Modern Outdoor Survival

This is a different episode for us, but it's one we felt compelled to make.On 19th December 1981 a dramatic rescue played out on the English coast, involving a stricken cargo ship being driven towards a rocky shore by a storm. It's an important story of courage, skill, sacrifice and decisions that ultimately led to tragedy.Tonight is the anniversary of that incident, and in this episode we pull together the original radio transmissions to tell the story of the crews of the Union Star and the Solomon Browne.LinksBBC documentary on YouTubeBBC Sounds documentaryPenlee: The Loss of a Lifeboat - by Michael Sagar-Fenton

This is the story that we promised in the last episode - a tale of cold water, dogs in canoes and unexpected swimming. Also a tale of hypothermia, kit choice, decision making and reflecting on the circumstances prior and post.It features our friend (and previous podcast guest) Terry and his buddy 'Grizz', and took place a couple of months ago on the White River in Indiana, US. The story itself is in the main show, the aftershow is more of a conversation and informal sharing of opinions on how to do it better next time.This episode is a little different from what we have done before, and it's something of an experiment. We are looking for other stories to cover in a similar format - so if you have one yourself, or know of someone with a good story then please get in touch with Amy.Links– Join our patreon- https://patreon.com/originaloutdoorscontent– Connect with Richard and Modern Outdoor Survival - https://originaloutdoors.co.uk/podcast/modern-outdoor-survival– Modern Outdoor Survival on Instagram - @modernoutdoorsurvival– Richard on Instagram and Twitter - @richprideaux– Original Outdoors on Instagram, Twitter - @OriginalOutdoor– Amy on Instagram and Twitter - @agreenoutdoors– Join our Discord Community - https://discord.gg/SqG9ghFuUR

There are many elements which affect how cold you feel and how cold you actually are at the core, in this episode Richard talks about the subtle external factors which can have a big impact on our bodies in lower temperatures.We've covered hypothermia in previous episodes but the exact meaning of the term 'hypothermia factory' relates to the perfect mixture of cold and wet with some wind thrown in for good measure, the ideal conditions for pulling away the heat generated by your body.LinksWarming - an episode about hypothermia and first aid with Adam Gent of Real First AidFabric - Layering systems to stay safe Outdoor Swimming SocietyWind chill calculatorsNational Weather ServiceNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Association– Subscribe to our Patreon– Connect with Richard and Modern Outdoor Survival– Modern Outdoor Survival on Instagram– Richard on Instagram and Twitter– Original Outdoors on Instagram, Twitter and Youtube– Amy on Instagram and Twitter– Join our Discord Community

Firstly, apologies for the change in audio quality partway through the episode.This episode is a little bit different, Richard was invited to go with Dave, Chris and Alistair for a multi-day hike on the Knoydart peninsula in Scotland. This peninsula on the West coast is surrounded by mountains, lochs and bogs. It is only accessible by boat, or by a 16-mile (26 km) walk through rough country, and the seven miles (11 km) of tarred road found in the small (population of 111) settlement of Inverie are not connected to the UK road system.The plan for the trip was to travel in to the peninsula by ferry from Mallaig, and then walk back to the vehicle left there over the course of 3 days, carrying everything which they would need for the journey.This recording is their after action report about the kit they took, decisions made and overall impressions.Links– Lighter Pack – Connect with Richard and Modern Outdoor Survival– Modern Outdoor Survival on Instagram– Richard on Instagram and Twitter– Original Outdoors on Instagram, Twitter and Youtube– Amy on Instagram and Twitter– Find out more about The Academy– Join our Discord Community

The TV show 'Alone' has been a big hit worldwide and the American version has been going strong for 10 seasons now. This year is the first time that there has been a version produced by a British production company and featuring British contestants. So we have recorded a commentary for the first episode of the series.Richard Prideaux talks through the concept of this TV show, choice of location and shares some thoughts about how it is all put together. There are bear encounters, mishaps with tools and we wonder just how far away the production team really are.....To watch along go to : https://www.channel4.com/programmes/alone/on-demand/73983-001 If you are outside the UK then you will need a VPN (or to find it somewhere online) in order to watch.Links- Alone Press pack - Discord- MOS Instagram- Patreon

As humans we tend to appreciate comfort in our lives, we function better when everything is just as we like it to be. This doesn't just relate to things like where we sleep and the clothes we wear but also maintaining our perfect temperature and not being in pain. However whenever we spend time pushing our boundaries outdoors we will inevitably end up in discomfort at some point and it can make or break your day. The good news is that you can train for periods of hardship and it will help you on the day when you are involuntarily put into that position. Take the slightly steeper route, carry just a bit of extra weight in your pack on a local trail, put yourself into hardship when it's safe to do so and learn how to keep your head ready for when it happens and you aren't expecting it.Links- Discord- MOS Instagram

We welcomed Andy Kirkpatrick onto the show this week to talk all things big wall, winter expeditions and doing things the hard way. It's safe to say that Andy has made his way through life so far by pushing himself and deliberately pitting himself against his own barriers. From a young age he learned to climb and handle himself in the outdoors and progressed from there, teaching himself the ropework skills he would need to climb big walls like El Capitan. Since then Andy has become a well-known and award winning British climber, writer and speaker.This episode is a little bit different to usual but we really hope that you enjoy it, Andy has done a lot to talk about in his life and this only really covers the tip of the iceberg.Useful info: Chossy means loose, unstable, soft or very overgrown rock which can't really be trusted.LinksHamish Hamilton Whisperlite stove Andy's instagram Andy's website DiscordOur InstagramPatreon

Brief warning: This episode includes talk about menstrual products in relation to wound packingRichard answers questions from our patrons, discord members and audience with a backdrop of crackling campfire, interfering dogs and sheep several fields away.Topics include- luxury items on multi-day hikes, book recommendations, boot advice, a note about wound dressing, the technicalities of packing gear, time-travelling adventurers and coffee making over a fire.Links - Swedish 450km hiking trail- Meateater guide to wilderness skills and survival- Video which demonstrates the shape of a gunshot wound- Richard's fire kit- Our pour over coffee filter for camping- Discord- Instagram

Chris Smart is an ex-military SERE (survive, evade, resist, extract) instructor and now runs 112 Survival, a training company based out of a wood in Shropshire, UK. Richard and Chris delve into the interesting world of survival training, some of the fads (like survival tins) and their origins, and what really happens in emergency situations....spoiler alert, there isn't a dramatic soundtrack change.Links112 survivalThe episode with Adam GentACR beacons survivor storiesGroughDiscordInstagram

This episode is delving into the importance of not making assumptions. You've bought a brand new stove for an outing - have you tested it? You grabbed a bag which should contain your small emergency kit -did you look inside to make sure everything was there and in good condition?We've all been there, done that in terms of forgetting a small item like a fork, and having to make do or borrow a mates, but next time it could be more serious unless you pick up on the little reminders that we can all be human. Links- Discord- MOS Instagram- Day and night distress flare

Delving a little bit further into why Instagram (and tiktok, twitter, facebook etc.) is not your training provider, inspired by a conversation with our friend Luke This is not to say that there isn't a bounty of useful and legitimate knowledge out there on the internet, just a few pointers on how to sift out the people who are thinking less about how what they say will be used and more about the likes, shares and exposure.Links- Luke- Colin Furze - Alltrails news story - Discord- MOS Instagram- Support Us!

A recent event involving a dog, a chainsaw and quick reactions was the inspiration for this latest episode of Modern Outdoor Survival where we delve into reflexes and our acute stress responses as humans. Richard and Amy talk in detail about how your body reacts to acute stress and the importance of practicing potentially life saving sequences in order to manipulate your body into reacting well. This isn't a quick fix or easy way of doing things, but it is something worth dedicating time to.Links- Discord- MOS Instagram- Support Us!

On this episode of Modern Outdoor Survival, Richard welcomes Ralph to the show to talk about snow, primarily avalanches. Ralph lives within the Arctic circle at 69.18˚ N and has a particular interest in avalanches. He is also a member of the local Search and Rescue team.Richard and Ralph talk about avalanches, what they are, how to avoid being caught in one and the personal skills to develop if you want to spend time on snowy mountains.LinksDiscord MOS Instagram Ralph's Instagram Scottish Avalanche Information Service Norwegian Avalanche and Natural Risk Service Support the show HERE

At the weekend, Richard led a group on a 50km supported walk in the Brecon Beacons with the aim of completing it in 10 hours. In this podcast he runs through the kit he carried with him and the reasoning behind it.For links go to - modernoutdoorsurvival.com

For this episode we invited along Alistair, a local friend and someone who has been through a lot of training, to sit in the woods and discuss what to look for when seeking out instruction.

For the first Q&A episode of the season we talk about First Aid Kits, Survival Skills, How to talk about being prepared with others, Favourite Trousers, and Lessons learned from Clients.

This episode Richard answers a question put to him by friend, listener and patron Alistair. What do you do if you end up stuck somewhere, in trouble, with no means of contacting anyone, and having not left a plan?

A different episode to usual, this week Richard is tearing apart a bug out bag. Not just any bug out bag, but one which was purchased by a listener and supporter of the show, before they had even heard of it.We go through item by item, discussing the pros and cons of what has been included and which are going to realistically be of use when "bugging out".To support the show go to www.modernoutdoorsurvival.com/support

Dan and Ghost Element join Richard on the show to talk about the training movement which Dan has started called Future Conflicts. The aims are simple, provide a training scheme and community in which people from all walks of life can learn tactical wilderness skills.The guys talk about teaching these skills, setting up the business and get into the nitty gritty of the difference between bushcraft and survival.

We often come across content about bug out bags and people setting off to adventure around the world, but something which isn't always talked about alongside the flat lays...is fitness. The ability to carry your gear comfortably, stay upright when walking over difficult terrain, pull out an extra 30% or more of effort when required, and heal quickly from injury is all related to fitness. We talk about diet, strength and aerobic training and how these are beneficial to all of your activities.

For this episode of Modern Outdoor Survival we welcome Jodie and Jordan of Tangier Wood to talk about how and why they became small woodland owners in the UK and the unique survival challenge which they run there.

Ash Routen is our guest this week, a British polar adventurer and adventure writer. He and Richard delve into the psychology behind adventure, talk about some of the inspiring people Ash has had the privilege to interview, and discuss risk assessing on the fly.LinksDiscord - https://discord.gg/9Kz8rkDpDcAsh's website - https://www.ashrouten.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ashroutenTwitter - https://www.twitter.com/ashroutenExweb - https://explorersweb.com/Rosie Swale Pope - https//explorersweb.com/running-at-age-72-from-england-to-nepal/Colin O'Brady article - https://explorersweb.com/crossing-antarctica-how-the-confusion-began-and-where-do-we-go-from-here

This week on Modern Outdoor Survival we talk about sleeping bags and quilts. Rather than naming our favourites, we thought that we would get back to basics and go over what exactly makes a good sleeping bag, which materials and fillings are best in different environments and situations and Richard introduces you to some of the nature on the smallholding.LinksMountain Equipment's Down Codex - https://www.mountain-equipment.co.uk/blogs/sustainability/the-down-codex%C2%AE-in-contextResponsible Down Standard - https://icea.bio/en/certifications/non-food/biological-and-sustainable-textile-products/responsible-down-standard/Discord - https://discord.gg/9Kz8rkDpDc

A guest episode with Barry Stoffell, a hardrock exploration geologist who has led groups as first boots on the ground in some very interesting places. In Africa he encountered hazards presented by the environment, wildlife and people. Barry highlights how important his early career was for training in how to deal with difficult situations on these expeditions, and talks about some of the lasting ingrained behaviours. He has lived and worked in environmental extremes from the equator to the Arctic circle and now resides in Southwest Ireland where the predominate weather is rain. Barry now writes for the Shooting Times and Country magazine, manages deer, undertakes some less hazardous geology work and handcrafts beautiful knives.Barry on Instagram- @munsterhuntster

This episode takes a close look at power and technology and their use in the outdoors.Before taking any technology into the outdoors it is worthwhile conducting a quick assessment of your choice of equipment. Understanding how to use any gear is important before taking it somewhere in a capacity where it's failure or your lack of knowledge about it could result in a critical situation. If you are putting your life in the hands of any item of gear then you need to ensure that you are prepared to maintain it and keep it in optimum condition. This means understanding it's power requirements and having plans in place to keep it operating. We delve into the world of technology and power in the outdoors and still only scratch the surface.Links:Jackery Explorer 500 - https://www.jackery.com/products/jackery-explorer-500-solarsaga-100w-solar-generatorBiolite - https://www.bioliteenergy.com/Discord - https://discord.gg/9Kz8rkDpDc

At the end of every episode we share our 3 principles of modern outdoor survival. They seem fairly self-explanatory but, we decided to give you our spin on what they mean to us. It also seems like a suitable opening episode for season 2.Remember "making good decisions at the right time" means using your knowledge and experience to ensure that your endeavours go the direction which you want. Prioritising training over shiny new equipment doesn't mean to not buy equipment which you need, or even want. However it does mean that skills are extremely important and increasing knowledge and skills related to your chosen outdoor endeavour is generally more useful than the latest gadget. And always remember....Instagram is not your training provider. It can be a source of information when assessed, and it is a fantastic source of inspiration....but it is also full of images which don't reveal the whole truth about their creator.

The end of the alphabet and a bit of a stretch for the letter 'z' as we talk about the Prime Meridian and position format. We go from drawing lines on an orange to different types of position format and when it is appropriate to use them. For full show notes and links visit www.modernoutdoorsurvival.com

Yellow is the prompt for episode 31 of Modern Outdoor Survival, yellow as in the stage of awareness on Cooper's colour code. This time we are joined by Terry, a good friend, knowledgeable person and instructor over in America. Richard and Terry talk through Cooper's colour code and it's relevance for daily life and any time spent in the outdoors. Identified by Lt. Colonel Jeff Cooper, the colour code of situational awareness is a tool to identify the appropriate mindset and awareness level in any given situation.

This week we talk to an anonymous guest about SERE - survive, evade, resist, escape/extract.A slightly different podcast than usual, covering a slightly wider topic of military outdoor survival as a whole, and our guest's experiences from childhood to becoming a trainer within a SERE schoolhouse.If you have any further questions for Ghost Element then please get in touch.

Another guest episode this week as we talk to Adam Gent from Real First Aid.Richard and Adam talk about not having a proper job and how they got there, what it is like meeting so many people from hugely varying backgrounds. Then go into more depth about what to do with hypothermic casualties and some other common misconceptions related to first aid and medicine.More about Modern Outdoor Survival - www.modernoutdoorsurvival.com@modernoutdoorsurvivalMore about Real First Aid - www.realfirstaid.co.uk@realfirstaid

The stars aligned for the next letter of our Modern Outdoor Survival alphabet as we happened to have a bit of a vehicle expert in town when we were recording Episode 28 - vehicle. Guest Jay Barton who is a British Army veteran (Royal Engineers) and Richard discuss vehicles, organisation and important kit.Find us on Instagram - @ModernOutdoorSurvivalFind Jay on Instagram - @Jayb_252

For episode twenty seven of Modern Outdoor Survival we talk about utility. Multitools, internet ultimate tools and survival tools which make lovely furniture....When preparing to go out and undertake any activity, it is wise to select your tools carefully, ensuring that they will get the job done and work with your mode of transportation and limitations such as space and weight. Multitools can be very tempting when walking a long way to your destination and carrying everything on your back. However choose carefully; there are many products now which are advertised as being capable of everything from cutting branches to removing wheel nuts to eating a steak. Some of these stand up to scrutiny and are adequate for several different jobs, but rarely are they as good as their dedicated to one job counterparts. It is also worthwhile practicing the use of any tools in a 'safe' environment, get used to the limitations and find workarounds to common issues. This will make usage in the field much more effective.

For episode twenty six of Modern Outdoor Survival we talk open and honestly about poo. Take this as your warning if you share this podcast with family or friends, we don't use adult language but we are open, frank and a little graphic in this episode. Everybody has to go at some point in the day, and if you plan on being outside for extended periods of time, then you need to also plan for the inevitable moment when you need to poop. It is worth noting that there isn't just one method for going when outdoors, it can actually be influenced by the location you are in, your physical condition and fitness, and camp codes of conduct. There are several key things to think about and plan ahead for before drinking that extra strong coffee. What particular guidance is given about pooping in the area you are in? Does it have to be packed out, can you bury it, or is it a smearing on the rock location?Where exactly are you going to go? Not right next to a water source or footpath, but possibly close to a tree if you are in need of support.How are you going to effectively clean up to limit potential hygiene issues?

For the twenty fifth episode of Modern outdoor Survival we look at snow. Not literally as we don't have any, but we will relive some past experiences.It is now the season (in the Northern hemisphere) when ice climbers, skiiers and those who like to trek around wearing snowshoes really come out of the woodwork. It is also the time of year when people try to continue with their regular activities regardless of the conditions on the ground. This is a fantastic thing to do as it increases experiences and knowledge of how to be well prepared and how to deal with a unique set of problems. However, don't take it as lightly as those childhood memories of sledging and hot chocolates in cosy cafes.We all know that when there is snow, it is going to be cold, very cold. This isn't just a frosty morning which warms up, when you can dry out in the inevitable sun, this is cold which may never warm up. Taking steps to ensure that your layering system will work and you are wearing footwear which allows blood to circulate well are vital, as well as understanding your water resources in these conditions.

Episode twenty four is all about readiness.A little later than usual, thanks to Storm Arwen leaving us without power for a few days!Readiness can apply to all facets of life, be that the every day, or the once in a lifetime trip. It is about maintenance of gear and skills to ensure that when you need them, they are ready and function as you expect. It is also about ensuring that you have taken the right equipment with you for the situations that you will be in.

Episode twenty three is about qualifications, related to the outdoors.Qualifications, like most things in life, have an up-side and a down-side. They can be a marker of competence in a given field, and illustrate a measured competence level. However they are often based upon a single day of assessment and cannot be used standalone as a guarantee that a person has maintained their skill level as time has passed.www.modernoutdoorsurvival.com for full notes and links.

Last weekend we had some of the team members of Lakota Outdoors staying in our woodland. They helped to clear some footpaths, set up what looked like a shanty town, and recorded a couple of podcasts at the same time.Episode 22 features Andrew, founder/creator of Valley Deep Mountain High and team member of Lakota Outdoors. This episode is recorded in the woods next to a roaring camp fire whilst the rest of the group gathered firewood and started to prepare the evening meal. Andrew and Richard talk about past careers, what the outdoors means to Andrew and some of the outdoor gear brands which he champions. They also delve into team Lakota and what it means to be a member.

Last weekend we had some of the team members of Lakota Outdoors staying in our woodland. They helped to clear some footpaths, set up what looked like a shanty town, and recorded a couple of podcasts at the same time.Episode 21 features our first ever guest Stuart, Navy veteran and creator/founder of Lakota Outdoors. This episode is recorded in the woods next to a roaring camp fire whilst the rest of the group gathered firewood and started to prepare the evening meal.Stu and Richard talk about living outdoors, everything from teamwork to organisation and how the military teaches people to survive.

We made it to episode 20, a milestone of sorts. This week is all about packs. Rucksacks are one of the best ways to carry large or heavy loads and have been adapted over the years to become ergonomic for all body shapes and sizes. The most important aspects of using a pack is ensuring that it fits correctly. The back length and distance between waist belt and shoulder straps can be the difference between walking with ease and having a pack which you almost forget about, and having a tortuous experience which ends up with blisters, difficulty breathing and feeling as though your spine has been compressed. If you have only ever experienced the latter, then this episode is for you!

For episode nineteen Richard goes through the gear he is using for coaching in the mountains on a couple of rainy days in October.From outer layers, to rucksacks, navigation tools, spare layers, and food. What you take into the mountains will affect the day ahead, and could be the difference between a success or failure. Plan well. THE GEARMoel Siabod Gold Label Wax Rab Vapour rise Helikon-tex Woodsman Haix boots Bridgedale - good quality socks to suit different needsOsprey variant 52 - sadly no longer manufactured!Silva expedition Resilient Nutrition Victorinox climber Nalgene Paramo Torres Gilet Extremities tuff bags Woolpower mitts Helikon Pakcell O'tom Tick Twister - the hockey stick shape seem more effective than the credit card type.Life systems Mountain leader 1st aid kit - but adaptedOutdoor designs large group shelter - or any other suitable shelterBlack Diamond trekking poles - or your preferred type

Episode eighteen leads us down a path of observation.There are inherent risks with everything in life. If you are observant and can read the signs leading up to large events, you can lessen the effects of taking risks by preparing for, or avoiding bad situations.Observation isn't just a case of seeing what is happening, but also using other senses, and in some cases calling upon resources like weather reports, which enable you to predict possible future scenarios and plan out best for a trip.LINKSDiscord - https://discord.gg/ZAjg7Yr9nRLeft Of Bang - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Left-Bang-Marine-Combat-Program/dp/1936891301CODIAC handbook - https://www.amazon.co.uk/CODIAC-Handbook-Observation-Decision-Making-Irregular/dp/1986463982

For episode seventeen we talk about carrying water, by bladder or bottle, there are different products out there to suit all.Carrying water is something which you will nearly always need to do if spending time outdoors. Chances are that you have either landed on your feet with a system which works for you, or you are always on the lookout for something new which may solve your current water carrying problems. We talk about our experiences with metal, solid plastic, and the flexible plastic bottles, their up and downsides. Water bladders have become very popular and are a go-to for many hikers and outdoorspeople for the ease of access to drinking water, but they do have their drawbacks too.

Four months in to the Modern Outdoor Survival podcast and we are talking about modification.Sometimes an item of gear can be made better by a simple bit of paracord, or a small sewing task which alleviates an annoyance which in normal situations isn't close to a problem, but in a survival situation could break you. We talk about a few different things which can be done to modify, or repair gear both at home and in the field.Remember, you can also join our burgeoning community over on the Discord server for Modern Outdoor Survival: https://discord.gg/SqG9ghFuUR

For the fifteenth episode of the Modern Outdoor Survival weekly podcast, we talk about lighting.Whether it is a flashlight or a torch, if you use it for sport, work or leisure, lighting which enables us to function in the dark is important. We go through features of different lighting, what may be important, and trade-offs which sometimes need to be made in order to buy the correct tool for you. Remember, you can also join our burgeoning community over on the Discord server for Modern Outdoor Survival: https://discord.gg/SqG9ghFuURLinksUncensored Tactical on chem lights - https://uncensoredtactical.com/177-chem-lights/

For the fourteenth episode of the Modern Outdoor Survival weekly podcast, we talk about kilograms.This isn't a rant about units of measurement but an episode all about weight. We talk about how much is too much and what that means, alongside where you can easily make savings and how technology has helped with this over the years.Whether you are away for a month or a day, the weight of the kit that you carry and transport with you can have a real impact on your quality of life during that period of travel. Remember, you can also join our burgeoning community over on the Discord server for Modern Outdoor Survival: https://discord.gg/SqG9ghFuURLinkswww.lighterpack.com

For the thirteenth episode of the Modern Outdoor Survival weekly podcast, we talk about junk. Everyone has a corner of a drawer, cupboard or room which acts as a graveyard for purchases that haven't worked out. The attraction of shiny gear which can sing and dance and quote Shakespeare whilst processing a tree can often be too much to resist, but the phrase "too good to be true" is based on fact. The thought process behind investing in an item is a winding path, it is worth weighing up whether that item will be useful, is necessary for the trip you have in mind, and is worth any penalties it may cause (weight etc.) Whether you are going to rely on a stove to feed you, a filter to make your water safe, or a sleep system to enable you to get enough sleep to function safely, it is worthwhile doing research and analysing any recommendations which you read.Remember, you can also join our burgeoning community over on the Discord server for Modern Outdoor Survival: https://discord.gg/SqG9ghFuUR

This is the third Q and A episode from Modern Outdoor Survival.We answer questions about incorporating dogs into the MOS strategy, what this entails and how we have handled it in the past. We also discuss sourcing drinking water and how to make it safe. There are many different reasons why water may not be safe to drink right from the source, but there are also endless ways of making it safe. We consider the options and which ones suit different applications.We talk about solar panels and their pros and cons in survival situations, it is hard to escape the need for charging devices in the modern world, but there are some ways to do it which are better than others. Finally we talk about security. When spending time in the outdoors, often seen as more hazardous than a high street, it is easy to forget the human factor. People consider injury, illness, and loss of equipment, but bumping into a person who wishes harm upon you isn't something which crops up in conversation as much as it possibly should. We talk about when and where we feel that a higher level of attention is required.Remember, you can also join our burgeoning survival community over on the Discord server for Modern Outdoor Survival:https://discord.gg/SqG9ghFuURSupport the show:https://modernoutdoorsurvival.com/support/

In episode eleven we talk about help, in emergency situations do you know who you should be calling to receive expert help? How would you contact somebody who can assist you? What should you do if you are in a scenario where you are awaiting help?The wild areas of the globe attract adventure. They are places to be seen and experienced, however this should be done with eyes wide open to every eventuality and with a plan in place as to what should occur if something goes wrong. Wherever you go exploring you should always be aware of what help is available to you if you need it, and how to raise the alarm if needs be. If you are travelling in a group, this should be common knowledge amongst you all as a contingency. As they say, fail to plan, plan to fail.Remember, you can also join our burgeoning community over on the Discord server for Modern Outdoor Survival: https://discord.gg/SqG9ghFuUR

We go a different way for this episode as Richard talks about the gear that he took with him for a recent weekend teaching a group in the woods. When you are leading a group, ensuring that what you take with you is reliable, tried and tested is important to a successful trip. The last thing that you need is to become distracted by discomfort, or grumpy and unhelpful due to hunger. Richard talks us through, top to toe on the clothing he wore, where he slept and how he ate whilst teaching 5 people who had very little real life experience living in the woods.

Episode Nine takes us down a path very familiar to Richard. That of gathering, focusing on edible plants and funghi. Finding food is a skill which is in our DNA, it is one of the driving factors behind our existence today, our ancestors survived because they learned how to identify food.Foraging can be safe and it can provide a large portion of food in your diet, or supplement your rations when you are out. It can also be deadly, and it is important to fully acknowledge the risks and be prepared to put in the effort to learn about what you plan to eat. Although there are some incredibly nutritious plants available, none should necessarily be relied upon in advance for providing food unless you can be certain that they will be at your location and uncontaminated. Remember, you can also join our burgeoning community over on the Discord server for Modern Outdoor Survival: https://discord.gg/SqG9ghFuUR LinksA Cook On The Wild Side by Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cook-Wild-Side-Hugh-Fearnley-Whittingstall/dp/0752211153Shroomify app - https://shroomify-mushroom-id.en.aptoide.com/app

The second Q&A episode where Richard answers questions relating to common mistakes made by people outdoors, how to apply "make good decisions" to an ascent of a mountain, how to leave no trace regarding cooking food and generating heat, and finally, how he brings coffee into his outside life. LINKSCrib Goch GoPro video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ve03WrLXjo