Podcast appearances and mentions of austin ford

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Elina Osborne. Elina is a thru-hiker, filmmaker, adventurer, and storyteller. Four years ago, Elina released a 15-minute documentary about her PCT thru-hike, titled "It Is The People", which has since accumulated nearly three-quarters of a million views on YouTube. We learn all about Elina's entry into film and storytelling, her process, equipment, and advice she has for future documentarians. She also gives us a preview of a new film currently in the works about her hike of The Hayduke alongside a past guest of Backpacker Radio. We wrap the show with some rapid fire conversations with Trek bloggers we met at PCT Trail Days, the Triple Crown of things we document during a thru-hike, and the maximum number of times we can conceivably enjoy getting dressed up over the course of a year, and much more. Topo Athletic: Use code “THETREK15” for 15% of topoathletic.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com. Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.  [divider] Interview with Elina Osborne Elina's Website Elina's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:30 - Reminders: Join us in Brooklyn on September 16 and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content! 00:06:41 - Introducing Elina 00:08:30 - What's your trail name story? 00:09:28 - What was your entry into the outdoors? 00:11:27 - What is the hiking and backpacking culture like in New Zealand? 00:15:40 - How did you get into storytelling? 00:18:35 - How do you realize you're in a cult? 00:21:22 - Was there backlash when you left? 00:23:19 - How did your first documentary inform your future hiking projects? 00:25:15 - How would you describe It Is The People? 00:27:19 - What was your PCT hike like socially? 00:31:00 - Discussion about offiating weddings 00:33:40 - Did you go into the hike planning to focus on people in your documentary? 00:37:02 - Did you intend to make it a series? 00:38:56 - Is it hard to get the camera out when you're having a fun moment on trail? 00:40:15 - How do you find a balance between filming a hike and hiking in order to film? 00:42:23 - How do you plan who needs to film what? 00:43:25 - Do you look back at the PCT film and see things you would want to change? 00:45:17 - Do you still use the same approach for current film projects? 00:48:44 - Tell us about working for the New Zealand police department 00:52:07 - What was your wildest day on the job? 00:54:30 - Is it challenging to collaborate with other filmmakers while hiking? 00:57:10 - Did you butt heads on the Hayduke? 01:02:30 - Do you have an idea of where the Hayduke documentary will land? 01:05:34 - How do you make editing work on a team project? 01:10:30 - What are your next hiking adventures? 01:15:40 - What is your process for deciding what the story will be? 01:18:10 - Are there any storytellers you're inspired by right now? 01:21:27 - Do you have advice for others who want to document their hiking experience? 01:23:10 - Who is your primary audience? 01:24:01 - Kumo Question: What is your dream vacation destination? 01:27:50 - What is the highlights tour of New Zealand? 01:32:00 - Where can people go to keep up with you? Segments Rapid Fire Interviews Angie aka “The Little Mermaid” Elizabeth aka “Bags Bunny” Sakari aka “Paw Patrol” Christopher Smiley Triple Crown of the things you document on a long trail QOTD:  What's the maximum number of times in the year you can enjoy getting dressed up? Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Following Water Ohio, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns, and Griffin Haywood A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Matthew Kesterson, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Cam Bostock. With more than 600K Followers, Cam is a bonafide Instagram hiking celebrity. Cam teaches us all about his home, the great country of Australia, including his adventures on the Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail, in addition to how often someone needs to fistfight a kangaroo, the frequency of deadly snake encounters, and other stereotypically dumb American questions. We also learn all about Cam's PCT trek, including all that goes into creating a polished Instagram Reel for every day of his hike, his favorite moments from the trail, and the biggest cultural differences between hiking in the US and Australia. We wrap the show with an overview of our time at PCT Trail Days, hint: we were dangerously close to Thunder Island Brewing, if Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are odd or even, and the triple crown of meat. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com. Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.  LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. [divider] Interview with Cam Bostock Cam's Instagram Cam's Youtube Time stamps & Questions 00:02:30 - PCT Days Recap 00:24:40 - Reminders: Join us in Brooklyn on September 16 and support us on Patreon for bonus content! 00:28:00 - Introducing Cam 00:30:43 - Do you have a trail name? 00:31:45 - What was your intro into long distance backpacking? 00:32:23 - What are the basics of the Bibbulmun Track? 00:34:00 - Discussion about Australian wildlife 00:40:04 - What's the ideal season for the Bibbulmun Track? 00:42:15 - How popular is the Bibbulmun Track? 00:42:53 - How does the culture of long distance hiking in Australia compare to the US? 00:45:20 - Discussion about vegemite 00:46:30 - What other cultural differences have you noticed in the US? 00:47:35 - How did you choose the PCT? 00:48:16 - Tell us about the Munda Biddi Trail 00:50:28 - What other Australian trails are you interested in? 00:53:10 - Tell us about stand up paddleboard touring 00:56:04 - What's the culture around outdoor sports in Australia? 01:01:50 - Do you have standout stories from the Te Araroa? 01:05:28 - Who's the biggest Australian celebrity? 01:06:50 - FMK: stand up paddleboarding, backpacking, and mountain biking 01:07:45 - How did you get so many Instagram followers? 01:10:10 - What do you think attributes to that many followers? 01:11:20 - How do you manage your content creation while hiking every day? 01:13:00 - What apps do you use? 01:14:35 - Do you think content creation adds or takes away from your hike? 01:16:50 - Discussion about monetizing content 01:18:00 - How long have you been with your tramily? 01:22:00 - What's the strangest outreach you've gotten while on the PCT? 01:25:07 - What do you miss most about your wife? 01:27:05 - How have you been dealing with the fire situation on the PCT? 01:31:00 - Have you thought about hiking the Oregon Coast Trail? 01:34:02 - What is your approach to social media content? 01:37:02 - What are your top 2 or 3 stories from the PCT? 01:40:20 - What has been your best day on the PCT so far? 01:42:42 - What has been your scariest day on trail? 01:44:30 - What would your advice be for someone who wants to hike the PCT from abroad? 01:47:50 - How much would you tell someone to budget for the PCT? 01:50:15 - What's next? 01:51:07 - Kumo Question: What is your spirit animal and why? Segments Trek Propaganda: Black Bear That Mauled 3-Year-Old Girl Near Yellowstone Has Been Euthanized by Kelly Floro QOTD: Are Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays even days and Tuesdays, Thursdays odd days or vice versa? Triple Crown of meat Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns, and Griffin Haywood A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Matthew Kesterson, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are at PCT Trail Days! Our guest today is Jeffrey James Binney, a modern-day renaissance man who is an award-winning filmmaker, motivational speaker, ultrarunning athlete, and PCT hiker. We learn all about Jeffrey's story, including how losing his mom at a young age inspired him to pursue endurance sports, what it's like for a gay vegetarian to grow up in a rural pig farm in the midwest, his entry into improv and stand-up comedy, how he went from not being able to run a city block to a 100-mile race, making uber-viral dance TikTok videos, his favorite moments from his PCT hike, and much more.  We wrap the show by grabbing the first hiker we found off the street here in Cascade Locks and forcing her to join us for segments and being blessed with an all-time trail hookup story in the process.  Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  PATH Projects: Use code “THETREK10”  for 10% off at pathprojects.com/thetrek. [divider] Interview with Jeffrey James Binney Jeffrey's Website Jeffrey's Instagram Jeffrey's Youtube Once is Enough film Time stamps & Questions 00:05:25 - Reminders: Join us in Brooklyn for a hiker meetup on September 16 and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content! 00:07:50 - Introducing Jeffrey 00:09:08 - What's your origin story for getting into endurance sports? 00:12:10 - Were you surprised to enjoy running the first time you did it as an adult? 00:15:45 - What was the first 100 mile race you attempted? 00:19:05 - Tell us about being a recovering comedian 00:21:02 - Which performance art makes you the most nervous? 00:23:00 - Hiking themed improv 00:25:00 - Tell us about your film 00:30:11 - Tell us about being vegetarian on trail and growing up on a pig farm 00:33:27 - Did your dad push back at all on your vegetarianism? 00:37:45 - Tell us about your TikTok dances 00:45:45 - How has thru hiking compared to ultrarunning? 00:46:40 - What advice do you have for someone interested in ultrarunning? 00:50:33 - Discussion about thru-hiking culture 00:51:54 - How do you determine your weekly volume and pacing? 00:55:57 - What have your favorite moments from the PCT been so far? 01:00:45 - If you can only do thru-hiking or ultrarunning for the rest of your life, which would you pick? 01:01:50 - Is your husband worried you'll want to do more long distance hiking? 01:04:34 - Discussion about Jeffrey's Brooks sponsorship 01:09:00 - Discussion about Jeffrey's manager 01:11:30 - What do you want to convey to listeners about overcoming fear? 01:14:24 - Is losing enthusiasm for thru-hiking common on all long trails? 01:23:24 - Discussion about tramily and hiking alone 01:27:06 - How much of the trail have you spent doing your own thing? 01:29:12 - Kumo Question: What is the most boring superpower you can think of? 01:33:10 - Tell us about your upcoming TrovaTrip 01:34:30 - Where can people go to keep up with you? Segments Trek Propaganda: Is It Safe To Keep Hiking in Wildfire Smoke? by Kelly Floro Random Hiker Interview: Clumsy QOTD: I say a number, you say the color Triple Crown of recurring dream themes Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns, and Griffin Haywood A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Matthew Kesterson, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, Zach takes on the role of guest. This episode recaps his recent hike through the Weminuche Wilderness, a 40-mile loop he's coined the "Weminuchoo Choo Loop." It's bound to catch on. Zach gives a full overview of the hike, covering the distance, elevation gain, alternate route options, trail highlights, wildlife, and more. He also shares a story about perhaps his biggest backcountry blunder to date—an expensive mistake, and one he had the distinct pleasure of having a witness for. Additionally, Zach discusses some new gear he tested on this trip, including a piece that will forever change his water retrieval system. The episode wraps up with sun protection tips for the backcountry, the triple crown of the easiest items to forget to pack for a backpacking trip, whether it's acceptable to put ketchup on a hot dog, and a listener's valuable tips about backpacking Patagonia's O-Circuit. Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. [divider] Interview with Zach! Time stamps & Questions 00:05:00 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and join us in NYC this September 16 for a hiker meetup! 00:09:45 - Introducing Zach 00:10:20 - Overview of Zach's original plans and adapted plans in the Weminuche 00:13:38 - The train logistics 00:19:32 - What's the overview of the route? 00:22:10 - Zach's big blunder 00:28:10 - What was the aftermath of the blunder? 00:31:30 - How did you navigate the remainder of the hike? 00:32:50 - Will you start using paper maps? 00:34:10 - What other blunders occurred? 00:36:24 - Day 1 00:40:45 - Day 2 00:48:00 - Day 3 00:54:04 - What other wildlife did you see? 00:55:09 - How was the water situation? 00:55:32 - Did you need permits? 00:55:45 - Would you hike it with a dog? 00:56:19 - How would you recommend making it longer? 00:57:47 - Elk Park to Needleton on AllTrails 00:58:32 - What gear did you bring? 01:01:24 - What tent did you use? 01:05:30 - What was the weather like? 01:07:14 - You wore a sun hoodie? 01:10:30 - Is it worth flying into Durango rather than Denver if you want to do this hike? 01:12:40 - Kumo Question: If animals could talk, which one would be the most annoying? 01:15:00 - Final thoughts on the Weminuchoo Choo Loop Segments Trek Propaganda: The Essential Gear for Sun Protection on Your Thru-Hike by Ariella Nardizzi QOTD: Ketchup on a hot dog? Triple Crown of easiest things to forget to pack for a backpacking trip Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Justin Simoni aka the Long Ranger. In addition to established routes like the Tour Divide and Nolan's 14, Justin also creates his own - he's traversed the Sangre de Cristo Range, Mosquito and Tenmile Ranges, and from Milner to Berthoud Pass along the divide. And while summiting all of Colorado's 14,000 ft peaks is an effort in itself, Justin summited the top 100 highest mountains in the state after biking to them from his home in Boulder. We talk about all of the nitty gritty details of taking on these ridgeline routes, why he lives car-free, a detailed measurement of how much weight and water he lost over the course of a grueling day hike, some of his current favorite gear, and more. We wrap the show with an overview of some of the best loop hikes in the United States, what we would telepathically say to all 8 billion people on earth, and the triple crown of things on our bedside table. Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  PATH Projects: Use code “THETREK10”  for 10% off at pathprojects.com/thetrek. [divider] Interview with Justin Simoni aka the Long Ranger Justin's Website Justin's Instagram Justin's Youtube Time stamps & Questions 00:04:50 - Reminders: Mark your calendar for our Brooklyn, NY meetup on September 16, support us on Patreon, check out Chaunce & Elise's TCT hike on Youtube, and leave us a voicemail! 00:13:10 - Introducing Justin 00:14:10 - Tell us about your water loss experiment 00:19:15 - Have you done other similar studies? 00:20:25 - What was your food intake like during the experiment? 00:22:15 - What is your primary focus in your personal trinity of mountain arts? 00:24:20 - You don't own a car? 00:26:00 - How did you originally get into the outdoors? 00:28:50 - How many times have you summitted Green Mountain? 00:31:50 - Tell us about the Milner to Berthoud Pass Traverse 00:34:25 - Is it stressful to do high consequence moves while trying to go quickly? 00:35:50 - How does this traverse compare to others that you've done? 00:37:40 - Did you notice an uptick in FKTs in 2020? 00:38:31 - What was the most challenging part of the Vanishing Point? 00:41:00 - What instrument do you play? 00:43:00 - What's your camping setup? 00:43:30 - How do you avoid thunderstorms? 00:47:00 - What does spike your anxiety? 00:48:00 - How do you prevent making careless errors? 00:50:10 - The Mosquito/Ten Mile Range Traverse 00:53:03 - How many scouting trips did you do for the Vanishing Point project? 00:54:12 - Do you get bored while hiking? 00:56:00 - What do you do for work? 00:57:50 - What are your thoughts on sun hoodies? 01:00:25 - How did it feel to be the first person to complete the Vanishing Point project? 01:01:33 - What are the most significant ways you've changed after completing projects? 01:03:00 - Do you experience post trail depression? 01:04:30 - What do you do for water on your trips? 01:07:50 - Tell us about the Sangre de Cristo Range Traverse 01:11:15 - What was the technicality like on this traverse? 01:13:44 - How should someone get familiar with class 5 pitches with a heavy pack? 01:17:30 - Have you noticed any drop in fitness as you've aged? 01:19:36 - Nolan's 14 description 01:21:35 - Discussion about sleep apnea and asthma 01:24:00 - Tell us about the Slowlans Traverse 01:27:40 - What is it about the ridge hikes that keep you coming back? 01:29:00 - Discussion about popularity trends 01:30:15 - Tell us about the Mosquito/Ten Mile Range Traverse 01:35:00 - Could someone who doesn't like exposure find an alternate route? 01:36:10 - Tell us about the Highest Hundred 01:39:44 - How did you logistically tackle this? 01:43:00 - Biking from Boulder to Longs Peak 01:47:45 - Do you feel pressure to keep coming up with new projects? 01:48:30 - Do you see your guides as an act of service? 01:52:00 - Discussion about the Colorado Trail FKT 01:56:00 - Do you have to train to sleep less for an FKT attempt? 01:59:45 - Do you ever plan trips based on the moon cycle? 02:00:20 - Kumo Question: What is the most useless skill you've ever learned? Segments Mail Bag Trek Propaganda:  12 Epic Multi-Night Loop Hikes in the US by Kelly Floro Dead Weight: 13 Thru-Hikers Reveal the Gear They Sent Home by Ariella Nardizzi QOTD: If you could telepathically say something to all 7.95 billion people on earth, what would you say? Triple Crown of things in your bedside table Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, Chaunce and Elise give us a thorough rundown on their recent trek of the Teton Crest Trail. We learn all the requisite facts about this trail, including length, landscape highlights, permitting, travel, wildlife, the best campsites, water availability and more. We also get a play by play of some of the best stories from the duo's hike, including a misfortunate start to the journey, Elise's serendipitous reunion with a Wyoming dive bar, how Chaunce managed her extreme grizzly anxiety, running into a former guest of the podcast on trail, crowd surfing at a concert, and more. We wrap the show with a triple crown of PCT sections you'd take someone you hate, how we'd blow a million dollars in 24 hours, and The 1800-Mile Australian Triple Crown. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Sambob: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at sambob.biz. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. [divider] Interview with Chaunce & Elise! Chaunce's Instagram Elise's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:02:40 - Reminders: Mark your calendars for our NYC Meetup this September 16! And support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content! 00:06:30 - Introducing Chaunce & Elise 00:07:30 - What is the Teton Crest Trail? 00:10:00 - DIscussion about the trail termini 00:11:48 - What was the permit situation? 00:17:25 - What's the best way to get to the trail? 00:19:30 - Discussion about the elevation 00:23:20 - Discussion about Gaia 00:32:20 - How did you prepare for wildlife prior to the trip? 00:41:00 - Discussion about bear signs on trail 00:43:30 - Discussion about wildlife sightings on trail 00:47:11 - What was the water situation like? 00:48:48 - What were the inclines, terrain, and landscapes like? 00:51:50 - Deciding which car to take 00:58:10 - The car problem 01:03:00 - Elise's Rawlins vortex 01:12:00 - Resolution of the car issues 01:14:50 - Getting onto the trail 01:21:00 - Discussion about the camping zones and day 1 of hiking 01:23:57 - Chaunce forgot about bugs 01:27:00 - Day 2 of hiking 01:38:10 - Discussion about fear of snow and Paintbrush Divide 01:39:49 - Day 2 dinner and evening 01:46:20 - Moose sightings and signs 01:49:10 - Day 3 of hiking 01:52:30 - Hiking over Paintbrush Divide 02:04:20 - Day 3 evening 02:07:20 - Day 4 of hiking 02:08:50 - Chaunce & Elise's concert 02:11:40 - Closing thoughts on the Teton Crest Trail 02:12:05 - Kumo Question: If you could have one superpower that's not commonly mentioned, what would it be? Segments Trek Propaganda Meet Your Next Big Thru-Hiking Challenge: The 1800-Mile Australian Triple Crown by J Taylor Bell New Study Helps Explain Why Your Hiking Clothes Smell So Bad by Kelly Floro QOTD: How would you blow a million dollars in 24 hours? Triple Crown of PCT sections you'd take someone you hate Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Stuart Howe. Stu is an avid backpacker of remote and rugged Canadian treks, the proprietor of a Youtube Channel dedicated to documenting the backpacking trips he's done with his identical twin daughters, and the nicest guy you've ever met! We learn all about how his entry into backpacking was spearheaded by his girls, the best trails he's done across Canada and the US, how he likely encountered an aggressively grizzly bear that later tragically killed a couple and their dog, and his organization, which aims to expand safe access into the Canadian backcountry. We wrap the show with news of a missing thru-hiker on the PCT, the best outdoor temperature, the triple crown of worst TV characters, and how Chaunce's random act of kindness is giving her internet street cred. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Sambob: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at sambob.biz. [divider] Interview with Stuart Howe Howe's the Hike Website Howe's the Hike Youtube The Canadian Backcountry Trails Preservation Society Time stamps & Questions 00:02:20 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content! Keep an eye out for the Trek's fall editorial internship and use code “gingerstuff” for 15% off the Trek's new merch! 00:04:30 - Introducing Stuart 00:05:00 - What is the Royal Canadian Geographical Society College of Fellows? 00:07:25 - Tell us about your wedding planning business 00:12:28 - In what ways is planning a good wedding like planning a good backpacking trip? 00:13:11 - At what age did you start backpacking with your daughters? 00:16:42 - What's your background in the outdoors? 00:17:42 - How did you figure out the girls' gear on initial trips? 00:20:13 - Were there less glamorous portions of backpacking with teenagers? 00:22:34 - Do your daughters get along better compared to their peers? 00:23:34 - What family dynamics set them up for success before you started backpacking? 00:25:20 - Were you reluctant or excited to start a Youtube channel? 00:26:35 - How involved were the girls in the Youtube video production? 00:27:40 - How much work was it to keep them interested in backpacking? 00:29:09 - Did you intervene in disagreements? 00:30:05 - What was it like to teach two young girls to poop in the woods? 00:31:20 - What ‘oh shit' moments did you encounter? 00:32:50 - Do you prepare more for trips with your kids than solo trips? 00:34:05 - Have you had any scary animal encounters? 00:39:00 - Discussion about bear spray 00:47:37 - The rest of Stu's bear story 00:51:00 - Discussion about dogs and bears 00:55:40 - How do you handle food at camp when hiking through grizzly country? 00:57:20 - Are you more afraid to return to the area where you encountered the grizzly? 00:58:10 - The conclusion to the grizzly bear story 01:01:00 - Tell us about the Fundy Circuit 01:02:30 - How different are the Fundy Circuit and the Fundy Footpath? 01:03:30 - What is the Molar Loop like? 01:04:15 - How difficult is it to get permits for backpacking in Banff and Jasper? 01:06:40 - Is the backcountry less crowded than the frontcountry? 01:11:30 - How do you compare solo backpacking to trips with your kids? 01:13:45 - Did your wife miss going on the backpacking trips? 01:16:45 - Tell us about the South Boundary Trail in Jasper 01:18:40 - What trail would you recommend for someone with their kids in Banff or Jasper? 01:20:13 - How did you teach them about dangerous things without creating fear? 01:23:00 - What are the biggest differences in backpacking in the US versus Canada? 01:24:15 - What are the biggest resupply differences? 01:25:34 - Did you have your daughters navigate while hiking? 01:26:20 - Tell us about the Rocky Mountain Loadout 01:27:30 - What's the Ancient Wall area like? 01:28:18 - Tell us about the West Coast trail 01:31:42 - Did you see any mountain lions? 01:32:41 - Why not the Sunshine Coast Trail? 01:34:00 - Tell us about the Canadian Backcountry Trails Preservation Society? 01:38:40 - How can people get involved if they're interested? 01:39:58 - Kumo Question: What is the one celebrity you'd be most starstruck to meet? Segments Trek Propaganda: PCT Hiker Missing for Over 2 Months, Authorities Begin Search by Ariella Nardizzi QOTD: What is the best outdoor temperature? Triple Crown of the worst TV characters Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dr. Courtney Conley. Dr. Conley is an internationally renowned foot and gait specialist, founder and creator of Gait Happens, and chiropractic physician who specializes in foot and gait mechanics. We chat all things related to foot health related to long-distance backpacking, including what to look for in footwear and what characteristics to avoid, how to best prepare your feet for a successful hike, and preventing and treating common foot injuries- including unconventional exercises to help you accomplish this. In a nutshell, Dr. Conley is a foot wizard and you will learn a great deal about setting your feet up for success on trail. We wrap the show with backpacking items to ditch to lower your base weight, what vegetable we would be, the triple crown of things that are true, but we're not buying it, and a one-minute gear review of a trail runner that's been gaining a lot of traction in the world of thru-hiking. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Helinox: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off at helinox.com. Sambob: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at sambob.biz. [divider] Interview with Dr. Courtney Conley Gait Happens Website (Backpacker Radio listeners get 10% off consults, classes, and products) Time stamps & Questions 00:04:20 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon, suggest a guest for PCT Days, and apply for the Trek's full time position! 00:07:35 - Introducing Dr. Conley 00:08:40 - How did you decide to specialize in gait? 00:10:25 - How do you analyze people walking? 00:12:41 - What's the easiest gait problem to spot in the wild? 00:13:30 - If you could change one thing about everyone to improve their feet, what would it be? 00:16:52 - Discussion about shoe cushioning 00:18:10 - Discussion about walking barefoot 00:20:00 - In what circumstances would you recommend more cushion? 00:21:40 - Discussion about wide toe boxes 00:22:33 - What other brands have shoes that include your recommendations? 00:23:43 - Discussion about heel-toe drop 00:25:00 - Should everyone be striving to use a zero drop shoe? 00:28:30 - Discussion about toe strength 00:29:30 - How should someone build foot strength in preparation for a thru-hike? 00:32:30 - Who are your primary patients? 00:33:55 - Are achilles tears becoming more common and how can they be prevented? 00:36:14 - Discussion about plyometrics 00:38:20 - Where does more traditional strength training fit into foot strength? 00:41:15 - What's your view on toe socks? 00:42:30 - What can someone do with their kids to ensure they have strong feet? 00:46:03 - Would you ever recommend hiking boots? 00:50:38 - What are the most common issues you work with in backpackers? 00:53:29 - Can it be harmful to power through without an orthotic? 00:54:53 - What workouts should people do to prevent plantar fasciitis? 00:57:37 - Once you notice plantar fasciitis, what should you do? 01:00:00 - How can people help their feet recover? 01:06:10 - Discussion about healing from ankle sprains 01:06:45 - Discussion about stress fractures 01:08:51 - Can a weak foot lead to knee or hip injuries? 01:14:50 - Discussion about optimal shoes for running 01:17:20 - What do you wear for running? 01:17:50 - Do you have recommendations for long distance hiking shoes? 01:19:45 - Do you have recommendations for general foot ache? 01:23:34 - Any other product recommendations? 01:24:30 - Anything else we should have asked you? 01:29:91 - Is it bad if your foot is flat or you have a collapsed arch? 01:31:41 - What's your recommended regimen for going from a 5 millimeter drop to a 0 drop? 01:33:00 - Do you work with patients remotely? 01:35:05 - Kumo Question: What is the cheesiest pickup line you've ever heard or used? Segments Trek Propaganda:  Driftless Hiking Trail: New Funding Package Is Big Win for Minnesota Long Trail by Kelly Floro Peg Leg: 7 Gear Items I Ditched To Cut My Base Weight in Half by Peg Leg QOTD:  If you were a vegetable, what vegetable would you be?   Triple Crown of things that are true, but I'm not buying it One-Minute Gear Review Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Helinox, we are joined by Mary "Badass" Anderson. Never has a trail name been more fitting, Mary is the most badass hiker you've likely never heard of. With nearly 19,000 miles under her feet spanning six decades, with her first thru-hike taking place in 1981, Mary has not slowed down with her adventurous ways, as she swung by the studio on her to the Pacific Northwest Trail. Some of the highlights from today's interview include a wild winter SOBO thru-hike of the AT in 1985, just a handful of months after a major back surgery where her doctor told her to give up hiking. She followed her AT SOBO winter hike by immediately hopping over to the PCT, where she battled even more snow, and killed and ate a rattlesnake. Other feats include hiking all of the 4,000 footers in New England with her young son in the 90s, completing the CDT after hitting a new low in 2020, and now she's on a quest to finish all of the National Scenic Trails, with only a couple remaining. In short, Mary's story is one of a kind, you will enjoy today's chat. We wrap the show with a last call for applications for The Trek's new full-time role, a pair of beloved trail angels close their doors after 17 years serving PCT hikers, what music we would listen to on the way to rescue our significant others from a hostage situation, the triple crown of onomatopoeias, and Chaunce is very afraid of grizzlies. Helinox: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off at helinox.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Sambob: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at sambob.biz. [divider] Interview with Mary “Badass” Anderson Mary's Blog Time stamps & Questions 00:04:40 - Reminders: Apply for the Trek's full-time role! Support us on Patreon for exclusive content and send us your recommendations for a hiker meetup this fall in NYC. 00:10:34 - Introducing Mary 00:11:40 - How'd you get your trail name? 00:13:14 - How did you initially get started long distance backpacking? 00:15:22 - How did you prepare for backpacking in the 80s? 00:21:05 - What does your baseweight look like today? 00:23:47 - What was the AT like in the 80s? 00:26:56 - Did the AT feel easy compared to the Long Trail? 00:29:02 - What resources did you have for navigation? 00:32:38 - What were your resupplies like? 00:34:00 - Tell us about your back injury and being told never to hike again 00:38:10 - Where does your toughness come from? 00:39:00 - How much of a physical struggle was the AT southbound in winter? 00:40:46 - Where did you experience the worst weather? 00:41:50 - Did you think it might have been a bad idea? 00:45:30 - What did your winter pack and gear look like? 00:49:39 - How did you keep on the trail? 00:50:45 - What about backpacking do you enjoy? 00:52:20 - Did people know what you were doing? 00:54:08 - How did you afford hiking then and now? 00:56:12 - What trail recipes do you make? 00:57:18 - What did it feel like to get to Springer and then start the PCT? 01:02:09 - What was your experience on the PCT like? 01:04:23 - Tell us about your rattlesnake encounter 01:07:00 - Discussion about fear and wildlife encounters 01:10:30 - Did you encounter other thru-hikers on the PCT in 1986? 01:11:10 - How did you enjoy the PCT relative to the AT? 01:14:00 - What was the scariest moment of your backpacking career? 01:17:05 - Tell us about the hiking you did with your son 01:19:55 - Do you have advice for getting your kids outside? 01:21:15 - What was it like hiking the Long Trail with your 8 year old? 01:22:30 - How have you noticed the concept of gender changing in the backcountry? 01:24:08 - Tell us about a bear paying for your cross country road trip 01:26:36 - How did you get back into long distance thru-hiking? 01:29:22 - When did you switch from map and compass to apps? 01:31:32 - Do you long for hikes from decades ago? 01:35:55 - How was the southern half of the CDT in 2020? 01:37:42 - How was your mental state? 01:42:10 - Tell us about staying with people on the Ice Age Trail 01:44:28 - Tell us about the northern half of the CDT 01:49:55 - Tell us about your Vermont bike trip 01:54:16 - Discussion about the role of the internet 01:55:40 - Discussion about the Catamount Cross Country Ski Trail 01:58:50 - How was the Connecticut River Source to Sea Paddle? 02:06:05 - Tell us about the New England Trail 02:10:08 - Discussion about the Natchez Trace Trail 02:12:00 - Discussion about the Potomoc Heritage Trail 02:17:40 - Anything else to share about the Arizona Trail? 02:24:00 - What's next? Segments Trek Propaganda:  17 Years, 8,000 Hikers: Trail Angels Scout and Frodo Retire from PCT Hosting by Arielle Nardizzi Professor: The Strategy That's Helped Me Afford 6 Years, 15K Miles of Thru-Hiking (Jobs, Budgeting Tips, and More) by Carl Stanfield QOTD: Your wife has been kidnapped and is being held in a location 30 minutes away. You're driving to rescue her. It's a warm night and your windows are down. Do you listen to music on the drive there, yes or no? Triple Crown of onomatopoeias Power Ranking: Animals You Want to Encounter on Trail Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Helinox, we are joined by Adam Cramer, the founding Executive Director and CEO of Outdoor Alliance, a national coalition of outdoor recreation advocacy groups revitalizing the conservation movement with modern organizing and digital engagement. We learn all about this organization, the work they've done, the conservation movement at large, some interesting data from their recent wildfire report, and much more. We wrap the show with news of a new feature from iOS 18 which could be a gamechanger for backpackers, the proper ratio of water to corpses, and the triple Crown of AT trail sections you'd take someone you hate. Helinox: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off at helinox.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Backpacker's Pantry: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at backpackerspantry.com. [divider] Interview with Adam Cramer Take action for the EXPLORE Act Sign up for action alerts Outdoor Alliance Action Center Wildfire and Outdoor Recreation in the West Time stamps & Questions 00:04:00 - Reminders: Apply for the Trek's new full time position! Suggest a guest for us to interview at PCT Days and support us on Patreon. 00:07:35 - Introducing Adam 00:08:13 - What makes for a good skatepark? 00:09:20 - Tell us about whitewater rafting 00:12:44 - What is Outdoor Alliance and how is it funded? 00:14:00 - How do you pick where the primary attention goes? 00:15:22 - How did you get involved with Outdoor Alliance? 00:20:04 - What are the specific objectives of Outdoor Alliance for this year? 00:22:07 - What does the EXPLORE act include? 00:24:10 - How did the EXPLORE act get passed in the House and what's the process for the Senate? 00:28:39 - Tell us about the funding 00:31:04 - Do you collaborate with any hunting and fishing organizations? 00:33:06 - Does any of the funding go towards trail maintenance? 00:35:35 - Does it get exhausting to argue the same thing year after year? 00:37:32 - What were some of the findings from the Outdoor Alliance wildfire report? 00:41:50 - Would some regions implement this before others? 00:47:07 - Are you looking to expand how many organizations you work with? 00:47:45 - Kumo Question: What's the most beautiful place you've ever been to? Segments Trek Propaganda: No Signal, No Problem: Apple Introduces 2-Way Satellite Messaging for iPhones by James Townsend Accidental Oopsies QOTD: People will swim in the ocean, even though there are definitely many corpses in it. People will not swim in a pool with a corpse in it. Humans all have a corpse:water ratio that is acceptable for them to swim in. What is your ratio? Triple Crown of AT trail sections you'd take someone you hate Priest Confession (and leave us your own!) Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by Helinox we are joined by John Mackey. On trail he's known as "Strider", off trail he's known as the co-founder and former CEO of Whole Foods. In addition to being a world-class entrepreneur, Mackey is also a backpacking enthusiast, having hike the AT, PCT, Colorado Trail, and many trails abroad including hikes in the Alps, Patagonia, and more. This is a fun, informative, and wide ranging chat that covers his thru-hike on the AT while being the active Whole Foods CEO, how he saved Gossamer Gear from near extinction, his fascination with UL gear, including his own 6.5 lb base weight, how his love for fantasy novels spilled into his own creative endeavor at the AT's shelter logs, his favorite vegan trail snacks, and much more. We also dive into some non-backpacking talk, including how to build a successful and healthy company culture, his take on labor unions, how psychedelics played a pivotal role in his life, and we learn all about his new book, The Whole Story: Adventures in Love, Life, and Capitalism. Chaunce and I were amped for this chat and it did not disappoint. We wrap the show with a sneak peak at a new full-time job opening at The Trek, what fact is common knowledge in our field, but unknown to most of the population, the triple crown of Whole Foods foods, and Chaunce's encounter with a ghost. Helinox: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off at helinox.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. [divider] Interview with John “Strider” Mackey John's Website John's Instagram Love Life Website Time stamps & Questions 00:04:56 - Reminders: Apply for the Trek's new full time role! Suggest a guest for PCT Days and support us on Patreon for bonus exclusive content! 00:08:15 - Introducing John 00:09:18 - Tell us about investigating your wife's fridge during your first date 00:12:27 - We Love Love: Tell us about telling her how you felt 00:18:12 - Did that make you more sensitive to how you interact with people? 00:19:15 - What was the origin story of buying Gossamer Gear? 00:23:46 - Are you still involved in the operations of Gossamer Gear? 00:25:15 - How did you get to a baseweight of 6 pounds? 00:26:50 - What are your Big Three? 00:28:00 - How did Ray Jardine's book insprie you? 00:30:30 - Tell us about getting off trail 00:33:22 - What's it like to complete the AT and go back to being the CEO of Whole Foods? 00:36:01 - Tell us about your trail register stories 00:39:35 - What was the process for your support vehicle? 00:41:44 - Did other hikers realize you were involved with Whole Foods? 00:43:10 - What impact has psychadelics had on your career? 00:49:33 - What did your parents think when you started Safer Way? 00:54:56 - Was it hard to ask your father to leave the board of Whole Foods? 00:58:50 - What was the community's reaction to you starting Safer Way? 01:02:18 - How did you mentally keep up with the growth of Whole Foods? 01:03:43 - Were there any books you recommend to entrepreneurs? 01:05:28 - Discussion about listening to books while long distance hiking 01:07:00 - Discussion about what John eats while backpacking 01:10:21 - What kind of cravings do you get while hiking? 01:12:20 - What do you think about alternative meat burgers? 01:13:23 - Can you explain why vegans are against eggs? 01:16:20 - Tell us about hiking with the founder of Celestial Seasonings tea 01:18:58 - What was the origin story of your step-daughter's trail name? 01:20:09 - What sticky situations have you gotten into on trail? 01:24:00 - Tell us about hiking the PCT 01:27:39 - Tell us about the Via Francigena and Alpe Adria 01:29:50 - What has been your favorite European trail? 01:31:35 - What's your take on REI's recent efforts on union busting? 01:36:52 - What tips do you have for building a strong company culture? 01:42:00 - Discussion about merging with Amazon 01:43:18 - What is Jeff Bezos like? 01:43:41 - Zach's idea for grocery store improvement 01:45:33 - Kumo Question: What is the cheesiest movie you secretly love? 01:48:26 - Tell us about Love Life Segments Trek Propaganda: Kristian Morgan Aims for Another Appalachian Trail FKT by Ariella Nardizzi QOTD: What fact is common knowledge in your field, but unknown to most of the population? Spooky Thing of the Week Triple Crown of Whole Foods foods Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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 and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by dermatologist, and my old pal, Dr. Katie Manno. This is a chat I've been wanting to highlight on this podcast for years now, and it lived up to my lofty expectations. Dr. Manno gives us a thorough runthrough on all things skin health related and how it pertains to extended time in the outdoors, including why sun protection is so important, the difference between chemical and mineral sunscreens and which is better for the trail, how much and what SPF sunscreen hikers should use, the safety profile of chemical sunscreens and what chemicals specifically to avoid, sun protective clothing and the science behind UPF ratings, vitamin D considerations when using sunscreen and/or sun clothing, what supplements and skin care products she recommends to optimize skin health, and much more. Needless to say, you will come away from this chat smarter than you entered it.  We wrap the show with why one former guest always uses a bear canister when thru-hiking, we opine on whether donating hair can land you in the slammer, I give an update on my 175-mile lap around Denver, and the triple crown of dog breeds. Backpacker's Pantry: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at backpackerspantry.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Katie Manno Katie's Practice Time stamps & Questions 00:04:40 - Reminders: The Trek is hiring a full-time marketing position! Get notified by subscribing to the newsletter. We're going to Austin and support us on Patreon! 00:08:55 - Introducing Katie 00:09:50 - When did you know you wanted to be a doctor and dermatologist? 00:12:30 - Do you analyze people's skin when you're talking to them in the real world? 00:13:40 - What are the risks and consequences of not taking sun protection seriously? 00:15:15 - How does your skin color impact how careful you need to be with sun exposure? 00:17:32 - Can you totally eliminate your risk of skin cancer? 00:18:20 - Is avoiding a sunburn enough? 00:20:10 - What's the perception of spray tans from the dermatology perspective? 00:21:01 - Is there any reason to be skeptical about the chemicals in sunscreen? 00:25:18 - Do you avoid any chemical sunscreens? 00:26:58 - Discussion about Elta MD and chemical vs. physical sunscreens 00:30:18 - What sunscreen would you recommend to backpackers?  00:32:23 - Is it true that above an SPF it's all the same? 00:35:35 - Do you have a preference between sun protective clothing and sunscreen? 00:37:16 - Does body hair protect against sun damage? 00:38:42 - Is something being covered by clothing enough protection? 00:40:30 - Discussion about SPF and UPF ratings 00:42:30 - What are the main factors that determine the UPF rating? 00:44:14 - If someone applies sunscreen perfectly, do they need protective clothing? 00:45:10 - What would you send out a new PCT hiker out with? 00:46:34 - Walk us through what the various types of skin cancer 00:51:12 - Does sunscreen block vitamin D absorption? 00:53:19 - Is there a safe way to get vitamin D through sun exposure without sunscreen? 00:55:12 - What is the UV index? 00:57:27 - What is the correlation between vitamin levels and skin cancers? 01:01:38 - Are there other supplements we should be taking? 01:04:15 - What are the options for people who've had a lot of past skin damage? 01:10:44 - Do you have any favorite skin products? Segments Trek Propaganda: Why I Always Carry a Bear Canister When Thru-Hiking by Moose Juice QOTD: Can donated hair be used as DNA evidence in a crime? Denver Orbital Trail Update Triple Crown of dog breeds One Star Trail Reviews One Minute Gear Review Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, 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, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Sawyer Products, we are joined by Katie “Oats” Houston. Oats is a solo thru-hiker, who's completed the AT, Colorado Trail, Lone Star Trail, and most importantly for today's recording, the 330-mile Appalachian High Route. We dive deep into the Appalachian High Route's details, including the standout sections, resupply strategy, the best months to hike it, standout stops in Asheville (where Katie is from), and much more. Katie also shares some tips for breaking out as a freelancer in the outdoor industry, which is especially relevant, as she is also a contributor for The Trek and formerly the head of our social media. We wrap the show by teasing our next live podcast- hint, it's not in Denver, Badger has a hilarious and misfortunate wild animal encounter at my house, the triple crown of conversations you don't get to on trail, and a listener voicemail / tick PSA. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer's Permethrin Pump at REI. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 50% off two or more pairs of sunglasses at shadyrays.com. [divider] Interview with Katie “Oats” Houston Katie's Instagram Katie's Trek Profile Katie's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:03:57 - Reminders: We're coming to Austin, TX! Support us on Patreon and check out our Backpacker Radio hats in the Trek's store! 00:08:30 - Introducing Oats 00:09:05 - How did you get into the outdoors and the Trek? 00:10:04 - How did you get your trail name? 00:13:22 - Why did you decide to hike the AT? 00:16:32 - Were you the first person to do the Appalachian High Route? 00:19:06 - Can you give us an overview of the Appalachian High Route? 00:25:22 - What's the route like elevation-wise? 00:28:20 - What are the towns and resupplies like? 00:30:50 - What do you know about the geology of the southern Appalachians? 00:36:01 - What are the highlights of Asheville? 00:40:00 - Could a first time hiker do the Appalachian High Route? 00:41:45 - What did you use for navigation? 00:43:50 - How did you pick to go clockwise? 00:45:46 - Tell us about the hiking you did in Texas 00:46:51 - Do you have tips about thinking through things while thru-hiking? 00:50:00 - Give us your rating and elevator pitch for the Lone Star Trail 00:55:26 - Discussion about the aggressive dogs on the Lone Star Trail 00:57:00 - Discussion about Big Bend National Park 00:59:05 - What are your tips for breaking into the outdoor industry? 01:04:28 - What are different ways to find outdoor industry jobs? 01:06:40 - Walk us through a typical week at Sawyer 01:08:08 - What are your tips for pricing your skills? 01:13:00 - How much freelance work do you do now? 01:14:55 - Give us Sawyer's background 01:20:57 - Where can people keep up with you? Segments Trek Propaganda: Why I Always Carry a Bear Canister When Thru-Hiking by Moose Juice QOTD: How long would you watch a loading screen before aborting all the info you entered/work you did/progress you made to start over? Scary Thing of the Week Pooping in the Woods Update Triple Crown of conversations you don't get into on trail Listener Voicemail Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, 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, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Sawyer Products, we are joined by Taylor the Nahamsha Hiker. Taylor is a thru-hiker, peak bagger, prominent YouTuber, and as of the recording of this episode, exceptionally pregnant. In addition to hiking the AT in 2021 and 2023, Taylor has also hiked all 48 of New Hampshire's 4,000 footers. We learn all about her entry into the world of thru-hiking, how she grew her YouTube following- including a friendly sibling rivalry, what the life of running a gift store is like, and her AT-themed Monopoly board game. We wrap the show with a recap of the remainder of this years AT Trail Days, including consuming butter and dead bodies (fortunately, not related), what Backpacker Radio fans shall henceforth call themselves, the triple crown of things we wish we could buy stock in, and preview a 175-mile hike that Badger is doing around Denver. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer's Permethrin Pump at REI. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 50% off two or more pairs of sunglasses at shadyrays.com. [divider] Interview with Taylor the Nahamsha Hiker Taylor's Website Taylor's Instagram Taylor's Youtube Nahamsha Gifts Time stamps & Questions 00:03:28 - Reminders: Suggest a guest for PCT Days and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content! 00:06:07 - Trail Days Recap 00:32:15 - Introducing Taylor 00:34:49 - Tell us about moving to New Hampshire 00:37:17 - Tell us about your first hikes in the Whites and how those prepared you for the AT 00:39:15 - What was it like getting off the AT in 2020? 00:42:50 - How does one get into the gift shop business and what is it like? 00:48:01 - Did you start Youtubing during your first AT attempt? 00:50:22 - Tell us about getting back on the AT in 2021 00:52:25 - Tell us about getting off trail to drive a marathon 00:56:00 - Do you prefer hiking solo over hiking with a tramily? 00:58:30 - When did you start getting judgmental comments on your channel? 01:00:27 - In what instance do the comments go too far? 01:02:50 - How do you maintain your motivation while making videos? 01:06:15 - Did you have media training prior to starting Youtube? 01:08:02 - How has your tech changed over the years? 01:09:21 - What standout stories do you have from your 2021 hike? 01:10:30 - Have you always been athletic? 01:12:30 - Tell us about the Belknap Range Redline 01:16:00 - Discussion about Taylor's wedding and honeymoon 01:17:24 - How did you decide to hike the AT a second time? 01:19:35 - What places did you intentionally return to on your second thru-hike? 01:20:55 - Tell us about the end of your second AT trip 01:26:57 - Did you enjoy the second hike as much as the first? 01:30:30 - Did you feel compelled to stay on trail because of your audience? 01:31:40 - Discussion about Taylor's trail videos and advice for others01:33:50 - How do you make sure to record the highs and lows of the hike? 01:36:25 - Do you have any good poop stories? 01:41:48 - Tell us about the Lakes Region Explorer Patch Program 01:42:25 - Tell us about camping while 8 months pregnant  01:44:50 - What videos do you have left to make before giving birth? 01:46:08 - What is the vent diagram between thru-hiker and pregnancy cravings? 01:47:50 - Where can people follow you? 01:48:36 - Sawyer Question: if you were given an unlimited budget to throw a party for any historical figure, who would it be and what would the theme be? Segments Trek Propaganda: Every Pizza on the Colorado Trail, Ranked by JT Simmons QOTD: Beyonce has the beehive, Taylor Swift has the swifties, Lady Gaga has the little monsters…what would Backpacker Radio listeners be? Triple Crown of things you wish you could buy stock in New Thing of the Week Priest Confessions Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, 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, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by Sawyer Products, we are joined by Brandon “Horsepower” Weis. With minimal prior backpacking experience, in 2021,  Brandon successfully completed the calendar year triple crown plus a thru-hike of the Arizona Trail. The next two years were not any more laid back, as he accrued more than 15,000 miles worth of backpacking over a three year span, including treks of the Benton MacKay Trail, Pinhoti, Oregon Desert Trail, Bigfoot Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, Colorado Trail, Hayduke, and the Sheltowee Trace Trail. In addition to giving us an overview of these treks, Horsepower delights us with fun stories, including a terrifying encounter with a grizzly, sleeping in countless pit toilets, being asked to leave a restaurant due to his odor, accidentally drinking deet, and more.  We wrap the show with an overview of the first half of trail days, including how Badger is the world's biggest moron, the triple crown of our short section hike on the AT, and how many drinks constitute drinking. Sawyer Products: Check out Sawyer's Permethrin Pump at REI. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 50% off two or more pairs of sunglasses at shadyrays.com. [divider] Interview with Brandon “Horsepower” Weis Brandon's Instagram Brandon's Book Time stamps & Questions 00:07:30 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and suggest a guest for us to interview at PCT Days! 00:08:54 - Introducing Horsepower 00:09:40 - What's your trail name origin story? 00:11:11 - What was your background in weight lifting prior to backpacking? 00:12:45 - Where did your interest in thru-hiking come from? 00:14:37 - How long were your section hikes prior to the CYTC? 00:14:55 - Tell us about being a big Lil Wayne fan 00:16:34 - Tell us about being a partier 00:18:26 - Tell us about deciding to hike the Calendar Year Triple Crown 00:20:29 - In what other ways have you gone all in on something you're interested in? 00:22:21 - Tell us about starting the Calendar Year Triple Crown 00:24:30 - How much did your pack weigh when you started? 00:26:35 - Did you keep to a regular hiking schedule? 00:28:11 - At any point did you think it might not have been a good idea? 00:30:27 - Did you factor in zero days or town vortexes? 00:36:00 - What were your lowest points on the AT? 00:40:42 - What was your low point on the first CDT section? 00:43:47 - What drew you to The One tent? 00:44:28 - Discussion about switching over to the PCT 00:46:30 - Were you too tired to talk to other hikers? 00:47:08 - What were the high and low points on the PCT? 00:48:54 - How did you mitigate injuries? 00:50:52 - Tell us about your back injury 00:55:00 - Are you glad you have already done the Calendar Year Triple Crown? 00:56:02 - McDonalds bathroom story 00:57:44 - Too smelly to be in a restaurant story 00:58:36 - Was the AZT always the plan? 01:00:12 - Discussion about getting off the Buckeye Trail 01:01:00 - Burnt shoes story 01:03:10 - Pit toilet connoisseur  01:05:48 - Savage mice and rats 01:07:30 - Kind of maybe saved a guy's life  01:09:10 - Held at nonthreatening knifepoint in a car  01:10:22 - Accidentally drinking DEET  01:10:53 - Accidentally holding a lovely couple hostage  01:12:26 - Hearing the song Roxanne 200 times in a night 01:15:30 - Tell us about going back to smaller trails after the CYTC 01:19:09 - Tell us about the Oregon Desert Trail 01:24:30 - Tell us about the Bigfoot Trail 01:30:48 - What's your rationale for doing so many miles? 01:31:56 - Are you frugal when out on trail? 01:33:44 - What was your biggest pigout moment? 01:35:05 - What's your favorite meal on trail? 01:36:37 - Eating so much peanut butter he became allergic 01:39:10 - Did you supplement at all on trail? 01:39:35 - Tell us about the Pacific Northwest Trail 01:48:15 - Plug your book! Segments Trek Propaganda: Authorities Investigating Fish Hooks Stuffed In Dog Treats Along Appalachian Trail by Ariella Nardizzi QOTD: How many drinks constitutes “drinking”? Triple Crown of moments from AT hiking One Minute Gear Reviews Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, 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, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Quoc “Double Magic” Nguyen. Double Magic might just be the most accomplished backpacker you've never heard of, along with being in the running for most interesting person on earth. His 23,000 miles of backpacking started with trails you know, like the Colorado Trail and the Pacific Northwest Trail, and quickly evolved to trails you likely haven't including Norge pa Langs,  Via Dinarica, the Colorado Loop (a 1500 mile route he made up), a pair of epic excursions in Alaska, and trekking around the Aleutian Islands, a thing people don't do. This one is a like a snowball rolling downhill, it gets more momentum and becomes more dangerous the further it goes.  We wrap the show with some news of grizzlies getting reintroduced to the Cascades, the triple crown of cheeses, and a listener pumps our tires on our behalf. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Jenna Davis: Email jenna@firstsummitrealty.com or call 303-946-9476 to get a free consultation. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. [divider] Interview with Quoc “Double Magic” Nguyen Quoc's Instagram Quoc's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:03:50 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon to get exclusive bonus content and don't miss important updates by subscribing to the Trek's newsletter or submitting your email on our website! 00:05:45 - Introducing Quoc 00:07:28 - How did you get into the outdoors? 00:09:34 - How did you transition from peakbagging to thru-hiking? 00:12:04 - What stood out to you from your first thru-hike? 00:13:14 - Were you stressed about money after graduating law school? 00:16:28 - How do you deal with shifting priorities? 00:18:25 - What is your trail name origin story? 00:19:41 - Why the Te Araroa as a second hike? 00:22:45 - Discussion about the TA 00:24:16 - How did you learn about the international hikes you've done? 00:26:14 - What did you learn about thru-hiking during your first two hikes? 00:27:29 - What was the first route you created? 00:28:42 - Tell us about the Iceland Traverse 00:35:45 - Do you not feel fear? 00:38:30 - Did you ever think you were gunna die? 00:42:00 - Tell us about the Norway end to end hike 00:45:26 - Was this a stressful trek? 00:46:30 - What were the terrain and resupplies like? 00:48:11 - Discussion about the ULA circuit 00:49:00 - Do you have tips for hiking efficiently? 00:50:38 - Tell us about your nutrition while hiking 00:55:00 - Would you recommend the Norway hike to others? 00:57:29 - How tired are you after the Norway hike? 01:00:00 - How do you make your trips work financially? 01:05:30 - Does it bother you when people don't return their carts? 01:07:30 - Tell us about your current job in homeland security 01:09:32 - What are the worst things that have happened to you on trail? 01:15:15 - Why don't you use a satellite communication device or bear spray? 01:17:00 - Story about being charged by bears 01:21:48 - Have your feelings about grizzly bears changed? 01:24:52 - What are you afraid of? 01:27:00 - What is your gym routine like? 01:31:00 - Tell us about the Brooks Range Traverse 01:35:55 - Do you ever get frustrated or lose your temper? 01:36:50 - What are the mileages of these two traverses? 01:39:25 - Tell us about the Alaska Traverse 01:46:00 - What are your big three? 01:47:20 - What do you use for footwear? 01:48:50 - Do you carry a bear canister? 01:51:00 - Tell us about the Cordillera Blanca Traverse & Huayhuash Circuit 01:54:41 - Tell us about the 1,500 mile Colorado Loop 01:58:40 - What are your favorite 13ers? 02:01:22 - Kumo Question: What is the most ridiculous fashion trend you've participated in? Segments Chaunce's Wedding Update Trek Propaganda: Grizzlies To Be Reintroduced in North Cascades: What It Means for the PCT by Kelly Floro QOTD:  Would you rather be a cowboy, a samurai, or a pirate? Triple Crown of cheeses Listener Voicemail Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Hailey Buckingham, 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, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we've got another banger Q&A episode for you. We are joined by everyone's favorite viking who hikes to cover your burning questions. Subjects in today's episode include our most underrated pieces of gear, what single food item we've used on the most hikes, our go-to sun protection strategies, how careful someone should be during a norovirus outbreak, what single thing we like most about long-distance backpacking, and more. We wrap the show with what our level of surprise would be to see a dragon, the triple crown of seemingly simple things that don't make sense (this of course goes off the rails), and we give a listener dream tapeworms. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Jenna Davis: Email jenna@firstsummitrealty.com or call 303-946-9476 to get a free consultation. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. [divider] Q&A with Jabba Viking's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:03:22 - Reminders: Keep up with content from the Trek via the newsletter, check out our brand new hats (and use code “gingerstuff” for 15% in the Trek store), and recommend someone we should interview at PCT Trail Days! 00:06:34 - Introducing Jabba 00:08:52 - What's your sun protection strategy in highly exposed environments? 00:31:12 - What's the most underrated piece of gear in your pack? 00:40:19 - Patent Pending: Titanium Water Bottle 00:47:45 - What is the single food item that's been in your food bag the most? 01:06:50 - How can you handle norovirus outbreaks? 01:15:10 - The Veteran-Vargo-Viking Story 01:23:50 - How many times do you poo a day hiking/biking…also who's cooler, Zach or Chaunce? 01:26:47 - How do you maintain muscle mass on the trail, especially after so many hikes? 01:30:11 - What was your first tattoo? 01:33:55 - What's your favorite hiking trail you've ever done? 01:39:05 - How do you pack a frameless pack? 01:43:57 - If you had to pick one thing you like most about thru-hiking, what would it be? Segments Trek Propaganda List of US Long Trails 5 Budget-Friendly Ultralight Backpacking Hacks by Moose Juice Kumo Question: What is the weirdest thing you've ever eaten and would you recommend it? QOTD: How surprised would you be to see a dragon flying in the sky? Triple Crown of seemingly simple things that don't make sense Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “The 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, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we'll do it live! That's right, we are once again joined by backpacking legend, Ryan Sylva aka Dirtmonger, to learn more about his ridiculously extensive backpacking experience from around the world, but this time we are joined by 60 of our best friends at the Skylark Lounge in Denver, Colorado. Although many beers were consumed during the making of this podcast, we feel confident this live episode stays in bounds, at least relative to the first go around, which we no longer speak of. We wrap the show with a QA from attendees of this event, a triple crown of the best sports movies, Chaunce gives us the full rundown on her engagement, and we finally introduce our highly anticipated new segment, Trail Confessionals. Banner photo credit: Rolf Asphaug Backpacker's Pantry: Use code “BPR20” for 20% off at backpackerspantry.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. Outdoor Vitals: Get 17% off the Ventus plus a free backpacking pillow at outdoorvitals.com/thetrek. [divider] Live Podcast Dirtmonger's Instagram Dirtmonger's Blog Time stamps & Questions 00:05:17 - Reminders: Submit feedback to podcast@thetrek.co, sign up for the Trek's newsletter, and reach out to us if you know a venue that would like to host us! 00:06:27 - Introducing Dirtmonger 00:13:20 - Tell us about your Poop Loop Bikepacking route 00:15:36 - Was this the start of a new chapter in your life? 00:19:20 - Does bikepacking scratch the same backcountry itch as backpacking? 00:22:58 - How do you develop and feel confident in your philosophy about backpacking? 00:26:54 - Tell us about your backstory 00:31:12 - Have you ever done something you wouldn't want to do again? 00:34:15 - Sell us on bikepacking 00:37:28 - Discussion about using other activities to heal while still adventuring 00:44:15 - What's the longest day you've had on a bike? 00:46:30 - Tell us about the Salkantay Trek, Ausungate Circuit, and Cordillera Real Traverse 00:50:59 - Do you learn things when you hike with Swami? 00:54:02 - What do you mean by hiking at your level? 00:59:56 - Discussion about hiking alone versus with people 01:01:52 - How did that inform the hiking decisions you made afterwards? 01:02:35 - What appeals to you about the desert? 01:04:40 - Tell us about the Oregon Desert Trail 01:06:50 - Tell us about the Altiplano Traverse 01:11:35 - Are there outdoor conditions that you don't enjoy? 01:14:23 - Has there been a scenario where you turned back because the conditions were bad? 01:17:20 - What's your mentality about proving yourself to other people? 01:23:50 - Tell us about the Whatever Route 01:28:25 - Discussion about planning and developing the Great Basin Route 01:37:20 - What's your most controversial take on thru-hiking culture? 01:40:05 - What's your median base weight? 01:45:30 - Discussion about down jackets and rain jackets 01:48:00 - Kumo Question: Do you think visors will ever come back around? 01:49:06 - Audience Q&A: Is there anything you want to hike in Asia? 01:50:00 - Audience Q&A: Bidet? 01:51:00 - Gossamer Gear Giveaway 1 01:55:30 - Audience Q&A: If you had to do one trail for the rest of your life, what would it be? 01:56:40 - Audience Q&A: Do you ever mentally struggle without seeing people around? 02:00:10 - Audience Q&A: How do you mentally balance creating a new trail with LNT? 02:03:08 - Audience Q&A: What trail made you fall in love with thru-hiking? Segments Chaunce's Engagement Story QOTD: How much money would it take for you to live in a dumpster for a month? Triple Crown of sports movies Trail Confessions Two Star Trail Review Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Hailey Buckingham, 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, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by thru-hiker and author, Audrey “Glowstick” Payne. In addition to a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, which is the subject of her memoir, Where the Rhododendrons Bloom, Audrey has also tackled the Colorado Trail, Foothills Trail, Trans Catalina Trail, John Muir Trail, Wonderland Trail, and the Patagonia O Circuit. Audrey gives us an overview of each of these treks, and how she might be the first person on earth to not enjoy the JMT, she details a not-so-cordial breakup with her trail family on the AT, and offers some solid tips for those who want to trek Patagonia's O Circuit. We also get an overview of Audrey's life prior to thru-hiking, including how her treks were inspired by a back injury and her career in PR, including some fun stories of working with celebrities.  We wrap the show with the news of a nasty outbreak of Norovirus on the AT this year, whether you should store your food underwater in the backcountry, the triple crown of movies we've cried to, and some one-star trail reviews. Backpacker's Pantry: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at backpackerspantry.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. 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. [divider] Interview with Audrey “Glowstick” Payne Audrey's Instagram Audrey's Website Audrey's Linktree Time stamps & Questions 00:05:14 - Reminders: Come say hi to us at both AT and PCT Trail Days, support us on Patreon to get bonus exclusive episodes, and check out our new hats! 00:06:47 - Introducing Audrey 00:09:20 - What were you doing in DC? 00:15:53 - How did you go from burnt out PR person to thru-hiking?  00:18:34 - How has your back held up? 00:20:15 - How old were you when you started on the AT? 00:22:45 - Walk us through how you rationalized leaving your career to hike the AT 00:26:57 - Are you grateful for your back issues getting you onto the trail? 00:29:28 - Did you have any midlife crises turning 40? 00:30:40 - How do you feel about your future hikes? 00:31:45 - What advice would you give to others approaching or in their 30s? 00:36:22 - Tell us about getting woken up by some ponies and bears 00:44:00 - Is there a story that resonates with readers from the book? 00:47:00 - Tell us about camping at the drive in 00:53:43 - Tell us about foraging on the AT 00:58:40 - What was your best trail magic experience? 01:03:14 - What are your thoughts about tramilies? 01:07:10 - How did the trail family breakup go? 01:09:54 - Can you give tips to people from a PR perspective on how to break up with your trail family? 01:15:52 - What happens if you encounter your broken up trail family again? 01:16:48 - What was it like post-breakup? 01:18:35 - Discussion about deciding to leave a job to hike the AT 01:20:18 - How can someone weigh the pros and cons of making a change to their life? 01:25:00 - Did you put the AT on your resume or discuss it during your interviews? 01:27:45 - What accounted for the four year gap between the AT and your next hike? 01:29:39 - Do your coworkers know you for your hiking? 01:33:02 - How did you decide to do the Colorado Trail? 01:34:17 - Did you start in the same place each time you've done the Four Pass Loop? 01:36:00 - Discussion about the logistics of the Four Pass Loop 01:41:55 - Tell us about your mountain lion encounter on the CT 01:50:00 - Discussion about off-roading 01:51:40 - How was your Foothills Trail hike? 01:57:10 - What insects did you see? 02:00:00 - How was your Trans Catalina Trail experience? 02:04:29 - How was the John Muir Trail? 02:07:50 - Discussion about the PCT southbound 02:12:20 - Tell us about the Patagonia O Circuit 02:14:23 - Is the O Circuit accessible for someone who isn't an experienced backpacker? 02:15:58 - What kind of mileage and elevation gain does the trail entail? 02:17:30 - Discussion about costs, food, and gear 02:19:37 - Where do you fly into and how do you get to trail? 02:21:24 - How did you feel safety-wise? 02:22:55 - Did the structure of the hike take away from the wildness of the area? 02:25:00 - Did you feel fine traveling in that area without speaking Spanish? 02:26:50 - Discussion about the weather and clothing 02:30:29 - Kumo Question: What would your walkup song be if you were entering the Olympics for a random sport? 02:33:50 - Where can people follow you and get your book? Segments Trek Propaganda: Norovirus Alert: Appalachian Trail Hikers Urged to Stay Vigilant Amid Outbreak by Ariella Nardizzi QOTD: Have you ever heard of storing food underwater in the backcountry? Triple Crown of movies you've cried to One Star Trail Reviews Listener Voicemail Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, Hailey Buckingham, 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, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again joined by Bethany “Fidgit” Hughes. Fidget has hiked, paddled, and cycled more than 22,000 miles across 25 countries as one half of the Her Odyssey Expedition, a human-powered endeavor to connect the Americas following the longest chain of mountains in the world while telling the story of the land and its inhabitants, a journey she completed in August 2022.  Bethany was last on the podcast more than 5 years ago, when she had completed the South American leg of this wild expedition, she catches us up with her and her partner's journey through Central and North America. We go deep on how she navigates the more unsafe sections of this journey, especially through Central America and Mexico and navigating the cartel, dodging crocodiles, canoeing the 3,000+ mile Arctic Drainage to reach the Arctic Ocean, and much, much more. This one is full of engaging stories, you will not be disappointed. We wrap the show with news of the first woman to complete the Barkley Marathons, a deadly mountain lion attack in California, and the triple crown of breakfasts. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Jenna Davis: Email jenna@firstsummitrealty.com or call 303-946-9476 to get a free consultation. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. Outdoor Vitals: Get 17% off the Ventus plus a free backpacking pillow at outdoorvitals.com/thetrek. [divider] Interview with Bethany “Fidgit” Hughes Her Odyssey Website Her Odyssey Instagram Her Odyssey Youtube Backpacker Radio Episode 25: Bethany “Fidgit” Hughes on Trekking the Length of the Americas Time stamps & Questions 00:04:08 - Reminders: We will be at Trail Days! And…subscribe to us on Youtube! 00:05:07 - (Re)introducing Bethany 00:06:23 - Tell us about your recent 10 day silent retreat 00:16:25 - Did you have moments where you wanted to speak? 00:18:30 - Give us the summary of what part of the odyssey you'd completed the last time you were on the podcast 00:23:00 - What was the timeline of going across Central America? 00:25:58 - How would you describe your appreciation for bikepacking? 00:28:24 - Do you find that elitism is more prevalent in bikepacking than thru-hiking? 00:33:10 - If someone wanted to do a similar route, what advice would you offer? 00:37:26 - How many scenarios felt unsafe during the Central American portion? 00:42:08 - Did you find the State Department's advisories helpful? 00:43:28 - Are there extra safety precautions for solo female travelers? 00:47:38 - What other safety methods do you recommend? 00:50:45 - What were some of the highlights of the Central American portion of your route? 00:53:33 - Is there a crocodile protocol? 00:57:50 - Where did you go after kayaking in Panama? 01:00:25 - How safe did you feel in Mexico? 01:05:50 - How did you learn these trends and strategies? 01:08:23 - Is it easy to spot a gangster? 01:10:44 - Tell us about jumping over to the Baja California Peninsula 01:13:20 - Did you have any weird encounters along the US-Mexico border? 01:20:00 - Discussion about the evolution of trail magic and entitlement 01:22:36 - How do you recommend people participate in a gift-giving culture? 01:28:07 - Tell us any standout stories from hiking the CDT 01:33:20 - Do you think Her Odyssey has made you more adaptable as a thru-hiker? 01:40:22 - Tell us about the Great Divide Trail 01:46:25 - What are Treaty Days? 01:48:38 - Discussion about climate change along the route 01:51:05 - Discussion about the paddling trip to the Arctic Ocean 01:59:00 - How did you develop paddling skills? 02:01:16 - Did your caloric needs increase on the paddling portion of the odyssey? 02:02:18 - Bethany's hot take on umbrellas 02:05:40 - Where can people learn more about you? Segments Trek Propaganda 1 Killed, 1 Injured in California Mountain Lion Attack by Kelly Floro Jasmin Paris Becomes First Woman Ever To Complete Barkley Marathons by Kelly Floro QOTD: How excited are we to have Elise back on BPR? Triple Crown of breakfasts Listener Voicemail Plug Me Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Hailey Buckingham, 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, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, he's back. That's right, The Real Hiking Viking aka Jabba aka Tom aka Backpacker Radio's honorary third co-host joins us once again to give us an update on his life. We get the full breakdown of where the heck he disappeared to last year, how his CDT hike went, another attempt at the Wind River High Route, a brief stint on a reality TV show in Central America, updates on his backpack, and much more. If ever a guest needed no introduction, it's this one, so we'll just say sit down, strap in, and get ready to get Jabba'd once again. We wrap the show with a question of the day so graphic that I will not be saying it in the intro (this episode is not for kids), the triple crown of funniest farts, and this is your last chance to snag tickets for our live podcast in Denver! Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Outdoor Vitals: Get 17% off the Ventus plus a free backpacking pillow at outdoorvitals.com/thetrek. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. Danner: Use code “TREK15” for 15% off Mountain 600 boots at danner.com. [divider] Interview with Jabba Jabba's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:07:17 - Reminders: This is your last chance for tickets to our live podcast in Denver TOMORROW! 00:15:00 - Re-introducing Jabba and his desire for a sober year 00:22:25 - Are you goal setting for your birthday? 00:24:00 - What would allow you to one-up your 30s in your 40s? 00:26:22 - Is there a correlation between trying sobriety and preventing injuries? 00:29:23 - Why did you disappear? 00:33:00 - Discussion about Jabba's flip flop on the CDT and getting off the trail 00:37:07 - Did any part of you think about getting back onto the CDT? 00:38:04 - How do you pull yourself out of a sedentary period? 00:40:55 - How do you spend six hours at the gym? 00:51:08 - What bikepacking trip are you going on? 00:54:14 - Tell us about starting on the CDT last year 00:58:35 - Do you have any mental spiraling about not being at the top of your historical physical fitness? 01:05:00 - Discussion about adding stakes to physical goals 01:12:08 - Discussion about the CDT 01:17:00 - Discussion about standards shifting over time 01:18:52 - How do you manage big adventures with maintaining a home life? 01:21:50 - Tell us about ending the CDT with the Wind River High Route 01:33:21 - What were some highlights of the northern stretch of the Wind River High Route? 01:36:45 - Should you have an ice axe and microspikes regardless of the time of year? 01:38:17 - What are the updates on the Zerk? 01:43:18 - Kumo Question: What is the smelliest thing you've ever encountered? Segments QOTD Triple Crown of funniest farts Trek Propaganda: Briana DeSanctis Becomes First Solo Woman To Complete 6,800-Mile American Discovery Trail by Ariella Nardizzi Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Hailey Buckingham, 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, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Henry “Moose Juice” Lewis. In addition to hikes of the AT, Teton Crest Trail, Colorado Trail, and the PCT, Moose Juice spent a few seasons shaking down starry eyed aspiring thru-hikers at Mountain Crossings. Henry gives us a rundown of these hikes, the funniest stories from these shakedowns, including happening onto vibratos and guns, tips on how to fix a leaking inflatable sleeping pad, doing champagne shoey, and his terrifying encounter with an angry bull moose, which helped him earn his trail.  We wrap the show with an argument for starting your AT hike on the Benton Mackaye Trail, why or why not a ghost and zombie can come from the same person, and the triple crown of non-obvious smartphone apps. Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Outdoor Vitals: Get 17% off the Ventus plus a free backpacking pillow at outdoorvitals.com/thetrek. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. Danner: Use code “TREK15” for 15% off Mountain 600 boots at danner.com. [divider] Interview with Henry “Moose Juice” Lewis Henry's Trek Author Page Henry's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:03:45 - Reminders: Attend our live podcast in Denver next week! Apply to be a blogger for the Trek! 00:06:47 - Introducing Moose Juice 00:07:20 - Tell us about your champagne shoey 00:09:33 - Tell us the origin of your trail name 00:13:02 - Did you try to gain weight prior to the AT? 00:15:46 - We Love Love: Tell us about meeting your girlfriend on trail 00:19:50 - Why were you so oblivious to all the signs? 00:23:24 - Where did the AT and thru-hiking come onto your radar? 00:26:42 - Why did you choose to go southbound? 00:31:05 - How did starting with the Whites impact your mindset? 00:33:34 - Tell us your worst moment on the trail 00:36:40 - Discussion about packs 00:40:00 - Tell us about your experience working at Mountain Crossings 00:46:20 - Do they prepare you for working with tons of thru-hikers during the bubble? 00:47:48 - Are Mountain Crossings employees incentivized to sell gear? 00:50:00 - What can people do better while preparing to minimize needing to buy new gear during the hike? 00:52:30 - Is having a big personality a trait Mountain Crossings recruit for? 00:54:55 - Are there standout stories of people carrying outlandish things? 01:00:25 - Tell us about the Teton Crest Trail 01:08:09 - Tell us about the Colorado Trail 01:08:45 - When did you decide to hike the PCT? 01:12:06 - Did you hike all the way through the Sierra? 01:18:40 - Was she okay after going to the hospital? 01:19:55 - What is High Altitude Pulmonary Edema? 01:22:32 - Would you rather do the Sierra in high snow or low snow conditions? 01:24:54 - What were the highlights of the rest of the PCT? 01:26:24 - Tell us about your mountain lion encounter 01:31:12 - What are the steps for fixing an inflatable air pad hole? 01:34:00 - What's the ideal start date for the AT? 01:37:25 - Kumo Question: Do you have any strange superstitions? Segments Impromptu Chaunce Poop Story Trek Propaganda: The AT Is Crowded. Why Not Start Your Thru-Hike on the Benton Mackaye Trail Instead? by Kelly Floro QOTD: Can a ghost and a zombie come from the same person? Triple Crown of non-obvious apps on your phone Patent Pending Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, 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, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Eeland Stribling. Eeland, who's known as the "Black Steve Iriwn" and “The Fliest Fisherman” is a wildlife biologist, educator, standup comedian, and the host of “Comedians on the Fly.” We dive deep into the world of standup comedy, including the various hazing routines, what it's like to eat shit during an open mic, how things change as you climb the ranks, the process of crafting a joke, and more. Eeland also educates us with some fun facts about black bears and mountain lions and gives us a thorough primer on how to get started with fly fishing. This chat was both fun and informative, you will not be disappointed.  We wrap the show with five word sentences that are guaranteed to start a fight, the triple crown of shows to fall asleep to, and we have more details of our live podcast in Denver. The link to get tickets is in the show notes. Taking a pause here to give you time to snag yours.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Jenna Davis: Email jenna@firstsummitrealty.com or call 303-946-9476 to get a free consultation. Shady Rays: Use code “TREKREACT” for 2 lenses free when you buy React frames at shadyrays.com. Danner: Use code “TREK15” for 15% off Mountain 600 boots at danner.com. [divider] Interview with Eeland Stribling Eeland's Instagram Eeland's Website Comedians on the Fly Brown Folks Fishing Time stamps & Questions 00:03:42 - Reminders: Get tickets to our live show in Denver on April 23! 00:04:44 - Introducing Eeland 00:05:37 - What got you into comedy? 00:09:15 - How would you describe your style of comedy? 00:14:18 - What is the easiest animal to make fun of? 00:15:45 - Tell us about your experience as a nuisance animal technician 00:18:58 - Tell us about tranquilizing and relocating bears 00:22:08 - What was the smartest bear encounter you had? 00:25:40 - How did your mountain lion work compare to that with bears? 00:28:00 - Is there an area that's notorious for problematic bears? 00:33:31 - Are there notable comedians you've opened for? 00:38:05 - What is it like to hang out with comics in the green room? 00:43:20 - What's the best advice other comedians have given you? 00:46:55 - Tell us about how you write jokes 00:48:55 - What's it like when jokes bomb? 00:53:00 - How does a set hit with some crowds and not with others? 00:58:04 - Can you read us the most recent lines in your notebook? 01:02:17 - How frequently are you improvising on stage with new bits? 01:04:45 - When are your upcoming shows in April? 01:06:04 - Tell us about your show, Comedians on the Fly 01:09:20 -  How did you get into fly fishing? 01:12:37 - Tell us about your phone incident while saltwater fishing 01:15:55 - How do you know what flies are needed for certain areas? 01:18:00 - Are you reluctant to share your favorite tips or places? 01:23:56 - How much of fly fishing is skill vs. knowledge vs. luck? 01:27:30 - Discussion about paralells between comedy and fishing 01:31:40 - Can you talk to us about Brown Folks Fishing and why their work matters? 01:34:30 - Kumo Question: If you could live in any era of history, what would you pick? 01:37:18 - What do you recommend for someone who wants to get started in fly fishing? 01:46:06 - Do you exclusively do catch and release? 01:52:00 - Discussion about protecting released fish 01:54:00 - Where can people find you? Segments Trek Propaganda: 2024 Badger Sponsorship Winners by Kendra Slagter QOTD: In 5 words or less, start a fight without politics Listener Voicemail (leave us your own!) Triple Crown of shows to fall asleep to Plug Me: Glen Van Peski's  Take Less. Do More: Surprising Life Lessons in Generosity, Gratitude and Curiosity from an Ultralight Backpacker Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, 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, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are chatting all things Colorado Trail. Rachel, who filled in for Zach, and Chaunce are joined by David Fanning, who has seven complete hikes of the Colorado Trail, which is tied for the record we think. Topics covered today include the pros and cons of hiking the CT both east and westbound, the best weather windows, transportation to the trail, recommended gear, information about the campsites, water availability, the best towns, resupply strategy, preparation strategies, how to navigate the trail, wildlife, comparing the Collegiate East and West, and more. We wrap the show with the official details of our upcoming LIVE podcast in Denver, how to cook corn, and the triple crown of bread. Gossamer Gear: Use code “DINGLEBERRY” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.  Danner: Use code “TREK15” for 15% off Mountain 600 boots at danner.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. [divider] Panel with David Fanning David's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:06:14 - Reminders: Come attend BPR live in Denver on April 23! Apply to be a Trek blogger or Ambassador and suggest a potential Trail Days guest for BPR! 00:07:37 - Introducing the Colorado Trail panel 00:08:54 - Introducing David Fanning 00:12:04 - How did you go from the PCT to CT? 00:14:20 - When was the first year you hiked the Colorado Trail? 00:15:52 - Do you think having that conversation with the doctor turned out to be a blessing? 00:20:25 - Colorado Trail basics 00:22:40 - Hiking season and weather 00:30:10 - What crazy weather have you seen across 7 hikes? 00:31:45 - Discussion about keeping gear dry and rain gear 00:36:42 - What experience have you had with snow on the trail? 00:39:14 - Have you had any sketchy experiences with lightning? (NOLS lightning resources) 00:41:56 - Discussion about dead tree fall 00:43:15 - Hiking NOBO or SOBO 00:49:08 - Trail termini 00:51:00 - Discussion about taking the train from Grand Junction to Denver 00:52:12 - Resupplies and towns 00:53:18 - Discussion about hitching 00:59:50 - Trail towns: Bailey, Conifer, Jefferson, and Fairplay (See The Colorado Trail Guide: Resupply and Towns on the Colorado Trail) 01:04:04 - Trail towns: Breckenridge, Frisco, and Copper 01:05:45 - Sending resupply boxes 01:06:53 - Trail towns: Leadville 01:09:54 - Trail towns: Twin Lakes 01:10:35 - Collegiate East vs West 01:17:05 - Trail towns: Buena Vista and Salida 01:19:05 - The Cochetopa section 01:24:10 - Trail towns: Gunnison, Lake City 01:31:56 - Discussion about sheepdogs 01:34:06 - Trail towns: Silverton and the scenic train 01:38:40 - Discussion about the section between Lake City and Silverton 01:40:20 - Discussion about wildlife encounters 01:48:00 - Food storage on the CT 01:50:04 - Shelter considerations on the CT 01:54:15 - Discussion about campsites and Chaunce's scary story 01:58:45 - Navigation on the CT 02:00:48 - Dogs and bikes on the CT (Backpacker Radio #214 | Tisha McCombs, Executive Director at the Colorado Trail Foundation) 02:03:30 - What has changed the most over your many hikes? 02:07:00 - Section hiking versus thru-hiking 02:14:02 - What's your elevator pitch for the Colorado Trail? 02:17:04 - Physical preparation on the CT 02:21:25 - Discussion about food and appetite 02:21:55 - Tell us about Voices of the Colorado Trail Segments Trek Propaganda Tisha McCombs is Leaving the Colorado Trail Foundation Best Trekking Poles for Backpacking in 2024 by Katie Kommer QOTD: How do you cook corn? Triple Crown of bread Plug Me: Old Man Murph's Coffee Roasters Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, 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, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are bringing you another edition of Girl's Stuff! Today, Chaunce along with guest panelists, Rachael "Rabbit" Delano and Marie "Basecamp" Black answer your burning questions related to female-specific topics in the backcountry. Topics including the feasibility of bringing a vibrator, how to court a guy during a thru-hike (and advice for guys on how to do the courting), female urination devices, the Kula Cloth, what body parts get the razor treatment and which parts are neglected, managing a period on trail and birth control options, how to deal with fear and fear mongering, trail family dynamics, and much much more. We wrap the show with the top stoves, filters, and rain gear from the AT, which is more exciting between new school supplies and new backpacking gear, the triple crown of nicknames that get your goat, and more. Mountainsmith: Use code “TREKZERK24” for 40% off at mountainsmith.com. Danner: Use code “TREK15” for 15% off Mountain 600 boots at danner.com. Ka'Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Shady Rays: Use code “TREK20” for $20 off polarized sunglasses at shadyrays.com. [divider] Panel with Rachel “Rabbit” Delano and Marie “Basecamp” Black Rabbit's Instagram Backpacker Radio 113 | Rachael “Rabbit” Delano Basecamp's Instagram Wes and Marie Black on Sex During a Thru-Hike, Hiking the PCT as a Married Couple, and Arguing on Trail (BPR #240) Time stamps & Questions 00:04:53 - Reminders: Apply to blog for the Trek or become a Trek Ambassador! 00:06:32 - Introducing Rachel 00:08:28 - Introducing Basecamp 00:13:27 - Should I bring my travel size vibrator? 00:21:30 - Discussion about pink blazing 00:29:50 - Is it a turnoff to be in a situation where you have to make the first move? 00:33:00 - Discussion about sharing a hotel bed 00:38:30 - What are your tells if you're interested in someone on trail? 00:44:00 - Which is the better trail for hooking up? 00:48:15 - Do micro clues still apply on trail? 00:51:54 - What's your strategy for managing periods on trail? 00:59:00 - Discussion about iron supplements 01:00:50 - How do you deal with feeling weak while on your period? 01:03:07 - Chaunce's strategy 01:07:25 - Chaunce's Foothills Trail story 01:20:20 - Anything else period related? 01:23:30 - Discussion about shaving 01:33:15 - Have you ever tried or used a pee funnel? 01:44:00 - How do you prevent UTIs on trail if you're prone to them? 01:50:00 - Do you use Kula Cloths? 01:56:35 - Discussion about fear mongering 02:11:00 - Discussion about mansplaining 02:16:23 - How can girls be fearless on trail? 02:25:20 - Have your fears changed or lessened since you first started thru-hiking? 02:29:00 - How do you manage backpacking and hiking as a mom? 02:33:13 - How did you come to terms with the fact that your backpacking will forever be different? 02:35:00 - Are there ways to make the transition to motherhood smoother as a hiker? 02:37:57 - Do you find that people interact with you differently on trail? 02:39:00 - Would you advise couples Triple Crown before kids if that's their goal? 02:41:38 - Discussion about girl relationships on trail 02:53:45 - What are the best bras for long hikes? 03:04:20 - Have you ever tasted your own milk? Segments Trek Propaganda: Top Stoves, Filters, Rain Gear, and More on the Appalachian Trail: 2023 Thru-Hiker Survey by Kate Richard QOTD: What is better: brand new backpacking gear or new school supplies? Triple Crown of names you don't like being called Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/. 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: Hailey Buckingham , 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, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, 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, 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 Maggie Slepian aka Honey Badger. Maggie is the former Managing Editor at The Trek and their first full-time employee, a thru-hiker, and a prolific freelance writer and editor. We learn all about Maggie's treks, including her hikes of the AT, Ouachita Trail, Colorado Trail, some recent postcard hikes in Madeira and Malta, and Maggie shares what it was like to have her first “failed” thru-hike attempt on the Arizona Trail. We also chat about nude modeling, what it's like to have an article to mega-viral, and how misogyny in the backcountry has improved since her first thru-hike. We wrap the show with some Hitchhiking Advice for Women, we learn how common or uncommon it is to be able to unfocus your eyesight on command, and the triple crown of one-hit wonder songs featuring Chaunce's boyfriend Garrett.  Mountainsmith: Use code “TREKZERK24” for 40% off at mountainsmith.com. Danner: Use code “TREK15” for 15% off Mountain 600 boots at danner.com. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. Ka'Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. [divider] Interview with Maggie “Honey Badger” Slepian Instagram  Website Substack Backpacking Routes  Time stamps & Questions 00:05:05 - Reminders: Apply to blog for the Trek or become a Trek Ambassador and use code “gingerstuff” for an exclusive discount at the Trek's store! 00:06:35 - Introducing Maggie 00:09:12 - How did you get involved with the Trek? 00:14:06 - Tell us about nude modeling 00:19:55 - How did the AT fall on your map? 00:21:25 - What gear did you bring on the AT for your first hike? 00:24:08 - Tell us about hiking the trail with a partner and the way people perceived you 00:28:45 - What were your top honey badger moments? 00:30:49 - How have you seen misogyny in the backcountry change over time? 00:37:08 - Are you more or less spicy in business or personally? 00:40:00 - Tell us about hiking the Ouachita Trail in 2020 00:46:19 - What considerations did you make when picking which direction to hike? 00:48:50 - What type of preparation did you do for the Ouachita Trail? 00:52:29 - Tell us the highlights of the Ouachita Trail 00:54:14 - Discussion of the Ouachita Trail logistics and resupplies 00:56:30 - Story about meeting Warren Doyle 00:58:27 - What's the best season for this trail? 00:59:11 - What portions of the Oregon Coast Trail have you done? 01:01:01 - Any highlights from the Colorado Trail? 01:02:27 - Tell us about the Arizona Trail 01:06:39 - Discussion about sun poisoning 01:12:06 - Do you feel liberated because you quit the Arizona Trail? 01:17:27 - Tell us about Madeira 01:23:14 - How many of the hikes are approachable for someone with a fear of exposure? 01:24:18 - What other European treks did you do? 01:27:27 - Tell us about your most viral article 01:32:47 - What other articles of yours have gone viral? 01:37:00 - Discussion about being recognized in the real world 01:41:20 - How do you handle your privacy? 01:43:50 - What's your experience with hunting? Segments Trek Propaganda: After 9,500 Miles on Trail, Here's My Top Hitchhiking Advice for Women by Peg Leg QOTD: Can you unfocus your eyesight on command? Triple Crown of one hit wonder 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: Hailey Buckingham , 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, Jason “Snail” Snailer barely know her, 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, 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 Trek's Managing Editor, Kelly “Ibex” Floro. We learn all about what it's like to have Zach as a boss, Kelly's top tips for how to afford a thru-hike, and she shares insights from her own thru-hiking adventures including the AT, Wind River High Route, and we dive especially deep into Kelly's most recent thru-hike of the Pyrenean Haute Route through the Pyrenees, straddling the border between Spain and France. Kelly gives us an in-depth run-through of this epic route, including when to hike, which direction, navigation challenges, resupply strategy, the various geographic highlights, the culture surrounding the trail, and much more. We wrap the show with useful smartphone apps for your next thru-hike, how Zach got concussed recording a podcast, and the triple crown of short off-season thru-hikes. Mountainsmith: Use code “TREKZERK24” for 40% off at mountainsmith.com. Ka'Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. [divider] Interview with Kelly Floro Kelly's Trek bio Time stamps & Questions 00:05:15 - Reminders: Get your tickets for a live BPR podcast in Denver on April 23, support us on Patreon, and suggest a potential guest who will be at Trail Days this year! 00:09:15 - Introducing Kelly 00:12:27 - How do you like working for Zach? 00:17:55 - How did you start thru-hiking? 00:19:52 - At what point did you consider yourself a good writer? 00:20:30 - Do you have tips for someone who wants to blog their hike? 00:25:45 - Was the AT your first backpacking trip? 00:27:12 - What did you learn on that hike? 00:29:45 - What were you thinking about career wise when you hiked the AT? 00:32:40 - When did you realize you wanted to do more thru-hikes? 00:33:15 - What surprised you despite all the preparation you did? 00:36:20 - Tell us about dealing with poison ivy on the AT 00:41:27 - Discussion about flip flopping the AT 00:45:24 - Do you have tips for someone considering a flip flop hike on the AT? 00:51:00 - Would you recommend flip flopping the AT? 00:55:20 - Tell us about hiking the Colorado Trail 00:57:22 - Tell us about the Wind River High Route 00:59:23 - What are the differences between the two route options? 01:02:55 - What's the most challenging part of the Adventure Alan route? 01:05:45 - What tips would you give to someone who wants to try backcountry navigation? 01:09:20 - What navigational resources were available for the route? 01:11:14 - How much did you enjoy this style of hiking? 01:12:38 - Any non obvious advice for the Wind River High Route? 01:15:00 - Tell us about the Pyrenean Haute Route 01:20:00 - Discussion about the refuges on the HRP 01:21:48 - How and why did you choose this route? 01:24:55 - Which direction do you hike? 01:27:11 - What were the standout towns? 01:32:09 - How crowded was the trail? 01:35:14 - What do the resupplies look like? 01:40:40 - Tell us about the wine you had along the HRP 01:41:42 - Are there any ‘must zero' places? 01:43:27 - Can you describe the Pyrenean mountains? 01:45:53 - Tell us the story about throwing your phone off a cliff 01:48:22 - How did you manage the rest of your gear for your Europe trip? 01:50:20 - Tell us about Bulgaria 01:53:05 - Have you heard of the Peaks of the Balkans trail? 01:54:49 - What do you have for health insurance in Europe? 01:56:18 - What have you learned while traveling in Europe? 01:57:25 - What are your current big 5 gear items? 01:59:20 - What gear has surprised you recently? 02:00:20 - What goes into a standout gear review? 02:01:40 - What stands out to you about thru-hiking affordably? 02:04:27 - What are some of your favorite hidden gems in Olympic National Park? Segments Trek Propaganda: 13 Useful Smartphone Apps for Your Next Thru-Hike by Danielle Krolewicz QOTD: What's the longest: a microwave minute, a hangover minute, or a treadmill minute? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of short thru-hikes you can do in the offseason Plug Me: Brew Davis's Website 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, Hailey Buckingham, 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, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, Chaunce hiked the Foothills Trail! With Chaunce being just a few days removed from this 76-mile gem of a hike, the trail is fresh on her mind, and she provides us a detailed rundown of her experience and standout stories, the trail's many highlights, how it was doing this trek with Harper, a full overview of her gear, an encounter with a zombie ghost, and all the nitty gritty logistics one could dream of having heading into this waterfally, bridgey hike in the Carolinas. We wrap the show with what our old person traits are, a triple crown of non-toilet paper items to wipe your bung with on trail, 36 east coast trails you can hike, and some details about an upcoming live podcast. Ka'Chava: Get 10% off at kachava.com/backpacker. Jenna Davis: Email jenna@firstsummitrealty.com or call 303-946-9476 to get a free consultation. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek. Appalachian Gear Company: Use code “BPRADIO20” for 20% off at appalachiangearcompany.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “DINGLEBERRY” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.  [divider] Interview with Chaunce! Time stamps & Questions 00:04:05 - Reminders: Mark your calendars for a BPR live podcast in Denver on April 23, leave a 5 star review on Apple and email us to get a BPR sticker, and recommend a guest who will be at Trail Days! 00:08:50 - Why did Chaunce hike the Foothills Trail? 00:12:00 - How was the weather? 00:14:55 - What's the background of the Foothills Trail? 00:16:48 - How did you get to the trail, logistically? 00:19:35 - Discussion about the costs of the trail 00:25:00 - Discussion about getting to the trail 00:27:33 - Which direction did you hike? 00:32:42 - What was the terrain like? 00:34:20 - Can you camp wherever? 00:35:30 - Discussion about expectations versus reality for the hiking difficulty 00:37:22 - Discussion about day 2 of hiking 00:38:18 - Any notable highlights from the first couple days of trail? 00:41:00 - Discussion about wildlife 00:46:45 - Discussion about the bridges and stairs 00:51:23 - Discussion about Chaunce's massage 00:53:15 - Why didn't you bring a rain jacket? 00:54:30 - Tell us about hiking with Harper 00:57:10 - How crowded was the trail? 01:02:08 - What was the resupply situation like? 01:05:05 - Who would you recommend the Foothills Trail to? 01:07:38 - Discussion about the road walks 01:08:34 - Discussion about waterfalls 01:11:30 - Discussion about how challenging the hike was 01:14:50 - Any good poop stories? 01:15:50 - What were your favorite waterfalls and bridges? 01:16:40 - Would you describe the Foothills Trail as flat? 01:17:20 - Discussion about the gear Chaunce carried 01:33:18 - Discussion about Harper's gear Segments Trek Propaganda: 36 East Coast Trails That Aren't the Appalachian Trail by Diane Duffard QOTD: What's your old person trait? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of items to wipe your bung with Plug Me 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, 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 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 s

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.

After 18-year-old Tori Lang disappeared in July 2021, her best friend became the main suspect. But was it a murder or a suicide? Please subscribe to our other podcast, CIVIL, which covers civil cases and trials. Listen to the trailer here - https://link.chtbl.com/CivilPodcast Sponsors in this episode: BetterHelp: This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/COURT today to get 10% off your first month. Big Mad True Crime Podcast Progressive Insurance - Visit Progressive.com to get a quote with all the coverages you want, so you can easily compare and choose. The Jordan Harbinger Show - Search for The Jordan Harbinger Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. Pluto TV - Download the free Pluto TV app for Android, iPhone, Roku, and Fire TV and start streaming now. Jon Keur of Wayfare Recording Co provides post-production for the show. Please support Court Junkie with as little as $3 a month via Patreon.com/CourtJunkie to receive ad-free episodes. Help support Court Junkie with $6 a month and get access to bonus monthly episodes. Follow me on Twitter @CourtJunkiePod or Instagram at CourtJunkie

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.