories? 01:44:28 - What’s the next hike for a now-dad? SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda Badger's Tahoe Rim Trail Gear List Hiker Rescued from Presidential Traverse on Saturday Has Died by Kelly Floro Paul’s Poop Story 5 Star Review Healing Your Hole with Zach and Chaunce [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by RTIC, we are joined by Mickey aka The Virtual Sherpa. The Virtual Sherpa runs a successful website and youtube channel dedicated to sharing tips, trail overviews, and more from some of his favorite trails around Colorado and the greater Southwest. We chat about what some of the most underrated 13,000 ft peaks are in Colorado, and why they might be even better than many of the state's 14ers, some of his favorite hikes without hoards of people, his philosophy on gatekeeping and responsibly promoting trails, and much more. We wrap the show with a backpacking trip in Zion National Park that deserves to be on your bucket list, a Q&A touching on a range of subjects including but not limited to good hiking spots for late fall, what life is like with a budding toddler, the scent of tent sex, and more. RTIC Outdoors: Use code “backpacker” for 10% off orders over $50 at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Point6: Use code “point6trek” for 30% off at point6.com. [divider] Interview with Mickey aka “Virtual Sherpa” The Virtual Sherpa Website The Virtual Sherpa Youtube Channel The Virtual Sherpa Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:40 - QOTD: At what age do people start consuming more Tums than Starbursts? 00:09:19 - Introducing Mickey aka “Virtual Sherpa” 00:09:37 - Mickey’s Shit Story 00:12:42 - Tell us your backpacking and peak bagging resume. 00:14:30 - Discussion about trail and ultrarunning. 00:15:33 - What’s harder, training for an Ironman or training for a 100-mile run? 00:19:29 - How fast are you? 00:20:55 - Give us some background on how the website started.  00:22:39 - Tell us about your preference with 14ers versus 13ers. 00:24:32 - Tell us why you loved living in Chicago if you hate people. 00:26:20 - Tell us about the 13er you did over Memorial Day? 00:27:15 - Fuck Mary Kill: peak bagging, CT section hikes/backpacking, trail running 00:28:40 - Tell us about the evolution of the website and Youtube channel. 00:31:32 - How do you feel about the conflict between exposing trails via the internet and avoiding people while hiking? 00:34:23 - Why does someone need to work hard to find a spot? 00:35:50 - Discussion about keeping spots secret, public land, and gatekeeping. 00:41:22 - How would you describe your audience and what are the most common questions you get? 00:44:10 - What are your top 3 favorite 14ers and top 3 least favorite 14ers? 00:46:58 - What are your favorite and least favorite 13ers? 00:48:35 - What are your top 3 secret spots? 00:51:20 - Discussion about fear and anxiety about the mountains. 00:53:19 - Do you have a preference between the blog or the Youtube channel? 00:55:52 - Have you asked your friend why there’s a story before every recipe? 00:57:21 - What is a border-crossing expedition? 00:58:43 - Do you have any highlights from exploring Utah? 01:02:23 - Discussion about National Parks, crowds, and timing hikes. 01:07:34 - Discussion about Canyonlands. 01:09:13 - What are your big 3 for a typical backpacking trip? 01:12:22 - What’s your typical camera setup? 01:14:40 - Tell us about your dog, taking your dog on adventures, and tips for hiking with dogs. 01:20:34 - Anything else do you want to share? 01:22:14 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The Zion Traverse: Hiking Off the Beaten Path in Utah’s Most Popular National Park by Katie Kommer Q&A 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by RTIC, we are joined yet again by our pal, Clay Bonnyman Evans, known on trail as "Pony". Pony is fresh off the New Mexico stretch of the CDT and full of hot takes, including a renewed interest in all things dealing with sex on trail, why he thinks the "brutality" of the CDT is overstated- at least through New Mexico, we learn all about Clay's new book, "Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail: A Thru-Hiking Story", and why Pony decided to do his first long distance backpacking trip sober. For those who've listened to previous interviews with Pony, you already know that conversations with him are a wild ride, this one is certainly no exception. If your children are listening to this episode, probably turn it off. We wrap the show with a detailing of the dumpster fire that is Chaunce's toilet and we do a triple crown of reasons why Zach's Tahoe Rim Trail hike will get canceled. RTIC Outdoors: Use code “backpacker” for 10% off orders over $50 at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Point6: Use code “point6trek” for 30% off at point6.com. [divider] Interview with Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” Pony's Book Pony's Instagram Pony's Website  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:53 - QOTD: How’s your toilet? 00:14:41 - Introducing Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” 00:15:40 - Discussion about sex on trail. 00:19:40 - Do you think the ratio of males and females on trail is a factor? 00:22:14 - What’s a wild story you got asking people about sex on trail? 00:32:04 - Tell us about the New Mexico section of the CDT. 00:38:45 - Discussion about water sources in New Mexico. 00:39:21 - Discussion about trail marking in New Mexico. 00:41:32 - Discussion about trail towns in New Mexico. 00:43:02 - Odd encounter stories. 00:46:45 - What wildlife did you see? 00:49:48 - Discussion about the community of the CDT. 00:52:20 - Discussion about the relative brutality of the CDT. 00:53:35 - Tell us your thoughts on snow in Colorado. 01:01:11 - Do you think people wanted to push through because of forest closures? 01:03:25 - Discussion about CDT start dates and southbounding. 01:11:15 - Discussion about the Creede cutoff. 01:18:46 - Tell us about your book writing process. 01:24:47 - Discussion about including relationship content in the book. 01:27:16 - How did you write the book so quickly? 01:32:02 - Hype for Zach’s books. 01:33:34 - What shoes do you have? 01:36:38 - Discussion about post trail activity and food. 01:37:30 - Discussion about hiking sober and Pony’s twelve step program experience. 01:43:18 - Discussion about Pony’s social personality. 01:45:56 - Did you miss drinking more or less than you expected? 01:47:18 - Pony’s story about Garmin troubles. 01:53:05 - What Pony learned from the Garmin representative. 02:00:06 - Have you used the Somewhere Labs communicator? 02:02:40 - Discussion about dead cows. 02:06:08 - Discussion about living cows and angry bull sounds. 02:10:15 - Discussion about the popularity of the CDT. 02:14:50 - Discussion about Chaunce’s age. 02:18:11 - Thanks! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Join our team! Triple Crown of reasons Zach’s Tahoe Rim Trail trip could get canceled 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by RTIC, we are joined yet again by our pal, Clay Bonnyman Evans, known on trail as "Pony". Pony is fresh off the New Mexico stretch of the CDT and full of hot takes, including a renewed interest in all things dealing with sex on trail, why he thinks the "brutality" of the CDT is overstated- at least through New Mexico, we learn all about Clay's new book, "Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail: A Thru-Hiking Story", and why Pony decided to do his first long distance backpacking trip sober. For those who've listened to previous interviews with Pony, you already know that conversations with him are a wild ride, this one is certainly no exception. If your children are listening to this episode, probably turn it off. We wrap the show with a detailing of the dumpster fire that is Chaunce's toilet and we do a triple crown of reasons why Zach's Tahoe Rim Trail hike will get canceled. RTIC Outdoors: Use code “backpacker” for 10% off orders over $50 at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Point6: Use code “point6trek” for 30% off at point6.com. [divider] Interview with Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” Pony's Book Pony's Instagram Pony's Website  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:53 - QOTD: How’s your toilet? 00:14:41 - Introducing Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” 00:15:40 - Discussion about sex on trail. 00:19:40 - Do you think the ratio of males and females on trail is a factor? 00:22:14 - What’s a wild story you got asking people about sex on trail? 00:32:04 - Tell us about the New Mexico section of the CDT. 00:38:45 - Discussion about water sources in New Mexico. 00:39:21 - Discussion about trail marking in New Mexico. 00:41:32 - Discussion about trail towns in New Mexico. 00:43:02 - Odd encounter stories. 00:46:45 - What wildlife did you see? 00:49:48 - Discussion about the community of the CDT. 00:52:20 - Discussion about the relative brutality of the CDT. 00:53:35 - Tell us your thoughts on snow in Colorado. 01:01:11 - Do you think people wanted to push through because of forest closures? 01:03:25 - Discussion about CDT start dates and southbounding. 01:11:15 - Discussion about the Creede cutoff. 01:18:46 - Tell us about your book writing process. 01:24:47 - Discussion about including relationship content in the book. 01:27:16 - How did you write the book so quickly? 01:32:02 - Hype for Zach’s books. 01:33:34 - What shoes do you have? 01:36:38 - Discussion about post trail activity and food. 01:37:30 - Discussion about hiking sober and Pony’s twelve step program experience. 01:43:18 - Discussion about Pony’s social personality. 01:45:56 - Did you miss drinking more or less than you expected? 01:47:18 - Pony’s story about Garmin troubles. 01:53:05 - What Pony learned from the Garmin representative. 02:00:06 - Have you used the Somewhere Labs communicator? 02:02:40 - Discussion about dead cows. 02:06:08 - Discussion about living cows and angry bull sounds. 02:10:15 - Discussion about the popularity of the CDT. 02:14:50 - Discussion about Chaunce’s age. 02:18:11 - Thanks! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Join our team! Triple Crown of reasons Zach’s Tahoe Rim Trail trip could get canceled 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by RTIC, we are joined yet again by our pal, Clay Bonnyman Evans, known on trail as "Pony". Pony is fresh off the New Mexico stretch of the CDT and full of hot takes, including a renewed interest in all things dealing with sex on trail, why he thinks the "brutality" of the CDT is overstated- at least through New Mexico, we learn all about Clay's new book, "Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail: A Thru-Hiking Story", and why Pony decided to do his first long distance backpacking trip sober. For those who've listened to previous interviews with Pony, you already know that conversations with him are a wild ride, this one is certainly no exception. If your children are listening to this episode, probably turn it off. We wrap the show with a detailing of the dumpster fire that is Chaunce's toilet and we do a triple crown of reasons why Zach's Tahoe Rim Trail hike will get canceled. RTIC Outdoors: Use code “backpacker” for 10% off orders over $50 at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Point6: Use code “point6trek” for 30% off at point6.com. [divider] Interview with Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” Pony's Book Pony's Instagram Pony's Website  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:53 - QOTD: How’s your toilet? 00:14:41 - Introducing Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” 00:15:40 - Discussion about sex on trail. 00:19:40 - Do you think the ratio of males and females on trail is a factor? 00:22:14 - What’s a wild story you got asking people about sex on trail? 00:32:04 - Tell us about the New Mexico section of the CDT. 00:38:45 - Discussion about water sources in New Mexico. 00:39:21 - Discussion about trail marking in New Mexico. 00:41:32 - Discussion about trail towns in New Mexico. 00:43:02 - Odd encounter stories. 00:46:45 - What wildlife did you see? 00:49:48 - Discussion about the community of the CDT. 00:52:20 - Discussion about the relative brutality of the CDT. 00:53:35 - Tell us your thoughts on snow in Colorado. 01:01:11 - Do you think people wanted to push through because of forest closures? 01:03:25 - Discussion about CDT start dates and southbounding. 01:11:15 - Discussion about the Creede cutoff. 01:18:46 - Tell us about your book writing process. 01:24:47 - Discussion about including relationship content in the book. 01:27:16 - How did you write the book so quickly? 01:32:02 - Hype for Zach’s books. 01:33:34 - What shoes do you have? 01:36:38 - Discussion about post trail activity and food. 01:37:30 - Discussion about hiking sober and Pony’s twelve step program experience. 01:43:18 - Discussion about Pony’s social personality. 01:45:56 - Did you miss drinking more or less than you expected? 01:47:18 - Pony’s story about Garmin troubles. 01:53:05 - What Pony learned from the Garmin representative. 02:00:06 - Have you used the Somewhere Labs communicator? 02:02:40 - Discussion about dead cows. 02:06:08 - Discussion about living cows and angry bull sounds. 02:10:15 - Discussion about the popularity of the CDT. 02:14:50 - Discussion about Chaunce’s age. 02:18:11 - Thanks! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Join our team! Triple Crown of reasons Zach’s Tahoe Rim Trail trip could get canceled 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by RTIC, we are joined yet again by our pal, Clay Bonnyman Evans, known on trail as "Pony". Pony is fresh off the New Mexico stretch of the CDT and full of hot takes, including a renewed interest in all things dealing with sex on trail, why he thinks the "brutality" of the CDT is overstated- at least through New Mexico, we learn all about Clay's new book, "Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail: A Thru-Hiking Story", and why Pony decided to do his first long distance backpacking trip sober. For those who've listened to previous interviews with Pony, you already know that conversations with him are a wild ride, this one is certainly no exception. If your children are listening to this episode, probably turn it off. We wrap the show with a detailing of the dumpster fire that is Chaunce's toilet and we do a triple crown of reasons why Zach's Tahoe Rim Trail hike will get canceled. RTIC Outdoors: Use code “backpacker” for 10% off orders over $50 at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Point6: Use code “point6trek” for 30% off at point6.com. [divider] Interview with Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” Pony's Book Pony's Instagram Pony's Website  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:53 - QOTD: How’s your toilet? 00:14:41 - Introducing Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” 00:15:40 - Discussion about sex on trail. 00:19:40 - Do you think the ratio of males and females on trail is a factor? 00:22:14 - What’s a wild story you got asking people about sex on trail? 00:32:04 - Tell us about the New Mexico section of the CDT. 00:38:45 - Discussion about water sources in New Mexico. 00:39:21 - Discussion about trail marking in New Mexico. 00:41:32 - Discussion about trail towns in New Mexico. 00:43:02 - Odd encounter stories. 00:46:45 - What wildlife did you see? 00:49:48 - Discussion about the community of the CDT. 00:52:20 - Discussion about the relative brutality of the CDT. 00:53:35 - Tell us your thoughts on snow in Colorado. 01:01:11 - Do you think people wanted to push through because of forest closures? 01:03:25 - Discussion about CDT start dates and southbounding. 01:11:15 - Discussion about the Creede cutoff. 01:18:46 - Tell us about your book writing process. 01:24:47 - Discussion about including relationship content in the book. 01:27:16 - How did you write the book so quickly? 01:32:02 - Hype for Zach’s books. 01:33:34 - What shoes do you have? 01:36:38 - Discussion about post trail activity and food. 01:37:30 - Discussion about hiking sober and Pony’s twelve step program experience. 01:43:18 - Discussion about Pony’s social personality. 01:45:56 - Did you miss drinking more or less than you expected? 01:47:18 - Pony’s story about Garmin troubles. 01:53:05 - What Pony learned from the Garmin representative. 02:00:06 - Have you used the Somewhere Labs communicator? 02:02:40 - Discussion about dead cows. 02:06:08 - Discussion about living cows and angry bull sounds. 02:10:15 - Discussion about the popularity of the CDT. 02:14:50 - Discussion about Chaunce’s age. 02:18:11 - Thanks! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Join our team! Triple Crown of reasons Zach’s Tahoe Rim Trail trip could get canceled 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by RTIC, we are joined yet again by our pal, Clay Bonnyman Evans, known on trail as "Pony". Pony is fresh off the New Mexico stretch of the CDT and full of hot takes, including a renewed interest in all things dealing with sex on trail, why he thinks the "brutality" of the CDT is overstated- at least through New Mexico, we learn all about Clay's new book, "Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail: A Thru-Hiking Story", and why Pony decided to do his first long distance backpacking trip sober. For those who've listened to previous interviews with Pony, you already know that conversations with him are a wild ride, this one is certainly no exception. If your children are listening to this episode, probably turn it off. We wrap the show with a detailing of the dumpster fire that is Chaunce's toilet and we do a triple crown of reasons why Zach's Tahoe Rim Trail hike will get canceled. RTIC Outdoors: Use code “backpacker” for 10% off orders over $50 at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Point6: Use code “point6trek” for 30% off at point6.com. [divider] Interview with Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” Pony's Book Pony's Instagram Pony's Website  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:53 - QOTD: How’s your toilet? 00:14:41 - Introducing Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” 00:15:40 - Discussion about sex on trail. 00:19:40 - Do you think the ratio of males and females on trail is a factor? 00:22:14 - What’s a wild story you got asking people about sex on trail? 00:32:04 - Tell us about the New Mexico section of the CDT. 00:38:45 - Discussion about water sources in New Mexico. 00:39:21 - Discussion about trail marking in New Mexico. 00:41:32 - Discussion about trail towns in New Mexico. 00:43:02 - Odd encounter stories. 00:46:45 - What wildlife did you see? 00:49:48 - Discussion about the community of the CDT. 00:52:20 - Discussion about the relative brutality of the CDT. 00:53:35 - Tell us your thoughts on snow in Colorado. 01:01:11 - Do you think people wanted to push through because of forest closures? 01:03:25 - Discussion about CDT start dates and southbounding. 01:11:15 - Discussion about the Creede cutoff. 01:18:46 - Tell us about your book writing process. 01:24:47 - Discussion about including relationship content in the book. 01:27:16 - How did you write the book so quickly? 01:32:02 - Hype for Zach’s books. 01:33:34 - What shoes do you have? 01:36:38 - Discussion about post trail activity and food. 01:37:30 - Discussion about hiking sober and Pony’s twelve step program experience. 01:43:18 - Discussion about Pony’s social personality. 01:45:56 - Did you miss drinking more or less than you expected? 01:47:18 - Pony’s story about Garmin troubles. 01:53:05 - What Pony learned from the Garmin representative. 02:00:06 - Have you used the Somewhere Labs communicator? 02:02:40 - Discussion about dead cows. 02:06:08 - Discussion about living cows and angry bull sounds. 02:10:15 - Discussion about the popularity of the CDT. 02:14:50 - Discussion about Chaunce’s age. 02:18:11 - Thanks! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Join our team! Triple Crown of reasons Zach’s Tahoe Rim Trail trip could get canceled 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to by RTIC, we are joined by Lauren Capone.  In addition to being an accomplished triathlete and runner herself, Lauren holds a Master of Science in Applied Nutrition and works as a Functional and Integrative Health Practitioner at Flatirons Integrative Health & Nutrition in Boulder, CO.  Our conversation covers a ton of ground on all things nutrition and health for backpacking and beyond, including why people end up gaining the weight they lose on a backpacking trip so quickly post-trail (and what can be done to prevent that), the metabolic effects of long distance endurance exercise, how to know if you're getting the right amount of calories during your hike, her thoughts on eating keto, vegan, or paleo on trail, what supplements a backpacker should consider using, how to stay properly hydrated on trail, and much more.  Simply put, you will walk away from this interview with a ton of useful information.  Get the notepad ready. RTIC Outdoors: Use code “backpacker” for 10% off orders over $50 at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “thetrek10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  [divider] Interview with Lauren Capone Flatirons Integrative Health and Nutrition Lauren's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:14 - Introducing Lauren 00:06:13 - How did you get into endurance sports? 00:08:16 - Tell us about the Ironman. 00:10:53 - At what point did you do your first full Ironman? 00:13:24 - What are the qualifying metrics for the Kona Ironman? 00:15:00 - Tell us the highlights and stats from your Kona race. 00:17:59 - Did you mentally prepare in addition to physically prepare? 00:19:22 - Tell us more about the trail running you do now. 00:20:22 - Tell us your educational background as it relates to nutrition. 00:22:38 - How should someone think about food before a half-year backpacking trip? 00:24:27 - What should people think about in terms of macronutrients or overall calorie intake? 00:26:20 - Do you think there's an advantage to starting a trail with a little extra body weight? 00:27:43 - What should people think about caloric intake during the trail?  00:29:45 - Is there anything magical about eating every hour? 00:31:00 - Do you have a rule of thumb for daily caloric intake? 00:32:18 - How does someone figure out their BMR? 00:35:40 - What characteristics should someone look for to know if they’re getting enough energy on trail? 00:41:19 - Would you advise against intermittent fasting while hiking a long trail? 00:43:24 - Tell us about macronutrients as they relate to backpacking. 00:46:40 - Do you have a rough starting spot for planning macronutrients? 00:47:39 - Should people rely on their cravings as a guide or be more targeted? 00:50:20 - Discussion about protein sources and intake on trail. 00:54:41 - Are there symptoms of someone getting sufficient carbs but insufficient protein? 00:55:56 - Do you have thoughts on diets like keto, paleo, vegetarian, or vegan? 01:00:16 - How should people think about weight loss on trail? 01:04:10 - Should someone aim for a surplus of calories while eating in town? 01:09:19 - What happens physiologically when you’re in a chronic calorie deficit? 01:12:35 - Why do females commonly lose their cycles when doing endurance sports? 01:14:32 - What would other symptoms of caloric deficit look like for males? 01:17:14 - Is there a rough guide for someone trying to monitor their weight? 01:18:07 - Why do you think people often put back on weight they lost while hiking? 01:22:57 - What are your thoughts on prioritizing strength training after a thru-hike? 01:26:05 - Do you work with athletes with eating disorders? 01:30:23 - Discussion about weight maintenance after a thru-hike. 01:31:52 - Do you have a rough guide to staying hydrated on trail? 01:34:35 - Discussion about adding salt to water. 01:36:56 - Do you think that electrolyte testing makes sense? 01:39:03 - Discussion about hyponatremia and ways to avoid it. 01:43:04 - What are the most common hydration mistakes made by endurance athletes? 01:44:02 - Do you recommend omega-3 supplements? 01:45:52 - What are your thoughts on CBD? 01:46:29 - What else do you recommend related to anti-inflammatory supplements? 01:48:30 - Thoughts on the chronic use of ibuprofen? 01:49:48 - Thoughts on protein supplements? 01:51:10 - Thoughts on a general multivitamin? 01:52:50 - Thoughts on sleep aids or recommended sleep supplements? 01:55:12 - Do you have thoughts on higher doses of magnesium? 01:56:26 - Do you have thoughts on dehydrated green juice? 01:57:57 - Discussion about nutrient and hormone testing. 02:02:20 - How can people work with you or Flatirons Integrative? 02:03:04 - Thank you! SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda Appalachian Trail Shelter in NJ Temporarily Closed After Bear Tried to Enter Tent by Kelly Floro [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by goodr, we are joined by more AT Hiker Trash!  This is volume II of our thru-hiker interviews from AT Trail Days 2022.  This one concludes with a trail name origin story that is borderline too insane to believe. We wrap the show with some very sad news of a hiker's tragic fall from McAfee Knob, a Triple Crown of Passive Aggressive Statements Used in Work Emails, and how Badger's TRT plans almost fell through once again, as per tradition. Goodr: Use code “backpacker15” for 15% off at goodr.com/backpacker15. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “thetrek10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Point6: Use code “point6trek” for 30% off point6.com. [divider] Interview with more current AT hikers! Time stamps & Questions 00:04:17 - QOTD: What was the highlight from your Memorial Day weekend? 00:11:10 - Interview with Take Three 00:19:29 - Interview with Ibex 00:25:32 - Interview with Nomad 00:33:10 - Interview with Turtle 00:38:09 - Interview with Pink and Flash 00:48:04 - Interview with Sweets 00:57:26 - Interview with Stove Top 01:05:55 - Interview with Dipper 01:14:47 - Interview with Fifty Cal 01:25:37 - Interview with Boston 01:31:52 - Interview with Smash SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda AT Hiker Who Fell from McAfee Knob Has Died, Authorities Confirm by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of passive aggressive statements used in work emails Mail Bag [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by goodr, we are joined by peakbagger, author, search and rescuer, and all around awesome human, Nancy East.  We go through Nancy's impressive list of thru-hikes, how she manages all the backpacking with a family who only sometimes joins her, we chat in depth about her search and rescue experiences and what advice all hikers can glean from the perspective of someone trying to rescue you, and we learn all about Nancy's book "Chasing the Smokies Moon: An audacious 938-mile hike fueled by love, loss, laughter, and lunacy". As recent guest Caet Cash put it, Nancy East is a beast. On the trail, this is 100% true.  In talking with Nancy, the opposite is the case- Nancy is one of the nicest people you'll ever encounter and we had a great time chatting with her. We wrap the show with some more highlights from Trail Days, the triple crown of board games, and that the first and biggest magazine for Backpackers is significantly scaling back its operations.  Goodr: Use code “backpacker15” for 15% off at goodr.com/backpacker15. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. [divider] Interview with Nancy East Nancy's Website Nancy's Book Nancy's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:38 - QOTD: What was your personal highlight on the last day of Trail Days? 00:16:02 - Introducing Nancy 00:16:43 - What’s the origin story of your trail name? 00:18:55 - Was that event particularly stressful since you had your kids with you? 00:19:32 - How does Chaunce know Nancy? 00:20:22 - At what point did you learn of Nancy’s legendary status? 00:21:54 - Tell us your trail resume. 00:23:56 - What advice do you have for someone who’s looking to hike the Tahoe Rim Trail? 00:26:40 - Tell us about the Bartram Trail. 00:28:37 - Tell us about the Tour de LeConte. 00:29:38 - Do you leave your pack at the top or carry it the whole time? 00:30:51 - Tell us about setting the FKT on the Tour de LeConte. 00:31:54 - Is there a strategy to which trails you go up and which trails you go down? 00:34:05 - Bloody Mary check-in. 00:35:07 - Tell us about the Foothills Trail. 00:37:10 - How old were your kids when they hiked with you and how did they like the trail? 00:39:30 - Tell us about the Four Pass Loop. 00:42:14 - Tell us about the West Highland Way. 00:44:20 - Tell us about your blog.  00:45:36 - Tell us about the Tour du Mont Blanc. 00:48:10 - Tell us about the Trans Catalina Trail. 00:53:10 - Tell us about the Wonderland Trail. 00:54:39 - Tell us about the Timberline Trail. 00:56:05 - Tell us about the Palmetto Trail. 00:59:31 - Tell us a synopsis of your new book. 01:06:35 - Tell us more about how you got into search and rescue and lost person behavior. 01:10:08 - What are some of the most memorable rescues you’ve done? 01:14:14 - What are the most common traits of lost person behavior? 01:16:30 - Do you have strong thoughts about Gerry Largay? 01:18:40 - Give us some of the highlights and lowlights of your Smokies map hike. 01:23:04 - Did you know before the hike that you would write a book about it? 01:25:49 - How did you plan the hike? 01:28:18 - What food do you pick to bring to a lost person? 01:30:13 - Has anyone flirted with you during a rescue? 01:31:02 - What’s the strategy for making kids love backpacking? 01:35:32 - What are the essential skills you’ve ensured your kids know? 01:37:30 - Are they proficient with navigation? 01:38:42 - Where can people find you? 01:39:16 - What adventures do you have coming up? 01:39:54 - Where can people find the book? 01:40:38 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Outside Ends Monthly Print Runs of Backpacker Magazine Amid Layoffs by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of board games Mail Bag 5 Star Review Dad Joke [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, and Greg Mac. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to by Goodr, we are joined by a gaggle of AT Hiker Trash.  Today's episode comes to you from Trail Days, where we go through a series of rapid fire questions with hikers who are in the midst of their 2022 AT thru-hikes.  This one is the predictable amount of chaos. We wrap the show joined alongside Mara and Leah for our favorite moments from the AT road trip, a triple crown of fast food restaurants, and a listener educates us on plant water. Goodr: Use code “backpacker15” for 15% off at goodr.com/backpacker15. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for 10% off at greenbelly.co. Interviews with current AT hikers! Time stamps & Questions 00:04:47 - QOTD: What was your favorite moment from Trail Days Day 1? 00:16:48 - Scavenger hunt discussion 00:19:21 - Interview with Painkiller 00:24:35 - Interview with Platinum 00:32:14 - Interview with El Humidor and Footloose 00:44:10 - Interview with trek blogger Sidetrack 00:51:19 - Interview with trek blogger Catchup 00:59:51 - Interview with Good Zen 01:05:20 - Interview with Catchup 01:10:05 - Interview with Mindwell 01:16:02 - Interview with Ulasidena 01:21:05 - Interview with Mary Poppins SEGMENTS Triple Crown of fast food restaurants Listener Voicemail  5 Star Review Follow Leah and Mara on Instagram! [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by Goodr, we are joined by Caet Cash.  Caet first discovered backpacking back in 2014 and has been on an absolute tear ever since.  We chat about why she prefers to hike SOBO, including some SOBO specific elements of both the AT and PCT, her insane list of peakbagging feats in the Adirondacks and southern Appalachians, redlining (aka mapping) the Smokies, and much more.  Caet also details how her backcountry goals have shifted since being diagnosed with Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, how she manages EDS, and why she thinks it's important to be vocal about this chronic condition.   We wrap the show with an overview of our AT road trip thus far including Chaunce's absurd sun burn, a triple crown of emotional high points on trail, a listener voicemail, and a listener educates us on the Philmont Poop Rating. Goodr: Use code “backpacker15” for 15% off at goodr.com/backpacker15. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for 10% off at greenbelly.co.   Interview with Caet Cash Caet's Instagram Article about Caet & the SB6K Time stamps & Questions 00:04:32 - QOTD: What’s been the best part of the road trip thus far? 00:14:53 - Introducing Caet 00:15:10 - Discussion about Caet’s trail name. 00:16:03 - What’s the origin of your trail name? 00:18:37 - How mad are you going to be about Zach’s pronunciation of Appalachian? 00:19:02 - Do you remember where you first met Zach? 00:21:07 - Tell us your backpacking resume. 00:22:45 - Tell us about the Northville Placid Trail. 00:24:26 - What’s the best season to do the Northville Placid Trail? 00:25:45 - Do most people start in Northville? 00:26:00 - What type of wildlife do you see? 00:27:05 - Have you done any of the Finger Lakes Trail? 00:27:52 - What put the Appalachian Trail on your radar and why did you choose southbound? 00:29:19 - Was your marathon pain related to your future diagnosis? 00:30:10 - Anything else you want to share from the AT? 00:32:25 - Chaunce’s story. 00:34:52 - At one point did you feel like you got into the hiking rhythm? 00:38:20 - Does any part of the trail feel hard after you’ve completed the Whites? 00:39:30 - Anything else you want to share from the CT? 00:40:36 - Tell us about connecting your footsteps on the PCT. 00:43:54 - How did you decide to go southbound on the PCT? 00:44:30 - How did you handle sleeping alone? 00:46:35 - How many times have you seen bears at night? 00:47:30 - Discussion of purism differences between the AT and PCT. 00:48:35 - When did you finish the PCT and what was the Sierra like? 00:50:15 - Tell us about what you thought of the PCT views and scenery. 00:52:02 - Do you prefer the scenery of the AT? 00:53:20 - Do you think list-making is more of a personality trait of people in the Northeast? 00:54:11 - Tell us about the South Beyond 6,000 grid. 00:55:36 - Can you give us more detail on the SB6K guidelines? 00:57:14 - What’s your strategy in accomplishing the SB6K? 00:58:14 - How do you hike all of them in a month? 00:59:25 - What are your top 3 favorite peaks from the SB6K? 01:00:49 - Tell us about the Adirondack 46. 01:02:03 - How many of the SB6K peaks are accessible from or on the AT? 01:03:03 - Have you done Mt. Rogers? 01:03:47 - If there’s no view, is the appeal strictly accomplishing the list? 01:04:20 - Has anyone else done the SB6K grid? 01:07:02 - Tell us about redlining the Smokies.  01:09:12 - How much do you have to plan for a redlining project versus winging it? 01:09:41 - Are there any resources for helping someone plan a redline? 01:10:45 - How long did it take you to redline the Smokies? 01:11:44 - Tell us about your hip injury. 01:16:01 - Tell us about Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. 01:18:19 - Have you ever dislocated your shoulder? 01:19:01 - What differentiates this disease from someone with other flexibility or hypermobility? 01:19:41 - How do you cope with or reduce chronic pain? 01:22:22 - How has EDS modified your future plans or goals? 01:24:29 - How common is EDS? 01:25:51 - What else in your lifestyle has changed to pursue your health goals? 01:27:18 - Has it been tough to recalibrate your goals? 01:28:28 - Did you ever wonder if your pain was similar to other hikers’? 01:29:58 - Would cycling be a possible activity for you? 01:31:52 - Tell us about your sister and hiking with her. 01:32:55 - What’s your big 3 these days? 01:34:14 - Hype up van life for us. 01:36:18 - What do you want to share about guiding? 01:37:12 - How did you like working with Jennifer Pharr Davis? 01:38:00 - Anything else you want to share? 01:39:08 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Woman Rescued After Falling Headfirst Into Pit Toilet Trying to Retrieve Phone by Penina Satlow Triple Crown of emotional high points on trail Listener Voicemail Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound g uy@Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by YouTube sensation, Darwin.  We learn all about Darwin's rise to fame, including the turning point from when he went from a novice content creator to a full-blown trail celebrity, his advice to aspiring YouTube trail personalities, and why he ultimately fell out of love with the platform. We also learn about Darwin's new media company, Outdoor Evolution, and the plethora of projects currently coming from OE, and what lies ahead. We wrap the show by sharing the news of a gent who's about to finish walking around the world with his pup and we opine on whether we'd rather have a boring, stupid, or ugly offspring. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for 10% off at greenbelly.co. Interview with Darwin Darwin's Youtube Channel Darwin Goodbye Trek Article + Goodbye Video Outdoor Evolution Time stamps & Questions 00:04:25 - QOTD: Would you rather have a boring, stupid, or ugly kid? 00:06:57 - BPR Announcements: The Trek’s Featured TikTok Personality  00:08:08 - Introducing Darwin 00:08:37 - What was your life pre-dirtbag adventuring? 00:09:52 - Was there one trip you saw as the tipping point to altering your lifestyle? 00:13:56 - Tell us about the timeline of leaving home. 00:14:35 - Tell us about the initial intentions of the trail. 00:16:50 - Do you think leaving the AT and returning later prepared you for future trips? 00:18:47 - When does the Youtube channel enter the picture? 00:22:46 - Was there a particular moment when the channel became something you thought you could make a career out of? 00:25:27 - Tell us about living and working in Albuquerque. 00:26:45 - What’s the strangest hobby you’ve gotten into? 00:28:20 - Tell us about owning a restaurant. 00:29:10 - Are you a big fan of the blues? 00:30:04 - What are the top three things you would never dabble in? 00:31:40 - Tell us about cycling and bike-packing. 00:36:04 - Why do you think your bike-packing videos didn’t take off? 00:36:55 - Is adventure touring more trail or more road? 00:38:58 - How is your injury affecting your upcoming plans? 00:38:33 - Do you mind if I ask how old you are? 00:40:07 - What was the next big hike after the AT? 00:41:03 - How did you like the Pinhoti Trail? 00:42:48 - What kind of miles are you usually hiking per day? 00:44:42 - How did your channel interface with your PCT hike? 00:48:50 - Discussion about the turning point in popularity for the channel. 00:52:43 - Can you elaborate on the closure you sought on the CDT? 01:00:56 - If you had any general advice to someone interested in growing a Youtube channel, what would you tell them? 01:05:24 - Did you develop a thicker skin toward internet comments as you made more videos? 01:09:08 - Tell us about Outdoor Evolution. 01:14:58 - How do you decide how to allocate your time? 01:16:45 - Tell us about the structure of OE. 01:17:55 - Do you and your wife plan to have any children? 01:21:35 - Tell us more about current OE projects. 01:26:25 - How much are you looking to fundraise for your public lands series? 01:27:36 - How big is your production team? 01:28:58 - Give us a sneak peak of each episode. 01:30:01 - Tell us about the other upcoming projects you have going on this year. 01:33:22 - Anything else you want to share? 01:35:12 - Thanks! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Tom Turcich (and His Pup) Set to Complete 7-Year Around-the-World Walk Next Month by Clay Bonnyman Evans Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail by Clay Bonnyman Evans Triple Crown of unlikely spaces where humans become savagely territorial Impromptu News Story Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Carly Moree.  Carly is a thru-hiker, the co-author of Pacific Crest Trials, an OG Writer at The Trek, entrepreneur and a long time friend.  We chat about her transition from the cushy world of finance to backpacking, her personal pitfalls of getting into a relationship on the AT, some hilarious hallucinations during her JMT FKT attempt, and learn all about her new guiding company, Rocky Mountain Hiking Company. We wrap the show with a brief overview of some of the top day hikes on the AT, some more details of our upcoming road trip, and a dad joke of the week. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for off at greenbelly.co. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “thetrek10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  [divider] Photo credit: "Stephanie Weezer" (@stephlotus_ on IG) Interview with Carly Moree Carly's Instagram Rocky Mountain Hiking Company Rocky Mountain Hiking Company Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:24 - QOTD: If you married to yourself, what would be the reason for the divorce? 00:05:54 - QOTD 2: What’s the correct amount to tip for pickup orders? 00:13:14 - BPR Announcements: Asheville Meetup at Hi-Wire Brewing May 11, 6:30pm, Trail Days: scavenger hunt, limited edition t-shirts 00:14:20 - Introducing Carly 00:16:08 - Tell us about your introduction into the world of thru-hiking. 00:18:15 - What’s your trail name origin story? 00:19:19 - Why don’t you want to date on trail anymore? 00:20:39 - What attracts you to someone while on trail? 00:22:48 - Tell us about getting Lyme disease. 00:25:44 - Where did you go after the AT? 00:26:41 - Tell us about the epiphany you had about the direction your career was going. 00:28:33 - Give us an example of a crazy moment from your finance job. 00:32:04 - Tell us about the transition from your job to the AT? 00:34:27 - Tell us about deciding to hike the PCT after the AT? 00:35:30 - Did you get any grief for skipping Pennsylvania? 00:36:50 - Discussion about big mile days on the PCT. 00:37:49 - What changes did you make when deciding to date a second person? 00:38:52 - Is there anything else you want to share from the PCT? 00:41:01 - Do you feel like you were drawn to Jennifer Pharr Davis for any other reasons? 00:44:13 - Discussion about co-authoring Pacific Crest Trials. 00:47:25 - Tell us how co-authoring the book has helped your dating life. 00:47:58 - Discussion about Reddit AMA. 00:49:38 - What was your life like after the PCT? 00:51:42 - Why did you only do Mount Sanitas? 00:52:35 - Tell us about starting your PCT FKT attempt. 00:54:44 - Was it weird that you were both going for the FKT? 00:55:42 - Tell us about transitioning from the PCT FKT to the JMT FKT? 00:57:48 - The FKT was a really important moment in your life, right? 00:58:53 - Doesn’t going through a breakup during lockdown suck? 01:01:00 - Discussion about training for the Grand Canyon run. 01:01:55 - What’s your hiking pace? 01:02:11 - What’s your aggressive hiking pace? 01:03:04 - Discussion about training for the JMT FKT. 01:04:33 - Did you plan the hike around a good weather window? 01:06:24 - Tell us the fun facts of the hike. 01:07:05 - What are the hallucinations and did you realize you were hallucinating? 01:14:03 - How do you know what you thought was real was actually real? 01:16:02 - Discussion about the end of the FKT attempt. 01:17:26 - Why do you think you couldn’t feel anything until you decided to end the attempt? 01:17:58 - Discussion about getting off the trail. 01:20:38 - Discussion about getting lost and deciding to press SOS. 01:22:39 - Discussion about the SAR suitors. 01:26:18 - You had to pay for the SOS rescue? 01:27:13 - What did the rescue cost? 01:27:55 - You seemed way too comfortable with hallucinating - were you scared? 01:30:18 - Do you have any advice for the Tahoe Rim Trail? 01:32:41 - Anything else from the Tahoe Rim Trail? 01:33:40 - Tell us about your company. 01:35:40 - When did you start the company? 01:37:11 - Who is the target market for your guided hikes? 01:38:37 - How many trips have you guided so far? 01:39:08 - What are some of the challenges of running a guiding company? 01:40:28 - Who’s the other guide? 01:42:25 - When is your Death Valley trip? 01:43:25 - What has been the biggest surprise in starting the company? 01:45:20 - How does hiring and paying guides work? 01:47:25 - Is it just a three person team right now? 01:48:48 - Tell us about the workshops. 01:50:00 - Tell us about the coaching element of the company. 01:53:30 - Anything else we should know about Rocky Mountain Hiking Company? 01:54:05 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Top 5 Appalachian Trail Day Hikes with Unforgettable Views by Amber and Joshua Niven Dad Joke of the Week Roan Mountain, Ghosts, and Supernatural Stories Mail Bag 5 Star Review Book Update [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we are joined by author, mountaineer, and keynote speaker, Dr. Jon Kedrowski.  Dr. Jon's list of accomplishments are staggeringly long, including sleeping at the summit of all the Colorado 14'ers, multiple Everest summits, playing D-1college basketball at Valparaiso, guiding and befriending Mike Posner, and much more.  We catch Dr. Jon very off-guard with a well-timed, fuck, marry, kill, we learn about the standout geography features of each of the Colorado mountain ranges, and what it's like to encounter death on Everest. We wrap the show with a triple crown of minor injuries that hurt like fuck and we bring back a listener favorite segment — would you rather.   Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for off at greenbelly.co. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Interview with Dr. Jon Kedrowski Dr. Jon's Instagram Dr. Jon's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:04:41 - QOTD: What are you most excited about for Trail Days? 00:11:13 - BPR Announcements: Trail Days Road Trip, Asheville Meetup May 11, 6:30pm, subscribe to be alerted of new BPR episodes! 00:14:30 - Introducing Dr. Jon Kedrowski 00:15:50 - Tell us your mountaineering origin story. 00:19:08 - Were you the youngest person to hike all of Colorado’s 14’ers? 00:21:25 - How did you get to trailheads during high school? 00:22:24 - Tell us about being a geography professor. 00:24:20 - Was it tough to pursue mountaineering before it was a money-making profession? 00:27:30 - What’s it like to be a part of March Madness? 00:28:23 - What’s the overlap between being a collegiate basketball player and a successful mountaineer? 00:29:29 - For a backpacker, what’s an applicable mantra or philosophy you go by? 00:32:20 - Tell us about the CDT and CT from a geographic perspective. 00:34:48 - How do you compare the San Juans and the Collegiate Peaks? 00:36:41 - If you had to pick one Colorado mountain range for the rest of your life’s adventuring, which would it be? 00:38:20 - Fuck, Marry, Kill: Colorado mountain ranges. 00:40:24 - Do you actually sleep at the top of a mountain? 00:42:19 - What do you do if there’s a storm while you’re sleeping? 00:43:38 - Your tent got struck by lightning? 00:45:38 - Do you lead clients up Everest now? 00:46:56 - Are you in Mike Posner’s new music video? 00:48:39 - Tell us a wild story from hiking with Mike Posner? 00:50:31 - What’s considered good water once you become a snob about it? 00:52:00 - Did you ever not want to get in the water on video? 00:53:03 - Is there one place that stood out to you related to stargazing? 00:56:21 - Do you ever follow established routes or mainly find your own? 00:59:30 - Let’s talk about Everest! 01:01:02 - What’s it like when there’s a tragedy on Everest? 01:03:20 - What went wrong in 2012? 01:08:02 - What’s the atmosphere like when you return to the high camp? 01:08:35 - What’s your personal mental state like when you have to leave someone behind? 01:10:40 - Is there any mental prep work for encountering people who will perish on Everest? 01:13:20 - At one point will Everest become a trail of bodies? 01:15:58 - Is there part of you that gets freaked out going back year after year? 01:17:32 - What would a training program for Everest look like? 01:19:14 - What training could someone do in the gym? 01:21:21 - Tell us about mountaineering gear.  01:23:22 - How much do those sleeping bags and down suits weigh? 01:24:03 - What does your pack typically weigh? 01:25:43 - What size is your pack? 01:26:20 - Tell us about your “no off days” philosophy. 01:27:40 - Are you physically preparing every single day or are you risking burnout? 01:28:42 - How old are you? 01:31:28 - Have you thought about retiring for two weeks like Tom Brady? 01:33:02 - Is part of you wanting to do a calendar Triple? 01:34:05 - What’s your go-to junk food? 01:34:23 - Get a prize for buying Dr. Jon’s new book! 01:36:34 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Authorities Seek Help Identifying Body Found on Springer Mountain by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of minor injuries that hurt like fuck Would You Rather? Mail Bag 5 Star Review Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Hazel Platt known on trail as Platypus.  In addition to thru-hikes of the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Northwest Trail, Hazel also serves as the Volunteer Engagement Associate for the PCTA.  Hazel is also a queer/trans hiker, going by the he/they pronouns.  We go deep in this interview, learning about Hazel's emotional journey of coming out as a trans hiker during the height of lockdown in the less than welcoming environment of a conservative community in West Virginia.  We also learn about the differences of Hazel's thru-hikes, where they had come out as queer prior to the AT, and trans shortly before embarking on the Pacific Northwest Trail.  We chat about Hazel's love for off-trail hiking, including the highlights and lowlights of navigating on the PNT.  We conclude the interview with an overview of Hazel's work at the PCTA, the importance volunteers play for the Pacific Crest Trail, and what the future beholds for the non-profit. We wrap the show with a check-in from MG, Backpacker Radio's Sponsored hiker, as she gets ready for her SOBO AT thru-hike, we learn about a gentleman hiking the AT carrying a leafblower, and a half-baked patent-pending about how to improve nalgenes. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for off at greenbelly.co. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Interview with Hazel “Platypus” Platt Hazel’s Instagram Pacific Crest Trail Association Website PCTA Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:45 - QOTD: How was the Denver Hiker Trash meetup? 00:13:05 - BPR Announcements: Trail Days Road Trip, Asheville Meetup May 11, 6:30pm 00:15:15 - Introducing Hazel 00:15:45 - What’s your backpacking resume? 00:16:42 - What caused you not to finish the Long Trail? 00:17:19 - Did you feel in over your head starting the AT? 00:18:10 - Any notable stories from the AT? 00:19:40 - What was the inspiration to become sober? 00:20:40 - What would you like to share about your coming out process? 00:23:04 - What was the reception like in West Virginia or online? 00:25:35 - Can you walk us through what it was like when the pandemic started for you? 00:29:12 - Tell us about your tech career prior to hiking. 00:33:08 - Did the cloud around gender dysphoria lift at all after coming out? 00:35:35 - Can you speak to some of the common cultural challenges you’re inundated with? 00:40:43 - What comes up for you when someone gets your pronouns wrong? 00:41:47 - What was your experience and reception like on the Pacific Northwest Trail? 00:46:06 - Was there a difference in your hiking experience from the AT to the PNT? 00:48:50 - What was it like going from the community of the AT to the isolation of the PNT? 00:51:04 - Did you see any grizzlies? 00:51:42 - Tell us about the time you got lost. 00:56:54 - Do you know how much more of the trail has been developed in recent years? 00:58:43 - Can you speak to the community you found on trail compared to what you expected? 01:01:24 - Are there places you’d suggest someone look for community prior to hiking? 01:04:15 - Discussion about history. 01:10:40 - Tell us a story that encapsulates the bigger picture history of the AT. 01:13:30 - Tell us a fun fact about plants. 01:15:21 - Tell Zach the story about George Washington, land surveying, and the Fairfax line. 01:20:14 - Tell us about your role with the PCTA. 01:21:20 - Can you tell us more about the role volunteers play for the PCTA? 01:22:56 - Can you speak to some of the biggest challenges of working with volunteers? 01:26:37 - What is your vision for more inclusive programs and messaging within the PCTA? 01:30:18 - How do you see yourself accomplishing your own goals within your work? 01:32:22 - Do you have any parting thoughts to share? 01:36:55 - Thank you! SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda The Colorado Trail Guide: Logistics by Kelly Floro Man Hiking the AT with a Leafblower: Mascot Hikers and Why They Do It by Bloodhound Trail News What is a hike? Patent Pending One Minute Gear Review Plant, Child, and Pupdate Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Nika "Early Bird" Meyers.  Nika is a backpacking badass.  Not only is she a triple crowner, but Early Bird has set a pair of speed records, including the unsupported FKT on the Long Trail and the self-supported FKT on the Colorado Trail, which she set last year with a time of 9 days 14 hours, and 19 minutes (keep in mind, this takes most people a full month).  We get a full chronology of Nika's backpacking career, when and where the idea of attempting FKTs first entered her world, her background in competitive skiing, the most important lesson she's learned when attempting thru-hikes, her incredible artwork, and much more. We wrap the show with a series of Elise-centric segments (as she's sitting in for Chaunce today), including how she's preparing, what gear she's using, how she's budgeting for the CDT, and much more.  We also chat about some 4-6 day backpacking trips in the West to put on your bucket list, how thru-hiking has changed our lives, and we get a surprise visit from Jabba at the end of our interview. [divider] LISTEN Download this episode. [divider] Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  [divider] Interview with Nika “Early Bird” Meyers Nika's Website Nika's Instagram Nika's Art Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:11 - QOTD: What are your hiking plans for this summer? 00:07:27 - BPR Announcements: Trail Days Road Trip, Asheville Meetup May 11, 6:30pm 00:08:30 - Introducing Nika 00:08:56 - How did you get your trail name? 00:10:33 - What’s relevant in your background before you started thru-hiking? 00:13:51 - Did you know right away after the Long Trail that you would do more long trails? 00:15:35 - What kind of animals use the Long Trail as a migratory corridor? 00:16:34 - If you got to list one sport on your tombstone, what would it be? 00:17:23 - Take us from the Long Trail in 2012 to the PCT in 2014. 00:19:03 - How did you manage without your parent’s blessing for starting the PCT? 00:22:00 - How quickly did you hike the Long Trail and the PCT? 00:24:50 - How did you get interested in FKTs? 00:26:27 - Anything else you want to highlight from the PCT? 00:26:56 - What did you do after the PCT? 00:28:25 - What’s harder, a 50-mile day or dealing with high school kids? 00:29:34 - How did you get into environmental education to begin with? 00:32:11 - What was your lifestyle like living in the Cascades? 00:32:55 - Discussion about snow on the PCT. 00:33:40 - What’s your snow hiking technique? 00:35:08 - Did you do a lot of peaks in the Cascades? 00:36:08 - Are you an adrenaline junkie? 00:36:55 - Tell us about the CDT. 00:37:20 - What’s your pack weight like for these hikes? 00:38:54 - What else do you want to share about the CDT? 00:41:54 - Did you feel the same way going from the CDT to AT that you did PCT to CDT? 00:45:07 - What are the biggest differences between those two trails? 00:47:10 - What’s your take on the AT as your last Triple Crown trail? 00:49:02 - Was it difficult to find a way to hike by yourself? 00:51:00 - Was this pink blazing or banana blazing? 00:52:24 - Tell us your poop story. 00:57:41 - Anything notable from the Rim2Rim2Rim? 00:58:23 - What’s the elevation change in the Grand Canyon? 00:58:40 - What’s the R2R2R FKT? 01:00:28 - How fast did you hike the Arizona Trail? 01:00:47 - When did you get the idea of setting FKTs? 01:02:56 - How did you bridge the gap between regimented schedules and having fun? 01:05:56 - How do you plan an FKT without planning daily mileage? 01:08:14 - What was your sleep regimen like? 01:09:00 - Discussion about talking with other hikers while pursuing an FKT. 01:11:22 - Did you utilize caffeine at all? 01:13:42 - Did your appetite ever get back to normal during the Colorado Trail FKT? 01:15:12 - Did you crave anything during an FKT? 01:15:55 - Do you think this will change your food planning for future FKTs? 01:16:42 - Is any part of an FKT Type I fun? 01:18:02 - Do you get anxious about hiking in the middle of the night? 01:19:11 - What’s the time difference between the Long Trail and Colorado Trail FKTs? 01:21:58 - Do you get antsy while waiting for storms to pass? 01:22:48 - Did finishing in better condition have more to do with your training or the terrain? 01:24:08 - Tell us about your art. 01:27:37 - Tell us about the watercolor t-shirt. 01:29:10 - If you could pick one piece to display in your house, which would it be? 01:30:13 - Are a lot of pieces commissioned? 01:30:45 - Where can people catch up with you? 01:31:43 - What’s next for you? 01:32:54 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Nika ‘Early Bird’ Meyers Sets a New Self-Supported Colorado Trail FKT by Owen Eigenbrot How Has Thru-Hiking Changed Your Life? Hikers Share Their Stories (Part 1) by Penina Satlow Pre-Trail Q&A with Elise Avenza Maps Triple Crown of non-obvious thru-hike prep things Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Linnea Delucchi, known on trail as Otter.  Otter is a 2017 PCT thru-hiker, has a Masters in Adventure Education, and now serves as the Assistant Director at New Treks, an organization that teaches outdoor education to underprivileged youth.  This convo covers a lot of ground, including the cognitive effects of spending time in nature and hiking specifically (and how wearing headphones could potentially negatively impact that), we get an overview of some Denver-based non-profits focused on the outdoors- including an in-depth work of Linnea's organization, and Linnea blesses us with an all-time poop story from her PCT thru-hike.  We wrap the show with a rapid fire Q&A with The Trek's new intern, Rachel, we do a triple crown of things people complain about as they get older, and Chaunce reveals herself as an Oscars slap truther.   Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for off at greenbelly.co. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.    Interview with Linnea “Otter” Delucchi Linnea’s Instagram New Treks Donate to New Treks Time stamps & Questions 00:04:20 - QOTD: Where were you when the news broke of Will Smith slapping Chris Rock? 00:09:25 - BPR Announcements: Asheville Meetup Hi-Wire Brewing RAD Beer Garden, May 11, 6:30pm 00:11:25 - Introducing Linnea 00:12:40 - Tell us your outdoor background. 00:14:23 - If you had to pick one outdoor sport, what would you pick? 00:15:10 - How long have you lived in Colorado? 00:15:54 - Tell us about graduate school. 00:16:37 - What direction did you think your career would go as an undergraduate? 00:17:28 - What’s the craziest thing about the brain? 00:18:40 - What’s the difference between people who hike with headphones and those who don’t? 00:19:28 - Does it matter what you’re listening to? 00:20:27 - Tell us about the study design. 00:22:23 - If you were going to run the study again, what variables would you change? 00:24:03 - What do you know about studies related to thru-hiking? 00:26:25 - Discussion about the impacts of technology in nature. 00:27:50 - Did you make a conscious decision not to listen to technology on the PCT? 00:30:15 - Tell us more about the brain. 00:33:50 - What do you think the cognitive benefits of a thru-hike are? 00:36:20 - How would you convince someone like Chaunce to get out in nature more? 00:39:25 - Do you think adrenaline junkies have less of a fear response? 00:42:25 - What turned you on to the PCT in the first place? 00:43:47 - Was backpacking a hard sell for you given the other sports you like? 00:45:42 - Do you have any crazy injury stories? 00:48:37 - Are there sports you won’t try? 00:49:35 - Tell us your poop story. 00:55:06 - Tell us about New Treks. 00:57:28 - What’s your role at New Treks? 00:58:20 - Do you notice different ways that the kids you work with interact with the outdoors? 01:01:18 - How do you get the kids excited for the activities? 01:02:40 - How much time do you spend with each group? 01:05:05 - How often do you see kids get really into the activities? 01:06:55 - Does one story stand out as the most meaningful? 01:09:22 - Is it tough to maintain a positive attitude? 01:12:03 - How long has New Treks been in existence? 01:12:20 - How do you start something like New Treks? 01:13:42 - Can you explain the funding side of New Treks? 01:17:04 - Tell us about the other Denver-based nonprofits you wrote about. 01:24:22 - Did you learn about these organizations recently or already know about them? 01:26:12 - Do you have advice for anyone interested in getting into outdoor education? 01:27:54 - What’s next for you? 01:28:48 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Eight Denver-Based Nonprofits Working in the Outdoors by Linnea Delucchi  7 Badass Woman Thru-Hikers Who Inspire Me to Hit the Trails by Anna McKinney Triple Crown of things people start to complain about as they get older Mail Bag New Intern Q&A 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by former Trek Vlogger, Sophia "Wheelz" Garber.   Wheelz was a member of the AT NOBO turned NOGO class of 2020, due to the pandemic- duh.  Her shot at redemption didn't have to wait too long, as Sophia ended up completing her mission to hike the AT the very next year.   We learn what it was like to be on trail during the early days of the pandemic, how it felt to deal with social media trolls when trying to decide whether to stay or go (and the challenge of even getting off trail), the role Sophia's recently deceased friend played in her motivation to hike, and how thru-hiking compared to Sophia's 4,000-mile bikepacking trip just a couple years prior. Things fall off the rails a bit in the segments, as we answer a couple of listener voicemail questions, do a triple crown of thru-hiker no-no's, and a listener accuses Chaunce of having stinky privates.   Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Interview with Sophia “Wheelz” Garber Sophia's Instagram Be the Sun Design Co Instagram Be the Sun Design Co Website First Descents Website Sophia’s Hiker? I Barely Know Her Shirt Time stamps & Questions 00:04:39 - QOTD: Are there more doors or wheels in the entire world? 00:10:41 - BPR Announcements: Asheville Meetup Location May 11, 6:30pm 00:11:55 - Introducing Sophia 00:13:48 - Tell us about your cross-country bike adventure. 00:15:12 - What group did you bike with? 00:17:02 - Awkward silence. 00:17:12 - What would you pick between being on foot or being on a bike? 00:20:28 - Did you know anyone going into the bike ride? 00:21:07 - What if someone wants to quit? 00:21:57 - What kind of roads did you bike on? 00:22:15 - Was there any carryover between your biking gear and your hiking gear? 00:23:55 - Were there trail names on the bike ride? 00:24:35 - What would your next long bike ride be? 00:25:08 - Did the ride feel rushed at all? 00:26:04 - At what point did you realize you wanted to do the AT? 00:29:40 - Tell us about starting the AT on March 15, 2020. 00:30:38 - Discussion about getting off trail. 00:33:40 - Tell us about being on the receiving end of social media comments? 00:36:25 - What were the vibes on trail before you got off? 00:39:02 - Did you know right away that you’d re-attempt the trail the next year? 00:41:02 - Tell us more about Cristal and fundraising for the Ulman House. 00:46:38 - What led you to working for the Ulman House? 00:49:37 - Have you heard of the program First Descents? 00:50:18 - What was your fundraising goal? 00:53:21 - Having started the trail twice, did you prepare any differently the second time? 00:54:01 - What did it feel like to do horrible climbs twice at the start of the AT? 00:55:12 - What was your experience vlogging on trail? 00:56:40 - What was your editing practice and how long did editing take? 00:58:10 - Did you ever get weird comments? 01:00:31 - How often did you hike alone? 01:03:00 - Tell us your poop story. 01:07:30 - Tell us about aqua blazing. 01:11:55 - What’s another not boring story? 01:14:35 - Tell us about your woodburning side hustle. 01:16:14 - Where can people find your site? 01:17:49 - Did you go to school for art? 01:18:20 - Discussion about stick and poke tattoos. 01:19:40 - Tell us about your upcoming hiking plans. 01:21:10 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Shaming Chaunce Trek Propaganda Thru-Hiking with a Partner? Save Weight (and Money) by Sharing Gear by Kelly Floro Listener Voicemails Triple Crown of thru-hiker no-no’s Mail Bag 5 Star Review Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Peter Bergman.  In a nutshell, Peter is the ultimate wildcard.  His hiking resume, which includes a completed section hike of the PCT and a cross country hike from his front door in Denver to Mt. of the Holy Cross- doesn't even begin to tell his story.  We learn about the life of an art professor, some of most ridiculous projects, which toes the line between art and prank, and his latest release, PaCT, a series of projects related to his two-part section hike of the PCT, the first chunk as a 23-year-old, and the rest at twice the age of 46.  Chaunce and Badger were thoroughly entertained during this one, you will be too. We wrap the show with a special triple crown, Elise edition, some surprise birthday wishes to Chaunce - including a voicemail that had us LMAO'ing, and much more. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Bedrock Sandals: Head to bedrocksandals.com today! [divider] Interview with Peter Bergman An Address: Institute of Sociometry is PRESS Website is PRESS Instagram PaCT Website  PaCT Report Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:38 - QOTD: What is something every junk drawer must have in order to be considered a proper junk drawer? 00:09:03 - BPR Announcements: Denver Hiker Meetup April 5, New Intern 00:13:30 - Introducing Peter 00:13:36 - What’s your elevator pitch? 00:14:53 - Tell us about being a professor. 00:15:54 - What percentage of your students would you say are garbage people? 00:16:58 - What is your favorite course to teach? 00:17:57 - What’s the most memorable art project you’ve seen while teaching? 00:20:20 - What’s your take on the Van Gogh exhibit? 00:20:51 - What’s your take on Meow Wolf? 00:21:51 - What’s your overall experience as an artist? 00:27:18 - Would you say there’s a theme among Cabriolet owners? 00:28:33 - Tell us about the postcards. 00:31:49 - How did you not get shot? 00:33:28 - How do you differentiate between art and entertainment? 00:33:58 - What’s the name of the documentary? 00:34:38 - What was it like during/in the pre-Jackass, Southern California, skate-punk scene? 00:36:20 - What about skateboarding created that culture? 00:38:17 - What’s your take on Jackass? 00:38:57 - Discussion about free library project. 00:43:38 - Are you currently in the midst of any pranks? 00:51:15 - Tell us about the PCT section in 1996. 00:55:10 - Discussion about deciding to finish the trail in 2019. 00:56:06 - Discussion about hike from Denver to Mt. Holy Cross. 00:56:40 - How much of that route was off-trail vs. on roads? 00:56:58 - Discussion about returning to the PCT in 2019. 00:57:17 - How do Peter and Elise know each other? 00:58:25 - How did you end up with two feet of Dylan’s hair around your neck? 00:59:25 - Discussion about the hair collection. 01:02:16 - Discussion about the time capsule. 01:08:10 - Discussion about getting off trail in 1996. 01:12:14 - With your exciting hobbies off-trail, how did you keep yourself entertained on trail? 01:16:06 - As someone who is a professor, how would you assign an on-trail project to hikers as if they were students? 01:19:27 - Walk us through the flipbook, zine, and book. 01:21:25 - Discussion about book printing. 01:24:20 - Discussion about the time between 1996 and 2019. 01:25:09 - How did your dad respond to the book? 01:25:34 - How many books are left? 01:25:53 - Discussion about badgers. 01:28:29 - Tell us about the snowstorm. 01:34:20 - Discussion about completing the trail in 2019. 01:37:12 - What were the primary differences between the two hikes? 01:41:43 - What was your gear like in 1996? 01:43:57 - What’s your poop story? 01:49:22 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Matthew “Odie” Norman to Retire from Hiker Yearbook Project by Penina Satlow Triple Crown of Elise Chaunce’s Birthday Well-Wishes 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyonthedrums Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Andy Laub.  Andy is a thru-hiker, documentarian, cinematographer, director, editor, visual effects artist...basically all things under the sun dealing with making videos.  His work has been featured on the Discovery Channel, National Geographic, BBC World, Amazon Prime, Hulu & PBS World Channel.  His first trail documentary, As It Happens, has more than a million views on YouTube.  We chat all about his backpacking career, what goes into a professional video production, juggling his adventures while being a parent of two youngsters, and we go deep on his latest project, THRU, a six-part series featuring his 2018 thru-hike of the Pacific Northwest Trail.  Whether you nerd out on video stuff or not, I guarantee you'll enjoy this chat.  It's a fun one.  We wrap the show with a more formal announcement of the winner of the Backpacker Radio Sponsorship, we get a fan submission patent-pending about drinking sunscreen, and do a triple crown of thru-hiking phrases, clichés, and acronyms.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Bedrock Sandals: Head to bedrocksandals.com today!  Interview with Andy Laub Watch THRU here @thru_film on Instagram @laub.films on Instagram andylaubfilms.com @pjoart on Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:06:22 - QOTD: Do you Wordle? 00:10:12 - BPR Announcements: Trail Days Road Trip & Meetup Location 00:14:56 - Introducing Andy Laub 00:15:20 - Where’d you get into backpacking?  00:17:42 - What was your AT start date? 00:18:35 - Did you start at the stars? 00:19:41 - When you’re stuck, do you think like a film narrator? 00:20:01 - Were you in front of or behind the camera? 00:20:56 - Discussion of on-camera hand gestures and film angles 00:22:14 - Is there a bubble in February on the AT? 00:23:05 - What research did you do pre-trail? 00:24:30 - Tell us about meeting your first trail friend. 00:25:33 - Tell us about The Dusty Camel. 00:27:02 - Tell us about your time at the Discovery Channel. 00:28:45 - What’s Ian’s background at this point? 00:29:14 - Was the idea for the PCT film first or the idea to hike? 00:29:25 - Tell us about the PCT in 2011. 00:32:10 - What was your film equipment and how heavy was it? 00:32:35 - How do you decide who films what? 00:34:06 - Is it tough to capture both the highs and the lows? 00:36:53 - Is it harder for you to be in front of or behind the camera? 00:38:19 - What doors did As It Happens open for you? 00:39:16 - How did the National Geographic Society project come about? 00:41:05 - How did you go from As It Happens to the production value of THRU? 00:43:22 - What other equipment do you have on trail? 00:44:39 - Discussion about the cinematography and camera gear of THRU.  00:47:48 - What was the secret videography weapon Chaunce brought on the AT? 00:48:28 - What’s the process of making a documentary? 00:51:22 - Are you recording your flashbacks while hiking? 00:52:18 - Are you directing all of the footage on trail? 00:53:40 - Do you decide what you want the scenes to look like while hiking? 00:57:09 - How do you keep everyone on the same page? 01:00:16 - Do you need to have a lot of patience or social awareness? 01:03:07 - How did you put the group together? 01:04:44 - What packs did you use? 01:07:47 - Discussion about the group dynamic. 01:09:40 - Discussion about square tarps and gear weight. 01:10:03 - Is there a way to lighten heavy camera equipment? 01:11:27 - What are your three top tips to take something amateur and make it look high class? 01:14:34 - If you could go back and critique As It Happens, what feedback would you give? 01:16:16 - Are there ever moments you wish you could have captured on camera? 01:19:25 - What is THRU? 01:22:46 - Did you have any crazy grizzly encounters or oh shit moments? 01:27:25 - Do death-defying moments hit differently now that you have kids? 01:31:37 - Who does the graphics in THRU? 01:33:20 - What’s the dumbest thing you did on the hike? 01:34:12 - Discussion about the PNT’s trail types, usage, and season/weather window. 01:37:11 - Did you miss any miles? 01:37:56 - What’s your full trail resume? 01:38:25 - What are some of the films you made between trails? 01:41:56 - How do you maintain your positivity in the face of climate change? 01:43:34 - Discussion about climate change. 01:48:22 - What’s your dream project? 01:51:30 - Were you on the fence about bringing a drone? 01:53:45 - Discussion about the future of the PNT and value of the National Scenic Trails. 01:56:54 - How can people watch THRU? 01:58:43 - Will there be a season 2? 02:01:25 - Lobster facts! 02:04:17 - Discussion about trees. 02:06:00 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Tell Us Your Story: How Has Thru-Hiking Changed Your Life? Meet the Winner of the 2022 Backpacker Radio Sponsorship! Listener Voicemail Triple Crown of hiking catchphrases/lingo 5 Star Review Trail Days [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyonthedrums Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are running back the Appalachian Trail panel.  This time, your favorite cinnamon connection are working in tandem to share some more of their top, trail-tested advice for hiking the AT.  This includes how to prevent against the biggest threat presented by the Trail, the right resupply strategy (or lack thereof), how to train for the Trail, and much more. We wrap the show with a triple crown of traits you'd want in a hiking partner and we chat about some of our favorite down jacket options.    Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  Bedrock Sandals: Head to www.bedrocksandals.com today!  AT Panel with Chaunce & Badger Time stamps & Questions 00:03:48 - QOTD: How do you feel about mint chocolate chip ice cream?  00:10:40 - BPR Announcements: WE ARE GOING TO TRAIL DAYS!  00:13:10 - Badger Tip #1: Permethrin your clothes!  00:19:34 - Chaunce Tip #1: Give shelters a shot  00:23:47 - Badger Tip #2: Dry out your gear 00:25:21 - Don’t worry about tidying your pack 00:26:52 - Chaunce Tip #2: Train vertically  00:28:34 - Alternatives to stair stepper machines  00:30:38 - Why running isn’t enough training for the AT  00:31:47 - Badger Tip #3: Don’t pre-plan resupplies on the AT Food planning for the A.T.   00:40:22 - Chaunce Tip #3: Instead of researching sights, research trail towns and history  00:44:29 - Be sure to have a seasoned hiker give you a shake down  00:49:15 - Panel wrap up SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  Best down jackets for thru-hiking by Kelly Floro Join The Trek Newsletter (see bottom of webpage)  Triple Crown of traits you want in a hiking partner  Listener Voicemails  5 Star Review  Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by David "AWOL" Miller.  If you know anything about the AT, then that name is likely already familiar to you as AWOL is the author of not one but TWO of the most popular books related to the Trail, including Miller's Memoir, "AWOL on the Appalachian Trail", and "The AT Guide" which AWOL has since sold.  We talk all about Miller's writing process, the incredible amount of work that went into bringing The AT Guide to life, why he decided to sell the guidebook to Anti Gravity Gear, what he's been up to since, and much more We close out the show with a chaotic series of segments, including a triple crown of grocery store aisles followed by listener voicemails which somehow devolves into a conversation about the Mason Dixon line of sperm potency.  But first.      Good To-Go: Use code “bpr25” HEREto save 25% on your next order.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Bedrock Sandals: Head to www.bedrocksandals.comtoday!  Hike the InternationalAppalachian Trail, Ulster-Ireland: Go to www.iatulsterireland.comto learn more about this beautiful hike!  Interview with David “AWOL” Miller sponsored by Good To-Go  Time stamps & Questions 00:05:32 -QOTD: What’s the worst recent injury you’ve sustained?And… What is your weird pet peeve?  00:10:02 - BPR Announcements: Badger Sponsorship Results, Internship Apps have closed, & Trail Days  00:12:45 - Introducing David “AWOL” Miller  00:13:05 - How much trail press have you done?  00:13:44 - Who were you before you became “AWOL”? 00:15:06 - What was your hiking experience prior to hiking the AT?  00:16:02 - Were you in Florida prior to your AT hike?  00:16:42 - Are there any mountains in Florida?  00:18:00 - What was the official title of your guide?  00:18:27 - Any favorite stories from your journey?  00:19:53 - What was the AT culture like in 2003?  00:21:56 - Did you plan on writing your memoir prior to the hike?  00:23:06 - Did you save the newspaper clippings? 00:23:17 - Did you use your articles in the memoir?  00:24:33 - Do you have a specific writing methodology?  00:25:40 - Was it challenging to open up in your memoir?  00:26:43 - What were your thoughts on “A Walk in the Woods”?  00:28:10 - Is your book the second most popular of AT books?  00:30:48 - What was the writing process like?  00:35:33 - How did the partnership with Amazon work?  00:37:14 - What goes into a good guide book?  00:40:20 - What are the logistical steps to make a guide happen? 00:41:31 - Are you using a digital mapping system? 00:42:20 - How did you approach all the changes that happen to the trail? 00:44:08 - What does it take to get the non-technical information 00:46:56 - What percentage of the year was dedicated to guide research? 00:47:37 - Tell us about selling the guidebook  00:49:28 - How did you see the book evolve?  00:52:48 - Tell us about your other hobbies (golfing, ballroom dancing, etc.)  00:54:09 - Future book topics  00:55:20 - What’s your exercise routine like these days?  00:57:23 - What does the new digital guide look like?  00:59:55 - What’s your take on what the next big thing will be for trail guides?  01:03:05 - What are you focusing on now these days?  01:04:52 - Thank you!  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  ZOLEO Satellite Communicator Reviewby Carl Stanfield Rough Start to Your Thru-Hike? It Could Be Because of Your Diet by Terry “Finder” Rice  Voicemail Segment: Leave us one here!  Triple Crown of grocery store aisles  Mail Bag  Thank you again, Good To-Go! Try Zach's favorite, Mushroom Risotto,and use code "bpr25" at checkout for 25% off. [divider] Check out our sound guy@Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes(and please leave us a review)!  Find us onSpotify,Stitcher, andGoogle Play. Support us on Patreonto get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio FollowThe Trek,Chaunce,Badger, and Trail Correspondentson Instagram. FollowThe TrekandChaunceon YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are talking all things Appalachian Trail (drink?).  Everybody's favorite honorary third co-host, Jabba, joins us in a roundtable of tips we would offer someone looking to take on a long distance backpacking trip on the AT (drink).  We touch on budgeting tips, ways to reduce your pack weight, advice for ensuring you complete your goal, insight on how to transition post-trail, and much more.   We round out the show with a triple crown of dance moves, some fast facts from the AT Class of 2021, and a fun announcement about the cinnamon connection's very own visit to the AT this year (drink).    Good To-Go: Use code “bpr25” HERE to save 25% on your next order.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Hike the International Appalachian Trail, Ulster-Ireland: Go to www.iatulsterireland.com to learn more about this beautiful hike!  AT Panel with Chaunce, Badger, & Jabba  Time stamps & Questions 00:05:08 - QOTD: What is the correct thermostat temperature for sleeping?  00:11:13 - BPR Announcements: We’ll be at Trail Days!  00:12:23 - Introducing the AT Panel  00:13:28 - Badger’’s Tip #1: For NOBOs, earlier start dates may be favorable but southern Appalachia weather may not agree 00:21:05 - AT hiking experience  00:22:13 - Chaunce’s Tip #1: Avoid the town experiences in the beginning, so you can slow down later on the trail  00:25:04 - Jabba’s Tip #1: Have some type of game-plan for post-trail life  00:31:06 - Badger’’s Tip #2: Mentally prepare yourself for the hike  00:34:15 - Did your “Why?” ever changed on a hike?  00:34:54 - What was your “why” for the PCT in comparison to the AT?  00:44:06 - Chaunce’s Tip #2: Keep a stricter budget  00:44:57 - How do we feel about hiker “Go Fund Me” pages?  00:54:44 - Jabba’s Tip #2: Figure out your footwear  01:02:53 - Badger’’s Tip #3: You don’t need as much water on the AT  01:11:45 - Chaunce’s Tip #3: Strategize your days around the rain, when convenient  01:14:11 - If you’re going to hike the AT, get Verizon!  01:15:25 - Let’s family/friends know when you won’t be having service  01:16:47 - Jabba’s Tip #3: Experience the social bubble & allow yourself to pivot  01:19:20 - Panel wrap-up, thanks Jabba!  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  TLDR: Summarizing the 2021 Appalachian Trail Thru Hiker Survey (Plus Hikers’ Favorite Sections of the Trail) by Joal & Jenny  Triple Crown of dance moves  5 Star Review “Love is Blind” Debrief   [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, Andrew Skurka returns!  Again.  In studio.  Not that you need any convincing to continue listening, but this chat starts normal and devolves into Chaunce tricking him into saying that he'll do sexual things a bug.  We also talk about the new normal of backpacking in the West, we learn about the Skurka Scholarship, and we get a detailed overview of the backcountry bidet butt cleaning technique.  This one has it all. We do a triple crown of reality tv shows, share the sad news of the passing of a beloved PCT trail angel, and give a last call for our internship application.  [divider] LISTEN Download this episode. [divider] Good To-Go: Use code “BPR25” HERE to save 25% on your next order. Free shipping on orders over $100.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  Hike the International Appalachian Trail, Ulster-Ireland: Go to www.iatulsterireland.com to learn more about this beautiful hike!  [divider] Interview with Andrew Skurka  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:41 - QOTD: What is everyone binging on Netflix right now?  00:12:24 - Reminders: Internship opportunity  00:14:16 - Introducing Andrew Skurka  00:14:57 - What has changed for you since 2021?  00:17:20 - How many minutes a mile do you average? 00:17:58 - How does your passion for running compare to your thru-hiking? 00:19:18 - What does your off season look like?  00:19:50 - Are you wrecked after one of these marathons? 00:21:05 - How many miles are you averaging a week?  00:21:42 - How do you break up your miles throughout the week?  00:22:23 - Why do you prefer road running? 00:22:58 - Has running dulled your excitement for long distance hiking?  00:25:51 - Do you use the van on guiding trips?  00:27:00 - The Guiding Business  00:28:52 - Is there a limit to your trips?  00:30:37 - What makes a good guide?  00:31:40 - What becomes stressful during the trips?  00:33:11 - What happened in 2014?  00:36:42 - Tell us about the guiding services you offer  00:37:30 - What’s the most difficult aspect of a guiding business? 00:38:27 - What does the Olympic Mountains trip have that others don’t?  00:41:21 - What factors do you take into account for trip cancellations?  00:42:54 - Do you think forest closures will becomes more and more common?  00:44:50 - Do you think strict fire-starting rules will be put into place?  00:45:40 - How do you feel about the condition of the West?  00:47:00 - Where are you house hunting?  00:49:42 - What’s your advice for CDT and PCT SOBOs? 00:51:45 - Do you think hikers need to strengthen snow skills?  00:52:24 - Which of your new trips are you most excited about?  00:53:11 - What do you look for when you scout out a new trip?  00:53:48 - Do you plan bailouts?  00:54:19 - What are the deadlines for applying for your trips?  00:54:45 - How many applications do you commonly receive?  00:55:36 - Do you use waitlists? 00:57:17 - How do you weed out applicants?  00:59:50 - Guide Hiring  01:02:21- What got you interested in birding?  01:04:32 - Skurka Scholarship  01:05:43 - Diversity of guiding trips  01:09:13 - Skurka Scholarship deadline - Feb 21st  01:10:48 - Thoughts on gear innovation  01:16:30 - What are your thoughts on inReach Mini 2?  01:22:22 - What other categories have innovation opportunities?  01:24:26 - What’s your least favorite flying insect?  01:25:24 - Fuck, Marry, Kill: Insect version  01:27:36 - Anything else gear-related? 01:29:45 - State of content-websites  01:32:26 - How do affiliate links?  01:34:45 - What’s the future of content websites?  01:36:49 - Voicemail Listener Questions - Backcountry bidet etiquette  01:46:59 - Listener Question - High Sierra in a high snow year 01:47:18 - Listener Question - High route development 01:48:38 - Listener Question - Who does Skurka follow in the outdoor space?  01:50:48 - Find Andrew Skurka: www.andrewskurka.com  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  (Almost) Every PCT Town, Ranked by Taylor Bell Sympathies to the Jerry Dinsmore family  Triple Crown of reality tv shows  5 Star Reviews  Thank you to our Title Sponsor, Good To-Go, Zach’s favorite meals on trail. Place your order at www.goodto-go.com and use code “BPR25” at checkout for 25% off!  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Ryan Bunting, known on trail as Constantine.  Constantine may already be a familiar name, as he was recently featured on a Trek Propaganda segment about becoming the youngest person to hike all 11 National Scenic Trails at the age of 27 years.  He put a bow on the achievement by setting the Fastest Known Time on the North Country Trail alongside his girlfriend, Magpie.   Seeing that this is a Valentine's Day episode, we go deep into the origin story of Constantine and Magpie's relationship, we get a rundown on which were his favorite and least favorite National Scenic Trails and why, and a hilariously awkward poop story.   We wrap the show with an almost announcement of the winner of the Backpacker Radio Sponsorship winner, the triple crown of national scenic trails, and the odd ways in which Chaunce and I are attempting to stay fit. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Good To-Go: Use code “BPR25” HERE to save 25% on your next order.  [divider] Interview with Ryan “Constantine” Bunting  Time stamps & Questions 00:07:33 - QOTD: Are you training for hiking season yet?  00:19:08 - Reminders: The BPR Sponsorship recipient has been chosen & internship opportunity reminder 00:24:10 - Welcome Constantine!  00:24:52 - Do you know how many miles you’ve accrued?  00:25:20 - When did you get started hiking?  00:26:00 - What are the National Scenic Trails?  00:27:28 - When did you fall in love with the long trails?  00:28:37 - Did you hike them in the traditional order?  00:28:45 - Did you know you wanted to do all 11? 00:30:25 - Did you know you could become the youngest to complete them all?  00:31:18 - How many people have completed them all?  00:33:20 - Tell us about the Potomac Trail 00:35:45 - Fuck, Marry, Kill: PCT, AT, or CDT 00:36:00 - What 3 scenic trails would you get rid of?  00:37:33 - What’s the rest of the chronology?  00:39:37 - How many miles was that in 2021? 00:41:44 - What’s your take on the Florida Trail?  00:42:50 - How many alligators did you see?  00:44:08 - What made you swear off the state of Alabama in 2019?  00:45:28 - Any other details on the Potamac hike?  00:46:45 - Did you end up doing 35s on these trails?  00:47:40 - What food issues did you have on trail?  00:47:46 - What did you change with your food strategy?  00:51:05 - Given you experience, how did the transition to the NCT go?  00:52:07 - Did you hike the trail westbound?  00:52:23 - When did you start the NCT?  00:53:17 - Does snow deter you?  00:55:52 - Did you have a satellite communicator with you during the hypothermia scare?  00:56:40 - Do you recall what you were wearing?  00:56:56 - Walk us through the hypothermic experience  01:00:08 - The Magpie love story  01:12:55 - Can you compare your relationship on trail vs. off trail? 01:14:47 - What were the highlights of the NCT?  01:17:39 - Have you been able to pinpoint the timeframe between hiking and getting the bug to hike again?  01:18:36 - What do you enjoy about the non-stop hiking?  01:20:30 - Do you go out of your way to talk to locals?  01:21:44 - How are you able to fund these hikes?  01:22:50 - What’s your company? ElevenSkys 01:23:45 - How do you go about starting an apparel company?  01:26:26 - What’s your go-to pair of shorts?  01:26:38 - Tell us your 2022 hiking plans 01:29:30 - The Donut Story  01:31:48 - Constantine’s Poop Story  01:33:58 - Find Constantine here: ElevenSkys, Instagram  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  Hearing Gunfire on the AT Near Hawk Mountain? Don’t Worry, That’s Normal Trevor Spikes Program to Ship Discounted Microspikes to PCT Hikers in Memory of Trevor Laher  Triple Crown of National Scenic Trails  Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are diving into all things Pacific Crest Trail related. This is another panel featuring our hero and fellow PCT hiker, Elise Ott aka Sauce, and in it we share our best advice in regards to training, logistical prep, gear advice, ideal start dates, pacing, dealing with extreme temperatures, and much more. If you're planning a long-distance trek on the PCT, whether a section hike or a thru, you will glean valuable insights from this one. We wrap the show with a slew of segments in celebration of Backpacker Radio turning four years old, including some trivia, a listener voicemail, Trek propaganda, and more. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek” here.  Save 20% at Organifi with code "BACKPACKER" PCT Panel with Chaunce, Badger, & Sauce Time stamps & Questions 00:05:45 - QOTD: What’s been your most iconic moment of Backpacker Radio over the past 4 years?  00:12:13 - Reminders: Elise’s Announcement & Internship Opportunity  00:18:30 - Mara thinks she’s fired  00:27:35 - Introducing the PCT Panel  00:21:16 - Chaunce’s Tip #1: No bulking seasons  00:38:00 - Elise’s Tip #1: Don’t over plan  00:43:27 - Zach’s Tip #1: 3 steps to prep  00:49:20 - Zach’s Southbound Advice: It’s all about timing 00:52:38 - Having a good diet on-trail 00:53:52 - Zach’s healthy hiking food recommendations  00:59:48 - Chaunce’s Tip #2: Shipping food on PCT  01:04:50 - Packing out morale-boosting snacks/drinks  01:08:15 - Elise’s Tip #2: PCT start dates  01:14:20 - Elise’s snow experience in September  01:20:30 - Zach’s Tip #2: Heat Training  01:29:37 - Electrolytes in the desert  01:32:00 - Gear Setups  01:32:14 - What tents did everyone use?  01:43:33 - What’s everyone’s sleep system?  02:00:40 - What backpacks did everyone use?  02:10:40 - Is the BPR crew outdated with their gear?  02:21:00 - Voicemail Question: What’s your opinion on PCT resupplying?  02:30:38 - Elise’s advice for a snow year: collaborate with a group SEGMENTS BPR’s Top 10 Cities  Countries w/ 1 BPR Download  4 Year Trivia Answers Dragonfly = 4 weeks, Houseflies = 4 months, Guinea Pig = 4 years Who is the 4th richest American? Larry Ellison of Oracle What hike did Jabba complete in 2018? Colorado Trail You have $4 for a meal, what do you buy? 4-Themed Trek Propaganda Articles Four Reasons Why I Will Thru-Hike the A.T. at Forty by Heather Oconnell Four Things I Will Never Hike Without Again by Claire Dumont Our Colorado Trail Gear Lists: The Big Four by Kate Houston 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Rolf Gunnar Asphaug.  Rolf's adventuring career started in 1987 when he quit his cushy job as a lawyer, and set off to backpack from Tuscon, Arizona to Portland, Oregon on a route he devised using a Rand McNally road atlas.  We of course go deep into this epic journey- we also learn all about the Colorado Mountain Club, for which Rolf used to serve as the organization's president, his time volunteering for Jefferson Country Open Space and a number of Colorado state parks, and we touch on Rolf's Colorado Trail thru-hike last year at the age of 62.    We wrap the show with a triple crown of pizza toppings, and we introduce a pair of new segments- what's in a trail name, and listener voicemails! But first.    Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 20% off your entire purchase. [divider] Interview with Rolf  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:06 - QOTD: What’s the most uncommon/odd meal you’ve had on trail?  00:07:24 - Reminders: BPR Sponsorship & Internship Opportunity  00:10:58 - Welcome Rolf!  00:11:29 - What was your career prior to getting into backpacking?  00:15:40 - The start of Rolf’s cross country adventure  00:16:11 - Did you save up for this trip? 00:19:40 - Did you avoid the interstates?  00:20:15 - What was hitchhiking like in 1987?  00:22:10 - Was Zion covered in the Atlas?  00:23:33 - Raisins  00:24:10 - How did you navigate through Zion National Park? 00:24:45 - Post-Zion Events  00:26:22 - Did you ever stay in hotels/motels?  00:27:25 - How did people react when you told them what you were doing?  00:28:09 - Passing through Yosemite  00:29:44: - How do you coordinate meeting up with people on this trip? Pay phones? 00:30:40 - Did you have a specific time frame? 00:31:17 - Did you have awareness of the PCT at that time?  00:32:00 - Which way did you go up Mt. Whitney? 00:32:26 - Did you have the entire route written up?  00:33:11 - Were permits needed yet?  00:33:43 - Did Half Dome have cables then?  00:36:24 - Do you remember your route through San Francisco?  00:38:22 - Did you hike in boots?  00:38:54 - Long Peak Trail Runners 00:40:06 - Was this life changing for you?  00:40:36 - Did you think you were going back to being a lawyer after this? 00:42:18 - Journaling a thru-hike  00:43:17 - How did you path shift after this hike?  00:46:55 - Colorado Outward Bound  00:53:03 - Rolf’s Trophies  00:53:45 - Rolf getting creative in court  00:57:34 - How do you think Denver is doing with mass transit?  01:00:35 - Rolf’s volunteering experience  01:01:48 - How did you meet your wife?  01:06:04 - Tell us about the Colorado Mountain Club  01:08:11 - What did you do as President?  01:10:12 - What other classes does the CMC offer?  01:11:45 - What does the membership go for?  01:12:56 - How long were you President for CMC?  01:15:26 - Volunteering for Jefferson County, CO  01:18:15 - What is bark patrol?  01:21:54 - How much trash do you pick up on average?  01:22:31 - Cleanliness of CO parks  01:25:34 - How many people are employees vs. volunteers?  01:27:05 - Do you know what parks have foxtails?  01:28:02 - In which park are you most likely to see mountain lions?  01:32:00 - Tell us about your Colorado Trail experience  01:38:18 - Durston Gear  01:40:22 - Chaunce hiking with Harper 01:42:24 - Leo Fact from Zach 01:43:24 - What was your sobering experience at Cascade Creek? 01:49:20 - Thank you, Rolf! 01:50:58 - Find Rolf on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  8 Things I’m Excited to Do to Attempt a More Sustainable Thru-hike by Rachel Shoemaker Triple Crown of Pizza Toppings  What's in a Trail Name? BPR Voicemails  URL: sayhi.chat/bpr 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Derick Lugo known on trail as Mr. Fabulous.  Although it's not all that unheard of for someone to attempt the Appalachian Trail with minimal backpacking experience, Brooklyn-born Derick Lugo had never even been on a day hike before arriving to Springer Mountain for his NOBO AT thru-hike attempt.  Not only did he complete the trail, but Derick has gone on to write a book, start a podcast, and has done many public speaking events. This is a lively chat, Derick is an orb of energy, and we laughed our way through. We wrap the show with a look at what footwear the AT class of 2021 rocked (and how the perennial is starting to lose some ground), a triple crown of dinosaurs (including some interesting facts about the dildosaurus), and the FULL details of the Backpacker Radio Sponsorship. [divider] LISTEN Download this episode. [divider] Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 20% off your entire purchase. [divider] Interview with Derick Lugo  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:47 - QOTD: How was your break?  00:11:01 - Reminders: Backpacker Radio Sponsorship  00:14:02 - Welcome Derick Lugo!  00:14:36 - How much did the long taxi ride cost you? 00:15:40 - What was your life like before the AT? 00:16:51 - Zach meeting Derick  00:23:17 - What sparked the idea of hiking the AT?  00:25:08 - Did you borrow any gear?  00:29:01 - What’s your take on Bill Bryson’s “A Walk in the Woods”?  00:31:22 - Keeping books relevant  00:32:15 - The Unlikely Thru-Hiker book cover  00:35:10 - Is Chaunce confused?  00:35:50 - Were you athletic prior to your thru-hike?  00:39:42 - What type of miles were you putting up in the early days of your hike?  00:41:00 - Were other hikers helpful to you? What was the community like?  00:43:28 - How did you get your trail name, Mr. Fabulous?  00:49:38 - Throwback to “Fancy Feast”  00:50:08 - Did you maintain your hygiene through the hike?  00:52:28 - How far were you taking your hygiene practices?  00:55:37 - Any other funny beginner hiker stories?  00:59:36 - Did any parts of city life prepare you for the trail?  01:02:05 - Did you do stand up at the comedy clubs you worked at?  01:02:22 - Any good bars along the hike?  01:03:13 - Any comedy bits you can share with us?  01:04:27 - Did you reduce your 40lb pack over time?  01:07:48 - The Carly Moree connection  01:08:28 - Tell us about your podcast  01:16:50 - Will Smith  01:18:40 - Derick praises Backpacker Radio 01:19:56 - Are you working on Season 2 of your podcast?  01:20:45 - Derick is hiking the CDT next!  01:21:38 - CDT partnership announcement  01:24:27 - Are you bringing your dog?  01:25:31 - How will the experience mesh with the podcast? 01:27:27 - Long Trail vs. CDT  01:28:55 - Where can people find you and your book?  Derick Lugo Instagram Derick Lugo Website  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  The Top Footwear on the Appalachian Trail: 2021 Thru-Hiker Survey Triple Crown of Dinosaurs  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we are joined by Jack Jones better known on trail as Quadzilla.  Quadzilla has packed a lot of life into his time on this earth- he is a bonafide renaissance man with a great outlook on life.  We chat about his time in the army, running a CrossFit gym in his late 20s, serving as a wildland firefighter, participating in several multi-day meditation retreats, backpacking thousands of miles including the triple crown, we touch on his bikepacking, and Chaunce and I lather him with an uncomfortable amount of praise on those giant, beautiful quads.  Needless to say, this conversation covers a lot of ground- we certainly enjoyed it a lot and hope you do too. We wrap the show with a triple crown of our new year's resolutions, we give a shoutout to the youngest person to complete all eleven National Scenic Trails, and the details for the Backpacker Radio Sponsorship are officially announced.  2022 thru-hikers, you can enter today.  [divider] Listen   Download this episode. [divider] IndexIQ: You no longer need to choose between supporting the environment and investing in your financial future. Visit clnretf.com today! Be sure to read IndexIQ information below before investing.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 20% off your entire purchase. [divider] Interview with Jack “Quadzilla” Jones Time stamps & Questions 00:04:07 - QOTD: Is chewing gum a suitable substitute to brushing your teeth? 00:05:41 - Reminders: Backpacker Radio Sponsorship  00:07:30 - Introducing Jack “Quadzilla” Jones 00:07:36 - Is Quadzilla your trail name?  00:09:09 - What’s the recipe for good quads?  00:09:26 - Are the good quads genetic? 00:10:22 - Is your muscular make up a help or hindrance to hiking?  00:12:12 - What is your trail resume?  00:13:49 - Does lyme disease stay in your blood?  00:16:54 - Did you do the full Oregon Coast Trail? 00:18:08 - Do you commonly do impromptu thru-hikes?  00:19:05 - Have you tallied all your hiking miles? 00:19:41 - What was your inspiration to start thru-hiking? 00:20:49 - After almost 6 years of hiking, do you ever get lonely?  00:24:52 - What was your life like before finding thru-hiking?  00:28:55 - What is the retreat like?  00:31:58 - How long does that clarity last you? 00:33:43 - Can you give us a summary of the meditation type?  00:34:59 - How do you practice your meditation on trail?  00:37:11 - Tell us about your earlier years in the Army?  00:39:55 - Do you hold any resentment over the way your dad passed?  00:44:05 - Do you feel your time in the Army influenced your interest in hiking?  00:45:21 - Do you feel like you battle aggression issues?  00:46:06 - What do you attribute your centeredness to?  00:46:56 - What is the Deadman Peaks Trail Race?  00:49:44 - Were you pacing yourself towards the end of the CDT?  00:51:33 - We need to hear about you smashing a watermelon between your legs!  00:54:26 - Did you all eat the smashed watermelon? 00:54:44 - Are you a runner outside of hiking? 00:55:58 - Zone 2 Cardio  01:00:23 - How did you get into Wildland Firefighting?  01:04:03 - How does the intensity compare to bootcamp?  01:07:45 - How do you deal with fear on the job?  01:09:18 - How do you handle the hydration aspect?  01:10:09 - Will you return next year?  01:13:07 - What would you tell people that still have fires during fire bans? 01:15:06 - If you could redo one of the trails you’ve done, which would you do?  01:17:08 - What is your backpacking advice for new hikers?  01:18:54 - What are your big 3? Or 5?  01:25:02 - What goals do you have for 2022? 01:26:32 - Do you have any gear sponsors? 01:27:03 - Follow Quadzilla on Instagram 01:29:47 - Thank you, Quadzilla!   SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Ryan ‘Constantine’ Bunting sets North Country Trail FKT and Becomes Youngest Hiker to Complete All 11 National Scenic Trail Triple Crown of New Year’s Resolutions  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.  IndexIQ Investing Involves Risk. Consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and the statement of additional information include this and other relevant information about the Funds and are available by visiting CLNRetf.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. IndexIQ® is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Investment Management Holdings LLC and serves as the advisor to the IndexIQ ETFs. ALPS Distributors, Inc. (ALPS) is the principal underwriter of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a distributor of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is located at 30 Hudson Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with NYLIFE Distributors LLC. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a Member FINRA/SIPC.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again joined by Trek Writer, author, journalist, thru-hiker, and fan favorite, Clay Bonnyman Evans aka "Pony". Pony gives us a play-by-play of his recent PCT thru-hike, we talk an uncomfortable amount about semen, the challenges of maintaining a marriage during a four-month backpacking trip, why this bout of post-trail depression was especially intense, and more. We wrap the show with a triple crown of soups done during another plank-off per our guest's request, and things generally fall off the rails as they tend to do. Listen   Download this episode. [divider] IndexIQ: You no longer need to choose between supporting the environment and investing in your financial future. Visit clnretf.com today! Be sure to read IndexIQ information below before investing.  Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 20% off your entire purchase. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  [divider] Interview with Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA  “Pony”  Time stamps & Questions 00:03:25 - QOTD: What is one thing you are unreasonably excited about right now?  00:13:43 - Introducing Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” 00:15:17 - You just finished the PCT. Let’s chat about it!  00:17:42 - What do you attribute the difference in experience (between AT & PCT) to?  00:20:01 - How would you describe post-trail depression? 00:26:30 - Did your wife start adapting to life without you?  00:30:14 - Was your wife uncomfortable with you spending time with other women?  00:32:18 - Do you think there’s a specific hiking duration that leads to a tipping point when someone is at home waiting for you?  00:37:31 - When is your book coming out?  00:39:14 - Vlogging or blogging your thru-hike  00:39:47 - You weren’t originally planning on thru-hiking the PCT, were you?  00:44:24 - Did you have a plan of attack for bringing up the thru-hike to your wife?  00:47:13 - What is the biggest draw of the thru-hike for you? 00:51:30 - On-trail happiness  00:57:37 - Snow & wildfires on the PCT  01:00:51 - Happiness on the PCT vs. the AT  01:09:00 - Shedding weirdness and bullshit while on trail  01:12:47 - Every thru-hike is an individual experience  01:21:21 - Pony’s sharting story  01:26:01 - What is sharting?  01:27:33 - Why were you talking about anuses with your therapist?  01:30:00 - Jerking off on trail  01:36:16 - What’s the Leave No Trace policy for ejaculant? 01:38:29 - Feeding deer on the trail  01:43:26 - What other spicy takes do you have, Pony?  01:48:27 - PLEASE VOLUNTEER!  01:55:01 - Sharts or Sharks?  01:55:52 - Chaunce’s poop map idea  02:30:00 - Pony addresses ultralight backpacking SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Appalachian Thru-Hike Checklist by Kelly Floro  Triple crown of Soups Mailbag  5 Star Review Hot Stuff w/ Pony [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.  IndexIQ Investing Involves Risk. Consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and the statement of additional information include this and other relevant information about the Funds and are available by visiting CLNRetf.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. IndexIQ® is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Investment Management Holdings LLC and serves as the advisor to the IndexIQ ETFs. ALPS Distributors, Inc. (ALPS) is the principal underwriter of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a distributor of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is located at 30 Hudson Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with NYLIFE Distributors LLC. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a Member FINRA/SIPC.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, the nepotism continues as I'm joined by my 2011 AT pal (drink), Melissa "Click" Goodwin.  In addition to an extensive backpacking resume, Melissa is a professional photographer and the founder at Girl Gotta Hike, a guiding company for women based out of New York.  We of course take a trip down memory lane- trading some of our favorite moments from the AT in 2011 (drink), we also talk about what it's like to thru-hike with a parent, how Melissa and her husband Donni make due with her being gone for such long stretches, some of the tricks behind the trade of food photography, and we learn all about Click's foray into becoming a professional hiking guide. We wrap the show with a brand new segment- who do you think you are I am of the week.   IndexIQ: You no longer need to choose between supporting the environment and investing in your financial future. Visit clnretf.com today! Be sure to read IndexIQ information below before investing.  Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 20% off your entire purchase. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek10” here.  [divider] Interview with Melissa “Click” Goodwin Melissa Goodwin Photography Girl Gotta Hike Time stamps & Questions 00:03:38 - QOTD: There is an old man who lives deep in the forest. He’s immortal and was born in the year 0. If you get to ask him one question, what do you ask? 00:06:30 - Welcome Melissa Click Goodwin  00:07:20 - Which hike, aside from the AT, would you do again?  00:10:12 - What does your body feel like at that elevation? 00:11:55 - The Himalayan Rescue Association  00:13:16 - The Wonderland Trail  00:13:57 - How many days did it take to complete?  00:14:51 - Section and day-hiking the AT 00:15:39 - What was Zach like when he was on the AT?  00:16:08 - At what point did Zach and Melissa meet on the AT?  00:16:50 - Okay…but what was Zach like when he was on the AT? 00:18:24 - Anything embarrassing about Zach?  00:20:20 - Do you ever get shit for aqua blazing?  00:21:47 - Was that a thing back in the day?  00:24:54 - What did you enjoy about hiking with your dad?  00:27:14 - What did you learn about your dad that you didn’t know before the trail?  00:28:05 - Would you describe your relationship as being strong even before the AT?  00:29:44 - Did you share a water filter as well?  00:30:49 - Did you find any issues with using Aquamira? 00:31:35 - Any other points that were challenging when hiking with your dad? 00:33:45 - If you could go back and advise yourself and your dad on how to smooth out those edges, what would you recommend?  00:36:21 - Did you have any rules when it came to gear sharing?  00:38:09 - Do you feel like your mom became more comfortable with your dad hiking as time went on? 00:39:27 - How did your bond with your dad change after the AT?  00:42:34 - Talk through your photography setup while on trail 00:44:50 - Technology advancements since 2011  00:47:17 - What was your reaction to your fiancé going on a thru-hike? 00:49:03 - Was it stressful getting married right after the AT?  00:52:04 - Donny, how do you feel the AT changed Melissa?  00:55:59 - How do you handle Melissa being gone for other hikes?  01:00:03 - How did you profit off of photos from your hike?  01:01:56 - Plug your website: melissagoodwinphotography.com  01:02:07 - What was the Nat Geo assignment?  01:04:02 - What goes into good food photography?  01:05:14 - So you are actually preparing the meals?  01:06:50 - Do you modify the food before it’s photographed? 01:09:44 - What’s the craziest food trick that you’ve used?  01:11:00 - What’s the most delicious thing you’ve ever shot?  01:14:54 - Can you recall the grossest thing you’ve shot?  01:16:55 - Walk us through “Girl Gotta Hike”  01:19:03 - What does it take to get a guide license?  01:19:32 - Did you need to take a test?  01:21:35 - Do you need insurance?  01:23:24 - Walk us through the evolution of “Girl Gotta Hike”  01:24:19 - What do you limit the hikes at?  01:25:14 - What’s the typical age range you get?  01:27:00 - What’s the most challenging part of running a guiding service? 01:31:15 - What goes into finding a good location?  01:34:25 - How many repeat hikers do you have?  01:35:22 - Tell me about the podcast side of your business 01:37:47 - Are you planning the hike for Chaunce?  01:41:46 - Would you rather be forced to live the same day over and over again for a full year or take 3 years off the end of your life? 01:42:32 - Would you rather have a hike planned for 15 people and 40 show up, or a hike planned for 15 and 0 show up? 01:44:47 - Would you rather be smacked in the face with a fish or farted on? 01:46:26 - Would you rather have one free year to go backpacking and never be able to go again, or have only one free week each year but get to go every year? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The PCT Thru-Hike Checklist: 29 Things To Do Before You Start Who do you think you are I am?  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.  IndexIQ Investing Involves Risk. Consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and the statement of additional information include this and other relevant information about the Funds and are available by visiting CLNRetf.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. IndexIQ® is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Investment Management Holdings LLC and serves as the advisor to the IndexIQ ETFs. ALPS Distributors, Inc. (ALPS) is the principal underwriter of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a distributor of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is located at 30 Hudson Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with NYLIFE Distributors LLC. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a Member FINRA/SIPC.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by CDT thru-hikers and TikTok celebrities, Renee and Tim.  The duo gives us a rundown on their recent CDT trek, the trail and backpacking scene around Germany, where they currently reside, and we go in-depth about their rise to fame on TikTok, including how the platform's culture differs from Instagram, their methodology in posting catchy content, and how their fame impacted their CDT thru-hike.  We wrap the show with a triple crown of childhood crushes, Chaunce and Badger give a quick update on our state of the union for backpacking footwear, and we learn about a new documentary from a former Backpacker Radio guest.   IndexIQ: You no longer need to choose between supporting the environment and investing in your financial future. Visit clnretf.com today! Be sure to read IndexIQ information below before investing.  Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Excludes Black Friday sale, between 11/15-12/7. Goodr discount code: Use code “backpacker15” to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “trek10” here.  [divider] Interview with Renee & Tim Time stamps & Questions 00:03:38 - QOTD: What’s the most cringey pick-up line? 00:06:34 - Introducing Renee & Tim  00:07:06 - What is your hiking resume?  00:07:56 - How did you land in Germany?  00:08:35 - Were you intentionally searching for international jobs?  00:09:28 - Is the university system in Germany fee?  00:10:06 - Are there any other stark differences between universities?  00:10:53 - Were you avid hikers before the PCT?  00:11:48 - Where in the Chicago area are you from?  00:12:11 - How long have you been together? 00:12:22 - Where did you go to school?  00:13:18 - Why the CDT and not the AT?  00:14:30 - Can you share about the alternates of the CDT?  00:15:53 - Are there areas where the alternates are considered better than others?  00:17:04 - Did you have to battle any snow?  00:18:39 - Would you recommend staying off the Facebook pages?  00:19:13 - What were you using for Beta?  00:21:25 - Were you fairly comfortable with the snow on the CDT? 00:22:13 - Do you know the backstory of the “Dirty Money” name?  00:22:57 - Where in Wisconsin are you from, Renee?  00:23:19 - Did you encounter any life-threatening weather?  00:25:11 - How do the extremes compare between PCT to CDT?  00:26:52 - Tell us the story about your water story!  00:28:47 - What was your water carrying strategy?  00:31:14 - Did you get used to drinking out of cow tanks?  00:34:53 - Tell us about the wildlife you saw  00:38:38 - Were you filming for TikTok? 00:39:20 - Were you TikToking prior to your CDT hike?  00:40:50 - How produced are the videos?  00:42:45 - How many of your videos are pointing to text boxes?  00:44:18 - Did your large following impact your hike?  00:44:49 - Did it ever get to be too much?  00:45:33 - Were people meeting you in upcoming towns?  00:46:51 - Are you getting the same fan behavior in Germany?  00:47:40 - Tell us a little more about your business 00:49:38 - Are you seeing good traction from your TikTok fame?  00:50:45 - What was the response from the hiking community?  00:55:34 - What demographic do you reach on TikTok?  00:56:54 - How often do you run into people that offer you drinks?  00:57:32 - What advice do you have for people looking to grow on TikTok?  00:59:15 - Is Germany going through COVID challenges right now?  01:00:48 - Do you see similarities between Florida and Germany?  01:02:02 - What trails would you recommend in Germany?  01:04:27 - What is the backpacking/hiking culture like in Germany?  01:06:23 - If work weren’t a tether, would you still be in Germany?  01:07:46 - Any 2022 hiking plans?  01:09:39 - Thank you Tim & Renee!    SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Breaking Trail, Film About Emily Ford’s Ice Age Trail Thru-Hike, Premiers at BANFF Festival Pics Or It Didn’t Happen: Is Social Media Ruining Thru-Hiking? Triple crown of childhood crushes  Mailbag  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.  IndexIQ Investing Involves Risk. Consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and the statement of additional information include this and other relevant information about the Funds and are available by visiting CLNRetf.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. IndexIQ® is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Investment Management Holdings LLC and serves as the advisor to the IndexIQ ETFs. ALPS Distributors, Inc. (ALPS) is the principal underwriter of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a distributor of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is located at 30 Hudson Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with NYLIFE Distributors LLC. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a Member FINRA/SIPC.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by backpacking legend Nimble Nomad. The name is likely familiar as Nimblewill Nomad recently made news for setting the record as the oldest person to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail at 83 years old. We learn all about this odyssey- and he does not sugarcoat how challenging it was. He also shares some of the wisdom he's accrued over his many tens of thousands of miles on trail, which can be applied to both your on and off-trail worlds.  We close the show with a triple crown of rooms in the house and some gift ideas for the backpacker in your life. IndexIQ: You no longer need to choose between supporting the environment and investing in your financial future. Visit clnretf.com today! Be sure to read IndexIQ information below before investing.  Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Excludes Black Friday sale, between 11/15-12/7. Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 25% off everything in the store and free shipping within the U.S. from 11/26-11/30. After those dates, get 20% off your entire purchase with code “backpacker”  Minus33: Head to minus33.com and use promo code “21backpacker15” for 15% off your order [divider] Interview with Nimblewill Nomad Time stamps & Questions 00:03:44 - QOTD: What single scene ruined an entire movie/TV series/franchise?  00:10:30 - Reminders: Backpacker Radio Sponsorship & Fundraising  00:11:38 - Introducing Nimblewill Nomad  00:12:25 - How did you get started in the world of hiking and backpacking?  00:15:05 - Did you always intend to go that far?  00:16:31 - Was there any part of you that wanted to finish at Katahdin?  00:18:36 - Does it get harder every time you finish?  00:21:10 - What is your terminology for your thru-hikes? 00:22:52 - What’s the difference between your 1998 hike and 2000/2001 hike?  00:29:04 - What’s the difference between the International AT and U.S. AT?  00:33:23 - Did you intentionally try to break the record for oldest AT hiker?  00:35:10 - Why did you name it your last trail?  00:37:04 - How did the difficulties of this hike compare to other times on the AT?  00:39:38 - Why did you add an additional 420 miles to your AT hike?  00:42:56 - Why do you call your thru-hikes odysseys?  00:49:25 - Are there any profound spiritual differences to who you are today?  00:52:23 - Any wisdom you’d relay to former you or others listening?  00:58:07 - What were some of the most memorable parts of the AT hike?  01:04:00 - Is it true your base weight is 6 or 7 pounds? 01:04:47 - What do you carry with you?  01:08:00 - Nimblewill Nomad’s sponsors  01:13:10 - Would you like to speak about simplifying your belongings and life?  01:18:00 - Talk us through your philosophy of simple living off trail 01:20:53 - What was it like spending time with Dale “Grey Beard” Sanders  01:25:30 - Is there something similar between you and Grey Beard that motivates you to complete a goal like the AT?  01:31:52 - Can you talk us through how it felt to complete the hike?  01:34:50 - Anything you’d like our listeners to know before we close?   SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda If you want to learn more about Nimblewill Nomad, check out Kelly Floro’s article, Nimblewill Nomad, 83, Just Became the Oldest Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Get some gift ideas: Thru-Hiker Gift Guide $ Triple crown of rooms in the house  5 Star Reviews IndexIQ Investing Involves Risk. Consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and the statement of additional information include this and other relevant information about the Funds and are available by visiting CLNRetf.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. IndexIQ® is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Investment Management Holdings LLC and serves as the advisor to the IndexIQ ETFs. ALPS Distributors, Inc. (ALPS) is the principal underwriter of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a distributor of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is located at 30 Hudson Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with NYLIFE Distributors LLC. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a Member FINRA/SIPC. [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas. 

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Minus33, we are joined by Badger’s pal, Billy Widmer.  In addition to being The Trek's go-to tech guru, Billy has an accomplished backpacking resume that includes an AT thru-hike, a lot of trekking through his native lands of New York, and a recent and very unorthodox thru-hike of the Arizona Trail.  The conversation spins off in a predictably tangential fashion, where we talk about web 3.0, the blockchain, and the mental health impacts of 100% remote work. We wrap the show with a triple crown of ways to stave off the winter blues and the news of some recent bear activity near McAfee Knob on the AT. Minus33: Head to minus33.com and use code “21backpacker15” for 15% off your order Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Excludes Black Friday sale. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek10” here. Code excludes holiday sale running 11/19/21 - 11/29/21, where shoppers can score 10% off customer & 20% off stock.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 25% off everything in the store and free shipping within the U.S. from 11/26-11/30. After those dates, get 20% off your entire purchase with code “backpacker”  Interview with Billy Widmer  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:13 - QOTD: What’s your death row meal?  00:07:20 - Welcome Billy!  00:07:52 - How did you get your trail name?  00:08:44 - Is that your death row meal?  00:09:00 - Were you always vegan in NY?  00:09:35 - What’s your hiking background?  00:10:24 - Was that your first long-distance hiking trip?  00:10:48 - What have you been up to since the AT?  00:12:07 - When did you do the Uinta Highline?  00:12:22 - Give us the rundown on that!  00:12:56 - Does Utah get similar weather too Colorado?  00:13:41 - Why did you choose eastbound? 00:14:10 - Is there a logistical reason why people go one way versus another?  00:14:26 - How much of it is trailed?  00:15:00 - Is there a specific difference between the East terrain and West terrain?  00:15:56 - For someone interested in the Uinta Highline, do you have any prep advice?  00:17:14 - What is the Nolan’s 14?  00:18:07 - Do you have to complete it in a certain amount of time?  00:18:26 - How many people have done it within 60 hours? 00:18:56 - What went wrong in your attempt?  00:19:57 - Did you give yourself checkpoints for pacing? 00:21:11 - What Mt. Elbert the first 14er you ever did?  00:21:28 - Would you make another attempt?  00:21:44 - Did you do Capitol Peak?  00:22:28 - What is it like going over the knife’s edge on Capitol Peak?  00:23:18 - Chaunce, would you do Capitol Peak?  00:24:19 - Have you done any other 14ers that rival Capitol Peak?  00:24:51 - How does that compare to climbing in Yosemite?  00:25:15 - What’s the most intense climbing you’ve done?  00:26:12 - Where did your idea for the AZT come from?  00:28:30 - Because of the water access, did your route work for you?  00:29:39 - What was your timeframe for hiking the AZT? 00:30:35 - Was it a fairly solo journey?  00:31:07 - Does your mind start playing tricks on you? 00:32:16 - What was the wildlife like?  00:33:24 - Do bites happen regularly? 00:34:53 - Any other wildlife encounters?  00:35:07 - What is a Gila monster? 00:35:50 - Are they endangered or just good at hiding? 00:36:02 - Do they bite?  00:36:33 - How long did it take you to hike the AZT? 00:37:43 - What was your average daily mileage?  00:38:01 - How does the AZT compare to the AT?  00:38:58 - Would you do it again? 00:39:33 - Did you encounter ridiculously hot days?  00:39:58 - Were you hiking in the evenings at all?  00:40:22 - Did you become the Guthook/Far Out hero? 00:41:11 - Any other notable highlights/lowlights from the AZT?  00:42:17 - Do you wish you would have picked a longer trail?  00:45:24 - As a vegan, what do you eat on trail?  00:48:11- What do you like about working for Zach?  00:48:55 - What do you hate about working for Zach?  00:50:27 - What has your career path looked like?  00:52:12 - Is it accurate that other companies try to lure you in with benefits or perks? 00:54:08 - What’s Chaunce’s candy count so far?  00:55:02 - How do you get started in the tech world?  00:55:40 - Is there a specific programming language someone should start with? 00:56:14 - Do you need to be proficient in math to be a good developer?  00:57:30 - What is web 3.0? 01:00:40 - It decentralizes everything right?  01:01:10 - What is proof of concept?  01:02:29 - What is a “block”? 01:04:11 - Do you believe this is the future of universal currency?  01:05:42 - What’s an NFT and is Zach one?  01:09:56 - You mentioned you think everything will be digital. What would a digital world look like?  01:11:03 - Do people think it’s bad that things will all become digital?  01:14:02 - How do you feel about remote work? 01:19:26 - What’s your major fuck up at The Trek?  01:21:50 - What’s on your outdoor bucket list for the next year?  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  How I Managed Chronic Depression on my AT Thru-Hike by Sarah Wolfson Bear Activity Near McAfee Knob by Kelly Floro Triple crown of ways to fight off the Winter Blues Thank you again too Minus33!  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Andrew Hughes.  Andrew is quite possibly the most accomplished mountaineer that you have never heard of.  Some of his feats include climbing the highest summit in all seven continents and six of the seven highest volcanic summits, he's the third person ever to complete the Antarctica Trifecta, and he's very close to completing the Explorers' Grand Slam.  If you're not familiar with what these last two feats are, you're certainly not alone, we do a deep dive on all this and much more. We learn about a missing hiker who ignored rescuers' calls for a hilarious reason, a very last minute, seasonal triple crown, and we hear from Chaunce's #1 fan.  

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we bring you our first ever LIVE podcast.  And by that, we mean it was live to the fine folks who joined us at the Hop Haus in Fitchburg, Wisconsin on October 15th.  There's no way to describe this episode other than...rowdy.  If you want to feel like you were in the room with us, we recommend grabbing a blue ribbon or two and maybe an old-fashioned to boot.   Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Goodr: Use code “backpacker15” at checkout to save 15% off your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15  Vital Farms: Check out vitalfarms.com to learn more about where honest food is raised [divider] 2021 AT Hikers: Take the Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Survey Live episode with Chaunce, Zach, and special guest, Jabba Time stamps & Questions 00:03:13- QOTD: What’s one thing from your childhood that you wish was still in full force today?  00:04:09 - Reminders & thank you to Ice Age Trail Alliance  00:05:03 - Episode Drinking Game: Any time you hear the words “hike” or “Wisconsin”, take a drink  00:06:43 - Introducing the surprise guest 00:07:38 - Welcoming Jabba  00:08:33 - Jabba’s elevator pitch  00:11:10 - Explaining the Culver’s CurderBurger  00:12:56 - What is the Ice Age Trail’s Mammoth Hiking Challenge?  00:14:42 - Jabba and his full throttle approach   00:15:57 - Can Chaunce spell “apropos”? 00:17:56 - Favorite moments from the Ice Age Trail 00:20:01 - Who knows the game of “Odds”? 00:22:14 - Is anyone familiar with the Lehigh Gap on the AT?  00:23:26 - Chaunce is interested in thru-hiking the Ice Age Trail  00:24:10 - Let’s show Elise some appreciation!  00:25:58 - Would you rather have a magical van that could teleport you anywhere you want and time travel OR magically consume the knowledge of any book you touch?  00:27:50 - Would you rather have an obsessive person love you OR hate you?  00:30:25 - Would you rather be able to eat anything you want and have it be perfect nutrition OR sleep one hour a day and be fully rested  00:31:40 - Which scenario would you want to be true: Jurassic Park Or Ghost Busters?  00:32:35 - Would you rather fight a chicken barehanded every time you get into a car OR fight an orangutan with a sword once a year?  00:35:00 - Hike Wisconsin!  00:35:20 - What animal do you think would be your exact equal in a fight?  00:36:26 - What is your definition of love?   00:38:10 - Jabba’s Colorado trail story  00:41:13 - What is the most suspicious thing to buy along with condoms?  00:42:20 - Do you open a popsicle from the stick side or popsicle side?  00:45:16 - Are hot dogs sandwiches?  00:47:20 - Would you rather win a million dollars OR gain global citizenship?  00:49:50 - Would you rather fight one hundred chicken sized horses OR one horse-sized chicken?  00:54:55 - Let’s chat about the Hayduke  00:57:57 - Who is working on the Mammoth Hike Challenge?  00:58:11 - Who has completed the challenge?  00:59:11 - Does everyone know who Scott Jurek is?  01:02:11 - Does anyone know who’s face is part of the Mike Myers mask?  01:03:30 - Let’s get back to Scott Jurek!  01:04:20 - What went wrong with the FKT attempts?  01:09:08 - At what point did you know you needed to go home?  01:11:38 - Is anyone familiar with Scott Jurek’s book, North?  01:13:31 - How do you convince your support team that you’re done?  01:15:15 - Audience Q&A Time  01:16:18 - What’s the longest you’ve been on a trail?  01:17:27 - What was home to you at that time?  01:19:48 - What do you listen to while you hike? What is your favorite Harry Styles song?  01:30:20 - Do you think it’s easier to hike, go back to a job, and know what’s out there for you OR continue working a job that you aren’t pleased with, but not know the joy hiking could bring?  01:32:25 - Tasha, blogger of The Trek, answers the above question  01:35:40 - Introducing Pauly!  01:37:48 - What is it like editing BPR?  01:38:20 - When have you edited out something Jabba said or did?  01:39:40 - What was the most painful episode to edit?  01:40:40 - Do you actually enjoy listening to the podcast?  01:42:42 - What nuances do you pick up on that the normal person wouldn’t pick up on?  01:43:42 - What “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” clip did you add to the Fancy Feast episode?    SEGMENTS Triple Crown of Wisconsin Things Get to know Mara  Ice Age Trail Spotlight  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, Badger, Chaunce, and Sauce give you the full recap of our recent Wisconsin Ice Age Trail Road Trip Extravaganza.  We give you a play-by-play of the highlights from the trail, town, the live events, and all the TMI inside stories and embarrassing moments in between.  Casual warning to listeners- you will walk away from this one wanting to hike the Ice Age Trail and/or gorge yourself on fried fish. We wrap with a very brief segment discussing the new rebrand of Guthook Guides. Organifi discount code: Use code “backpacker” at organifi.com/backpacker for 20% off your purchase Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Minus33: Head to minus33.com and use code “21backpacker15” for 15% off your order ZBiotics: Use code “trek10” at zbiotics.com  Recap with Chaunce, Zach, and Elise  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:52 - QOTD: What was your biggest surprise about Wisconsin?  00:10:16 - Day 1 in Wisconsin  00:11:28 - Meeting the Travel Wisconsin crew 00:12:11 - Starting the Ice Age Trail in St. Croix   00:15:53 - Packing out Culvers every night  00:17:40 - Sunsets, beavers, and WI elevation  00:18:51 - Ice Age Trail history from Elise  00:20:42 - Beaver stories 00:23:30 - Playing “Odds”  00:27:02 - Breakfast in Cornell, WI  00:29:40 - Ice Age Trail: Ringle Segment 00:32:04 - Zach drops spider in Elise’s bag  00:35:54 - Night hiking  00:40:56 - Ice Age Trail trailhead festivity  00:41:25 - Playing “Odds” again  00:44:55 - Hilltop Pub & Grill fish fry  00:46:44 - What are the odds Zach would hike in a leather thong? 00:49:03 - Bohn Lake segment  00:50:32 - Preparing for the Delafield Meet-up  00:55:36 - Exploring Whitewater, WI 00:59:40 - Getting to know Elise better  01:00:14 - Jabba joined the group 01:01:16 - Elisa tells Chaunce’s underwear story  01:04:00 - Ice Age Trail: Blackhawk and Blue Spring Lake segment  01:06:13 - Hiking Devil’s Lake  01:11:44 - Car ferry on the Ice Age Trail  01:12:38 - Exploring Lodi, WI  01:13:32 - Live podcasting in Fitchburg, WI  01:15:12 - What happened to Chaunce’s face?  01:20:00 - Exploring downtown Madison, WI on Badge Game Day  01:20:39 - Flying back to Denver  01:22:44 - Recap wrap-up    SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  Guthook Guides, Popular Thru-Hiking App, Rebrands as FarOut [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup.   A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by world-renowned photographer and director, Pete McBride. We learn about Pete's entry into photography, including what advice he'd offer to aspiring adventure journalists, what it's like to work for NationalGeographic, the ongoing conservationist threats to the Grand Canyon and the Navajo Nation, and we learn all about his new book "Seeing Silence: The Beauty of the World’s Most Quiet Places".  We wrap the show with a triple crown of our favorite sounds from nature, another gross or not gross aimed at hazing Chaunce, and we get a listener recommendation for combining the backcountry bidet with the kula cloth. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek10” here. ZBiotics: Use code “trek10” at zbiotics.com  Vital Farms: Check out vitalfarms.com to learn more about where honest food is raised Interview with Pete McBride Pete McBride’s Instagram  New Book: “Seeing Silence: The Beauty of the World's Most Quiet Places” Time stamps & Questions 00:04:19 - QOTD: What is the single most thing you are excited about for the Wisconsin trip?  00:07:22 - Introducing Pete McBride  00:08:05 - How did you get into photography?  00:10:46 - Was this digital photography at the time? 00:11:49 - When you went digital, was it due to the wider range of error?  00:13:04 - Do you have one go-to camera or is it based on the job?  00:13:55 - Do you have a couple go-to lens’s you use?  00:14:17 - What lens did you use for your Grand Canyon hike?  00:16:41 - What is the project proposal process for National Geographic?  00:17:38 - Would you recommend photographers focus on writing skills?  00:19:30 - What are the biggest differences between a photography and videography project?  00:21:13 - How much of the story do you build out prior to the shoot?  00:23:06 - Any favorite leaf peeping spots in Colorado?  00:26:16 - How many photography projects have you done?  00:27:27 - Do you have a favorite project?  00:29:39 - How much water did you carry for that stretch?  00:31:00 - How do you deal with the emotional response to visually seeing the rivers dry up?  00:33:28 - Tell me more about the Grand Canyon project  00:36:43 - Where does the “Grand Escalade” initiative stand today?  00:38:28 - Is there a resource you’d recommend to others interested in protecting the Grand Canyon?  00:40:45 - Was the hike of the Grand Canyon a hard sell for yourself?  00:42:21 - What is hyponatremia?  00:43:16 - What happened after you fell apart on day 5?  00:44:45 - How did you segment the Grand Canyon hike?  00:45:15 - Are you taking a trail to get in and out of the canyon?  00:46:20 - What was the stat regarding the number of tourists that could go into the canyon via the tram? 00:48:00 - Give us the pitch for your new book 00:51:31 - What is the Drake Passage?  00:52:01 - What does a 70 ft. swell feel like?  00:52:22 - Is it the motion that’s upsetting or the risk?  00:54:18 - Did you know you were capturing a once-in-a-lifetime event?  00:55:51 - Did you feel excitement or fear with the whale?  00:56:38 - Do Orcas eat any fish in mass quantities?  00:57:59 - What are your favorite sounds that get overlooked by most people?  01:01:29 - Where should people buy the book?  01:01:54 - How many photos are in the book?  01:02:53 - Do you have a favorite photo?  01:03:33 - Have you ever done anything with eels?  01:04:37 - Can you tell us the story of the The Ganges photo?  01:06:09 - What is your favorite photography subject?  01:07:11 - Have you ever felt your life was in danger when photographing wildlife?  01:09:37 - Have there been other times where you’ve felt your life was in danger?  01:12:23 - Where can people listen to your NPR interview? 01:13:02 - Anything else you’d like to direct listeners to?  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Congrats to 2021 PCT Thru-Hikers  Congrats to 2021 AT Thru-Hikers EcoPak – Revolutionizing Thru-Hiking Packs for a Better Planet The Trek Blogger & Vlogger Applications Triple Crown of coolest nature sounds  Gross or Not Gross: Re-wearing workout clothes for more than one workout Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we open the show with a Hiker Trash edition of "Hot Ones", where Chaunce and Badger are grilled by Elise while eating incredibly hot wings. Tears, fear, and slamming beers ensues. We also feature our most impromptu interview to date with our new pal, Fancy Feast. Fancy Feast just wrapped a thru-hike of the Colorado Trail, after having her SOBO PCT plans thwarted by California's fires. In addition to giving us the unenviable story of finding Badger's dirty socks, she shares her experiences of working a variety of conservation jobs, including her time at the Green Mountain Club, and quite possibly the funniest trail name origin story we've ever heard. We wrap the show with a triple crown of the most beautiful spaces we've seen while backpacking, a quick n dirty gear review on the Platypus QuickDraw, and some listener feedback on period underwear.   Minus33: Head to minus33.com and use code “21backpacker15” for 15% off your order Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off of Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek10” here  Organifi discount code: Use code “backpacker” at organifi.com/backpacker for 20% off your purchase ZBiotics: Use code “trek10” at zbiotics.com [divider] Interview with Fancy Feast Fancy Feast's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:40 - QOTD: Do people attempting an FKT take the time to bury their poop? 00:06:30 - Backpacker Team Hot Ones 00:07:23 - How is everyone’s spice tolerance?  00:09:05 - Chaunce, what’s the longest you have gone without a shower? 00:11:00 - Zach, are there any big adventure plans with Leo?  00:12:20 - Chaunce, if you could co-host with someone other than Zach, who would you pick? 00:12:42 - Zach, if you could co-host with someone other than Chaunce, who would you pick? 00:14:03 - Can you name the first 10 episodes of Backpacker Radio in order?  00:18:11 - Zach, do you and Chaunce ever argue over creative differences? If so, when?  00:21:10 - Chaunce, what annoys you the most about Zach? 00:23:03 - Zach, can you explain this Tweet: “We imitate dog stretches and sexual positions, but not their affinity for goose shit. Seems arbitrary to me.” What inspired that? 00:24:23 - Chaunce, are there any episodes you wish you could erase?  00:27:29 - What’s the most annoying thru-hiking cliche?  00:31:34 - Chaunce, are you single?  00:32:07 - Zach, what was the last thing you lied to Jenna about?  00:33:39 - Chaunce, do you know what the Vas Deferens are? The seminal vesicles? The corona?  00:38:21 - Zach, can you sing “Walking Slow” by Animal Years? 00:40:11 - What’s the worst Leave No Trace error you’ve made?  00:43:13 - Out of all the guests on the show, are there any that you’d never want to hike with or have back on the show?  00:44:50 - Chaunce and Zach, will either of you triple crown?  00:49:10 - Introducing Fancy Feast 00:50:26 - Backstory of Zach’s sock search  00:53:22 - When did you finish the Colorado Trail?  00:53:39 - Give us your backpacking resume 00:57:06 - What was it like to work for the Green Mountain Club?  00:57:12 - Walk us through your job  00:58:00 - How do you go about educating other hikers?  00:58:43 - How did you handle poop stirring tasks?  00:58:57 - What do you stir the waste with?  00:59:43 - How many total privies have you stirred?  01:01:14 - What is the difference between the privies?  01:01:51 - Do you wear a N95 mask when doing those tasks?  01:02:02 - Have you ever gotten poop soup on you? 01:03:13 - What happens after the composting process begins?  01:03:34 - Where does the new soil get distributed?  01:04:34 - Do you have any advice for others looking for a similar job?  01:05:46 - Anything else on the hiking resume?  01:07:00 - What is it like to be told you need to get off trail vs. when you make the decision yourself?  01:10:05 - When you switched to the Sierra, was it a strategic decision?  01:10:48 - Did you hike the CT with other PCT hikers? 01:13:04 - What was the journey like getting from the PCT to the CT? 01:15:58 - What’s the Southwest Conservation Corp?  01:16:35 - What are some examples of the work?  01:18:00 - How did you end up getting into conservation work?  01:19:33 - Give us your pitch on why trail maintenance is rewarding  01:22:52 - How many compliments do you get on your hat?  01:23:20 - How did you find out about Zach’s socks?  01:24:04 - Did you have trouble finding them? 01:24:48 - What was appealing about the sock hunt?  01:26:44 - What hike is next?  01:27:28 - Do you have to worry about snow?  01:29:04 - What knowledge do you need to have about cows?  01:30:26 - Is this a paid role? 01:30:36 - Is there an adventure planned for after ski bumming?  01:31:29 - If you went back on the conservation end of the spectrum, do you have a dream conservation job?  01:32:15 - How did you get the name Fancy Feast?  01:34:58 - Did it taste like it smells?  01:35:24 - Have you eaten cat food since?  01:36:45 - As a listener, what is something you’ve always wanted to say to the hosts?  01:37:45 - Was it a conscious decision to not wear makeup on an episode where you’re sweating?  01:38:14 - How does the studio compare to your expectations?  01:38:56 - What was your least favorite episode?  01:39:20 - What do you do to save money?  01:40:29 - What was your favorite episode?  01:42:49 - Anything else you’d like to convey, Fancy Feast?     SEGMENTS Hot Ones Bet  Trek Propaganda  Triple Crown of the best backpacking views  Gross or Not Gross If you don't wash thrifted clothes before you wear them Mail Bag  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are rejoined by Nicole Antoinette.  We get an update on how her Colorado Trail hike went, including some very unexpected turns, we learn more about her entry into van life, and what advice she'd give to others looking to do the same, and chat about her new book which she is reluctant to call a book, How to Be Alone, an 800-mile hike on the Arizona Trail.  Perhaps it goes without saying, but for those who were fans of Nicole's first appearance on the show, this one will not disappoint.  We wrap the show with Chaunce butchering the pronunciation of Wisconsin town names, a quick education on the bark beetle problem facing the American West, an exciting announcement about a not-yet-fully-fledged Backpacker Radio sponsorship for one lucky 2022 thru-hiker, a triple crown of stereotypical dog names, and much more. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off of Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek10” here. Organifi discount code: Use code “backpacker” at organifi.com/backpacker for 20% off your purchase Vital Farms: Check out vitalfarms.com to learn more about where honest food is raised Goodr: Use code “backpacker15” at checkout to save 15% off your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15  [divider] Interview with Nicole Antoinette Nicole’s Instagram Nicole's Food Post  Nicole's New Book Nicole's Gear List Time stamps & Questions 00:05:04 - QOTD: What’s your favorite fall activity? 00:08:26 - Wisconsin hiker meet-up updates  00:10:15 - The Mammoth Hike challenge  00:11:01 - Introducing Nicole Antoinette  00:13:03 - How did the Colorado Trail compare to the Arizona Trail and PCT?  00:13:47 - Why was the Colorado Trail the most joyful hiking experience?  00:16:27 - Emotional base weight impacts your hike  00:18:43 - Beginners on the Colorado Trail 00:21:05 - Tell us about hiking with your partner  00:24:05 - How did you handle your partner’s injury mid-hike?  00:28:45 - What did everyone else’s journey look like from that point forward? 00:32:36 - Hiking with your partner  00:35:19 - Did you have a favorite stretch or day on the Colorado Trail?  00:38:40 - Altitude sickness on the Colorado Trail 00:43:29 - Social media’s impact on preparing for a thru hike  00:46:26 - Anything else you’d want to share about the Colorado Trail? 00:48:06 - Hiking with a frameless pack  00:54:50 - Why did you move away from veganism?  00:58:08 - Any go-to, vegan thru-hiking foods? 01:01:30 - Did you experience any health changes when you re-introduced animal products? 01:04:31 - Do the symptoms of endometriosis go away immediately after you start hiking?  01:06:21 - How often are you living in your van?  01:06:48 - What year did van life start?  01:06:55 - What motivated you to get into van life?  01:09:03 - Talk us through the non-obvious pros and cons of van life  01:13:52 - If you could go back and give yourself van life advice, would you change anything?  01:18:13 - Did you retire a podcast?  01:18:26 - Tell me about the new podcast 01:22:07 - Nicole’s book 01:29:55 - Thank you, Nicole!    SEGMENTS Wisconsin Town Names Trek Propaganda  Triple Crown of most stereotypical dog names If you were to get a restaurant logo tattoo in exchange for free food, what Denver restaurant would you pick? Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews Gross or Not Gross Zach's photo of a white substance [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup.   A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are talking all things social media and how it relates to the world of backpacking.  This is a long and lively conversation and we dive into some highly charged subjects including gatekeeping, is Instagram influencing a good or bad for the thru-hiking culture, the addictive nature of social media, and much much more.     Backcountry.com discount code: Use code “backpackerradio” at backcountry.com/backpackerradio to get 15% off your first full price purchase Organifi discount code: Use code “backpacker” at organifi.com/backpacker for 20% off your purchase [divider] Social Media X Backpacking Panel  Zach’s Instagram Juliana’s Instagram Elise’s Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:02:44 - QOTD: What was the first social media app you engaged with regularly?  00:09:19 - Wisconsin reminder: Delafield & Fitchburg events  00:10:27 - Introducing today’s panel: Social Media X Backpacking  00:12:24 - Zach’s take on Instagram being an ineffective tool to learn about backpacking 00:13:45 - Chaunce’s rebuttal on using social media for research  00:15:56 - Zach’s recommendation to not use Instagram as your primary research tool  00:16:06 - How much did Chaunce research for her PCT hike?  00:17:00 - Elise’s take on applying critical thinking when viewing social media content  00:18:30 - Blogging content vs. social media content  00:21:30 - Chaunce’s defense of Instagram  00:22:52 - Elise moderates and discusses Instagram serving as a highlight reel 00:23:54 - Example of people using Instagram negatively for educational purposes  00:25:00 - Using social media tools for inspiration  00:27:11 - Discussing the impact of diving into a thru-hike unprepared  00:28:18 - Elise’s caveat to using social media for education  00:29:44 - YouTube being a powerful educator 00:30:10 - Tagging locations on Instagram  00:30:58 - Chaunce’s pro-tagging stance  00:32:43 - Elise’s tagging stance and how it relates to increase crowds in the outdoors  00:34:00 - How tagging locations relates to gatekeeping  00:35:11 - Nuances of the gatekeeping debate  00:36:46 - If you want to keep places private, why would you post about it to begin with? 00:39:25 - Chaunce’s stance on requiring permits for overcrowded areas  00:41:25 - Elise’s point on paid permits being exclusionary  00:44:23 - Pros and cons of Instagram influencing  00:46:26 - Financial motivation to be an influencer  00:53:45 - What are the benefits to growing your presence on Instagram?  00:59:00 - Elise’s pros for growing her account  01:00:39 - Elise’s cons for growing her accounts  01:01:30 - People misplacing their anger toward influencers  01:04:00 - Defining what constitutes as a “public figure”  01:07:45 - At what point do you accept you’re a public figure?  01:08:53 - Elise’s Guthook trolls story  01:11:10 - Opening yourself up to negativity  01:12:28 - Using hashtags to gain exposure  01:12:47 - Summary of pros and cons of Instagram influencing  01:14:55 - Thriving off of social media attention  01:15:45 - Pressures of entertaining fans  01:19:12 - Determining how comfortable you are with attention 01:22:12 - Can being an influencer impact your experience on trail?  01:27:42 - Instagram providing instant gratification  01:30:14 - Have you ever touched up a photo to alter your appearance?  01:31:20 - If you were sharing with friends, would you still edit the photo?  01:35:45 - Does Instagram make people more self-conscious about appearance?  01:42:11 - Is the influencer world having a negative impact in backpacking?  01:54:23 - The power of social media to influence positive change  01:59:51 - How Zach landed on his decision to decrease social media usage  02:06:51 - Zach, how do your opinions conflict with running the Trek’s social pages?  02:08:50 - “The Social Dilemma” documentary  02:10:49 - Chaunce’s social media conclusion  02:16:10 - Being a good listener vs. solutioning  02:18:05 - Defining what good social media use is for you  02:22:17- Episode wrap-up  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup.   A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Lauren and Henri de la Vega — a husband and wife southbounding the Continental Divide Trail to complete their triple crown. We take a journey down memory lane in both romance and trails and get an in-depth play-by-play on their CDT hike thus far. This chat paints an awesome picture of some of the alternates that are available, how to spot geothermal activity under the ground when in the backcountry of Yellowstone, and risk tolerances based on experiences from the PCT. It ends with the cutest Q&A, trek propaganda on a breakout of COVID in the AT portion of Maine, a heated triple crown of cereals, and more. Backcountry.com discount code: Use code “backpackerradio” at backcountry.com/backpackerradio to get 15% off your first full price purchase Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Vital Farms: Check out vitalfarms.com to learn more about where honest food is raised Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek10” here. Interview with Lauren & Henri de la Vega Lauren’s Instagram  Henri’s Instagram  Lauren & Henri’s Guiding Company Time stamps & Questions 00:04:15 - QOTD: How was your last week?  00:09:54 - General Reminders: Wisconsin meetups & new intern  00:11:45 - Guest introductions 00:13:18 - Did you meet on trail?  00:15:42 - Did the woman you babysat for officiate your wedding?  00:16:05 - Did you both have an interest in thru-hiking?  00:17:01 - How long had you been dating when you started the AT? 00:17:23 - Did you enjoy the transition to sharing the same tent, and giving up your personal space? 00:19:04 - How is SOBOing the CDT going?  00:19:50 - When did you start the CDT?  00:19:55 - What was the weather like at the time? 00:20:34 - Were there any big gear changes from the AT/PCT/CDT?  00:21:24 - Did the tent give you peace of mind with the bears?  00:22:20 - What was your reaction when you thought a bear collapsed the tent? 00:22:50 - Did the fires impact your hike?  00:25:28 - What was the scenery like on the Big Sky route?  00:26:03 - How many miles have you hiked?  00:27:57 - How does your mileage tracking impact your resupply?  00:30:15 - What's the most amount of people you think you’ve seen on a given day?  00:30:53 - Are you finding it’s primarily hikers on their 3rd trail, or beginners?  00:31:29 - What’s the wildlife been like? 00:35:17 - Is the pika encounter the scariest animal encounter you’ve had in your life?  00:35:34 - When you walked through Yellowstone, were you able to do some sightseeing?  00:36:36 - Weren’t you worried about the thermal areas while hiking?  00:37:32 - How do you identify thermal areas? 00:39:20 - Were you able to identify any of the thermal areas yourself?  00:41:00 - Can the thermal hot springs be used as a water source?  00:41:14 - Are people swimming in these spots?  00:42:38 - When were you passing through Yellowstone?  00:42:44 - Where do you go after Yellowstone?  00:44:49 - Was the alternate to Jackass Pass similar to Mahoosuc Notch?  00:45:36 - How long is the alternate in comparison to Mahoosuc Notch?  00:47:10 - Did you look at photos before getting to the CDT destinations?  00:48:07 - Since you didn’t see photos beforehand, were you surprised by your reaction to some of the views or spots? 00:49:02 - What were your “Oh shit!” moments on the trails? 01:04:33 - What was underneath the hole you created on Mather Pass?  01:06:46 - Did people on Facebook weigh in on what the hole was?  01:08:18 - Was it Strawberry or Tree?  01:10:54 - Did Strawberry’s accident impact your risk tolerance? 01:13:40 - Where were you Guiding in New York?  01:13:55 - Is it for kids or adults?  01:14:49 - Is it a course you take to become a Guide?  01:15:46 - What types of questions are asked that could be completed on the scantron?  01:16:36 - Back to the CDT, was there anything else to mention about the Wind River Range?  01:23:13 - Filtering cow shit water  01:24:06 - What happens after the basin?  01:25:43 - When you’re doing a stretch of roadway, where do you camp at night?  01:29:14 - What do you say to a cop when you get in trouble for camping on the road?  01:29:46 - Was there anything notable about Colorado we should hit on?  01:34:48 - Does it make you feel better to check the elevation gain of your hike? 01:35:51 - When playing fuck/marry/kill, why would you kill the CDT?  01:36:23 - When did you complete your 14ers  01:36:48 - Is Leadville the last town you were in?  01:38:06 - What are you looking forward to next?  01:39:19 - Did you go into Montbell while you were in Denver, to get puffy pants?  01:42:50 - What’s your biggest pet peeve about each other while on the trail?  01:45:40 - What is the most endearing thing the other person has done?  01:47:48 - How do you fish when on trail?  01:48:15 - If you catch something do you keep it or catch and release?  01:49:49 - What’s one thing that made you want to murder the other person while on trail?  01:52:22 - If you were to write a dating bio for the other person, in a hiking theme, what would you write? 01:55:38 - Give me your joint dating profile bio, as a couple, for a trail magic sugar momma 01:56:44 - Thanks for joining us Lauren & Henri!  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda: AT Surge in COVID Cases Triple Crown of Cereals [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are bringing you another edition of the wildly popular Girl's Stuff episode.  Chaunce, Sauce, and guest panelist Lavendar share their experiences on a wide array of topics related to being a female backpacker, including safety tips when in the backcountry solo, hygiene regimens (or lack thereof), dealing with intense levels of horniness on trail, and much more.   We wrap the show with a pair of new segments- "things guys want to know about girls but are too afraid to ask" and "ambushing Zach with women's anatomy flashcards".  BRANWYN discount code: Use case “backpacker15” for 15% off at branwyn.com Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek10” here. [divider] Interview with Chaunce, Sauce, and guest panelist Lavender Chaunce Instagram  Sauce Instagram  Lavender Instagram  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:10 - Treasure Hunt: Find Zach’s socks to win a green juice travel pack from Organifi and a new pair of socks. Check out instagram for sock location!   00:05:52 - QOTD: What’s your favorite part of being a lady backpacker? 00:09:53 - Introducing Lavender 00:12:30 - What tips do you have for hiking alone and staying safe?  00:15:59 - Can you address how you’ve felt safety-wise, while backpacking? 00:24:54 - Lavender, what was your solo travel experience prior to the AT? 00:25:22 - How do you answer the question ‘Are you hiking alone?’?  00:27:27 - Elise, how do you assess whether someone is a danger to you or not? 00:30:38 - Have you ever hiked with groups or individuals you’ve met online? 00:33:32 - How do you get a significant other more comfortable with sleeping outside?  00:35:18 - How do you overcome the fear of sleeping alone?  00:37:37 - Any recommendations for curly hair when you’re on trail?  00:39:48 - Are cleaning wipes necessary?  00:41:05 - Is there a specific brand of cleaning wipes you’d recommend? 00:42:41 - How do you approach your skincare routine on the trail?  00:43:26 - What was your hygiene routine the first few days on trail vs. the last days?  00:46:03 - Have any of you used the backcountry bidet?  00:47:33 - How is the pee rag?  00:50:57 - How do you deal with coochie stink?  00:55:13 - Would you shave your head before a thru-hike?  00:56:42 - What is an undercut?  00:57:50 - How do you pee in a bottle without a cone? 00:63:01 - Do levels of horniness ever compare to levels of hunger on the trail?  00:66:13 - Is the trail a good environment for someone who is especially horny?  01:08:33 - Lavender, when you are hiking SOBO, how many others are starting within a day of you, in either direction?  01:12:32 - Do you bring sex toys on trail?  01:13:46 - What do you do to alleviate the horniness?  01:14:46 - Did you know anyone who brought toys on the trail?  01:17:57 - What’s your favorite “girly” items you can’t live without?  01:18:26 - What luxury items can you not live without on trail?  01:19:58 - What can guys do to normalize girl stuff on trail?  01:21:22 - Do you feel like you need to hide feminine products?  01:22:56 - How did you handle PMS on the trail?  01:23:22 - Do your levels of PMS symptoms change when you’re on trail vs. off trail?  01:25:10 - What birth control do you use on trail? Check out our first Girls Stuff episode for more conversation on this.  01:26:06 - How do you encourage other girls to backpack?  01:28:19 - Do you have people trying to meet up with you on the trail when you are public with your location?  01:36:08 - How do you deal if you’re always cold?  01:40:14 - What are the best underwear and bra brands to avoid chafing and wedgies? SEGMENTS “Things guys want to know about girls but are too afraid to ask” Anatomy Flashcards  5 Star Review Mail Bag  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined yet again by our old pal, Reptar.  Since we last chatted way back in 2018 (when we still had Kobe and Anthony Bourdain), Reptar has kept very busy- most notably being the co-star in a recent episode of Naked and Afraid.  We ask all the sophomoric questions you'd want to ask someone who earns fame through grit and genitalia, including how often his unmentionables rubbed against spiky things, what it's like to meet your survival partner in the nude, and mastering the proper angle to bend over when a camera is on you.  We also chat about finishing the PCT, his next documentary, and a new survivalist video game he's developing. We wrap the show with a few trail food ideas, a triple crown of dried fruit, and finding the precise line where peeing in water goes from cool to gross. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code "thetrek10" here.   Goodr discount code: Use code “backpacker15” to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15.   [divider] Interview with Andrew “Reptar” Forestell  Instagram The AT Experience (Documentary) Watch Naked & Afraid on Discovery Channel or Discovery+ on 9/5 at 8pm ET. 00:02:57 - QOTD: How long would you last on Naked & Afraid?  00:04:57 - Reminder: We are coming to Wisconsin and specifically to Delafield on October 13th and Fitchburg on the 15th. 00:06:17 - Reptar returns! See his previous episode here.  00:07:40 - What’s been going on with you since we last talked?  00:09:14 - Let’s talk about Naked & Afraid - how did you get involved? Can you explain the show to us?  00:10:31 - Is there a prize at the end of the 21 days?  00:11:27 - How did you get involved with the show?  00:12:16 - How did you “hit up” the people to try and be on Naked & Afraid?  00:12:48 - Did you revise your pitch or do you think it was just your persistence? Did you send a video?  00:13:30 - Do you have to send in dick pics to Naked & Afraid? Did they ever ask to see you naked? 00:13:47 - Do they let you apply in pairs?  00:14:37 - How much notice do you get before going on the show?  00:15:24 - What does “conditioning” for the show look like? 00:16:17 - How much of this is fitness training and how much is just wanting to look good naked?   00:16:42 - Did you hit up Yukon for tips beforehand?  00:19:02 - Did they tell you the type of climate or environment you’d be in before time?  00:20:42 - Was there any talk of a malaria vaccine?  00:23:53 - Do you think you got lucky with where you were?  00:24:45 - What is your naked encounter with your partner like? When do they tell you to take off your clothes? 00:26:25 - Did you use a satchel to cover yourself?  00:26:44 - Did you try to cover up?  00:27:52 - How soon after the initial meeting does the game show portion start?  00:28:50 - Do you get any supplies?  00:29:53 - What was your partner’s one item?  00:30:09 - Was it more difficult to navigate because of how strange the situation was?  00:32:48 - Did your partner’s study of mushrooms come in handy?  00:33:59 - Did your partner eat the mushrooms anyway?  00:34:38 - Did you feel like you and your partner pulled equal weight survival wise?  00:36:15 - How do you prepare cactus?  00:37:15 - Could you not slice the cactus with the machete? 00:38:26 - Would you still eat cactus today?  00:40:30 - What was the wildlife situation like?  00:49:45 - How did your hunger compare to hiker hunger?  00:52:04 - Are the camera crew allowed to eat or drink around you?  00:52:36 - Do you have to think about not bending over and exposing your bare butt hole?  00:54:48 - Was there ever a time where you got a little “excited” and had to hide it?  00:56:58 - Did you ever hear creepy noises coming from African animals? 001:01:28 - What is your sleep setup? 01:02:20 - Did you guys weave blankets?  01:05:00 - How cold was it at night? 01:07:26 - What kind of security blanket do you have in terms of the medical crew?  01:17:58 - When do you get your clothes back? What is the “re-clothing” like? 01:21:20 - Did you guys ever have a moment where you were ready to throw in the towel? 01:24:08 - How do people watch your episode of Naked & Afraid? Discovery Channel on basic cable or Discovery+ on September 5 at 8pm. 01:26:03 - Can we talk about your PCT Experience documentary? 01:28:30 - And is this the same story we interrogated you about?  01:29:42 - What were you carrying to achieve the shots you got?  Canon 5D Mark III Full Frame Camera 01:32:28 - When you are hiking and making a video like this, does it affect your hike?  01:36:16 - How many details can you share about the game you’re developing (Far North)?  01:42:00 - Do you have to feed your person regularly?  01:45:14 - Anything else BPR listeners should be aware of?  SEGMENTS 6 Trail Foods That Never Bore Me (No Matter How Much I Eat) by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of Dried Fruits Gross or not gross: When does a body of water get too small to pee in?  Mail Bag Eel Facts 5 Star Reviews  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.    A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we have a lively conversation with the crew at Outdoor F.U.T.U.R.E., a diverse coalition working to ensure that nature’s transformational powers are accessible to all of our nation’s youth.  We chat about the organization's goal of a federal equity fund, why you can't plug your ears and demand that politics stay out of the outdoors, how inequality affects outdoor access, and much more.  We wrap the show with a bizarre story of a former professor being suspected of starting several fires in California, a gross or not gross about dogs eating human body fluids, and a very important correction to the record of my shoeless etiquette on airplanes. This episode was recorded on Arapahoe, Ute, Cheyenne and Shoshone land. [divider] Listen Download this episode. [divider] CONFIRM CURRENT: Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code "trek10" here. [divider] Interview with Outdoor F.U.T.U.R.E. Team Gabaccia Moreno Jaylyn Gough Teresa Martinez Gabe Vasquez Jessica Loya Ángel Peña Carissa 00:02:30 - QOTD: How have your backpacking plans gone to shit as of late?  00:11:02 - Reminder! Backpacker Radio Wisconsin Meetups — Wednesday, October 13 at Delafield Brewhaus and Friday, October 15 at Hop Haus in Fitchburg 00:12:04 - Welcome Gabaccia Moreno, Jalen Goff, Gabe Vasquez and Teresa Martinez of Outdoor F.U.T.U.R.E. 00:13:00 - Introduction to Gabe Vasquez 00:13:56 - Everyone, when you introduce yourselves, can you tell us how you initially got into the outdoors?   00:17:32 - Introduction to Gabaccia Morreno  00:19:43 - Do you have a favorite form of outdoor recreation? Is that hunting?  00:20:45 - Are you a Bills fan?  00:21:21 - Introduction to Jalen Goff 00:28:29 - Introduction to Teresa Martinez  00:35:06 - Can you talk a little bit about the specifics of Outdoor F.U.T.U.R.E. and how you’ll achieve your goals?  00:35:20 - Introduction to Jessica Loya  00:40:44 - Do you know how far away we are from an outdoor equity fund? Is there a timeline? 00:48:29 - Go to outdoorfuture.org to offer your support for the Outdoor Future Act 00:49:43 - Where does the money come from for the initiative?  00:51:08 - If someone wants to give what’s the process? Go to Outdoorfuture.org. 00:51:41 - Introduction to Ángel Peña 00:53:33 - How are we gonna pay for it?  00:57:43 - Is it a bad strategic move to start with private funding? 01:00:26 - What does it look like in a dream world where Outdoor F.U.T.U.R.E. is successful in everything they do?  01:08:03 - What do you say to people who say “the outdoors are free” and “the outdoors are for everyone”? What are the fundamental inequities that underserved communities face in accessing the outdoors? 01:19:26 - What does it look like if Outdoor F.U.T.U.R.E. fails?  01:26:00 - Why do you think that is (that POC are polling to call for more protection of the outdoors)? 01:30:34 - What do you say to people who don’t want to “bring politics” into the outdoors? 01:37:54 - What is the takeaway message that you’d like to leave for our listeners? 01:41:10 - F.U.T.U.R.E. stands for Fund for Underrepresented and Tribal, Urban, and Rural Equity 01:48:00 - Rapid fire for Zach and Chaunce Mezcal or Patron Soft or Crunchy Corn or Flour Green chili or Jalapenos  Red or Green (chili)  Rolled or Flat Taco or Burrito Smothered or on the side  Selena or Shakira Do you know whose land you are on?  What does allyship and equity look like to you? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  Former University Professor Held on Suspicion of Arson Near PCT Did Zach actually say he goes barefoot in the airplane bathroom? Give us a timestamp Listener Gross or Not Gross Would you rather eat boogers or goose poop?  Mail Bag   [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas. 

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Scott Carney.  Scott's early career as an investigative journalist had him debunking fake gurus and charlatans.  When he was put on assignment by Playboy Magazine more than a decade ago to do the same with a Dutch daredevil- named Wim Hof- Scott assumed this would be more of the same.  What ensued was Scott being enthralled by Wim, his famous breathing and cold exposure techniques, as well as the circus that surrounded the Wim Hof experience.  We talk all about Scott's time with Wim, what it was like to summit Kilimanjaro with him in just 28 hours (when it typically takes closer to 5 days), how Wim is potentially becoming more of a charlatan today, and much more.  I found this conversation to be fascinating, I hope you do too. We wrap the show with Chaunce having an undesirable virus, a debate on the proper number of times to knot your shoelaces, a triple crown of toys from when we were young, and much more. Organifi: Use code "backpacker" for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code "trek10" here. Goodr discount code: Use code “backpacker15” to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15. Path Projects: Go to pathprojects.com and let them know BPR sent you. [divider] Reminders: BPR is looking for an intern. Interview with Scott Carney: Instagram  Facebook  Twitter  Book Trailer Buy The Wedge  00:07:05 - QOTD: What’s the coldest you’ve ever been? 00:16:00 - How did you get into investigative journalism?  00:20:33 - You mentioned trekking around Nepal — what kind of trekking were you doing? Content warning: Discussion of suicide. 00:21:13 - So can you talk about how you specifically became involved with debunking fake gurus and charlatains?  00:24:09 - Is it mostly westerners that the effects you were studying impacted?  End content warning. 00:25:08 - Were people literally watching a corpse rot?  00:28:42 - Is Tantra tied to psychotropic breathing at all? 00:29:27 - Is there anything else you want to add about your career of debunking gurus? Would you say it’s more so tied to philosophy or the people?  00:32:22 - Why is there a theme of gurus having sex with people?  Drukpa Kunley 00:35:48 - How did you get set up on the assignment to debunk Wim Hof?  00:37:13 - Have people ever died of hypothermia trying to do this?  00:38:31 - Did you keep an open mind at all? Or were you sure Wim Hof was a fake?  00:39:00 - Is drinking part of the retreats? 00:40:52 - Can you pinpoint what opened your mind to him when you were learning about Wim’s methods?  00:45:00 - Read Scott’s book — ”What Doesn’t Kill You” 00:48:50 - What about Wim Hof is so compelling?  00:51:50 - Did the results of the study on Wim Hof’s techniques surprise you or catch you off guard?  00:53:44 - Can you explain the physiological response that happens when you do the breathing?  00:57:55 - How important would you say the meditation process is after doing a few rounds of the Wim Hof method? 01:00:00 - Do you still practice daily? 01:02:20 - Do you do the breathing and cold in conjuncture? 01:02:50 - What’s the name of your fancy ice bath? 01:05:20 - Are you supposed to try to visualize something warm? Or do you just take the cold head on? 01:05:50 - Do you think it’s a physical adaptation or a mental adaptation?  01:09:14 - What is that line in terms of finding your limits?01:10:33 - Is brown fat more activated by bare skin exposure? Rather than when clothed?  01:11:05 - Can you accumulate more brown fat via cold exposure? And how does that relate to the wedge?  01:13:00 - Wim Hof has a twin brother — do they have similar amounts of brown fat? 01:16:07 - Is there a performance benefit to these methods?  01:19:31 - What is the application of the breathing technique and cold exposure for people doing long distance hikes?  01:23:51 - Take us through the story of how you eventually went back to Europe and then Africa to hike Kilimanjaro with Wim Hof?  01:25:27 - And you guys were going for a record?  01:26:39 - What is the average time for a summit of Mt.Kilimanjaro? 01:26:51 - Were you doing the breathing technique the whole time you were hiking or during breaks? 01:27:04 - When you do the practice at home do you do it the same way each time? Do you ever use nostril breathing? 01:28:00 - Wim likes your book even though there’s a chapter that doesn’t look at him in the most favorable way?  01:34:16 - Have you ever thought about approaching Wim about how people are taking his methods out of context? 01:36:24 - Is there a book in the intertwined nature of social media and putting people on pedestals? 01:36:58 - Can you talk about your books?  01:38:53 - So you do a macro dose of MDMA with psychiatrists?  01:39:45 - Is your book an audio book? 01:40:00 - If you had to pick one element from The Wedge as very beneficial, what would it be?  01:41:01 - You also posted recently about The Vortex?    SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda One Simple Trick to Keep Your Shoelaces Tied on Your Next Hike by Owen Eigenbrot Triple Crown of Toys From When You Were Young Mail Bag [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas. 

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are bringing you another advice based show.  Today's episode is all about how to afford a thru-hike, which includes overall tips for how to budget, how much to budget, what items you can skimp on, what items you should splurge on, tools for automating the process, and much more.    We wrap the show with a triple crown of items that we love for less than $25, a wild story about a multi-day grizzly bear attack, and we discuss whether a calendar year triple crown is anti-thetical to the thru-hiking ethos.   QOTD: How long is the lifespan of a fly/mosquito? And why aren’t dead ones all over the ground?  BPR is doing a live podcast at Hop Haus in Fitchburg, Wisconsin from 6:00pm - 8:00pm on Friday, October 15. How to Afford a Thru-Hike ebook by Kelly Floro Tip #1 (Chaunce): Use apps that set aside money for you. Apps mentioned (not sponsored): Qapital Betterment  Acorns Wealthfront Tip #2 (Zach): Know what gear to splurge on. Specifically: Footwear Shelter Sleeping bag/quilt Tip #3 (Elise): Leverage the Financial Independence community (and finding your Coast FI number for peace of mind). Some FI resources: The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins Quit Like A Millionaire by Kristy Shen and Bryce Leung The Choose FI podcast  MoneywithKatie on Instagram Coast FI caclulator   Tip #4 (Chaunce): Budget smart while you’re actually on trail.  Tip #5 (Zach): Know where to skimp on gear. Specifically:  Headlamp Base layer Rain gear Water filter Sunglasses And more   Tip #6 (Elise): Figure out how much your life actually costs, then figure out how to cut further or earn more.  Tip #7 (Chaunce): Take on a side job where all earnings are specifically for thru-hiking. Some ideas: Uber/Lyft Instacart Rover   Tip #8 (Zach): Decide how much you think your thru-hike will cost, then add 20%. Tipe #9 (Elise): Surround yourself with people who either support your goals or have similar ones. SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  Colleen Goldhorn’s Posts Triple Crown of things to spend $25 on Gross or Not Gross Zach being barefoot on an airplane Mail Bag Cinnamon Court  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, and Patrick Cianciolo. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas. 

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Rachael "Rabbit" Delano. Rabbit is a triple crowner, yogi, trail junkie, and currently in an ongoing battle with the Colorado Trail.  We learn about how the discovery of thru-hiking was a true fork in the road for Rachael, as the other path was leading toward a very dark place (much like our episode with Second Chance, for those who are triggered by talks of suicide, we encourage you to skip to about 15 minutes into the interview).  We talk about the highs and lows of each of Rabbit's triple crown hikes.  We learn which yoga poses she most recommends for hikers and backpackers.  And why the Colorado Trail keeps kicking her ass! We wrap the show with a discussion on why backcountry campfires might need to become a thing of the past, at least in the West, we do a triple crown of things that ruin a day hike, and introduce a new segment- Hiker Trash Board Confessionals.  But first. Organifi: Use code "backpacker" for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code "trek10" here. Path Projects: Go to pathprojects.com and let the know BPR sent you. [divider] Interview with Rachael “Rabbit” Delano Instagram  Website Youtube CONTENT WARNING: Discussion of suicide  00:05:08 - QOTD: What are your upcoming backpacking plans? 00:08:23 - Wisconsin Hiker Meetup on Wednesday, October 13th @ Delafield BrewHaus 00:09:30 - What is your thru-hiking resume?  00:14:36 - Can you put a finger on what about your life was not satisfactory? 00:16:40 - did you go straight from New York to the AT? 00:16:50 - What was the timeline from being at your lowest to starting the AT?  00:17:13 - And all you had seen at that point was a Katahdin photo? 00:17:32 - Did you have a feeling hiking would be your salvation? Or were you just willing to try anything?  00:18:12 -  Do you experience being just done with hiking? Or are you just ready to go again?  00:19:42 - What was the experience like going back home after the AT?  END CONTENT WARNING 00:21:30 - How fat is Zach’s baby’s cheeks?  00:22:39 - Do you do morning yoga on the trail?  00:23:31 - What does the process of becoming a yoga instructor look like?  00:24:49 - How much of yoga teacher training is the movement and how much is the origin of yoga? 00:26:43 - Is it hard to memorize the names of all the different yoga positions?  00:28:10 - What are the core tenets of being a good yoga teacher? 00:29:07 - Have you ever laughed at someone farting in your class?  00:31:40 - Are there good poses for helping with digestion? 00:32:53 - Do you have a series of go to moves for hiking?  00:35:34 - Are there good movements that can help you sleep?  00:37:50 - Can you tell us about breath work?  00:42:40 - Any more moves for backpackers?  00:46:58 - Do you have a go to yoga sign off?  00:48:35 - Does it matter what color you imagine (based on color psychology)?  00:54:31 - Can you talk about the intersection of breathing techniques and managing anxiety? 00:56:48 - Is there a resource or tool you’ve found for different techniques for managing anxiety? 00:58:28 - Were there any major themes you took away from your three big hikes?  01:00:37 - What happened with your near death experience on the PCT?  01:10:02 - Did you sleep through the night?  01:10:41 - Did the snow melt the next day? What was the trail like?  01:13:15 - Can you tell us the story of you getting swept away during a creek crossing in the Sierra in 2017?  01:19:00 - What were you thinking when this was happening? 01:19:21 - What did you do after you got back to the bank you came from? 01:22:19 - PCTA has a good resource for water crossings and formations for different group sizes Stream Crossing Safety 01:23:28 - Was it hard for you to put ego aside?  01:25:26 - If someone is planning to do their first thru-hike on the PCT in an average to above average snow year, what advice would you have for them?  01:30:23 - What were your takeaways from the CDT?  01:33:54 - Why would you stay on the CDT if you could?  01:34:36 - Where were the mosquitoes the worst?  01:34:55 - What percent of the CDT do you think you did by yourself?  01:37:11 - Was it challenging to not see many other people?  01:40:05 - Do you think more people stick together because the CDT has much fewer hikers? 01:41:29 - What is Hadrian’s Wall like? Is it social?  01:42:28 - Did you want to do something longer since you were going so far?  01:43:26 - Did you still do big days or did you go slower since it was shorter?  01:46:36 - How tall is the wall?  01:47:44 - Anything else about Hadrian’s Wall? 01:56:14 - What is the goal of redoing the Copper - Breckenridge section over and over? 01:58:00 - What is the significance of your trail name?  SEGMENTSTrek Propaganda  Backcountry Campfires: A Relic of the Past by Paul Magnanti Triple Crown of Things That Will Ruin Your Day Hike Chaunce: forgetting sunscreen, not leaving early enough, lack of vigilance (because you’re almost done) Rabbit: air quality, calf cramps, creepy dudes  Zach: thunderstorms above tree line, running out of food/being hungry Hiker Trashboard Confessional [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.    A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, and Patrick Cianciolo. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are trying new things!  In lieu of an interview, myself alongside Chaunce and Sauce (Elise), cover some of the most common beginner backpacking mistakes.  Because we here at Backpacker Radio can occasionally steer off-topic, we wanted to experiment with an episode dedicated to what the show's title implies.  Backpacking stuff.  These pointers run the full spectrum, from massive mistakes, to minor gaffes.  Regardless of where you are in your backpacking evolution, we think you'll walk away from this one with some very useful insight. But first.   Organifi: Use code "backpacker" for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code "trek10" here. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. [divider] Panel with Elise (Sauce), Chaunce, and Zach 00:06:39 - QOTD: Is the left ball lower and your main child bearing ball?  00:10:08 - We are going to Wisconsin! 00:13:11 - Mistake #1 from Zach: Not doing shakedown hikes 00:17:41 - A shakedown hike is more than just narrowing down your gear! 00:18:52 - Mistake #2 from Chaunce: Put your phone on airplane mode when you do practice hikes. 00:23:25 - Mistake #3 from Elise: Not knowing how to properly filter your water. 00:30:33 - Mistake #4 from Zach: Buying gear beyond your skill set/experience.  00:40:52 - Mistake #5 from Chaunce: Being too firm on your hike and not allowing flexibility based on the elements. 00:50:00 - Mistake #6 from Elise: Research the gear that is right for YOU. 00:54:47 - Mistake #7 from Zach: Mental prep might be more important than any other kind of prep. 00:59:49 - Mistake #8 from Chaunce: Not practicing communicating with your sattelite device in multiple types of coverage. 01:06:27 - Mistake #9 from Elise: Trying to keep up with people above your fitness level.   No Segments!  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.    A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, and Patrick Cianciolo. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Second Chance Hiker. In 2018, Cory McDonald, aka Second Chance, was bored, depressed, and north of 400 pounds. After his doctor told him that he was headed for a heart attack if he didn't make some serious changes, Second Chance uprooted his life, and committed to hiking the PCT with the goal of losing 200 lb in the process. We learn all about the highs and lows Cory confronted during his trek, including how he got a girlfriend, and why he ultimately got off trail in very dramatic fashion. Second Chance shares what he's been up to since the PCT, including treks in Croatia and through the crocodile filled swamps of Florida. A very important warning to listeners, this episode does touch on some sensitive subject matter, especially conversations of panic attacks and suicide. If this may be triggering for you, we encourage you to skip to the end of the interview after Cory talks about his Florida Trail hike.  We wrap the show with a triple crown of things we're terrible at, some history of why the Appalachian Trail doesn't have switchbacks, and a follow up on James Jordan's trial verdict.  

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Alison Young.  Alison has a world-class radio voice, is a super accomplished backpacker, with a long list of thru-hikes, a former professional flutist and classic music aficionado, and the host and producer of The Trek's newest podcast, Walking Distance.  We get a crash course in all things classical music, including how Lizzo ranks alongside some of the historical greats, we talk in depth about Alison's many treks, especially her international hikes (prepare to expand your bucket list), we talk about what it's like to do long distance backpacking trips into your 50s and how she manages with two fake hips, and much more.  This is a fun conversation that hits on some really unique subject matter, we think you'll really enjoy it. We wrap the show with the most bizarre triple crown we've ever done- I'll leave it at that, we have another gross / not gross, and we learn why redheads experience less pain, spoiler alert, it's not due to their lacking a soul. Good To-Go: Use code "TREK25" to save 25% off your order here. OnX deal: This month, get a 1 year membership for $10 with all proceeds going to Leave No Trace. Learn more at onxmaps.com/greatoutdors. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code "trek10" here. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “poopstory” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. [divider] Interview with Alison Young Blissful Hiker Walking Distance Podcast Alison's Instagram QUESTIONS 00:04:30 - QOTD: which is easier, eating a little or eating nothing?  00:05:37 - We are coming to Wisconsin!  00:06:29 - Welcome Alison Young! 00:07:52 - How did you get into backpacking?  00:11:48 - Can we talk about your career as a flutist?  00:14:00 - What is the life of a professional flute player?  00:15:56 - Can you tell us more about your career at American Public Media?  00:18:30 - Was it difficult to go from being the star of the show to being the cheerleader? 00:20:30 - What is Dystonia?  00:22:10 - Does your Dystonia affect backpacking at all?  00:22:53 - Is trying to play with Dystonia a mind fuck?  00:25:24 - Did your surgeon think your backpacking contributed to your hip replacement? 00:27:31 - What is the next step people should take to go deeper into the classical music world?  00:31:30 - How many times have you watched the movie Fantasia?  00:33:30 - If you could only listen to one classical song for an entire thru-hike, what would it be?  Gustav Mahler from Songs of a Wayfarer  00:38:49 - Will you tell us about the Drakensberg Traverse?  00:40:59 - Was there any standout wildlife on that trek?  00:42:08 - Did the baboons ever get aggressive? 00:43:35 - How long is that hike?  00:43:40 - Were you carrying all your food?  00:45:33 - Were people confused about what you were doing?  00:47:08 - Are you being conscious about your food around the baboons?  00:48:45 - Go on about Isle Royale?  00:51:04 - How are you sleeping knowing there’s wolves around you?  00:52:32 - What are you supposed to do if you see a wolf?  00:54:53 - How long was your Isle Royale hike? 00:55:38 - What time of year were you there?  00:55:58 - How were the mosquitoes?  00:57:48 - Can you pronounce that region again? “Kekekabic”  00:59:03 - Do people thru-hike the Border Route Trail?  01:03:20 - If you could redo one international hike, which would it be? The Karakoram in Pakistan 01:06:33 - What’s going through your mind when doing a water crossing like that?  01:10:05 - How does your spouse handle you being away for months at a time?  01:13:46 - Can you talk about your decision to not have kids, etc.?  01:15:52 - Can we talk about the GR5?  01:19:46 - Do you have advice for someone who is not the typical 20-something that wants to start backpacking?  01:22:34 - Do you do anything besides walking to get in shape for backpacking? Yoga, etc.?  01:25:36 - Will you give us the overview for Walking Distance?  01:34:28 - What inspired the CDT? Can you talk about your upcoming adventure?  01:37:10    SEGMENTS Lizzo Playing the Flute The Longest Trail by Jonathan Horwitz Triple crown of Desserts  Gross or Not Gross Zach picked a booger and felt it in his throat 1-Minute Gear Review: Premature Evaluation — Platypus Quickdraw  Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT and Lindsay Sparks.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by the show's third co-host at this point, the real hiking viking.  We do a deep dive on every inch of Jabba's recent hike of the Hayduke, including the challenges of long water carries, regular exposure to 100-plus degree days, navigating the route, and some truly epic stories, including a trail magic rafting trip through the Grand Canyon.  Whether you want to learn about the Hayduke or are simply craving some more Jabba time, this one will not disappoint. We wrap the show with a triple crown of things that ruin your day, Chaunce explains why you can't get a vaccine until after you've done your taxes, and we get some more horse facts, chicken edition. Good To-Go: Use code "TREK25" to save 25% off your order here.  OnX deal: This month, get a 1 year membership for $10 with all proceeds going to Leave No Trace. Learn more at onxmaps.com/greatoutdors. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code "trek10" here.  Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “poopstory” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. [divider] Interview with Jabba aka The Real Hiking Viking QOTD: Aliens and ghosts. SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 100-Mile Wilderness Designated International Dark Sky Park by Tina Mullen Man and 2-Year-Old Son Found Dead on Maryland AT in Apparent Murder-Suicide by Kelly Floro  Triple Crown of Mundane Things that Ruin Your Day Gross or Not Gross Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT and Lindsay Sparks.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by recurring guest, Steph Lotus aka Weezer, and her good pal, Dirty Avocado, as the duo recently wrapped a thru-hike of the Arizona Trail. This one is the mid-point between a trail overview and first person narrative of their journey, including some mild tragedy, comedy, and romance. We wrap the show with a triple crown of desert things, we tease the new Trail Correspondents season, and we are blessed with a bison poop story. Advertise on Backpacker Radio

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Gossamer Gear founder Glen Van Peski.  We learn all about the origins of Gossamer Gear, including how the company would not be in existence today without the founder of Whole Foods.  We learn about some of Glen's proudest gear innovations, including the crotch pot.  We walk about how he's able to manage a three pound base weight, future gear innovations in the world of backpacking, and much more. We wrap the show with a triple crown of Leonardo DiCaprio movies, Jabba gives us an impromptu lesson on scrotums from the Hayduke, and we bring back one-minute gear reviews. Check out Walking Distance wherever you listen to podcasts. OnX discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Picky Bars discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 20% off $25 Picky Bars. Goodr discount code: Use code “backpacker15” to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15. Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to save 25% at reelpaper.com [divider] Interview with Glen Van Peski Gossamer Gear Blog [divider] QOTD: What’s the strangest thing you’ve done in the last week?  00:11:09 - Backpacker Radio is going to Wisconsin in October! 00:12:40 - Listeners, are you close to Wisconsin? Do you want to come see us? Let us know where?  00:14:30 -Welcome Glen Van Peski!  00:14:52 - How did you originally get into backpacking?  00:15:58 - Are you still  in Massachusetts? 00:16:47 - Can you give us a run through of your notable backpacking trips?  00:17:57 - What is the typical length of your backpacking trips? 00”18:21 - What began the foray into making your own gear? 00:20:07 -  At this point did the lightbulb go off that there was a market opportunity? Or were you just sewing for yourself?  00:23:07 - How quickly did you sell through your first 50 packs?  00:23:57 - What was your full time job at that point?  00:24:40 - Do you remember what the run of 50 packs cost you? 00:25:40 - Can you walk me through the initial scaling of the business? What happened after the first 50 packs?  00:28:03 - What is your day-to-day involvement at this point? And was it called Gossamer Gear?  00:29:15 - What year was it at this point? 00:29:59 - It sounds like you were hitting you stride right when credit card processing became a thing?  00:31:22 - Is the G420 the same as the original G4?  00:32:26 - How collaborative are cottage gear companies with each other?  00:34:30 - Can you talk more about the evolution from GVP Gear to Gossamer Gear?  00:40:20 - What is your involvement today?  00:41:21 - Is the cooking  system you’re working on the Crotch Pot?  00:43:11 - Can you share the story of your gear choice during  your hike in the High Sierra?  00:46:27 - Did the weight sitting lower on your body change the way your muscles reacted? Were you sore in different places?  00:46:57 - Was there anything you left out to make that volume work?  00:48:50 - How do you get under 3 pounds for your base weight?  00:51:22 - How would you describe your interest in UL backpacking?  00:53:25 - How much Gossamer Gear stuff are you using on your hikes?  00:54:09 - Can you walk us through the inception of The One?  00:55:11 - What challenges did you run into with the DCF version of The One?  00:57:33 - Can you explain what DCF is and outline some of the feature benefits of the fabric over all?  00:59:28 - What is Oxford? 00:59:33 - Do you  think DCF is worth the rage? Is it overhyped or properly hyped?  01:00:55 - Do you see any fabrics in the pipeline that could be as disruptive as DCF?  01:03:14 - What is in your go-to first aid backpacking kit? 01:04:50 - Why do you think you are interested in being of service to others?  01:06:00 -  Is this something that translates to your life over all? Outside of backpacking?  01:09:54 - What are some of your favorite non-Gossamer Gear gear choices?  Zpacks BluffWorks YAthletics Ministry of Supply 01:11:40 - Can you speak truth to the fact that there are people who buy The One as a two-person tent?  01:15:28 - What is the oldest piece of gear that you backpack with today?  01:16:26 - Your sleep socks haven’t gotten holes?  01:16:48 - Are we going to see the 6 oz tent in the Gossamer Gear store soon?  01:17:58 - Do you see any gear that will be mainstream in thru-hiking in the near future?  01:18:51- Do you use your tent stakes as chopsticks?  01:20:50 - Do you  have any other gear redundancies? Checkout Mayfly Ultralight 01:22:44 - Any parting words to the backpackers of the world? 01:23:33 - Is there any part of you that craves luxuries while backpacking?  01:25:05 - Where should people go find you?  Gossamer Gear Blog SEGMENTS   The Best Time of Year to Hike These 23 Popular Long Trails by Eloise Robbins Triple Crown of Leonardo DiCaprio Movies Call with Jabba!  What are questions women have about men but are too afraid to ask?  1-Minute Gear Review  Chaunce - Book Stand  Zach - Hoka Challenger ATR 6 Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT and Lindsay Sparks. 

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by my good bud, Nicole Antoinette.  Nicole is a thru-hiker, entrepreneur, podcast host, and all around magnetic personality.  We talk about overcoming imposture syndrome in the world of backpacking, why the stereotypical thru-hiking style of big miles, ramen, and cramped motel rooms isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, accepting failure, sobriety, and much more.  This is a lively conversation; you will enjoy it. We wrap the show a triple crown of kitchen gadgets, we officially unveil the destination for our 2021 Backpacker Radio Road Trip, and someone gets poop in their hair. OnX discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Picky Bars discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 20% off $25 Picky Bars. Goodr discount code: Use code “backpacker15” to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15. Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to save 25% at reelpaper.com Interview with Nicole Antoinette Instagram QOTD: You have one hour to spend $10,000 in one store, what store are you choosing? 00:07:58 - Nicole, if we meet you on a hike, what is your clif notes introduction to somebody? 00:10:10 - What is it that pays the bills these days? 00:12:36 - Will you please plug your podcast? 00:13:10 - Why did you archive all your instagram  posts? 00:15:44 - What  influenced your decision to scrap things (off instagram)? 00:19:21 - How do you pursue what the next thing is without using a passion as the igniter for that? 00:21:21 - Can you talk about your questioning monogamy phase?  00:23:49 - Have you always been so self-aware? 00:25:45 - Do you meditate at all? 00:26:30 - How did you transition from running to backpacking? 00:30:14 - How did you end up thru-hiking the PCT after being hurt after the Oregon section? 00:33:35 - How long before you are planning your next backpacking trip?  00:37:55 - What made you start to enjoy backpacking? 00:40:11 - Where are you from? 00:40:23 - Were there any concrete things you changed that helped you enjoy the experience?  00:46:14 - How did you find the balance between not being afraid and being comfortable on your own? 00:47:29 - How did you cope with loneliness? 00:49:28 - Is Chaunce an introvert or extrovert? 00:51:49 - Did you get more music? 00:55:29 - Between Ice Ice Baby and the Safety Dance which song would you put on your phone if you could only choose one? 00:56:00 - If an extrovert is considering going on a hike solo, do you have any advice for them? 01:00:16  - Can we talk about your SOBO PCT hike next? 01:02:20 - What does a social life look like on a southbound thru-hike?  01:03:26 - When was your start date?  01:04:56 - How did the SOBO PCT hike live up to expectations? 01:08:47 - Can you talk about the perception of not completing your thru-hike? 01:12:35 - What value do you get out of saying your PCT hike was a failure? 01:22:27 - Did you feel that having your own community established before you started backpacking helped? 01:24:10 - Do you think you could quit more gracefully because you’ve established your confidence in other areas of your life? 01:28:21 - How much did you encounter party culture on the PCT and how was it as a sober hiker?  01:30:35 - Do you have any advice for sober people hoping to hike?  01:36:31 - Do you mind talking about the evolution of your relationships? 01:37:23 - What role did the thru-hike play in the end of your marriage? 01:42:20 - How did you transition into your current relationship? 01:47:25 - When are you doing the Colorado Trail? 01:48:00 - Where can people find you? Instagram SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  Desk-Bound Engineer to Professional Backpacking Guide in 1 Year by Dan Purdy Apply to be a writer for The Trek Backpacker Radio Road Trip Announcement! Triple Crown of Kitchen Tools Gross or Not Gross Leo’s Blowouts Chaunce Picking People’s Scabs Reddit Brain Buster You’re a burglar…but you can only steal things that mildly inconvenience your victims. What are you taking?  ex: the plate that goes in the microwave  Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT and Lindsay Sparks. 

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by legendary Appalachian Trail trail angel, Miss Janet.  We learn about how cute boys was her gateway back to the trail in the 70s, the history of how people learned about and communicated around the trail, and why she's dedicated so much of her life to helping AT hikers.  We also touch on some hot button issues surrounding the trail, including when trail magic crosses the line, the impact of partying on the trail, and what she sees as a solution to the abundance of trash in some of the more popular areas. We wrap the show with a triple crown of bad farts, Chaunce and I answer some listener questions, and who do you think you are? I am!   OnX discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to save 25% at reelpaper.com Picky Bars discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 20% off $25 Picky Bars. [divider] Interview with Miss Janet Instagram Themissjanet@gmail.com QOTD: What has been your best trail magic experience? Are fish worth it?  00:16:21 - Pop Quiz - what year did Miss Janet and Badger meet?  00:17:05 - Can you tell me about your upbringing and the confluence of getting involved with the AT?  00:18:22 - Why were you afraid of the first hiker you saw on the AT?  00:19:55 - Do you remember what year it was the first time you met an AT hiker?  00:22:50 - What interesting things happened on the AT in 1985? 00:26:38 - Is your mom still in Erwin today? Is she still part of the AT experience?  00:29:36 - What happens in between you being introduced to the AT and you opening  your own hostel? 00:32:30 - So you were surprised by the sheer amount of hikers when you moved back to Erwin? 00:36:14 - When you started your hostel were there enough hikers to support two hostels?  00:40:35 - What year did you start your hostel? 00:41:08 - How did people know which hostel to go to in the late 90’s? 00:42:48 - Why were you banned from the email list? 00:47:56 - How many people drop out by the time they hit Mountain Crossing? 00:50:58 - What are people’s reasoning for not registering with the ATC? 00:54:55 - How do you calculate how many people are vlogging their AT hike?  00:55:41 - Have you noticed that people are starting early and earlier every year?  00:57:27 - Would you advocate for a daily cap on the AT like the PCT?  01:01:03 - Can you talk about that photograph that came out last year with all the trash on Max Patch? 01:02:02 - Are there efforts made by trail angels to relay the importance of LNT? 01:04:58 - Don’t leave out styrofoam coolers if you aren’t coming back for them. 01:07:14 - What are your thoughts on the difference between trail magic and hiker feeds?  01:14:06 - Have you noticed that at every major road crossing there’s so much trail magic that hikers have come to just expect it?  01:17:37 - Have you noticed thru-hiker entitlement as time has gone on? 01:23:43 - How would you define the AT experience? 01:26:30 - How would you define what an AT thru-hike looks like?  01:35:31 - is there any consistent theme to the gap between what people are expecting and what they end up actually experiencing?  01:40:42 - How often do you end up being the AT therapist? 01:43:40 -How often do you think hikers get off because they are bored? 01:47:10 - Can you bridge the gap between Miss Janet’s hostel and the Miss Janet that trail angels up and down the AT? 01:49:30 - How much of the trail had you hiked prior to that?  01:54:15 - Would you trade your hiking style for making it all the way to Katadhin?   01:55:58 - How did you go from hostels to doing traveling trail angeling?  01:58:00 - What is it about the trail that keeps you coming back? What is it that you love about the people and culture?  02:09:17 - Where can people find Miss Janet?  Instagram Themissjanet@gmail.com SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  AT Killer James Jordan Not Guilty By Reason of Insanity Trail Profile: How to Hike the 96-Mile Lone Star Hiking Trail by Katie Houston Triple Crown of Bad Farts Listener Q&A Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT and Lindsay Sparks. 

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Ben Crawford of the Crawford Family.  In 2018, Ben Crawford, along with his wife Kami, and their six kids, ages between two and sixteen years old, thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail.  We learn all about the unique challenges of this undertaking, including how to keep kids spirits high when hiking in snow for over a month, what their gear system looked like, and how they handled a very mixed reception from the online hiking community.  This conversation also takes some wlid turns including how Ben and Kami were excommunicated from their Christian Missionary group, how he hit the jackpot as a blackjack card counter, and why he doesn't school his kids (either in the traditional sense or with homeschooling).   We wrap the show by announcing the winners of our big episode 100 giveaway, we have a triple crown of villains, and we get some horse facts, llama edition. OnX discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Greenbelly discount code: Use code: "TREK2021" to save 10% sitewide at greenbelly.co Goodr discount code: Use code “backpacker15” to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15 Check out Hikerlink.co to connect with hiker trash past, present and future. Interview with Ben Crawford  Instagram Youtube  2,000 Miles Together (Book)  Their AT documentary  Holy Rollers: The True Story of Cound Carting Christians 00:04:41: QOTD: What is your favorite crossfit lift?  00:10:00 - Welcome Ben Crawford of the Crawford Family 00:10:14 - Give us the full breakdown of how you got started on the AT 00:12:04 - Does the government have it’s own branded peanut butter?  00:14:00 - Did you have a family to look up to before starting the trail?  00:16:10 - Can you do a run through of the kids and their ages?  00:17:56 - Are you and your wife still religious?  00:18:46 - Why were you excommunicated?  00:20:15 - When you were excommunicated did you lose all of your friends? Or did you have friends outside the church? 00:21:25 - What led you to start questioning what was happening around you? 00:24:50 - When did you make the leap from realizing your kids were physically capable to deciding to hike the AT?  00:28:31 - When did you start the trail and when did you plan to finish?  00:29:20 - Can you tell us how cold it was in March when you started?  00:30:41 - What were the hikers around you saying seeing a family that big with temperatures that low?  00:32:14 - Were the kids carrying their own gear? What was your overall gear system and setup? 00:33:20 - What tent did you have for the kids?  00:37:30 - What is your strategy for keeping morale up for the whole family?  00:40:28 - What was your parenting style that created adventurous, outdoorsy kids?  00:44:20 - Is there any science to show that it’s bad for kids to over exert themselves at such a young age?  00:47:07 - Can you talk about CPS getting involved while you were out on trail?  00:49:51 - How did you deal with people talking about you online?  00:51:07 - What happened when the government was called?  00:55:00 - You think the person who called on you did so from youtube?  00:56:29 - What is unschooling?  00:58:21 - Do you think your rejection of institutions and institutionalization comes from your upbringing in the church?  00:59:32 - Can you talk about your career and entrepreneurial pursuits? What was your business life like prior to the trail?  01:04:14 - How do you get people to start black jack?  01:04:26 - Holy Rollers: The True Story of Cound Carting Christians 01:05:18 - Do people need a certain background to be good at black jack?  01:06:46 - So is it against house rules?  01:09:28  - Have you always been good at math? And what skills are required to execute this? And What is it?  01:11:07 - So you need learning money?  01:12:04 - What’s the advantage without counting cards?  01:14:25 - How do kids learn math when they are doing unschooling? Or other things that are essential to doing “life” things? 01:16:45 - What about reading?  01:17:28 - Do you  have any sort of confines for the kids? Are there things kids have to do during the day?  01:20:58 - Is it easier for you to give 45k for your kids to build a house after doing black jack?  01:22:15 - What happened with the kids and the house? 01:22:36 - Are you teaching them the carpentry skills, etc.? 01:24:40 - Do you have any framework for how you go about something like giving the kids a house?  01:28:22 - Can you tell us the Katahdin story and the conclusion to your hike?  01:33:40 - How can people budget for a thru-hike? Or go outside the confines of a 9-5 to fund a hike?  SEGMENTS Episode 100 Winner: Package 1 Winner: Justin Cornell Package 2 Winner: Meredith Snyder Package 3 Winner: Henk Humes Honorable Mention for Chuck Lopez for putting all the show intros together Trek Propaganda Backcountry Guide Killed in Grizzly Bear Attack Near Yellowstone by Tina Mullen The Top Down Jackets for Backpacking The Top Synthetic Jackets for Backpacking Triple Crown of Villains (Fire Season Prediction for 2021: Grim) 'This has never happened': California's only wildfire research center makes scary discovery Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT and Lindsay Sparks.   

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dr. Freeborn Mondello. Freeborn, who is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, explodes our brains with some non-conventional advice for hikers, backpackers, and really any endurance athlete. This includes why stretching might be a waste of time, the importance of heavy weight resistance training, and why the traditional 3 sets of 10 reps is going to be counterproductive to your goals- and yes those last two points are not contradictory. Whether you're training for a hike or simply want to maintain good health, you'll find this conversation fascinating- we sure did. We wrap the show with a triple crown of days of the week, a new gross or not gross, and some good innovating pee pants for people with vaginas.   OnX Backcountry discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Greenbelly discount code: Use code: "TREK2021" to save 10% sitewide at greenbelly.co Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Check out Hikerlink.co to connect with hiker trash past, present and future. Interview with Dr.Freeborn Mondello RunfreePT.com Instagram - @runfreept Youtube - RunfreePT Free consults over video or in person — runfreept@gmail.com 00:04:30 - QOTD: What’s an injury you have that always comes back?  00:06:47 - Welcome Dr.Freeborn Mondello!  00:07:43 - You’ve done multiple iron man races? What does that entail?  00:10:09 - What is the chafe situation like after a 2.4 mile swim and immediately hopping onto a bike? 00:11:12 - Where have you done your iron man races?  00:12:48 - Did you consider throwing in the towel on the 106 degree day?  00:15:02 - You’re a champion mountain biker? 00:16:10 - How do you go from excelling at a sport where you use high twitch muscles to a sport that uses slow twitch muscles? 00:17:46 - Have you had your muscle twitch fibers measured?  00:18:49 - Is there any science to support being able to switch your muscle fiber types?  00:19:57 - So you grew up in Silver City near Gila National Forest?  00:20:30 - So you’ve been familiar with the CDT for a long time?  00:22:01 - How did you get into physical therapy? 00:25:19 - Is there anything cool you learned why getting your doctorate that most people wouldn’t know or expect?  00:27:00 - How much of a role does neurology play in PT?  00:30:26 - Can you explain dry needling? 00:34:10 - So it’s really your nervous system sometimes telling you that you can’t do something rather than your muscular system? 00:36:30 - Would an orthopedic surgeon have a different take? 00:37:14 - How do the mechanics of dry needling work? How far in does the needle go?  00:40:12 - Can you tell us about the performance enhancing aspect of dry needling? 00:42:41 - Is there something about dry needling that would make it against the rules?  00:44:06 - Does dry needling have a place in the context of a thru-hike? If this is their first time, are those dice worth rolling? 00:46:51 - Is dry needling more effective for acute injuries or chronic ones?  00:48:27 - How long does dry needling last? How often do people have to come back?  00:52:20 - How does the central nervous system play a role in weight training overall?  00:55:49 - Pavel’s kettlebell training video and Rogan interview  00:56:26 - Can you define hypertrophy vs. strength training?  00:59:27 - Do the nutritional requirements differ in hypertrophy vs. strength training?  01:03:08 - What would your protocol be for someone getting ready to hike in a couple months?  01:09:40 - Can strength training work with things you have at home?  01:14:20 - Are kettlebells that different from dumbells?  01:15:44 - If you’re on an island and you can only bring one kettle bell with you, what weight is it?  01:17:06 - How long are you supposed to swing kettlebells for?  01:18:57 - Don’t just buy a kettle bell and start swinging! 01:20:20 - Why is 80% the ideal number for optimal strength training?  01:23:40 - Why is strength training important for endurance sports? Why is doing deadlifts helpful for someone going on a thru-hike? 01:26:17 - Is stretching helpful? What role does it play in endurance sports?  01:30:12 - Is foam rolling helpful? Balls that roll out your muscles?  01:32:08 - Is it possible that foam rollers or lacrosse balls do help people or is it a placebo effect? 01:34:37 - So stretching can help flexibility, but that doesn’t necessarily help injury prevention?  01:36:04 - Can you talk about the difference between mobility and flexibility? 01:37:33 - So tension can just be solved with various workouts?  01:38:48 - What should someone look for to find a good physical therapist or a good personal trainer?  01:42:54 - Is being stretched to your full capacity after ACL surgery advisable?  01:43:53 - How can you tell the difference between an injury you need to rest and a sore muscle you can just push through?  01:46:34 - How do you open hip flexors to reduce lower back pain?  01:48:32 - What is your youtube channel? RunfreePT (five way hip drive)  01:49:52 - What is the best way to prevent shin splints?  01:52:08 - What can people do to help prevent foot issues?  01:56:02 - Is it a good idea to ease into minimalist shoes before a thru-hike? 01:59:00 - So it sounds like strength is the solution?  02:02:10 - Where can people find you? RunfreePT.com Instagram - @runfreept Youtube - RunfreePT Free consults over video or in person — runfreept@gmail.com SEGMENTS Triple Crown of Days of the Week Gross or Not Gross?  Zach ate moldy beef sticks Chaunce drank Harper’s drool Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews  Special thanks to OnX by Backcountry. Shoutout to Pauly (our editor/beats guy) @paulyboyshallcross Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT and Lindsay Sparks. 

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by OnX Backcountry, we are joined by Clara "Redfeather" Hughes.  Clara, in no uncertain terms, is a bonafide superstar.  In addition to a multitude of thru-hikes under her belt, Clara is a world-class speed skater and cyclist, being the only athlete in history to win multiple medals at both the summer and winter Olympic Games.  Let that sink in for a second.  We go deep on all the things you'd want to ask an Olympic superstar, including what her training regimen looks like, what it feels like to win a gold medal, and how much of a drunken orgy the Olympic village really is.  We also learn how her backpacking endeavors played a role in her Olympic career and why she attributes a portion of her success to her trekking.  We do a triple crown of Olympic sports (fittingly enough), how a professional tennis player stole our idea to sell our body parts in a non-prostitution sorta way (not that there's anything wrong with that), and a contentious patent pending. OnX discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Greenbelly discount code: Use code: "TREK2021" to save 10% sitewide at greenbelly.co Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Goodr discount code: Use code "backpacker15" to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15 [divider] Interview with Clara Hughes Clara’s Instagram Clara’s Website Clara's Book  [divider] 00:04:55 - QOTD: What is your favorite pizza? 00:08:36 - Welcome Clara Hughes! 00:14:51 - What is this Baja hike?  00:17:44 - How did you get into your Olympic career?  00:25:22 - So you first got into sport when you were 16 or 17, how old were you for your first Olympic games? 00:25:44 - When you were younger did you know you were gifted as an athlete? 00:25:55 - How did you go from not really doing sport to being an olympic athlete? What happened in the middle?  00:29:03 - So the Olympic medals came after the JMT revelation? 00:31:10 - What is the community of the Olympics in Canada? How does it even work getting into the Olympics? What does the system look like in the months outside of the Olympic games? 00:33:18 - How did the structure of the Olympic community help with your mental health struggles? 00:40:40 - Is there a part of you that does want to turn hiking into sport and try an FKT? 00:44:28 - Do you relay your story about mental health on trail?  00:48:55 - When are they going to make a movie about your life? Has anyone approached you about one? If not, why are they f*cking up? 00:52:41 - Why do you think thru-hiking is a bigger deal in the U.S.? 00:55:31 - Can you give a little background on the Great Divide Trail? 00:57:48 - How much crossover is there between speed skating and cycling?  01:00:18 - When did you realize you wanted to do Olympic cycling?  01:02:18 - Can you put in headphones in the Olympics? If not, what’s in your head?  01:05:03 - Has anyone tried to rig the spring part of the skate to make it super powerful? 01:06:28 - Where are the wipeouts more intense? Cycling or speedskating?  01:08:57 - Would you rather have a slicey bloody injury or an internal bone breaking injury?  01:10:47 - Are there photos of your sunglasses injury?  01:12:41 - What does it feel like to win a gold medal?  01:16:19 - Can you speak to the states of flow you get into competitively vs. training? 01:20:23 - Is Olympic Village as crazy as all the stories?  01:23:13 - Do you have any wild Olympic Village stories? 01:25:18 - Is the last day of the Olympics the biggest party day? 01:26:50 - Do you wear your medals all the time? 01:29:31 - Where should people go to keep up with you?  SEGMENTS Interview debrief Trek Propaganda Six Triple Crown Spots to Visit If You Can’t Thru-hike This Year by Eloise Robbins Triple Crown of Olympic Sports News from Off the Trail Patent Pending (Hangry App) Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT and Lindsay Sparks.

In today's episode of backpacker radio presented by the trek, we are joined by Emily Ford.  Perhaps you've heard that name in the backpacking sphere of late, because Emily recently wrapped a thru-hike of Wisconsin's Ice Age Trail- in the dead of winter- becoming just the second person ever to do so, and the first woman.  We do a deep dive on Emily's journey, including what gear she used, the weather conditions (spoiler alert- it was cold as hell), how she had to knock on strangers' doors to ask if she could sleep in their yard, and how she managed this trek alongside a husky that did not belong to her.  This is a fun conversation. We wrap the show with a preview of The Trek's brand new podcast- Walking Distance, a Triple Crown of odd firsts, another edition of backpacking advice of the day, and some history of how North Carolina's tallest mountain played a role in the death of the person its named after. But first. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Greenbelly discount code: Use code: "TREK2021" to save 10% sitewide at greenbelly.co Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to save 25% at reelpaper.com Check out Hikerlink.co to connect with hiker trash past, present and future. Interview with Emily Ford Emily’s Instagram 00:04:42 - QOTD: Do you like backpacking in the winter? Or what’s the worst part of hiking in freezing temperatures?  00:08:00 - Welcome Emily Ford 00:08:20 - Where are you from originally and how and when did you get into backpacking? 00:09:54 - Did you hear what happened on Lake Superior?  00:10:23 - What kind of stuff did the people who were fishing lose?  00:10:57 - Why don’t we hear your Minnesotan accent? 00:11:07 - What’s the best accent you’ve got? 00:12:13 - When did your intro into hiking and backpacking begin? 00:14:02 - How much do you think rugby helped you train you for backpacking? 00:15:37 - Did your rugby coach’s mantra play in your mind as you hiked?  00:16:18 - What made you want to do a winter thru-hike? 00:17:25 - Did you feel like it was a hard adjustment to backpacking after being used to quicker movements with rugby? 00:19:34 - How do you get into powerlifting? 00:22:03 - Did powerlifting help with carrying such a heavy pack for winter backpacking? 00:23:17 - Can you give us the full spiel about the Ice Age Trail and what you just accomplished? 00:24:37 - You’re the first woman and second person ever to winter thru-hike the Ice Age Trail, correct? Does that speak to the difficulty of the feat or the difficulty of being out in that cold of weather? 00:25:39 - What’s the terrain like on the Ice Age Trail? Also you finished in 69 days?! Nice. 00:27:04 - Was it difficult technically or more like rolling hills? 00:28:09 - Had you hiked much of the trail in summer? 00:28:48 - When did you have snow shoes on the trail? 00:29:42 - What was this Wisconsin winter like? How cold was it? 00:31:17 - Did your dog sleep with you in your sleeping bag? 00:32:14 - What’s a musher? 00:33:30 - So the kennel just let you borrow a dog for the winter? 00:34:59 - How did Diggins respond to thru-hiking in winter?  00:36:36 - So Diggins was melting the snow underneath her as she slept? 00:36:59 - Was Diggins pulling her gear or your gear?  00:37:59 - Diggins was on leash in all your photos, can you talk about that? 00:39:39 - Do you think Diggins stayed near you because she began to trust you? 00:40:00 - What was it like giving Diggins back to her family? 00:41:00 - Does Diggins live close enough to visit?  00:41:38 - What kind of challenges were there with bringing a dog?  00:43:19 - Did Diggins get town food too? 00:43:33 - Did you get to go to any fish fries?  00:44:07 - What was your lodging situation while on trail? 00:45:16 - So you have friends all throughout Wisconsin? 00:46:24 - What is it like when you get to town? How do you pick which door you are going to knock on?  00:47:53 - How many times did you cold knock on people’s doors? 00:48:31 - Were people familiar with the Ice Age Trail?  00:49:05 - Are these people who let you sleep in their yard interacting with you at all?  00:49:22 - At what point did you start to get fan fare?  00:51:29 - Do you have any dream sponsors?  00:52:30 - Can you talk about your gear?  00:55:00 - How did your sleeping bag pack?  00:58:14 - What were you wearing while you were hiking? 00:59:46 - Did you have down or synthetic gear? 01:01:18 - Do you have leftover issues from frostbite on your butt? 01:02:08 - Would snow pants have been too hot?  01:04:19 - Were your shoes waterproof?  01:04:54 - Did you have gaiters?  01:06:04 - Did you keep hand warmers in bags to keep them working? 01:06:32 - What kind of eyewear did you have?  01:06:55 - Did you use trekking poles?  01:11:25 - Can you speak to being a black, LGBTQIA+ hiker? 01:13:42 - Have people messaged you that they are inspired by your journey? 01:14:44 - What’s next for you? 01:15:25 - Have you been in touch with Renee Patrick at all? 01:17:06 - Did you struggle with feeling stir crazy and bored and not being able to talk to other people? 01:19:08 - How did processing things while hiking interface with your journey? 01:21:02 - Can you talk about your job as head gardner? 01:22:13 - Where can we find you? What can we plug? 01:22:36 - What’s a goat apprentice? 01:23:00 - Did your dog know you were cheating on him while hiking with Diggins? 01:23:53 - Do you have any fun goat facts? 01:24:41 - So older goats don’t get mad at the younger goats when they bounce on them? 01:25:28 - If you are stranded on an island would you prefer goat or cow cheese?  01:26:38 - Why do people not drink more goat milk? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Walking Distance Podcast Triple Crown of Firsts Random Backpacking Advice…of the day. Mile by Mile Excerpt Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT and Lindsay Sparks.

Today is our centennial show, and oh boy, is it a beast. For starters, as a thank you to you, our beautiful listeners- we are giving away some awesome prizes, including a Gossamer Gear tent, pack, and trekking poles- but really that just scratches the surface.  We're chatting with Jennifer Pharr Davis and Brew Davis about their current COVID Recovery Tour- a family road trip touring the national parks, and a concerted effort to both prioritize their mental health and inspire others to do the same.  In hilarious Hiker Trash fashion, the Davis fam conducts this interview from their hotel room's bathroom floor, because, kids. We wrap the show with a wild and somewhat inebriated series of segments- including some newbies such as Never Have I Ever backpacking edition, Gross or Not Gross, and Random Backpacking Advice of the Day.  And to really crank this one to 11, the segment portion of the show features our bud and resident yeti, Jabba aka The Real Hiking Viking aka Tom. Strap in. [divider] Listen   Download this episode. [divider] Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Greenbelly discount code: Use code: "TREK2021" to save 10% sitewide at greenbelly.co Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to save 25% at reelpaper.com. My Medic visit  discount code: Use code: "BACKPACKER25" to save 25% at mymedic.com [divider] Interview with Jennifer Pharr Davis & Brew Davis Jennifer Pharr Davis’s instagram Brew Davis’s instagram Jennifer Pharr Davis’s Facebook Brew Davis’s Facebook Jennifer Pharr Davis’s Website  Blue Ridge Hiking Company Brew Davis on Spotify 00:05:04 - QOTD: If your belly button was a real button, what would you want it to do? 00:08:00 - Explanation for winning prizes!  00:14:05 - Interview with Jennifer Pharr Davis and Brew Davis 00:15:00 - What is your most recent book?  00:16:53 - Where are you right now? What are you drinking? And what are you drinking it out of?  00:18:00 - You’re drinking what out of a what?  00:19:15 - Give us a brief intro on Blue Ridge Hiking Co. and how things have gone with COVID? 00:23:18 - The outfitter is new then?  00:24:10 - Can you talk about the President’s Council? 00:26:45 - Is there a certain time they add or remove people from the President’s Council? 00:28:00 - You serve (or served) on the board for the ATC? What is that like?  00:33:48 - What has it been like being a parent to two kids during the heart of COVID? 00:40:13 - Can you talk about what the National Parks tour is?  00:47:47 - What part of the tour is for work? 00:53:23 - How are your kids doing? Who is this trip for?  00:57:25  - How has COVID impacted your screen policy? 01:04:40 - How did you do the schedule for the National Parks tour?  01:06:00 - How do you stay on top of the changes with the pandemic and everything?  01:08:35 - Where in the tour are you now? Where have you visited?  01:12:17 - Can you tell a story about Al Capone and Hot Springs? 01:13:47 - Do you set goals based on your kids hiking desires? How do you choose which treks you take on? 01:23:53 - Do you have any parting words of wisdom for us?  01:26:53 - Where should people go if they want to keep up with the National Parks Tour?  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The Best Backpacking Meals of 2021 by Katie Kommer New Writer Applications on The Trek  Zach's Assistant Internship Random Piece of Backpacking Advice of The Day Gross or Not Gross   TRIPLE CROWN of band names Never Have I Ever 5 Star Reviews Prize package 1: Gossamer Gear The One Shelter, $100 gift card at Backcountry.com, 2 pairs of Goodr shades (upcoming advertiser), a 5-meal sampler from Greenbelly, a signed copy of Appalachian Trials or Pacific Crest Trials and Hiking from Home, a Trek Hat, AND A BPR STICKER Prize package 2: Gossamer Gear Gorilla Pack, $100 gift card at Backcountry.com, 2 pairs of Goodr shades (upcoming advertiser), and a 5-meal sampler from Greenbelly, a signed copy of Appalachian Trials or Pacific Crest Trials and Hiking from Home, a Trek Hat, AND A BPR STICKER Prize package 3: Gossamer Gear LT5 Poles, $100 gift card at Backcountry.com, 2 pairs of Goodr shades (upcoming advertiser), a signed copy of Appalachian Trials or Pacific Crest Trials and Hiking from Home, a Trek Hat, AND A BPR STICKER A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Patricia Cameron. Patricia is a journalist, thru-hiker, and the Founder and Executive Director at Blackpackers, a non-profit whose mission is to eliminate economic disparities of people of color in outdoor recreation.  We chat in-depth about Patricia's Colorado Trail thru-hike last year, including what it was like to hike during a pandemic, how much she enjoyed the hiker trash camaraderie, some of her favorite stops along the trail, and more.  We also learn about the origin of Blackpackers, some of the challenges and successes she's had in building it, and the impact she's with the Colorado POC community so far.  We wrap the convo with some very important Breaking Bad chat and what it's like to pee yourself. The show closes with a triple crown of animals you don't want to see on trail, we ponder how badly we want to explore the universe, Badger opines about why Altra is losing ground with the thru-hiking community, and we get a taste for a new podcast project courtesy of our very own, Ms. Juliana Chauncey. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Greenbelly discount code: Use code: "TREK2021" to save 10% sitewide at greenbelly.co Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to save 25% at reelpaper.com. My Medic visit  discount code: Use code: "BACKPACKER25" to save 25% at mymedic.com   [divider] Interview with Patricia Cameron  COBlackpackers.com Patricia’s Twitter Patricia’s Instagram Blackpackers Instagram Blackpackers Facebook Patricia’s blogs on Backpacker.com about her CT hike 00:05:00 - QOTD: What are your spring hiking plans? 00:07:58 - Welcome Patricia Cameron of CO Blackpackers! 00:08:27 - How did you get into the outdoors/backpacking?  00:09:48 - Did the green vested guru have any hesitancy for showing you how to set up the tent?  00:10:46 - Are you originally from Colorado Springs? 00:11:05 - When did writing about backpacking become part of the equation? 00:12:58 - Were you at Outdoor Retailer on behalf of CO Blackpackers? 00:14:22 - Can you talk about your journalism background? 00:15:27 - Are you a football fan? 00:17:11- How did Blackpackers correlate with the CT (timing wise)?  00:17:46 - Can you explain Blackpackers for people who don’t know? 00:20:19 - What regions of Colorado does Blackpackers work with? 00:21:04 - Can you talk about the evolution/growth of Colorado Blacpackers over the last year? 00:24:55 - Can you talk through where your head was at with starting the trail? 00:26:19 - Did you choose to hike the Colorado Trail based on the pandemic?  00:27:00 - How did your son feel about you hiking the trail? 00:29:24 - How much lightning did you have to deal with on your hike?  00:30:34 - What did you do when you were stuck in the storm? 00:34:22 - Can  you talk about the hiker camaraderie and what your expectations were going into the hike? 00:36:08 - How many people were you seeing on the Colorado Trail? 00:37:14 - Can you speak to the night when someone said “whiskey” and you decided to camp with them? 00:39:30 - Did you enjoy the towns on the CT?00:40:24 - You had some great town stays besides Breckenridge — can you talk about Salida? 00:42:47 - What’s your go-to when you go into town? 00:43:45 - Was there a standout meal on the trail? 00:44:56 - Were you taking notes every night? 00:45:45 - Did you ever bring drinks with you on the trail? 00:51:00 - Can you talk about your gear? 00:54:10 - Did you accept yourself during the hike or before?  01:00:30 - Can you talk about your pacing? You are a self-described slower hiker? Can you speak to the pace you did it in? 01:02:33 - Did you do any of the side trails or 14ers on the trail? 01:03:10 - Do you have a favorite location from the Colorado Trail?  01:06:11 - How many people do you think Blackpackers has brought outside so far?  01:07:40 - Did you feel like you were successful in reaching people outside of the hiking world through other venues (like skiing)?  01:09:18 - Are you a big Breaking Bad fan? 01:10:00 - Who from Breaking Bad would be best at thru-hiking? 01:10:17 - Who would you like to thru-hike with?  01:11:40 - Can you speak to the mentality some people have that there isn’t a race boundary in the outdoors? 01:15:25 - What are some of the biggest challenges you are facing with running and starting Blackpackers?  01:16:20 - If people want to help but aren’t local where can they go and what can they do? Donate at COBlackpackers.com Volunteer  01:17:33 - Can you speak a little more about the specific NOLS course you went on? 01:18:41 - Does that inform the kind of courses you’ll be leading? Does NOLS help with certifications? 01:27:40 - Lots of potty talk  01:30:14 - Upcoming trips you are excited about personal or with Blackpackers?  01:31:57 - What’s harder — hiking the Colorado Trail or raising a teenager? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 5 Reasons Why I Chose to Flip-Flop the Appalachian Trail by Austin Hays Triple Crown of animals you don’t want to confront on a hike Reddit Brain Buster  If an alien offered you a one week trip across the galaxy and back with the catch being 15 years passes on Earth, would you accept or reject the offer and why? Follow-up: As an alien your goal is to ruin life for all of the earthlings as much as possible. However, you only have time to do one thing. What do you do? One-Minute Gear Reviews Mile By Mile Podcast Teaser Mail Bag  5-Star Review  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Eric Giuliani.  Eric, more or less on a whim, decided to trade his unfulfilling corporate job to circumnavigate the globe without taking a single flight. Yes, 70,000 miles by boat, train, and automobile, and- to make the story even more ridiculous- he relies largely on his very nascent photography skills to barter his way around the world.  We learn all about this massive adventure, including an in-depth accounting for how he pitched hotels to lodge in exchange for his services, how difficult it can be to lay low during high terror alerts as a 6'10" former collegiate basketball player, what it's like to spend several days on cargo ships without any form of entertainment, and more. We wrap the show with a quick chat about Trail Days 2021, a triple crown of things we'd do with a million bucks, and an absurd story about a bear biting a woman's ass in an outhouse. Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to save 25% at reelpaper.com. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Good To-Go discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER25" to save 25% on your order and get free shipping on orders over $100 at Goodto-go.com. [divider] Interview with Eric Giuliani  Eric’s Book - Sky’s the Limit: One Man’s 70,000 Mile Journey Around the World  Sky’s The Limit trailer for Eric’s book  Eric’s Instagram  Eric’s Twitter Eric’s Youtube 00:05:07 - QOTD: What is a movie that inspires you or has inspired you to get outside? 00:11:02 - Where does your travel story start?  00:13:18 - Can you elaborate on why it’s better to hate your job than like your job?  00:15:31 - How did your finances and the philosophy of the travel itself interface with one another? 00:19:42 - So before you left you didn’t actually have the skills you were bartering? 00:23:59 - How far in advance were you booking places out (through bartering)?  00:26:15 - What was your success rate on reaching out to people? What goes into a good pitch for what you were trying to do?  00:28:21 - Did you ever feel any sort of imposter syndrome while doing this?  00:30:15 - Did your pitch start to work better once your portfolio got more built out? 00:32:30 - Did your pitch start to involve more video as you got better?  00:38:19 - Drones are the move. 00:39:28 - Can you share how you chose what destinations you chose? How you formatted the trip? 00:45:24 - Is it even more difficult to lay low as a westerner being 6’10”? 00:47:04 - You’ve mentioned that the bus rides are dangerous, can you explain some of the dangers they pose? 00:49:09 - Were there ever instances during these risky trips that put you on edge? 00:50:40 - Were you doing anything recreationally during the African leg of your journey? 00:52:39 - What happened after Egypt? 00:54:55 - How did you keep yourself entertained on a cargo ship? 00:56:00 - Were there any huge storms on cargo ships? 00:58:44 - Can you talk more about your Europe adventures? 01:04:13 - What were you traveling with? 01:05:35 - Did you buy new stuff as you went along? 01:07:12 - Who did you give the bartered jacket to? 01:08:06 - Were you good at pitching yourself in person before you left or did you hone the craft over the course of your journey? 01:09:11 - When you did pay for things did you ever negotiate? Did you ever haggle? 01:11:00 - What was the primary thread that you enjoyed about this trip? 01:13:33 - Where did you go after Beijing? 01:17:08 - Did you ever have a moment on the ships where you felt like it might sink? 01:19:15 - What does someone do in Antarctica? 01:23:00 - What is the place you are actually staying like? Can you describe the town or whatever it is? 01:24:20 - Do you have any general pieces of advice for anyone who’s interested in doing something similar?   SEGMENTS As Trail Days Moves Forward, Hikers Wonder About Safety by Tina Mullen  The Trek Editorial Internship  Gear Wars: Merino Wool vs. Synthetic Base Layers Katie Kommer  Reddit Brain Buster: What’s a fact that makes you uncomfortable? We’ll start — bones are wet. The strongest species on earth is the dung beetle. Triple Crown of things you would do with a million dollars* *must be selfish, not altruistic  5 Star Reviews Mail Bag  Alaskan Woman Attacked By Bear From Below  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT.

In today's episode of backpacker radio presented by The Trek we are joined by Ben Lawhon the Director of Education and Research at Leave No Trace.  Not that Leave No Trace needs any introduction, as this is a framework we've spoken about countless times on the show and I'm guessing you were familiar with it before Backpacker Radio entered your lives, but this interview is incredibly important and we think you'll find surprisingly entertaining.  Not only do we go very deep on the proper way to shit in the backcountry including why poop soup is king, but we cover a range of topics including why something as seemingly small as tossing an apple core off the trail can have profound impacts, how social media interplays with Leave No Trace, and the best way to educate others who are in violation of LNT, including why saying nothing can sometimes be the best policy.  We're very sincere in saying that we think you'll find a lot of very interesting tidbits in our conversation with Ben. We wrap the show with a triple crown of 90s sitcoms, how we would handle a docile zombie apocalypse of stinky people, and a mailbag featuring the cinnamon connection invading people's dreams. Backcountry discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER15" to save 15% on your "first" purchase at Backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Good To-Go discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER25" to save 25% on your order and get free shipping on orders over $100 at Goodto-go.com. [divider] Interview with Ben Lawhon LeaveNoTrace.org 00:05:00 - QOTD: What is your biggest LNT non-compliant pet peeve?  00:07:30 - Introduction to Ben Lawhon 00:07:58 - How did you get into conservation? 00:11:07 - What were some of the things you learned in your LNT master course that sparked your interest?  00:13:04 - Is there a trick to instilling LNT ethics in people? Does you notice a correlation with thru-hiking?  00:17:30 - Can you speak to the difference on the AT between the 90’s and now from an LNT standpoint?  00:20:34 - How does a Leave No Trace principle come to be? What is the process for developing them?  00:25:06 - What was the Leave No Trace principle that got cut?  00:26:32 - Are there any instances of principles or techniques being removed?  00:29:28 - Do you ever get people who are frustrated when principles change? 00:31:26 - Does anyone have any failed shitput footage? 00:31:47 - Can you elaborate on plan ahead and prepare?  00:35:14 - What would you recommend to someone who is preparing for a short backpacking trip?  00:37:51 - Can you elaborate on the principle: Travel and camp on durable surfaces? 00:41:06 - When the trail is muddy, should you walk through the mud or go around it?  00:43:41 - Are you seeing increasing issues with people stepping off trail to take the perfect Instagram photo?  00:46:35 - Can you elaborate on the principle: Dispose of waste properly? 00:53:21 - Has the guidance on packing out your toilet paper changed? And does it vary by environment?  00:56:37 - So if your hole is the depth it should be it won’t get dug up? 00:57:24 - Should people cover up the toilet paper with their poop? 00:59:25 - Fact or myth: do menstrual fluids attract bears? 01:00:45 - When should people not bury their poop? 01:03:55 - When people are hiking with their dogs should they bury their dogs poop too? 01:04:10 - Do you know of any compostable diaper liners that you could bury?  01:06:56 - Can you chuck apple cores off into the woods? What is the leave no trace policy on it? What are the biggest problems?  01:10:00 - Can you talk about the leave what you find principle? 01:16:19 - Is there anything about carving into trees  you want to talk about?  01:19:18 - What is the leave no trace stance on cairns? 01:21:32 - Can you elaborate on the principle of minimizing fire impacts?  01:25:02 - You said no fires on the AT in Georgia?  Follow up from Ben on the subject:    See: https://www.georgia-atclub.org/hike-the-a-t/hike-the-georgia-appalachian-trail/frequently-asked-questions   Camping on the trail in Georgia Refer to the guide books for locations. There is camping at all of the shelters or you may camp at one of the many established campsites along the trail or stay in one of the shelters. Learn about and follow Leave No Trace principles and use areas already hardened by use. If you have a fire, please use existing fire rings and be sure your fire is dead out before leaving the area. Be acquainted with no-fire zones such as on Blood Mountain. Refer to the Chattahoochee National Forest website for news and information about fire restrictions that may be in effect.   01:29:31 - Do you think LNT will ever change it’s stance on campfire guidance?  01:32:10 - What about explosive gender reveal parties?  01:33:20 - Can you elaborate on the principle: respect wildife?  01:39:20 - What’s the proper way to approach someone who is violating Leave No Trace? 01:45:14 - How does that apply to online behavior?  01:48:39 - What is Leave No Trace’s social media recommendations on geotagging? 01:52:50 - Where can people go to learn more?  LeaveNoTrace.org   SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  Trek Ambassadors  Badger Sponsorship is now CLOSED Triple Crown of 90s Sitcoms Reddit Brain Buster: You have an incredible night's sleep, wake up and the world is infested by zombies (9 out of 10 people). They are not lethal. Instead they're painfully boring, obsessed with politics and smell like off codfish. What do you do? Mail Bag  5 Star Review A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by THE Survivorman, Les Stroud.  This interview does not disappoint.  We talk about Les' entry into the world of reality tv- and why he hates the genre overall, he talks a little bit of shit on Bear Grylls, we chat about some of his most precarious moments in the bush, and Les gives us a very compelling pitch on why Sasquatch is probably real. We wrap up the show wondering how we'd run amok if the world was frozen for 24 hours, we learn what Vinegrower's Day is, and I hate on lemon juice. Photo credit: Laura Bombier   Backcountry discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER15" to save 15% on your "first" purchase at Backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Good To-Go discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER25" to save 25% on your order and get free shipping on orders over $100 at Goodto-go.com. Feals.com discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" for members to get 50% automatically taken off their first order with free shipping at feals.com. Interview with Les Stroud: Survivorman - Les’s Youtube - Les’s Podcast  - Les’s Book — Wild Outside - Les’s New Special — Surviving Disasters 00:05:19 - QOTD: What is the closest you’ve come to using (or have you used) extreme survival skills while backpacking? 00:12:45 - Intro to Les Stroud, how did you get started in the outdoors? 00:14:59 - Was TV inspiring you to get outdoors why you created Survivorman? 00:17:21 - How do you feel about reliance on cell phones for navigation? 00:19:20 - How did you background in music transition into your work in the outdoors?  00:24:38 - Do you know how much all your camera equipment weighs? 00:27:23 - Does it bother you to be mentioned in the same breath as Bear Grylls? 00:30:33 - Did you get to talk to Mike Judge about King of the Hill?  00:31:54 - What is the place you’ll never go? 00:32:12 - Can you talk about reality TV in general? Do you feel like you are being dragged down by the category? 00:36:20 - Can you tell us about the year long honeymoon project?  00:39:33 - Where can someone find Snow Shoes & Solitude? Or any of your stuff? Les’s Youtube 00:39:48 - So you own all the rights to your content?  00:42:20 - Can you give an introduction to the show and your vision of Survivorman? 00:44:25 - How far out there are you when you are filming shows?  00:52:04 - How do you decide where you’re going and how much prep goes into it?  00:56:20 - Les has a podcast: Survivorman with Les Stroud  00:57:23 - What was your favorite food you ever caught?  00:58:21 - Do you bring sleeping bags? Not even in the Arctic?  00:59:02 - How does turtle taste?  00:59:56 - Do you think you would have kicked ass on Fear Factor?  01:00:09 - Did you ever schedule your survivor experiences to avoid exposure/cliffs? 01:00:50 - What’s the biggest mistake you’ve ever made?  01:02:46 - Can we talk about bigfoot?  01:03:11 - Is there an environment that is particularly hard?  01:05:55 - How did you know that beef fat was safe to eat even though it was old?  01:08:30 - Does fire get rid of most diseases and harmful things? 01:09:25 - Did it get more tempting to avoid failures as the show went on? 01:13:41 - What is bigfoot?  01:19:42 - So it’s not one bigfoot? It could be a species?  01:20:40 - Why are there so many people who have seen bigfoot but no game camera has picked it up? 01:24:11 - Do you think aliens is a likely theory for what bigfoot is? 01:25:16 - Could bigfoot be an alien? 01:25:31 - Would you describe yourself as a skeptic or believer?  01:27:22 - Thoughts on the lochness monster? Ghosts?  01:30:06 - You’ve experienced bigfoot? What did you experience?  01:30:38 - Can you tell us about your Surviving Disasters special? 01:31:27 - Les’s book Wild Outside is coming out March 1 01:32:00 - Surviving Life with Les Stroud podcast  01:32:44 - Everything is on Youtube SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The Best Tents for Thru-Hiking by The Editors  Walking Distance Podcast by Alison Young  Reddit Brain Buster: Time freezes for 24 hours and you are not affected, what do you do? Chaunce's Diet Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again joined by Andy Downs of the ATC.  For those who might be unfamiliar, the ATC has been under a bit of heat of late for the news of their accepting a very large gift from the Mountain Valley Pipeline, a project they once opposed.  Andy gives us a thorough breakdown on the history of the project, why the ATC is no longer actively opposing it, and answers some of the common critical questions being lobbed in the ATC's direction.  We also dive into the subject of the ATC making the request for people to yet again postpone their thru-hikes on the AT in 2021, how the decision was arrived to, and some key considerations to make for those who are still dead set on hiking the Trail. Zach also outline why The Trek will not be closing the platform to thru-hikers this year, the duo talk about their ideal marriage partner and/or shapeshifter victims, and listeners are blessed with a trio of poop stories to close out the show. Backcountry discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER15" to save 15% on your "first" purchase at Backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Good To-Go discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER25" to save 25% on your order and get free shipping on orders over $100 at Goodto-go.com. [divider] Interview with Andy Downs of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy 00:05:30 - QOTD: Why did Chaunce have to reschedule the show? 00:06:39 - Welcome back to Andy Downs 00:08:00 - You mentioned not being the best thru-hiker can you explain? 00:09:52 - How many times have you been to prison?  00:10:05 - What is your title at the ATC? 00:11:00 - What power line issues were you dealing with yesterday? 00:12:04 - What was 2020 like for you and the ATC? 00:14:18 - What was trail maintenance like on the AT in 2020?  00:16:25 - What is the chain of command with trail maintenance clubs? What exactly does the ATC do? 00:19:20 - Does the ATC provide any funding? 00:20:42 - Does the ATC run the ridge runner program? 00:22:25 - Can you talk about how the Mountain Valley Pipeline history intertwines with the AT? 00:34:16 - Why is this big news all of a sudden? 00:35:36 - What is not being disclosed about the deal and why is that the case?  00:37:54 - Can you speak to the million-dollar bonus you got (joking)? 00:39:47 - Is the money going to go to rerouting in Virginia?  00:44:43 - As someone who fought the pipeline for a while can you understand why people are upset?  00:48:21 - Do you have to advocate for the deal now?  00:49:45 - What is your obligation to the advancement of the pipeline? 00:53:36 - Some people say you are incentivized to help finish the pipeline? 00:55:34 - What are the potential impacts of the pipeline?  01:03:05 - So what are the big downsides?  01:09:35 - Are there large environmental concerns? 01:11:14 - Are the ecosystems around the AT not also considered the ATC’s responsibility? 01:18:00 - Can you talk about the ATC’s stance on Covid-19? 01:27:24 - Does the ATC have any say in trail days?  01:30:18 - Have you had any feedback from trail towns asking you not to discourage hikers?  01:33:10 - What should people know? Where should they stay up to date? Project Planning Reference Materials   SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Thru-Hiking in 2021, COVID-19, and The Trek’s Platform by Zach Davis  2021 Badger Sponsorship: A $20,000+ Gear Giveaway to Benefit the National Scenic Trails Reddit Brain Buster  You get to pick one person with a 50/50 chance that in the morning you’ll either wake up as them or married to them — who do you choose?  Mail Bag  5 Star Review   [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Philip Carcia.  Have you heard of New Hampshire?  Because Philip has hiked it.  All of it.  Many times, in all different directions.  In addition to a handful of thru-hikes, Philip has completed the New Hampshire 48 Single Year Grid, the White Mountain Direttisima (twice), and White Mountain Redline FKT.  If you don't know what any of that means, good!  We will learn this together during our conversation. We wrap up the show with some news from the ATC, a new snail themed Reddit Brain Buster, we get some intel on the hot spots along the Ice Age Trail, and it's cicada season! Backcountry discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER15" to save 15% on your "first" purchase at Backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Feals.com discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to get 50% automatically taken off your first order with free shipping. [divider] Help us raise $100,000 for the trails and we'll get butt tattoos. Check out Hikerlink. [divider] Interview with Philip Carcia Instagram Facebook  00:04:36 - QOTD:  A burglar breaks into your home, but he only wants the stuff on the top of your fridge. What is he going to steal? 00:07:45 - Intro to Philip Carcia  00:10:16 - How did you get into hiking?  00:14:20 - What was your upbringing like until 16 when you went on your first hike?  00:16:22 - Did things snowball immediately after your first hike?  00:24:12 - Tell us what the Single Year Grid is: Hiking all 48 4,000’ mountains every month for a year 00:34:30 - What are the logistics like getting in between each mountain? Is there a lot of driving in between, etc.? 00:38:52 - What makes it appealing to do the same hikes over and over again?  00:43:51 - Fuck, Marry, Kill — the months of hiking in New England 00:47:46 - What’s the difference between the double single winter and a calendar grid?  00:50:58 - Has anyone done the calendar or single year grid since?  00:54:42 - Tell us about the Direttissima and how to pronounce it.  01:00:28 - Is this route all on trail? Off-trail? Roads?  01:03:32 - How steep are the trails that connect the 48? 01:09:58 - You hold a White Mountain Redline FKT — can you tell us what a White Mountain Redline is and about your experience?  01:19:55 - This sounds like one of your most extensive White Mountain feats?  01:20:15 - How intense is it to plan for a White Mountain Redline FKT?  01:30:44 - What are the best of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:31:16 - What is the hardest of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:32:13 - What is the easiest of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:32:37 - If you could only do one of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire for the rest of your life, which would it be?  01:33:11 - What is the worst marked of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:33:49 - What is the most underrated of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:35:15 - What is the most overrated of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:38:33 - What is the best named 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:39:50 - What is a 48 4,000’ mountain in New Hampshire that you’d skip? 01:41:39 - Can you talk about the initiative you founded?  01:47:00 - Where can people keep up with Summits in Solidarity?  Instagram Facebook 01:48:30 - Where do we find Philip?  Instagram Facebook    SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Black Forest Trail Profile  by Troy Zohner The ATC Will Not Recognize Thru-Hikers During Pandemic by Kelly Floro  Minor Inconveniences  Reddit Brain Buster  After lightning strikes your garden, you gain the ability to communicate with snails and they follow your commands. What will you ask them to do? Cicada Season  Horse Fact from Erin Potter Unlike humans who produce stomach acid when they ingest food, horses always produce stomach acid which makes it essential that they have something to eat so that they don’t develop ulcers. Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Bekah and Derrick Quirin.  In 2017, the Quirins thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail with their adorable baby, Ellie, alongside.  We learn how in the hell this is possible, including their diaper logistics, gear setup, nap schedule, and much more.  The very next year the Quirins cycled the 2,700 mile Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, again, with Ellie in tow.  We learn the of the unique challenges between thru-hiking and thru-biking, the differences between hiking with a baby and a toddler, and much more.   We close out the show with some Badger Baby Q&A, a round of toddler or drunk person trivia, Chaunce gives us her best patent pending invention yet, and Zach does his best to string coherent sentences together despite some punishing sleep deprivation. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com [divider] Help us raise $100,000 for the trails and we'll get butt tattoos. Check out Hikerlink. [divider] Interview with The Quirins The Dirtbag Baby on Instagram  Valleyforestschool.com for Forest School in Roanoke, VA or Greenville, SC 00:04:20 - QOTD: At what age does a baby become a true thru-hiker? 00:05:46 - Donate to the Butt tattoo campaign 00:06:51 - Introduction to the Quirins who Thru-Hiked the AT in 2017 with their baby, Ellie. 00:08:02 - What was the inspiration to thru-hike with a baby? And how old was Ellie when you took on the thru-hike? 00:09:27 - How old was Ellie when you decided to hike? 00:09:37 - Is it scary to have a 6-month-old and be selling everything? 00:10:50 - Is Ellie just starting to walk when you started the trail? 00:11:26 - Did Ellie walk at all on the trail? 00:12:10 - Where on the trail did Ellie take her first steps? 00:12:45 - Did you hike northbound? 00:13:34 - What are the carrying logistics with gear and the baby?  00:14:37 - How heavy was the whole family’s gear?  00:15:46 - Can you tell us more about your sleep system? 00:16:51 - Was the quilt also made by thermarest? Yes, the Vela HD down quilt. 00:17:16 - What kind of diaper system were you using?  00:18:09 - They make compostable diaper liners? Yes, G-Diapers. 00:18:24 - What was the weight of diaper liners by the time you got to town? 00:20:07 - What was Ellie eating on the trail? 00:20:18 - What age do babies switch from canned mushy stuff to normal stuff? 00:20:51 - Did Ellie have a favorite trail meal?  00:21:47 - Did Ellie’s temperament change on the trail vs. in town?  00:23:17 - How did you guys deal with rain on the AT?  00:24:38 - What pack did you use for Ellie’s carrying case? And how did you decide on that?  00:26:28 - Did you know how steep the northern part of the trail would be? 00:28:21 - What did other hikers think about you hiking with the baby?  00:29:36 - Is Ellie the youngest to do the AT?  00:30:42 - How did Ellie sleep through the night on the AT?  00:32:49 - Does Ellie remember the trail? 00:33:47 - Can you tell us about a high and low point on the AT?  00:38:16 - Can you elaborate on forest school?  00:38:55 - What’s a standard day at forest school like?  00:39:38 - Have you noticed Ellie now has a natural affinity for being outdoors?  00:40:50 - Does Ellie consider being outside normal or being home more normal? 00:42:17 - Do you think having hiked the AT but not having a memory of it will be weird for Ellie?  00:43:38 - Can you tell us about your family bike-packing?  00:44:44 - How does bike-packing compare to hiking with a baby? 00:45:51 - Did you guys have to deal with terrible twos? 00:48:32 - Why did you prefer to ride at night on the Great Divide trip?  00:49:00 - Did you ever see grizzly bears?  00:49:19 - How long did the 2,800 miles take and how long was your average day?  00:49:35 - What kind of mileage were you doing on the AT?  00:50:01 - What’s your approach for the mileage you do on your trips?  00:50:26 - How much did you sleep if you were trying to hike or ride while she sleeps? 00:51:03 - What’s a normal night of sleep for you guys?  00:51:59 - How much does Ellie sleep on trips?  00:53:08 - Was it easier to carry Ellie when she was asleep?  00:54:12 - Tell us about the ambitions of your family moving forward with a second baby on the way! 00:55:11 - Do you think your kids will grow up differently because of their young experiences on trail?  00:58:11 - Was it always a goal of yours with raising a kid to not be stuck to a rigid schedule? 00:59:24 - Does Ellie take it harder when you guys are away since she spent so much time with you at a young age?  01:01:45 - What was Ellie’s first word?  01:03:00 - Any advice for other parents?  01:04:51 - Any staples to carry for the baby?  01:06:50 - How much is a down jacket for a 1-year-old?  01:07:07 - Do you have any brands in mind for babies?  01:09:00 - Any parting words?  The Dirtbag Baby on Instagram  Valleyforestschool.com for Forest School in Roanoke, VA or Greenville, SC   SEGMENTS The 2020 AT Section Hiker Survey: Motives and Logistics by Mariposa  2021 PCT Long-distance Permits Will be Issued; Portal to Open January 19 by Kelly Floro  Patent Pending: Guacarollie  Horse Baby Facts   Dad Q&A  Toddler or Drunk Person?  Triple Crown of NFL teams Chaunce picks: Bills, Buccaneers, Rams  Zachs picks: Chiefs, Packers, Saints  Mail Bag  [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again joined by Andrew Skurka- and as you might’ve already guessed, it does not disappoint.  We touch on a range of different subjects in today’s show ranging from how COVID effected his guiding business, to why wildfires have been so bad in the west over the past couple of decades (and the reason might surprise you), to Andrew’s favorite trail meals, to the intricacies of the backcountry bidet, to picking the perfect campsite, to layering in the winter, and much more.  Put simply, you will enjoy this chat. We round out the show with a reminder of our impending butt tattoos, a triple crown of the worst chores, an explosive butthole patent-pending, picking death by shark or mountain lion, and some horse facts, crab edition. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Feals.com discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to get 50% automatically taken off your first order with free shipping. [divider] Help us raise $100,000 for the trails and we'll get butt tattoos. Apply to be a Trail Correspondent. Check out Hikerlink. How to Get a Job In the Outdoor Industry by Kelly Floro  New Podcast Seeking Research Intern (A Juliana Chauncey Project) Backpacker Radio Book Bundle  [divider] Interview with Andre Skurka Andrew's Previous Backpacker Radio Epsidoe (33) Andrewskurka.com  00:04:49 - Intro to Andrew Skurka 00:06:38 - What has Andrew done since 2019?  00:07:53 - Is it usually bigger nes in the FKT world when someone breaks a record rather than setting one?  00:09:28 - Was 2019 mostly dedicated to the guiding business?  00:10:20 - How did guiding go in 2020?  00:12:15 - What was your thought process on when to pull a plug on a trip for 2020?  00:14:48 - You also dealt with a lot of fires this year correct?  00:15:14 - How many clients are usually on each trip?  00:15:40 - Did you run into any problems with the number of people?  00:17:04 - How are you feeling about trips in 2021?  00:24:41 - Are people going to have to submit whether or not they’ve been vaccinated before going on a trip?  00:25:56 - Did the 2020 fire season impact how you are scheduling trips in 2021?  00:28:09 - What is your personal threshold for hiking in smoke?  00:34:19 - Do you want to speak to what is causing wildfires?  00:37:50 - What is the solution for wildfires?  00:40:20 - Is climate change part of the causes of wildfires?  00:41:00 - The Ted Talk Andrew shared on wildfires.  00:41:19 - Do you have tips for hiking in smoke/near wildfires? 00:43:09 - Would you ever consider making plan B’s for your trips?  00:45:00 - Can you touch on some of the trips you are looking forward to in 2021? 00:49:42 - How active are you with new gear testing?  00:51:10 - Skurka uses a pillow. 00:57:10 - Is there anything else you’ve used this year that you like?  01:01:10 - You’re a hunter right?  01:02:25 - What are some of your favorite backcountry recipes?  01:04:42 - Do you put anything with the protein powder?  01:05:27 - What does Skrurka eat in normal life?  01:06:10 - So you run fasted?  01:10:19 - People want to know about the backcountry bidet?  01:12:22 - Do you bury the things you use to wipe?  01:14:00 - Do you use an accessory? Do you poke a hole in the lid?  01:14:28 - Have you ever thought of making a video that demonstrates?  01:15:48 - How do you know you’re clean at the end?  01:16:39 - Wait, so you don’t just splash the water?  01:18:00 - Do you use soap on your hands after?  01:18:33 - Out of your high route guides, what is your top recommendation for beginners?  01:19:47 - What do you look for in picking the perfect campsite?  01:22:30 - Do you have any advice for beginner winter hiking/snowshoeing/backpacking? 01:28:03 - What do you want to plug?  Andrewskurka.com    Segments How to Get a Job In the Outdoor Industry by Kelly Floro  New Podcast Seeking Research Intern (A Juliana Chauncey Project)  How much money would you have to be paid to be someone’s personal bidet assistant?  Triple Crown of Chores You Hate  Patent Pending: A Washer and Dryer in One Machine  Horse Hermit Crab Facts QOTD: Would you rather be trapped in a cage with a mountain lion or a pool with a bull shark?  Mail Bag [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, is 2020 personified. And by that, I mean it's a genuine shit show. Today's show runs the gamut, we drunk dial some fans, introduce a slew of new segments, play some trivia (grab a drink if you'd like to play along), and are given a play-by-play of some soiled denim courtesy of The Real Hiking Viking. As if that weren't enough the trio consumes enough adult beverages to commit to getting quasi-matching butt tattoos if you, our Backpacker Radio listeners, deem it worthwhile. This is our longest episode yet, by a lot, and exceptionally weird.  Strap in. Zpacks discount code: Use code: BPRPLEX for $25 off any plex tent at zpacks.com. [divider] Help us raise $100,000 for the trails and we'll get butt tattoos. Backpacker Radio Book Bundle  Thru-Hiking Coaching with Zach and Chaunce How to Save Money for a Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro discount code: Use code: IPOOPED for 15% off. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] 00:03:50 - QOTD: What would you put in a 2020 time capsule?  00:08:09 - 2021 Predictions  00:59:00 - Drunk Dialing The Real Hiking Viking  01:08:24 - Drunk Dialing with Smelly Melly / Frontline 01:15:00 - Drunk Dialing with John 01:19:00 - BPR stats  01:25:41 - Drunk Dialing with Julian  01:28:30 - Drunk Dialing with Katie  01:32:55 - Top 10 Countries that listen to Backpacker Radio  01:35:38 - Pits and Peaks of 2020 01:40:00 - Drunk Dialing with Chirstopher Marshburn  01:48:21 - Drunk Dialing with Crystal  01:58:10 - Drunk Dialing with Katie Again 01:59:30 - Drunk Dialing with Kate aka Stickerz  02:09:18 - Drunk Dialing with Rob 02:18:00 - Drunk Dialing with Logan and Kevin 02:26:21 - Trivia with Zach  02:47:27 - Drunk Dialing with Nicholas  02:52:50 - Surprise appearance from Ballflap 02:57:40 - Drunk Dialing with Dot 03:10:00 - More Pits and Peaks  03:19:27 - Drunk Dialing with Zane and Anton  03:35:00 - (ISH?) The beginning of the butt tattoo discussion 03:51:00 - Mail Bag    Comment _____ to win a sticker  [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Cindy Ross.  Cindy is a bonafide renaissance woman.  She's published nine books, with two more on the way, she's a triple crowner, illustrator, and avid traveler. But, the bulk of our conversation today centers around Cindy's novel approach to raising children.  In a nutshell, Cindy and her husband believe that kids should fold into your lifestyle, and not the other way around, as evidenced by their family of four taking on the CDT in section hikes beginning when their kids were just toddlers.  Cindy schools us on experiential education, the trick to successful homeschooling, and why you shouldn't let kids get in the way of your adventurous pursuits.  Whether you have kids, are planning on it in the future, or not, I am confident you will enjoy our conversation. We also do the triple crown of sauces, unveil 2020's naughty and nice lists, and hop in our time machines and prevent the development of two movies.  Zpacks discount code: Use code: BPRPLEX for $25 off any plex tent at zpacks.com. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Backpacker Radio Book Bundle  Thru-Hiking Coaching with Zach and Chaunce How to Save Money for a Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro discount code: Use code: IPOOPED for 15% off. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Cindy Ross Cindy’s website  [divider] 00:03:36 - QOTD: What is the best book you’ve read in 2020?  00:09:52 - Cindy Ross, will you tell us about your background?  00:13:58 - So you were a trail angel to your husband?  00:14:21 - How did you keep in touch with your husband? Did you have an initial romantic interest? 00:16:43 - Do you think getting the same injury is a symbol of romance?  00:17:13 - What years did you hike the AT?  00:17:25 - What did the AT look like in the ’70s compared to now?  00:17:54 - How many people were you seeing on the AT? 00:18:06 - Was the trail as maintained as it is now?  00:18:33 - You did the AT in two halves? Where did you start each time? 00:18:56 - What was the typical demographic on the AT at the time?  00:19:16 - What was the hostel culture like?  00:19:43 - What were resupplies like?  00:20:23 - So you hiked the AT with a friend? 00:21:03 - Were there trail logs when you hiked the AT? 00:21:14 - Do you still have your gear?  00:22:05 - Your book is also a sketchbook right?  00:22:17 - What does your process look like?  00:22:37 - Did you make your own shelter?  00:22:44 - How did you know what to make?  00:23:44 - Did anyone want to buy the gear you made?  00:24:17 - What inspired you to continue the AT in ‘89? 00:24:44 - Did you end up liking the second leg more? 00:25:42 - Is there anything else you want to say about the AT? What differences do you notice between the AT in the late ’70s and today?  00:27:10 - Do you think the ATC should institute a permit system?  00:28:34 - When was your PCT hike? 00:28:38 - What was the PCT like in ‘82 and ‘84?  00:28:58 - Who was “we” on the PCT?  00:29:50 - Did you find people in the desert section of the PCT?  00:30:15 - Was the trail well marked at the time? Did you get lost?  00:30:58 - Through the desert, what were your longest water carries?  00:31:34 - Did you know what you were signing up for when you started the PCT?  00:31:54 - Did you dislike snow travel before the PCT? 00:33:29 - Were you carrying any devices to help you? 00:33:43 - Did you have anything like an InReach?  00:34:00 - What was it like to hitch in the ’80s? Did people know what you were talking about when you said you were hiking the PCT? 00:34:54 - What did you tell people when you are hitching?  00:36:37 - How much do llamas cost?  00:37:41 - What are the advantages of llamas over horses?  00:38:21 - What’s the maximum weight you can put on a llama? Specifically in terms of a kid? 00:39:14 - Did you know anything about llamas previously? 00:40:12 - Did you just borrow the llamas for the duration of the trail? 00:40:50 - How do you maintain a llama? 00:41:38 - How long do llamas usually live? 00:41:49 - Do you have any llama facts?  00:42:43 - Do you grow attached to llamas like you would a dog?  00:44:20 - When the llamas are walking do they have reins? How does that work?  00:45:40 - Do you just tie the llamas to a tree when they get to camp? 00:45:53 - Were there any first aid considerations for llamas?  00:46:43 - Did you ever have to worry about mountain lions?  00:48:37 - Do you still have llamas today? 00:48:52 - Are llamas lonely if they only have one? 00:49:12 - Can your goats carry gear?  00:49:30 - So the goats are just for companionship? 00:49:42 - How far can goats go? 00:50:10 - Can you tell us about the logistics of hiking with kids? How old were your kids on the CDT? 00:50:56 - Are there kid seats for the llamas? 00:51:29 - Did you have any hesitations about bringing your kids?  00:52:00 - Was sleeping with young kids an issue on the trail? 00:55:00 - How would the kids describe their experience?  00:55:37 - Can you offer a synopsis of what your kids wrote?  00:57:07 - Do your kids have tons of pets now?  01:01:37 - Was teaching your kids on the CDT in place of “actual” schooling? 01:02:55 - Was the Camino a cycling trip?  01:03:08 - Why are your kids so bright? 01:04:20 - How do you decide what is important to learn and what’s not? How do you decide what to focus on for homeschooling? 01:06:12 - Did you worry about the kids socially?  01:08:59 - Do you think giving kids the ability to choose their schooling made them want to learn more?  01:09:47 - When Bryce wants to learn about tsunamis, did you also have to learn about tsunamis? 01:10:29 - What is your kid’s relationship with technology today, since they grew up without TV?  01:11:29 - What is your take on parenting where screens are used so often? 01:15:08 - What advice do you have for other people wanting this lifestyle for their kids?  01:17:26 - Can you speak to the scientific studies about kids doing better in nature?  01:20:57 - Is there an audio version of your book? 01:21:16 - Can you define experiential education?  01:22:33 - Is there any risk of exposing your kid to stress?  01:24:30 - Are your kids still very outdoorsy? 01:24:50 - How old are your kids now?  01:25:02 - Was Sierra conceived in the place of her namesake? 01:25:47 - Can you really time the gender of your kid?  01:26:28 - Can you give us a rundown of your two new books coming out?  01:27:43 - Can you talk about some of the stories that inspired your book?  01:29:08 - Is it unanimous that the trail was the healing the veterans were looking for?  01:30:20 - Is there science to back up the efficacy of long-distance hiking and healing? 01:33:38 - What kind of carpentry skills did you have before building your log cabin?  Todd Gladfelter - Chainsaw artist (Cindy’s husband) Bryce Gladfelter - Illustrator (Cindy’s son)  01:35:19 - What are the metaphors people can take away from building a marriage while building a log cabin?  01:38:20 - Where should people go to hear more from you?  Cindy’s website    Segments Trek Propaganda  Gossamer Gear The DCF One Ultralight Tent Review Gossamer Gear The DCF Two Ultralight Tent Review Triple Crown of Sauces  2020 Naughty and Nice List How long is too long to leave up the holiday lights? And when should people take them down?  Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.  

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by Dr. Kristina Kiefer (that's back to back doctor episodes for those keeping score at home).  Dr. Kiefer is a veterinarian with a PhD in Veterinary Regenerative Medicine from the University of Minnesota.  But, of greater interest to you, not only does Dr. Kiefer have the medical expertise to advise about hiking with your dog, but she also walks the walk, having done significant miles on trail with her own pup.  Although we've broached the hiking with your dog subject on previous podcasts, Dr. Kiefer offers us concrete advice rooted in science. And seeing as both of your Backpacker Radio co-hosts are dog obsessed, we cover A LOT of ground in this interview ranging from how much weight a dog should carry, to what ages are appropriate for dogs to go on long distance hikes, to which breeds are best for backpacking, and more.  If you hike with your dog, are planning to one day hike with a dog, or just want some juicy #dogfacts, you will enjoy this conversation. We introduce a new segment, Dad Stuff, answer some burning listener questions, and chat about winter thru-hiking the AT.    Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: POOPSTORY for 15% off your purchase at gossamergear.com. Zpacks discount code: Use code: BPRPLEX for $25 off any plex tent at zpacks.com. [divider] Backpacker Radio Book Bundle  Thru-Hiking Coaching with Zach and Chaunce How to Save Money for a Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro discount code: Use code: IPOOPED for 15% off. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Dr.Kristina Kiefer @kristinakiefer @barefootprofessordvm www.vetssmart.com [divider] QOTD: What is something in your car’s center console that you derive too much joy from?  00:07:00 - How did you get into veterinary school and when did you know that animals, specifically dogs, were a passion of yours?  00:08:06 - How competitive is vet school?  00:08:48 - Is vet school cutthroat like law school?  00:11:03 - What is the most common procedure that you do?  00:11:38 - Are there dogs that are more likely to tear their ACL’s? 00:11:55 - Which breed is at the vet most often?  00:12:30 - What goes wrong with the dogs with smushed faces?  00:13:18 - Is it true that mutts are generally the healthiest?  00:14:47 - Where do Australian shepherds fall on the scale of health?  00:15:47 - Is there an inbreeding component to overbreeding? 00:16:52 - If you had to design the perfect trail dog, what would you pick?  00:17:49 - How do you feel about those dog genetic test kits?  00:19:04 - What are some of the key considerations people should take before bringing their dog on a thru-hike?  00:21:03 - What signs would you look for in a dog that isn’t having a good time? What cues can you look for that your dog isn’t doing well on a hike? 00:23:21 - Is it true that you shouldn’t put more than 10% of a dog’s weight in their pack?  00:24:44 - Do you have a recommendation for adjusting how much you are feeding your dog? 00:25:50 - What supplements were you giving your dog?  00:27:04 - Do you use the same food on the trail as you do at home? 00:27:47 - How big is your dog?   00:29:54 - Is there one ideal brand you would recommend?  00:30:54 - What do you feed your dog?  00:31:40 - Are there any specific ingredients you should look out for that will help or hurt?  00:34:19 - Is CBD good for dogs? 00:36:09 - Is CBD something you would consider giving your dog?  00:36:32 - Would you use CBD for anxiety for dogs?  00:37:44 - Does Harper’s nose turn pink because of allergies?  00:38:37 - Do you put sunscreen on dogs?  00:39:15 - If someone was walking with a light-skinned dog is that sunscreen something they should consider?  00:41:21 - What should someone consider before taking their dog on the PCT? 00:43:59 - Would you get your dog rattlesnake trained?  00:48:08 - Do you get special booties for your dog?  00:50:41 - How do you know when to put booties on your dog?  00:53:05 - What is Musher’s Secret?  00:53:24 - Would you put it on without the booties? 00:54:00 - Did you put anything on your dog’s paws overnight?  00:54:30 - How did you keep your dog from licking off the salve?  00:55:07 - Would you recommend someone go to the groomer throughout a thru-hike?  00:57:31 - Do all dogs need booties? And in what conditions do dogs need them?  00:58:45 - Can you do the run-through of the backpacking you’ve done with your dog?  00:59:47 - What age should dogs start backpacking? 01:02:44 - What signs should people look for that their dog might be too old for hiking or backpacking? 01:04:38 - Are there clear cut signs that a dog is having a terrible time on a hike?  01:08:07 - Would you recommend certain commands for people to learn before taking their dog on trail?  01:11:44 - Do you have tips for someone trying to train their dog for trail commands? And how do you feel with positive reinforcement being the only thing you use to train your dog?  01:13:09 - How do you train a dog (Harper) to go to your side or behind? 01:16:39 - Is there a side that’s easier to start with? 01:17:23 - Where can people keep up with Kristina?  @kristinakiefer @barefootprofessordvm www.vetssmart.com 01:18:37 - What kind of services do you offer through your website?    SEGMENTS   Trek Propaganda Use code: ihike for Patagonia Merch Is a Winter AT Thru-Hike Right For You? By Eloise Robbins Horse Ostrich Facts Dad Stuff! With Zach: Engine Lights IG Q&A What’s the best beer for trail magic? What’s the best piece of simple advice you have to offer? How do you handle backpacking with lightning in Colorado? Is there a chance mountain lions came back to the Appalachian mountains?  I wanna thru-hike but I already wasted 10 years of my life, what do I do? Most memorable view?  Chaunce Tea Plantation Pic What gives you the right?  5 Star Review [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we chat with Dr. Alan Carpenter.  Dr. Carpenter is the ultimate testament that age is just a number, as his entry into the long distance backpacking world didn't begin until the ripe age of 65.  Since then, he's accumulated somewhere in the vicinity of 20,000 miles on foot and another 10,000 miles on his bike.  His stories are gold, he's an injection of inspiration extract, and is as nice as could be. We also share how we would end relationships with our culinary skills, get some horse facts on octopuses, do a triple crown of white elephant gifts, and answer some burning listener questions.  

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Paul Barach.  Paul is an avid adventurer, but today, we focus in on his trek along Japan's Shikoku Pilgrimage, a 750-mile route that visits nearly 90 temples.  This was Paul's first backpacking trip, as evidenced by everything that went wrong, including suffering from heat exhaustion, dehydration, being charged by a wild boar, breaking a piece of an ancient temple, getting a leg infection, and more.  Not only do we get a good taste for the history of this island and pilgrimage, but Paul's stories are some truly hall of fame material. We do the triple crown of states, learn about the crap strap, and are blessed with a fan poop story.  Minus33 discount code (listen to episode to get the code): 15% off your first purchase at minus33.com. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: POOPSTORY for 15% off your purchase at gossamergear.com. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug   Interview with Paul Barach Author of Fighting Monks and Burning Mountains: Misadventures on a Buddhist Pilgrimage Instagram: @barachoutdoors 00:04:28 - QOTD: How are you prepping for winter?  00:07:15 - If you’re hiking next year, apply to vlog, blog, or be an ambassador! 00:07:41 - Paul Barach intro 00:09:30 - How did you get into backpacking originally?  00:09:55 - What kind of ninjas were you obsessed with, specifically? 00:12:36 - After realizing your job sucked, how long did it take to get on trail?  00:13:47 - How did not prepping affect your pilgrimage?  00:15:04 - Can you tell us what the Shikoku pilgrimage entails? 00:16:49 - Can you tell us more about the history of the trail? 00:18:42 - Is there a guidebook for the trail (including the spiritual side)?  00:20:28 - How much traffic is there on this pilgrimage?  00:21:21 - Were you drawn by the religious aspect of the pilgrimage?  00:23:10 - Do you not need a backpack?  00:23:45 - Did you feel more spiritually enlightened from the experience?  00:24:40 - When did you start?  00:24:45 - What is the hiking season in Japan?  00:25:18 - What kind of temperatures were you dealing with?  00:26:00 - Did you have any issues with your sodium balance?  00:26:51 - What is the camping situation like?  00:28:21 - Are people in towns excited to see pilgrims?  00:29:38 - Did you learn Japanese while on the hike?  00:31:05 - How did you handle the logistics?  00:34:06 - Were you doing something wrong? Why couldn’t you find food?  00:34:52 - Do you hitch to town or walk through them?  00:35:21 - How is dried squid?  00:36:06 - How did you get charged by a boar?  00:38:00 - Were you second-guessing what you were doing?  00:43:20 - What is the story of you falling at an ancient temple and breaking a piece of it?  00:46:47 - What was wrong with your leg? How did you know it was infected?  00:49:16 - Can you tell us about the karate fight with a priest? 00:52:34 - What does kumite mean?  00:56:00 - How do you know what martial arts you’ll want to do?  00:57:30 - What’s the worst injury you’ve sustained from martial arts?  00:58:22 - Is kyokushin represented in the UFC at all?  01:00:15 - Do you break boards?  01:04:10 - Is there anything else about the pilgrimage you want to talk about?  01:09:38 - Can you make an adaptation of the oaths for U.S. thru-hiking?    SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The Uncomfortable Truth about Thru-Hiking and Weight Loss by Katie Kommer Five Things I Learned Thru-Hiking as a Solo Female by Kaylin Mountain Lions and Thru-Hiking: Your Questions Answered by Kelly Floro   Triple Crown of States  Point / Counterpoint: Beer vs. Liquor  Patent Pending: Strap & Crap  Mail Bag  5 Star Review  Comment ______ to win a sticker (there are bonus points)! [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Nathan Hankes.  Nathan is an army veteran, having served a tour in Iraq as a drone operator for the United States Army in the aftermath of 9/11.  Upon returning from his tour, Nathan turned to the Appalachian Trail to sort out the residual anger and anxiety he was dealing with as a result of his time serving overseas.  We go deep on Nathan's experience in Iraq, how that affected his political outlook, how the Appalachian Trail helped him heal after his tour, and learn more about the process of his writing, "Waking Up On the Appalachian Trail: A Story of War, Brotherhood, and the Pursuit of Truth", a memoir about his hike. We have a triple crown of tips to lighten your pack, a one minute gear review (including some gear for the pups), and tackle some hard hitting listener questions.   [divider] Listen   Download this episode. [divider] Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Minus33 discount code (listen to episode to get the code): 15% off your first purchase at minus33.com. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Nathan Hankes Get a signed copy of Nathan book: Waking Up on the Appalachian Trail: A Story of War, Brotherhood and the Pursuit of Truth on his website.  Use code: BPR for free shipping (so he can compete with Jeff Bezos). Half of the proceeds from the book go to helping four combat veterans write a book. Find him on social media @nbhankes 00:04:30 - QOTD: How has the trail healed you? 00:08:00 - Trail Correspondents will happen again next year! 00:08:40 - Intro to Nathan Hankes 00:08:56 - Can you give us a quick bio of yourself? 00:09:55 - Where in the midwest are you from? 00:10:32 - What was your interest in the military? 00:11:44 - What do you attribute the naivety you had (re: joining the military) to? 00:12:39 - How old were you when you joined the military? 00:13:47 - What is the ASVAB? 00:14:49 - How big are military drones? 00:15:47 - Which branch of the military did you serve in? 00:15:59 - What were you expecting when you were deployed and what was the reality of the situation? 00:18:12 - What happens if you change your mind while you are in the army? 00:19:53 - Was the sense of dissent among your peers the overarching feeling or was it just a few people? And was that natural skepticism or reality? 00:21:50 - Did any of it feel like the movie Jarhead?  00:23:50 - Did you ever think about leaving?  00:24:37 - Did you think you would thru-hike before you were in Iraq?  00:26:04 - Did you have any near-death experiences?  00:27:56 - How are you supposed to respond when you hear a mortar attack?  00:28:49 - Did that experience alter how you felt the rest of the time you were in Iraq? 00:30:19 - What are the mortars hitting? 00:32:11 - Knowing that you were defending Iraqi civilians you still felt the U.S. presence was wrong?  00:32:55 - Can you ask about the real reason you are there or do you have to keep it to yourself?  00:34:10 - How do you feel about the military now?  00:35:20 - Has your service altered your politics? 00:36:17 - What did the person you hiked with bring up (as far as politics)? 00:37:17 - Which book on the top 100 adventure stories did you like the most?  00:41:41 - What kind of things did you have to get permission from the pentagon for?  00:44:03 - Did you self-publish? 00:44:15 - How did you get endorsements (from people like Christopher Ryan)?  00:45:37 - Would you describe what you experienced as PTSD? 00:46:50 - Were you having trouble sleeping? 00:47:22 - Were there any downsides to going from the military to the trail? Was it weird going from one extreme to the other? 00:49:53 - What is the specific healing you were looking for in your AT experience?  00:52:35 - Did your anger ever manifest in unhealthy ways? 00:53:34 - Did the fear you came back with filter over to the trail at all? 00:55:09 - Did you keep in close contact with your platoon mates? Do you still? 00:57:09 - Were you hoping to maintain that sense of community on trail? 00:58:51 - When you are deployed are people around your same age? Or is it people in all different age groups like the trail? 01:00:16 - Can you compare your platoon mates and your tramily? 01:02:35 - Can you talk about why you liked hiking with Dylan? 01:04:14 - Are you playing with fire if you ask about the merits of war with someone who has served?  01:06:07 - How did your brother interact with Dylan (knowing you came from a conservative family)? 01:07:29 - What do you think helped your enlightenment on your AT journey?  01:09:50 - Can you talk more about your spiritual awakening?  01:13:40 - Is thru-hiking a good tool for veterans? Do you have any general advice for veterans listening?  01:16:27 - How would someone describe the differences in your personality post-Iraq vs. post-trail?  01:20:29 - Can you tell us about the dog sled training in Alaska?  01:23:00 - Do you stand on the back of a sled? 01:23:37 - How fast do you go? Does it feel like skiing? 01:25:28 - Did you ever see a grizzly?  01:27:47 - Where do we get the book? Nathan website.    SEGMENTS    The Thru-Hiker’s Guide to Tyvek by Jesse Metzger  A Thru-Hiker’s Guide to the AMC Hut System by Jesse Metzger Triple Crown of Tips To Lighten Your Pack  Ask Reddit: What’s something small that happens and ignites an uncontrollable rage in you?  Email your pet peeves to podcast@thetrek.co 1-Minute Gear Review  Patent Pending: Zoom Contacts Pupdate (Stoned Harper Pics)  Mini-Mail Bag / Insta Q’s  5-Star Reviews  Comment _____ to win a sticker! [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, DcNerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Backcountry.com, we are joined by Neville Harris.  Neville is the owner and head honcho at Woods Hole Hostel, regarded as one of the top hostels (if not the top hostel) along the entire Appalachian Trail.  Neville shares a bit about her meditation practice and the impact it's had on her life, she walks us through a typical day at Woods Hole Hostel, how COVID has impacted her business, how running the hostel played a role in her recent divorce, and much more.  Whether you've stayed at Woods Hole or not, we think you're really going to enjoy this chat. We also debate where to teleport 10 tons of jello to maximize destruction, do a triple crown of appetizers, and have a one minute gear review.    Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Minus33 discount code (listen to episode to get the code): 15% off your first purchase at minus33.com. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Neville Harris of Woods Hole Hostel on the Appalachian Trail. Website Instagram 00:06:18: QOTD: if you could pick a day to be your birthday besides your actual birthday, what day would you pick?  00:10:12 - What is Woods Hole Hostel? How did you get into the hiking culture?  00:11:40 - Where is Woods Hole Hostel? 00:11:54 - Where is the closest town? 00:12:59 - Tell us about the intricacies of Woods Hole Hostel?  00:17:30 - Are you religious? 00:18:20 - How long are you meditating?  00:18:38 - Do you have a particular practice you follow? 00:19:45 - Can you give us an overview of your meditation approach? 00:21:20 - What are the benefits you see from meditation? 00:23:39 - Are you in communication with other trail angels in the area?  00:24:50 - Is meditation offered through Woods Hole? 00:25:30 - Do you lead a yoga class?  00:26:30 - Will you walk us through a day at Woods Hole Hostel? 00:28:11 - What’s on the Woods Hole menu usually? 00:33:00 - How do you can food? 00:34:47 - How did you feel taking in hikers during coronavirus?  00:41:53- How many people stay with you in a year?  00:44:40 - Can you talk about the animals at Woods Hole Hostel?  00:49:33 - How do you balance helping hikers and running a business?  00:51:43 - How was running the hostel with a partner vs. alone?  00:52:44 - What led you to choose between the hiking community and your husband?  00:55:16 - Can you talk about hikers leaving critiques about your husband?  00:57:09 - What about the hiker community do you love so much? 01:00:56 - How do you prevent burnout?  01:02:58 - How have you seen the hiking community change over the years?  01:05:16 - Do you think technology has had any effect?  01:07:17 - Do you take outside donations?  Woods Hole Website — Donation  SEGMENTSTrek Propaganda The Beer Drinker’s Guide: Best Breweries on the Colorado Trail by Kelly Floro  A Mountain Lion Follows Utah Trail Runner for Six Terrifying Minutes by Kelly Floro  Triple Crown of Appetizers Is buffalo chicken a common meat topping for nachos? Discuss. Point / Counterpoint: Stovetop vs. Oven Dad Wisdom from Zach: Cleaning a Cast Iron Skillet  Reddit Brain Buster One-Minute Gear Review  Chaunce: Weighted Vest Zach: Solar Charged Lantern/Charger  Mail Bag (Brought to you by Backcountry.com) 5-Star Review Pupdate! Comment _____ for a free sticker! [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, DcNerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Backcountry.com, we are joined by Neville Harris.  Neville is the owner and head honcho at Woods Hole Hostel, regarded as one of the top hostels (if not the top hostel) along the entire Appalachian Trail.  Neville shares a bit about her meditation practice and the impact it's had on her life, she walks us through a typical day at Woods Hole Hostel, how COVID has impacted her business, how running the hostel played a role in her recent divorce, and much more.  Whether you've stayed at Woods Hole or not, we think you're really going to enjoy this chat. We also debate where to teleport 10 tons of jello to maximize destruction, do a triple crown of appetizers, and have a one minute gear review.    Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Minus33 discount code (listen to episode to get the code): 15% off your first purchase at minus33.com. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Neville Harris of Woods Hole Hostel on the Appalachian Trail. Website Instagram 00:06:18: QOTD: if you could pick a day to be your birthday besides your actual birthday, what day would you pick?  00:10:12 - What is Woods Hole Hostel? How did you get into the hiking culture?  00:11:40 - Where is Woods Hole Hostel? 00:11:54 - Where is the closest town? 00:12:59 - Tell us about the intricacies of Woods Hole Hostel?  00:17:30 - Are you religious? 00:18:20 - How long are you meditating?  00:18:38 - Do you have a particular practice you follow? 00:19:45 - Can you give us an overview of your meditation approach? 00:21:20 - What are the benefits you see from meditation? 00:23:39 - Are you in communication with other trail angels in the area?  00:24:50 - Is meditation offered through Woods Hole? 00:25:30 - Do you lead a yoga class?  00:26:30 - Will you walk us through a day at Woods Hole Hostel? 00:28:11 - What’s on the Woods Hole menu usually? 00:33:00 - How do you can food? 00:34:47 - How did you feel taking in hikers during coronavirus?  00:41:53- How many people stay with you in a year?  00:44:40 - Can you talk about the animals at Woods Hole Hostel?  00:49:33 - How do you balance helping hikers and running a business?  00:51:43 - How was running the hostel with a partner vs. alone?  00:52:44 - What led you to choose between the hiking community and your husband?  00:55:16 - Can you talk about hikers leaving critiques about your husband?  00:57:09 - What about the hiker community do you love so much? 01:00:56 - How do you prevent burnout?  01:02:58 - How have you seen the hiking community change over the years?  01:05:16 - Do you think technology has had any effect?  01:07:17 - Do you take outside donations?  Woods Hole Website — Donation  SEGMENTSTrek Propaganda The Beer Drinker’s Guide: Best Breweries on the Colorado Trail by Kelly Floro  A Mountain Lion Follows Utah Trail Runner for Six Terrifying Minutes by Kelly Floro  Triple Crown of Appetizers Is buffalo chicken a common meat topping for nachos? Discuss. Point / Counterpoint: Stovetop vs. Oven Dad Wisdom from Zach: Cleaning a Cast Iron Skillet  Reddit Brain Buster One-Minute Gear Review  Chaunce: Weighted Vest Zach: Solar Charged Lantern/Charger  Mail Bag (Brought to you by Backcountry.com) 5-Star Review Pupdate! Comment _____ for a free sticker! [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, DcNerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by India Wood.  India, despite having no backpacking experience, decided to hike diagonally across the state of Colorado, from the southeast to the northwest corner of the state.  Along the way she had an encounter with a bear, had soft threats of being shot by rangers, and learned the importance of digging a cat hole the night before.  We learn how India went about planning her route, the challenges associated with doing such a hike during COVID, and what advice she has for others who want to create their own unique hiking routes.  We have a triple crown of halloween candy, dive into our favorite youtube videos, get into an impromptu debate about wearing leggings in ranch country, and get a horse fact about moose. [divider] Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: PoopStory for 15% off your entire cart at gossamergear.com (does not apply to sale items).  Zpacks discount code: Use code: BPRPLEX for $25 off any plex tent at zpacks.com. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] 00:06:17 - Why did you decide to hike across Colorado?  00:07:27 - Can you talk about drawing up your route?  00:08:11 - Take us deep into the specifics of the route?  00:11:09 - When you were talking to the person that helped you with maps, did he think you were crazy? Did he pry about your hiking experience?  00:16:05 - How many road crossings did you cache water at? Did you have it buried? Tell us about water logistics! 00:20:04 - Are you staging your car and then doing an out and back?  00:20:58 - What was it like getting hitches? Did you get hitches?  00:22:54 - Tell us about your time in the prairie section of Colorado?  00:25:20 - Did you know all the types of grasses in the prairie?  00:26:23 - What’s the most interesting turd you saw?  00:27:27 - Do you have any grass or prairie facts?  00:28:27 - Can you talk about your family? 00:29:44 - What’s the name of your daughter’s documentary?  00:30:24 - What did your family think of you taking on the hike?  00:33:09 - What happened with your bear encounter?  00:43:30 - Can you talk about the transition of hiking through the prairie and then through the mountains?  00:45:00 - Was Bear Peak in your training regimen?  00:46:44 - Where did you go from Minturn?  00:48:04 - What went wrong with your maps?  00:52:47 - Were you ever tempted to turn down a private road?  00:54:59 - Where did you run into the man who was wanted?  00:56:14 - Do you have a detailed outline of your route anywhere?  00:57:47 - Why did you choose southeast to northwest?  00:58:36 - What kind of dinosaur did you find?  00:59:25 - Do you think the southeast corner is more beautiful than where you come into CO on 70? 01:01:17 - What’s a good town to go to in the southeast corner?  01:05:02 - Did this hike give you the adventure itch?  01:06:05 - Would you stay in a hotel if you did a transect of metro Denver? 01:06:28 - Did you carry anything to protect yourself on your hike? Was your safety something you were highly concerned about?  01:08:23 - Were there ever political debates that ensued when you said you were from Boulder?  01:10:09 - What do you think would happen to Chaunce if she was hiking through ranch country in leggings?  01:11:40 - Is the area you primarily saw other people through the Breckenridge area? 01:11:56 - Do you have any general pieces of advice for people wanting to develop their own hike?  01:12:55 - Will India’s talk be on Youtube? Yes, the link is here.  01:13:00 - Any last pieces of advice?  01:14:10 - Where should people go to learn more about you and your hike? Your books?   Facebook Website Segments  Debate: Is it safe for women to wear leggings in ranch country?  Triple Crown of the Best Halloween Candy  Triple Crown of the Worst Halloween Candy  Ask ??? > Send us your favorite videos! Zach: Bloopers from Anchor Man Chaunce: Shia Labeouf Live - Rob Cantor  1 Minute Gear Reviews  Zach: Native Sunglasses Chaunce: Lulu Lemon Leggings Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews  Comment _____ to win a sticker! Message Backcountry, send us screenshots! Hiking from Home by Chaunce and How to Afford a Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, DcNerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Chaunce and Fireball (who you likely remember for the Girls Stuff episode), to walk us through their hike of the John Muir Trail.  In addition to learning about all of the particulars of the trail, Chaunce and Fireball regale us with tales from their trek that include nude modeling for tourists, their favorite swimming holes, and the time Chaunce pooped alongside a stranger.   We have a one minute gear review, bring back patent pending, get a pupdate, and discuss why crossfit is great training for backcountry dumps. [divider] Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: PoopStory for 15% off your entire cart at gossamergear.com (does not apply to sale items).  Zpacks discount code: Use code: BPRPLEX for $25 off any plex tent at zpacks.com. Ture Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] 00:04:20 - QOTD: What is the dumbest thing you’ve done this month? 00:12:45 - Trek Ambassador Program  00:14:27 - What are the standard JMT facts? 00:15:13 - Why did you do the extra miles? 00:15:36 - How did you get from where you left your car to the trailhead? 00:16:33 - Did this fill in your PCT gaps? 00:17:29 - Anything else you want to add from a basic JMT standpoint? 00:18:27 - Fireball, have you done any hiking in the Sierra before? 00:19:10 - What were the days you did the JMT? 00:19:24 - Pros and cons of hiking the Sierra in mid-August? 00:20:03 - Would you go at the same time again? 00:20:55 - How were the crowds? 00:22:00 - Did you meet PCT hikers? 00:22:41 - Did anyone reference mile, mile and a half? 00:23:41 - So Fireball wakes up earlier than Chaunce? 00:25:18 - Why did you choose southbound?  00:28:00 - How did you train for the PCT? 00:34:18 - Did Chaunce get heat exhaustion? 00:39:19 - Favorite parts of the trail? Aesthetic highlights?  00:42:00 - Chaunce and Fireball got caught skinny dipping? 00:45:20 - Were you prepared for how cold the lakes were? 00:46:39 - Do you remember Garnett Lake?  00:47:47 - Chaunce ran into a previous guest? Crazy Jack Northam  00:50:20 - Did Chaunce and Fireball hike together at all? 00:56:49 - Any other highlights?  00:59:59 - Did you miss Harper?  Follower Questions: 01:01:09 - How gorgeous was it in real life?  01:04:31 - You guys only resupplied once on the entire hike? 01:08:01 - What are the details on VVR? We don’t know, reach out to Weezer! 01:08:28 - Still no chafe Chaunce?  01:10:08 - Is the JMT a good starter for those looking to get into thru-hiking? 01:13:11 - What do you think the JMT numbers are like this year? 01:14:22 - What is Fireball’s instagram handle? @Mimmmsy  01:15:37 - Chaunce will you tell us your poop story?  01:25:49 - A man asked, what is one thing you think I should know?  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  Sign up for the Newsletter Patent Pending: Cat Claws / Balloon Floaties  1 Minute Gear Review Gossamer Gear Mariposa / Athleta Shirt Pupdates Baby Updates Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews Become a Patron for Bonus Episodes (specifically, The Dumpster Fire episode). [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Brandon Spiker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, DcNerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dan Durston.  Dan is the gear nerd's gear nerd.  In addition to hiking the PCT and being one of only two people to yo-yo the Great Divide Trail (the other being his wife as they did it together), Dan is visionary behind the new gear company, Durston Gear.  We go way deep down the rabbit hole on why polyester tents are making a comeback and are possibly the ultimate fabric for shelters, how he's able to execute on his philosophy of creating lightweight gear that's super easy to setup, how his being a loudmouth on the Backpackinglight forums made his gear company possible, and much more.  If you're into gear technology, even if you're not, we bet you're really going to enjoy this conversation. Also, our buddy Legend breaks another FKT, we have another Reddit Brain Buster, and we have a point counter point on the virtues of summer vs. fall backpacking.   Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: PoopStory for 15% off your entire cart at gossamergear.com.  "How to Afford a Thru-Hike" discount code: "ipooped" [divider] Interview with Dan Durston: Durstongear.com @Durstongear on Instagram Dan Durston Youtube Motorscooterguide.net  00:03:16 - QOTD: What’s an “oh shit” moment where you’ve realized you’ve been doing something the wrong way for years?  00:07:18 - Intro to Dan Durston 00:07:26 - What is your backpacking resume?  00:09:54 - Do you have to push gear by setting FKTs? 00:10:32 - Do you own the gear company? Are you not the sole proprietor of Dan Durston Gear?   00:12:09 - Do you get a royalty of every product sold?  00:12:59 - Did you also hike the PCT with your wife? 00:13:24 - How did you get into backpacking?  00:14:40 - You were determined to get your pack weight down before your first trip? 00:14:56 - How light was your pack when you first started? 00:16:38 - Did seeing someone do a whole 50-mile trail in a day create the origin for you going ultralight? 00:17:47 - When did the shift to ultralight happen? Was Backpacking Light involved in that?  00:18:40 - What were your big 3 when you were at 5 pounds? 00:20:00 - Were you giving gear companies feedback when you were testing products?  00:21:25 - To become a gear tester do you just go on backpacking forums and be loud? 00:21:44 - What did you bring on the PCT? 00:22:24 - Had you started making your own gear already on the PCT? 00:23:33 - How did you get into making your own gear?  00:24:23 - What is the hardest thing to make yourself? Packs? 00:26:26 - Advice to someone who wants to get a cottage industry pack but is worried about fit?  00:27:42 - Is there any benefit to going to REI and measuring packs there?  00:28:22 - What is the process with your designs going to manufacturing? 00:30:40 - Are you the only one doing product testing on Dan Durston Gear? 00:32:15 - Who is Dan Durston Gear for? Who is the target market? 00:36:49 - What makes setting up your tents so simple?  00:37:39 - Do you have any photos of your disaster feet? 00:39:01 - How tall are you?  00:49:36 - How did drop.com find you?  00:50:29 - What do you mean by ‘being a loudmouth on backpacking light’?  00:51:24 - Have you solved the condensation issue that most ultralight tents have?  00:52:43 -  So should you not ventilate your tent when sleeping in humid areas? 00:55:14 - What are your recommendations for campsite selection to avoid condensation? 00:57:03 - Talk about polyester tents! 00:58:00 - What’s the weight difference between polyester and nylon? 00:59:48 - So what is the strongest fabric?  01:02:30 - Does the fabric make the tent more prone to smell or mildew? 01:03:35 - How long should you leave your tent out to dry? 01:04:31 - Is there a proper way to clean and store a tent? 01:05:30 - How often should you replace tents? 01:07:00 - How do you store your tent? Stuff or fold and roll? 01:10:51 - Who is the X-mid made for?  01:13:18 - If Dan Duston Gear didn’t exist and you had one tent you had to use for all purposes, what would you pick?  01:14:13 - Will there ever be a DCF X-Mid? 01:16:58 - Would you consider Dan Durston Gear to be ultralight?  01:17:27 - Do you think there is a lot of room for improvement in the cottage industry UL gear space?  01:19:15 - If you could name the Dan Durston backpack what would you name it?  01:19:43 - Will you talk us through the pack?  01:21:43 - Can you get a 40 oz beer in the pocket?  01:22:28 - What is the mesh material on the shoulder strap?  01:24:19 - What is the advantage of X-Pac?  01:29:09 - What are some other pack companies that use X-Pac? 01:31:25 - What is the weight on the Dan Durston pack and what does it go for?  01:33:31 - What was it that took your company to the next level?  01:35:30 - What would Dan Durston’s gear slogan be?  01:36:44 - Can you talk about the Great Divide Trail?  01:39:33 - Where does the GDT start and end and where does it go through?  01:42:06 - What is the seasonality for the GDT? 01:42:51 - What kind of miles can you do on snowshoes?  01:43:28 - Can you tell us about the mosquitoes?  01:42:59 - What would you say is the “Sierra” of the GDT? Or “the desert”?  01:45:04 - What is the non-profit that oversees the GDT? 01:46:28 - Can you run into grizzlies the entire way?  01:46:45 - Do you have any scary grizzly stories?  01:48:24 - Has anyone died on the GDT from a grizzly encounter?  01:49:41 - What is the resupply like?  01:50:38 - Do you have to mail resupply boxes?  01:51:28 - Are you able to get 10 days of food in your pack?  01:52:00 - What inspired the yo-yo of the GDT? 01:52:29 - Were you able to enjoy the southbound hike as much as the northbound hike?  01:53:53 - What are some good Canadian snacks?  01:55:09 - In Canada do you have to order Canadian bacon to get Canadian bacon? 01:55:36 - Where should people go for your stuff?  Durstongear.com @Durstongear on Instagram Dan Durston Youtube Motorscooterguide.net  01:56:04 - Is there anything else you are as obsessed with planning as your gear? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda - Legend Broke the Colorado Trail Unsupported FKT  Sign up for The Trek newsletter! Reddit Brain Busters Point/Counterpoint: Summer vs. Fall Hiking  Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews! [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Paul Packman Sealy, Jason Lawrence, Janelle L., Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Tommy Corey, aka Twerk, sometimes known as Twerkinthedirt, sometimes known as the guy behind Hiker Trash Vogue.  Twerk gives us a runthrough on his experiences backpacking the PCT, how the Hiker Trash Vogue project came to be, what doors this wildly popular photo project has opened for him.  We also talk about his experiences of what it's like to be a gay man in the thru-hiking community. We close out the show with a Triple Crown of Autumn Ahhhhs, talk about how much it costs to pee on Chaunce's face every morning for the rest of her life, a one minute gear review, and we try to determine how much money Chaunce can make by selling foot photos.   Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: PoopStory for 15% off your entire cart at gossamergear.com.  Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Greenbelly discount code: Use code: Trek2020 for 10% off your first purchase at greenbelly.co  How To Afford A Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro (use code "ipooped" to save $2!) [divider] 00:04:43 - Chaunce is back! 00:06:19 - QOTD: Non-traditional ways to track your mileage?  00:10:49 - Intro to Twerk! 00:11:01 - How did you get the trail name Twerk?  00:12:32 - How did you first get into backpacking? 00:14:19 - Did Chaunce and Twerk cross paths?  00:15:30 - Twerk’s first backpacking trip through the Three Sisters Loop 00:16:05 - Did that trip build excitement or anxiety for your attempted thru? 00:17:39 - Do you think the fact that being close to where you grew up made it easier to get off trail the first time?  00:20:10 - Did you want to rejoin your friends on trail? 00:21:04 - Did you experience the same level of hardship in 2018 as 2017?  00:26:10 - Would you do the PCT again? 00:30:00 - Zach shares a poop story! 00:31:34 - Twerk’s poop story! 00:34:30 - Can you tell us about your photography background? 00:36:24 - How did photography play into your 2017 hike?  00:37:28 - Do you think learning how to long-distance hike in 2017 helped you be able to work on Hiker Trash Vogue in 2018?  00:40:30 - How did you edit your photos on trail?  00:41:03 - What is Hiker Trash Vogue?  00:41:50 - Will you walk us through some of your favorite photos?  00:43:06 - Can you tell us some stories behind your photos?  00:45:47 - Do you have experience shooting high fashion/editorial photography? 00:47:01 - Was it difficult to get people to model?  00:49:04 - What is your pitch to get people to pose for Hiker Trash Vogue?  00:52”02 - Did you do any landscape photography along the way? 00:54:20 - How did you decide to evolve Hiker Trash Vogue? Can you talk about the books? 00:56:18 - Did you make your layouts in InDesign?  00:57:22 - How much does it cost to make a Hiker Trash Vogue book?  00:59:23 - Did the quality of the second book suffer because it was less of a passion project?  01:01:14 - Do you have limited runs of your books?  01:01:39 - Would you ever put your book on Amazon? 01:02:47 - What is your day-to-day like now?  01:03:45 - Have you gotten freelance work from your Hiker Trash Vogue series? 01:04:42 - Do people hit you up to do weddings?  01:05:39 - Is being a wedding photographer a coveted job or highly stressful? 01:07:17 - Where should people go if they want Twerk to shoot their wedding? 01:08:34 - Can you speak to what it’s like being a gay hiker?  01:10:23 - Was there anything in the Gummy Bear episode that you could elaborate on? Or things you want to expand on?  01:11:37 - Were you at all concerned about it leading up to your hike?  01:12:51 - What were relationships like on trail?  01:15:42 - Did you see many other LGBTQ hikers?  01:18:10 - Why Representation Matters 01:19:03 - Were there resources you used as a gay man before hiking that you think would help others?  01:26:12 - Any recommendations for diversifying your feed?  @switchbackshawty @lassosafroworld @rongriswell 01:27:44 - What is your Instagram?  @twerkinthedirt 01:27:56 - What’s coming up? What are you looking forward to? 01:31:16 - Anything you wanna plug?  Tommycorey.com  @twerkinthedirt How To Afford A Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro (use code "ipooped" to save $2!) The Triple Crown of Autumn Ahhhs Zach is having a baby (and rapid-fire questions from Chaunce)! Reddit Brain Busters 1 minute gear review:  Chaunce: $5 Walmart Floaty Zach: Yeti Tundra Haul  Mail Bag Five-Star Reviews Comment ______ to win a Backpacker Radio sticker! [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Paul Packman Sealy, Jason Lawrence, Janelle L., Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.   MEDIOCRE TRANSCRIPT In today's episode of backpacker radio presented by the Trek. We are joined by Tommy Corey, AKA twerk, sometimes known as Twerk in the dirt, sometimes known as the guy behind hiker trash Vogue to work. It gives us a run through on his experiences, backpacking the PCT, how hiker trash Vogue became a project. What doors this wildly popular photo series has opened for him and much more. We also talk about his experiences of what it's like to be a gay man in the thriving community. We close out the show with a triple crown of autumn ahhs. Talk about how much it costs to pee on Chauncey's face every morning for the rest of her life, a one minute gear review, and we try to determine how much money Charles can make by selling foot photos. Lastly quick aside in the Trek propaganda section of today's show, we introduce how to afford it through here. A new ebook from the Trek written by Kelly fluoro use coupon code. I pooped all lower case. One word to score eight, $2 discount on this book. Okay. Here are some ads. Today's show is brought to you by back country.com, a premier online specialty, retailer of outdoor gear and apparel, carrying thousands of brands and products for your everyday outdoor lifestyle back country's mission is to break down the barriers between humans and nature. Not only does that country have the widest assortment of gear and apparel, but the heart and soul of the company lies with their back country gear heads. These gear heads are former pro athletes, Olympians and all around experts that are available 24 seven by mail, email Kat for your one on one service product recommendations, and to ensure you have everything you need for your next outdoor adventure back country carries a ton of gear that both Johnson I used and love. A couple of examples include the Patagonia baggies. My go to short, the ultra lone peaks might go to trail runner. The ultra temps chances go to Trey winner. The big Agnes tiger wall. My favorite semi freestanding tents. And of course darn tough socks, which are beloved by hiker trash. Everywhere. You can save 15% off your first purchase back country.com by using coupon code backpacker 15 at checkout. Some exclusions do apply. And if you want to do old Badger and Sean's a mega favor, please visit back country.com/backpacker radio. This way they will know we sent you again. The code is backpacker 15 and the URL is a back country.com/backpacker radio gets them in case you're not already familiar. Green belly is the maker of. One of the most complete nutrition bars on the market, it'll contain 650 calories each more than two and a half times. The energy of a cliff bar. Think of them like cereal bars on steroids because green Belize meals are ready to eat, requiring no stove or cleanup. They make the perfect mid day trail meal. Their meals are super light and made with wholesome ingredients with flavors like peanut apricots, dark chocolate, banana mango, cashew coconut. Cranberry almond and their new flavor, spice caramel Apple, which is every bit as good as it sounds. It tastes great in our handmade, fresh every week. Todd and I both love the texture of these bars. They're dense, but still soft. They're also not too sweet, which is a nice change of pace in the world of sugary meal replacement bars. The bars are great for long distance drafts. As the founder, Christopher cage is himself a filmmaker. You may recognize that name from his appearance on the Joe Rogan experience and good news for you. Our wonderful backpacker radio listeners, you get an exclusive 10% discount. Site-wide at green belly. Just use code Trek 2020. At checkout at their website, green belly.co. Again, that's Trek 20 twenty@greenbelly.com. Don't wait. This deal is only good for limited time. Welcome to backpacker radio presented by the Trek, brought to you by back country.com. I am your cohost, Zach Badger Davis, and sitting to my two o'clock is hi, I'm Juliana Jonsi AKA Chauncey. Hey, welcome back to the show. Thanks. I forgot I was gone. Yeah. Oh, it was nice. Do you want to do a run through on I wasn't planning on putting you on blast that just kind of happened. Um, I went to hike the JMT John Muir trail and the Sierra. We are going to cover it on a future episode where we catch up with me and Zach and Elise and the hikes that we've done. Um, and it was amazing. I started 50 miles further North on the PCT. So I started at Sonora pass, um, and hike South to Whitney and exited via the Whitney portal. Um, and I went with fireball from the girl stuff episode. Um, we did it in 15 days, I think. Or 16 days. What'd you call it? Her, her, Oh, it's Jaden name for it. Yeah, that was the one. Yeah. Um, yeah, so I went with fireball on her who ha and, um, I was so nice. I that's. I just, it was so nice. Yeah. Uh, the part that you weren't at the show was our wires got crossed on, in terms of timing, you were planning on pulling a 12 hour drive to get back for our six o'clock recording. And our recording was at 2:00 PM. So I looked into that. I was going to let this slide, I was gonna let you off the hook. Um, you changed the calendar notification while I was on my 10 day stretch without cool. You get to edit this out publicly. I, you and I had a conversation about it before you left. Did we really? Yeah. A hundred percent. Oh, Well, I'm done for next time. Today's question of the day. Is, does China need Gingko? Biloba? No. Uh, none. So non traditional ways to track your mileage. This was your one. So I'm gonna let you kick it off. Okay. So on the PCT, I used to track my mileage, like obviously by checking gut hooks, but then you want to stop yourself from looking at the map so that you don't constantly check your map. Um, so just. By nature of. Just noticing a pattern. I noticed that every five songs was roughly a mile when I was listening to music. Um, so I started tracking songs or tracking miles in songs. And so I had just like completely stopped listening to music just because I wasn't actually listening and it wouldn't skip a song if it was halfway through. And I didn't want to hear it. Cause I was like, what the hell? It'll mess up my account. Oh, their races. My mileage. Yeah, exactly. Yeah. But on the JMT just now recently, um, I had a lot of jolly ranchers on me and I tried, what have I forgot what I was going down a Hill. And it was like a long downhill. It was like six miles. And I had nothing else to think about. And I was like, I wonder how long it takes to eat a jolly rancher, if you don't chew it. And it was like 30 to 35 minutes. So I started figuring out that a jolly rancher would roughly get me a mile. Um, cause I wasn't going particularly fast, but yeah. So if I ate four jolly ranchers, I was like, okay, I've gone about four miles now. Like that's four jolly ranchers. Does that incentivize you to eat more candy? Because the more candy you eat, the further you get by that metric. Uh, yeah, I definitely ate all of the jolly ranchers that I had. Um, I was rationing them towards the end though, because I ate them on the uphills. They helped for me to not like keep stopping, cause my mouth was dry. So I kept eating them on uphills. And then I was running low on the second stretch. Um, so I had to ration myself to three jolly ranchers a day, but I just saved them for them. Mmm. So two answers to this one. Mine is the first one's pretty basic time. And I feel like I'm getting pretty good at estimating. Like I know assuming the train's not either very easy or very difficult going to be able to pull a mile and about 20 minutes, three miles per hour, that's pretty much my standard pace. Um, and even if the train is in one of those two directions, I can usually mentally adjust for it. Like I know if it's been 22 minutes and I'm on a steep uphill. Probably about 0.8, 2.9 miles a point, I guess the other one, and this one is way more neurotic. This is from having a pedometer on my watch for the last six years or so is I know precisely how many steps it takes for me to do any amount of distance. So I know 500 steps as a quarter mile, 2000 steps as a mile. So you're counting to 2000 while you're walking. There are times where I will count. Like if, if I'm too in my head and I feel like the time's going slowly, it, it actually acts as a meditation for me. Not necessarily, it's, it's less so to actually measure my distance and more so to just distract me from my boredom of hiking. Is that not like watching, like the kettle boil, like you're literally counting to 2000 and then starting over. And then starting over and it's like, cool, I've done three miles. And it feels like 17 years. Yeah. It, it, it literally, I use it purely as like a meditative practice. So instead of like focusing on my breathing, I'll just focusing on, I'll just focus on counting. Wow. I did read the first page of one of your books and you did put like, You know, it was like 5 million steps. Then you put that, like, it was like 5 million steps to complete the trail or something like that. The first page. Yeah. And that that's not come from the pedometer math. I think that's an old AT idiom. You can also, you know, I think it's generally understood that. 2000 steps is about a mile for most people. You're in Julia and you're like, shit lost count drive back to Mexico or to Canada. I keep a running, uh, one of those little step counters. What's the, there's a clicky thing. They have them at Walmart's. Now I need to count how many people come in and out. Patent pending. Alright. Uh, skip the shirt reminder. Should we've mentioned it. I feel like we don't have any new merge, so it's not worth mentioning. I mean, you just mentioned that. Okay. Yeah, we have, we have merged. Cool. Okay. Let's get to today's main events. Gentlemen. We've been covering the, have on the show for a long time back in the day when we would, uh, Hold out for getting guests in person. I think I've been reaching out to twerk for the last year and a half about coming on the show and we just haven't been able to make it work. Um, but very excited to officially give him the warm backpacker radio. Welcome it. Is torque. Do you prefer your trail name or do you want to go by Tommy? What do you want to do here? I mean, first fine. Yeah. I like, yeah, let's jump right into the trail name because I think I can take a good guess at it, but I'm curious to get the full story. How did you get the trail name to work? I mean, it's a name you earn. Yeah. Uh, yeah. Think it was my first hike in 17 when I did, I dunno, like 900 miles and then quit. Um, I carried a little Bluetooth speaker with me on trail and at the end of the night, I would, uh, I would get all the hikers in a circle and we listened to music and I had everyone like go around and like do their own stretch. And one night we were doing it and I was up against the tree. So I said, Hey, everyone has to come to the tree and like go upside down and twerk. Um, and there also had been a rip the liner of my shorts and I wear very short shorts. So. I think one of the first names was bought back and I was like, I'm not writing home about that. So someone suggested work and I was like, Oh, that fits me a lot better. So yeah. Toric or boss act or indecent exposure. Yeah, exactly. I knew I just, I had a feeling I was going to get something stupid. So I was like, well, I'll just take it now. Yeah. Um, and I don't want to bury the lead here. Anyone who is familiar with the hiking community, Instagram has seen twerks Instagram posts. I feel like if you've been on Instagram in the last three years, I don't care who you are. You've seen hiker trash Vogue. So. We're going to get to that. Let's just, let's just put that as a hanging thought. Let's get to the background of how did you first get into backpacking? Mmm. I, so when I lived in Portland, my roommate, who was actually one of my good friends, they all, but he was just a, you know, I, my roommate slept and I needed a roommate. So I found a roommate on this. And as a kid, Andrew, who happened to hike the 80, a few years prior to moving in with me. And, uh, he was. Planning for a PCT 17 hike and had kept like, mentioning like, Oh, you should like do the PCT. And I was like, nah, I was like, I'm never going to fucking do the PCT. Like I'm not, you know, like, it just doesn't sound fun. Also quick background. My oldest brother, Joe, he ha he threw hike in 2011. So I already knew what the PCT was. I like kind of knew what it entailed. My brother did it on a high snow year, so I heard a lot of horror stories. Uh, And, um, so I was just like, Oh, that's like, when my brother did it, like, my family was like, he's fucking crazy, like theirs. So I was just like, there was no way in hell I'd ever do that, but he's, I dunno, my anyway, Andrew just kept like asking me and asking me. And one night we, he had, uh, the night he broke up with his girlfriend. Um, I brought over a bunch of wine and we just like sat on the floor and I just, I jumped in late, decided I was like, fine, I'll fucking do it. I'll go with like, I'll go with you. Um, and I'm, and I'm like very big on like, not backing down from things. Like, if I say I'm going to do something, I'm usually the kind of person that like shows up. So that's when I decided here you go. Uh, so, so your first PCT hike was 2017. Yeah. So Sean says here, did you guys cross paths at all? No, I don't think so. Where you going North? Yeah. When did you start? April 22nd. Okay. You probably passed me at some point. I started April 4th, but it was like moving at a snail pace. Okay. Oh no, I, I probably definitely did not pass it. I was, I was like 12, 15 milers. Okay. Yeah, maybe not. Then maybe we were just like to move the points. Yeah. Like 1250 miles a day, maybe 18 if I like had a good day and then like lots of zeros. Yeah. That sounds like my desert experience as well. Yeah. Yeah. So give us the full rundown on your 2017 hike. You mentioned that you're someone that doesn't back down from things. Um, this was, is this your first backpacking trip ever? Uh, I only did one, me and Andrew and my buddy did that sister's loop, which was my first backpacking trip ever in 2016. So we did 50 miles around the three sisters here actually right outside of bend. And. It was like super fun, but like I was limping to the car and I remember like, I remember being really pissed off cause my buddy camera and just kept being like, I think it's only a couple more miles and I'm like, I'm literally gonna fucking choke you. If you say that one more time. I just want to get to the car. Uh, so it was like really hard. Like I, and it was a four day trip, you know, like now it's like, you know, like that sounds super easy. We did like. You know, like 13 miles, I think 16 was the biggest day, like nine miles, you know? Um, so it's kind of funny to look back on that and think about how hard it was, but I kinda just like threw myself into it. Uh, so yeah, that was the first backpacking trip. And then I didn't do anything at all. Like anything physical really until I did CC. So did that short, I guess, short as relative, does that trip builds excitement or anxiety for your attempted through. Uh, I think it was a little bit, yeah, both. I was just like, fuck, like, this is really hard, but it's really fun. So like, I wonder how the PCT will be. Um, and then, you know, it's like as soon as you're on the, on the trail, like as soon as you get to the terms, you just start walking. I'm like, okay, well, yeah, this sucks. I have blisters and like things hurt, but they're like already out there. So there's nothing really to like, have anxiety about it. Just more like the daunting, like. Oh, man, I have to get up and do this again tomorrow kind of thing. But yeah, and I had a great year. Like he made a lot of friends in 17, we got the Kennedy Meadows and I was like, Nope, not going to the Sierras. So I skipped up to nor Cal and then like barely saw really anyone I knew and, um, ended up. Quitting like a couple of weeks later, just cause I was just like, Oh, you know what, this isn't for me. Um, and then I went, I went back to Portland like a week later, moved in with my old roommate, went back to my old job. They let me back. And like within a few months I was like, Oh, damn like, especially when all my friends started finishing and posting their photos, I was like, Oh shit. I like really wish I would have like, stayed out there. Um, and so I literally, I immediately just like stopped going out, stopped doing things and just started saving my money and was like, I'm gonna get a permit and I'm going to go again next year. I'm actually going to do it. Did the fact that in nor Cal, you were close to Redding, like where you grew up. Contribute to you wanting to get off the trail. Cause I know on the 80, when I got to New York, it was near home. That was like, eh, I don't have to go back out there. Like I was kind of getting those feelings of I'm comfortable here. Like I don't want to be uncomfortable again. Did that play into it at all? Yeah, honestly, I think that did have like a, I think it had like a pretty big part in it, but you know, a significant part like, Oh, like. I'm just walking around home right now. I mean, I haven't lived there in years. I, you know, been living in Portland up until I started hiking. Um, but yeah, it was kind of that comfortability I'm like, well, it would just be so much easier to go home and like, you know, like have a shower and like a bed. Um, so yeah, and I knew my parents like would like, come get me if I needed to. But I also just, like, at that point, I like really wasn't having that much fun either. Um, I don't know. I think if I would have, like, for me, like, I obviously love the hiking now. Like I know that, but for me, I was like, I wanted to go out there and like take photos, but I just didn't feel really, I didn't feel I was inspired in 2017 as I did going back in 2018. And I'm glad you mentioned, Oh, sorry, go ahead. Oh, I was just going to say, yeah, and I think. I wonder how my height would have been different if I hadn't like done like hiker trash bow. Cause I think that had a big part of me really wanting to hike the entire trail and finish. Yeah. So I want to, I want to pin that point for a second, but I'm, I'm glad that you brought up. Your story in terms of you getting off and experiencing that instant regret, because I've seen that template so many times just through what I do with the Trek. If I had a nickel for every time, I've seen someone get off the trail and then, you know, within a month, the. There's a tidal wave of regret of their decision, and they're already plotting for how they can redo it the following year. Um, I think that's a really inspiring story and it just goes to show that, you know, even when you're not having the best of time on trail, you don't fully appreciate how much you're actually enjoying the experience or appreciating the experience or how much better, even like a not ideal time on trail is relative to. You know, the nine to five type of style life that we live on our day to days. I think it's really interesting that you realize that so quickly. Was there any part of you that wanted to just join back up with your hiking family? Or why did you decide on doing it the following year, as opposed to like, just piecing together what you could with the remaining time in 2017? Um, well, cause like I said, like I got back and I went back to work and I kind of went back to my old life and. Uh, in Portland and it took a couple of months time, like I was starting to like regret it is when people were starting to like, Finish and be almost done. So, I mean like the season was over, you know, unless I, I guess would go back down and go southbound or something, but I just, I dunno, I just, uh, at that point I was like, these like friends are my friends. Um, you know, I'll be friends with them still. So I want to, I want to like get the full experience. That's what I wanted. So that's why I waited until 18 to like start, start over from the beginning. Now let's jump to the 2018 hike. Did you ever experience the same degree of low that you experienced in 2017? Cause you mentioned that having hiker trash Vogue gave you a sense of purpose to actually finish the trail. I'm curious if you went through the same level of hardship during the course of the hike. Um, kind of, so the thing that was. The whole reason I'm here. Yeah. I quit in 17 it's because when I went to rehab, like in 2018 from day one, I was just like, Oh my God, I am so. Happy like I've I had, like, it was just happiness. Like, you guys know this, you guys are hikers. Like it's just happiness. You can never replicate. And I wouldn't, I don't think I would've had that if I hadn't had quit in 17. Cause I just knew so badly that I wanted to just be back there. And in starting at the Terminus again, I was like, okay, just get to camp tonight. It wasn't like, okay, like, let's go to Canada. It was like, Let's get to camp and let's just enjoy every fucking day that you can. And hopefully, you know, by the grace of God, you can make it up there. But I really wasn't. I really never thought about Canada until I like got to bridge of the gods. Like I was just like having so much fun, but sorry to answer your question too much detail. Um, uh, do you. Do you like my really low point within the Sierra? I was, I was alone for a lot of it. It seemed like, um, and it was, it's just a really hard section and I really didn't see like a lot of other hikers in the Sierra. I just saw a lot of like CMT hikers, which, you know, the majority of them are going the opposite way. So you're just like, Hey, what's up? Um, so I was really low in this year, but then like, I think it was maybe two Walla me or somewhere around there. I that's what I like. Met up with all these, like all my friends that have hiking, like maybe 400 miles with not with like, you know, probably my most significant group of people I hiked with. Um, but even in the Sierra, when I was at that really low point and like super lonely, I would still like enjoying it. You know, like, cause I, cause I just kept reminding myself. I'm like, okay, you're having a hard time. Where else do you want to be right now? Do you want to use this money? Like go on vacation. You want to go to Italy? What do you want to do? And the answer was always like, no, I want to be right here where I am right now. So even in the low point I knew I wanted to be there and it just felt, it felt right. Even though like I was having a hard time. Yeah, I think that's like super relatable. Cause I, I felt like those exact feelings when I was on the at T cause I had, I had done the PCT in 2017. I didn't think I wanted to do the 80 at all. Like I remember there was like, you could pull clips from this podcast where I'm like, I have no fucking interest in that trail at all. And like, and then I worked a year and a half at a desk job that I hated. Like I did not enjoy it. I sat through 2018 watched everyone that I was on trail with in 2017, or at least it felt like everyone posting photos with them starting a trail again. And it was like, I could do it. Elliot was starting a ball flap was starting the PC or the 80 that year. And like every day it was like, you put in your two weeks notice. Now it's not too late for you to start. And like, we just kept, like, I kept sitting there and like I was, I think we talked about this, how I would like play on like those lunchtime cries, where I would just like, be sad about my job. But then like in 2019, when I finally took the, you know, I left my job and I went to do the 80, it was like a cold snap below zero degrees at night in Georgia, it was snowing. Like people were quitting cause it was so cold and they were miserable. And I was like, all smiles. I was just like, happy to be there. You know? Cause I knew that I could be at home and I could be like watching other people do it. And you know, a bad day out there is a great day at home. So it's just like, I completely understand. Yeah. Having that year off, like you just make you like having the time off makes you appreciate it so much more. Yeah. I was like worried too though. And I'd get back from the aid too. It'd be the same way this year. And like, Not luckily, but the everything with COVID. I didn't have to get that FOMO again, watching everyone to part on a new trail. Luckily there was a parent. Thank God for that. No, I don't mean it that way, but I like, I didn't get that spring. Like you get like a reoccurrence of the posterial depression. I feel like in spring. Oh, absolutely. Like I like. Last year. I was like dreading through hiker season to start. Cause I'm like, Hey, here we go. This is the first year out. Like having to watch everyone else hike. And it was, it is hard. Like, but then it's cool. Cause it is kind of cool at the Instagram thing. Like watching all these people you're like, you don't know, but like seeing them finish, no, like here's another person you got to like experience something so fucking magical, you know, like if you like can't help it, like feel happy for people. Yeah. Yeah. I mean, it's, it's definitely something super cool. And it's awesome that you got to be able to get up there and do it again. Yeah, I know. I want to go again, but I mean, we'll see, I'm not gonna make any plans the same trail. If you say T again. Uh, I kind of want to southbound it before I think about other trails. Everyone's like, why don't you just do a different trail? I'm like, I fucking love the PCT. So let me South on it. And then I'll think about other things I haven't, I have not hiked the PCT northbound obviously, but I would venture to guess that doing it's outbound is basically doing a different trail because everyone I've talked to that. That's gone northbound and hiked through Washington, like without fail, they've had terrible weather throughout Washington. And I think we had maybe six hours of rain throughout the entire time, going through Washington southbound doing and the weather in the Sierra was perfect. We had no mosquitoes in Oregon. Um, I think the trade off in the area where people generally love the trail where, uh, I didn't particularly love this stretch nor did my hiking partner was the desert. You know, at that point for us, we were. We had just come out of this year, the most beautiful stretch of the trail, kind of getting to that point where we're ready to be done. Java had already done the desert, I think two or three times prior. So we were both kind of, you know, we didn't hate it, but it's certainly, if I had to rank the sections of the trail, it was my last, my least favorite. Um, so yeah, I think outbounding is a totally different experience. And I think just getting that. Good weather version of Washington is worth the price of admission. If nothing else, just Washington southbound and just do the state southbound in the state of, or in the month of July, we have to be had great weather finishing, and I was a late finisher. I finished October 5th. Oh, yeah. All my friends were like finishing like September 7th, December 10th or 15th. And they're like, dude, , you're not going to finish. It's going to get cold. But we had like two weeks of straight on through Washington, like going around, go rock around right here. And then it started to get cold in the North cascades, obviously. But like, we didn't have a shit ton of rain. There was just one night where we were in a blizzard and it was like below 15 degrees and. I was laying in my tent being like you fucking idiot. You took 39, zero days. You could have been done with it. You wouldn't be here right now. I just like kicking myself. And then at one point I was like, damn, I hope I just die tonight. So I don't have to hike tomorrow on the snow. The part of you that was like looming dread for the winter coming in Washington after seeing like the heavy snow year in 2017 and flipping around the Sierra. Cause I feel like part of me is always like. I like a little apprehensive whenever there's snow, because of that. Yeah. I, you know, I wasn't, Washington was really hard for me cause like, I, this is how I explained this. It's like, you know, when you, you know, when you have to take a shit really bad and you're like on your way home and like the closer you get to home to like more, you have to go yes. Coming down, Whitney. Okay, good. I was like, maybe that's so. Uh, I kind of related to that where like you get to Washington, you, you know, you're almost done. My body was just like breaking down. Like I felt like my legs were just gonna fucking snap in half, any day. So I was like, not really worried about whether I'm just worried that if my body was going to hold up for me to make it to the end. Yeah. Yeah, that makes sense. By the way, I felt like every day, like it was great and I was having a great time, but like the days are shorter. I'm not a super fast hiker. It's also a hard section. So it was like getting the camp past dark some of the time, which I really hate doing, but yeah, I'm glad you bring up that analogy, which I love by the way. This hits so close to home. It's happened to me maybe a month ago. Oh, that gets the Sarah Shera poop story. Here's my proof. He is smiling ear to ear as he is. It's so exciting because I honestly, this would have been out of my memory forever. Had to work, not just, and he liked fixed his pocket posture and his like bouncing. I'm old. I might shit myself. I'm so excited. You don't regret it. Uh, every morning I take my dog on about a two mile walk. Uh, one particular morning. I felt a little grumble in my stomach before I left, but I'm like, whatever, I'll just deal with this. When I get back, I got no more than three quarters of a mile from my house and the urge like struck suddenly. And I knew I didn't have a mile of walking in me and there's no bathroom between where I was going and my house. So I literally. Called my wife to come pick me up halfway between the point where I was in our home. And she drove me like three minutes back to the house being like, how old are you? Uh, yeah, and like legitimately I had to get out of the car as the garage door was opening and like scurry upstairs, it was a really bad situation. It was almost, it was terrible. It was really good. Um, I do, I want to get. Into the hiker trash Vogue thing. But since we're on the subject of poop, this is a very poop is choosing this hiker trash books. Yeah. I'm just dangling, dangling it for people. But yeah, I think this is a weird segue, but speaking of anger, trash Vogue, this one time at poop. So just generally, do you have any standout proof stories? It's been a minute since we've had one, you know, 18 did. I did pretty, pretty damn good. Uh, but. In 17, actually, the only time I ever shipped my pants while hiking was not even on trail, I was, uh, into Hatchapee and sharing a bed with my friend, Kathleen and woke up middle of the night. And, uh, I was also very sick after this. I think I had maybe gotten noro, probably got Nora, but I woke up at like three in the morning and like, shit, the bed and let's I was wearing my shorts. I like got new shorts. That's like the liner in them. So wait, there was definitely. Was this like a friend or was this like a, you know, a friend? Like what kind of stuff? Oh no, this is my, this is my friend, Kathleen, who I started the trail with. She started with me and Andrew. You want to know like what level of embarrassing this was going to be? Oh yeah, dude. If it was, uh, I would, I, you know, I wouldn't talk about it again. Um, uh, yeah, so I, I had to get up and like, I like got to the shower. I was not feeling well. And I like had to wash my shorts in the shower. Uh, and I was like, you know, lightly crying in the shower and I like come out and they like put the towel over the stain on the bed and in the morning, and in the morning I wake up and she's just like, why are you. So close to me and I'm like, Oh, sorry, mr. Rollover. I would have never told her this story. She doesn't know. No, I need to tell her, I might wait. Maybe I'll wait until like her birthday or something like that. Yeah. Or you could just send her this episode is for you in here. Yeah. It shouldn't be mad. It's just so long ago that like, I just. There's never been a good time. And now I'd kind of want to wait for the right time. It's like her wedding. Um, there, this reminds me of a good call back. So my friend came on and she told the story about her shitting. No, actually she didn't shit. Her friend. What was the story? She sinks shitter. This really was clogged and she took the. The toilet, the poop out of the toilet with a giant spoon and put it in the sink to try to unclog the toilet. And people walked in on her, like started calling her sink and she told this whole story about it on a past episode. And it was fantastic, but she was like, I want to stay anonymous. She told me that some guy from her job. Came up to her and he was like, I know your sink shitter. He was like, I listened to that podcast. I know, it's you. I heard your voice. I know. It's you? She does a very distinct, she was like, I looked at him and I was like, tell no one. Oh my God, that literally was just making me gag. I can't handle that. What was it? She was like, She has like transferring the shit from the toilet to the sink with a Spooner. Yeah. There was like a large spoon that like moves like the water into the sauna on the rocks. And then it was too clog to be unclogged. So she had to like, that's our next, that's our next t-shirt to clog to be unplugged. All right. Let's put this back on the rails. Let's talk about hiker trash Bogues so were waiting so long. Well, actually, let's start with your background as a photographer, because I know you were a blogger for the Trek in 17. I want to say, uh, it was readily apparent even then that obviously you were a phenomenally talented photographer. So give us a rundown on your background in photography prior to backpacking. Uh, it's not that I didn't, my dad just gave me his camera when I hit I 12. And so I shot film for like six weeks, seven years. And then, yeah, I made, as soon as I picked up the camera, I never stopped. So that's kind of, yeah, that's my background. I just, like, I just knew as soon as I picked up a camera, I just, like, I knew I wanted to be a photographer. Interesting. So trance is a pretty solid photographer. I am terrible. So you're going to have to speak to the lowest common denominator here. Do you think that starting with film photography for any reason is like a good white belt? Is that a good intro? Would you recommend someone who wants to get into photography start with film or is that just totally irrelevant? Um, I mean, if they want, I mean, like, I, you know, Because I learned that film. Like, I don't feel bad shooting digital, cause like I know how, like I do all my settings manually. Like I know how to do that. And I, I still shoot film for like personal stuff obviously. But, um, I don't know, like, I mean it's cheaper to do digital, but films really fun. Like I like kind of the genuine quality of it, you know, knowing that like, okay, I'm not going to take. 50 shots of the same thing when I own, you know, I only have 24 exposures in a role. So I mean, I think film's really fun. Um, and yeah, it's just, uh, so I, it just depends on, I guess, what kind of work people are wanting to produce. Okay. So now tell us about how did photography play into your 2017 night? Uh, not really. I mean, I brought my camera and I took portraits of people, but it was just. I dunno, I, I, in 17, like, I, I felt like I wanted to do something bigger than just like, Hey, just take photos of people and whatever. And so, um, I think maybe that was like a little bit of reason. I was disheartened with my like 2017 hike. I was like, Oh, I came out here and like, I'm hiking, but I'm like, you know, I'm not really like doing anything with my work that feels worthwhile to me at least. Um, So I think that was a part of the reason I quit as well. And then I am 18. I didn't start hiker trash bulb until like Wrightwood that's when I like got the inspiration to do it. Um, but at that point I was just having so much fun being back on trail that I wasn't even thinking about the photography aspect, which was really nice. It was nice to know like, Oh, I actually really love backpacking. Do you think that part of it had to do with the fact that you learned how to long distance hike? The first time. And then once you knew kind of what it took to pull a big mile day or to, you know, get to camp on time or to take breaks when you should, and not, when you shouldn't like that helped give you the free time to focus on that. When you, you know, the first time around you were just focusing on how do I do this and get to camp the next day and or at the end at night, and then hike again the next day. Yeah. You know, I've never even thought about that then. I absolutely like that. I think that's exactly right. That was, you know, it's, like I said, I mean, I did maybe like two or three 20 mile days in 2017 and I thought that was, I thought that was like endless for me. I was just like, Holy, okay. It's a long. But then when I came back in 2018, like my first day I did 20 miles to the Marina. Oh, that's kind of weird. Cause I got, I got to like, how's your Creek super fast. Like at like one 30 or two o'clock and I was like, Oh, that's that's what, 15 miles. And I was like, Oh, that's kinda weird. I was like, I feel really good still. And I don't like camp down here with like 30 people. It's the small area. So I started the hike up to, uh, Lake Morena and I got there. I was like, that's kind of weird. And then the next day I did the whatever 22 miles to, um, Mount Laguna. And I'm like, this is I'm done. I'm like, this has gotta be a fluke. So I just like one more 20 mile day after that, then I got to Julian and then I was like, I'm going to slow it down. So I did like. One like 15 mile day. I was like, okay, now I'm bored. So like, I guess I can do this. So it was kind of, kind of weird. I was able to do it right off the bat. Whereas the first year it was like dying. Just doing like 12 miles. Yeah. I remember like in the desert, I like, I remember I was going down to Cabazon that 19 mile downhill. And on that 90 mile downhill, I had done my first five miles consecutive without stopping. And I told the girls making with, like, I was like, I was amazed, blown away. I was like, I just did five miles without stopping for a break. And she was like, yeah, like that's like normal. And I was like, Oh my God, like that is not normal at all. And I think like the second round. Yeah. The second time around when you're not like, when you know how to like pace out your breaks, like the mileage feels familiar and you're not, it doesn't seem as well. Like you get places faster and you have more free time to swim in the lakes or do photography or pursue like something that you're passionate about. Whereas the first time you're just trying to make it through the day. Totally. Yeah. And like, it, it, it became so fun to like, it, people always ask me like, Oh, did it ever feel like work? And it was like, no, like it, I was doing, I was taking two things and like combining them, and then also like sharing my art with people I love by including them in my art. So, I mean, it was, it was a dream come true for me. Like, I felt like. I think for me, it was like the most meaningful work I've ever done because it was meaningful to me. And it was just a bonus that people liked it and in thought, but for me, I would have done it regardless. How are you editing your photos on trail? Are you using like polar or like we're using Photoshop on your phone? Um, I actually did everything on my phone and I used, um, Vesco and. There's another like Japanese app I had found, and it kind of adds that like grainy texture, um, called Calla, C a L L a. Those are the only two apps I use. Like, I didn't even like discover the Lightroom app until I finished the trail. I'm like, Oh, this would have been like, A lot nicer, but yeah, let's take a step back for a second and define what, what is hiker trash vote? Cause I think people who are the people who obviously follow you on Instagram, who, or who have seen your stuff, know the answer to this question, but assume that you're speaking to someone that has no clue what this is. Yeah. It's um, I explain it as an editorial style photography project that revolt that, you know, basically. It's making dirty new hikers, um, pretend like they're high fashion model. Yeah. And torque's not allowed to be, uh, braggadocious about his own work, but it's so good. It's so good. Not only the quality of the photography, but the things that you're able to get people to do that is the most fascinating aspect to get them to sit, still sit, still dump milk on their face. Like, so walk us, walk us through some of your favorite poses. One of my favorite photos eat. Like he poses like, yeah, that was good. Yeah. Whatever you're having your photography victims do for the shots. I mean the milk one yeah. Stands out to me too, just cause it's so fucking funny, but uh, I don't know, like I have different favorite photos for different reasons, you know? Like. Some of them, like, you know, that other people might not like, I really loved because I know whether I know that person, right. Like there's a story behind it. You know, something funny happened that day. Also like a lot, like, what I love about a lot of my work is I don't let, usually people smile, uh, But it's always funny because there's so many outtakes of people laughing and just like, I should post the outtakes too with them too. Cause it's like, it's really funny. Cause we get like one shot, but then it's them just being like awkward or goofy or like there's so many people that like, like you say, don't smile and what do they do? They start laughing and then, and then I get past them. Listen, you have to listen. So we can get the shot you're on a schedule. So you mentioned that a lot of your favorite photos might be ones that other people might not pick. Cause there's like funny stories or things attached to them. What are some stories you could tell us behind the photos that people might not know about? Um, what's one that stands out like my profile photo. I mean, I think everyone knows, like, if you follow me, like I got done by a wasp on my. Uh, I don't know, eyebrow. Um, and it's funny because we were just about to cross bridge of the gods. Like we were, I'm not even kidding you, 10 feet from bridge of the gods and all these loss start going everywhere. And I get stung on my eyebrow and we start crossing and like the three guys I'm hiking with, they're like having their, like, you know, Bridge of the gods moment. They're fucking like Reese would have been MoMA and I'm N and I'm hiking behind them holding my face, being like, fuck motherfucker, are you fucking kidding me? I'm like, I'm livid. Like, I don't even remember cause crossing the bridge. Cause I was just like, what the hell? Um, and then the next morning I woke up and I like asked my, my, the friend I was hiking with. It was like, Hey, is this something wrong with my face? He was like, Holy shit. The perks of known the Arizona trail. Yeah. Yeah, what's funny is that later that day, I was like, damn to see so many people a day. Like, and there's this like older Asian man. Yeah. Who was kind of hiking around us. Um, he, I don't think he really took zero. We'd take a zero and we'd pass them again. So I saw him, probably passed them like five or six times. And that morning I saw him again. Cause they recognize this walk and his like his little backpack and his hat he would wear. And, um, And I think it was hard of hearing. Cause like there was one time where he like, couldn't hear me move. So I'd be like, Hey, good morning. You know, somebody was like, I could like pass them. And so I was coming up behind him and says, hi, good morning. And he goes to turn around and he goes, Oh, he said he is, but I think it was my faith. And it was really funny. That is when I, I want to talk about. How are you getting people to do this? So people, again, who are not familiar with the hiking Instagram community, this became a really big thing, but obviously I had to start somewhere. So at some point early on in the process, Before anyone knew what the hell hiker treasure Vogue was. You had to convince them to dump milk on their face. Let's. Can we talk about kind of the evolution from the first people that you started to do for their portraits and then how that progressed? I'm imagining yet people coming up to you like. Begging you asking you to do this by the end of the hike. Okay. We take a step further back. Do you have any experience like shooting editorial photography or like high fashion photography? Or was this just something that you were like, I've seen magazines. I can make them post, like, how did you even know what to do? Great. Uh, so I, so I w did a stint of college. Um, I did a year and a half of that in San Francisco at the Academy of art. And I actually was going to double major in like fashion, just cause I wanted, like, since I was a kid, I was like, I'm going to be a fashion photographer. Like that's what I want to do. And then working with the fashion kids, I was like, I do not want to be a fashion photographer cause I do people. But so like, I've always, I love like I have. That's about fashion photography still. I just like, I love how like outrageous and like ridiculous it is. Um, and. I, so, yeah, I still I've. I feel like my work is, Oh, it's been a little bit like editorial also. I really like concept art where I kind of like create stories with an image. Um, so I like, that's my like hiker trash Vogue is my style. Like that's like, if you look at my other work, it's my style. Just like with hikers and in the outdoors. Makes sense. Uh, okay. Now back to back, back to the question of like, was it difficult to get people that are not models who are maybe even insecure about the way that they look bruises from the hip belt or change? Yeah. And obviously the ladies are not wearing makeup. Everyone looks like trash. Maybe that's an overstatement, but like, I didn't really everyone's dirty as fuck. Yeah. Like I can't tell you how many. Like girls, I would photograph and be like, okay, my hair is a mess. Right. And I'm like, yeah, that's the fucking point. But it's so funny. Cause you look at these pictures and I'm maybe just, cause I know most of these people and I with them and like, but I mean, you look at all these people and they look fucking gorgeous, but also like everyone on trail looks great because what are we doing? We're like, we're not going to work. Like we're not stressed about anything. We're literally just like. Do you want, like, you know, doing something for ourselves, that's just like, amazing. So it's like, how do you expect people not to look good when they're like the happiest I've ever been? I heard a joke in the beginning of the PCT from another hiker that was. Uh, it went, how do you, or wire through hikers? All so attractive. And the answer was because they walk the ugly off in the first hundred miles. And like in the first few hundred miles, like I, part of it like meant like, you know, like we're getting like muscular and in shape and everything, but I think it's also like, people just become happier. Like they become happier, like people that are just, yeah, the little moment the life comes back to their eyes. You can see it. Yeah. Well, and yeah. And here's the thing with, yeah. Kind of like going off, what you just said is. Like what, how do like happy? What do happy people exude exude confidence and nothing is sexier than someone who's confident. Like, I don't care how big or small or muscular or like, whatever you are, like, confidence is hot. And like when you're out there, how can you not. Feel good about yourself, despite the fact that we're like on showered and dirty, but here's the thing all of us are. So what are you saying to people early on to get them to do these crazy things? Yeah. What's your pitch? Um, so, well, when it started, we were in Wrightwood and I was sharing, um, I had gotten a house with. Like, uh, eight other people that had been hiking around and we were just like taking a day off and it was like, Oh, let's all, let's have a hiker photo shoot piece of gear and, well, it's like you stupid poses. Don't be really funny. And I posted it and then like all these like companies and people started sharing it and stuff. I was like, Oh, okay, well maybe this is my like, uh, I mean, this is like my project thing. So I just kept doing it every time. I'd like get to a town or like, like a place on trail boards. There was a lot of hikers. So it's, I feel like it started pretty like, you know, pretty lighthearted and then. As I went on, I just, you know, I'd get more and more creative and I try to add more prompts or just like, be as outrageous as I could. But the end of the trail, literally people were just like throwing themselves out. Maybe like, I'll do anything. Like what should I do? Like I'll get naked and I'll pour milk on my leg. You know, I'll ride this bear. Like, I don't know, like people were just like willing to do anything. I was going to say where people kind of like seeking you out, like where you just like filling up water at a stream and people go, Oh my God, it's twerk. Take a photo of me. Here's my tits. You know? Sorry. I mean, I think people, like, I definitely feel like there was moments there where people would just like, see me and they would, I feel like maybe they were like, Wanting to say something. I actually had a few insistence where like, people would write me later. They're like, Oh, I like saw you at camp or saw you it something, but I didn't want to like, bother you. I'm like, why are you bothering me? I'm just another hiker. You know, it's always weird when they, when they tell you after. And you're like, dude, just say something it's weird. They knew the whole time. And didn't say anything. Yeah. But there would be people who'd be like, Oh, can you, can you like take a photo of me? And I was like, well, you can't, I. I mean, it doesn't bother me that much. Like people ask, but if I'm like, sometimes I didn't want to take a photo, like all the time, you know, like I have to do it, like when I took photos because I felt inspired and I saw something or I saw someone and then I wanted to create something. I can't just, you know, it's just not like, Hey, like write a song or, Hey, do this thing. That's creative. Like. Right. Like, you gotta like, like what go stand by that tree. You know, how, how hard is it to think of an entire setup for a photo on the spot? Yeah, I mean, it's, I mean, it's not that hard to just like take a photo, obviously. But like when I take a photo, I want it to be like, I want it to be genuine. I don't want to do it. Cause I have to, you know, I want to do it cause I want to. Um, and so, I mean, Sometimes I would just be like, Hey, here's the picture? And then whatever. But yeah, most of the times it's like, I would just like be stopping people on tour. I'll be like, Hey, I have this idea. You're going to do this right now. And they're like, Oh, okay. I'm curious. Did you do any landscape photography along the way or was it purely just these hiker trash broke photos? Uh, on my phone. It's funny though. I can't tell you, like, I could go through my pictures on my phone from like, PCT like landscaped. And like, I couldn't tell you where like any of them were. Yeah. Like, it'd be like, Oh, that looks familiar, but I haven't no idea where it was. I can go through all my PCP photos and tell you exactly the mile marker like exactly where, where, what happened that day. If I look, I don't know, I just associate people with memories and memories. Yeah, for sure. I remember hearing that early on in the eighties, and I even did a bad job with this after receiving this very Sage advice. But, you know, everyone wants to take the same picture of the same Ridge or the same sunset or yada yada yada, and like, you know, there's people out there with $3,000 cameras that are going to do a million times better job than you are. Take pictures of the people around you. Those are the things that you're going to remember. Those are the things you're going to miss the most. And I think at least I'm I'm victim of this. I am constantly taking pictures of the landscapes terribly and not enough photos of my fellow hikers. Yeah. Sometimes like, I feel awkward asking for people that'll give me a hitch or let me stay or whatever. Like, I'll feel awkward asking them, Hey, can we take a picture before I leave? But then like, those are the ones I look back on it. I'm like, Oh my God. And this was this family I stayed with, or this was this guy. They gave us this hitch that had this crazy story. And there's just so many more memories attached with it that a picture of a mountain has. Yeah, totally. I know. That's one thing I wish I would have done is take more pictures of like trail angels and like people I met that like weren't hiking, but I don't know. I just felt like it was just really like. Personal thing that I didn't want to like bother someone that already did something nice for me by being like, can I take here pose? You know, like I would've done more. Like, can I just take a picture of you? You don't have to do anything just like a snapshot, but I think I was just like more in my head, but like, if I'm going to take a picture, I'm going to have you do something crazy. You know, we can go big here. So, so hiker, trash Vogue means a lot of things. It started out as a concept. Through your Instagram photography, and then it evolved into a bigger project. Can you talk us through that? Um, which bro, what do you mean? Didn't you make a wasn't there, wasn't there a book? Oh, yeah. Yeah. I did two books. Sorry. I was like, I mean, that was the, yeah. Yeah. So at what point did you decide that the series was going to be made into a book and talk us through the logistics on that? Because I I've self published to self published, but the prospect of self publishing. Yeah, that sounds is it a hardcover? Yeah, they're both hard covers. Um, and I knew I was going to. Pretty much what I got to like nor Cal, I was like, okay, like done more than half the trail. Like if I finished. I'm going to like, make a book of this, but I was like, I was like, I'm not going to do a book if I don't finish. Like, I just felt like I had to finish. We're just stupid, you know? But like, for me, I just felt like I had to complete this to make the book you'll complete. Cause it won't feel complete to me. Um, if I don't like make it to Canada, um, which I did, no, it was like, like ridiculous. Um, but. It's in my head. That's how I felt. But so in nor Cal, I was already like, kind of making layouts in my head and like writing down, like things. I want to remember when I was done and off trail. And then like, literally like two weeks after I got up Charles, they came, no, sir. It's time to start designing, start writing. Um, getting other hikers to write. Yeah, it was a big project. Like it was. Um, it was actually like quite stressful. Like by the time I decided to do the second book and started design it, I'm like, Holy shit. I did not, I should have not signed up to do the second one. Cause like it's a lot of, it really is a lot of work and I, it was just, it was very stressful and the first one was so fun. Cause I was like, cool. I can dig like good to all my photos and like. I was like way more inspired. And then the second one made it feel like work. So at least that that's enough. Like, I should only do things. Like if I feel like it's good creative outlet, not like I'm forced to do it. Did you make it on InDesign or did you use like one of those photo bookmakers online? Um, Shutterfly, I think is what I'm thinking of. I used to make camp books for the, for the campers, with Shutterfly. Designed the entire thing via Photoshop. Oh wow. You did like spread my spread on Photoshop, everything I've tried in design. And I was like, I don't have time to learn this. Oh my God. We should have, we should have talked. Yeah. I know. All of my friends who are designers are like you did on Photoshop. What the hell? And I was like, I don't know. I was just like, I didn't want to learn something else new to like finish the thing. But I think I do have InDesign and I do want to learn it cause like, I probably will do some other sort of book. Well, if you ever want to like FaceTime for like 30 minutes, I could teach you the whole thing. I made our high school year book in it. And then that's what I made hiking from home on. Um, it's so simple. It's just, you just gotta know what buttons to click. Yeah. That's what my friends, all my friends who were like designers said, and I was like, okay, well I'll learn it for next time. Yeah. Well I'll, I'll show you. We'll play it on time. So I'm curious, what is the cost of making one of these giant photo color, rich books that, that can't be cheap. Yeah. Um, the first one I made, which was 11, um, 11 or eight and a half by 11 hot each book cost me like $82. Cause it was like, It was also like almost 300 pages. And I went with like the highest quality color, highest quality, uh, paper, you know? Cause I was like, you know what? I'm not like I'm not doing this to make money. I'm just doing it because I want people to like have my work. So if people want to pay for it, they'll pay it. So what were you selling them for? That makes sense. Which, which like, sounds like a lot, but. I the way I explain it is like I spent $8,500 on the PCP like that, like the work I produce, like it's not like me just like, Oh, I was like bought a camera and I'm going to be a photographer. It's like this, like there's at that point with 18 years of experience behind it, you know, there like so many years of like mastering my craft. And if you think about it, you sell a PR one print to someone like. Sometimes that's like two, $300, depending on how big. Yeah, so like getting a book of like all the work I, I had to like. Talk myself into it though. Cause I was ready to just be like, you know what, I'm just going to do, like everything cheap that people just have it. And I was like, you know what? I want people to like actually want my work. I feel like that's like the point of a coffee shop book though. Or I'm not a coffee, a coffee table book. Like one of those where you just flip through the pages, it's like, it's going to be expensive, but you're going to put it there and it's going to be enjoyable. The flip through, I think scout talked about it when he was talking about is Pacific crest trail book. Um, Not the one that he just put out in the last episode, but the actual photo album he talked about in the first episode, they were, yeah. Like the printing fees can be outrageous. Yeah. It's pretty crazy. But like, I mean, you pay for quality and like, I wasn't gonna, I wasn't gonna have that thing. Like send people from like bullshit book, you know? Did you notice any. Negative impacts to the quality of the second book, because it wasn't as much of a passion project. Um, no, actually I, you know, what's funny though, is like, when I was sending out, I was like, God, I hope people don't hate this because like, for, in my mind I was like, I mean, I still spent the same amount of time working on that. On the second one I spent almost, you know, almost six months redoing it and changing it. So it was different from the other one. And, um, But I was nervous that people were going to get it and be like, Oh, this cause a lot of there's a lot of people that bought the second one too, that had bought my first one. So I was like, Oh, I've got so worried that people are gonna like, hate the second one. And like, I dunno, but no, everyone, I loved it. And a lot, I think a lot of people appreciated that. I made it smaller and cheaper too, because I had so many people reached out. Like I really want to buy it, but like, I can't afford it. And I still, that they'd be like, well here, like, I'll give you like. I'll send you like a discount code you can use if you do want to buy it. So what's the difference between the first book and the second book? Like what's the first book of what's the second book. First book is from my, my I'll just photos from my through hike. And then the second one I did was, um, I did a lot of trail magic last year on the PCT. So it was a lot of the photos I took in trail magic. So it's like a combination of. Um, 2018 and 2019, I added some like more stories. And then, um, I just doubt, I like did less pages and made it smaller. So that way it was more affordable for people. Cause a lot of people have been asking like, well you used to make, you know, make one that's cheaper. So it was kind of just like, yeah, how much is the second one? Uh, I was selling it for 60, cause it's still cost me like 40 something dollars to make. Okay. Do you do limited runs these books or is it something that you're constantly buying more inventory for? Like one by either of your first books or first depots? Well, I've been asking again, like, I mean, I sold out of them maybe like. I don't know, four months ago. Um, but then just recently people started asking about it again. So, uh, I might put in another order, maybe I'll just like revamp the second one and like add new stuff to it. I haven't decided yet. It's just, it's a lot of work and I want, I want to do other projects. Yes. Is it something that you'd ever put on Amazon? Like, is it something that you'd ever do like a pretend to be in service with that would distribute through Amazon? Yeah, so here's like, my thing is like, I. I kind of like, you know, I want to like start small and see how it goes first and be like, Hey, I'm going to go on Amazon. I'm going to sell a bunch of these. Cause I just don't. I just didn't think it was okay. I actually sold way more than I thought, obviously like, not obviously, but you know, like I was very stunned. I was like, Oh shit, like, okay, this is going to be a lot of work to ship these up by myself, which I signed up to do. But, uh, Yeah, I think, you know, maybe if I like do the 80 and then do the CDT and I released like, you know, like triple crown Vogue or whatever you call it, um, then maybe, you know, I, once I have a little bit more of a, of a reputation, I guess, and maybe I'd sell them, but I don't know for me, it's never about money. It's just like, I just want people don't like want to have it. That's why I don't want to skimp on the quality. I just. Want people to know, like I really put my heart and soul into my work and I hope that like shows in the book that they have. So what is your day to day now? Not a lot of chilling. Camping. Are you doing freelance? Photog? Yeah. I want you to come here and take photos of us for backpacker radius. Okay. Let's do that. Well, no, they don't be naked ones. I just want like some promo photos, like exactly. Like we could do something fun like that. Get your mind out of the gutter. I'm not really what I have nothing going on right now. If you get in the car right now, we'll see you tomorrow. Let's just make that drive. Yeah, it's true. If I, if I could do it, you can do not that far of a drive 15 hours. How long ago? Probably 12 to 15 from bed. Oh, you're in bed maybe 15 to 17. Yeah, just a day. So we'll see you at lunch tomorrow. I'll bring the milk. It's a 25 mile hike in time. There you go. Measuring time. Non-tradition there you go. Uh, right. Do you have people hitting you up to do freelance photography work after running into your hiker trash folk series? Yeah, I mean, I've done. Um, I mean, in my book, I sold actually ads to a bunch of companies. Like I there's, cause I, I designed the book to look like a mock magazine, so I put their fake ads in there and then the fake ads are like, from like the town that'll be like, I don't know, to have to pee. And I'll be a picture from Tallahassee, but I'll look like a, like an ad with like a hiker, you know, like modeling. Uh, but then I sold. Uh, advertisement to a different, you know, um, outdoor companies be like, Hey, do you want to add in this book, which is kind of unorthodox, but I'm like, this is going to be sitting on people's tables. Like hopefully forever. Yeah. So it's like, you pay a bunch of money for a magazine and then people throw it away the next day. Yeah. Right, right. Do you get people hitting up to do weddings? Yeah, I do actually just got back from Michigan. Um, I just did. Uh, so Travis Avery, he's the marketing director for Sawyer. I just did. That's awesome. That, yeah. Travis is the man. Have you connected with whom at all? Nathan Bowman. Yeah, I was just hanging out with him in Michigan with blue blue parents of Luddington. So when I was there. She came in a pick me up and we hung out and it was his birthday and yeah, he's a good friend of mine. Yeah. We're both on wedding vetting. Like he got me on this wedding vending page in Colorado. Cause I do videography and he does the photography. So like, Oh yeah, it's funny. Cause I'll see him first on there and then I'll post on there. As someone. Yeah, he's got beautiful wedding work. Oh yeah. One who's been married. I know that the wedding photography thing is very expensive and we got a good deal. Quote, unquote is from the photographer standpoint, is this a highly coveted job because it's expensive or is it a nightmare because he know that you could potentially be dealing with a bride Zilla. I did one wedding. I'm sorry, you're asking Corey. I didn't want wedding. And I got too much anxiety. I can't do another photography. Videography. You can edit out errors, photography thinking what happens if it's blurry on the kiss? Like I could not handle the anxiety that day, but it's work. That, that question was actually for you. It was just tilt it towards me while he was saying it. Yeah, no, I mean, it's, uh, it, it used to be stressful, but I've done so many now. Like it's just. And also like people, like, since my height, people that reach out to me, like re they want me, because my work, like they know my work, so it's not like, Oh, well, I'm going to send you a big ass Pinterest board. And, you know, here's like all the shots we want people I, people now are just like, cool. Yeah. Just show up, like you do it, how you do it. And which is awesome. So then like now people are paying you what I want to be paid. And they're like, letting me have free reign like creatively. So I actually really quite enjoying weddings now. And I feel like super confident when I send the photos. And like, I'm like, these people are going to love these and that's a really good feeling. Cause before I would have a lot of, like you said, John's like a lot of anxiety around it. Even like, even if the photos are great, I'm like, God, what if like, For some reason they hate them or they don't like the style, like, yeah. But let's do make that quick. If someone listening wants the hiker trash Vogue treatment for their wedding, where should they reach out to? Uh, Oh, you can go to my website and all my information's on there. It's just Tommy corey.com. Cool. Um, I think I had one more wedding question, but Oh yeah. So is. The milk thing. Is that like your Freebird, like when you're doing photo shoots, do people like, all right now, when do we get to dump milk on each other? I haven't, I've only done it that one time. It'll be twice when you get to Denver, it'd be cool. If that became your thing where like people are begging, I'm going to stand on the table and don't, Millicom Zack. We're going to practice tonight, actually. Okay. Yeah. Like punch it's red. We're red. I'm going to the store right now. Yeah. Maybe I'll get people on different food all the time. That'd be fun. You should do the food that you associate with them. I don't want to know. Will you be like ginger beer or something? I don't know. I dunno what food I would be. Juliana carrots. I'd like to think like sour, gummy worms, but Julianne carrots are also a close second, I guess. Um, okay. I have a question. Um, we can edit this out if you're not comfortable talking about it, but I was wondering if you could speak to what it's like being a gay hiker. Yeah. I mean, that's totally up to you. Yeah, no, of course. Um, you know, this is it's. Honestly, it's hard for me to say what it's actually like to be a gay hiker because people know me now. And I feel like when I hiked in 18 people knew me. So like, there was almost this kind of like, I don't know if the privilege is the right word or just maybe a favor over my hike because people knew who I was. So, um, I mean, I generally, I think people on the trail don't give a fuck, like, you know who you are, but you know, it was really like that episode. You guys I did with, um, gummy bear. I think that out to you when you did that episode, cause I listened to that episode and. It was just, it was really enlightening, even for me as a kid, Hey man, to hear another gay man of experience who is, you know, different from me. And he, like, he had a completely different experience than I did. Um, and that was. Uh, so that was like, even I, like, I learned something from that episode, even being like another gay person. Yeah. It's like, it's hard for me to say, like, I had people reach out me all the time being like, Oh, what, what is it like the gate hiker? Like, I want to like hike too, but I'm like nervous about the small towns. And I dunno, I've been out since I was 16 Kane, like, so I don't know. I don't really think about. The fact that I'm gay, unless I'm like, you know, like having sex with a man when you were listening to, when you were listening to the gummy bear episode, ignore Zach. When you were listening to the game is there any like time during the episode where you thought like, Oh, this part could have been elaborated on or, Oh, like this, like there was something that they didn't touch on. Like, is there anything that didn't get touched on in that episode that you want to share? Um, Oh, from him, like what, uh, just like from your experiences compared to what you heard of his, like, is there anything different that you had or things that he left out that you'd want to include? You mentioned that your experience was totally different. So I'd be curious to touch on what some of those differences might be. Like, variance is different in the fact that I didn't have like an experience of being a gay hiker. Like I never felt at one point I felt scared or uncomfortable. Um, You know, I mean like the small towns can be, I guess, a little bit intimidating. Yeah. You know, uh, uh, a gay person or a trans person, or a person of color could feel really uncomfortable going to some of those small towns. But I don't know. I was always around hikers. I knew and liked. And so for me, I didn't really ever feel like me being gay. Was it like a problem or something that I had to be afraid of? Leading up to your hike in 2017. Was it something that you had any type of concern about? Yeah, actually before, yeah. I was a little nervous, um, going, like gearing up for something. I just didn't know what it, what it was going to be like. You know, I knew it would be like very like straight male dominated, which is fine. Like most of my friends are straight, so it's not that I am like afraid of straight men. It's just. You know, it's just like such a melting pot of different people, of like different backgrounds. You know, it's not like it's not like the Charles like this big liberal bubble, it's not, you know, but, um, I was a little nervous, but then I got out there and just like, start it, you know, it just was myself. And, uh, honestly, like, you know, I mean, I think most people can, um, Can testify to this, uh, like being on the trail, it's like the most yourself you're ever going to be. And it's so rewarding to be around others that are being, you know, that are having the same experience. And then they just like accept you for like all that you are so young, single people that I've talked to about their hacking experience, everyone kind of relays the same thing that they're all horned up. What's the experience. Did you have any. Well, I guess, without revealing too much more detailed than you're comfortable with, but, uh, was it a success from a romantic standpoint for you? So honestly, like while I was out there, I never really, yeah. I never thought about, I also. Eat that many gay men. I did. I don't know. I don't know if you guys want to include not, but it's funny to me. We're including it. Go on. Oh, I like looked up with another hiker and I'm not gonna say names obviously, but I can, I'll tell you guys later off the radar. Um, I, I did hook up with a hiker and Mount Shasta. Um, and then he, the next day. Was like, Oh, so does this mean we have a trail romance? And I'm like, Oh God, you know, like I was like, if lay laid on trail and like, that was not that important to me. Um, so I actually, like, we were in Dunsmere and I was like supposed to take another day off, but I ended up ditching him and hiking 20 miles out into the middle of the night. And then I did like a 36 the next day. And then I got. There you skipped it though. He was there and I'm like, no, I don't have any hookup stories, but this one time I hiked 50 miles to get away from this guy. So do you want like a band or a DJ at her wedding? You found a stage five Clinton of saying this guy's chasing you down, trying to plan your guys' future together. Oh, yeah, that gave me so much anxiety just cause like, I don't know, like I probably could have met the love of my life out there and I wouldn't have known cause I was just on this Epic, like solo journey. And I like, all I could think about was like, you know, doing, taking photos and hanging out with my friends and like that. So like none of that was really important to me, but I could see like why. That's a romantic place to like meet someone like there's so many people I hiked with that like met on trail and like, Built together, which is like really cool. Just like you start off seeing each other at the reversed kind of, you know, like I am at the worst. I will ever look, I am probably going to be in some of the worst moods I'll ever be in. Like, you're going to see me crying at 2:00 PM against the treat. And you're going to ask why not going to know. I will probably shoot myself in front of you. There's going to be so many weird things happening. And if that like is cool with you, then I think real world might be fine too. Oh, absolutely. Yeah. I think that's exactly why if you meet on the trail and you can hike together, like you're probably gonna be really good for each other in real life. So I know you said and love my life. We'll see. Yeah. Backpack back country matchmaking hit up to work. If you think he's the potential love of your life. Um, I know you said you didn't see that met. That many other gay men on trail. Did you see like that many other LGBTQ through hikers? I know it's like, not all the same as like another gay person, but did you see many other people, um, who weren't straight on trail? You know, and that's the thing too. It's like, you can't just like, I mean, I have really bad guitar too, so it's like, I admit that we're gay. Phew. I, so, but I, they didn't really have any conversations with anyone that would like, said they were gay. I only met like a few gay men. I, I mean, I'm sure there were plenty of gay women maybe, but again, knowing that really like at anything and then as for trans people, well, I just, you know, I don't, I don't know. And that anyone that was trans because they never said anything. And also, I just, like, I don't know. I don't, I don't want to assume anything about anyone. Um, I, you know, also look up though for me, it's like, wasn't important. Like, I don't care. You're fucking just here to hike and like make friends. Exactly. I was friends with them. There were two people in our trail group in the desert and it was like a, it was a lesbian couple. It was two girls and they were super cool. Um, they hiked with the dog. They were just like, literally so cool. And we got to hike or town. Um, we had been hiking on and off together for a while. And one of them had told us they came to us at lunch and they were like, Hey, don't act weird. Next time you see, you know, the other person should, they were like, but we got to town and they wanted to transition back to being a guy. Um, so they got a haircut and all this stuff. I remember just sitting there and I was like, I had no idea. I had no idea, you know, cause it's just not something you think about and you're just like really comfortable with it. And like they came back and we were totally fine with that too. And it was just, yeah, no, I, you don't really ask people, but I was just wondering if you had like any type of experience with how many, you know, I don't know, just like what you saw on trail. Yeah, no, I, and I think that's another big reason why I want to hike again too, because I I'm hoping with, you know, the, with like the black lives matter movement and the influx of like, you know, um, Companies actually like paying more attention and hiring people of color. I hope we see like this big influx in diversity on the trail. Um, and I know that probably takes years, but I, I w I just can't, , um, theme that I've heard from my friends of color and other, you know, LGBTQ people is that. A lot of people are afraid to go and HighQ because they're not represented in the media. So it's like, why would I do this thing? If I don't see someone like me? And that was like, My initial fear of through hiking was like, Oh, I don't see a lot of other gay people through hiking. I'll probably be the only one, which is fine. Cause I fucking love hiking now. And like, I would just do it anyway, but I totally get that sentiment of if you're not seeing yourself represented, then you probably feel like it's not for you, which is like not true. So I really want to thanks again and hope for the note to like connect with more people that are. You know, people of color or LGBT and just that are different. Yeah. Did you have any resources that you went to that gave you more information or made you feel like you weren't going to be the only one out there that you think other people could benefit from knowing, you know, no. Like when I hiked, like I just went and like hope for the best. I don't, I think I only met a couple other gay people in 17 as well. Um, and so after experiencing it in 18, I didn't really. I don't know, like I just, um, like I said, I don't, I like kind of mostly my friends are our sisters, so I'm not, I wouldn't really say like, I'm very immersed in like gay culture. So for me, going back in 2018, I was just going back to like, to hike and just be immersed in like trail colors. Sure. Um, so yeah, like I said, like, I feel bad saying that, but I don't have any resources other than like, Following people online who are like LGBTQ hikers or like people of color. Yeah. I mean, I think even just saying it wasn't as big of a deal as you thought it might be, you know, that in itself could be helpful. Yeah, absolutely. But this is what I do. Tell people that reach out to me, as I say, my experience is my experience. I don't want you to go out there expecting to have the same experience, cause I don't want to be wrong and I don't want to be responsible for like you, you know, going out and like having a terrible life. Experience. Cause you know, obviously like obviously different people have different years too. Like you could be end up needing someone who's a fucking Dick. And like, it doesn't like the fact that you're gay or black or Asian or whatever. Um, so I try, I always had to like, let people know like my experience with my experience. I think the child communities insanely awesome. But who knows? Who's going to hike these other years. Yeah, for sure. But I do tell people, go experience it, go see if you like it. Like you will find friends. You will find people that just love you for you. And that's what map and other gay through hikers reach out to you and share their experience. I, cause I think I've heard you talk about this before that it was kind of a, that you didn't have any really bad experiences. So I'm curious if you've had anyone reach out to you to weigh in and be like, actually this was X, Y, and Z happened to me. Um, you know, not that I can think of, but I, I mean, I did the last person I talked to as a, um, uh, trans, uh, man. So I was female to male. Um, he's like as like transitioned and whatnot, but, um, Has like been wanting to hike. The PCT was asking about information and said that he had like, experienced some pretty, like scary run ins with people, but he's like from the East coast. And I think they were like out on the 80 actually, which seems from what I've heard is like, actually like a lot different kind of like trail culture than the PCT. Like, could you attest to that chance is currently in the bathroom, but I'll speak for chance a year. Hartford, like as a white guy, a straight white guy. It's hard for me to say, like, I generally don't have bad interactions other than people that don't like Ginger's. Um, but I mean, certainly the culture is very different Arab. It is. Um, I mean, yeah, you definitely see Confederate flags in the South. Uh, I mean even sometimes like in the mid Atlantic States, But yeah, again, my experience everyone's nice to me, but I understand that that's a very privileged experience. So certainly the culture is very different, but I also, in my experience, rural communities all over the country, kind of all have a similar vibe from that standpoint. So I don't, I don't want to differentiate too much, but the South is definitely its own flavor. Yeah, absolutely. And yeah. And just want to kind, kinda like kind of coming back to like, Being like gay and white is, you know, I mean, If you want to hide your gayness, you can absolutely hide it. If you're scared. I did it. I can't imagine what it's like to be a person of color on the trail when you can't hide the color of your skin. Right. That's that's gotta be even scary. Yeah. Yeah. I, so when we talked to Akuna about that, um, I was assuming obviously that the South would have been. His toughest experience is he, so he hit the triple crown. That was just, that would have been my guess. And he mentioned that his worst run in actually happened in Oregon of all places. So you just, you never know where it can happen. Like again, I think from what I understand, rural communities can be challenging regardless of where you are. If you know, you don't fit the mold. Yeah. And it's, so I love that. Like, people like. Akuna and, um, who Daniel Black Alation. I love him. Like, I love that these people are able to like, be like more media present and like companies are sponsoring them and like raising their voices. Cause I think in the next, I hope in the next five years, there's just like a big fucking influx of like people of color and LGBTQ. I just, I just think it would make the trail experience. So much more interesting. And also just like, kind of on that note, like when I finished the PCT outside magazine or outside online published hacker charge vote, they did fit. That was insane. Yeah. And I, yeah, which was like, I was so excited, like to me, that was like, you know, I knew it was like, this is so fucking cool. Like my work got feature on this like platform. That's so huge. And it's like outdoors and whatever, looking at the comments, there's a lot of great comments, but of course, what do we do we think about the negative? Um, there was a lot of people kind of accusing me like being racist because. Who was in a lot of my photos, a lot of white people who was on the trail, mostly white people. And I was like, I was, Oh, what's that? Oh my God. I remember just seeing stuff that and just being like, okay, don't think about it. That's the end of my head. I was getting like, in my head, I was like getting defensive and I was like, how do I like. Clap back at this. And I was like, I can't clap back at this because also that's just going to make me look like a racist prick. You know, it'd be like, someone's just trying to defend themselves, but it hurt because like, in my heart, I know someone that like tries really hard to just make everyone feel included. And it was just hard for these people commenting. Like they're probably people that have never through hikes, but I'm like, God, I just want people to know that like the trail is really white, but it's like, how do we, so it's like, how do we, you know, get. Make the trail more inclusive. Well, now we're starting to see it with brazing black narratives, which is great. But at that point I was like really at that, by, by that, yeah. For making the trail more inclusive, like, do you have a rapid fire we could do of your favorite people to follow on things like Instagram that wouldn't fit the typical mold and aren't the standard white hiker that people can go to if they want to see some more diversity on their feed. Do you have to do that? Like stand out to you that you could plug? Yeah. Um, let's see. I actually just last week I hung out or with, uh, two girls that were out here. Um, one of her name is, uh, Teresa. And her Instagram is a switchback shoddy. She's a photographer and she's awesome. We had so much fun. And then, um, her, uh, my other friend, Alexis, her Instagram is last lasso, daft row world. So L I S S O S a F R O world. Um, those girls are up. Awesome. I'm trying to think who else I follow, who I really like. Um, there's a guy named, uh, Ron grids. Well, he's a really good up door photographer, um, thinker as well is it's Ron. And then G R I S w E L L. Those are like some of my favorite people I've been following and like interacting with awesome. Yeah. And if you followed them, like there's tons of other people that you can like follow through them, or you could just even go through like, Mike, go to my Instagram page, see who I'm following and there's. Yeah. What's your Instagram, a torque in the dirt. I knew what the answer was. I still can't not know. I never think of you as toric. I always think of you as torque in the dirt. Yeah. I know a lot of people reference that. Yeah. Uh, before we wrap up here, what, what are you looking forward to? What projects? Adventures, et cetera. I know things are strange right now considering it's the apocalypse, but do you have anything on the agenda? Yeah. Um, I'm I'm really, I, this sounds weird. So like, uh, I think right now there's like a lot of tokenism happening, happening, which if you don't like, if people left me, I don't know what tokenism is. It's basically, you know, using a person for their race or sexual orientation to seem inclusive. So basically like a disingenuous use of like an underrepresented person. Um, and so, but like, I'm really trying to like make my work more diverse. Um, Which is kind of, you know, like weird to say, because they don't want to be like, I don't want to reach out to people and make them be like, Oh, we're only using me. Cause you know, I'm the person of color. Cause it's not like that we get the same feedback for the podcast. So it, we, yeah. Yeah. And it's hard because you like, it's this weird dichotomy of like, no, I want like, I want all types of people in my work. I've always, you know, I've even before I did the PCT, I, you know, Photographed all types of people for different projects and stuff. Um, so I, but I do have a couple of like trip. I'm meeting up with some, uh, like this weekend, I'm going to Washington with a girl from Seattle. She's a fly Fisher. She's um, Navajo. And so we're going to do some set of photos and I might be going Montana next week. Um, this guy, Nathan, he owned, um, An outdoor company called stallion it's S T a L Y O N. So black owned business, follow it and support it, but I we're gonna meet up. Um, and I want it, I'm going to do some photos for him, for, um, like of his like outdoor brand, which is going to be pretty cool. So those are kind of like the two little projects they have right now, but I'm hoping like I can keep doing this and like have the money to do it. Cause I just, I I've. I find it's really important that we are like amplifying like black voices right now with everything going on. Um, not just because it's going on, but like, you know, so that in the future people of color, do you feel safe going out on trails and, you know, knowing that they're going to be represented? Yeah, for sure. Black Alachua and especially that guy's on a fucking rocket ship right now, that guy is going to be, he's going to be bigger than. He's so funny. I love it. He's he's hilarious. He's hilarious. I love how he gives no fucks. He's smoking weed all the time. I fucking love that guy. I love it. But there's in between like him and then like, Akuna, who's like this, like just like sweet, soft spoken, like couldn't do it when Akuna did that video of through hiking through his backyard. I was into, yeah. Oh my God. So funny. Yeah. Yeah, those guys are great, but I would love to meet them. Yeah, I couldn't. It's got a giant heart. Uh, all right, man. Well, thank you so much for your time. Like I said, this was a long time coming. I've been trying to get you on the show for a long, long time. I'm glad we were finally able to make it work. Um, any parting words in terms of plugs or general messages or anything, you've got the red carpet to say, whatever, whatever you want to say. I don't think so. I think, yeah. No, thank you for having me on. I really appreciate it. Appreciate your guys' time and uh, yeah, maybe, maybe I'll be out there and we can do promo photos. Let me know. So that's very, that's very humble. Um, what is your website? Uh, my website is, uh, Tommy Corey and Corey is spelled C O R E Y. And that's where people can go if they want your book. Yeah. Yeah, I gotta, I gotta order more. So I'll obviously post about it on my Instagram and stuff. When like they come through again, I'll be ordering more here. And the Instagrams at torque in the dirt. Uh, yes. Cool. Work with a K torque. Thank you so much for your time. Really great to catch up and I can't wait to see more of your adventures moving forward. Awesome. Thanks so much. You guys appreciate it. If you've listened to backpacker radio, you know that both Chauncey and I are big fans of gossamer gear manufacturers of lightweight, backpacking gear and accessories, their packs carry comfortably. They're roomy shelters, protect in harsh weather conditions and the trekking poles. Or some of the lightest on the planet, gossamer gear is changing the perception of delicate ultra light. John and I are both users of gossamer, gears, packs and shelters. I use the gorilla there, 40 liter pack on the PCT and have rocked the light flex hiking umbrella on many hikes, including our trans Catalina trail hike. Chance through like the 18 drink using gossamer gears, the one shelter, which is both Rumi and light weighing in at less than one and a half pounds. It's the one you need, as you know, and good news listeners of backpacker radio can score an exclusive deal on gossamer gear products. Use discount code poop story for 15% off your cart@gossamergear.com. Again, that's poop story. All one word@gossamergear.com. Don't sleep on this deal as it's only good for limited. Get some. To the Trek propaganda portion of today's show. This first one is actually not an article on a new podcast, but it is an ebook. This is the first ebook we've released since I released an ebook in the form of Appalachian trails. I believe no, that's not actually not true, but anyways, uh, this one is from Kelly fluoro, who you've heard. Her name on the show? Many, many times Kelly is actually our newest editors slash lead writer. She's the one who got the trucks full time. Lauren? No. When, when is, where is she? She is in New Jersey right now. Actually. Yeah, she got the news that she got the job and she was like in the middle of the Colorado trail and pitching off Kelly. Yeah, Kelly's a baller. I was like, I think there's a hundred people that applied for it. And you had like lawyers applying? Uh, I don't know about a lawyer. We did have a former editor for a very respected magazine. I won't name names, but. They dabble in the same subject. Okay. Kelly's better. Yeah. Grads Kelly. Kelly's, he's a straight up baller. So, uh, if the site is good from here on out, you've got Kelly to think. And also to that point, she wrote a phenomenal ebook titled how to afford a through hike. There's a long subtitle, which I didn't include here. I don't remember it. But, um, basically this is a $7 ebook that has the potential to save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, especially if you're planning for your first long distance backpacking Trek that I know there's a ton of. Mistakes bear traps that people fall into the first time in terms of their, they try to save money and by getting the cheapest gear possible, and then they get 50 to a hundred miles into their hike and see everyone around them that has nice gear and is happier. And then it ended up. Throwing away that cheap either they buy it and then buying the expensive gear or they go to light and then they're not comfortable and they didn't put any emphasis on comfort and they injure out or they aren't happy. There's so many ways to mess. Yeah. There's a lot of ways to fuck it up. So Kelly did a great job running you through pretty much every possible scenario. She tells you how to budget. She tells you what things you should be spending money on and what things to skimp on, uh, how to. Or what gear you should be targeting for your specific budget, how to avoid the most expensive mistake most through hikers, where and when to shop for gear to maximum savings, use gear, shopping strategies, how to substitute inexpensive household items for costly gear, how to go ultra light without overspending, top gear items for through hikers are the top gear items, the Rikers waste money on. Okay. Best practices for making, maintaining, and repairing gear. The importance of saving for a through hike strategies for developing a through hiking budget and sticking with it, tips and tricks to save money in town and on trail and much more. If you want to check this out, obviously it will be in the show notes and I will include a. Coupon in the show notes. I forgot to create it before the show started, but it's, so the MSRP on this ebook is $7. Uh, I'll save you a couple of bucks on that and there's also, um, we got a bunch of very respected backpacking brands to offer discounts that. It will be available to people who buy the ebook, a gossiper gear, katabatic six moon designs, just to name a few. So if you already know everything that's outlined in this book, I think you'll get your money's worth just with the discounts by itself. You were going to say something I cut you off. Okay. Um, did not prepare for this at all. Did you? This might be a dead segment, but we'll maybe, uh, okay. Triple crown, our old trusty triple crown. This one is, do you want to read it? I like when you read these, because I'm dumb and you're human. This is the triple crown of autumn. Uh, that was really well done. Flip a coin because I think this first one is very low hanging fruit. You can intro, I could say, okay. Which is just that, like, I have gotten news from my job that we're probably not going back to the office until at least, well, they said September and it's September now. So we're obviously not there, but now it's, we're pushed back till March. We're not going back into the office until March. And so because of that, um, I just like, am completely unhappy with my, like at home. Work life situation like my. Home office is also my bedroom, but it was only intended to be a bedroom and was not meant to be a home office. And so I've been doing a bunch of other stuff, which you know about make it more both, but I feel like it's been nesting. Like, I feel like I've been like. Prepping for winter, because I know that I don't have to go out or shovel off my car or drive in the cold in the morning. And when it's icy out and the roads aren't plowed yet, like I know that none of that is going to be happening yet. So I'm one hoping for a really heavy winter and two just like getting my room ready so that it looks really nice that I'm happy just sitting in it all winter long. So I don't plan on leaving the house. Think about that as a certainty. So excited and I don't know why. Yeah. I don't know why either. I have the I'm dreading the winter already, aside from the fact that I'm going to have a kid, I guess I haven't talked about that on the show. I was waiting for you to tell me I was pregnant again, so I could call you out on it because every time you've told me I'm pregnant, I've gotten. Oh, close to being like, no, you are. I actually, well, I mean, I guess technically people, the guy can say that he's pregnant. I don't know how that works. It sounds weird. Yeah, it is. It's only me. Sorry. Generally. You're not involved, but having a kid, we can talk about that. Yeah. It's just graze over the fact that it's Zack is having a baby. Yeah. We can put that in right here. Right. Maybe aside, uh, I actually do have a fun idea for a show that parlays into it. Um, we'll talk about it after the show, cause I don't want to spoil it, but I think it'd be really cool. Okay. But you have to give. You can't just leave people on this book or give, like, I had sex with my wife and now she's having a kid. No, you spoiled the stork story. But apart from that, like, come on. What size watermelon cantaloupe melon. You asked me this last time. I actually don't remember. I can say the, yeah. The only thing that I do know we did the 16 week ultrasound. Or 20 week. I forget what it, even what it was. Uh, but our little boy was in the 65th percentile, so perfectly. Okay. So we're revealing the gender. He's a boy. He's a boy. He's going to be like, and guy, are we going to rebuild the name? No, certainly not. Uh, no, not even my mom knows the name, so she'd be a little bit upset if the backpacker radio audit it, get me more drunk. I tried last time we left the episode, we were walking out of here and I was like, I don't talk to anyone. You know, like, it's fine. You can tell me, but you were pals. You can just, you can just tell me confide and he wouldn't do it. Yeah. Uh, you're gonna have to pay me a lot of money. I mean, you named your dog Sierra so I could see your name and your kid, like cascade or something. I will say this, my wife is campaigning for the more outdoorsy name and I want a more traditional name, I guess, traditionally as long. Yeah. What does she want? Rainier? I can't say cause it's in the running, so it's not finalized. It's not finalized. We're between two, still look at his face first to know idea. She actually she's a pendulum. At this point, you ask her any given day. Her take is a little bit different. I'm a little bit more. That's what I want, but I'm open to you. You meet someone, then you name them. That's kind of how I feel about is she having any weird food cravings yet? No, but I can say with great confidence that the first trimester for her was a absolute nightmare. She was in really bad shape, nauseous all the time, tired, not the happiest person. And then she got to that. She turned the corner into the second trimester. And she was just so excited that she could eat that she's just started eating everything. It wasn't even necessarily that she had that level of hiker hunger, but I think she was just excited that she could actually palate food again. Uh, she, the craziest thing could set her off. She literally intimately had to put a head of garlic in a Ziploc bag. And then in another Ziploc bag, yeah, you were saying she couldn't stand the smell. Garlic, just like a head of garlic, not cooked, not exposed. Just. Normal garlic. And then she put the garlic in the garage and then that was 204. So she put it outside. And now we just have bags of garlic outside of our house. Yeah. She's uh, she's doing much better today. When's the baby. The baby is due at the end of December. So we're going to squeeze it out for all the tax savings, deductibles and all that stuff. But yeah, I have a feeling he's been, he's a very active boy. He's been punching it. Like I can actually see her stomach twitching from him punching from the inside. So, uh, if I had to guess he's, he's ready to get out and get on the trail. Excellent. Okay. Um, do we want to make like any predictions. Now that like, he's not here yet when we can't base it on anything. Like, what do you think will be his best sport? Nothing like his dad, none of them. Uh, he'll be good at gambling on sports. He'll be good at walking long distances. Um, I don't know, John is not all that athletic either, so he's probably not destined for the NBA. What do you think he'll be allergic to. Cuties girls for like the first 10 years. What about dogs? Ooh. If he's allergic to dogs, that's a problem. We've got a couple of those around the house. Yeah. Would you get rid of the dog first or the kid? This is a sad story. So when a Jenna's friends just came over today, they have a two year old and they have a pit bull mix. And, uh, the, the dog bit, the kitchen. Oh, that's not where I thought this was going to go to put the dog down. No, because I don't like this store. Yeah. The adoption like fostering process, I guess, is crazy right now because of COVID. Um, the dog always had like an aggressive side to it, but you know, it. When there wasn't a kid involved, they were able to train it and keep it in check. But you know, when you've got your little toddler roaming around and the dog was not only, not only did it in the face, but it was aggressive about it. Like the dog went up to the kid and bit the kid, it wasn't provoked. You're going to have to put Ruby behind the gate. I am a little bit, Sarah doesn't love kids. She doesn't have an aggressive bone in her body, but it'll be interesting to see how that dynamic plays out. Uh, Oh, um, What color do you think their hair will be? Will they be a ginger? John doesn't have any ginger in her family I've got in mind. Yeah, seriously. I mean, my great, great grandfather allegedly was a ginger, but he died before he got to see his ginger coughs. Both of my grandparents had red hair. Uh, I've got two cousins on my dad's side, three cousins, two cousins on my dad's side with red hair. So I it's definitely in my DNA matrix. Um, we're predicting a Blondie. Oh, that'd be kind of nice. Yeah. Mmm Hmm. How tall do you think you'll be? What do you think is best subject be in school? Hmm. Uh, Best subject. Let's go with that one. I'm going to go with math. Math was my strength growing up. I always did really well. What do you think you will be most disappointed in him for between now and 18? Uh, I won't be disappointed about anything. I'm gonna love him for who he is, as long as he's exactly like his dad. What are you going to do when you catch him drinking? I'm going to, I'm going to take the European approach. And when he's 14, he's going to have his first beer with me. And we're going to talk about responsible drinking because, uh, my parents were very strict with drinking about me. And I don't know if you know this about me, but I like to drink. And like when I got to college, it was, I didn't drink. I hardly drank in high school. And then when I got to college, it was, uh, I went off the deep end a little bit. That was me in high school. Yeah. Um, so what happens when he takes your 14 year old talk and completely ignores it and comes home and wasted one night? Ooh. Um, what's your parenting strategy gonna be? Don't murder him. I don't know. I haven't. These are the questions I haven't thought through, but this is, I just want him to have something to go back and pull from when he's here. Yeah. Parenting from the past, but dad, you said you wouldn't get mad in that episode. I will say. This is a focus that I've had with training Sierra. And I think this is true for psychology in general is I believe that positive reinforcement is the most effective strategy. I don't think punishment generally is as effective granted, the way you raise a kid and a dog are different, but I think generally speaking, the brain learns better when you're rewarding someone as opposed to punishing them. How old is he going to be when it gets for a cell phone, this is something that John and I have talked about. I'm more so I'm less concerned about the cell phone and more so concerned about the social media thing. I think social media in general is kind of a bad thing, especially for young kids that, you know, they haven't like formed a self esteem. No Instagram until you're 16. I dunno. I'm also opposed to the prohibition strategy. Cause I feel like that always backfires so well at baby Davis run by his mommy and daddy. Uh, I, one thing that I strive to not be as the parent, who's constantly posting their kid on. Social media channels because the kid doesn't get a say in that. You're going to think they're so cute. It's going to be like me looking at Harper. And I'm like, everyone wants to see this. And no one does. I post so many stories and photos of Sierra on my Instagram. That's a dog. Exactly, exactly my point. So those words. I don't, I don't know. Maybe my wife will feel differently about it, but, um, you know, I feel like you should have to, you should have the ability to sign off. There's a lot of times where Vikings posting things of me that I haven't signed off on, on the Instagram and that pisses me off. I don't want to be Viking in there. I like when Viking sends me unsolicited, unsolicited videos of you and I'm like, I've got such good blackmail. Yeah. He's a terrible person. There's a reason than that. I don't let them into my life too much because he's a terrible, terrible person. Yeah, we've got to have him back on. Okay. Triple crown of automize. Okay. Yeah. So I'm nesting for winter because I can't wait to just go indoors. Um, and I hope it's yeah, the press and winter, I get down in winter, big time, but I have to be outside and I'm cold and I'm uncomfortable, but you know, when it's like a snow storm and it's on a Saturday and you don't have to leave the house, I mean, you never have to cause you work for yourself, but it's like, you're watching the heavy snowflakes through a window, but you're warm because the fireplace is going. Yeah. That's going to be my whole winter. The fact that you've got a fireplace does make me a little bit out there, a fireplace. And I did the math the other day to see how much I was spending on Starbucks and realized that if I just got a coffee cart and like assembled that and like got all the stuff for it, it would pay for itself after two weeks. I like how hard of attorney took into the coffee world, but now I can make mochas. I can get little mini marshmallows. Like it is the perfect transition. Yeah, the cold weather, you should. It's a little bit, cause you mentioned that last night we did a, uh, intern dinner with Elise. That was a lot of fun. It was fun. Uh, that you mentioned last night that you didn't know how to make coffee. No Elliot makes it every day. Yeah. That was the deal. Is he had to make the coffee. Yeah, you would cry if you saw how easy drip coffee is. No, but you know, what is I've, I've learned, I've worked at restaurants for more than five years, five to seven years, probably five restaurants. And every time they have taught me how to make coffee and there's just no retention in my brain for it. And I've tried, like we have a French press and I stress is a little bit more involved, but that's the direction I was going to go. I tried putting the stuff in it and putting the water in and it just. The reviews where it was not palatable. Yeah. Fresh press is a little bit more tricky because you have to get the ratio is exactly right. The timing you have to get the water to the correct temperature, which by the way, Denver is actually a great place to make French press coffee, because water boils at the same temperature that you want to steep the coffee yet. Oh, that's a fun fact. That is a fun fact. Um, no, so I just like, I, you know, know your strengths. So my strength was ordering everything on Amazon. Elliot strength is knowing how to make the coffee. So in an ideal housing relationships. And so he leaves for work at five, 6:00 AM. And I wake up for work at 8:00 AM. He makes the coffee, like I provide all the, I provide all the tools. He gets the coffee and makes it in the morning. And then there's enough in the pot where it's still hot for winter. I wake up and then I don't have to do anything. Is he just using an auto drip? Coffee machine. Well, we have a grinder too, and I don't know anything about buying coffee beans. So Weezer will hook us up with beans from her place. But if we're at a coffee beans, I'm just like Elliot we're out of coffee beans. Is that a yes to. What device is actually making the coffee, but that's out of the pot that goes in and out. Yeah. So it's a, just a drip coffee filter. Yeah. Yeah. But you know what? He's not as good as it is. You think either, because the other day he was complaining that the button in the middle said brew off and he was like, what is this? I brew off. Like, you're brewing it. You know, like it's not off. Why would it be brew off? And I was like, Elliot, it's Bruce slash off. Like it's either brew or off. There's a learning curve with these different devices. For sure. It's not totally intuitive. Yeah. Okay. Triple crown of Baltimore. Uh, are we calling that one of them? No, that was just the, I guess that's more winter than anything I'm out of. I'm out of summer. My head is up to summer. What's your favorite season? Fall. Okay. I'm a little bit concerned when I meet someone who doesn't have that answer at this point. I don't know. Maybe when you're a kid summer because there's no school. Yeah, no, you have to at least have some sort of preference. Like you dread one and you. Get excited for another. You just have to, I just feel like falls objectively the best. Oh yeah. Cause like summer's just beat the shit out of you and you're way too hot and sweaty and you want it to cool down. And then it's got that smell. Like there's that crisp leaf smell and Ugh. So slow down, slow down now. I love fall. Okay. Starting candles. Wow. Burden. I've been burning candles all week. I've got pumpkin harvest going. I've got fall harvest. I've got harvest fall. Um, every variation of those words, I've gotten my house burning. So today's September 2nd. I feel like burning the pumpkin candle on September 2nd is a kin to playing Christmas music on like Thanksgiving day. Let's, you know, what's on my record player on Thanksgiving. Yeah. You know me? Well, yeah. You're just, you're living one day at a time and you know what? I'm happy about it. Yeah. I can't not take it because it's so obvious the fall foliage. Yeah. That one is just too good. Yeah. It's going to start peaking in September and it's in Colorado. It's so nice. The Aspen trees are so pretty. I'm actually curious to get your take on the Colorado foliage versus New York, because everyone tells me new England is the best, right? Like here, it's a lot of yellow and it's a lot of like, you get those white, gray, Aspen trees, the bright yellows and oranges. And it looks really pretty like in contrast. In New York, it's like red leaves, like bright, vibrant red leaves, like bright orange leaves even leaves that look perfect. And so like, when I say fruity pebbles, cereal, it's cause you see like those different colors all next to each other and that's something you don't see yet here. Yeah. But it's, they're different. But they're both really good. Yeah. Yeah. When I left the long trail last year, it was just before the people age. And I was a little bit upset with my timing. As I have discussed in the past a snake draft, I'm going to go with it. I don't, you're going to not like this one football. No, I love that one. I've been excited for them. Um, when was it that I got it? Cause it was my draft pick. No, I wouldn't have thought of that, but yeah, when they play that NFL song. Yeah. Like I , yeah. I get that like flashback of like sitting in my living room, there's a fire going in the fireplace. My dad's complaining about something and like, there's like some chestnuts. It's just so nice. I love that song feeling of not leaving your house on a Sunday and having a full day of things to look forward to. It's just very sad. You got maybe some chili cooking in the background. It's just weird to get, like, my mom's making a stew. My dad's yelling at the TV in the background and it's just like a nostalgic. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Football football. Sundays is the best. We'll see if that actually happens this year, but, uh, as of today, at least it looks like they're going to try. There is a very huge part of me that is upset this year because the bills are finally playing in Denver. And the past couple of years, they haven't. And I was so excited when they announced it like January or February. And I was like, it was like, Oh my God, this is going to be the highlight of my December is when they play here. And now I'm probably not gonna be able to go watch it. There is talk of them trying to rush through the vaccine by early November, obviously for political purposes or to say it seems, uh, so maybe things will be different. It probably won't be different. Yeah. If I can go to the Bill's game and watch it I'll smash table. Cool. Sweet. I mean, they couldn't stop us from tailgating. She could do a backpack, radio tailgate. We were saying when's our next through hacker meetup. It'll be a socially distanced. Outdoor culdesac type Bill's tailgate. Here's the thing is those fold-out tables are actually kind of expensive. I wonder if back country or Sawyer would like to sponsor some full out tables, we will spray paint their company name on the table, and then we'll both just dive onto it. Then we'll get to work the documented. Yeah. So the whole thing happening here, they'll probably insist we set the table on fire cause of like the aesthetic and then put it out with milk. I'm. So in on this, we figured out our fault. Um, great pick, uh, up. Ooh, I'm gonna say the smell. Yeah. There's that smell? I have a note here. That fucking smell was mine. So yeah, family feud, I think in the air, you walk out of your door, you open a window and you're like, Oh. It's fall. And I just like nothing beats that it is what is it is the, it's gotta be the leaves, right? It's just like something there there's a distinct fondness happening. Yeah. It's like a little crisp, but a little like the sun, like the sun feels warm, but the air feels cold. Yeah. Perfect. Flannel weather. Yeah. Um, okay. Snake draft, uh, Wearing less revealing clothing so you can eat more cookies. I mean, I'm kind of always there. So sweater, weather, um, yeah, primetime cookie eating soup. Is this a weird comment, but I feel like you've got some guns right now. Is this a new thing? Have you been, I just hiked. Uh, the John Muir trail. I don't know if you know. Yeah, but were you doing it? Were you curling your backpack along the way? No, but I was carrying a pool float. They do look really good. I don't know if I've ever seen a bicyclist kind of. Damn isn't feel strong. Fuck. Alright. No one fuck with Sean's. She's good. She's good. So will the desk, well, actually I built a desk. I was doing a lot of heavy lifting. You built all and Harvard got spade. So they said she couldn't go up and down the stairs. So I've been carrying her up and down the stairs every time she has. She's what, like 40 pounds now, 38. There you go. Seven carrying her up and down the stairs every time. Um, so yeah, you know, just. Working out. And then in a month and a half, you don't have to worry about any of that season cookies, pumpkin pie, pumpkin pie is, I feel like anytime before Thanksgiving is a little bit earlier. No, you need to S like it's, it's one of those things where good things are worth waiting for. You need to wait for your pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving, because it will taste better. Than it would otherwise, if you don't eat it until then. Yeah. I feel like if you're eating pumpkin pie in October 15th, it's just going to taste stale. No, it's like, you have to, like, that's breaking the seal is the nostalgia. And like then warm and fuzzy Thanksgiving, pumpkin pie. And then once you've broken that seal, then you can have free random pumpkin pie until Christmas, a pumpkin pie with, or without whipped cream. Honestly, either like if there's a pumpkin pie sitting there, I will be like sneaking slices. Um, but if there's a cannabis cream, they're like, I'm going to pour it on the side of the plate and go back and forth just cause like, yeah, I am a whipped cream who were, I can go through an entire canonicity do people put ice cream on their gram come by? Oh, I thought the ice cream would probably be too dense and would actually. Make the pie dilapidated, but I'm just guessing. I don't know. I can't say that. Um, I'll throw in the pumpkin pie category, also Apple crumb cake and like those Apple pies with the crumb topping with like the caramel you're actually getting close to my next one. So I'm just going to say it. I'm gonna do a two for one, uh, Apple donuts. Um, I don't think I've ever had one. No, if you go, I feel like every Apple orchard has this it's Apple flavor donuts and it's, uh, it's kinda like the. Grainy texture to it. Like there's sugary texture. I don't know how it's made what they look like. I just, like, I was always on such a beeline for the caramel apples and like the candy apples. Oh, caramel apples are so good. Yeah, shit. I should have taken that. And then I'm going to lump that together with Apple orchards, just in general. Yeah. Um, do you think you add portraits in Colorado? Like in New York? They're huge. Like we have, like, there are less out here and I, I would guess fewer varieties of apples. I have never done it, but I've looked into it. They do exist. Like he didn't like the basket pickers. I haven't gone since then, like 40 apples. And you're like, and you're like, you fill your bag, but then you also feel your hood and you feel like you're asleep and you're like, feel so sneaky going off with like for sure. Yeah. And you're so sick of apples by the time that you leave there, that those apples just sit in. Yeah. And then like three weeks later, you're like, fuck, I need to make good apples. Yeah. It's the only way I can eat apples in donut form. Oh my mom, you're going to be so mad at me. Um, we have Apple trees that are upstate house and like a lot of them are just like, Oh, we don't have pesticides or anything like that because they're just like wild Apple trees until a lot of them have holes in them from like worms. And a lot of them fall on the ground or like there's a bite out of them deer. And they're just like not attractive apples. And my mom used to make applesauce with them and it was disgusting. And me and my brother, I remember there was one time we were sitting at the table crying, cause we didn't want to eat this Apple sauce and she wouldn't let us leave the table until we'd finish eating, eating. It probably cause she put so much time and effort into making it. And we were just sitting there like it tastes like. Throw up and like, I don't know why I can never forget that memory of like us just like wanting to vomit from this applesauce. And we couldn't get up from the table until we finished a plate of it. It's scarred applesauce for you in general love applesauce. It's just like those apples taste like shit. Yeah. Sorry. Uh, okay. You're I think you get the last two. Last one. We could probably go forever with this one. Let's make it the quadrant. I agree, watch Gilmore girls every fall expecting, he gave me a hundred guests. So nice. Like you get that like, like that soundtrack, they were just like LA LA LA, LA LA. Like, it's just like this, like. Nice homey, warm soundtrack. And the story is always the same and it's just so happy and warm and fuzzy. Yeah, they did a revival season. Um, I get the point of it. Okay. Let's just say, I don't know. I'm excited to rewatch it. Yeah. Um, let's just go. One on one, I'm going to go soup season. I love, I fucking love soup. I haven't forced soup into me a couple nights ago. And like, it was a high of 90 in the afternoon when Panera starts doing their autumn squad. That is, that's a great time. Are you a bread bowl gal? Um, if I didn't care about how I looked, I would eat every dreadful, well come October when it's hoodie season bread balls all day, right? Or is it still, does that cross your line? Uh, I don't know. The last time I've had a bread bowl, it's probably, self-conscious probably like a thousand calories just in that loaf of bread. I just like it. It's not worth the guilt. I feel afterwards. I just beat myself too much. Yeah. I like to cheat. That would not be the way that I would do it. You felt like you've always looked the same shape. Your shape has never been. It's like slightly soft, like married, married. He looks married by practicing my dad, bud. Okay. You got any more? I'm just like, I'm just like, thinking about leaves falling on the ground. Leaf piles was one of mine. I bet your dog would get down on some leaf piles. I don't know. I just think it's like a nostalgic time of year. Like I just think like everyone's like getting kind of warm and fuzzy feeling and. The weather's getting colder. So you're getting a little more like snugly the analogy that I like to use for fall. Is the, like when you're roasting a marshmallow, it goes from, I am a freshman though. One's a marshmallow, but it goes from perfect to terrible, very quickly. That's how I feel about the transition from fall to winter. Yeah, but like, you never think about that when you're like, I didn't think about that at all, until you just said that and kind of ruined my assault. I realized that really pulled me from it. I'm I'm unusually dreading winter this year. Cause I feel like the ski resorts are either gonna be closed or fucked. They, I think they already announced that they're not going to close them. They're doing reservations only. Yeah. Or first they're doing reservations for pass holders first and then for like open buyer tickets. Yeah. But I just know, you know, restaurants are going to be a no go. This is going to bite us again because bless how we didn't. Corona predictions. We have to pull it. If we go on the dark side of things, at least, you know, we can compensate. I think it's going to get bad again. I think like, I think like how flu season pops up and gets people worried. I think Corona, season's going to pop back up and people get sicker in the winter and like the cold, just like any time you sneeze, you get worried. And I think that everything's going to close again, and that is why I am making my bedroom. Is. Homey as possible. And the house has much of something I don't want to leave as possible is because the majority of me does not expect I'll be allowed to leave it. I think people are mentally preparing for kind of an isolated winter, at least my circle of people. Yeah. Like I. Me and Harper will close the doors and shut the blinds. And we'll see you in the spring. Does he, does your alcohol consumption go up in the winter? No. My alcohol consumption goes way down when I'm by myself. Cause like I, yeah, but I'm like a social drinker and it's like, yeah, cool. The two of us could drink. And then what, you know, like we just sit here, you know, like it's, there's nothing fun to that. Spoken like a true, not alcoholic. Alright. I don't. I think that's actually not a non sarcastic statement cause I'm not, I don't drink by myself. No, I, I was more so poking fun at myself. Oh, I thought you were telling me that was being an alcoholic. I was like that. I only drink socially. No, no, no, no, no. Um, I'm uh, rubbing myself here. Okay. That was a triple crown of automize. Email us, let us know what we missed podcasts at the Trek Patsy. Oh, okay. I am very excited for this one because we got a, we got a taste of it last night and it was pretty much it dominated the entire conversation. Do you want to intro what we talked about last night? I'm not going to do it justice, but I'll give it my best shot is this scenario is you're aware of a snail that exists. It is the smartest life form on earth that is smarter than anything else that exists. And it is it's sole purpose is to kill you and to kill you. All that it has to do is make contact with you, touch you. Um, The question is how long do you have to live? Yeah. Like how long are you going to survive? We should definitely do that one sometime, but I want to do one that I'm not prepped for. I want to, I want to fully forget that whole center. Yeah. So this is the segment call, tentative working title. You can message us if you have a better name, because we haven't thought of one yet, but it's like Reddit brain busters. So these are things that we find on Reddit that are just like brain busters. Subreddit is that the terminology ask Reddit R slash ask Reddit. Okay. Um, so this one me and Elise looked at and we had the same answer, but I'm curious if Zach's would be the same and if he would have the same reasons for why that's a little bit of a story, which is why it's different than the question of the day. The question and then I'll explain the backstory. But the question is how long would you let someone pee on you for $300 a day? Um, hypothetical scenario, an anonymous billionaire is privately funding. This, you will never meet them. They're not filming, you're recording any aspect of this. They simply enjoy knowing they have this kind of power each day. You are woken up by a man peeing on you. This man has been hired by the billionaire to pee on you. They are regularly checked by doctors to make sure they are healthy and infection free. Regardless. Urine is sterile, stinky, but harmless, as soon as the pee hits your face and Oh yes, he'll aim for the face. You can jump out of bed and go into the shower while you are showering. The man who pees on you will switch your mattress. Put on new sheets and leave $300 in cash and your dining room table. The above situation will happen every single day for the rest of your life. Until one evening you decide you do not want to be peed on the next morning and cancel, then it can never start again, ever. A few conditions you may have as little or as much interaction with the man who pees as you want. The man who pees will act as an alarm clock slash wake up call. You can tell him to begin peeing at 6:30 AM. And that's exactly when he will start. If you share the bed with someone, he will be aiming for you. But splash back on the sleeping partner is a possibility. If you go on vacation, he travels as well. He will typically stay in the hotel room next to yours. The question is, how long would you say? Uh, yeah. Truthfully none days, zero days. So quick math, that's $110,000 a year. You obviously don't have to work. That's a good, you can live off $110,000 pretty easily. Um, but I'm married and I don't know how my wife would feel about her getting splashed back here. And even if this is quote unquote, Clean sterile urine. Um, also I couldn't imagine a worst way to be woken up. Wow. Me and Elise had the complete opposite reaction. We were like, yeah, forever, because they, okay. Think about it this way. One like, yeah, he's paying on your face, but you're going to get used to it at some point. It's going to go in your mouth. You're drinking, piss. You're drinking. Think about the benefits, you know, how nice it feels to get into clean sheets and how annoying it is to change. Do they cover. This guy is changing your sheets for you. You're getting in fresh sheets every night. You were sleeping on clouds every night. Cause your sheets are brand new, fresh, fine clean sheets because yeah, you're climbing into clean sheets, but you're climbing out of piss soak sheets. No, it just says he changes them. He washes the chair. Yeah. But you also wake up with him, pissing all over you. So as you're waking up, there's piss all over these shoes. You gotta get up. Anyway, you go shower. Yeah, but you're starting off with this. Like I would way rather get into sheets that are two weeks old of not being cleaned that have no piss potential, or I should say very little, you could work eight hours a day. And make it half of that, or you could just wake up to some pee on your face and then do whatever you want to do that day anywhere you want, because you'll travel with you. I guess it would pay for my therapy for having to confront the fact that I've chosen a life with pee my mouth every morning. Yeah, but like, if it ever gets unbearable, you can say stop, but you can like save a bit first and like, you know, you can, he's probably a cool dude. What makes you think this guy's cool. He doesn't have STDs. It sounds boring to me. He's obviously never been to burning, man. I think he'd be like a family friend. It'd be like a, like, you know how you have the. I don't think a billionaire, if the billionaire is doing this to no, no, it's not the billionaire. It's some of the billionaires I know, but like, he's calling the shots. If he's trying to entertain himself, he's not like hiring your friendly neighbor. He's getting some guy that is like a sketchy character. Who's barely passing this. You have to be test, but once you get through that hard exterior, shallow, they're probably just a big softie and they're going to be with you every day. So they're going to be spending holidays with you and vacation. So it's probably like endearing where it's like, ah, now you open your present, you know, it's surprise it's new anywhere. Cause you pee on me every day, you know? In the winter, when you get the annual cold and your nose get stuffy and you have to breathe through your mouth, he's aiming for your face. You're waking up drowning as someone who's not good at waking up early. I think it would be great to be like, Hey, wake me up at five 30. I literally can't snooze this alarm. If you would like to pay me half of that, I guarantee you, I could wake you up with very little pice. Okay. But the thing is, I'm not paying him, he's paying me. Sure. Okay. I'll do it for free. How about that? No, but the point is that he's paying me, but you're, you're excited that they are not excited about the P I'm excited about, but you also just said that you're excited to wake up early and well, no, I'm just looking for the silver lining. I'm like seeing the pros in this area, we could probably get a Patrion boost for me to come with you. He wants to pay me $300 a day to piss on my face every morning. Mom, close your ears. DME. Here's the question. This could actually be a little moneymaker for you. What would the going rate be? If someone wanted to buy foot photos? I have someone in my DMS right now that wants to pay $200 for five to 10 foot photos. And you wouldn't do that. They don't like can wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait. I don't. It's like me and Weezer involved. Lapse answered as a joke. Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait. So let me get this straight. For $300. You are, you are very willing to have some stranger coming to your house every day, pee in your face. He's only a stranger at first. Sure. We're going to have years together and your face for $300. That's good. For $200. You're not willing to send feeder dumb and gross. You take one snapshot. Everybody wants five photos, 10 photos. You said, I mean, part of it is like, it's like a funny joke, like responding, but then like part of it is like, listen, if anyone wants to pay any amount of money for my feet, I don't care how many pesos you're offering. I will. Okay. I'll read it. Can, do you want me to read the conversation? Um, So Ellie ball flap helped me craft the replies. So February 15th, 12, 13:00 AM. This guy says any chance you would sell sexy slash nude or feet content. I pay in all caps very well. February 16th, 5:25 PM. This is Elliot. He said, can't do the nudes, but depending on the price I can consider the feet, foot emoji. Would you like them clean or XX? Extra dirty. He said definitely clean Elliot, put money, same money. Same question Mark. February 21st, 7:38 PM. He said you have cute feet, right? I didn't answer it. Cause I was like, I wasn't with Weezer, Elliot. So it like, wasn't fun. Cause I wasn't with them. And then at 10:31 PM, he said I've been working 60 hours the last three weeks. So I've been absent from social media. I'm sorry. I didn't answer again cause I wasn't with them. And I was like, this is like us having fun again. Soliciting news is apologizing for how long it took the okay. 28th, 12, 19:00 AM. He said a hundred dollars to start. Um, we said for how many photos? And then no answer. And then August 21st. So we went from February to August. We skipped all those months in between, out of nowhere. How about $200 for five to 10 picks, XX, extra dirty for us few pigs and clean for a few more. And I never answered. Cause it was like, I dunno, we were just like, we were just like having like a, we do X, X, X, foot photos. This is out of my wheelhouse. Here's the thing it's like, I don't want to like spoil it for the guy on your toe or something. No, I would probably just send him pictures of my feet from the trail or they're like really disgusting, but it's like, they're already on the internet. So I, would you pay me for them? Yeah. You know, like you've already got access to those. It's the thing I understand. It's real. Everything's real. Everyone's got a thing. So I'm not, would you pay someone for photos of their feet when their photos of their feet are. Like in photos on the internet already. Same reason why porn stars makes that much money with that only fans thing. They want like a personalized, they feel like, Oh, she's foot photoing for me. This is a personalized foot photo. Do you stop at the ankle? Like where does the foot end? That's a great question. Now we're out of my pay grade. And like, do you put like a different background? Like my foot in the grass, my foot in the dirt, my foot in some water. Yeah. Like what angle? You know, like how do we hike trash? Both my heat. Preferences for like, do you want side boob on your boob? Yeah. Like what's, what's the corollary with feet. Like, do you want the top of the feet? Do I need to get a pedicure or do they have to be painted? Yeah, I was actually surprised that they wanted it very clean feed. I figured if you're going to go in the foot, if I'm the one you're asking, surely like you probably are expecting it. Yeah. Yeah. Right there. I have some questions, six. So they're like, I mean, here, I'll give you a free show. This is my foot. These two are kind of webbed. They're fine. I actually have the same thing. Maybe that's a gender thing. And then that one fell off that toenail fell off on the trail. So it's kind of always a little might start high too. That might be a red head thing. I got scabs. I don't even know what the scabs are from. I got another one here, although no one's clamoring to buy my feet. And it's like, do you want like a side angle? Do you want portrait? Yeah. Like, are you gonna have one toenail that's partially paying. Um, so the Polish, no, the Polish rubs off of all the other toenails first and the big knit, the big toes, the one that retains the Polish, the longest. Cool. I'm overdue. Whoever that gentlemen who slid into your DMS is very jealous of the shots I just got. Apparently he probably listens like, Hey, give me some insight. Cause I, well, somebody, someone were just laughing at this, but like, I think like I would probably send you a photo of my foot for some money. Sorry, mom. Close your ears again. Can someone email us anonymously and make a new email address, call it footGuy@gmail.com or whatever it might be. I, and so just explain to me the foot thing. Cause I'm so curious. I just don't maybe there's no way to explain it. I don't know. But I'm curious, is there a part of the foot that's like the, like the heel is the sexy part. Like it's like a, girl's like, you know how they were like shoulder blades they're in, is it like. Thank you. Pinky toes are in what's in right now. I just remember seeing that on like a cosmic, the magazine when I was in middle school. Yeah. Um, yeah, maybe it's like the toes or the hot part or the like, Arch. I don't know. I wonder if there's like a certain toenail length that is ideal. Oh yeah. I've seen people get like, fake, like how they get like fake tips on their fingernails. I've seen people get like fake nails on their toes and I don't get why you would want any sort of an overhang off your toes, like a bear claw. Right? Like that just seems like it's kind of into, I mean, there's people that are legitimately into furries. There are a furry convention, you know, about this, right? Yeah. Yeah. So there's, there's something for everyone. I just want to understand this something. Yeah. I wonder if he's specifically into ginger feet or if it's just like whoever's beat. No, because I don't have to like ginger hair. You probably have ginger hairs on your feet. Yeah. See, so you would know that yours is a ginger foot or it's. Mine is just like a naked mole rat, but some of them are even gray. I you're getting older. Your foot is great. Ah, yeah. So that's a Reddit brain busters, uh, email us. What would you do about the $300 piss in the face? I have a feeling we'll get a lot of people agreeing with you. I liked that we were opposite ends of the spectrum. I was worried that you would just be like, yeah, I'll have him pee on my face every day. And then it would be like, Oh, it's an easy answer because all of us would just rather that. So here's the deal is I have a depends on the day that you asked me, but I have a job that I like. I would rather make half as much money having some degree of honor to my day. Like your job a lot more. If you didn't have to worry about the money aspect of it. I mean, if I had a hundred thousand dollars coming in, you'd have an office built off of your portrait. Right? Well, he wouldn't stop working. I would just read and cook all the time. I become a dad of the year, so much happier with the other 23 hours and 59 minutes of your day. The emotional scarring I think would be too deep for me. Yep. Alright, ready to bring busters. That's a good, this is a good segment. This one's going to stick. I can, I can feel it already. Yeah, I, yeah, I, I had good feelings, so yeah. Uh, alright. One minute gear review. Okay, awesome. Do you have yours? Yeah, I'm going to start with my Yeti cooler. You just hiked. So this should be easy for you. Um, I'll do a Gary of you right now. I brought a $5 Walmart floating on the JMT. It was one of the ones that has like a rainbow Stripe going up the big part. Like you can lay your whole body flat on it, but it also had a head rest to it. Yeah. It actually kind of looked a bit as zebra gum when you're talking about, does it stop it? Did you bring some. Is that a canteen canteen holder. It's a fashionable woven bag, which is really hard to find stuff in getting a passport. Let's make a segment. What's in transit. Oh, nice. Hell yeah. Is this as bad as you remember? Uh, so the colors obviously corresponded with the flavor, right? Yeah. They all taste the same, you know, I'm going for pink, you know, I am, and they got the little, um, tattoos on them of the zebra doing different sports. And they're gonna run out of flavor in literally three seconds about the tattoo there's instructions written on the label. I got to look into, if this was always a thing, because it was, I was in my porch balancing on a kickball while putting one of these on my wrist. When I was like five, I love temporary tattoos, but I don't know. I always fucked him up. Like half the time I fucked him up. So they'd be like in Tupelo, it'd be like a smeared tattoo and I always lived. Right. So moistened skin slightly. So just look your hands then please tattoo color side down. I can't read the next instructions. Cause I already put my tattoo down. Please press firmly for 15 seconds. One, two, three. Where are we going to bang now? What do you think the tattoo will go on first or the gum will run out of flavor. That's why they have you do the tattoos to distract you from how quickly the flavor where's the flavor count. You're putting it next to your real tattoo. Are you worried that people are going to compliment the fake tattoo? I'm getting it on my hand. Do you have that force tattoo right in your wrist? Yeah. This is a good radio. Uh, your, uh, your five minutes. You're listening to us, to the gums. Gotta be the worst. We're at that point of this room where you guys just have to deal with those. Yeah. It happens every time it's at the deal with us. Um, so the lakes in the Sierra were so beautiful, but they were also so cold and Mims was so okay. Like farewell was so okay with jumping in every single one. And me as a cold person could not do it. I could not get past my knees in half of these lakes. So I brought an inflatable Walmart floaty because it was more buoyant than the X light, which was what our debate was. And I'm so glad I did because I was more above water than I would have been had. I used an inflatable sleeping pad. It like weighed a bunch, but like who cares if it was worth the joy? And it was just so nice to lay out on those lakes and not feel cold. Cause like I could actually enjoy being on the Lake and just like getting bounced by the little windy, rapid not Rapids. What are they called? The little windy bumps in the Lake waves like waves. Okay. Leaves. It's not, it's not terrible. This is, I mean, well, it was like, you have a disease that looks like it looks really bad. I mean, it does look like a Bain popped, but you can look at, like, if you look at mine really closely, you can see the, Oh yeah. How'd yours. Turn out so much more sharp. I stayed really still. Yeah. See, this is, this is my history with temporary tattoos, people cancer. So I won't belabor that, but that's a good one. You went into the high Sierra with some world class gear. And your takeaway was the $5 floater that you got to walk. Yeah. Uh, this one is kind of a reflection of just how not hiker trash. My summer has been, just been a lot more car camping than backpacking. And, uh, I've been given the good fortune of testing, a Yeti Tundra hall, uh, which is one of the normal Getty coolers, but it's the one that you can actually pull. Is it the one with the two handles or the one with the one lifting up? Yeah, one lifting up handle. Okay. So I was actually kind of bummed out to be testing that one at first. Cause like that's just not what I associate with a Yeti cooler in general, or like a nice cooler and then. I realized that this thing empty is heavy as fuck let alone, when you've got 20 pounds of ice and, you know, 24 beers in there, it's legitimately like a strongest world or like the world's strongest man competition to carry this thing. Any distance. It is a feat. Yeah. So, uh, and moral of the story is I'm very happy to have the hall it's called the Yeti Tundra hall. The hall is the one wheel portion of it. It's one wheel. So there's the handle on the one side, it kind of like angles up and then you are able to, Oh wait, I don't think we're talking about the same one. I'm talking about the handle that goes up over the middle and they can't open it. It's not that this is more, how big is it? Use your hands. The cooler itself. That's the 65. So, Oh, it's probably this. Oh, it's the size bigger than the one I have. Yeah. I can pull it up. Are you one of those guys? That's like, yeah, I'll bring my Yeti whenever he goes somewhere so that people know you have a Yeti. You know, I've seen, I've been to the Getty headquarters in Austin. I've seen people. It's like rave about their Yetis. So I was expecting, you know, you just put a bag of ice, you put a warm 12 pack in there and it's just going to keep the ice forever. And my first few experiences with it, I was actually really disappointed. Cause the ice melted out pretty fucking quick. Yeah. Interesting. It's a baby. It, so like the instances that I use it, it was nine degrees outside. I left it in the sun. I put like beer that was borderline hot and with not enough ice. The thing is good at insulating. So if you put something that's hot in, it'll insulate the hot thing. And if you don't have enough ice in there, it's just gonna, it's going to get to an equilibrium pretty quickly. So they do like, they have like a whole fucking set of instructions to actually maximize how to use this thing. Like they want you to pre-cool it. They say that you should put a bag of ice in there first and like actually get the inside space cold and then put your. Wow. Belongings in there. Like no one goes through that length, unless like, you're actually, you know, you're hunting or you're using it for something where like, if a parish is a really bad situation. Um, but yeah, I did learn that, you know, it is still just a cooler, like it's not, it's not fucking magical, but if you do everything right, yeah. You'll keep ice in there. Even if it's hot outside for like three or four days. It's pretty fucking cool. Yeah. I got mine. Like they're expensive. So I don't know about validating the price, but I got mine because. REI had seen a picture when I was on the PCT in 2017 of my legs, just like in, in some water, it was like those shittiest Poe picture I posted, it was just my feet. It's in water, but my toes were bare. So maybe, you know, you never know about who passage, Nate's probably the same person reaching out or like, Hey, can we have permission to use this photo in exchange? We'll give you a $300 REI gift card. And I was like, my least liked photo on Instagram. Yeah, sure. Um, I never saw it in any sort of ads, so I don't think they actually ever used it damn, but I was like, I don't know what to get with this. I guess I'll get a Yeti. And so I got it. Cause I was like, I don't know what else I would ever, I think to buy one. And I remember I came home from work one day at my housemate had like completely transformed the freezer into like an ice freezing machine. And he was just like freezing cubes and cubes of ice trays. And like I opened the freezer and like, it was like, Not even ice in the ice trays, but it was just loose ice all over the freezer. And I was like, what is going on here? And he was like, I'm trying to make as much ice as possible. I want to put it on the Yeti and close it and see how long it goes. And like the lane thing. And he just sat in the living room for like weeks. And they were like doing science experiments on it. Cause they were fascinated. And how long did the ice keep over a week? Over a week, let me, we only opened it every now and then to like, look at it. Like you were looking at baby chicks to see if they were going to have. Yup. Yeah, it is. It is crazy. Like I was surprised when you open it for the first time is the cooler itself is huge, but there's so much of the space that it's actually just installation. Like the use of the space is way smaller than the cooler itself. It looks big. And then you put like some beers in it and you're like, shit, I need to rearrange this more smartly. That's that's the trade off. But you know, when it's. Fucking summer. That's, uh, that's a trade that you should be. I'm just going to say my gums, that of flavor. Yeah. Oh, it's bad basically right away. Um, yeah, so that's my big Yeti cooler. Uh, I'd say really good. If you've got money, it's probably worth the spend. If you're, if you don't just get like a Yeti knockoff. I see. Like, if you fish. Like if I like was one of those people that like went out on a boat, like onto the open season, like fished and needed to put my fish somewhere. So it would stay cold. Like I could see having one of those big Yeti coolers and I imagine that's where getting made they're killing. And then there's always the spillover effect. Like, so there's the long distance backpackers that buy the hyperlight mountain gear backpacks. And then there's the. Weekend warriors who use it for like, there's the Patagonia and then there's the frat Agonia right. Exactly. Exactly. So, you know, uh, yeah, I probably wouldn't buy one. I probably wouldn't either, but Hey, we both have one now. Yeah. Cheers. Kara views. A mailbag this first one. I'll let you take Kelly Hall. Okay. Deep in the heart. Emoji of Texas. Well, East of the heart. Hey guys, I've been binge listening to the podcasts at work, obviously working very hard at, for weeks. And it's been an inspiration while biting my time before Texas is out of this heat. That rivals hell and camping is not like sitting in a sauna all night. I am fairly new to backpacking and appreciate the great content interviews and reviews on y'alls podcast. Plus the bantering is pretty entertaining and I find myself laughing often out loud as a wife and mother of three boys. I consider myself a weekend warrior for now. My longterm goals are to hike the PCT P N T and walk the entire trail of tears with my husband parentheses. I'll let him know about that at some point. But for now it's the L S H T. It's all we got in the East, in East, Texas. Oh, that's the loan. Yep. That's our next trail. Or maybe a future trail, hashtag gossamer gear. Um, it's all we got in East Texas, but it's beautiful in its own way. I feel like that's what people say about their kids when their kids aren't cute. Yeah. If you don't, if you don't think your kid's cute, then your kids are going to have a tough time. Are you going to admit if your kid's not cute? Are you going to be one of those people that it's like, it's beautiful. My wife looks like Jennifer Aniston, even as he gets a lot of me, it does look pretty good kids going to be beautiful and it's not going to be because of you. Um, y'alls podcast has helped me get through these crazy times all while keeping the backpacking hiker stoke alive, and I greatly appreciate it. Anyway, keep up the great work. I look forward to new episodes. Kelly all peace sign. Thanks. P S Oh, wait. There's a PS. PS. Y'all should check this guy out. That's the daily guy we messaged, right? No, it was different. Oh, he seems legit. Plus you hiked across Texas and hit like all the state parks in the process, which we have a lot of, like to hear an interview of him today mentioned he started all this at the age of 72, a shout out to David Owen, Roberts, who you might hear on a future show I to find him first. Yeah. I don't know. Remember this email, so I'll have to follow up with it. Uh, this next one is from switches. Somehow it has my email address, but says from switches anyways, sex emailing fan mail to us. I finally have a poop story. I'm a truth through hiker now. Right? Alright. Here it is. I completed my first through hike that is over 80 miles this summer with my SIS on the Colorado trail. I've been. I'm confused. That is over 80 miles. Got it. His previous hikes were all under 80 miles. Been dreaming of the CT for over three years and put so much time to research shakedown hikes. Sort of the PV or came up and dialing in my gear. In addition, I work at REI and listened to BPR, which means I know how to through hike, right. I felt super prepared and confident when we found ourselves at Waterton Canyon, beginning our Trek South, my sister and I got to our first campsite near South Platte river hangout with other through hikers and the infamous nosy facts. Does that ring any bells? I think it's literally just a Fox that's dipping around their stuff. I don't think they called it the intimacy. There's always like a, there's always like a Fox it's like snow around. I would assume I've never had one of those, but yeah, I don't recall any infamous nosy faxes, but when a huge gust of wind comes out of nowhere and flattens my tent and breaks a pole on my sister's tent, 20 minutes later, I went down to the river to wash up and I was. As I was washing my face with river water. I take a step back in a moment of pure bliss. Finally, on the CT and clean cold Colorado river water on my skin. I stepped on my glasses. I think that's a, uh, There's a scene in the Twilight zone where a guy, all he wants to do is just read his book. Yeah. He wants to read the books and he's in that like world where it's just stacks and stacks of books, apocalypse that kills everybody. He's like, I don't get how this is the Twilight zone, because like, this is heaven for me. And then he turns around and steps on his glasses. And you just see like the cameras zoom out. Yeah. It was a great episode. Uh, we're not off to a great start in the morning. We wake up early and start the dry and hot segment two. I get my number two business done first poop on the trail. That is always a pretty exciting moment. You're first when you break the seal, uh, the first time terrifying. Well, I don't think this was his first outdoor group ever, but like the first one on the trail, I dunno. Oh my God. Yeah. I was like running for it. I was like granting for it. I was like, this is going to be so good. Yeah. You've got some poop stories, which I can't wait to get to for the episode. And I was feeling confident again with last night's events behind us, I was feeling great. I remember thinking how awesome it was to be literally living my dream. Looking around at the mountains and just being overwhelmingly happy and content. At this moment, I felt a fart coming on, having just pooped and being back to feeling confident. I did something that I could never take back. I farted, but it was not a fart. I kept walking for about another minute and complete. Now I've done it before. We're like, You fart and you're not sure it's like a coin flip and the way that you figure it out is like you slap your shorts against your butt to like, see if it's a way that's to like, test, to see if it's wet. Like if it sticks and it's like, you get that cool. Unsure. Oh yeah. I've had many of those moments. There've been a lot of times you don't feel it until you slap it and it sticks. There are, there have been legit moments where I'm like, I definitely just shoot myself and then I slap it and there's no poo and there've been other moments where I'm like, I might've shot myself. This happens to you way too frequently. Yeah, there was no way. I just shit, my pants on the first morning. And I'm the dry section in hundreds and hundreds of miles, but I know deep in my shorts, there was wet shit, lighting my underwear. I cleaned up as fast as I could. As I knew another through hiker was somewhere behind me and ended up buying a day system. The next time I had service, I failed BPR. If I've learned anything from you it's to never, ever trust a fart. That's very true. Yeah. I hope this makes you feel good. It does. But when I feel finally accepted the inevitable shift uation I immediately thought of Badger saying never trust a fart. I mean, we did warn you, uh, Ryan, I won't reveal your last name cause he didn't include it in your email, but not as from Brian A. Case, which is, and that was a wonderful purpose story. I star reviews another man. We're poop heavy today. Do you put these in here? Does lease 100% Elise. Wow. She's on your side with the poop. Oh yeah. Um, this one's by nickname one, two eight four nine two Oh two. It's probably a sick social security number. I pooped out on public Hill one time. I swear every time I'm questioning whether my family and I should proceed with something, anxiety, inducing, parentheses trip, financial moves slash prestigious, et cetera. I come across an episode that makes me realize we shouldn't hold back from pursuing our dreams. We are putting people in debt. Yeah. I don't know if taking advice from backpack. Radio is a wise decision. It's not, but we haven't gone bankrupt or been sent to collections yet. So I suppose it's a good thing. Anyway, keep up the good work. I love listening while I work from my desk and living vicariously through this podcast, it's provided me with ideas and inspiration for future endeavors. Also one time in college Prince sees this is how every awesome story starts. Uh, me and some friends were on our way to the bar. This walk included a traffic attrac up Jeff Hill. Hopefully there's some Ohio university alum listeners. I was halfway up when I was unexpectedly hit with a case of the runs. And my only choice was to poop my pants or poop in the woods. So I did the ladder and tried to wipe wood leaves didn't work. And I was forced in quotes to leave poopy undies in the bathroom at the bar. Good news is I didn't have to go home. Where'd you go? I think he just hung out at the bar with some poopy shorts, but he left his undies in the bath. There's some honest and a question I answer. You're gonna have to fill in some of those poop gaps for us. Uh, yeah, I'm not gonna name nickname, social security number. Uh, this next one is from do Beto. Five star review question. I love these. If you have a question for us, this is the way to get your question right faster. Listen to back to radio for excellent interviews. And to hear the answer to five star review questions, if a backpack or pantry or other meal package indicates it contains two and a half servings. How many through hiker meals would that translate to John's is trying to remind his answers are going to be very different. Started the hike, pre hiker hunger. That's two dinners, uh, anywhere, middle towards the end of the hike. Anytime after a hiker, hunger has hit. That is one dinner. Yeah, one container. Yeah. If it is one in one bag and sealed, it is one man. So here's my primary issue is even if I'm full halfway through, which has happened a lot of times, once you hydrate it, that becomes very heavy. You can't discard it, that your options for getting rid of it are to either carry out this heavy meal that tastes delicious or to consume it. I'm a frequent. Pawn it off on other people in the moment type of person where it's like, not, Hey, carry my trash or carry this leftovers. It's like, I can't finish my dinner. Who here can finish it. And there's usually someone hungrier than me around who will volunteer. Yeah. But like, I get really worried, like when it was just me and easy hiking together, he would not want to finish my food for me. Which is understandable, but like, I would get worried when I'd make dinner. Cause I was like, what if I can't finish this? And then I have to find somewhere to put it and then I feel go a certain distance away and then I have to bury it and like, it would just give me anxiety. Um, but once you have hiker hungry, you're going to eat a bit. I pack her pantry in one setting for sure. Yeah. Uh, for as much as I talk about food on the show, I'm actually not that hungry of a person. And there are times where like I'm pointing off my food to other people in the group. Unfortunately, generally speaking guys will just eat until there's no more food left, so someone will help me out. But yeah, I'm not always that guy. Okay. A shout out to back country.com. If you're in the market for some new hiking gear, use the link we include at the top of the show that's backpack or back country.com/backpack or radio, and our coupon code, which is backpacker radio 15. Right. Backpacker 15. Fuck. You know that? Hold on. Talk about backend. Yeah, but also after you use our code, I want to say it's backpacker 15, backpacker 15. Yeah. You just go to backpacker 15 for 15% off@backcountry.com. Correct. New customers. You want to give them the, uh, the rundown on what new customers are member email address. Wink wink. Oh yes. If you are using our code on back country.com, um, send them a message, send them a message, send us a message. What do we want them to do? So when you're using our coupon code and you already have an account@backcountry.com create a new email address so you can score 15% off with our code. Oh, okay. Yeah. Cause it's for new people. Yeah. Um, and then also. Uh, if you send us a picture or a screenshot of you using the code, uh, we've been sending out stickers to anyone who's been doing that. We had someone recently use our code and then I followed up and like, Hey, cool, thanks for that. Send us your address and we'll get some stickers on your way. He's like, no, you probably need the money for the, I know times are hard. You can save the money and middle East just made fun of Zach. We're like, yeah, you need that two bucks, two bucks 55 cents. Stamps cheap. Uh, but no shout out to that guy who used the code and then refused our sticker, need any sort of gear in it, something that you could purchase on back country. And you could do that and take a screenshot and show it to us and use that code. It really does help this podcast continue to be able to stay. Yeah, well, and also fuck helping us help yourself save 15%. That could be a lot of money that's money that you could spend on ice cream. Like let's be real. Yeah. I don't know what the fine print is. I don't know. Like if you can get something on sale, 15% off, but give it a shot. What do you have to lose? It's a crazy world out there. And like, you could use that 15% of ice cream. There you go. Thank you to our Chuck Norris award winners on Patrion. That is Andrew Austin McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Darnell L Paul Paquin, Sealy S Lebanon Sawyer products, and Thomas bolder. You can follow us on social at backpacker radio and Instagram at backpacker pod on Twitter, facebook.com/backpacker radio. Oh, we have to do a . We do whatever our code word is for free. Oh yeah. Uh, Instagram old faithful. Yeah on Instagram comment on this episode, uh, on this episodes, promo art comment, um, your price that you'd pay for a foot. Hmm. I like that a lot. Yeah. And what angle you'd want it from? And do you have to indicate who's feet? You'd rather buy, I want to at least get one person out of this. Yeah. Yeah. Um, whose feet do you want? How much would you pay for a photo? Angle angle. Do you want it out? Yeah, so like for instance, Zach's feet are very sexy and I need to see Zach's feet. I would pay $10,000 for the next page randomizer to pick the winner. Like, it's not like we're putting this into a generator and picking a username. Alyssa's literally reading all these comments and pigging the ones that she laughs at the most. So just like appeal to her, like, you know, know your audience. Pander to release to your demographic. Yeah. I will give a shout out to the Facebook comment people, or maybe if this was buttering her up, they know they knew that you're really going to use your photos are so good. We love you. You're so sexy. People are smart. They pick up. Yes, Sean's on social media. Find me on Instagram at Juliana underscore Chauncey. Um, I'll plug the YouTube cause I'm finally posting videos. Uh, Juliana Chauncey. And most importantly, you can buy my book, hiking from home, a long distance. Hiking guide for family and friends on Amazon. John's had two cocktails tonight, which is usually you said it about that ebook. Subtitles are long, you know, like I actually don't know this subtitle for Appalachian trails, although it might affect you to read it off your own book. I wrote that eight years ago, it's a psychological and emotional guide to successfully through. Can the eighties, apparently I do know a subtitle suck. I'm Zach, Zach and I can't log into my Instagram. Yeah. Oh, I did a demonstration Instagram won't let me out. I've been trying to log out. I'm I'm in an antisocial media mood of late and Instagram. Won't let me do that. But if you want to see me struggle against my Instagram, it's at zero Davis. Anyway, anyways, I said, thanks so much for listening. Happy hiking. 

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, Badger is joined by Anne Baker.  In addition to being an experienced long distance backpacker and gear nerd, Anne has a PhD, is a licensed therapist, scientist, and someone who has done a good deal of research on post trail depression.  Anne breaks down precisely what is happening when someone experiences post trail depression and offers some tips for how to avoid it or at least lessen its impact. Anne also details what 2020 NOGO thru-hikers went through this year and how their grief was tied to a loss of identity.  I found the subject matter of today's show super interesting, and I think you will too. We close out the show with a triple crown of trails we have not yet hiked, highlight some standout day hikes in the Salt Lake City area, and give Martin his much deserved 15 seconds of fame. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: PoopStory for 15% off your entire cart at gossamergear.com.  Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. [divider] The Trek's Pledge to Do Better BACKPACKER RADIO MERCH Interview with Dr.Anne Baker Instagram: ennakrek Anne's articles for The Trek  QOTD: What small thing is irrationally annoying to you?  Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!  [divider] 00:04:49 - QOTD: What small thing is irrationally annoying to you?  00:06:45 - Pitch a Podcast! 00:07:00 - Intro to Anne Baker 00:07:40 - Why are you here?  00:08:15 - Can you tell us about your educational and professional background?  00:10:19 - Can you talk about the intersection of pain and emotion? 00:11:30 - Can you alter your perception of pain by changing your vocabulary around it?  00:13:52 - Advice for someone with chronic lyme disease dealing with pain?  00:16:29 - Will you walk us through the process of getting a PhD.?  00:20:10 - Will you walk us through your backpacking resume?  00:24:54 - Thoughts on section hiking?  00:29:15 - Do you struggle to make a trail family when section hiking?  00:30:49 - What is your go-to big 5 (for gear)?  00:34:24 - Anything in the gear pipeline we should be excited about? 00:36:19 - Can you tell us about Post-Trail Depression and walk us through your approach to the project you did on it?  00:38:15 - Can you talk about the identity aspect of post-trail depression? 00:39:40 - Did you ask how people felt about their lives before the trail? 00:40:00 - What kind of habits can you maintain to keep your trail self alive?  00:44:43 - Will you walk us through your coined acronym “SPACE”? 00:46:00 - How would someone experience these on trail?  01:00:08 - So a history of mental health issues didn’t translate to being more likely to suffer from post-trail depression? 01:01:58 - How does a person’s job play into their post-trail depression?  01:05:26 - Do you have any tips to mitigate post-trail depression?  01:08:51 - How did the pandemic influence your second article about post-trail depression (specifically how deciding whether or not to hike during the pandemic affected people)? 01:10:57 - Why don’t you like labels of mental illness?  01:14:19 - What aspects of grief show up a lot for people who did not get to thru-hike? 01:14:48 - What common bargaining tactics showed up? 01:15:51 - Do you have any other major takeaways from your interviews with thru-hikers?  01:17:43 - Can you talk a little bit about what was happening on social media in regards to whether or not people should thru-hike this year?  01:20:04 - Have you noticed any difference in the hiking community now vs. when you were interviewing people in March and April?  01:22:02 - Do you have any advice for someone who is experiencing grief due to not being able to thru-hike?  01:25:16 - Do you have advice for people who are struggling specifically during COVID, when typical resources are not available to us? 01:27:20 - Do you meditate?  01:28:17 - Anything else you want to touch on? 01:29:02 - Any backpacking or outdoor adventures coming up?  01:30:08 - Where should people go to see your stuff? Anne’s articles for the trek can be found here.   SEGMENTS Best Day, Weekend, and Long-Distance Hikes in Wyoming and Utah Triple Crown of Trails We Haven’t Hiked Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews  [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Paul Packman Sealy, Jason Lawrence, Janelle L., Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by Backcountry.com, we are joined by Mac of Halfwayanywhere.com. Mac gives us the full tour through his short, but very dense adventuring career, including his 1 and a half PCT thru-hikes, his time in Japan, his multiple trips through the Himalayas, bikepacking across Australia, and the list goes on and on. We touch on why the Arizona Trail is game off for the remainder of 2020, a one minute gear review, a point counter point on quilts vs. sleeping bags, and our last Backcountry Matchmaking for a hot minute.     \ Greenbelly discount code: Use code: Trek2020 for 10% off sitewide at greenbelly.co. Backcountry.com discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. [divider] Please fill out this survey if you’d like to help BPR! The Trek's Pledge to Do Better BACKPACKER RADIO MERCH Interview with Mac from Halfway Anywhere HalfwayAnywhere.com @HalfwayAnywhere on Instagram  QOTD: What was your favorite (or weirdest) celebrity encounter?  Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!  [divider] 00:07:49 - Take our survey, please! 00:09:25 - Applications for Vlogging and Blogging for The Trek in 2021 are open!  00:09:56 - Intro to Mac from HalfwayAnywhere.com 00:11:00 - Do you hate the word moist?  00:11:55 - What is your backpacking/adventuring background?  00:12:55 - Do you remember where you discovered the PCT? 00:13:25 - Did you know you might be in over your head starting the PCT?  00:14:00 - When did the website (Halfway Anywhere) start?  00:17:16 - What kind of content were you putting out on your blog?  00:18:30 - Do you think it was an advantage going into your hike without prior research (when it came to writing)? 00:20:02 - Stand out moments from your PCT hike?  00:22:26 - What were the biggest differences you noticed between the PCT your first time and when you did it recently?  00:26:09 - Were you using paper maps or Half Mile?  00:27:18 - How did your most recent PCT hike go?  00:28:00 - Which version of the Sierra do you like better (snow or no snow)?  00:28:41 - Are the views better with or without the snow?  00:29:24 - What came after your 2013 PCT hike?  00:32:52- How did you find your job in Japan?  00:33:21 - What do you do for fun in Japan?  00:34:31 - How did you find hikes in Japan? 00:37:44 - How long were you in Japan? What came next?  00:40:00 - You hiked to Everest Base Camp? 00:40:34 - What did you learn about the altitude on the first trip?  00:42:16 - Did you do Whitney on the PCT ‘13?  00:43:55 - What’s the difference in the attire for different elevations?  00:45:06 - Do you have Sherpas/a guide in the Himalaya? 00:46:00 - Is there a language barrier in Nepal? 00:47:10 - Are there ethical reasons for sourcing Sherpas?  00:50:00 - Should you hire a guide for EBC?  00:51:00 - Can you tell us about the Three Passes Trek? 00:54:24 - What is the distance of the Three Passes Trek and how long did it take you?  00:58:00 - How often were you sleeping inside?  01:00:00 - What do you pay per night/day on an Everest Base Camp or Three Pass Trek loop? 01:01:00 - How is it navigating transportation? 01:02:45 - Do you have a standout Nepalese  meal?  01:04:32 - Tell us about your Australia bikepacking trip! 01:05:30 - Where did you get water?  01:08:22 - Did you arrive with your bikepacking setup or did you buy it there?  01:09:25 - How long did the whole bike trip take you? 01:10:21 - Do you have any words of wisdom when it comes to fiscal responsibility? 01:11:44 - What was it like working in a bar in Australia?  01:14:30 - What did you do in 2017? 01:15:30 - What kind of hiking is in Tasmania?  01:17:00 - How did you choose Tasmania?  01:18:00 - How long are the hikes you are doing in Tasmania?  01:18:57 - What were the Rio Olympics like?  01:19:22 - How many languages do you speak?  01:20:05 - Were you doing this with friends?  01:20:36 - Are you doing most of your adventures solo?  01:21:09 - Has it been an adjustment to be in a relationship? 01:21:55 - How old are you?  01:21:14 - Is your fire for adventure still as strong as ever? 01:22:41 - How does your relationship work with adventures?  01:24:32 - Starting the CDT 01:25:55 - How would you compare the San Juans in 2017 to the Sierra in 2013?  01:30:42 - Comparison of the PCT to the CDT?  01:32:36 - Fuck, Marry, Kill: Sierra, Winds, Himalayas?  01:36:45 - Should you hike the PCT or the CDT? 01:38:48 - Do you ever get burnt out from traveling?  01:39:42 - What did you do next?  01:40:44 - How much time do you dedicate to the website amidst traveling?  01:43:10 - So you went back to Nepal?  01:43:38 - Why was the Annapurna Circuit your least favorite trek in Nepal?  01:46:14 - What was after the Annapurna Circuit?  01:47:54 - How long did Island Peak take?  01:49:10 - Do you feel safe in Nepal?  01:50:36 - Do you have more Nepal treks on your list?  01:52:05 - Tell us about the Japanese Alps? 01:54:05 - Why don’t you want to hike Mt.Fuji?  01:55:49 - Does the traverse of the Japanese Alps involve route finding?  01:56:50 - Is the ridgeline hiking there technical at all?  01:57:30 - And you sprinkled in the Camino De Santiago? 01:58:21 - Do you still enjoy that style of adventure?  01:59:06 - Do you have a stats background?  02:00:13 - What was your track before the Appalachian Trail?  02:02:08 - What’s in the future for Mac?  02:02:56 - Where did you get the trail name Mac?  02:05:00 - Where should people find your stuff?  HalfwayAnywhere.com @HalfwayAnywhere on Instagram    SEGMENTS Arizona Trail Association Discourages 2020 SOBO AZT Thru-Hikes and Thru-Rides Mail Bag / 5 Star Review Hybrid Section    1- Minute Gear Reviews Zach: Kataydyn Befree Filter Chaunce: Custom Thrupack   Point/Counterpoint: Quilts vs. Sleeping Bags   Backcountry Matchmaking  Molly Rhoads (Sharktooth) | insta: @mollieamazing Greg (My Best Friend) | insta: @mybestfriendatx Jordan Reynolds (Outdoor Rebel) | insta: @outdoorebel  [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Paul Packman Sealy, Jason Lawrence, Janelle L., Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Backcountry.com, we are joined by Delia D'ambra.  Delia is a full-time investigative journalist and the host of Park Predators, a podcast that details some of the most horrific murders that have taken place in national parks.  Needless to say, maybe don't let your kids listen to this one.   We cover the triple crown of Adam Sandler movies, do another round of one minute gear reviews, a point / counterpoint on inflatable vs closed cell foam sleeping pads, and learn about diarrhea inducing gummy bears.     Greenbelly discount code: Use code: Trek2020 for 10% off sitewide at greenbelly.co. Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Please fill out this survey if you’d like to help BPR! The Trek's Pledge to Do Better BACKPACKER RADIO MERCH Interview with Delia D'Ambra Find Park Predators wherever you listen to podcasts @DeliaDambraTV on Twitter @deliamdambraw on Instagram  @audiochuck on instagram and twitter QOTD: What is your least popular or most controversial opinion? Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!  [divider] 00:04:50 - QOTD: What is your least popular or most controversial opinion? 00:08:46 - Please fill out this 45 second survey! 00:09:17 - New BPR shirts!   00:11:00 - Intro to Delia D’Ambra! 00:11:24 - How did you get involved with investigative journalism? 00:12:26 - How do you decide what stories to tackle? 00:13:45 - When you do episodes for podcasts like Park Predators, how do you go about doing the research for it? 00:15:50 - Have any of your episodes led to new clues?  00:17:40 - Is Adnan Syed guilty?  00:18:50 - Can you talk about the differences between mediums (news vs. podcast vs. broadcast)?00:20:40 - How did you decide to focus your research on National Parks?  00:23:01 - Did you find there was a disproportionate amount of murders in National Parks?  00:24:50 - Does doing this murder research freak you out?  00:26:57 - How do you keep an eye out for murderers in the backcountry? 00:29:50 - Do you hear stories from people who heed your advice?  00:31:00 - Can you give us a summary of the first episode of Park Predators?  00:33:50 - What was Gary Michale Hilton’s victimology?  00:35:30 - Are there things that make you feel empathy for the killers? Is there a theme/commonality to the way they operate? 00:37:29 - Can you give us a taste of episode 3?  00:40:48 - Chaunce’s brush with death  00:41:25 - What do you do if you see someone who looks very suspicious?  00:43:12 - Can you talk about episode 4?  00:48:53 - Do you think going through childhood trauma may have affected him becoming a killer? 00:49:20 - What kind of detail do you go into about the specific murders on Park Predators?  00:50:50 - Can you give us an example of how the women in Yosemite were murdered?  00:53:17 - Did any of these victims have or use mace?  00:53:53 - Can you tell us another story? 00:55:38 - Do these stories ever impact your personal life? Do you ever lose sleep? 00:57:10 - Do you ever worry about the killers reaching out? 00:58:25 - Did Epstein kill himself?  00:58:50 - Is there a season two?  00:59:50 - Find Park Predators wherever you get your podcasts!   Segments Trek Propaganda  Our Favorite Three-Ingredient Backpacking Meals by Maggie Slepian  Triple Crown of Adam Sandler Movies  Movie Club: Don’t Mess with the Zohan  1-Minute Gear Reviews Chaunce: Cotopaxi Windbreaker—POCKETS! Zach: Anker Powercore with dual-input port (charges the battery twice as fast)  Point - Counterpoint: Inflatable sleeping pad vs. closed-cell foam pads  Pupdate! Mail Bag  5-Star Review  Comment ________ to win a sticker! Amazon Reviews for Sugar-Free Haribo Gummy Bears (Poop Stuff) [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Paul Packman Sealy, Jason Lawrence, Janelle L., Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined yet again by famed Trail Angel, triple crowner, and author, Barney Scout Mann.  This convo focuses largely on Scout's new book, "Journeys North", Scout's beautiful account of his and Frodo's 2007 PCT thru-hike.  We learn what went into this immense research project, how he and Frodo fended off a bear with a two-part harmony, and we're blessed with a short reading from the book. We have another one-minute gear review, introduce a new segment- point / counter point, a triple crown of summer foods, and once again start to lose our minds at the show's close.  This one is a full boat. \ [divider] Listen Download this episode. [divider] Zpacks discount code:Use code: HEXAMIDBPR for $25 discount at Zpacks.com Greenbelly discount code: Use code: Trek2020 for 10% off sitewide at greenbelly.co. [divider] Apply to be The Trek's Full-Time Content + Marketing Specialist The Trek's Pledge to Do Better BACKPACKER RADIO MERCH Interview with Scout (Barney  Mann) Listen to Scout’s previous episode here.  Order his book here! QOTD: You get one wish but 70% of the population also gets what you wish for—what is your wish? Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!  [divider] 00:04:30 - QOTD:  You get one wish but 70% of the population also gets what you wish for—what is your wish? 00:08:33 - Can you give us an intro into how you got started with backpacking?  00:10:19 - Can you tell us the story of doing the PCT?  00:12:19 - Do you regret going SOBO on the AT? 00:14:30 - Scout’s involvement in the GAOA (Great American Outdoors Act)  00:15:30 - What do your neighbors think about the hikers you host?  00:16:30 - Scout and Frodo’s nightly after-dinner talk and stream crossing safety. 00:18:30 - Can you tell us about your career (after your Boy Scout days)?  00:19:30 - Are you a lawyer because you’re a good writer or are you a good writer because you’re a lawyer? 00:20:05 - What kind of lawyer were you? 00:21:54 - What was Scout thinking when he was retiring?  00:22:20 - Listen to Episode 26! (Scout’s previous episode) 00:22:45 - Where did the inspiration for “Journeys North” come from?  00:27:57 - What was the research process for gathering intel on your trail family?  00:30:10 - What does it really mean when Scout asks to write about you?  00:32:15 - Scout saved a man’s life.  00:34:09 - Scout reads an excerpt from the book. 00:36:28 - Is Scout reading his audiobook?  00:39:36 - Were you anticipating a trail family being such a huge part of your hike?  00:41:48 - What is the secret to a long and happy marriage?  00:42:48 - Can you give an example of a tough time you talked about in the book?  00:47:55 - Were you shocked by what you gathered in your research and interviews of your hiking family vs. what you saw on trail?  00:54:25 - Can you share other stories that had to be cut from the book?  00:58:58 - Can we get a two-part harmony? 01:02:20 - Can you talk about Rainy Pass?  01:09:44 - Where should people go to purchase your book? Amazon helps Scout the most. 01:10:22 - Are Scout and Frodo going to host hikers in 2021?  Segments Trek Propaganda Biggest Similarities (and Differences) Between Backpacking and Bikepacking by Maggie Slepian Applications for Bloggers and Vloggers for 2021 Hot Takes for 2020 (and beyond?) 1-Minute Gear Reviews SAXX Men’s Boxer Briefs Montbell Rain Pants Send us Cinnamon Court Debates Point - Counterpoint: How you store water on the trail. Triple Crown of Summer Foods What season do deviled eggs belong to? Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews Pupdates Comment ______ to win a sticker! Backcountry Matchmaking Hayden (LLC) - @hayden.cox2@gmail.com, @haydenstuartcox Legs - @kbrookshire Tree - @jefftreezus The Gossamer Gear Crotch Pot & it’s review on The Trek [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Janelle L, Paul Packman Sealy, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jason Lawrence, Jeff LaFranier, Jeffrey Miller, Mark Snook, Mitchell, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, and Zoe Jenkins Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Today we are joined by Luke Kloberdanz, the director of philanthropy at the Ice Age Trail Alliance.  As you may have guessed, we geek out very much about all things Wisconsin, so much so, that Chaunce is convinced to make this the destination of Backpacker Radio's next road trip.  We talk about Luke's own thru-hike, the wonderful tradition that is the Wisconsin Fish Fry, the history of this trail, and why it might be the ideal trek during a pandemic. We address why Chaunce's face matches her hair, get sucked down a Taco Bell Vortex, announce a new full-time opening at The Trek, and just generally lose our minds toward the end of this episode.  I highly recommend having a PBR handy for this one.     [divider] Listen   Download this episode. [divider] Backcountry.com discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 to save 15% on your first purchase from Backcountry.com/backpackerradio Zpacks discount code:Use code: HEXAMIDBPR for $25 discount at Zpacks.com Greenbelly discount code: Use code: Trek2020 for 10% off sitewide at greenbelly.co. [divider] Apply to be The Trek's Full-Time Content + Marketing Specialist The Trek's Pledge to Do Better BACKPACKER RADIO MERCH Interview with Luke Kloberdanz from the Ice Age Trail Alliance Ice Age Trail Alliance  Contact Luke: Luke@iceagetrail.org QOTD: What color is Chaunce's face? Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!  [divider] 00:04:38 - QOTD: What color is Chaunce’s face?  00:07:38 - Can Zach say Luke’s name?  00:08:13 - How did Luke get involved with the Ice Age Trail? 00:10:06 - How long is the Ice Age Trail? Can you tell us more about it? 00:10:53 - Where does the money to purchase land for the trail come from?  00:11:41 - Why does the IAT go where it goes?  00:12:54 - Is the IAT constructed that way because of aesthetics or historical reasons?  00:16:52 - How was your thru-hike?  00:19:16 - You were the 11th person to thru-hike the IAT? 00:20:44 - What was the trail like when you hiked (single track vs. road walking)?  00:20:54 - Is there an official road walk for the portions that aren’t single track?  00:21:58 - What percentage of days could someone eat a fish fry while thru-hiking the IAT? 00:22:47 - Do you go through a lot of towns on the IAT?  00:23:33- Is there a traditional route on the IAT (west to east vs. east to west)?  00:24:25 - Was Spotted Cow a thing during your thru-hike?  00:25:10 - Can you explain the fish fry?  00:28:14 - Do you emphasize the cultural aspect of the IAT?  00:30:30 - Has Chaunce had a fried cheese curd before? 00:30:54 - Can you explain the importance of the squeakiness of a cheese curd?  00:32:45 - Backpacker Radio Merch 00:33:25 - Does the trail go through Madison? 00:34:30 - What are the campsites like on the IAT?  00:36:34 - What are the water sources like on the IAT? 00:37:56 - What is the recommended season to hike the IAT? And what is the typical pace?  00:41:08 - What’s the elevation change like on the IAT?  00:42:24 - What’s the practicality of hiking the IAT during coronavirus?  00:45:22 - How does someone get involved with the IAT?  00:46:40 - What kind of wildlife will people see on the IAT?  00:47:54 - What does someone do if they encounter a wolf?  00:49:32 - What is the traditional garnish for a Wisconsin Bloody Mary? 00:52:10 - Are there specific highlights of the IAT? Section hikes you’d recommend?  00:56:37 - The IAT is for_______? 00:59:14 - Luke@iceagetrail.org call the IATA office, etc.   SEGMENTS The Trek Propaganda : The Trek is Hiring A Full-Time Content + Marketing Specialist   Mail Bag / Backcountry Matchmaking combo  Tess Bjorgen - tess_bjorgen@hotmail.com Linda - instagram: @lindasince1987 James “Medicine Man” Marsh -  @venture_into_adventure  Yiran “Clax” - @yiranhikes  5 Star Reviews  Doug Laher’s Episode  How to Eat Vegetarian at Taco Bell and How to Eat Vegan at Taco Bell Pupdate 1 Minute Gear Reviews Chaunce: Her buff / Thermarest Mondo  Zach: Big Agnes Tiger Wall 3  Comment _______ to win a sticker! [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Janelle L, Paul Packman Sealy, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jason Lawrence, Jeff LaFranier, Jeffrey Miller, Mark Snook, Mitchell, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, and Zoe Jenkins Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Daniel White, known on trail as The Blackalachian.  We learn all about The Blackalachian's life before he became a full-time adventurer, including his days as a rapper and his time in prison, how thru-hiking was put on his map, his experiences with racism on the AT, his thru-bike of the Underground Railroad Route, His hikes of The Great Outdoors Challenge in Scotland and Camino del Norte in Spain, and what the future has in store for him.  This conversation is both heavy and hilarious, informative and fun; we hope you enjoy it as much as we did. We wrap up the show with the Triple Crown of Summer Wins, we learn what a thunderbox is, a fan indulges my undying love for the 90s Bulls, and we have a Backcountry Matchmaking.  This one has it all.   [divider] Backcountry.com discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 to save 15% on your first purchase from Backcountry.com/backpackerradio Zpacks discount code:Use code: HEXAMIDBPR for $25 discount at Zpacks.com [divider] The Trek's Pledge to Do Better BACKPACKER RADIO MERCH Interview with Daniel White "The Blackalachian" YouTube Instagram QOTD: Is wearing a t-shirt with your podcast’s name on it the same as being in a band and wearing your own band t-shirt? Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!  [divider]  00:03:23 – QOTD: Is wearing a t-shirt with your podcast’s name on it the same as being in a band and wearing your own band t-shirt? 00:07:10 – What was life like for the Blackalachian before he was the Blackalachian? 00:08:33 – Can you tell us about your rapping career? Soundcloud: Logo704 00:09:54 – Can you tell us what prison was like? 00:11:00 – Any overlaps between prison and thru-hiking? 00:11:50 – Did prison push you toward backpacking? 00:13:40 – Thoughts on your boss that said not to follow your dreams? 00:14:50 –  Since you made the decision to thru-hike so quickly, did you have the gear you needed to start the AT? 00:17:17 – How has your gear evolved since then? 00:17:58 – where was the Blackalachian inspired? 00:20:20 – Did you get shakedowns? 00:20:45 – Did you plan your resupplies around fishing? 00:21:30 – Can you give us fishing tips? 00:21:53 – Were you YouTubing your thru-hike from the get-go? 00:23:08 - Have you gotten feedback from other Black hikers who were inspired by you? 00:23:27 – What are the more common questions and feedback that you get? 00:24:00 – Were you nervous about smaller towns in the Appalachians? 00:24:40 – What is the reality of being on trail like vs. your expectations? 00:26:00 – What were your expectations of racism on trail? What was it like on trail? 00:28:09 – Were towns better or worse than thru-hikers? 00:29:00 – Have you ever encountered someone and changed their perception? 00:30:03 – Can you give us an example of microagressions? 00:33:07 – Can you tell us how you came to your motto of “love and light”? 00:37:05 - Do you have any specific highlights from your AT hike? 00:39:30 – Flipping on the AT? 00:40:13 – Did you get that “Rocky Mountain” feeling in the Presidentials? 00:40:48 – Have you considered the PCT? 00:42:50 – Tell us about the Underground Railroad Bike Route! 00:46:30 – Could you stay in the same places people did when they were on the Underground Railroad? 00:47:07 – Does the UGRR have anything like Guthook? 00:47:49 – Did you see any other thru-bikers? Did you YouTube this journey? 00:49:37 – Can you compare thru-hiking to thru-biking? 00:51:05 – How long did it take to thru-bike the UGRR? 00:51:25 – Did you take special precautions to protect your bike? 00:52:19 – Were you able to leverage your YouTube channel to get sponsorships? 00:53:21 – What was your “bike first aid kit”? 00:54:44 – How long does it take for your ass to adjust to biking for that long? 00:56:35 – Any advice for someone who has never bike packed before? 00:59:41 – Tell us about The Great Outdoors Challenge! 01:01:00 – How was your reception in Scotland vs. the Appalachians? 01:02:29 – Did you see a lot of gingers? 01:02:40 – Tell us about the pub scene! 01:03:09 – How long were you in Scotland? 01:04:49 – If you had to pick between adventurer and thru-hiker what would it be? 01:08:39 – Can you give us some Camino Norte highlights? 01:11:20 – Is it true that your admission to hostels covers wine as well? 01:11:46 – Did you do the Camino solo? 01:12:31 – Preference for hiking in the US vs. internationally? 01:13:40 – How does walking through places with a lot of history impact you or your hike? 01:15:00 – What hikes are next on your radar? 01:18:20 – Can you tell us about the Groundskeepers program? 01:20:15 – Pointers on getting sponsorships? 01:21:40 – Paying for fathers to get pedicures?  01:23:59 - Differentiating between content for YouTube and Instagram?  01:25:55 - Can you talk about how recent shifts have affected you? Any advice for thru-hikers? 01:28:37 - Your pants?  01:31:10 - When are you going to buy a bunch of land and start a commune?  01:33:33 - Best Poke Stop on the AT? 01:34:41 - Favorite food on trail? What will you never eat again?  01:35:43 - How often do people reach out from the internet to meet up? 01:37:33 - Parting words?  Segments The Trek Propaganda  "Senate Passes Great American Outdoors Act" by Maggie Slepian  Triple Crown of Summer Wins Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews  Backcountry Matchmaking  Jessika “Taps” | @tapsandtrail Eric “Rocketman” | @rustyrushton @rocketman_pct_2019 Sierra “Sudsie” | @sudsie.p New Shirts? Here are the old ones.  What segments do you like?  [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Janelle L, Paul Packman Sealy, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jason Lawrence, Jeff LaFranier, Jeffrey Miller, Mark Snook, Mitchell, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, and Zoe Jenkins Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, Elise and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek, Chaunce  and Elise on YouTube.

In today's episode -we are back to recording in person(!)- and joined by Jamey Mossengren, also known as The Unicycling Unicorn.  Jamey traded in his cushy 9-5 job to pursue the glamorous lifestyle of a street performer, and hasn't looked back since.  Not only does Jamey make a living by putting on unicycle shows, he's also unicycled both the Colorado Trail and Arizona Trail!   We talk about these very unique trips, his thru-hikes of the AT and Camino del Norte, and what goes into being a successful street performer- for which, we got a personal show after the interview. We also talk about the return of AT thru-hikes in 2020 (maybe), we introduce a new segment- Hiker's Horoscopes, and close out the show with another edition of Backcountry Matchmaking.  [divider] Backcountry.com discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 to save 15% on your first purchase from Backcountry.com/backpackerradio Zpacks discount code:Use code: HEXAMIDBPR for $25 discount at Zpacks.com [divider] The Trek's Pledge to Do Better BACKPACKER RADIO MERCH Interview with Jamey Mossengren "The Unicycling Unicorn Website Instagram Twitter Youtube QOTD: How are your summer backpacking plans shaping up? Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!  The Trek's store [divider] 00:00:00 – Intro to Jamey Mossengren – The Unicycling Unicorn 00:04:00 – Backpacker Radio is back in person and it is _________ 00:06:00 – QOTD: How are your summer backpacking plans shaping up? 00:10:00 – Jamey, the Unicycling Unicorn 00:10:31 – Do you know how many people make a living on a unicycle? 00:12:20 – Did competing with your brother motivate you to be better at unicycling? 00:12:40 – How did you make unicycling a career? 00:15:00 – What goes into the performing side of a street performance? 00:15:45 – Examples of what does and doesn’t work in street performing? 00:16:20 – Do you do a lot of crowd work? 00:16:48 – Have you thought about doing a show at protests? 00:17:40 – Did you pick other performer’s brains to see what they were doing? 00:18:17 – Do you write out sets? 00:18:38 – What encompasses/started the Unicorn? 00:19:45 – What are the costume pieces of the Unicycling Unicorn? 00:20:44 – What was your first long outdoors feat? 00:21:35 – How do you mountain unicycle the Colorado Trail?? 00:22:21 – Do you ride or walk up big climbs? 00:23:26 – Backpacker Radio crossed paths with Jamey Mossengren? 00:24:51 – How long did it take to mountain unicycle the Colorado Trail? 00:25:00 – How much did your gear weigh? 00:25:40 – Did you get a lot of media attention for the hike? 00:26:00 – Did the backcountry give you good ideas for your act? 00:26:28 – What was your next trail? 00:28:18 – Did you have any nasty falls? 00:29:40 – How does the comfort of a unicycle compare to a bike? 00:30:25 – Are there any standard unicycle issues? 00:30:50 – How did you like hiking (on the SHT) compared to unicycling? 00:31:34 – How long is the Superior Hiking Trail? 00:32:00 – how did you pick the Superior Hiking Trail? 00:33:41 – What’s next? Arizona Trial on a unicycle? 00:34:04 – Where do you meet other unicyclists to thru-unicycle the Arizona Trail? 00:35:00 – What is it like unicycling in a group? 00:35:30 – Differences between unicycling the Colorado and Arizona Trail? 00:36:00 – How much does your unicycle weigh? 00:40:00 – Does your performance experience help when trespassing? 00:41:00 – What is the argument for a unicycle being considered a pedestrian? 00:42:05 – What’s next? Appalachian Trail? 00:42:45 – Why another hiking trail and not a unicycling trail? 00:44:30 – Any AT highlights? 00:48:15 – What about lowlights? 00:51:23 – Shitting? 00:53:25 – Burned down bar? 00:56:23 – Hiker meet up at a Cracker Barrel? 00:58:30 – Sex on the Camino del Norte? 00:59:20 – Any good trail sex stories? 01:01:00 – Untapped 5,000 beers? 01:03:01 – Your next muni-pack? 01:04:05 – Preparation for the Oregon Timber Trail? 01:05:30 – In which direction of the PCT is the OTT? 01:08:40 – Are you less afraid of rattlesnakes on a unicycle? 01:09:45 – How long have you been doing van life? 01:10:14 – Tell us about doing your performances in different continents? 01:11:11 – You perform in Australia as well? 01:11:44 – Do you build the vans out yourself? 01:12:25 – Have you thought about doing stuff on Tik Tok? 01:16:30 – Do you think you could chug a beer while riding your unicycle and juggling two other beers? 01:17:08- Do you ever aspire to snag unicycling records? 01:18:25 – Have you ever unicycled on a tight rope? 01:19:14 – What are the fan favorite tricks? 01:21:11 – Unicycling Unicorn – he’s single, find him on the socials   Segments The Trek Propaganda! ATC is likely to recommend AT thru-hikes soon, by Hugh Owen CDTC article Virtually Hiking the AT: Hitting Some Snafus Pupdate! Episode Horoscopes: Know Your Stars Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews Backcountry Matchmaking Paige Pasquini | Instagram: @paigepasquini Cris “Indiana Bones” | Instagram: @cris.on.a.boat, email: cristopher.macdonald@gmail.com Taryn | Instagram: @Tarynwem, Facebook: Taryn Wem [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Janelle L, Paul Packman Sealy, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jason Lawrence, Jeff LaFranier, Jeffrey Miller, Mark Snook, Mitchell, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, and Zoe Jenkins Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Buy Chaunce's Book on Amazon. Get a free account at Hikerlink.

Today, we are joined by Doug Laher, the father of Trevor Laher, the hiker who tragically passed near Apache Peak on the Pacific Crest Trail earlier this year. Doug reads his beautiful tribute to Trevor, we talk about what lessons are to be learned from Trevors passing, and what can be done to prevent further tragedy on this dangerous stretch of the PCT. We also chat with Kaitlyn Purington, a volunteer and the PR rep at the Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit, a rescue non-profit based in Riverside County.  She walks us through what the organization does exactly, requirements for getting involved, and some examples of standout rescue missions from the last couple of years. We close out the show with some Trek Propaganda, how to check your bung for deer ticks, and our favorite creature comforts. Backcountry.com discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 to save 15% on your first purchase from Backcountry.com/backpackerradio Zpacks discount code:Use code: HEXAMIDBPR for $25 discount at Zpacks.com [divider] The Trek's Pledge to Do Better BACKPACKER RADIO MERCH Interview with Doug  Laher, Trevor Laher's Father  and  Kaitlyn Purington  from  Riverside  Mountain  Rescue  Unit Trevor's Eternal Trail  Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit  Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!  [divider] Doug Laher, father of late Trevor Laher 00:03:55 – Doug reads his article about Trevor 00:26:40 – The Article was written six weeks ago, what has happened since then? 00:28:00 – The intentions behind telling Trevor’s story 00:29:20 – How are you doing now? 00:31:34 – What do you want people to take away from Trevor’s story? How do we carry on his legacy? 00:35:25 – Any advice or words of wisdom for parents of aspiring thru-hikers? 00:38:30 – Possibility of reworking the trail at Apache Peak? 00:39:30 – Guthook put a warning in Trevor’s honor 00:46:10 – Can you tell us about the fundraiser you did with RMRU? 00:49:00 – The Trek readers donated roughly $5,000 to RMRU 00:50:30 – You can donate to RMRU here 00:55:20 – Circus and Snapshot made a memorial to Trevor 01:00:26 – Two rescuers retrieved all of Trevor’s belongings 01:07:40 – “You’ve got one fucking life, you better live that shit.” - IBTAT   Kaitlyn Perington of RMRU 01:11:00  – Can you tell us about RMRU? 01:12:20 – Is there an area that requires the majority of RMRU’s rescue missions? 01:12:55 – Is there a busier season? 01:13:26 – How many calls do you usually get from PCT hikers? 01:13:44 – How did you specifically get involved with RMRU? 01:14:35 – What was the process like for becoming a volunteer? 01:16:30 - Are there specific requirements for joining the unit? 01:18:00 – What skills/training/certifications are people required to have? 01:19:30 – How does a shift work? 01:20:30 – Is there a certain number of people you need for a mission? 01:21:50 – How has coronavirus impacted SAR? 01:23:49 – Would you still do mouth-to-mouth during COVID? 01:24:34 – How many missions do you do per year? 01:24:56 – Is there one mission you were involved with that stands out to you? 01:29:17 – Does it frustrate you when people are unprepared? 01:13:51 – Do you ever get frequent callers? 01:33:30 – If you keep getting repeat places you’re called back to, can you put a sign in a specific spot? 01:34:30 – What kind of funds are required to keep RMRU going? 01:37:10 – Aside from monetary donations are there things RMRU could use gear wise? 01:38:20 – donate at RMRU.org SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda – Effie Drew’s “Changing the Narrative and Amplifying Voices: Resources for Education and Inclusivity in the Outdoor Industry” Mail Bag Favorite lightweight entertainment / creature comforts on trail [divider] Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Janelle L, Paul Packman Sealy, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jason Lawrence, Jeff LaFranier, Jeffrey Miller, Mark Snook, Mitchell, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, and Zoe Jenkins Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Buy Chaunce's Book on Amazon. Get a free account at Hikerlink.

Today we are joined by Luke “Strider” Jordan.  Strider has a couple of very impressive treks on his resume including the North Country Trail (NCT), which is more than twice the length of the Appalachian Trail, as well as the 3,100 mile Great Plains Trail (GPT), which runs from Texas to North Dakota.  We also discover the wild world of naked pooping, a fan-submitted poop paradise on the John Muir Trail, and another edition of Backcountry Matchmaking.   [divider] Listen   Download this episode. [divider] The Trek's Pledge to Do Better BACKPACKER RADIO MERCH Interview with Luke Jordan "Strider" Facebook  North Country Trail  Great Plains Trail QOTD: “What is the proper poop dress code?" Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!  [divider] 00:02:00 – Gardening Updates! 00:04:18 – QOTD: What is the proper poop dress code? 00:10:00 – BPR Merch! 00:12:11 – Intro to Strider (Has hiked the North Country Trail and the Great Plains Trail) 00:12:47 – Where does your interest in backpacking come from? 00:17:30 – Did you have any mentors that told you how crazy it was to start with the NCT? 00:19:24 – How road walks affect the NCT. 00:20:40 – Where the NCT goes! 00:21:30 – Mosquitoes in the upper peninsula 00:27:09 – Support for the North Dakota section 00:30:15 – Inspiration from Andrew Skurka and Nimblewill Nomad 00:31:15 – “We Build Trail in Low Places” – NCT music video on vimeo 00:32:59 – Did Strider meet all 8 people who live in North Dakota? 00:34:40 – Is Strider affiliated with the NCT? 00:36:15 – How big is the non-profit team at the NCT? 00:38:08 – Plans to move the road walks to trail? 00:41:40 – Snow in Minnesota 00:49:39 – Patent Pending: A Dinner Knife that Attaches to Your Shoe to Make Ice Skates 00:58:18 – Any issues with deer ticks/ticks in general? 01:02:45 – What's it like having celebrity status as a thru-hiker on a less travelled trail? 01:07:30 – Ohio and the Buckeye Trail 01:15:00 – Blazes in the NCT Backcountry 01:17:13 – Hiking with maps instead of a smart phone 01:17:40 – How many people have thru-hiked the NCT? 01:19:00 – Stopping his trans-Ozark trail 01:22:00 – Hundreds of tiny ticks in Strider’s ankles 01:28:11 – How is New York? 01:31:30 – Could you do the Finger Lakes section as a wine hike? 01:40:08 – Strider met Ron Strickland 01:44:00 – James Lunning did 5 scenic trails back to back 01:46:10 – Is Strider the only person to have thru-hiked the Great Plains Trail? 01:54:00 – Starting in the desert was a new experience 01:57:30 – You need a support crew to get through New Mexico 01:59:00 – What is there to look forward to walking through Kansas? 02:00:00 – What is the wind like? 02:06:00 – Have you done the cave tours in Wind Cave National Park? 02:23:30 – If you want ______ you should hike the Great Plains Trail 02:25:00 – Where should people go to help out with the NCT or GPT? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda: The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Sleeping Bags and Quilts by Kelly Floro A Complete Guide to Resupply on the John Muir Trail by Inga Aksamit Pupdate: Harper is Huge and Misbehaving Triple Crown of Things That Make You Uneasy (?) Mail Bag! 5 Star Review Backcountry Matchmaking: Jeff aka "Chef Boy R.D.": @Pieceof_jake Kate "Stickerz": @katieb3th11 Buckeye: @therealjyoungs Buy Chaunce's book! Find Strider on Facebook: @StriderNCT   [divider]   Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Janelle L, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdwallet, Jacob Northrup, Jason Lawrence, Jeff LaFranier, Jeffrey Miller, Mark Snook, Mitchell, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, Zoe Jenkins Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Sarah Jones Decker, author of the new gorgeous photobook "The Appalachian Trail: Backcountry Shelters, Lean-tos, and Huts".  We learn what goes into a project as massive as doing a photo essay of all of the AT's shelters, Sarah's personal favorites, the history of these structures, which have the best privies, and much more.  Sarah is also the co-owner of Root Bottom Farms, an organic farm based in North Carolina, and we selfishly pick her brain on how to suck less as plants.   We close out the show with a triple crown of things that start with "W", a pupdate, some suggestions for using trail runners on rocky terrain, and another edition of Backcountry Matchmaking.  BACKPACKER RADIO MERCH Interview with Sarah Jones Decker "Harvest"  Website Rottbottom Farm Website AT Shelter Book Instagram QOTD: “Why is it so hard to keep houseplants alive?"  Save 15% at GossamerGear.com by using code "ATDRINK15" at checkout. Save 5% at Zpacks.com by using code “THANKSZACH” at checkout. Hikerlink! Backpacker Radio Merch! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!    [divider] 00:03:00 - Sarah’s Backpacking Resume  00:04:00 - Sarah has hiked the AT twice! 00:05:15 - Differences on the AT in 2008 vs. 2018-2019? 00:07:37 - What was your inspiration to thru-hike the AT? 00:08:25 - Are thru-hikers now the same as when you were 16?  00:08:50 - What is your educational background? 00:10:37 - Give us the intro to your AT Shelters book! 00:13:00 - Have you always been into history? 00:14:00 - How did you document while hiking?  00:14:38 - What are the most inconvenient shelters to get to?  00:18:40 - Is breastfeeding ever an issue on trail?  00:19:30 - When did the initial shelter book idea come to you?  00:20:00 - Did you fall into any type of routine? 00:21:00 - Additional contributors  00:23:00 - Elevator Pitch of AT shelters 00:26:34 - How many shelters can you get pizza delivered to?  00:31:00 - Camera Gear Setup 00:32:55 - What’s your favorite shelter?  00:37:47 - What’s the most underrated shelter?  00:40:00 - Double Shelters 00:45:00 - What shelter has the most history?  00:47:00 - What is it like to release a book during a pandemic?  00:48:00 - How many events did you have to cancel?  00:49:15 - What is the oldest shelter? 00:54:09 - What’s the biggest shelter?  00:54:54 - Which shelter has the best view?  00:57:00 - Conflicting Information 00:58:50 - Best Privy on the AT?  01:07:20 - One shelter you wouldn’t sleep in?01:11:57 - What shelter has the best water source? 01:14:33 - What is the Priest shelter?  01:15:03 - Top tips for trail shelter etiquette  01:17:27 -  The Shelter Graveyard 01:18:20 - The Only Shelter That Was Ever Stolen  01:19:20 - Tips for people who want to pitch a book to the ATC?  01:30:12 - Someone had a baby in her house and lied about it  01:33:18 - What tips do you have for starting photographers? 01:36:30 - You are a mom?  01:37:50 - Carrying a baby  01:39:54 - How does hiking change with a child? 01:41:38 - What about Falling with a baby?  01:43:17 - Advice for hiking with a baby?  01:45:17 - How do you manage diapers while hiking?  01:46:29 - Tell us about your poster of 444 different AT signs?  01:47:35 - The AT poster 01:50:25 - Can we talk about gardening? Introduction to Rootbottom Farm. 01:54:20 - What’s killing our plants?? 01:56:30 - Tricks for a Fiddle Leaf Fig?  02:01:03 - Which plants are friends?  02:02:30 - 101 for starting a raised bed garden? 02:07:33 - Can you tell us about microgreens? 02:16:00 - Where to find Sarah?   SEGMENTS   02:17:00 - Triple Crown of things that start with W. 02:23:42 - Pupdates 02:31:20 - Did Chaunce watch the Last Dance?  02:32:50 - Mail Bag 02:37:28 - 5 Star Review  02:39:29 - Stickers?  02:40:26 - Backcountry Matchmaking Katie, @katiecoryell Ross, @Ross_Berry Debi, Email: debirodriguez4@gmail.com Instagram: @Bluemoonrising2021,  or Facebook: Debi Rodriguez (BlueMoon). Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn, ineedcoffee 17, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdwallet, Jacob Northrup, Jason Lawrence, Jeff LaFranier, Jeffrey Miller, Mark Snook, Mitchell, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, Zoe Jenkins Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today we are joined by Shug Emery.  In addition to being a hammock enthusiast, with almost 100,000 YouTube subscribers, Shug's previous profession was as a circus clown for Barnum and Bailey.  We obviously go way down the traveling circus rabbit hole, and we promise you his stories do not disappoint.  Shug also shares his top tips for beginning hammockers, what his setup looks like, and what goes into making a successful YouTube channel. We close out the show with some Trek propaganda, a triple crown of things we will no longer take for granted, and, another edition of backcountry matchmaking. Interview with Sean "Shug" Emery YouTube: ShugEmery QOTD: “What's the one thing you've learned about yourself during this pandemic?"  Save 15% at GossamerGear.com by using code "ATDRINK15" at checkout. Save 5% at Zpacks.com by using code “THANKSZACH” at checkout. Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt!  [divider] 00:03:00 - Chaunce is BORED 00:08:45 - Zach doesn’t like pandemics. 00:09:06 - Interview with (and intro of) Shug (Sean Emery)! 00:10:42 - How Shug got started as a clown 00:12:20 - Clown College is competitive! 00:18:08 - Clown College Know-It-Alls 00:20:10 - Stories from the Circus  00:25:40 - How many days a week is the circus? Do you get time off?  00:28:06 - Spotlight guys always know where the good weed and food is! 00:28:48 - Is there a hierarchy in the circus?  00:33:20 - Why do people get into clowning? It’s not for the pay, so what’s the draw?  00:41:30 - What was your clown name?  00:43:20 - Where did the name Shug come from?  00:48:55 - What are the top skills for becoming a great clown? 00:53:08 - You went on to do a solo clown show?  00:59:00 - At the end of Clown College you get selected for contracts, and not everyone goes! 01:07:20 - Any circus secrets you can reveal?  01:14:10 - Why do you hammock?  01:16:07 - What is your backpacking background?  01:23:11 - If someone had a free week, what would you recommend for the Boundary Waters?   01:26:22 - Why hammock over tenting?  01:29:51 - What should someone look for in a good hammock?  01:35:16 - What is a good hammock hang vs. a bad hammock hang? 01:45:26 - Is Minnesota a wet state? 1:46:30 - What’s your setup on a -40 night?  01:48:28 - Advice from someone in your age range (early 60’s) who wants to start backpacking?  01:52:30 - Shug does art, too! 01:59:08 - Putting out content is hard! 2:00:20 - Any parting advice?  02:15:00 - Find Shug on YouTube   SEGMENTS 02:18:30 - Trek Propaganda 02:19:30 - Triple Crown of Things We Took For Granted! 02:30:22 - Did Chaunce watch the last dance?  02:31:57 - Things that aren’t Coronavirus  02:33:15 - Zach has never heard of cookie cake??  02:37:00 - Pupdates (also a poop story)  02:44:50 - Mail Bag  02:48:08 - Backcountry Matchmaking! Contestants:  Kyle "Birdman"'s Instagram: @kylecwicks Lauren's Instagram: @xlaurenx04 Joe's Email: rebelweather@gmail.com  02:57:11 - 5 Star Reviews! [divider] Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn (who got us that awesome Katahdin sign from TrailSigns), ineedcoffee 17, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: dcnerdlet, Jacob Norhtrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, Zoe Jenkins. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In episode 69, we are joined by Will Robinson, AKA Akuna.  Akuna is an army veteran, the first known African-American male to complete the triple crown, and an all around awesome guy.  We talk about his experiences in managing chronic pain, how hiking interfaced with his PTSD, what it's like hiking through rural America as a black man with dreadlocks, and some of the highlights and lowlights of each of his thru-hikes. We also have some listener emails, we learn how people are keeping busy during the apocalypse, and introduce a new segment, Backcountry Matchmaking- our new on-air dating service.  Giggity. Interview with Will "Akuna" Robinson Instagram: @AkunaHikes QOTD: “Do dogs know what other dogs are saying when they bark or because they don’t “learn” a language does it all just sound like babbling? Save 15% at GossamerGear.com by using code "ATDRINK15" at checkout. Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt! [divider] 00:04:30 - Meet Will “Akuna” Robinson and learn how he got started in hiking 00:05:44 - How he ended up on the PCT 00:06:30 - The closest long trail to Akuna in Louisiana 00:07:11 - How did growing up in New Orleans make you resilient?  00:08:42 - How did you end up in the military?  00:11:18 - Did your academic achievements have any bearing on your military experience?  00:12:40 - His Job in the Military (and how that became an electrical engineering degree) 00:14:00 - What was it like coming home from the military? 00:15:30 - Was PTSD treatment helpful? 00:16:20 - What are your injuries from the military? And how does that affect your backpacking?  00:19:00 - Healing through thru-hiking 00:24:50 - Why doesn’t the military talk more about mental health?  00:26:40 - Barriers to unorthodox treatments  00:27:37 - People thinking of long-distance backpacking with chronic pain 00:32:45 - Did you have to deal with withdrawals?  00:33:57 - Does backpacking alleviate pain? Or distract from it?  00:34:51 - Having flashbacks on trail 00:38:16 - Does your hiking family know about your flashbacks? Can they help in any way? What is the right way to help?  00:41:45 - How the thru-hiking community deals with mental health issues 00:45:00 - How Akuna Ended up on the PCT 00:49:00 - Tell us about your first PCT hike 00:51:00 - Akuna dislocates his knee on Mt.Whitney 00:54:00 - What was 2017 like on the PCT? 00:56:35 - Triple digit temperatures are no problem for Akuna 00:57:50 - How did you get your trail name on the PCT?  00:59:30 - Tell us about your 2017 Sierra experience 01:06:01 - Do you crave life-fearing moments? 01:10:00 - Akuna Hated the AT (at first)  01:15:19 - What is it like hiking the AT as an African American?  01:22:23 - Did you notice a difference in the way you were treated between the AT, PCT, and CDT?  01:26:00 - How does your trail family react when people are racist? 01:30:30 - Do you have any advice for Afircan Americans thinking about thru-hiking? 01:31:15 - Any advice for how the hiking community can help make thru-hiking more welcoming and inclusive? 01:32:00 - Notable AT moments 01:37:40 - Akuna’s AT Merrel Film & Akuna’s CDT Merrel Film 01:41:30 - Akuna’s CDT Hike 01:46:40 - The brutality of the CDT  01:48:15 - Gnarly weather on the CDT, PCT, and AT 01:50:25 - Falling in the Gila River on the CDT 01:55:05 - Akuna and Undecided almost get arrested 02:00:00 - How does it feel to be the first African American man known to finish the triple crown? 02:04:00 - Akuna’s postponed North Country Trail thru-hike 02:11:30 - Any plans for later this year if things clear up? 02:15:30 - Where to find Akuna: @AkunaHikes 02:17:11 - NZ borders closed for an entire year.   SEGMENTS 02:18:10 - The Trek Propaganda: Clay Bonnyman Evans reviews Chaunce’s Book 02:19:00 - Mail Bag!  02:20:00 - Things people are doing to stay sane during quarantine 02:26:30 - Akuna weighs in on if Carol Baskin killed her husband 02:28:07 - Pupdates from Chuance: Harper is Getting Crate Trained  02:36:38 - Five Star Reviews: Poop Stories and Horse Facts (& Impromptu Gear Reviews) 02:45:00 - Backcountry Matchmaking: Zach “Beta” Terpstra, Emily Mydlowski, Erica “Spitfire” [divider] Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn (who got us that awesome Katahdin sign from TrailSigns), ineedcoffee 17, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: dcnerdlet, Jacob Norhtrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, Zoe Jenkins. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today we are joined by Jean Muenchrath, mountaineer, escaper of death, author, and spiritual being.  Simply put, Jean's story is remarkable.  Jean gives us a play by play of the time she nearly died after catastrophic fall near Mt Whitney in winter conditions.  She walks us through not only this harrowing tale, but the long process to physical, emotional, and spiritual recovery, the subject of her book If I Live Until Morning: A True Story of Adventure, Tragedy and Transformation.   Chaunce and Badger wrap up the show with some listener emails, Poop Stories, and a new segment One Line Movie Reviews.  This is our last in-person podcast until the apocalypse blows over, so please do savor the flavor of this one.  Interview with Jean Muenchrath Her book: If I Live Until Morning: A True Story of Adventure, Tragedy and Transformation  QOTD: What is your least favorite animal? Save 10% at AppalachianGearCompany.com by using code "BACKPACKERRADIO" at checkout. Save 5% at Zpacks.com by using code "THANKSZACH" at checkout. Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt! [divider] Interview with Jean Muenchrath 00:03:14 - QOTD: What is your least favorite animal? 00:05:18 - Intro to Jean (backpacking, mountaineering, and skiing background)  00:08:50 - The Cross Country John Muir Trail Ski Expedition 00:10:16 - Muenchrath’s Backpacking Experience 00:11:12 - How did Ken and Jean meet? 00:14:14 - How many miles were you doing per day (during the XC JMT Ski Expedition)? 00:15:10 - Going up Mt.Whitney 00:18:22 - Ken goes sledding down the mountain all of a sudden 00:24:00 - The Fall on Mt.Whitney 00:30:00 - Jean’s Extensive Injuries 00:32:40 - After the Fall (Jean Woke Up The Next Morning) 00:34:25 - A Detailed List of Jean’s Injuries 00:36:40 - Getting Out  00:39:40 - Getting a Ride to the Hospital 00:42:00 Jean Had a Bad Feeling Before Leaving  00:43:40 - If you could do it again, would you?  00:49:00 - Jean’s Journal 00:51:25 - How did Jean and Paul meet? 00:53:00 - The Second Half of Jean’s Book 00:54:00 - The Himalayas 00:58:20 - Returning to Asia 00:59:30 - Have you always been a spiritual person? 01:02:40 - Jean’s Spiritual Transition 01:05:00 - Opioid Withdrawals 01:12:45 - Getting Started with Meditation  01:14:10 - Final Thoughts?   SEGMENTS: 01:17:00 - Sign up for Hikerlink! 01:17:40 - Trek propaganda - Kelly Floro - How to Choose the Proper Rain Gear For Your Hike  01:18:20 - One sentence movie plots  01:26:00 - Mail Bag 01:29:37 - Buy Chaunce’s book (on her website or from Amazon)!!   [divider] Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn, ineedcoffee17, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: dcnerdlet, Jacob Norhtrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, Zoe Jenkins. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again flipping the script.  This episode is dedicated to all things COVID-19.  We chat with a pair of experts on infectious disease and epidemiology.  Dr. Amesh Adalja is an infectious disease specialist at the Johns Hopkins University Center for Health Security.  And Jagdish Khubchandani is a Professor of Health Science at Ball State University with a PhD in Health Education and Epidemiology.  Both of our experts share their opinion on the latest data surrounding this virus, including the million dollar question of when they think it will be safe to resume our backpacking ways. We also are joined by a pair of 2020 NOBO turned NOGO thru-hikers (and Trek contributors), one from the AT, one from the PCT, to share their experiences of how this pandemic played out from their perspectives.  Taylor Frint had only been on trail for two days before making the decision to get off, while John Mecklin was a few hundred miles into his hike when shit really started hitting the fan. Also---it's worth stating here---after today's episode, we will likely drop the coronavirus subject for a while.  There's plenty of information out there regarding this virus, and although we're not about to pretend like it isn't impacting everything, we're hoping to provide a venue where you can go to escape the firehose of doomsday information.  The reason for today's episode is that we wanted to provide some expertise on this subject and how it pertains to backpacking along with shine a spotlight on those who made the difficult decision to hit the indefinite pause button on their hikes. In this episode: Specialist Dr.Amesh Adalja  Twitter Specialist Dr.Jagdish Khubchandani Twitter Hiker: Taylor Frint The Trek Vlogger Hiker: John Mecklin The Trek Blooger Save 5% at Zpacks.com by using code "ThanksZach" at checkout. Save 10% at AppalachianGearCompany.com by using code "BACKPACKERRADIO" at checkout. Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt! [divider] Interview with Dr.Amesh Adalja  00:04:00 - Intro of Dr.Amesh Adalja  00:05:26 - What is Dr.Adalja optimistic about (in regards to COVID-19)? 00:06:30 - Fatality estimate rates (is it overstated?)  00:08:26 - Why is antibody testing important? Are there any areas already doing this?  00:10:31 - What percentage of people do you think could get this and be asymptomatic? 00:12:00 - Do you have a rough estimate for when we will resume normalcy? 00:13:24 - Potential relaxation in May  00:16:40 - If you were running a municipality, what metrics would you be looking for in regards to  COVID-19 regulation? 00:18:00 - How far away do you think we are from a vaccine?  00:19:00 - How long until people with existing conditions (asthma, etc.) can expect to resume normal life?  00:20:00 - Will we all have to get COVID-19 eventually? 00:21:20 - Are there any promising treatments you are seeing happen? 00:22:14 - Should we be hiking with masks on? 00:24:10 - Is there fear mongering going on? What is serious about this virus? 00:25:50 - Where do we get more info from Dr.Amesh Adjala?   Interview with Jagdish Khubchandani    00:26:44 - Intro to Dr.Khubchandani  00:28:00 - How long does the virus live on surfaces (like wood, etc.)? 00:29:30 - Concerns for Trail Towns 00:31:00 - Vitamin D Deficiencies 00:32:00 - How long will we be self-quarantined? When will travel return to normal? 00:33:18 - Will there be a second peak when we all start going out and travelling again? 00:33:58 - Another Peak in September 00:34:15 - Will there be another self-quarantine? 00:34:48 - What’s your take on countries who have taken more severe measures on quarantine?  00:37:00 - Thoughts on the current state of the Coronavirus vaccine? 00:38:25 - What are your thoughts in terms of immunity with this virus?  00:40:00 - Should people be able to live their life normally after they are infected?  00:41:00 - What is the risk of reinfection? 00:42:17 - Do you have hope for any treatments in the pipeline? 00:43:25 - Testing!  00:44:00 - What are the right kinds of sanitizers to kill COVID-19? Hydrogen Peroxide, Rubbing Alcohol, Bleach 00:45:00 - Who’s at a higher risk for COVID-19? 00:46:00 - What kind of symptoms should people be on the lookout for?  00:47:30 - How many people are infected, realistically?  00:48:30 - What’s the difference between all the buzz words being thrown around right now (social distancing, socially irresponsible, self-quarantine)?  00:50:00 - When will groups of friends be able to get back together?  00:51:20 - Thoughts on making your own hand sanitizer? 00:52:45 - Do you have to leave your groceries in the car?  00:55:50 - What is one thing you’d convey to BPR listeners?    Interview with Taylor Frint: The Trek Design Intern, The Trek Vlogger, 2020 PCT hiker who had to get off a few days into her hike due to COVID-19.  00:59:58 - Start from the Top 01:02:00 - What did you have to put on hold or sacrifice for the hike? 01:03:00 - Walk us through the days leading up to your thru-hike! 01:04:00- What was it like when you got to the southern terminus? 01:07:10 - Did you know what it would take for you to get off trail? 01:08:27 - What were the opinions of people already on trail as far as getting off once the PCTA announced?  01:10:26 - Had you already made friends?  01:11:51 - how did you feel when you decided to get off trail? 01:13:11 - What was the mood like in the airport when going home?  01:14:23 - How does your age impact your fear of the virus?  01:16:00 - Where did you end up when you went home?  01:18:23 - Thoughts about people still on trail? 01:22:45 - Do you have plans to try again?  01:23:41- Southbound hike?  01:28:50 - How are you feeling now?    Interview with John Mecklin: The Trek Blogger,  Left trail 1 month into his thru-hike of the AT due to COVID-19 01:33:25 - Intro / How did you decide to thru-hike? 01:34:59 - What was the financial situation like leading up to your hike?  01:35:00 - When did you first start hearing about the coronavirus?  01:36:50 - When did you start being really concerned about the virus? 01:38:00 - Did behavior change on the trail because of the virus?  01:38:50 - What was the first moment that it started to feel real?  01:41:00 - When did you make the decision to get off trail?  01:42:48 - Did your hiking group stay on trail or get off?  01:42:18 - Are people you were hiking with still on trail? 01:44:20 - Why do you think people are still on trail?  01:48:45 - Was the trail experience living up to what you wanted it to be?  01:49:20 - In what ways do you think you became a better person while on trail?  01:51:30 - What is Memphis like right now?  01:55:43 - What are your plans for thru-hiking?  01:57:20 - How do you feel about having to get off trail? How are you feeling overall?  01:59:00 - What are you going to school for?  02:01:20 - Zach is proud of John and the thru-hikers who have gotten off this year.  [divider] Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn, ineedcoffee17, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: dcnerdlet, Jacob Norhtrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter, Peter Ellenberg, Zoe Jenkins. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Backpacker Radio is making good on their promise to get weird.  Today we bring you a drunk Q&A.  Backpacker Radio's new intern, Elise Ott, navigates us through a series of questions, including COVID-19, how we're handling the self-quarantining, a lot of poop related subjects, thru-hiking purism, and much more.  At the top of the show, one of Chaunce's friends gives us the poop story to end all poop stories.  This one is our most feral podcasts to date.  Because that's what you do during an apocalypse.  [divider] Drunk Q&A with  Badger & Chaunce Save 10% at Greenbelly.co by using code "TREK2020" at checkout. Save 15% at Gossamergear.com by using code "ATDRINK15" at checkout. Save 10% at AppalachianGearCompany.com by using code "BACKPACKERRADIO" at checkout. Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt! [divider] Drunk Q&A 0:03:52 - Intro, Welcome to BPR (long-distance style)  0:05:00 - Elise Ott Introduction (new BPR intern), articles on the Trek  0:05:50 - Casey’s Poop Story to End All Poop Stories 0:24:30 - We Meet Harper (after she pees on the floor)  0:26:44 - What are your favorite TP substitutes?  0:30:00 - What would you do if you were on trail right now? Even if you were 400 miles in? 0:41:43 - What international long hikes are Chaunce and Zach hiking or dreaming about? 0:45:00 - Only ramen for an entire trail or only mashed potatoes? 0:47:17 - If you ran out of toilet paper during your quarantine, what would you use to wipe?  0:54:22 - If you had to drink one celeb’s bath water whose would it be? 0:56:00 - If you had to pick another sport besides hiking to invest your time, energy, and money into, what would it be? And why? 1:00:00 - Is it okay to day hike right now?  1:09:00 - Ad break!  Save 10% at AppalachianGearCompany.com by using code "BACKPACKERRADIO" at checkout. 1:17:45 - If you had to shelter in place would you use a tent or build a shelter? What food would you bring? 1:28:28 - What kind of mud is Chaunce using to build her hut? 1:32:00 - The question, “what is your most memorable road walk?” turns into a discussion on thru-hiking purity.  1:50:09 - Are people as mean on the trail as they are on facebook? 1:55:09 - The Final Question (there are two): If you could name a pet or child after a place on trail? 1:58:15 - The Final Question (the second one): Could you do a major thru-hike backwards? And if you did, what gear adjustments would you make?  2:02:00 - Actually The Final Question: Will Chaunce take Harper on a thru-hike?  02:12:55 - Follow us on social media! (Chaunce's Instagram, YouTube, Facebook | Badger's Instagram, Elise's Instagram) [divider] Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner, and Travis Smith. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Michelle Pugh, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

We're joined by Sandi Marra, the president and CEO at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.  As noted in our previous podcast, the news and guidelines around COVID-19 and the trail system has been evolving rapidly.  At the time of the previous recording, the ATC asked people to postpone their thru-hikes.  Since that recording, the ATC has increased the severity of their recommendations- urging people to avoid the Appalachian Trail altogether, even for day hikes. Today's interview will largely center around that subject, including how the ATC arrived to this decision, when Sandi predicts that the trail will be safe to hike and backpack again, amongst many other Coronavirus related questions.  Sandi Marra of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Why was this decision reached to ask all people to stay off the Appalachian Trail?  Both in the context of backpacking and day hiking. What does she have to say to those who are still on the trail? What guidance does she have for those who want to get off but are having trouble finding resources? When does she foresee the trail reopening? Her thoughts on hiking in general right now? The Trek will be helping to put together a resource for those who are looking for a ride from the trail in the near future. Save 10% at Greenbelly.co by using code "TREK2020" at checkout. Save 15% at Gossamergear.com by using code "ATDRINK15" at checkout. Save 10% at AppalachianGearCompany.com by using code "BACKPACKERRAD10" at checkout. Hikerlink! Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out The Attempt! [divider] Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Christopher Marshburn, ineedcoffee17, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Michelle Pugh, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg, and Zoe Jenkins Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Erik Schlimmer.  Erik might be the hiker's edition of Forest Gump, in that he's somehow squeezed five lifetimes worth of events into his four plus decades on this earth.  If you're a fan of the Adirondack, you are in luck, because Erik is not only one of the most experienced hikers in this region, but also a historian of the range at large.  We also learn all about toponyms, including, what that word means, and he offers some truly fascinating examples.  Erik also shares about his time as a Coach on the show MTV Made, his time as a paratrooper, and his thriving career as a bird catcher.  Prepare to be filled with entertainment and knowledge.  We also dive into the history of peak bagging in the northeast, introduce a new segment- Fox News, learn about ultralight vibrators, how to ask an employer for time off to thru-hike, and wrap it up with a listener poop story.  Also, at the top of the show, Badger offers his two cents on the latest with the Coronavirus pandemic and how it relates to thru-hikers.   [divider] Listen   [divider] Erik  Schlimmer Personal Instagram Trans Adirondack Route Instagram Trans-Adirondack Route Website Beechwood Books The Trek Articles Save 10% at Greenbelly.co by using code "TREK2020" at checkout. Save 15% at Gossamergear.com by using code "ATDRINK15" at checkout. Save 10% at AppalachianGearCompany.com by using code "BACKPACKERRAD10" at checkout. Hikerlink! QOTD: What is something you are terrible at but wish you could do well? Interview with  Erik Schlimmer  Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt! [divider] Interview with Erik Schlimmer 00:00:00 - Erik Schlimmer Intro 00:00:55 - Gossamer Gear discount code: ATDRINK15 for 15% off 00:02:10 - Green Belly discount code: trek2020 for 15% off 00:04:08 - Hikerlink is out! 00:05:30 - QOTD: What is something you are terrible at but wish you could do well?  00:07:09 - Erik’s Cliff Notes Background. 00:08:20 - How Erik Ended Up on His 2002 Thru-Hike of the Florida Trail (via the 100 tallest Adirondack Peaks) 00:10:45 - Erik’s Educational Background  00:11:45 - Erik’s Adirondack Expertise 00:13:05 - Erik’s Specialty: Onomastics, Specifically Toponyms 00:14:30 - The Trans-Adirondack Route (Establishment, Completion Rates, Best Seasons, etc.) 00:21:40 - Getting a Handshake Deal so Hikers Can Cross Through Private Land 00:22:30 - What keeps thru-hikers from finishing the Trans-Adirondack route?  00:24:50 - How long does a Trans-Adirondack hike take?  00:26:20 - Resupply on the Trans-Adirondack Route 00:31:07 - The Difficulties of the Trans-Adirondack Route (and How it Compares to the Long Trail/The Whites in New Hampshire) 00:32:00 - Sustainable Trail Building 00:38:30 - Becoming a BackCountry Ranger (How do you get into it? Where do you start?) 00:40:40 - Recurring Themes of Rescues by SAR 00:42:34 - Erik Wants To See a Winter Thru-Hike of the Trans-Adirondack Route 00:43:40 - Where To Get Erik’s Book ( Trans-Adirondack Route & His Publishing Company - Beechwood Books) 00:44:28 - What are the concerns of a winter thru of the Trans-Adirondack Route? 00:49:20 - The History of Peak Bagging in the North East Part 1 & Part 2 00:50:49 - What about names that came from Native Americans?  00:54:20 - Talking about Toponym Work 01:03:26 - Calamity Pond and Naming Repeats 01:05:30 - Catamount Mountain  01:07:03 - Are there mountain lions in the North East?  01:09:40 - The Northville-Placid Trail 01:12:30 - Wildlife on the Northville-Placid Trail  01:18:00 - Deer Ticks?  01:19:44 - Erik’s 2,000 Summits  01:25:55 - Erik’s First Adirondack Mountain 01:27:53 - How Erik Went From a Master’s in Social Work to Being a Professional Bird Catcher 01:34:00 - Commercial Break: Appalachian Gear Company - Use Code: BACKPACKERRADIO for 10% off 1:35:43 - Erik’s Time in the Military (Earning His Wings, Staying Awake in the Woods for Days on End, and 90 Pound Packs) 01:41:35 - Parachute Landing Falls 01:44:00 - Getting Tangled While Parachuting  01:48:30 - Why did Erik want a Masters in Social Work? 01:49:50 - Hiking and Mental Health 01:54:00 - Erik Was a MTV Made Coach 02:08:58 - Erik’s Trek Articles, Trans-Adirondack Route, Beechwood Books, Instagram accounts: @us_mountains, @transADK SEGMENTS 02:10:00 - Trek Propaganda - The History of Peak Bagging in the North East Part 1 & Part 2, Trail Correspondents Season 3 02:20:44 - FOX NEWS (News About Foxes) 02:23:29 - Mail Bag (Vibrator Suggestions, Taryns That Love Chaunce, Taking Time Off to Thru-Hike)  02:43:18 - Listener Poop Story 02:46:30 - 5 Star Reviews [divider] Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner, and Travis Smith. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Michelle Pugh, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

The Cinnamon Connection is joined by ultra running legend, Courtney Dauwalter.  For those who might not be into the ultra-running scene, Courtney is an absolute powerhouse long distance runner, with a young race resume that's hard to fathom, including wins at the Moab 240 (which the 2nd place finisher was more than 10 hours behind her), the Javelina Jundred 100K, Run Rabbit Run 100-mile race *twice*, Western States 100, Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc- referred to as the super bowl of ultramarathons, amongst others.  Courtney is incredibly humble, Chaunce and Badger had to act as her hype team throughout the episode, a blast to chat with, and a fellow Goldenite.  There are some gems in this conversation, including when Chaunce told Courtney her poop story (like a good movie, it's even better the second time), how Courtney sees giraffes and flying eels on trail, that time she went blind, and how she continues to chisel away at her pain cave. Chaunce and Badger wrap up the episode with a triple crown of spring things that make us tingle, we plan a soon to be thru-hiker's going away party, and of course, another listener poop story.  

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by five sixths of the Strawbridge Family.  The Strawbridges successfully thru-hiked the PCT SOBO in 2018 with four kids in tow- ages 11, 13, 14, and 17.  We chat about everything you can dream of regarding hiking as a family, including how they handled school, gear, their pace, everyone's emotional and physical well being, and so on.  Vince and Monica, aka mom and dad, are fact checked by Georgie, Henry, and June, the youngest three of the four kids.  This is a fun interview, Chaunce and I laughed in excess, and hopefully serves as inspiration for young families looking to inject more adventure into their lives. We close out the show with a triple crown of ways to pass time on trail and of course, more listener poop stories.   Save 10% at Greenbelly.co by using code "TREK2020" at checkout. Save 5% at Zpacks.com by using code "THANKSZACH" at checkout. Code expires on 3/31. Hikerlink! Backpacker Radio Internship Application QOTD: What was your relationship with hiking as a kid? Interview with  Vince, Monica, Georgie, Henry, and June Strawbridge Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner, and Travis Smith. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Michelle Pugh, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by repeat guest Steven Shattuck aka Twinkle, along with his lovely wife, Grace.  This is our third annual Valentine's Day episode, and I am telling you, this one will give you all kinds of hashtag relationship goals vibes.  They detail their year-long adventure beginning with a traverse of The Hayduke- followed by some very serious globetrotting, including backpacking trips in the UK, Scandinavia, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Morocco, Thailand, and Nepal.  If you're prone to FOMO, you might want to skip this episode.  Just kidding, definitely do NOT skip this episode.   We wrap-up the show with our first ever edition of The Newlywed Game and explanation of how cranes work from an emailer, with some impromptu horse facts. Featuring: Steven Twinkle Shattuck Grace Shatuck Save 10% at Greenbelly.co by using code "TREK2020" at checkout. Save 5% at Zpacks.com by using code "THANKSZACH" at checkout. Code expires on 3/31. Backpacker Radio Internship Application QOTD: What's one interesting thing you’ve learned in the last month? Interview with Steven and Grace Shattuck Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner, and Travis Smith. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Michelle Pugh, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are changing things up a bit.  Today's show is dedicated to all things girl stuff.   We've kicked aside the segments and dove straight into everything to do with thru-hiking as a woman.  In addition to Chaunce, we are joined in studio by former guest, guest co-host, and listener favorite, Weezer, along with Chaunce's AT buddy and Trek Vlogger, Fireball.  These badass backcountry gals enlighten us on everything from managing periods on trail, to dealing with creepy guys, how they dealt with dangers- including the anticipation of danger vs. what the experience on trail, birth control, sex, hygiene, pee rags, and so on.  This turned into a marathon episode, and I think this will be a fun and informative listen for everyone, though especially our lady listeners. Featuring: Juliana Chauncey aka Chaunce Stephanie Lotus aka Weezer Margaret Mims aka Fireball Save 10% at Greenbelly.co by using code  "TREK2020" at checkout. Save 5% at Zpacks.com by using code "THANKSZACH" at checkout. Code expires on 3/31. Backpacker Radio Internship Application QOTD: What is a dog's heart rate? Girls Stuff Gender dynamics Body issues Dealing with family / loved ones Hair Periods Birth Control Pee rags Sex and hygiene Birth Control Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Check out The Attempt Podcast! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner, and Travis Smith. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Michelle Pugh, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today the Cinnamon Connection is joined by Wild Amanda aka Naps.  Naps is the only person I've met who's hiked the entire PCT with her dog, Frank.  We go down the rabbit hole on what it takes to thru-hike the PCT with a dog, including recommended gear, how she handled Frank's food and water, how she curtailed her hiking schedule to best suit Franks needs, and more. Naps' PCT thru-hike was the ultimate display of Murphy's Law, as she dealt with a broken nose, plantar fasciitis, food poisoning, hiking induced heartburn, trench foot, heat rash, altitude sickness, and of course, some very solid poop stories, figuratively speaking. We wrap up the show with the triple crown of Ben and Jerry's flavors, chips worth going to prison for, and another listener poop story.   Save 10% at Greenbelly.co by using code  "TREK2020" at checkout. Save 5% at Zpacks.com by using code "THANKSZACH" at checkout. Code expires on 3/31. Backpacker Radio Internship Application QOTD: What is one conviction you held during your first long distance backpacking trip which you now feel differently about? Interview with Wild Amanda aka Naps Thru-Hiking the PCT with a Dog Why she thru-hiked SOBO Murphy's Law Breaking her nose Hiking induced heartburn Trench foot Heat rash Plantar fasciitis Food poisoning Altitude Sickness Instagram: @tidelinetoalpine Facebook: facebook.com/tidelinetoalpne Website: www.tidelinetoalpine.com Podcast: WALK9 RADIO Trek Propaganda / Interview Follow-Up When Hiking a Long-Distance Trail Is the Road to Recovery by Pony  Checkout Pony's BPR episode 10 Things I Learned From a Failed Thru-Hike by Anna Kulinkski How to Get a Free Trip to the Moon! The Triple Crown of Ben and Jerry's Flavors Chips Worth Going to Prison For podcast@thetrek.co Listener Poop Stories Submission via @meredith_snyder 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner, and Travis Smith. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Michelle Pugh, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

We interrupt your normally scheduled Backpacker Radio content to bring you a sneak peak of a brand new podcast launched by The Trek in partnership with BadCat Media, called, The Attempt.     The Attempt follows Benjamin Drachman during his *attempted* SOBO thru-hike of the PCT in 2019.  The show is produced by Julia Drachman- and no that last name is not a coincidence, Julia is Ben's older sister.  What may shock you about this show is its production value.  And by that, I mean, it has production value.  We're all about trying new things here at The Trek.   In other words, if This American Life and Trail Correspondents had a baby, this podcast would be that baby.   Instead of further explaining what this show is, let's give you a Costco sample size for you to chew on.  As soon as I shut the hell up, you'll get the first episode of this show.  If you like what you hear, I encourage you to head to the thetrek.co/theattempt to find more episodes (the first three are already out) or simply search for "The Attempt" in your preferred podcast platform.   GET ALL OF THE EPISODES HERE   THE ATTEMPT on iTunes THE ATTEMPT on Google Play THE ATTEMPT on Stitcher

We are joined by legendary PCT trail angel, Donna, L-Rod Saufley of Hiker Heaven.  Donna comes by her trail name, L-Rod, short for lightning rod, very honestly. She's exceptionally outspoken, a ball of energy, and has a deep passion for the Pacific Crest Trail and its community.  We hear all about her time serving as a trail angel to PCT hikers for more than two decades.  This conversation is fun, engaging, educational, and we dip our toe into some controversial subjects.   Chaunce and I wrap-up the show with an update on the latest from Hiker Heaven, how you can get a free trip to the moon in a likely very prostitute-y way, a triple crown of stereotypes you meet on trail, and we are blessed with another listener poop story. Backpacker Radio SoCal Road Trip Presented by Sawyer! Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Sawyer Picaridin Packets Last chance to apply for The Trek's 2020 Ambassador Program Backpacker Radio Internship Application Interview with Donna "L-Rod" Saufley of Hiker Heaven Donna's favorite moments as a trail angel Donna's section hikes of the PCT Her advice to aspiring thru-hikers QOTD: If you could swap one trait with the opposite sex what would it be and why? Trek Propaganda / Interview Follow-Up Update on the Future of Hiker Heaven by Sam Olthof How to Get a Free Trip to the Moon! The Triple Crown of Stereotypes You Meet on Trail Listener Poop Stories 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner, and Travis Smith. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Michelle Pugh, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

We are joined by "Crazy Jack" Northam.  Crazy Jack has earned his name by summiting Mt. Whitney (the highest peak in the United States' lower 48) nearly 200 times, an endeavor he didn't begin until the ripe age of 50 years.  Today, jack now 72 years old and still going strong. He regales us with tales of his many ascents up his favorite mountain, why he chooses to summit the same peak, his yo-yo hikes on Whitney, his climbs beginning at the nearby town of Lone Pine, and how he stumbled into some seriously historic butter.  Chaunce and I close out the show by highlighting the top shelters on the Appalachian Trail, give an official ruling on the best Dorito flavor, do the Triple Crown of food items remaining in your bag when get to town, and get into a new recurring segment, Listener Poop Stories. Backpacker Radio SoCal Road Trip Presented by Sawyer! Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Sawyer Picaridin Packets We've surpassed 1,000,000 downloads!  We 2020 Trail Correspondents Application 2020 Trek Ambassador Program The 2020 Badger Sponsorship QOTD: How do you tie your trail runners for backpacking? How to tie your shoes with a heel lock Interview with Crazy Jack Northam How he got his trail name Why he continues to hike the same peak over and again His yo-yo hikes of Mt. Whitney Search and rescue missions on Mt. Whitney Jack's time in the Marine Corps Advice for older hikers Trek Propaganda The Top Tents on the Appalachian Trail: 2019 AT Thru-Hiker Survey by Mariposa Triple Crown of food left in your bag when you get to town. Cinnamon Court (Jury Edition): Cool Ranch vs. Nacho Cheese Doritos Mailbag: How to convince your boss to give you five weeks off. Listener Poop Stories 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn, Lance Whitley, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner, and Travis Smith. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Michelle Pugh, Peter Leven, and Peter Ellenberg Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today the Cinnamon Connection is joined by Scott Turner.  Scott is *the* go-to resource for all things hiking in Southern California.  He's the co-author of the latest version of "Afoot and Afield: San Diego County", known as San Diego's hiking bible.  Scott shares his favorite hikes in San Diego county, including the best short trails, long trails, the best ecological diversity, the best history, and much more.  We also cover the top footwear on the Appalachian Trail in 2019, our predictions for 2020, more horse facts, and Chaunce has a mini-meltdown. [divider] Backpacker Radio SoCal Road Trip Presented by Sawyer! Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Sawyer Picaridin Packets The 2020 Badger Sponsorship QOTD: Most Type II Fun Moment of 2019? Interview with Scott Turner Afoot and Afield: San Diego County: 282 Spectacular Outings Along the Coast, Foothills, Mountains, and Desert The best hikes in San Diego county Favorite short hikes in San Diego County Favorite long day hike in SD County If Scott could only hike one trail in San Diego for the rest of your life The hike with the most ecological diversity Which hike or region in SD is the most interesting from a historical perspective What are some SoCal-specific considerations someone visiting from out of town should make? The interplay between therapy, mental health, and hiking Hike the Parks: Joshua Tree National Park: Best Day Hikes, Walks, and Sights Trek Propaganda The Top Footwear on the Appalachian Trail: 2019 AT Thru-Hiker Survey by Mariposa Nostradavis and The Chaunce's Almanac: 2020 Predictions HORSE FACTS 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Marshburn S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Mark Snook, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today we are joined by comedy legend, Kevin Nealon.  In case you've been living under a rock for for the last 30 years, Kevin Nealon is famous for his years on Saturday Night Live, his character on Weeds, he's a popular standup comedian, he's been in a slew of movies, and he's now the host of his own YouTube show, Hiking with Kevin.  Kevin insisted that we do the interview in the back of our camper van, and he regales us with tales from his time at SNL, how one of his popular sketches almost turned into a musical produced by Arnold Schwarzenegger, his favorite Chris Farley story, that time he helped deliver his son, along with his favorite hiking spots around Los Angeles.   Chaunce and I also get into the dumbest items we've carried on a thru-hike, which way to wipe, we have a triple crown of music to get you through a miserable climb, and get some much needed horse facts.   [divider] Backpacker Radio SoCal Road Trip Presented by Sawyer! Use code "backpacker10" at publiclandscoffee.com Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Gossamer Gear Giveaway on Instagram Sawyer Picaridin Packets The 2020 Badger Sponsorship QOTD: The stupidest thing we've carried on a thru-hike. KEVIN NEALON! Hiking with Kevin on YouTube Who was in the best hiking shape? Who had the least appropriate hiking attire? Who was the person who drew the most celebrity fanfare from other people on the trail? Who would you most like to interview that you haven’t already? If you could interview any of your former characters- whether TV or movies, who would you choose and why? Hans and Franz almost turned into a movie. Favorite Chris Farley story How Kevin embraces the evolution of media When he helped to deliver his son His favorite memories as a collegiate quarterback Being on Johnny Carson's Tonight Show Trek Propaganda Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Survey: General Results by Mariposa Triple Crown of Music to Get You Up a Miserable Climb Mailbag: HORSE FACTS 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Mashburn, Lance Whitley, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Mark Snook, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, the Cinnamon Connection talk all things Trans Catalina Trail (TCT), which Chaunce and Badger thru-hiked a month(ish) ago.  We give a day-by-day rundown of the hike, including that time Chaunce hid in a bear locker when a bison stampeded through our camp, how we pirated our way onto a sailboat, and give some non-obvious tips on hiking the TCT. We also talk about the dumbest things we've forgotten to pack on a backpacking trip, debate the joy of Christmas music, how flashing your bunghole to the sun is good for your health, and answer some common gear questions. Backpacker Radio SoCal Road Trip Presented by Sawyer! Use code "backpacker10" at publiclandscoffee.com Use code "enlightened10" Enlightened Equipment for 10% at enlightenedequipment.com. Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Gossamer Gear Giveaway on Instagram Sawyer Picaridin Packets QOTD: What's the dumbest gear / item you forgot to pack for a backpacking trip? Perineum sunning The Trans-Catalina Trail An overview Terrain, terminuses, wildlife, how to get there, campsites, resupply, gear advice, water, navigation, wine. Our daily itinerary and highlights A bison stampedes through our camp and Chaunce hides in a bear locker. Lots of beach camping. The video recap Trek Propaganda 10 Thru-Hiking Tips to Reduce Environmental Impact by Katie Kommer The Backpacker’s Sustainable Gear Guide Unpopular Opinion Christmas music sucks. Mailbag 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Cristopher Mashburn, Lance Whitley, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullner A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Mark Snook, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

With Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Giveback Tuesday, Where's Waldo Wednesday, Thumbwar Thursday, and all the rest on the horizon, there is no better time to score your 2020 gear purchases than the present.  But with a never ending fire-hose of gear roundups coming your way during this holiday season, how do you decide on which items are best suited for you long distance goals? We got you. We reached out to many of Backpacker Radio's previous guests, some of the most esteemed long distance backpackers in the world, to share their favorite gear items - and why - just for you.  Below, you'll find all of the gear items mentioned in this show. [divider] Use code "backpacker10" at publiclandscoffee.com Enlightened Equipment 10-15% off sale at enlightenedequipment.com Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Zach "Badger" Davis Montbell Plasma 1000 Down Parka Lonolife dehydrated bone broth Juliana Chauncey aka Chaunce Montbell Down Booties Montbell Ex Light Down Anorak Clay "Pony" Bonnyman Evans Kindle Paperwhite Therm-a-rest Z Lite Nadia "Furball" Westenburg Patagonia Tropic Cover Sun Hoodie Cocoon Inflatable Pillow Michael "Grizzly" Ivey Pa'lante V2 Katabatic Gear Sawatch Quilt Ryan "Guthook" Linn Montbell Thermawrap Jacket Gossamer Gear Kumo John "Airborne" Schwarze Nitecore NU25 Headlamp Hoka One One Challenger ATR Trail Runners Jennifer "Odyssa" Pharr Davis Sawyer Micro Water Filter Farm to Feet Hiking Socks Astral Junction Hiking Shoes Michael "Kickstand" Papadatos Buff Craghopper Shirt Vargo Outdoors Bot Bottle Pot Matthew "Pretzel" Mason Deuce of Spades Trowel De Feet Duraglove Gloves Western Mountaineering AstraLite Quilt Membership to a local land trust or local land agency! Renee "She-Ra" Patrick GORE-TEX Socks Purple Rain Adventure Skirts Andrew "Reptar" Forestell Enlightened Equipment Convert Custom Darn Tough Socks Stephen "Twinkle" Shattuck Garmin InReach Mini Deuce of Spades Trowel Stephanie "Weezer" Lorenze Icebreaker Socks Heather "Anish" Anderson Gossamer Gear G4-20 Sawyer Squeeze Justin "2 Taps" Helmkamp Montbell Sun Block Umbrella Waterproof Cycling Socks Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen Mcdaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Lance Whitley, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullmer A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Douglas Koeneman, Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today we are joined by Anitra Kass, aka Nitro, who's a triple crowner and the PCTA’s Southern California Regional Representative.  Anitra is a wealth of information on all things PCT and conservation.  We talk about the new permitting changes for the Sierra and for southbounders, some of the biggest threats to the trail, how to best get involved as a volunteer for the PCT, CrossFit, and more.  Chaunce and Badger give a peek into their first aid kits, we have a new triple crown of segment, and get some advice from a listener on how to ease kids into the backcountry without annoying others.   [divider] Backpacker Radio SoCal Road Trip Presented by Sawyer! Use code "backpacker10" at publiclandscoffee.com Enlightened Equipment 10-15% off sale at enlightenedequipment.com Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Gossamer Gear Giveaway on Instagram Sawyer Picaridin Packets Question of the Day: What's in Badger and Chaunce's Thru-Hiking First Aid Kit? Interview with Anitra Kass, the Southern California Regional Representative at the Pacific Crest Trail Association Volunteer with the PCTA Donate to the PCTA Why the change in the Sierra and SOBO permit system Some more info on the need for the change. TREK PROPAGANDA Post-Trail Depression: It’s Not What You Think by Anne Baker The Triple Crown of Chips Mailbag 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen Mcdaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Lance Whitley, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullmer A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Douglas Koeneman, Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by legendary PCT trail angels, Joe and Terrie Anderson of Casa De Luna.  Much like the PCT itself, this conversation is fun, winding, long, and you'll still be left wanting more when it's all over.  We talk about how they got into trail angeling, some of their favorite stories over the many decades of their running Casa de Luna, why they're closing up shop, and much more.  We've also got some suggestions for staying in shape over the winter, some Trek propaganda, and a mailbag in which we give a conclusive answer to "when is a nero a nero?". [divider] Backpacker Radio SoCal Road Trip Presented by Sawyer! Use code "backpacker10" at publiclandscoffee.com Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Gossamer Gear Giveaway on Instagram Sawyer Picaridin Packets Run down on the SoCal Road Trip How we stay in shape (or don't) over the winter  Chaunce will drink Zach will also drink, but use TrainingPeaks.com to beat his friends in a TSS challenge Interview with Terrie and Joe Anderson of Casa de Luna Buy Casa de Luna rocks! Trek Propaganda Here’s How 5 Thru-Hikers Figured Out Their Lives After The Trail Mailbag / Unpopular Opinion "When does a nero become a nero?" aka "How long must one hike for it to be considered a nero?" 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen Mcdaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Lance Whitley, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullmer A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Douglas Koeneman, Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today, we dissect Badger's recent thru-hike on the Long Trail. We run the gamut on this little bruiser of a trail, including its terrain, the towns, how it changes after splitting with the AT, resupply strategies, Badger's gear (and what he'd change if he were to do it again), favorite shelters, and more. We also go into the results of a survey we ran on amongst Long Trail finisher which highlights their favorite towns, restaurants, shelters, and gear used. Last but not least, Chaunce and Badger chat with Chef Corso of MONTyBOCA. Chef Corso is a classically trained chef who gives the Cinnamon Connection some pointers on improving their piss pour backcountry meal game- without using a dehydrator. [divider] Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Gossamer Gear Giveaway on Instagram Sawyer Picaridin Packets Take the 2019 AT Thru-Hiker Survey! San Diego Backpacker Radio Meetup Chaunce uses the Altra Timps Badger's Big 3 Nemo Hornet 1p Elite Feathered Friends Swallow 20 UL Mountainsmith Zerk 40 Zach's Long Trail Gear List The Long Trail Survey Chef Corso of MONTyBOCA Video 1: Cheesy Beefy Vegetarian Nachos Video 2: Beef Stroganoff (available for Patreon Supporters) 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen Mcdaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Lance Whitley, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullmer A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Douglas Koeneman, Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Matt "Pretzel" Mason is a triple crowner, trail runner, sober hiker, former Mountain Crossings employee, wildland firefighter, gear snob, and bona fide character. His beard game is strong, and his opinions are stronger. This is our longest episode to date, and it promises to entertain throughout. Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Gossamer Gear Giveaway on Instagram Sawyer Picaridin Packets Use code "Trek10" at Greenbelly.co Take the 2019 AT Thru-Hiker Survey! San Diego Backpacker Radio Meetup Matt "Pretzel" Mason Interview The Lone Star Trail His time at Mountain Crossings Why he hikes without a stove His experiences with Baltimore Jack Gear advice His perception of the thru-hiking party culture as a sober hiker His take on maps vs. apps  His Continental Divide Thru-Hike His time as a wildland firefighter and search and rescue Trek Propaganda Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Trends: Examining Gear, Budget, and Resources Over the Past 5 Years by Mariposa PCTA Releases Updated Permit Regulations, Including Continuous Travel Through the Sierra by Maggie Slepian The Best Tents for Thru-Hiking Triple Crown of First Things We Notice When We Get Back From a Long Backpacking Trip 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Intro beats: Pauly Boy Shallcross Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen Mcdaniel, Christopher Marshburn, Lance Whitley, S11N, Sawyer Products, Thomas Fullmer A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Douglas Koeneman, Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, Peter Ellenberg Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again joined by our pal, Jeff Garmire, aka Legend. We catch up on all of his trail feats since he was last on the show including his ridiculous sub 6 day unsupported FKT on the Long Trail, how he messed around and set the Pinhoti FKT, his new book, Free Outside: A Trek Against Time and Distance, and much more. We have some Trek Propaganda and introduce a brand new segment- Trail Trivia, the drinking game. Crack open a PBR and play along, if you dare.   Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Sawyer Picaridin Packets Use code "Trek10" at Greenbelly.co Apply to be a Vlogger / Blogger for The Trek! Apply to be a Writer for The Trek Backpacker Radio San Diego Meetup 10/30 from 6-9pm at The High Dive (more details coming soon!) Interview with Jeff "Legend" Garmire Legend's Pinhoti FKT Legend's Long Trail Unsupported FKT Legend's diet  His mentality while attempting an FKT Legend's book: "Free Outside: A Trek Against Time and Distance" Legend's nasty ass feet Legend's Instagram Trek Propaganda  How to Hike the Best Sections of the AT by Kelly Floro The Trek's Gear Reviews TRAIL TRIVIA DRINKING GAME 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Christopher Mashburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Todd Cartner, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Christopher Marshburn, Lance Whitley, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Thomas Fullmer Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today's guest is Peter Bakwin, co-creator at fastestknowntime.com. We dive deep on all things FKT related, including his take on some of the more controversial FKTs, the proper way to document a speed record, and how he spearheaded this community. We also talk about Peter's long and impressive background in backpacking and ultra running, including his unmatched Rock-hard Hard Rock run. We also have a new unpopular opinion segment, a patent pending and much more.   [divider] Subjects discussed in the episode include: Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Sawyer Picaridin Packets Use code "Trek10" at Greenbelly.co Apply to be a Vlogger / Blogger for The Trek! What is fastestknowntime.com and how did Peter get started with it? Their donation page Peter’s FKT’s JMT, Torres del Paine, Mt. Sanitas & other local trails Running a 3-mile loop for 12 hours straight Where did the term FKT come from? How did Peter come up with the categories - supported, unsupported, and self-supported Controversial FKTs Who referees issues Wildcard Ninja Appalachian Trail FKT fiasco Issues with faulty GPS trackers Peter’s background in backpacking Why shorter hikes over long-distance hiking? Adventuring with his wife Peter and Clay go way back - biking together in 1976 Highlights from bike-packing adventures Peter’s Big 3 The Hard Rock Double / Rock Hard Hard Rock Spirituality and meditation in relation to his endurance endeavors Trek Propaganda Casa de Luna and Hiker Heaven closing Unpopular opinions segment What is the minimum length for a thru-hike? Patent Pending 5-star Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Christopher Mashburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Todd Cartner, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, and Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.  

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we sit down to chat with, record holder, trail legend, author, and Backpacker Radio repeat offender, Heather "Anish" Anderson. We go into depth on her new book, Thirst, which chronicles her 2013 Fastest Known Time on the Pacific Crest Trail, including her lowest moments from the hike, mountain lion encounters, and dealing with extreme heat in the southern california desert. Also, per your request from our last chat, we talk gear. We have a trek propaganda featuring the impact of vloggers in thru-hiking, a brand new Cinnamon Court, and a mailbag. Subjects discussed in the episode include: Use code "ATDrink15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Sawyer Picaridin Packets Use code "Trek10" at Greenbelly.co Apply to be a Vlogger / Blogger for The Trek! Backpacker Radio Intern Application  Already have filled our 2019 intern role, still taking applicants for 2020! Thirst: 2600 Miles to Home Get a signed copy here! Anish's website Anish on Instagram Anish's diet on the PCT Her tips for eating gluten free on a thru-hike Lessons learned during her FKT Anish's Big 3 during her Calendar Triple Backpack: Gossamer Gear Mariposa / Gossamer Gear Gorilla Sleeping bag: Montbell Down Hugger 800 #0 Tent: Gossamer Gear The One and The Two Anish's gear lists TREK PROPAGANDA PCT Section Profiles Southern California The Sierra Northern California Oregon Washington Is YouTube Good for Long Distance Trails by Clay Bonnyman Evans The Best Backpacks for Thru-Hiking Cinnamon Court Mailbag 5-star iTunes Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents Check out Stories from the Trail Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Christopher Mashburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Todd Cartner, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Jacob Northrup, and Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.  

The Cinnamon is Connected for good. Or for bad. But undoubtedly, for the foreseeable future. Chaunce and Badger go deep on the rest of Chaunce's Appalachian Trail thru-hike, including untold poo stories, her take on New Hampshire and Maine, her legendary chafing, how she gained weight while thru-hiking, suggestions for the ATC, and how she plans to combat post thru-hike depression now that she's back in the "real world". We chat about Badger's recent hikes on the Wind River High Route and Pfiffner Traverse. We introduce a brand new segment, Unpopular Opinions and have a Patent Pending. This is a full show, so grab an extra PBR and saddle up.  Subjects discussed in the episode include: Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella How to back flush a Sawyer Squeeze Sawyer Squeeze Sawyer Micro Squeeze Use code "Trek10" at Greenbelly.co Apply to be a Vlogger / Blogger for The Trek! Denver-Area Hiker Trash Meetup San Diego Area Hiker Trash Meetup Backpacker Radio’s first Road Trip!! to Southern California Let us know people we should reach out to, places we should see, cheeseburgers we should eat. Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co Chaunce on the AT Differences between 1st and 2nd half of hike Mahoosic Notch vs Arm Hiking partners/groups on trail/comparison to PCT Favorite stretch in the second stretch of trail Chaunce gained weight on the AT How did my mentality shift towards the end of the hike Midday Meltdowns Things Chaunce would change about the AT Ziplock’s poop story 100 Mile Wilderness illness Hiker hunger and diet on trail The climb up Katahdin Post trail depression Affording a thruhike Zach’s Pfiffner Traverse trip Zach’s Wind Rive High Route trip Trek Propaganda Cari Pattison's AT Injury Segments Unpopular Opinions Patent Pending 5 Star Reviews Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents Check out Stories from the Trail Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Christopher Mashburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Todd Cartner, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.  

Renee Patrick, known on trail as She-ra is a triple crowner, designer, and all-around Renaissance Woman.  In addition to hiking pretty much every trail in the United States and some abroad, she's also served in the Peace Corps, interned at the Smithsonian, and presently serves as the coordinator at the Oregon Desert Trail.  She shares stories of being caught in a military coup in Africa, having her pack stolen by a bear, being bitten by a brown recluse on the Appalachian Trail, and building and selling a merchandise company.  Of course we've got some Trek Propaganda as well as a very poopy edition of would you rather. Subjects discussed in the episode include: Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella How to back flush a Sawyer Squeeze Sawyer Squeeze Sawyer Micro Squeeze Use code "Trek10" at Greenbelly.co Apply to join The Trek's class of 2020 Bloggers + Vloggers Peace Corps Appalachian Trail 1999 (drink?) Ray Jardine's books Internship at the Smithsonian West Highland Way Pacific Crest Trail 2006 REI Used Gear Sale The Wonderland Trail Continental Divide Trail She-Ra cartoon TREK PROPAGANDA How to Hike the Oregon Desert Trail by Katie Gerber Getting to Know the Oregon Desert Trail by Renee Patrick Visit the Oregon Desert Trail website! iamhikertrash.com @wearehikertrash Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents Check out Stories from the Trail Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Todd Cartner, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Clare, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.  

Today we are joined by Clay Bonnyman Evans, aka Pony, who's an author, long time Trek Writer, AT and Colorado Trail thru-hiker, and someone with a deep passion for the trail and its culture. We touch on a wide array of subjects in this episode, including some controversial topics such as the Twelve Tribes and Yellow Deli, Inchworm's tragic death on the AT, bringing a gun on a thru-hike, YouTube scam artists, how privilege pertains to thru-hiking, barfing on poo and way more. Clay is a ball of energy. This episode will likely stir up some fun debate. Subjects discussed in the episode include: Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella How to back flush a Sawyer Squeeze Sawyer Squeeze Sawyer Micro Squeeze Use code "Trek10" at Greenbelly.co 2019 Thru-Hikers: Submit your completion photos to editors@thetrek.co, including your trail name and start and finish dates. Murder statistics on the Appalachian Trail Lyme disease on the Appalachian Trail InsectShield Clothing Sawyer Permethrin Pony's poo story Nimblewill Nomad 12 Tribes / Yellow Deli on the AT When You Find My Body: The Disappearance of Geraldine Largay on the Appalachian Trail Sam Harris' Podcast Konnarock Trail Crew Bones of My Grandfather: Reclaiming a Lost Hero of World War II by Clay Bonnyman Evans How to Volunteer on the Triple Crown Trails by Becky Booroojian TREK PROPAGANDA Little Skittle's PCT Video's The Truth Behind 9 Common Appalachian Trail Myths by Clay Bonnyman Evans Cinnamon Court Who packs out the trash? Question from Weezer Submit your questions to podcast@thetrek.co 5 Star iTunes Reviews Privilege in thru-hiking Intro Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents Check out Stories from the Trail Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Todd Cartner, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Clare, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.  

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, I am joined by recent Western States 100 winner, Clare Gallagher.  Not only is Clare a world-class ultra runner, she's also a very vocal and passionate environmental activist, Princeton graduate, Patagonia athlete, and all around powerhouse.  She shares how she was able to pull off the most important victory in her young ultra running career, the two weeks she spent hanging out with Tommy Caldwell in the arctic leading up the race, all the while doing everything she can to save the world.  Literally.  I touch briefly on my hike of the Oregon Coast Trail, we have a trail propaganda featuring how to thru-hike as a petite woman, and much more.   Subjects discussed in the episode include: Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Sawyer Permethrin Use code "Trek10" at Greenbelly.co Running Your First Ultra: Customizable Training Plans for Your First 50K to 100-mile Race by Krissy Moehl Leadville 100 Ultra-Trail Du Mont-Blanc Western States 100 Call them! Andrew Skurka episode FKT for the Joshua Tree Traverse Speak up in favor of H.R. 1146 How to find your local representative Clare Gallagher's website Clare's Instagram Trek Propaganda Thru-Hiking Advice for Small Women How to Dress for an Appalachian Trail thru-hike Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents Check out Stories from the Trail Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Todd Cartner, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via. Featured image taken by Austin Siadak.

She's baaaaack.  Sort of.  Halfway.  At this year's Trail Days, we caught up with Juliana Chauncey aka Chaunce, who was roughly half way into her AT thru-hike. She regales us with tales from the first 1,000 miles of her trek, including what has surprised her, how her gear system has held up, how it's differed from her PCT hike, and talks about that time she awoke to a stranger humming and dancing atop of her hammock. We do a Triple Crown of Highlights from the southern half of the Appalachian Trail, featuring Jabba, who jumps in and out throughout the show, get a bot's analysis of Backpacker Radio, and get our freshest trail poop story in the history of the podcast. This is a fun reunion show and just a reminder that the cinnamon is still connected.   Subjects discussed in the episode include: The Jordan Trail  Sawyer Permethrin Chaunce loves her Katabatic Flex Chaunce's tour of Katabatic Therm-a-rest Zlite sleeping pad Chaunce's hammock charmer at Deep Creek Springs Triple Crown of Highlights in the Southern Half of the Appalachian Trail Paul's Boots Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Todd Cartner, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

Jim Kern is a name you ought to you know. He's the founder of the Florida Trail Association, co-founder of the American Hiking Society, founder of Big City Mountaineers, founder of Hiking Trails for America, author, and passionate outdoorsman. He gives us his best pitch on why someone should hike the Florida Trail, how his organization has been getting at risk youth into the backcountry for three decades, how he's fighting to guarantee a continuous footpath on our national scenic trails for posterity- and how you can help. We also catch up with Pox Holiday of the Pox and Puss Podcast to talk about the future of their show, emergency brown in the whites, and Baltimore Jack stories. Subjects discussed in the episode include: The Jordan Trail  Sawyer Permethrin The Trek is hiring a Lead Developer / CTO JIM KERN The Florida Trail Big City Mountaineers American Hiking Society Sign the petition Hiking Trails for America  Friends of the Florida Trail Interview with MACHO POX HOLIDAY The Pox and Puss Podcast Baltimore Jack at The Doyle Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Todd Cartner, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Pox Holiday, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

We are once again joined by Backpacker Radio's most invasive species, otherwise known as The Real Hiking Viking. We hear all about his two month long stint on the Jordan Trail. He tells us all about this trek, the region, its people, the food, and the experience altogether. We also chat about what went wrong on his Long Trail winter thru-hike attempt, and how he opted to swallow his pride instead of putting his life at risk. I briefly touch on thru-hiking with your dog as part of today's Trek Propaganda, and we close out the show with a triple crown of new gear that we're excited to test.   Subjects discussed in the episode include: Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Gossamer Gear Liteflex Umbrella Sawyer Permethrin The Jordan Trail Jabba's attempt for a winter Long Trail thru-hike The Trek's YouTube Channel Mountainsmith Zerk 40 Thru-Hiking with a Dog Triple Crown of Gear We're Excited to Test Montbell Hugger #2 900 Therm-a-Rest Hyperion Quilt Icebreaker Quantam 260 Native Eyewear Griz Sunglasses Big Agnes Tiger Carbon UL2 Altra Timp 1.5 Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Todd Cartner, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow The Real Hiking Viking, Weezer, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, myself plus a special guest co-host are joined by Jeff "Legend" Garmire.  He's back, and oh boy does he have new stories to share, including the time he had to superglue his foot shut.  We chat all about his previous year, which was arguably busier than anyone in the backpacking world, including his Great Western Loop, a 7,000 mile hike, and his recent Arizona Trail FKT.  We go way deep on both of these hikes, when we're not filling the airwaves with laughter.  We also unveil a new hiker of the week and a brand new segment, which will also likely be retired after this episode.   Subjects discussed in the episode include: Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Sawyer's International Website Sawyer Squeeze vs. Sawyer Micro Squeeze Use Code "trek10" at Greenbelly.co to save 10% off your order. Reflections on Stronghold's murder Weezer's back! Weezer's first episode Legend's first Backpacker Radio appearance The Great Western Loop Nolan's 14 Legend's Instagram account Legend's Arizona Trail FKT reflections Legend's Big 3 Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Kumo Katabatic Flex 22 quilt The Trek Propaganda Top 10 Things I Didn’t Expect About Thru-Hiking by Cari Pattison PR 101 with Legend Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Todd Cartner, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Legend, Weezer, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In 2015, Scott Jurek was the most talked about person on the Appalachian Trail, even the trail community at large.  As soon as the legendary ultrarunner announced that he was bringing his talents to Appalachia, a flurry of fanfare and press followed suit.  Though his record has been broken a pair of times since, the swell of attention has yet to be matched.  Today Jabba and Badger sit down with Scott Jurek and his wife and head crew member, Jenny Jurek, to learn about this FKT, what the undertaking was like from each of their perspectives, how it's prepared them for parenthood, their new book "North: Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail", and much more. We also get an introduction to our newest Thru-Hiker of the Week, "Sochi", who's attempting to become the first amputee to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail. Subjects discussed in the episode include: Subjects discussed in today's interview: Book giveaway Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Sawyer's International Website Sawyer Squeeze vs. Sawyer Micro Squeeze Check out Scott and Jenny's new book, North: Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail What it's like to run a 24 hour race Jabba drones on about Pennsylvania How he hiked through a torn quadriceps What is was like thru-hiking with so much fanfare Was Jenny caught off guard by the smell of thru-hikers? Hiking through Vermont in a high rain year (Vermud!) Scott's Advice to future FKT attempters Dealing with weight loss Physical and mental toll of his journey Life since his FKT The World is Our Classroom by Cindy Ross Eat and Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness by Scott Jurek Born to Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen by Christopher McDougall Thru-Hiker of the Week Follow Sochi on Instagram Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Scott Jurek, Jureks on the Run, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Scott Jurek, The Trek, Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, Badger is joined by Jon Schwarze, aka Airborne.  Despite this being his first thru-hike, last year Airborne became just the fifth person to yo-yo the Pacific Crest Trail (which is to thru-hike the same trail in both directions in less than one year).  We go balls deep on everything that went into this trek, including the differences between his NOBO and SOBO hike, his gear, his bizarre and demanding diet, what it was like meeting Scott Williamson, and how his background (despite having limited backpacking experience) played a major role in his success.  We also get into some Trek Propaganda, two lies and a truth, a mailbag, and more.   Subjects discussed in the episode include: Airborne Interview Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla Sawyer's International Website Sawyer Squeeze vs. Sawyer Micro Squeeze Use code "thetrek" at us.foursigmatic.com (our link) to save 15% Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver, CO Premature Evaluation: Hoka One One Challenger ATR 5 What is a Yo-Yo? Background in sports Difference calf sleeve makes for hiking How he got his trail name Why he uses tampons His bizarre diet Biggest mileage day Airborne's Gear Enlightened Equipment Enigma NeoAir Xtherm Sleeping Pad Challenger ATR 4 Superior Wilderness Designs Pack SWD Fanny Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2 to REI Quarter Dome 1 Where the mosquitos were the worst Condor Trail The California drought is done TREK PROPAGANDA Wisdom from 2018 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers (Pt. I) Wisdom from 2018 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers (Pt. II) Wisdom from 2018 Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hikers (Pt. I) Wisdom from 2018 Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hikers (Pt. II) Wisdom from 2018 Continental Divide Trail Thru-Hikers (Pt. I) Wisdom from 2018 Continental Divide Trail Thru-Hikers (Pt. II) How to Prevent and Treat 7 Common Thru-Hiking Foot Problems Two lies and a truth Mailbag 5-star iTunes Reviews Danny Devito Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Airborne, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek, Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, recorded at Wayfinder, Badger sits down with Weezer, a 2018 PCT hiker with one hell of a story.  We talk about what it's like to thru-hike in the PCT's bubble as a sober person, an incredibly sad life event she had to endure while on trail, and how the trail has played a role in her metamorphosis to a better life.  We get a new thru-hiker of the week and close out with a triple crown of PCT restaurants, joined by special guest Puma.  This is an emotionally dense, yet ultimately, uplifting show.  Subjects discussed in the episode include: Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver Use code "thetrek" at us.foursigmatic.com (our link) to save 15% Sawyer's International Website Sawyer Squeeze vs. Sawyer Micro Squeeze Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO5" for 5% off your order at zpacks.com Weezer's top advice for first time thru-hikers Weezer's Big 3 EE Enigma quilt Nemo Hornet 2p Switch from Osprey Aura to My Trail Co Pack Fires on the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018 Her experiences hiking the PCT sober Other notable sober hikers  lint_hikes nic.antoinette Advice for people who want to thru-hike sober Weezer's Instagram: @stephlotus_ Trail Angles on the Pacific Crest Trail by Laura Johnston How to Get to the CDT Southern Terminus by Megan McGowan PCT hiker who ate only McDoubles over 90 mile stretch Thru-Hiker of the Week: @honcebonce Puma's Backpacker Radio Episode Triple Crown of PCT Restaurants Cabazon Casino Buffet Bear Creek Cafe (now The Station Cafe) Stehekin Bakery Buffet at Timberland Lodge Seiad Valley Cafe Paradise Valley Cafe Sonora Cantina (Big Juan burrito challenge) Thai Hachapi Thunder Island Brewing Mom's Pie House Yaks on the 5 Leave us a review on iTunes Danny Devito Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents! [divider] Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Sawyer Products, Todd Cartner, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Weezer, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek, Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, Smiles and I sit down with author Ken Ilgunas. To put it simply, Ken is a guy who marches to the beat of his own drum. We talk at length about his time hiking the length of the Keystone XL Pipeline both where it was developed and supposed to be developed, where had to not only trespass for much of this hike, but knock on complete strangers doors for help on many occasions. He shares his take on public vs. private land, why we should have hiking access on private land, the threats to public land, and how this is handled in other countries. Ken also shares about his time living out of his van, before #vanlife was even a thing. We close out the show with a new thru-hiker of the week, some Trek propaganda, and a new segment, two lies and a truth. This is another juicy show. So strap in. Subjects discussed in the episode include: Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear GorillaVasque Boots Sawyer's International Website Sawyer Squeeze vs. Sawyer Micro Squeeze Use code "thetrek" at us.foursigmatic.com (our link) to save 15% Interview with Ken Ilgunas His second hike ever was in the Brooks Range in Alaska Hiking the Keystone XL Trespassing Across America (Ken's book about this hike) The Montana Posse  Why he didn't take on a more traditional long trail such as the Appalachian Trail or Continental Divide Trail The Right to Roam This Land Is Our Land: How We Lost the Right to Roam and How to Take It Back (Ken's most recent book) His Gear Deuter 65L Backpack Black Diamond Z-Lite Poles TarpTent Walden on Wheels (Ken's book about his time living out of his van in college) Thru-Hikers of the Week Trevor Pyke (@crunchmaster_hikes) and Aaron Johnson (@lismic). Read the story here. Planning a Thru-Hike as a Member of the PCT’s 1.6% by Sam Cooper Apply to be a Blogger / Vlogger for The Trek Two Lies and a Truth Story of Michael Guerette Danny Devito Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Ken Ilgunas, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Ken Ilgunas, The Trek, Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by adventuring legend, author, blogger and backcountry guide, Andrew Skurka.  This is a very meaty show, we touch on a huge number of subjects including his ridiculous backpacking endeavors, his favorite backcountry routes, his bear bagging recommendations, the current state of rain gear, specific gear recommendations for an AT or PCT thru-hike, and so much more.  Strap in, this is a fun interview filled with a ton of valuable insight. We also debut a new segment, featuring a popular YouTube personality by the name of Second Chance Hikes, and close out the show with a triple crown of survival items.   Subjects discussed in the episode include: Subjects discussed in the episode include: Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Gossamer Gear The One Gossamer Gear Gorilla  Sawyer Micro Squeeze Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Use Code "trek10" at Greenbelly.co to save 10% off your order. Use code "thetrek" at us.foursigmatic.com (our link) to save 15% Smiles intro! ULA Circuit  Big Agnes Fly Creek 1 Mountain Hardware 15 Andrew Skurka Interview Zion Williamson needs a new pair of shoes Andrew "Paul Revere" Skurka Sea to Sea Route Great Western Loop Jeffrey Garmire aka Legend recently became second person to complete this trail Alaska-Yukon Expedition Andrew's Guided Trips InsectShield and other factory treated permethrin treatments Andrew's Bear Bagging Recommendations Ursack Loksak Bear Canister Yosemite High Route Pfiffner Traverse Wind River High Route Columbia Outdry Andrew Skurka's Ultimate Hiker's Gear Guide 2nd Edition Sleeping bag / quilt insulation for the Appalachian Trail Hydrophobic down or high quality down provider like Western Mountaineering How to keep your down preserved on a damp / humid trail Andrew made a grizzly bear shit itself Future expedition that excites Andrew AndrewSkurka.com Second Chance Hiker on YouTube Email us at podcast@thetrek.co to nominate a "Thru-Hiker of the Week" Triple Crown of survival items Danny Devito Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Andrew Skurka, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek, Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we're joined by Peter Downing, a modern day renaissance man.  We chat about his history as an ultra runner (including his four wins at the Buena Vista 50), his time in the Peace Corps, his career as a lawyer, and now, his latest undertaking, Suffer Better, a community of ultra runners whose mission is to give back.  It's a fun, freewheeling convo where Peter teaches us the ins and outs of the ultra world.  We touch on what it's like to have cold feet before a thru-hike and we get into a lewd edition of Would You Rather. Links: Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver Greenbelly.co - use code "Trek10" to save 10% Sawyer Micro Squeeze Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Zpacks.com - use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" (all caps) to save 5% (good through 4/31) Four Sigmatic (our link) - use code "thetrek" to save 15% [divider] Chaunce is on the AT, but she isn't, but she is (but she isn't). Zach kicked in a window. Altra Lone Peaks are not glass proof. Hoka One One trail runners (started from the former Salomon employers) Ultimate Direction running vests Chaunce gets covered in poo (again) The life of a law student Suffer Better Second Thoughts and Pre-Hike Blues by Christy Fairlie Would You Rather 5-star iTunes Reviews Danny Devito Song: Walking Slow by Animal Years Check out Trail Correspondents! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Suffer Better, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek, Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we're joined by Justin Helmcamp, aka Two Taps, who was kind enough to extend his layover in Denver to record this show.  We chat about his Flip Flop thru-hike of the AT, his hike on New Zealand's Te Araroa, and his work as a wilderness therapist.  We do a patent pending.  And we commence the #ChaunceDontChafe hashtag. [divider] Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Sawyer Permethrin Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Use code "thetrek" at us.foursigmatic.com (use that link) to save 15% Use Code "trek10" at Greenbelly.co to save 10% off your order. Chaunce is on the AT.  Will still be co-host of the show, but will miss some episodes this year. Justin "2Taps" Helmkamp Te Araroa Oregon Desert Trail His Gear Pack: Gossamer Gear Kumo 36, SWD 35, Pa'lante Packs Shelter: Hyperlite Mountain Gear echo II tarp Quilt: EE Enigma Apex 30 Synthetic Footwear: Lone Peak 4, Bedrock Sandals HIKE for Mental Health The History of the Pacific Crest Trail by Kenny Howell Myron Avery: The Bully Who Built a Trail by Geoff Hutton.    Patent Pending! Mailbag 5-star reviews Check out Trail Correspondents! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow 2Taps, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek, Backpacker Radio, and Chaunce on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we are joined by Gummy Bear, a 2018 PCT hiker and all around awesome dude.  We do a deep dive on his experience of being a gay and plus size hiker in the trail community.  We chat some about his upcoming Arizona Trail hike.  Chaunce and I deliver the PCT class of 2019 a warning for what they can expect to see in the Sierra this year and why you might want to consider hiking southbound.  We do a triple crown of things to freak out about before leaving for a thru-hike.  Basically we touch on all the reasons why you should never leave your house (not actually).  This is a meaty show, so find a comfortable place to sit, lay, or meander down the trail. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Recorded at Wayfinder in Denver, CO Use Code "Trek10" at Greenbelly.co to save 10% off your order. Sawyer Micro Sawyer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Video The Sierra is snowy Chaunce's PCT 2017 Video As It Happens Start interview with Evan Haut aka Gummy Bear Trail name origin What drew you to hike the PCT - love of travel, liked camping better than partying aspects of festivals he had been going to Gay pride bandana attached to pack - important to have it on there after talking to other hikers in town who were hesitant/uncomfortable being open - prior to flag, felt like only gay person on trail, post flag, had a lot of people opening up and talking to him about it - ‘was nice to know they had someone they could talk to about it’ Discouragement and doubt around ability to be successful based on his weight - people becoming more supportive once he reached KM bc they stopped doubting as much Hard to find clothing for his size (3XL) Columbia and New Balance do good jobs of accommodating big/tall people Highest mile day: 24 How he trained - day hiking, this year: 3-4hrs a day at the gym (quit job and just training now) Section hike of the PCT - what’s done and what’s left Water carries for a slower/heavier hiker: how much he carried, obstacles, having to skip sections due to inability to carry enough water Deciding to be a section hiker, and feelings around that Clothing carried Smartwool 250g top and bottoms Outdoor Helium II Things he would’ve changed if he could re-prep for PCT Start in trail runners, doing the trail sooner - wouldn’t have had the motivation to train the way he needed to do it bc he wouldn’t have known what he was signing up for Fitness vs budget - one of the biggest downfalls yo hiking slow Vegan on trail apart from beef jerky Northbay Trading Co. Mother Earth Foods Section hikers were less arrogant, but didn’t realize that until Washington Reasons why other hikers ask about start dates Theory on why he had worse reactions as an overweight hiker than a gay hiker The different ways long distance hiking takes a toll on your body when you’re overweight AZT as prep for PCT Quick overview of the Arizona Trail Ways the hiking community can be more accepting to section hikers / plus sized hikers / gay hikers LGBTQ Facebook Group Use code "TREK5" to save 5% at zpacks.com Triple crown of things to freak out about before leaving for a thru-hike Mailbag Pacific Crest Trail Resupply Guide by Maggie Wallace Check out Trail Correspondents! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Gummy Bear on Facebook. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

Today's show is a special edition, an experiment, and a community-sourced show, all rolled into one giant tortilla, hiker trash style. A few months ago, we put a call out to The Trek's bloggers and vloggers to share their top tips for someone who's about to embark on a thru-hike. Tis the season. As you will see, this advice runs the gamut, and can often even be contradictory to one another. The reason for this is simple, there is no one single approach to successfully thru-hiking. That said, I do think there's tremendous value in listening to the insight of those who've walked the walk, as you can pick and choose what resonated with you, test different approaches, keep what works, and discard the rest. Additional resources:  Apply to be a Trek Blogger or Vlogger (upcoming or current thru-hiker) Apply to be a Trek Writer (completed thru-hiker or equivalent experience) In today's show, you hear advice from: Me  Chaunce  Danny Strayer Audrey Payne Grizzly Melanie Harsha Jennifer Gardner Allison DiVerde Christy Kintzel Jenni Thompson Rebecca Burns Brandon Chase Kate Emmons Sarah Legg Kate Mueller Katie Elder Kelsy Filler Meredith Johnson Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Music via.

In today's special Valentine's Day episode of Backpacker Radio, we sit down with Grizzly and Jenna, a couple due to hike the Pacific Crest Trail and Colorado Trail this year.  We learn about how they plan to keep the love alive in the midst of 3,000 miles of backpacking.  We also breakdown how to hike 30 miles in a day, and talk a whole lot about orgies on trail. It's a very sexy show, so grab the chocolate and the oysters, and pull up a seat. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Sawyer Permethrin Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze TRAIL CORRESPONDENTS! AT FAQ: Resupply boxes? How many and where do I send them? Where to send resupply boxes on the Appalachian Trail Thru-hiking = many section hikes Interview with Michael "Grizzly" Ivey and Jenna Duesterhoeft Backpacking backgrounds Jenna: Superior Hiking Trail Grizzly: JMT, PCT, CT, SHT, part of CDT / upcoming: PCT then CT Having to push back the PCT from 2018 to 2019 due to illness How they’re preparing Concerns for their relationship? That time Grizzly chased a grizzly bear Considerations that tall hikers (6’5) that rest of us don’t have to think about  Big 3: Grizzly: Zpacks Duplex, Pa'lante Simple Pack, Katabatic Sawatch Jenna: Sharing tent, Katabatic Sawatch, Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest, Therm-a-rest NeoAir Xlite Stoveless backpacking and cold soaking method / foods Time constraints to accomplish both the PCT and CT in one summer Concerns of burning out by CT? Trek propaganda How to conquer 30 mile days regardless of hiking speed  Thermarest Uberlite Review / Comparison Video The 4-state challenge Questions from Chaunce's sorority sisters Tent orgies 5 star reviews  Jenna's SHT profile Jenna's Canyonlands profile Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!   Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon! A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Michael W Hinkley, S11N, Sawyer Products, and Travis Smith A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner and Peter Leven Follow Grizzly, Jenna, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we sit down with Teresa Martinez, the executive director at the Continental Divide Trail Coalition.  We talk all things CDT, including the future of the trail, the biggest threats to its continued development, Teresa's favorite stretch of trail, and way more.  We also talk through some layering strategies for the Appalachian Trail, and Chaunce gives us a primer on vlogging etiquette.  We close out the show by featuring your questions via Instagram. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Use code "TREK15" at GossamerGear.com to save 15% Sawyer Permethrin Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Recommended AT base layer options for guys and ladies.  Interview with Teresa Martinez of the Continental Divide Trail Coalition Worked at the ATC Transition from the CDTA to CDTC The CDT is 3100 miles long, starts in boot heel of New Mexico to Glacier National Park in Montana - Mexico to Canada Logistics of entering Canada after CDT vs PCT What does job look like as executive director of CDTC Why there are fewer people on the CDT than on the PCT or AT Differences between the ATC and CDTC “Focus on protecting the corridor and everything else will follow” The CDT Corridor: congress created the CDT and said from the physical 18-24 inch tread of the trail, a 1/2 mile from either side of it - 1 mile wide - 1.9 million acres of land to protect experience around CDT What percent of the trail is complete today What are the threats to the trail  Teresa's favorite section of CDT That time Teresa had a gun pulled on her CDT Kickoff - April 26-28 Favorite book: Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey Head to continentaldividetrail.org to donate or learn how you can volunteer Land and Water Conservation Fund New sponsor! Greenbelly.co  Use code "TREK15" at checkout to save 15% Trek Propaganda Vlogging Etiquette (by Chaunce!): Tips to not let your vlog affect other hikers’ experiences Emergency Q&A Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR TRAIL CORRESPONDENTS TO DROP ON 2/8/19!!!   Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon! A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Travis Smith, and S11N. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Andre Oosthuizen, Randy Harter, and Peter Leven Follow The Continental Divide Trail Coalition, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. Intro music via.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, the Cinnamon Connection catches up with Bill Manning, the Executive Director at the Colorado Trail foundation. We do a deep dive on all things Colorado Trail related, including the best time to hike the trail, the biggest mistakes aspiring thru-hikers make, and the inner workings for keeping such a beautiful trail afloat. Chaunce lets us in on a mega surprise, and we cover the most popular sleeping bags used on the AT last year. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Sawyer Permethrin Sawer Micro vs. Sawyer Squeeze Chaunce's big reveal How to Get to Springer Mountain Barefoot Hills Hostel (formerly Hiker Hostel) NikWax Down Wash DownTek Products Ursack Loksak Opsak Bill Manning interview Bill’s backpacking experience - has done full length of the CT split between horse, bike, and hike Difference between cycling and hiking route Do you notice tension between the bikers and hikers How he got involved with Colorado Trail Foundation Responsibilities as executive director Difference between Trail Crews and Adopt-a-Trail Why do Trail Crews cost money? What kind of skills does someone need to work on a trail crew? The biggest challenges the CT currently faces? Biggest mistakes Bill sees people make who want to thru-hike the CT Recommendations for dealing with altitude NOBO / SOBO/ SWOBO / NEBO? How has the trail changed since Bill's involvement with the CTF How have hikers changed Story of Gudy Gaskill Collegiate East vs Collegiate West Bill’s favorite section of trail What does the future of the Colorado Trail look like? What to do if you see a moose. What’s the most bizarre story Bill's heard on trail? Ideal time to start the trail Ctf@coloradotrail.org Colorado Trail Photos Trek propaganda The Top Sleeping Bags, Quilts and Pads on the Appalachian Trail TOP BRANDS 1. Enlightened Equipment 2. Rei 3. Kelty and Big Agnes TOP SLEEPING BAG MODELS 1. Kelty Cosmic 2. Zpacks Classic (hybrid quilt and sleeping bag) 3. REI Joule and REI Magma TOP QUILTS 1. EE Revelation TOP SLEEPING PADS Therm-a-Rest NeoAire Xlite, followed by the Z-lite Fan mail (podcast@thetrek.co) 5-Star Reviews     Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon! A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Travis Smith, and S11N. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Andre Oosthuizen, Randy Harter, and Peter Leven Follow The Colorado Trail Foundation, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, Chaunce sits down with famed PCT trail angels, Scout and Frodo. We get an in depth look at Scout's new book, "The Continental Divide Trail: Exploring America's Ridgeline Trail", his passion for writing, and we learn about the first person to hike the Continental Divide. We also cover the most popular tents used by 2018 Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, and get into a new segment, Forgotten Internet Holidays. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Barney Scout's website The Pacific Crest Trail: Exploring America's Wilderness Trail PCT fun fact: Three deepest lakes in the US also cross paths with the PCT - Lake Tahoe, Crater Lake , and Lake Chelan  Interview with Scout and Frodo Nepal trip - Everest basecamp Everest basecamp route - about two weeks, most popular route Three passes route - includes Chola pass Scout's new book - The Continental Divide Trail: Exploring America's Ridgeline Trail The Top Tents on the Appalachian Trail Top brands 1) Big Agnes 2) Zpacks 3) Nemo Top 1 person Tents 1) Big Agnes Fly Creek HV UL1 2) REI Quarterdome 3) Six Moons Designs Lunar Solo Top 2 person Tents: 1) Z-Packs Duplex 2) Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2 3) Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2  Watch out for the Tiger Wall Forgotten Internet Holidays  Jan 4 - National Spaghetti Jan 8 - National Double Chin Day Jan 12 - National Kiss a Ginger Day Feb 10 - Selfie Next to a Toilet Day Feb 20 - National Love Your Pet Day March 9 - International Flirtini Day March 14 - Steak and BJ Day April 8 - Steal a Dollar from Your Friend Day April 14 - Cake and Cunnilingus Day April 20 - Lima Bean Respect Day June 4 - International Crossdress on Trail Day Sept 15 - National Let Your Dog Lick Your Open Mouth Day October 13 - National No Bra Day Nov 17 - World Danny Devito Appreciation Day   Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon! A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products and Tama Lama Ding Dong. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Andre Oosthuizen, Randy Harter, and Peter Leven Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

A life changing adventure is merely a decision away. That's the takeaway lesson from today's interview with Bethany Hughes, who just a few years ago, was running the books at her local H&R Block and miserable for it. Fast forward to December 2018- she just completed trekking the length of South America- just the first piece of her goal to travel the length of the Americas by non-motorized means.  We learn all about this adventure and all the the incredible stories and lessons that come with it.  We also get into some Trek Propaganda featuring the top footwear amongst 2018 Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, the triple crown of under-appreciated gear items, and a listener enlightens us about Norwegians preferred alcohol. Subjects discussed in today's show include: Gossamer Gear Anniversary Video Sawyer Micro Squeeze vs. Sawyer Squeeze Wayfinder Her Odyssey Website Missions statement: "Traversing the length of the Americas by non motorized means, connecting stories of the land and its inhabitants." Beagle channel Tierra del Fuego 300km practice Greater Patagonia Trail Qhapaq Ñan - ancient Incan road system - took this all the way up to panama Current task: figure out how to safely cross Central America Fidgit to hike the CDT through USA and Neon bikepacks Great Divide Trail Possibly paddling McKenzie river up to Alaska then following the pipelines to the northern most point How she got this idea - back to Kansas City working at HR Block and had moment reading where it came to her - grew up and was raised in the mountains of South America, spent time in North America running sled dogs in Alaska Stories that have stood out to her Man with bread on horse at Christmas Family giving them coffee and took off their socks to dry in Patagonia Long distance journeys and having / letting go of plans Being a white woman in South America and the privilege that comes with it Advice: Trust your instincts and listening to your gut Scary stories and their “rules” to not look vulnerable Reasoning to bike Mexico Highlights thus far Ratio trail to road to route finding Stealth camping Coca leaves leaves in Columbia Dealing with concerned family members Financials and funding Big 3: Hyperlite Southwest Pack Hyperlite shelter (prototype) Feathered Friends crossover sleeping bag quilt Prior backpacking experience South America growing up with her dad taking her into mountains Guided for Boy Scouts PCT How the outdoors helped her mental health and replaced medications How she got her trail name Trek Propaganda: The Top Footwear on the Appalachian Trail Top brands: Altra Salomon Brooks Top Models: Lone Peak Merrell Moabs  Brooks Cascadia Mt Rushmore of under-appreciated gear items Leukotape Gossamer Gear shoulder strap pocket Asian street market spoons Plastic Vargo Bot Ziplock bags Nail clippers Caffeine supplements Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pods Honorable mentions: Extra socks Zpacks stuff sack with fleece lining "Pillow Bag" Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon! A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products and Tama Lama Ding Dong. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Andre Oosthuizen, Randy Harter, and Peter Leven Follow Her Odyssey, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Starting a thru-hike without any prior backpacking experience, although not entirely rare, is a brave endeavor.  To string three consecutive thru-hikes back-to-back-to-back is a whole other level of insanity.  Today’s guest accomplished just that.  Without any prior backpacking experience, Mike “Kickstand” Papadatos decided that instead of starting with the AT, PCT, or CDT, that he’d string them all together in a calendar year.  The Paprika Pals sat down to learn what inspired him to jump headfirst into the world of extreme long distance backpacking, the challenges he faced along the way, and the evolution of his gear throughout the journey.  We then touch on some thru-hiker transformations in The Trek Propaganda segment and learn about the trio’s Triple Crown Of hangover remedies. Subjects discussed in today’s show include: New Sponsor: Gossamer Gear. Use coupon code TREK15 at checkout to save 15% at GossamgerGear.com Sawyer Micro Squeeze Filter Sawyer Micro Squeeze vs Sawyer Squeeze Filter Comparison Video Animal Years (the awesome band behind Walking Slow) 2019 Trail Correspondents Application Kickstand poop pose Gear changes depending on trail Started on AT on Jan 31st The logistics: AT Jan 31 start date, bailed from snow, flew to New Mexico Started CDT April 14, got off in Creede (1300ish miles) Started PCT May 14, finished PCT in 80 days + 7 days off (August 11 end date) Finished 520 miles of AT, 92 days total SOBO’d remainder of CDT, finished October 26 Spent $15k total Four Calendar Triple Crowners in 2018 Biggest mile day (57), 11 total zeros Fire closures and snow and road walks Gear: Pack: Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest Tent: Big Agnes Flycreek 1 Quilt: Katabatic Flex 22 Footwear: Altra Lone Peak 3.5s Follow Kickstand on Instagram Thru-Hiker Transformations Triple crown of hangover remedies Thrive Hangover Pills Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon! A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products and Tama Lama Ding Dong. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Andre Oosthuizen, Randy Harter, and Peter Leven Follow Mike Papadatos, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

This is it. The end. Our final episode of the season. A thru-hike is- typically speaking- a half year adventure. In the midst of this journey, that feels like a very long time. Certainly long enough to adapt to an entirely different way of life. In the spectrum of one's life, however, it's just a blink of an eye (God willing). Which is why I think today's episode might be my favorite yet. Today we hear from our hikers a couple weeks (or more) removed from their treks. We learn how the lessons and habits of their former lives have bled over into "the real world". Of course soaking up the adventure for what it is, while it's happening, is of utmost importance- but in my perspective, it's how these hikes alter someone's world long after they've left the trail that's of most interest. Our correspondents reflects back on their hikes and the chasm between this former world and their current. And lastly- we'll hear from Jeffrey Garmire aka Legend, who recently completed The Great Western Loop. His update is brief, but the emotion is strong, you can hear it especially in his sign-off. In today's show, we hear from: Jacob Beaver Kate Mueller aka Sassafras  IBTAT Madeline Newel Miles to Go Kate Emmons Lukas Isaacson Sarah Mowery Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano Jeffrey "Legend" Garmire APPLICATION FOR 2019 TRAIL CORRESPONDENTS You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co.   Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products and Tama Lama Ding Dong. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Andre Oosthuizen, Randy Harter, and Peter Leven Episode produced by Pauly Boy Shallcross. Check out his coffee roaster, Old Man Murph's.   Music via.

Today's guest is very fitting for our 23rd episode, since she is arguably the Michael Jordan of backpacking.  In a world where setting just one FKT (fastest known time) is a lifetime achievement, Heather "Anish" Anderson has set the self-supported FKT on the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Arizona Trail.  She is also in a small, exclusive club of triple triple crowners- those who've hiked each of the triple crown trails three times each.  And most recently, she became the newest member of the Calendar Triple club, to hike all three triple crown trails in a single calendar year.  And this is just the tip of her backpacking resume iceberg.  In other words, Anish is the GOAT, and we were blessed to borrow a few minutes of her time to talk about her current 8,000 mile journey.  Additionally, we get into a bit of Trek propaganda, get into the 2nd edition of Patent Pending, and we hear from friend of the show Steven "Twinkle" Shattuck, as he dirtbags across the globe with his wife. Subjects discussed in today's show include: New Sponsor: Gossamer Gear. Use coupon code TREK15 at checkout to save 15% at GossamgerGear.com Sawyer Micro Squeeze Filter Sawyer Micro Squeeze vs Sawyer Squeeze Filter Comparison Video Michael Jordan Episode The Grayson Highland's Wild Ponies aren't so "Wild" 21 Fascinating Appalachian Trail Facts Heather "Anish" Anderson FKT = fastest known time- jargon for speed record Calendar Triple Therm-a-Rest NeoAir UberLite vs. Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite Patent Pending Steven Twinkle Shattuck on Episode 6 Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products and Tama Lama Ding Dong. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Randy Harter, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven Intro music via.

If this episode doesn't give you goosebumps, seek medical attention.  Today we hear from our hikers at the end of their journeys.  More specifically, they give us two different check ins- the night before their last day on trail, and from the summit itself.  As you can imagine, this is an emotional moment for any thru-hiker.  Although the journey is the destination, the destination is the goal, to succeed at this near half-year pursuit toward a single, tangible end is good reason for a heart-felt outpour. In today's show, we hear from: Jacob Beaver Kate Mueller aka Sassafras  IBTAT Madeline Newel Kate Emmons Lukas Isaacson Sarah Mowery Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products and Tama Lama Ding Dong. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Randy Harter, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven Episode produced by Pauly Boy Shallcross. Check out his coffee roaster, Old Man Murph's.   Music via.

What's it like to build the most ubiquitous in the hiking community?  Today we learn that answer as we're joined by Ryan Linn, more commonly known as Guthook, one of the people behind the "Guthook App", the uber-popular navigation app, especially amongst thru-hikers.  He shares his background in backpacking and thru-hiking, the inspiration for the creation of the app, his coding background, and what lies in store for the future of the app. We also talk about Jennifer Pharr Davis' wonderful article on Health Insurance Options for Thru-Hikers, an illustration outlining five ways to poop in the woods, and the ranking of New Hampshire's 48 4,000 foot peaks. We close out the show with a heated Triple Crown of Thanksgiving Foods and some mailbag questions.   Subjects discussed in today's show include: Sawyer Micro Squeeze Filter Let's talk about Treks, baby!  (also poo and pee) Chaunce stole my ice axe Chaunce is a segment short of finishing the CT Guthook's Apps AWOL's Guide Guthook or Guthooks? [VOTE] Health Insurance Options for Long Distance Backpackers APPLY to be a Trek Blogger or Vlogger 5 Ways to Poop in the Woods, an Illustration New Hampshire’s 48 4,000-Footers, Ranked Triple Crown of Thanksgiving Foods Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Support us on Patreon! A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Tama Lama Ding Dong A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, Randy Harter and Peter Leven. Follow Guthook's Apps, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Diversity on the trail is a heavy, but important subject. It's impossible to do this subject justice in the span of an hour long podcast, but it's a conversation worth having nonetheless. Our correspondents share their thoughts about the diversity -or lack thereof- that they've encountered on trail.  Our hikers also ponder ways the community can encourage under-represented groups to get onto the trail.  Admittedly- our correspondents largely follow the demographics of the thru-hiking community at large- which is to say young and white. Though one of our hikers is visiting from across the pond and another is gay- and we've got more female correspondents than male when the trail skews the other way. But in terms of racial diversity, there's none.  We were fortunate to get the input of Elsye "Chardonnay" Walker, who's one of the few (if not the only) black woman to hike the triple crown.   She shares her take on these same questions, which offers some interesting contrast to the other stances offered in this episode.   Lastly, we get an update from Jeffrey "Legend" Garmire, who's on the tail end of his Great Western Loop journey, a 6,875-mile footpath across the western half of the USA. The path, popularized by Andrew Skurka, links five existing trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, & Arizona Trail, as well as some route finding through the Sonoran and Mojave Deserts. In today's show, we hear from: Jacob Beaver Kate Mueller aka Sassafras  IBTAT Madeline Newel Kate Emmons Lukas Isaacson Sarah Mowery Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano   You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, Peter Leven Episode produced by Pauly Boy Shallcross. Check out his coffee roaster, Old Man Murph's.   Music via.

What does it take to turn a thru-hike turns into an 18-month adventure?  That's the central theme of today's show, as the Cinnamon Connection is joined by Nathan "Puma" Bauman- who, after hiking the Appalachian Trail, next hiked on the Continental Divide Trail, Long Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail within a year and a half span.  We talk about the differences between the three triple crown trails, what it's like to quit on a thru-hike, why the Long Trail is the most difficult trail Puma's encountered, and some tips for aspiring trail-photographers.  We chat briefly about the 2018 AT Hiker Survey, AT completion and PCT completion photos.  The show wraps up with the second edition of The Triple Crown Of, where we share our favorite trail magic items.  Subjects discussed in today's show include: Sawyer Micro Squeeze Filter Intro to Puma His SOBO CDT hike How he finances hiking all the time Frugality on trail vs off trail Ultralight base weight Current Big 3 Palante Simple Pack V2 Enlightened Equipment Enigma 10 Degree SMD Deschutes Tarp Appalachian Trail Big 3 Osprey Exos 48 Nemo Hornet 1p Nemo Nocturne NeoAir Xlite Gossamer Gear The One Photography gear and why it’s different to bring a real camera over an iPhone Sony A7ii 85mm 1.8f 28mm f2 Rhode mic Editing photos on Trail - lightning sd to phone port - editing RAW photos on iPhones using that converter / Adobe Lightroom mobile & editing presets (filters) to make the process easier Twerk Instagram Click Instagram His failed PCT hike 2018 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Survey Send Completion photos to editors@thetrek.co Anonymous hiker poop stories Top Trail magic Guy proposes in The Whites video Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven. Follow Puma, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

In today's show, our hikers discuss the evolution of their hiking groups over the course of their journeys.  Injuries occur, people grow apart, paces differ, life happens.  You get to learn the ins and outs of how and why this happens directly from the mouths of our hikers.  Also, we say farewell to another of our trail correspondents.  You'll get to hear who's getting off- and why- at the end of our hikers' updates. In today's show, we hear from: Jacob Beaver Kate Mueller aka Sassafras  IBTAT Madeline Newel Miles Bisher aka "Miles To Go" Kate Emmons Lukas Isaacson Sarah Mowery Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, Peter Leven Episode produced by Pauly Boy Shallcross. Check out his coffee roaster, Old Man Murph's.  Music via.

Reoccurring guest The Real Hiking Viking joins the Turmeric Team to chat about his recent attempt at an FKT (fastest known time) on the Colorado Trail.  The interview kicks off with a short discussion we had before he left for his yo-yo hike- to get a feel for his nerves going into this ambitious undertaking.  We chat about what ultimately went wrong (spoiler alert), what he would do differently in his future attempt, and FKT culture and requirements.  The show ends with the unveiling of a new series, "The Triple Crown of...", where we showcase the things that can most fuck up a hiker's day on trail. Subjects discussed in today's episode include:  Sawyer 30 SPF Sunscreen 1 oz. tubes What food Jabba carried on his attempt Jabba's overloaded pack (below) What gear was carried Mountain Smith Jabba (official name TBD) What improvements would be made for next time Trans Adirondack Route The Barkley Marathons GPS Trackers for FKTs The FKT governing website Triple Crown of things that fuck up your day Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products and Meg Jarboe A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven. Follow Piers Ellison, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Before leaving for a long distance trek, it's common for people to envision worst case scenario. For Piers Ellison, on his 2016 PCT hike, this fear became a reality when he was bitten by a brown recluse spider.  In episode 19, we talk in depth about this nightmare, how he hiked the entire PCT while carrying his guitar, the challenges an international hiker must confront in order to trek one of the United States' long trails, and finally, Piers delights us by playing a pair of songs from his new EP "Distance".  Also, Chaunce is drunk.  Subjects discussed include: Sawyer Picaridin Packets Jabba Demolishes a Z-Packs Carbon Fiber Staff [Video] Piers Soundcloud Song Piers wonderful album "Distance" available on Spotify (free) and iTunes Atom Packs in the UK UL Outdoor Gear Online Outfitter B1/B2 Visa for thru-hiking Additional Considerations for International Hikers As It Happens Documentary This is Not a Beautiful Thru-Hike Video Do More with Less Piers on Instagram Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven. Follow Piers Ellison, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

  Technology on a thru-hike.  Combining these words tends to rouse some heated debate.  Some people abstain entirely from technology during their hikes, opting only to keep in touch with loved ones while in town.  Some are nearly constantly plugged in, listening to music and/or podcasts all day, posting Instagram updates every time they get service, constantly checking Guthook's app, even watching movies in their tents at night.  Most thru-hikers fall somewhere in the middle. We check in with our hikers to get their take.  Specifically how they interact with technology on trail, how they witness their fellow hikers using it, and whether it's ultimately good or bad for the hiking community at large.  Their answers shine good insight on this seemingly paradoxical relationship with devices in the backcountry. In today's show, we hear from: Jacob Beaver Kate Mueller aka Sassafras  IBTAT Madeline Newel Miles Bisher aka "Miles To Go" Kate Emmons Lukas Isaacson Sarah Mowery Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano   You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, Peter Leven Episode produced by Pauly Boy Shallcross. Check out his coffee roaster, Old Man Murph's.   Music via.

What's in store for the future of the Appalachian Trail?  This is one of the primary topics in today's episode of Backpacker Radio, as the Cinnamon Connection are joined by Andrew Downs, the Central and Southwest Virginia Regional Director at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.  We also talk about the unintended negative consequences of trail magic, thru-hiker entitlement, Leave No Trace, bear canister regulations on the Appalachian Trail, how people can most effectively give back to the AT, and embarrassing chaffing and poop stories. Subjects discussed include: The man who fatally fell off McAfee Knob A woman who got mauled by a bear in the Greyson Highlands How to manage chafing and ass hair (don't light it on fire) The pros and cons of more people hitting the trail Thru-hiker entitlement Trail angels and responsible trail magic Giving back with trail maintenance work What the ATC is and what it does Local clubs that maintain the trails Ridgerunners on the AT The biggest challenges the AT faces today Potential for bear canisters on AT ‘Hardcore’ and connecting current hikers to trail work Bob Peoples: the Chuck Norris of the AT The spending report for the ATC Golden Rules of Thru-Hikers The Thru-Hiker's Code of Conduct Mt Shasta first official PCT town article Send your question for Andrew to editors@thetrek.co Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven. Follow Andrew Downs, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Many people's perception of the thru-hiking lifestyle comes via social media, where people are more likely to portray the the cheery, positive aspects of this undertaking. You see the breathtaking views, the smiling faces, the slender bodies, and the hiker camaraderie. What you often don't see is the chafing, the injuries, dehydration, never ending rain, the heat, the cold, what it's like to get sick on trail, the attrition, loneliness, sleep deprivation, home sickness, a lack of motivation, and the bugs- oh god, the dense clouds of motherfucking mosquitoes. Well, that's the point of today's show. Thru-hiking is always rewarding, but it may not always be pretty. Here's some of its darker underbelly. In today's show, we hear from: Jacob Beaver Kate Mueller aka Sassafras  IBTAT Madeline Newel Miles Bisher aka "Miles To Go" Kate Emmons Lukas Isaacson Sarah Mowery Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano   You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, Peter Leven Episode produced by Pauly Boy Shallcross. Check out his coffee roaster, Old Man Murph's.  Music via.

A sad, yet seemingly inevitable byproduct of long distance backpacking is pain and injury.  Though it's not a guarantee, to escape a long distance trek without one of the two or both is a rare feat. Consequently, two popular questions for thru-hikers are how to prevent injury while on trail and what to do about it once an injury manifests.  In episode 17 of Backpacker Radio, the Paprika Pals are joined by Dr. Emily Kelly, a physical therapist based in Centennial, Colorado.  She answers Badger and Chaunce's selfish injury related questions, along with a slew of others sent in from Writers and Bloggers at The Trek. If you're dealing with a hiking-related injury or are looking for ways to reduce your injury risk, there's some valuable insight in this podcast for you. Subjects discussed include: Vermont is the 14th state and insecure about its cheese quality relative to Wisconsin REI's Hawaiian shirts are too dude centric Grizel gets hit by an RV Emily Kelly DPT at Fit Physical Therapy in Centennial, CO Meniscus Bucket Handle Tear SPECIFIC QUESTIONS How long after ACL reconstruction can someone get back into hiking? If you sustain an ankle injury such as a strain or sprain while on trail, is it safe to keep hiking, and if so, what steps can be taken to promote healing and avoid further injury, while continuing to backpack? If you HAVE to get off trail, what steps can be taken at home to do the same, as well as to condition yourself to return to hiking as quickly as possible? I had an ACL reconstruction done a few months ago, and am struggling to get my quad and other “hiking” muscles to come back. What is the best way to work on getting these back so that as soon as I am cleared, I can get back on trail as quickly as possible? Knee injuries are incredibly common amongst long distance backpackers. What are the most common causes of knee pain for backpackers; how best to treat them, and what exercises can be done prior to hitting the trail to strengthen the knees? I have herniated disks between shoulder blades and in cervical spine that compress and push on spinal nerve after prolonged hiking. Strengthening muscles around area helps with daily pain but prolonged backpacking causes sharp severe pain. Is there a high potential for causing more damage by backpacking? What advice, stretches, forms, weight placement of items in backpack would they suggest to minimize pain? What are your thoughts about people starting a thru-hike while recovering from existing injuries? What kind of mobility aids they would recommend bringing on a hike to treat your own injuries? What are the top concerns you have (or deals with) regarding hikers. When should you work through pain in injury recovery vs. use pain as indicator to stop pushing? Top stretches for our aching hiker bodies?  Does time of day matter? The best way to deal with osteoarthritis in back/hip, knees and feet. The grinding of the joints is somewhat painful after a few 12-15 mile days and I cannot take ibuprofen. I got off the trail in May due to back pain. I had a spinal fusion with harrington rods at age 8 and again at 13. I've been told by chiropractor that I would cripple myself if I continued. I recently saw an orthopedic spine  specialist that said I can do anything I want as long as I could handle the pain of it. What Do I do??? I miss the trail so much. I am full out depressed being in the real world. Advice for IT band pain?  Both on trail and at home. How to Physically Prepare for a thru-hike. Achilles Tendinitis- best stretches and how to use KT tape for treatment. Best way to transition yourself back to life off the trail? Exercises, etc. Altra Lone Peak The CDT section of The Trek Apply to be The Trek's Youtube Personality Ways to get involved with The Trek Terrific Proposal Photo on the AT Patent Pending! Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio? Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. This episode was recorded at Wayfinder Co-op. Intro song Walking Slow by Animal Years. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven. Follow Furball, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today's episode is our most uplifting to date.  That's because our thru-hikers have been tasked with describing the highs of their journey.  Specifically, we learn what keeps them going- what they most look forward to each day- and what they think they'll miss most once their journey is over. So hop on your unicorn and get ready to ride the rainbow because you're about to get filled with a healthy dose of joy.  Here it is. In today's show, we hear from: Kate Mueller aka Sassafras  Jacob Beaver Lauren Peruffo aka Fainting Goat IBTAT Gwen Nitya Miles Bisher aka "Miles To Go" Kate Emmons Lukas Isaacson Madeline Newel Sarah Mowery Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano   You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, Peter Leven Episode produced by Pauly Boy Shallcross.  Music via.

In Episode 16 the Paprika Pals sit down with Nadia “Furball” Westenburg to talk about the pros and cons of thru-hiking with a dog. She also regales with tales from the West Highland Way and Tour du Mont Blanc, both European trails which Furball has trekked. Also, Chaunce catches us up on her Colorado Trail section hike while Zach sulks about his upcoming knee surgery, and what that means for his future hiking plans.  They also explain some of the common lingo used in the thru-hiking world.  Lastly, the gang get into a contentious game of Would You Rather. Topics in discussed include: The perils of improper glissading The West Highland Way Tour Du Mont Blanc The perils of glissading (Furball eats shit) Bringing a dog on trail both domestically and abroad United will ship your dog to the wrong place or kill it Pet peeves (pun intended) of encountering dogs on trail Dog CPR  100 Days on the PCT Thru-Hiker Glossary Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. This episode was recorded at Wayfinder Co-op. Intro song Walking Slow by Animal Years. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Evaristo Villela A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven. Follow Furball, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today's episode hits on some subjects that are often top of mind for thru-hikers and those curious about the undertaking. They are: food, how hikers' bodies change over the course of their hike, and gear. We learn more about the infamous hiker hunger, the "eat anything and everything and still lose weight diet", how their getup has evolved over the course of their hike, and what gear they've sent home. And lastly, we get an emotional goodbye from one of our correspondents- as the injuries have piled up and become too much to bear.  In today's show, we hear from: Kate Mueller aka Sassafras  Jacob Beaver Lauren Peruffo aka Fainting Goat IBTAT Gwen Nitya Miles Bisher aka "Miles To Go" Kate Emmons Lukas Isaacson Madeline Newel Sarah Mowery Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano   You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Evaristo Villela A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, Peter Leven This episode is edited by Pauly Boy Shallcross and co-produced by Maggie Slepian. 

In today's edition of Backpacker Radio, Badger and Chaunce are joined by trail legend, the former supported Appalachian Trail FKT record holder, author, and National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, Jennifer Pharr Davis.  We go way down the rabbit hole about the subjects discussed in her new book, The Pursuit for Endurance. We also find out which is more painful between setting a FKT and bearing a child, what her current go-to gear is, and what goes into a successful relationship.  We then talk about some of the best backpacks for thru-hikers, what our go-to clothing system was for the Pacific Crest Trail, and how you can hang out with Badger and Chaunce in Denver on July 24th. Subjects discussed in today's episode include: Gear and Beer event in Denver on 7/24 at Wayfinder Co-op The Pursuit of Endurance: Harnessing the Record-Breaking Power of Strength and Resilience All of JPD's Books Ray Jardine FKT's Explained David Horton Courtney Dauwalter interview on The Trek Jennifer Pharr Davis' mailbag column Warren Doyle is the OG antagonist  Zach's Mom The 5 Love Languages The Best Backpacks for Thru-Hikers Some good clothes for the PCT Badger's PCT Gear Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. This episode was recorded at Wayfinder Co-op. Intro song Walking Slow by Animal Years. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Evaristo Villela A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven. Follow Jennifer Pharr Davis, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Maybe don't listen to this podcast during your lunch because Chaunce has an all-timer poop story. Also on episode 14 of Backpacker Radio, the Cinnamon Connection is joined by 2016 Appalachian Trail thru-hiker and 2017 Pacific Crest Trail thru-hiker John "Data" Harvey.  Data discusses the differences between hiking SOBO and NOBO on the two trails, how his love for thru-hiking has transitioned into ultra-running, and what it's like to hike during a drought and a record-high snow in consecutive years.  We chat about the importance of the Land and Water Conservation Fund to the Appalachian Trail (an article written by episode 8 guest, Laura "Hey Girl" Johnston).  Lastly, we celebrate our 100,000th download by challenging our guest to a good old fashioned game of "truth or dare, but not dare" aka keep it a'hundid. Topics discussed include: Silicone wedding rings so you keep all your digits Data's Instagram Bonus Episode 2 MLD Duomid Big Agnes Fly Creek UL2 Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 2400 REI Quarter Dome 1 Enlightened Equipment Quilt Nolan's 14 Land and Water Conservation Fund and it's impact on the AT by Hey Girl Meat Eater Podcast Ep 116 with Senator Heinreich Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. This episode was recorded at Wayfinder Co-op. Intro song Walking Slow by Animal Years. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Evaristo Villela A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven. Follow Data, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

This is a fun episode, as our hikers were tasked only to report on whatever subject was at the forefront of their minds.  The instructions were loose and the results are broad, in the most entertaining way possible.  Topics discussed include the simultaneous love and disdain for ukuleles, the selflessness of the hiking community, the 24 x 24 x 24 challenge, why hikers complain, a comparison of the AT, PCT, and CDT from a pair of soon to be triple crowners, what it's like to go through a mental rut on trail and how to dig yourself out, and much, much more. In today's show, we hear from:  Kate Mueller aka Sassafras  IBTAT Lauren Peruffo aka Fainting Goat Gwen Nitya Jacob Beaver Sarah Mowery Miles Bisher aka "Miles To Go" Kate Emmons Madeline Newel Lukas Isaacson Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano Get previous Trail Correspondents episodes here.    You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram.   Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Evaristo Villela A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, Peter Leven Episode produced by Pauly Boy Shallcross.  

"Thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail is just section hiking the earth." - The Real Hiking Viking If Comic Con and Burning Man had a baby- and that baby was raised on the Appalachian Trail- this festival baby would be none other than Trail Days.  And that's precisely the recording location of Episode 13 of Backpacker Radio.  Badger is joined by The Real Hiking Viking as well as the dynamic duo of Stories from the Trail, Gary Sizer and Megan Thompson, to talk about Trail Days, thru-hiking, the military, The Lone Star Trail (again, unfortunately), FKT training for the Colorado Trail, and much more.  Weaved throughout the episode are interviews with 2018 AT thru-hikers, touching on their favorite moments from their journey so far.  And last but certainly not least is a conversation with Tom Kennedy, co-founder of Hike for Mental Health, an organization dedicated to eliminating the stigma of mental health disorders while raising money for research, and promoting the health benefits of being out in nature. The show is brought to you by Sawyer and fueled by whiskey. Topics in this episode include:  Stories from the Trail Podcast Gary "Green Giant" Sizer's before and after photo Where is the Next Shelter (Gary's first book) The Best Beards from the Appalachian Trail Hike for Mental Health FKT Proboards and their new site FKTs Explained Liz Kidder's favorite piece of gear: The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest Backpack Wilt's favorite piece of gear: Patagonia's R1 Hoody Appalachian Trials Yard Sale aka Ashley Manning Stories from the Trail Episode with Miss Janet Badger's Interview with Miss Janet IBTAT Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. This episode was recorded at Wayfinder Co-op. Intro song Walking Slow by Animal Years. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Evaristo Villela A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven. Follow The Real Hiking Viking, Gary Sizer, Megan Thompson, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Niki "Bionic Woman" Rellon is the first woman to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail on a prosthetic leg.  This is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of her accomplishments and life story.  Tune in for the AT talk, stay to learn more about her life as a trained chef, paramedic, cross country cyclist, and champion kick boxer. Also, Badger and Chaunce engage in a heated battle of Iron Chef: Trail Food Edition. Show notes: Chaunce's Class of 2017 PCT Video Best places to trail magic on the PCT by Brooke Eller Photos from Bionic Woman's accident Stacey Kozel's disproven PCT thru-hike 13 Unlikely Appalachian Trail Hikers Planning a Thru-Hike from Abroad Badger's Favorite Trail Snack Recipe: Flour tortilla, peanut butter, raw honey, and trail mix (must have M&Ms, go home otherwise). Chaunce's Favorite Trail Snack Recipe: Bagel, pepper jack cheese, Fritos and Lay potato chips.  Zach and Chaunce's Iron Chef challenge Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. This episode was recorded at Wayfinder Co-op. Intro song Walking Slow by Animal Years. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Evaristo Villela A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, and Peter Leven. Follow Bionic Woman, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

When backpacking through the backcountry for months on end, there's one thing that can be relied upon: expect the unexpected.  Today's episode focuses in on exactly that- the biggest surprises from the trail.  Specifically, what caught our hikers most off guard?   This is the 2nd part of this episode where we check in with our PCT and CDT hikers. We hear from our AT hikers in the previous episode. Today we hear from: Kate Emmons (PCT) Lukas Isaacson (PCT) Madeline Newel (PCT) Miles to Go (PCT) Sarah Mowery (PCT) Rabbit (CDT)   You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products, Evaristo Villela A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Gregory Gardner, Kate Hurley, Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet, Peter Leven Episode produce by Pauly Boy Shallcross.

When backpacking through the backcountry for months on end, there's one thing that can be relied upon: expect the unexpected.  Today's episode focuses in on exactly that- the biggest surprises from the trail.  Specifically, what caught our hikers most off guard?  Today we hear from: Gwen Nitya (AT) IBTAT (AT) Fainting Goat (AT) Jake Beaver (AT)  Sassafras (AT) Emily Dutton (AT)  You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio? Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co.

Today's episode is all about how to eat right on and off trail.  We are joined by thru-hiker and soon-to-be certified holistic nutritionist, Katie "Salty" Gerber, to go way down the rabbit hole about how hikers can improve their on-trail nutrition game.  We also touch upon some of the best sleeping bags and quilts for thru-hiking, learn a bit about the Wind River High Route, and are unexpectedly joined by a homeless person. Subjects discussed in this episode include: Support us on Patreon to get future bonus shows The Tahoe Rim Trail Katie Gerber's Nutrition Articles The Wind River High Route Sweetwood Fatty! KatieGerber.com Chris Kresser Curcumin Supplement The Top Sleeping Bags and Quilts for Thru-Hikers Walking Slow by Animal Years Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. This episode was recorded at Wayfinder Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Kate Hurley, Gregory Gardner, Susan Anderson, Terrain OfSol, and Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet! Follow Katie Gerber, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today we hear from the 2nd batch of our thru-hikers about a week into their journey.  You can find the first part of this here.  2018 SOBOs: Learn how to apply HERE. Today we hear from: Jake Beaver (AT) Gwen Nitya (AT) Lukas Isaacson (PCT) Madeline (PCT) Rabbit (CDT) You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Kate Hurley, Gregory Gardner, Susan Anderson, Terrain OfSol, and Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet! Show produced by Pauly Boy Shallcross.

Backpacker Radio celebrates reaching its double digit episode birthday (?) with a bonus interview from Pacific Crest Trail super trail angel, Frodo, of Scout and Frodo fame.  But first, the crew sits down with Chaunce's PCT buddy, Ballflap, as he is mere hours away from beginning his migration to the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Topics include:  Bedrock Sandals Dickflap aka Filipe Deandrade Ballflap's Big 3 MLD Prophet Enlightened Equipment Revelation Big AgnesFlyCreek UL 1 Interview with Frodo of Scout and Frodo PCT Class of 2017 Video (edited and produced by Chaunce) The Best Tents for Thru-Hiking  The Real Hiking Viking vs. ZPacks Carbon Fiber Staff Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Kate Hurley, Gregory Gardner, Susan Anderson, Terrain OfSol, and Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet! Follow Ballflap, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Today we check in with the other half of our trail correspondents during a excitement and/or diarrhea-filled period of their journey- the night before starting their thru-hikes. Today we hear from Jake Beaver (AT) Gwen Nitya (AT) Miles to Go (PCT) Kate Emmons (PCT) Lukas Isaacson (PCT) Madeline (PCT) Rabbit (CDT) You can hear part one here. You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!   Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Kate Hurley, Gregory Gardner, Susan Anderson, Terrain OfSol, and Clint "DuctTape" Sherbet!

If you've listened to Sounds of the Trail, you already know today's guest.  Backpacker Radio is joined by Laura "Hey Girl" Johnston- an AT and PCT thru-hiker, conservationist, conversationalist, and an all-around smart and congenial gal.  Topics from this show include:  Curcumin Sounds of the Trail podcast Hey Girl's love of Patagonia Baggies Highlights from the North Carolina / Tennessee section of the Appalachian Trail 21 Facts about the AT (why the balds are bald) Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Survey Appalachian Trials Interview with Stephen Harrod Buhner author of Healing Lyme "Green goo" aka Amazing Grass superfoods powder Recorded at Wayfinder Co-op in Denver, Colorado. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!   A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Kate Hurley Follow Hey Girl, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram.   Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

Episode number 4 of our Trail Correspondents series comes directly from the trail!  Our hikers were tasked with interviewing a fellow thru-hiker about their first impressions of their journey. Today we hear from Jeff "IBTAT" Oliver (AT) Kate Mueller (AT) Emily (AT) Fainting Goat (AT) Miles Bisher (PCT) Kate Emmons (PCT) Sarah Mowery (PCT)   You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Download this podcast.  Find us on Stitcher and Google Play. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Kate Hurley Music for this episode via.

In today's episode, we sit down with 2017 PCT thru-hiker, Dirt Squirrel.  Dirt Squirrel will destroy any notions you have about the Millennial generation.  She is 23-years-old, well-spoken, doesn't like social media, journals in her notebook daily, and above all, loves hiking and the outdoors.  In this episode, topics include: - Mesa Arch in Arches National Park - The Narrows in Zion National Park - Hiking in a group vs. hiking solo - Utilizing school grants for thru-hiking. - Hiking as a vegan - Hiking solo as a female - The best restaurants on the PCT Support the show AND get a bonus episode through our Patreon Page. Reach us at podcast@thetrek.co, @backpackerradio on Instagram, @backpackerpod on Twitter, and something on Facebook. Recorded at Wayfinder Co-op in Denver, Colorado. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Kate Hurley This show is brought to you by Sawyer Products. 

Today we check in with half of our trail correspondents during quite possibly the most nerve-wracking moment from the journey- the night before starting the thru-hike. Today we hear from: Sassafras, Jeff "IBTAT" Oliver, Fainting Goat, Emily Dutton, and Sarah Mowery   You can support the show through our Patreon page, which helps us to publish episodes more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Kate Hurley.

In the first episode of our new Trail Correspondents series, you met our Appalachian Trail hikers. Now it's time to meet our Pacific Crest Trail and Continental Divide Trail hikers. They are: Rachael "Rabbit" DeLano, Miles Bisher (aka "Miles To Go"), Kate Emmons, Sarah Mowery, Lukas Isaacson, and Madeline Newel. Read their bios and photos on thetrek.co. Support the show at patreon.com/backpackerradio Leave us feedback at podcast@thetrek.co.

Many a'hiker trash dream of completing the triple crown of backpacking, to hike the Appalachian, Pacific Crest, and Continental Divide Trail. To do so over the course of one's life is a notable feat. Doing this in a single year is bananas, which is exactly what episode 7's guest, Jeffrey "Legend" Garmire, accomplished. In this episode, we go down the rabbit hole learning everything that went into Legend's Calendar Triple including daily mileage, toughest days on trail, gear used, and best stories from the adventure.  He also talks about his Pacific Northwest Trail thru-hike and conquering all of the 14,000 foot peaks in Colorado. Topics discussed in this episode include: Trail Correspondents have been selected! Meet the AT Hikers Pox anad Puss Podcast Stories from the Trail Pine Shack Frosty on the PCT (43:25) Big Agnes Fly Creek Tent, Legend's tent Granite Gear Pack | Red Fox Racer Pack Red Fox Yeti -20C | Katabatic flex 22 quilt Pacific Northwest Trail The Sea to Sea Route The Dawn Wall Georgia State Profile on the Appalachian Trail You can support the show by donating to our Patreon page. This helps us publish podcasts more frequently. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Follow Legend, Backpacker Radio, The Trek, Chaunce, and Badger on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube Follow The Trek on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for our newsletter.

We are thrilled to introduce the first episode of our new Trail Correspondents series.  In a nutshell, a small group of thru-hikers from the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail will be submitting audio recordings during their hikes.  Episodes will be published every other week, if not more frequently.  This first episode introduces us to our Appalachian Trail hikers.  They are Fainting Goat, Gwen Nitya, Jeff "IBTAT" Oliver, Kate "Sassafras" Mueller, Jake Beaver, and Emily Dutton. Get the full post and introductions at: https://thetrek.co/introducing-backpacker-radios-2018-trail-correspondents Support the show through our Patreon Page. Leave us feedback at podcast@thetrek.co.  

For most, disappearing to the trail for a month or two is a dream vacation.  Serial thru-hiker and peak bagger Steven "Twinkle" Shattuck and his wife Grace are about to travel the world, while living out of their backpacks for the next year.  We snagged Twinkle during his last night in town to learn how he saved for this epic adventure, what gear he'll be taking, and advice to those who want to follow in his footsteps.  We also talk about the best headlamps for a thru-hike and how thru-hiking can remedy anxiety. Topics discussed in this episode include: Twinkle's upcoming, year-plus long adventure The Hayduke Trail Twinkle's money-saving advice Twinkle's Instagram account Why you should treat your water in the backcountry Giant Desert Centipede Twinkle's Gear Backpack: Gossamer Gear Gorilla Tent: Gossamer Gear The Two Quilt: Katabatic Flex Sleeping Pad: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xtherm Google Pixel 2 Camera: Sony RX100 M2 + Sony A6300 How the Trail Helped with My Anxiety by Tess Mulaney The Best Headlamps for Thru-Hiking Black Diamond Spot Anker 26800 External Battery Check out our Patreon page to find out how you can help us emerge from the dark ages of recording. This episode was recorded at Wayfinder in Denver, CO. Have any praise, questions, praise, comments, praise or praise for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out to podcast@thetrek.co.

Curious what it's like to go from someone who never hikes to summiting Mt. Everest?  Enter Shailee Basnet.   After growing up with "the secret dream to go out and play" in the face of a culture that discourages women from doing so, Basnet was presented with the opportunity to summit Everest.  She took it, and has never looked back.  Since conquering the tallest mountain on earth, Basnet spearheaded the Seven Summits Women Team, which became the first female team in the world to climb the highest peak in each continent. Topics discussed in this episode include:  Backpacker Radio's Patreon Account Trail Correspondents Application (This is closed already. Stay tuned to meet your Correspondents soon!) Shailee Basnet Shoutout to Chris Baker of Wayfinder Jennifer Pharr Davis Mailbag! The Appalachian Trail vs. The Pacific Crest Trail Sun Gloves Thru-hiking purism debate Hiking with a dog on the AT Sun umbrella    

For Episode #4, we are again joined by our buddy, The Real Hiking Viking.  This time, instead of an interview, Jabba joins us as the third co-host of the show.  It does not disappoint.  Or maybe it does.  Who can be sure. Subjects discussed in Episode 4 include: The Real Hiking Viking and Badger's PCT Diet Nutrition hack: GREEN POWDERS! Amazing Grass and Navitas The Danger of Relying on Faux Foods by Katie Gerber Chaunce loves powdered milk Tree sap seals a crack Ian Mangiardi ambushes Badger and Jabba (their documentary- As It Happens) Badger gets charged by a mountain lion Support the show at https://www.patreon.com/backpackerradio Leave us a review on iTunes.  Drop us a line at podcast@thetrek.co.  Follow us on Instagram at @BackpackerRadio.

Episode #3 of Backpacker Radio is a tip of the cap to Valentine's Day. We are joined by Reptar, the creator of the popular Appalachian Trail documentary, "The AT Experience", to talk love, the lack thereof, and romance.   Subjects discussed in episode 3 include: - Comparing the Sawyer Squeeze to the Katadyn BeFree, - Reptar falling in love on the AT, breaking up with his love on the PCT, how this intertwines with his next documentary - Listener love and romance stories from the trail - Missed connections on the trail - Questions from Chaunce's sorority sisters Leave us a review on iTunes and give us feedback at podcast@thetrek.co.

In episode number 2 of Backpacker Radio, we talk a whole lot of number 2.  Zach "Badger" Davis and Juliana "Chaunce" Chauncey are joined by 2017 PCT thru-hiker Scuba Steve and hear his tales of hiking through The Sierra during one of the highest snow years in recorded history, including a couple of near-death experiences.   We also talk about Chaunce's plan to section hike the Colorado Trail this year, how Badger did the same in 2015, and a few noteworthy stops along the trail.   Like children, the three then discuss their favorite poop stories from their hikes, including Chaunce's introduction into sh*tting in the woods, Badger's Cliffhanger deuce in The Whites, and Scuba Steve's bizarre strategy of using notebook paper to wipe. The trio examine the most popular packs, sleeping bags, and tents used on the Appalachian Trail in 2017, and share their own experiences with some of the gear. And lastly, they answer a few listener questions submitted from Instagram.   Have any questions, comments, or concerns for Backpacker Radio?  Reach out at podcast@thetrek.co. If you enjoyed the show, please leave us a review on iTunes and subscribe. 

This is the first episode of Backpacker Radio, a podcast about the wonderful world of thru-hiking, brought to you by The Trek.  In this first episode, we meet our co-hosts, Zach "Badger" Davis and Juliana "Chaunce" Chauncey, chat with serial thru-hiker Tom Gathman aka The Real Hiking Viking aka Jabba.  In this episode, we learn more about The Real Hiking Viking, what he's hiked, what he plans to hike, and why his Instagram Stories are so long. We chat about the potential of mountain bikes being introduced into the wilderness, and thus much of the Pacific Crest Trail. We explore what the class of 2017 voted as the 10 best hostels on the Appalachian Trail.  And we do a quick primer on the Badger Sponsorship 2018, the best backpacking gear giveaway for thru-hikers anywhere.