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#QuestionOfTheDay: Who would you pick to be the McAfee equivalent on FOX?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
QOTD: What's an “I remember exactly where I was” moment from your childhood?
The MLB All-Star Game was last night, and The O.G. John Lopez has a few passing thoughts about the spectacle. Plus, C.J. Gardner-Johnson sat down with The Pivot Podcast and had some things to say — ITL reacts to his comments and what they reveal. QOTD: What's an “I remember exactly where I was” moment from your childhood? The crew shares theirs and hears unforgettable stories from listeners
#QuestionOfTheDay: Who missed out on a Top 25 in the last 25 years in the NFL?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
HR1 QOTD, Andy Talk: Chain of Custody, Hornet's Nest, DOJ Man Hours & Resources 7-15-25 by John Rush
The Texans report to training camp one week from today — what are the best- and worst-case scenarios in the key position battles heading into camp? From wide receiver depth to the offensive line shuffle, ITL breaks it all down. Meanwhile, what do the Astros have to do to guarantee themselves a chance to make a legit second-half run? The margin for error is razor-thin. QOTD: What's something you probably should've practiced before attempting — but didn't? The crew and listeners share stories of overconfidence and hard lessons.
With just one week until Texans training camp, ITL dives into the best- and worst-case scenarios across key position battles. From the O-line to wide receivers, who needs to step up? Meanwhile, the Astros limp into the break — what must they do to ensure a real second-half playoff push? QOTD: What's something you probably should've practiced before trying? Around The NFL delivers big headlines: Garrett Wilson gets paid — what does that mean for Nico Collins and the WR market? Teddy Bridgewater suspended? And are you sold on Reed Sheppard as the Rockets' backup PG? What's Popping closes the hour with stories from sports and entertainment. Reggie's Rewatch revisits Texans vs. Packers (Week 7), with takeaways and trends that still matter. In Lunch-Time Confessions, a hilariously bad Superman review has the crew cracking up. Plus, “Still in the League?” honors the NFL's oldest living player at 93 years old. And in Hour 4, ESPN's Top 10 LB Rankings drop — are the Texans getting disrespected, or is off-ball linebacker a hidden weakness? Finally, Figgy's Mixtape delivers the strange and hilarious: a crack in Seattle's Space Needle, phrases men hate hearing from women, and more.
QOTD: What's something you probably should have practiced before trying?
#QuestionOfTheDay: What team outside of Michigan do you want to hear from at B1G Media Days?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Astros finally limp into the All-Star Break — how are we feeling about the team as they reset? ITL breaks down where things stand and what to expect post-break. Plus, Texans training camp is around the corner — what are some early signs fans should hope to see from the squad? QOTD: What's an excuse that makes you instantly skeptical — even if it might be true? From traffic tales to “I forgot,” the crew and listeners sound off.
The Astros finally limp into the All-Star Break — how should fans feel about where things stand, and what needs to change after the reset? Meanwhile, Texans training camp is almost here: what are some early signs of promise to watch for? QOTD: What's an excuse that makes you instantly skeptical — even if it might be true? HR 2 dives into the ripple effect of Nick Caserio's aggressive draft strategy — did he ruin the market for second-round picks? And what would a potential Kirk Cousins trade to Indy mean for the Texans and the AFC South? What's Popping brings the latest buzz from sports, entertainment, and beyond. In HR 3, former Astros GM Jeff Luhnow speaks on the Crush City Territory Podcast about past moves — ITL reacts to his legacy. Then: what will it take for the Rockets to win a title, and what could derail them? Plus, a trip to Mi Tienda turns into classic Lunch-Time Confessions. HR 4 features ESPN's Top 10 QB list — and C.J. Stroud didn't make it. Is he now officially underrated? ITL debates. Then in Figgy's Mixtape: George Strait's benefit concert announcement, UNO hits Vegas casinos as a table game, and more offbeat headlines from across the culture.
QOTD: What's an excuse you hear that immediately makes you skeptical? True or not.
#QuestionOfTheDay: What are the top 5 college football rivalries?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the final hour, Nick and Big Joe were joined by comedian Greg Warren. They also talked NIL, The QOTD and did Celebrity Birthday
The Astros call up Brice Matthews — is this a smart move or a sign of desperation with all the injuries? ITL breaks it down. Plus, how good does the Texans' offense need to be this year for a deep playoff run? QOTD: What event — sports or otherwise — would you “Brewster's Millions” your way into if you had to spend a fortune fast? The crew shares their outrageous answers.
QOTD: What event – sports or non-sports – would you Brewster's Millions your way into?
QOTD: What is something you've had to do that you were completely unqualified for?
Jake Meyers is the latest name added to the Astros' growing injury list — ITL reacts to the ongoing drama and what it means moving forward. Christian Walker is set to return to the Astros lineup… can he provide the spark this team needs? QOTD: What's something you've had to do that you were completely unqualified for? The crew shares their own stories and hears from listeners stepping out of their depth.
Jake Meyers becomes the latest name in the Astros' injury saga, while Christian Walker returns to the lineup — can he provide the boost Houston needs? Plus, the crew reacts to personal moments of being completely unqualified in this morning's QOTD. Around The NFL, the NFLPA appeals the collusion ruling, and Bucs LT Tristan Wirfs is officially out against the Texans — with Charlie Heck expected to fill in. Also, John Lopez has some spicy NFL future bets. Which ones are worth your money? The Astros' injury drama with Jake Meyers. Who was wrong here, and why is this such a bad look for the Astros? In Lunch-Time Confessions, Luke Mauro's hair becomes the main topic. And in OG's Buy or Sell, the crew debates what trends and stories are worth believing. NFL Top 10 Safeties - more good news for the Texans. ITL debates. Then in Figgy's Mixtape: a wild Red Lobster review, Cinnamon Toast Crunch with bacon?! And the crew breaks down the greatest cereals of all time.
The Astros drop back-to-back games — is it time to start worrying? ITL reacts and breaks down the latest injury updates coming out of Houston. QOTD: What's the worst nickname you've ever heard — or been given? The crew and listeners share the most cringeworthy monikers.
QOTD: What's the worst nickname you ever heard?
The OG John Lopez is back from vacation and joins Luke Mauro and Figgy Fig to react to the Astros' loss to the Guardians. Plus, Rockets GM Rafael Stone finally speaks following the blockbuster KD trade — what did he say, and what does it mean moving forward? QOTD: What's the most uncomfortable part of traveling these days — and not just air travel? The crew and listeners share their travel pet peeves.
QOTD: What's the most uncomfortable thing about traveling now … and not just air travel?
In the first hour, Big Joe and Dr. Crane recap Nashville SC's win in extra time over the weekend. Question of the Day is, what movie makes you cry? Dr. Crane goes into the possibility and the want of baseball being as popular as football.
Off the holiday weekend, Luke Mauro, Criss Partee, and Figgy Fig (in for Reggie and Lopez) react to the Astros whooping the Dodgers — was that a statement series, and are the Astros officially the best team in baseball right now? Meanwhile, the Rockets made a big move by trading Cam Whitmore — will his presence be missed, or was it the right call? QOTD: What's something that isn't a sport, but you treat like one? From arguing over TV shows to grocery store strategies, the crew and listeners get competitive.
QOTD: What's something that isn't a sport that you treat as a sport?
Shout out to anyone who gets the reference in the Title ;)Originally aired on Diary of a Digital Nomad, this throwback episode is landing just in time for the 4th of July—because honestly, it feels more important than ever to talk about what “home” means.In this episode, I share 7 reflections I've had about the United States since living and traveling abroad. Some are light, some are a little heavy, and some might hit especially hard right now—like why it's okay to feel conflicted about patriotism, how work culture affects our lives, and what I've learned from seeing how other countries do things differently.I also talk about the distinction between a country and its government—and why I still believe there's a lot worth loving, celebrating, and fighting for.Whether you're celebrating, grieving, or just questioning what independence even means this year, you're not alone. Let this be a space to reflect, feel, and maybe even find a little hope.
QOTD: What 24/7 business would you want in your home?
ITL kicks off with reactions to the Rockets signing Dorian Finney-Smith and bringing back Clint Capela — is Houston finally reloading the right way? Meanwhile, the Astros continue to roll… is it time to take them over the field in the AL? QOTD: What's your most memorable “wait” — from love, life, or fandom? Around The NFL: T.J. Watt might be unhappy in Pittsburgh, and unsigned 2nd-round rookies are raising eyebrows. Plus, what's the best position group in Houston sports right now? And in What's Popping, the latest buzz from around the league and beyond. Reggie breaks down Week 5 vs. the Bills in his Texans Film Recap — what stood out, and what's still lacking? In Lunch-Time Confessions, Plus, as NBA rosters come into focus, which teams are starting to scare you? And to close it out, Texans RB Dameon Pierce spoke with Texans All Access — ITL reacts. Figgy's Mixtape brings heat with the best Fourth of July movies, some edgy commercials, and more fireworks from sports and pop culture.
The Rockets land Dorian Finney-Smith and bring back Clint Capela — how do we feel about what Houston is building? Is it finally time to take the Astros over the field in the AL? ITL breaks it all down. QOTD: What's your most memorable wait—from sports, life, or love?
QOTD: What's your most memorable wait?
Jabari “Bari” Smith Jr. gets his bag, and ITL with Reggie, Figgy & Criss Partee (in for John Lopez) reacts to the Rockets locking in one of their core pieces. The Astros win 2 of 3 against the Cubs — has the pitching quietly been the MVP lately? Around the NFL, Jalen Ramsey is headed to Pittsburgh, and Rockets trade rumors are swirling again. Reggie breaks down Texans-Jags Week 4 tape, T-Mac's place in today's NBA is debated, and Figgy's Mixtape features Beyoncé “Sittin Sideways” in H-Town and wild headlines from Orleans Parish. QOTD: What's your all-time favorite sports quote?
QOTD: What's your favorite sports quote?
Jabari Smith Jr. secures the bag! ITL with Reggie, Figgy, and Criss Partee (in for John Lopez) reacts to the extension and what it means for the Rockets' future. The Astros take 2 of 3 from the Cubs — how dominant has their pitching been lately? QOTD: What's your all-time favorite sports quote? From legends to laughs, the crew shares theirs.
QOTD: What do you celebrate like a bona fide “real” holiday?
Are the Astros actually better off without Kyle Tucker, Alex Bregman, and Ryan Pressly? John Lopez says yes — and ITL dives into the take. Also, a new stat breakdown ranks the NFL's best and worst play callers of the last 15 years. Where does Bobby Slowik land, and what does it say about the Texans' future? QOTD: What's something you celebrate like a legit holiday, even if it's not one?
Are the Astros better off without Kyle Tucker, Alex Bregman, and Ryan Pressly? John Lopez makes the case, and ITL dives into the bold take. Plus, a new 15-year stat breakdown ranks NFL play-callers — what does Bobby Slowik's spot say about his future in Houston? Around The NFL includes a surprising 10-game suspension for FA kicker Justin Tucker, wide receiver market moves that could affect Nico Collins, and B Scott's reaction to the Rockets pulling off the KD trade. Reggie reviews Texans vs. Vikings film from Week 3, and the crew discusses athletes who were the perfect fit for their city, including Johni Broome and Cam Matthews. Figgy might be moving out of the city, and he brings a wild Mixtape featuring a failed murder plot by 5th graders, a former Rocket's ex-drama, and more. Plus, what are your reflections so far in this Astros season midway through?, and the QOTD: What's something you celebrate like a legit holiday, even if it's not one?
#QuestionOfTheDay: How do you rank the top 5 in the B1G as of today?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Astros are surging and sending a message to the AL West — are they putting the entire league on notice? John Lopez shares his NBA Draft reactions with thoughts on the Rockets' moves and what stood out. QOTD: What's the weirdest way you've ever celebrated anything? Around The NFL covers Adrian Peterson's silence-breaking moment and former Steelers WRs stirring drama, while Rockets legend Calvin Murphy weighs in on the KD trade — is it championship or bust now? Reggie rewatches Week 2 vs. the Bears, Ed Oliver goes horseback riding (maybe), and ITL plays “Buy or Sell” with the latest sports buzz. Finally, which Houston team faces the biggest title hurdle, and what's the wildest story from Figgy's Mixtape? From NBA Draft fallout to courtroom surprises, ITL covers it all.
The Astros are hot — but is it for real? They're making statements in the AL West, and possibly sending a message to the rest of the league. Are they legit contenders again? Plus, passing thoughts on the NBA Draft: the Rockets were lurking, and John Lopez has plenty to say about what went down. What stood out most to you from draft night? QOTD: What's the weirdest way you've ever celebrated… anything? From random dances to oddball rituals, share your stories.
QOTD: What's the weirdest way you celebrated anything whatsoever?
#QuestionOfTheDay: Who is the best kicker in your time?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Astros win behind an unexpected hero, Cooper Hummel — ITL reacts to the surprise and what it could mean going forward. Draymond Green heaps praise on Alperen Sengun — is the league finally catching up? The Texans release their training camp dates, including a Greenbrier trip, and PFF drops its Top 10 NFL Coaches list. Plus, Fred VanVleet signs a new deal with the Rockets. Reggie gives his takeaways from Week 1 vs Indy, Judge John Lopez returns to rule on wild sports stories, and Xavier Hutchinson shares thoughts on his playoff moment and the Texans' new offense. In Figgy's Mixtape: B. Simone stirs controversy, a bizarre injury coincidence 33 years apart, and more. QOTD: What's something you never finished — and do you regret it?
QOTD: What's something you never finished? Regrets or nah.
The Astros win... thanks to Cooper Hummel? ITL breaks down the surprise performance and what it means moving forward. Plus, Draymond Green gives Alperen Sengun big-time praise on The Pivot — is the league finally catching up to what Rockets fans already knew? QOTD: What's something you never finished — a project, a dream, a show, a meal — and do you regret it or not? The crew reflects on unfinished business.
#QuestionOfTheDay: Where are the 3 best restaurants you've eaten at?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
QOTD: What's the most unfortunate time you ever dropped a cuss word?
John Lopez is back with bold takes on Kevin Durant and a fresh debate: does Rockets GM Rafael Stone deserve more credit than he gets? The Astros may be sitting in first, but is it as secure as it looks? ITL breaks it down. QOTD: What's the worst possible time you've dropped a cuss word? Around The NFL: Anthony Richardson says he's ready for camp, while Jets owner Woody Johnson is making moves in Premier League ownership. Plus, how should we really measure C.J. Stroud's growth in Year 2 — beyond stats? What's Popping has the latest from the sports and entertainment world. What still stands in the Rockets' way post-KD trade? ITL lays out the final hurdles. Plus, new collusion concerns in the NFL? The crew investigates. And in Lunch-Time Confessions, Kyle Tucker and Ryan Pressly get their flowers — Finally, a new list of top NFL offenses is out — where do the Texans rank, and is it fair? In Figgy's Mixtape: an ice rink fugitive update, smart ways to stay cool on a budget, and XXL's newest batch of rap rookies.
John Lopez is back with strong Kevin Durant takes — and some questions about how much credit Rafael Stone truly deserves. Are the Astros really as comfortably in first place as it looks? It might not be that simple. QOTD: What's the most unfortunate time you've ever accidentally dropped a cuss word?
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Julia Sheehan, known on trail, as Rocket. Julia is a thru-hiker, former Trek Vlogger, social media sensation, nurse, and now a published author. Julia details how impulsive decision-making lead her to the wonderful world that is thru-hiking, inspired in part by everyone's favorite Hiking Viking. Rocket also shares how health issues ultimately forced her off-trail, the unsavory response she's gotten from some in the social media sphere in light of “quitting” and subsequently posting non-hiking content. Julia also shares the process in self-publishing her brand new book, Hiking is the Easy Part, a memoir of her thru-hike on the AT. We wrap the show with some news about Trail Correspondents 2026 edition, the story of a hiker that was found alive at a popular PCT pitstop after being lost in the backcountry for weeks, how much weight people lose during an AT thru-hike (and why it's generally not a good long term weight loss strategy), Chaunce and I have a borderline-impossible coincidence during today's QOTD, and the triple crown of albums. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKSPRING15” at topoathletic.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com. Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at ombraz.com/backpacker30. Betterment: Learn more at betterment.com/trek. [divider] Interview with Julia “Rocket” Sheehan Rocket's Instagram Rocket's Youtube Rocket's Blog Time stamps & Questions 00:05:30 - Reminders: Sign up for the Trek's newsletter, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon and apply to blog for the Trek! 00:07:45 - Introducing Rocket 00:08:20 - Tell us about your social media journey 00:15:30 - Did you ever feel like you could make a living from social media? 00:17:10 - Tell us about your background in the military 00:19:30 - How did you transition from the military to nursing? 00:21:15 - Can you talk about running from things prior to thru-hiking? 00:23:00 - Discussion about Rocket's eating disorder 00:27:50 - What got you to the AT? 00:32:00 - What was the beginning of the AT like? 00:34:45 - At what point did thru-hiking click for you? 00:38:57 - What's the hard part of thru-hiking? 00:43:00 - Tell us about the half gallon challenge 00:45:15 - How did you get your trail name? 00:48:00 - What did you think of the AZT? 00:50:20 - How did covid impact your hike? 00:52:35 - Did you encounter rattlesnakes or other creatures? 00:53:40 - What was the water situation like early in the season? 00:54:14 - Tell us about starting the CDT SOBO? 00:57:45 - What was the commentary like when you got off trail? 01:00:50 - How did you end up on the PCT? 01:02:10 - Tell us the story about getting off the PCT 01:06:50 - Did your nursing background help you diagnose anything? 01:07:50 - What was the backlash after getting off the PCT? 01:12:40 - What yoga poses would you recommend to thru-hikers? 01:14:14 - How is your health now? 01:16:40 - Tell us about writing your book 01:20:25 - What's the most revealing thing you put in the book? 01:22:42 - How's the early response been for the book? 01:25:10 - What's next for you? 01:27:01 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: Missing Sierra Hiker Found Alive at Popular PCT Pitstop After Weeks Lost in the Backcountry by Katie Jackson AT Thru-Hikers Are Losing a Shocking Amount of Weight On-Trail: Here's How To Not Lose Too Much by Katie Jackson QOTD: What's something you learned embarrassingly late in life? Triple Crown of albums Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee. Sign up for the Trek's newsletter 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, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger' Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.