Backpacker Radio

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

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Minus33, we are joined by Badger's pal, Billy Widmer. In addition to being The Trek's go-to tech guru, Billy has an accomplished backpacking resume that includes an AT thru-hike, a lot of trekking through his native lands of New York, and a recent and very unorthodox thru-hike of the Arizona Trail. The conversation spins off in a predictably tangential fashion, where we talk about web 3.0, the blockchain, and the mental health impacts of 100% remote work. We wrap the show with a triple crown of ways to stave off the winter blues and the news of some recent bear activity near McAfee Knob on the AT. Minus33: Head to minus33.com and use code "21backpacker15" for 15% off your order Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "littledonkeygirl" for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Excludes Black Friday sale. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code "thetrek10" here. Code excludes holiday sale running 11/19/21 - 11/29/21, where shoppers can score 10% off customer & 20% off stock. Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code "backpacker" and get 25% off everything in the store and free shipping within the U.S. from 11/26-11/30. After those dates, get 20% off your entire purchase with code "backpacker" Interview with Billy Widmer Time stamps & Questions 00:04:13 - QOTD: What's your death row meal? 00:07:20 - Welcome Billy! 00:07:52 - How did you get your trail name? 00:08:44 - Is that your death row meal? 00:09:00 - Were you always vegan in NY? 00:09:35 - What's your hiking background? 00:10:24 - Was that your first long-distance hiking trip? 00:10:48 - What have you been up to since the AT? 00:12:07 - When did you do the Uinta Highline? 00:12:22 - Give us the rundown on that! 00:12:56 - Does Utah get similar weather too Colorado? 00:13:41 - Why did you choose eastbound? 00:14:10 - Is there a logistical reason why people go one way versus another? 00:14:26 - How much of it is trailed? 00:15:00 - Is there a specific difference between the East terrain and West terrain? 00:15:56 - For someone interested in the Uinta Highline, do you have any prep advice? 00:17:14 - What is the Nolan's 14? 00:18:07 - Do you have to complete it in a certain amount of time? 00:18:26 - How many people have done it within 60 hours? 00:18:56 - What went wrong in your attempt? 00:19:57 - Did you give yourself checkpoints for pacing? 00:21:11 - What Mt. Elbert the first 14er you ever did? 00:21:28 - Would you make another attempt? 00:21:44 - Did you do Capitol Peak? 00:22:28 - What is it like going over the knife's edge on Capitol Peak? 00:23:18 - Chaunce, would you do Capitol Peak? 00:24:19 - Have you done any other 14ers that rival Capitol Peak? 00:24:51 - How does that compare to climbing in Yosemite? 00:25:15 - What's the most intense climbing you've done? 00:26:12 - Where did your idea for the AZT come from? 00:28:30 - Because of the water access, did your route work for you? 00:29:39 - What was your timeframe for hiking the AZT? 00:30:35 - Was it a fairly solo journey? 00:31:07 - Does your mind start playing tricks on you? 00:32:16 - What was the wildlife like? 00:33:24 - Do bites happen regularly? 00:34:53 - Any other wildlife encounters? 00:35:07 - What is a Gila monster? 00:35:50 - Are they endangered or just good at hiding? 00:36:02 - Do they bite? 00:36:33 - How long did it take you to hike the AZT? 00:37:43 - What was your average daily mileage? 00:38:01 - How does the AZT compare to the AT? 00:38:58 - Would you do it again? 00:39:33 - Did you encounter ridiculously hot days? 00:39:58 - Were you hiking in the evenings at all? 00:40:22 - Did you become the Guthook/Far Out hero? 00:41:11 - Any other notable highlights/lowlights from the AZT? 00:42:17 - Do you wish you would have picked a longer trail? 00:45:24 - As a vegan, what do you eat on trail? 00:48:11- What do you like about working for Zach? 00:48:55 - What do you hate about working for Zach? 00:50:27 - What has your career path looked like? 00:52:12 - Is it accurate that other companies try to lure you in with benefits or perks? 00:54:08 - What's Chaunce's candy count so far? 00:55:02 - How do you get started in the tech world? 00:55:40 - Is there a specific programming language someone should start with? 00:56:14 - Do you need to be proficient in math to be a good developer? 00:57:30 - What is web 3.0? 01:00:40 - It decentralizes everything right? 01:01:10 - What is proof of concept? 01:02:29 - What is a "block"? 01:04:11 - Do you believe this is the future of universal currency? 01:05:42 - What's an NFT and is Zach one? 01:09:56 - You mentioned you think everything will be digital. What would a digital world look like? 01:11:03 - Do people think it's bad that things will all become digital? 01:14:02 - How do you feel about remote work? 01:19:26 - What's your major fuck up at The Trek? 01:21:50 - What's on your outdo

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

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

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

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

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we open the show with a Hiker Trash edition of "Hot Ones", where Chaunce and Badger are grilled by Elise while eating incredibly hot wings. Tears, fear, and slamming beers ensues. We also feature our most impromptu interview to date with our new pal, Fancy Feast. Fancy Feast just wrapped a thru-hike of the Colorado Trail, after having her SOBO PCT plans thwarted by California's fires. In addition to giving us the unenviable story of finding Badger's dirty socks, she shares her experiences of working a variety of conservation jobs, including her time at the Green Mountain Club, and quite possibly the funniest trail name origin story we've ever heard. We wrap the show with a triple crown of the most beautiful spaces we've seen while backpacking, a quick n dirty gear review on the Platypus QuickDraw, and some listener feedback on period underwear. Minus33: Head to minus33.com and use code "21backpacker15" for 15% off your order Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off of Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code "thetrek10" here Organifi discount code: Use code "backpacker" at organifi.com/backpacker for 20% off your purchase ZBiotics: Use code "trek10" at zbiotics.com [divider] Interview with Fancy Feast Fancy Feast's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:40 - QOTD: Do people attempting an FKT take the time to bury their poop? 00:06:30 - Backpacker Team Hot Ones 00:07:23 - How is everyone's spice tolerance? 00:09:05 - Chaunce, what's the longest you have gone without a shower? 00:11:00 - Zach, are there any big adventure plans with Leo? 00:12:20 - Chaunce, if you could co-host with someone other than Zach, who would you pick? 00:12:42 - Zach, if you could co-host with someone other than Chaunce, who would you pick? 00:14:03 - Can you name the first 10 episodes of Backpacker Radio in order? 00:18:11 - Zach, do you and Chaunce ever argue over creative differences? If so, when? 00:21:10 - Chaunce, what annoys you the most about Zach? 00:23:03 - Zach, can you explain this Tweet: "We imitate dog stretches and sexual positions, but not their affinity for goose shit. Seems arbitrary to me." What inspired that? 00:24:23 - Chaunce, are there any episodes you wish you could erase? 00:27:29 - What's the most annoying thru-hiking cliche? 00:31:34 - Chaunce, are you single? 00:32:07 - Zach, what was the last thing you lied to Jenna about? 00:33:39 - Chaunce, do you know what the Vas Deferens are? The seminal vesicles? The corona? 00:38:21 - Zach, can you sing "Walking Slow" by Animal Years? 00:40:11 - What's the worst Leave No Trace error you've made? 00:43:13 - Out of all the guests on the show, are there any that you'd never want to hike with or have back on the show? 00:44:50 - Chaunce and Zach, will either of you triple crown? 00:49:10 - Introducing Fancy Feast 00:50:26 - Backstory of Zach's sock search 00:53:22 - When did you finish the Colorado Trail? 00:53:39 - Give us your backpacking resume 00:57:06 - What was it like to work for the Green Mountain Club? 00:57:12 - Walk us through your job 00:58:00 - How do you go about educating other hikers? 00:58:43 - How did you handle poop stirring tasks? 00:58:57 - What do you stir the waste with? 00:59:43 - How many total privies have you stirred? 01:01:14 - What is the difference between the privies? 01:01:51 - Do you wear a N95 mask when doing those tasks? 01:02:02 - Have you ever gotten poop soup on you? 01:03:13 - What happens after the composting process begins? 01:03:34 - Where does the new soil get distributed? 01:04:34 - Do you have any advice for others looking for a similar job? 01:05:46 - Anything else on the hiking resume? 01:07:00 - What is it like to be told you need to get off trail vs. when you make the decision yourself? 01:10:05 - When you switched to the Sierra, was it a strategic decision? 01:10:48 - Did you hike the CT with other PCT hikers? 01:13:04 - What was the journey like getting from the PCT to the CT? 01:15:58 - What's the Southwest Conservation Corp? 01:16:35 - What are some examples of the work? 01:18:00 - How did you end up getting into conservation work? 01:19:33 - Give us your pitch on why trail maintenance is rewarding 01:22:52 - How many compliments do you get on your hat? 01:23:20 - How did you find out about Zach's socks? 01:24:04 - Did you have trouble finding them? 01:24:48 - What was appealing about the sock hunt? 01:26:44 - What hike is next? 01:27:28 - Do you have to worry about snow? 01:29:04 - What knowledge do you need to have about cows? 01:30:26 - Is this a paid role? 01:30:36 - Is there an adventure planned for after ski bumming? 01:31:29 - If you went back on the conservation end of the spectrum, do you have a dream conservation job? 01:32:15 - How did you get the name Fancy Feast? 01:34:58 - Did it taste like it smells? 01:35:24 - Have you eaten cat food since? 01:36:45 - As a listener, what is something you've always wanted to say t

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

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

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Lauren and Henri de la Vega — a husband and wife southbounding the Continental Divide Trail to complete their triple crown. We take a journey down memory lane in both romance and trails and get an in-depth play-by-play on their CDT hike thus far. This chat paints an awesome picture of some of the alternates that are available, how to spot geothermal activity under the ground when in the backcountry of Yellowstone, and risk tolerances based on experiences from the PCT. It ends with the cutest Q&A, trek propaganda on a breakout of COVID in the AT portion of Maine, a heated triple crown of cereals, and more. Backcountry.com discount code: Use code "backpackerradio" at backcountry.com/backpackerradio to get 15% off your first full price purchase Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "gingersaregood" for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Vital Farms: Check out vitalfarms.com to learn more about where honest food is raised Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code "thetrek10" here. Interview with Lauren & Henri de la Vega Lauren's Instagram Henri's Instagram Lauren & Henri's Guiding Company Time stamps & Questions 00:04:15 - QOTD: How was your last week? 00:09:54 - General Reminders: Wisconsin meetups & new intern 00:11:45 - Guest introductions 00:13:18 - Did you meet on trail? 00:15:42 - Did the woman you babysat for officiate your wedding? 00:16:05 - Did you both have an interest in thru-hiking? 00:17:01 - How long had you been dating when you started the AT? 00:17:23 - Did you enjoy the transition to sharing the same tent, and giving up your personal space? 00:19:04 - How is SOBOing the CDT going? 00:19:50 - When did you start the CDT? 00:19:55 - What was the weather like at the time? 00:20:34 - Were there any big gear changes from the AT/PCT/CDT? 00:21:24 - Did the tent give you peace of mind with the bears? 00:22:20 - What was your reaction when you thought a bear collapsed the tent? 00:22:50 - Did the fires impact your hike? 00:25:28 - What was the scenery like on the Big Sky route? 00:26:03 - How many miles have you hiked? 00:27:57 - How does your mileage tracking impact your resupply? 00:30:15 - What's the most amount of people you think you've seen on a given day? 00:30:53 - Are you finding it's primarily hikers on their 3rd trail, or beginners? 00:31:29 - What's the wildlife been like? 00:35:17 - Is the pika encounter the scariest animal encounter you've had in your life? 00:35:34 - When you walked through Yellowstone, were you able to do some sightseeing? 00:36:36 - Weren't you worried about the thermal areas while hiking? 00:37:32 - How do you identify thermal areas? 00:39:20 - Were you able to identify any of the thermal areas yourself? 00:41:00 - Can the thermal hot springs be used as a water source? 00:41:14 - Are people swimming in these spots? 00:42:38 - When were you passing through Yellowstone? 00:42:44 - Where do you go after Yellowstone? 00:44:49 - Was the alternate to Jackass Pass similar to Mahoosuc Notch? 00:45:36 - How long is the alternate in comparison to Mahoosuc Notch? 00:47:10 - Did you look at photos before getting to the CDT destinations? 00:48:07 - Since you didn't see photos beforehand, were you surprised by your reaction to some of the views or spots? 00:49:02 - What were your "Oh shit!" moments on the trails? 01:04:33 - What was underneath the hole you created on Mather Pass? 01:06:46 - Did people on Facebook weigh in on what the hole was? 01:08:18 - Was it Strawberry or Tree? 01:10:54 - Did Strawberry's accident impact your risk tolerance? 01:13:40 - Where were you Guiding in New York? 01:13:55 - Is it for kids or adults? 01:14:49 - Is it a course you take to become a Guide? 01:15:46 - What types of questions are asked that could be completed on the scantron? 01:16:36 - Back to the CDT, was there anything else to mention about the Wind River Range? 01:23:13 - Filtering cow shit water 01:24:06 - What happens after the basin? 01:25:43 - When you're doing a stretch of roadway, where do you camp at night? 01:29:14 - What do you say to a cop when you get in trouble for camping on the road? 01:29:46 - Was there anything notable about Colorado we should hit on? 01:34:48 - Does it make you feel better to check the elevation gain of your hike? 01:35:51 - When playing fuck/marry/kill, why would you kill the CDT? 01:36:23 - When did you complete your 14ers 01:36:48 - Is Leadville the last town you were in? 01:38:06 - What are you looking forward to next? 01:39:19 - Did you go into Montbell while you were in Denver, to get puffy pants? 01:42:50 - What's your biggest pet peeve about each other while on the trail? 01:45:40 - What is the most endearing thing the other person has done? 01:47:48 - How do you fish when on trail? 01:48:15 - If you catch something do you keep it or catch and release? 01:49:49 - What's one thing that made you want to m

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Ben Crawford of the Crawford Family. In 2018, Ben Crawford, along with his wife Kami, and their six kids, ages between two and sixteen years old, thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail. We learn all about the unique challenges of this undertaking, including how to keep kids spirits high when hiking in snow for over a month, what their gear system looked like, and how they handled a very mixed reception from the online hiking community. This conversation also takes some wlid turns including how Ben and Kami were excommunicated from their Christian Missionary group, how he hit the jackpot as a blackjack card counter, and why he doesn't school his kids (either in the traditional sense or with homeschooling). We wrap the show by announcing the winners of our big episode 100 giveaway, we have a triple crown of villains, and we get some horse facts, llama edition. OnX discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Greenbelly discount code: Use code: "TREK2021" to save 10% sitewide at greenbelly.co Goodr discount code: Use code "backpacker15" to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15 Check out Hikerlink.co to connect with hiker trash past, present and future. Interview with Ben Crawford Instagram Youtube 2,000 Miles Together (Book) Their AT documentary Holy Rollers: The True Story of Cound Carting Christians 00:04:41: QOTD: What is your favorite crossfit lift? 00:10:00 - Welcome Ben Crawford of the Crawford Family 00:10:14 - Give us the full breakdown of how you got started on the AT 00:12:04 - Does the government have it's own branded peanut butter? 00:14:00 - Did you have a family to look up to before starting the trail? 00:16:10 - Can you do a run through of the kids and their ages? 00:17:56 - Are you and your wife still religious? 00:18:46 - Why were you excommunicated? 00:20:15 - When you were excommunicated did you lose all of your friends? Or did you have friends outside the church? 00:21:25 - What led you to start questioning what was happening around you? 00:24:50 - When did you make the leap from realizing your kids were physically capable to deciding to hike the AT? 00:28:31 - When did you start the trail and when did you plan to finish? 00:29:20 - Can you tell us how cold it was in March when you started? 00:30:41 - What were the hikers around you saying seeing a family that big with temperatures that low? 00:32:14 - Were the kids carrying their own gear? What was your overall gear system and setup? 00:33:20 - What tent did you have for the kids? 00:37:30 - What is your strategy for keeping morale up for the whole family? 00:40:28 - What was your parenting style that created adventurous, outdoorsy kids? 00:44:20 - Is there any science to show that it's bad for kids to over exert themselves at such a young age? 00:47:07 - Can you talk about CPS getting involved while you were out on trail? 00:49:51 - How did you deal with people talking about you online? 00:51:07 - What happened when the government was called? 00:55:00 - You think the person who called on you did so from youtube? 00:56:29 - What is unschooling? 00:58:21 - Do you think your rejection of institutions and institutionalization comes from your upbringing in the church? 00:59:32 - Can you talk about your career and entrepreneurial pursuits? What was your business life like prior to the trail? 01:04:14 - How do you get people to start black jack? 01:04:26 - Holy Rollers: The True Story of Cound Carting Christians 01:05:18 - Do people need a certain background to be good at black jack? 01:06:46 - So is it against house rules? 01:09:28 - Have you always been good at math? And what skills are required to execute this? And What is it? 01:11:07 - So you need learning money? 01:12:04 - What's the advantage without counting cards? 01:14:25 - How do kids learn math when they are doing unschooling? Or other things that are essential to doing "life" things? 01:16:45 - What about reading? 01:17:28 - Do you have any sort of confines for the kids? Are there things kids have to do during the day? 01:20:58 - Is it easier for you to give 45k for your kids to build a house after doing black jack? 01:22:15 - What happened with the kids and the house? 01:22:36 - Are you teaching them the carpentry skills, etc.? 01:24:40 - Do you have any framework for how you go about something like giving the kids a house? 01:28:22 - Can you tell us the Katahdin story and the conclusion to your hike? 01:33:40 - How can people budget for a thru-hike? Or go outside the confines of a 9-5 to fund a hike? SEGMENTS Episode 100 Winner: Package 1 Winner: Justin Cornell Package 2 Winner: Meredith Snyder Package 3 Winner: Henk Humes Honorable Mention for Chuck Lopez for putting all the show intros together Trek Propaganda Backcountry Guide Killed in Grizzly Bear Attack Near Yellowstone by Tina Mullen The Top Down Jackets for Backpacking The Top Synthetic Jackets for Backpac

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dr. Freeborn Mondello. Freeborn, who is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, explodes our brains with some non-conventional advice for hikers, backpackers, and really any endurance athlete. This includes why stretching might be a waste of time, the importance of heavy weight resistance training, and why the traditional 3 sets of 10 reps is going to be counterproductive to your goals- and yes those last two points are not contradictory. Whether you're training for a hike or simply want to maintain good health, you'll find this conversation fascinating- we sure did. We wrap the show with a triple crown of days of the week, a new gross or not gross, and some good innovating pee pants for people with vaginas. OnX Backcountry discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Greenbelly discount code: Use code: "TREK2021" to save 10% sitewide at greenbelly.co Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Check out Hikerlink.co to connect with hiker trash past, present and future. Interview with Dr.Freeborn Mondello RunfreePT.com Instagram - @runfreept Youtube - RunfreePT Free consults over video or in person — [email protected] 00:04:30 - QOTD: What's an injury you have that always comes back? 00:06:47 - Welcome Dr.Freeborn Mondello! 00:07:43 - You've done multiple iron man races? What does that entail? 00:10:09 - What is the chafe situation like after a 2.4 mile swim and immediately hopping onto a bike? 00:11:12 - Where have you done your iron man races? 00:12:48 - Did you consider throwing in the towel on the 106 degree day? 00:15:02 - You're a champion mountain biker? 00:16:10 - How do you go from excelling at a sport where you use high twitch muscles to a sport that uses slow twitch muscles? 00:17:46 - Have you had your muscle twitch fibers measured? 00:18:49 - Is there any science to support being able to switch your muscle fiber types? 00:19:57 - So you grew up in Silver City near Gila National Forest? 00:20:30 - So you've been familiar with the CDT for a long time? 00:22:01 - How did you get into physical therapy? 00:25:19 - Is there anything cool you learned why getting your doctorate that most people wouldn't know or expect? 00:27:00 - How much of a role does neurology play in PT? 00:30:26 - Can you explain dry needling? 00:34:10 - So it's really your nervous system sometimes telling you that you can't do something rather than your muscular system? 00:36:30 - Would an orthopedic surgeon have a different take? 00:37:14 - How do the mechanics of dry needling work? How far in does the needle go? 00:40:12 - Can you tell us about the performance enhancing aspect of dry needling? 00:42:41 - Is there something about dry needling that would make it against the rules? 00:44:06 - Does dry needling have a place in the context of a thru-hike? If this is their first time, are those dice worth rolling? 00:46:51 - Is dry needling more effective for acute injuries or chronic ones? 00:48:27 - How long does dry needling last? How often do people have to come back? 00:52:20 - How does the central nervous system play a role in weight training overall? 00:55:49 - Pavel's kettlebell training video and Rogan interview 00:56:26 - Can you define hypertrophy vs. strength training? 00:59:27 - Do the nutritional requirements differ in hypertrophy vs. strength training? 01:03:08 - What would your protocol be for someone getting ready to hike in a couple months? 01:09:40 - Can strength training work with things you have at home? 01:14:20 - Are kettlebells that different from dumbells? 01:15:44 - If you're on an island and you can only bring one kettle bell with you, what weight is it? 01:17:06 - How long are you supposed to swing kettlebells for? 01:18:57 - Don't just buy a kettle bell and start swinging! 01:20:20 - Why is 80% the ideal number for optimal strength training? 01:23:40 - Why is strength training important for endurance sports? Why is doing deadlifts helpful for someone going on a thru-hike? 01:26:17 - Is stretching helpful? What role does it play in endurance sports? 01:30:12 - Is foam rolling helpful? Balls that roll out your muscles? 01:32:08 - Is it possible that foam rollers or lacrosse balls do help people or is it a placebo effect? 01:34:37 - So stretching can help flexibility, but that doesn't necessarily help injury prevention? 01:36:04 - Can you talk about the difference between mobility and flexibility? 01:37:33 - So tension can just be solved with various workouts? 01:38:48 - What should someone look for to find a good physical therapist or a good personal trainer? 01:42:54 - Is being stretched to your full capacity after ACL surgery advisable? 01:43:53 - How can you tell the difference between an injury you need to rest and a sore muscle you can just push through? 01:46:34 - How do you open hip flexors to reduce lower back pain? 01:48:32 - What is your youtube cha

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

In today's episode of backpacker radio presented by the trek, we are joined by Emily Ford. Perhaps you've heard that name in the backpacking sphere of late, because Emily recently wrapped a thru-hike of Wisconsin's Ice Age Trail- in the dead of winter- becoming just the second person ever to do so, and the first woman. We do a deep dive on Emily's journey, including what gear she used, the weather conditions (spoiler alert- it was cold as hell), how she had to knock on strangers' doors to ask if she could sleep in their yard, and how she managed this trek alongside a husky that did not belong to her. This is a fun conversation. We wrap the show with a preview of The Trek's brand new podcast- Walking Distance, a Triple Crown of odd firsts, another edition of backpacking advice of the day, and some history of how North Carolina's tallest mountain played a role in the death of the person its named after. But first. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Greenbelly discount code: Use code: "TREK2021" to save 10% sitewide at greenbelly.co Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to save 25% at reelpaper.com Check out Hikerlink.co to connect with hiker trash past, present and future. Interview with Emily Ford Emily's Instagram 00:04:42 - QOTD: Do you like backpacking in the winter? Or what's the worst part of hiking in freezing temperatures? 00:08:00 - Welcome Emily Ford 00:08:20 - Where are you from originally and how and when did you get into backpacking? 00:09:54 - Did you hear what happened on Lake Superior? 00:10:23 - What kind of stuff did the people who were fishing lose? 00:10:57 - Why don't we hear your Minnesotan accent? 00:11:07 - What's the best accent you've got? 00:12:13 - When did your intro into hiking and backpacking begin? 00:14:02 - How much do you think rugby helped you train you for backpacking? 00:15:37 - Did your rugby coach's mantra play in your mind as you hiked? 00:16:18 - What made you want to do a winter thru-hike? 00:17:25 - Did you feel like it was a hard adjustment to backpacking after being used to quicker movements with rugby? 00:19:34 - How do you get into powerlifting? 00:22:03 - Did powerlifting help with carrying such a heavy pack for winter backpacking? 00:23:17 - Can you give us the full spiel about the Ice Age Trail and what you just accomplished? 00:24:37 - You're the first woman and second person ever to winter thru-hike the Ice Age Trail, correct? Does that speak to the difficulty of the feat or the difficulty of being out in that cold of weather? 00:25:39 - What's the terrain like on the Ice Age Trail? Also you finished in 69 days?! Nice. 00:27:04 - Was it difficult technically or more like rolling hills? 00:28:09 - Had you hiked much of the trail in summer? 00:28:48 - When did you have snow shoes on the trail? 00:29:42 - What was this Wisconsin winter like? How cold was it? 00:31:17 - Did your dog sleep with you in your sleeping bag? 00:32:14 - What's a musher? 00:33:30 - So the kennel just let you borrow a dog for the winter? 00:34:59 - How did Diggins respond to thru-hiking in winter? 00:36:36 - So Diggins was melting the snow underneath her as she slept? 00:36:59 - Was Diggins pulling her gear or your gear? 00:37:59 - Diggins was on leash in all your photos, can you talk about that? 00:39:39 - Do you think Diggins stayed near you because she began to trust you? 00:40:00 - What was it like giving Diggins back to her family? 00:41:00 - Does Diggins live close enough to visit? 00:41:38 - What kind of challenges were there with bringing a dog? 00:43:19 - Did Diggins get town food too? 00:43:33 - Did you get to go to any fish fries? 00:44:07 - What was your lodging situation while on trail? 00:45:16 - So you have friends all throughout Wisconsin? 00:46:24 - What is it like when you get to town? How do you pick which door you are going to knock on? 00:47:53 - How many times did you cold knock on people's doors? 00:48:31 - Were people familiar with the Ice Age Trail? 00:49:05 - Are these people who let you sleep in their yard interacting with you at all? 00:49:22 - At what point did you start to get fan fare? 00:51:29 - Do you have any dream sponsors? 00:52:30 - Can you talk about your gear? 00:55:00 - How did your sleeping bag pack? 00:58:14 - What were you wearing while you were hiking? 00:59:46 - Did you have down or synthetic gear? 01:01:18 - Do you have leftover issues from frostbite on your butt? 01:02:08 - Would snow pants have been too hot? 01:04:19 - Were your shoes waterproof? 01:04:54 - Did you have gaiters? 01:06:04 - Did you keep hand warmers in bags to keep them working? 01:06:32 - What kind of eyewear did you have? 01:06:55 - Did you use trekking poles? 01:11:25 - Can you speak to being a black, LGBTQIA+ hiker? 01:13:42 - Have people messaged you that they are inspired by your journey? 01:14:44 - What's next for you? 01:15:25 - Have you been in touch with Renee Patrick at all? 01:17:06 -

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Cindy Ross. Cindy is a bonafide renaissance woman. She's published nine books, with two more on the way, she's a triple crowner, illustrator, and avid traveler. But, the bulk of our conversation today centers around Cindy's novel approach to raising children. In a nutshell, Cindy and her husband believe that kids should fold into your lifestyle, and not the other way around, as evidenced by their family of four taking on the CDT in section hikes beginning when their kids were just toddlers. Cindy schools us on experiential education, the trick to successful homeschooling, and why you shouldn't let kids get in the way of your adventurous pursuits. Whether you have kids, are planning on it in the future, or not, I am confident you will enjoy our conversation. We also do the triple crown of sauces, unveil 2020's naughty and nice lists, and hop in our time machines and prevent the development of two movies. Zpacks discount code: Use code: BPRPLEX for $25 off any plex tent at zpacks.com. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Backpacker Radio Book Bundle Thru-Hiking Coaching with Zach and Chaunce How to Save Money for a Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro discount code: Use code: IPOOPED for 15% off. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Cindy Ross Cindy's website [divider] 00:03:36 - QOTD: What is the best book you've read in 2020? 00:09:52 - Cindy Ross, will you tell us about your background? 00:13:58 - So you were a trail angel to your husband? 00:14:21 - How did you keep in touch with your husband? Did you have an initial romantic interest? 00:16:43 - Do you think getting the same injury is a symbol of romance? 00:17:13 - What years did you hike the AT? 00:17:25 - What did the AT look like in the '70s compared to now? 00:17:54 - How many people were you seeing on the AT? 00:18:06 - Was the trail as maintained as it is now? 00:18:33 - You did the AT in two halves? Where did you start each time? 00:18:56 - What was the typical demographic on the AT at the time? 00:19:16 - What was the hostel culture like? 00:19:43 - What were resupplies like? 00:20:23 - So you hiked the AT with a friend? 00:21:03 - Were there trail logs when you hiked the AT? 00:21:14 - Do you still have your gear? 00:22:05 - Your book is also a sketchbook right? 00:22:17 - What does your process look like? 00:22:37 - Did you make your own shelter? 00:22:44 - How did you know what to make? 00:23:44 - Did anyone want to buy the gear you made? 00:24:17 - What inspired you to continue the AT in '89? 00:24:44 - Did you end up liking the second leg more? 00:25:42 - Is there anything else you want to say about the AT? What differences do you notice between the AT in the late '70s and today? 00:27:10 - Do you think the ATC should institute a permit system? 00:28:34 - When was your PCT hike? 00:28:38 - What was the PCT like in '82 and '84? 00:28:58 - Who was "we" on the PCT? 00:29:50 - Did you find people in the desert section of the PCT? 00:30:15 - Was the trail well marked at the time? Did you get lost? 00:30:58 - Through the desert, what were your longest water carries? 00:31:34 - Did you know what you were signing up for when you started the PCT? 00:31:54 - Did you dislike snow travel before the PCT? 00:33:29 - Were you carrying any devices to help you? 00:33:43 - Did you have anything like an InReach? 00:34:00 - What was it like to hitch in the '80s? Did people know what you were talking about when you said you were hiking the PCT? 00:34:54 - What did you tell people when you are hitching? 00:36:37 - How much do llamas cost? 00:37:41 - What are the advantages of llamas over horses? 00:38:21 - What's the maximum weight you can put on a llama? Specifically in terms of a kid? 00:39:14 - Did you know anything about llamas previously? 00:40:12 - Did you just borrow the llamas for the duration of the trail? 00:40:50 - How do you maintain a llama? 00:41:38 - How long do llamas usually live? 00:41:49 - Do you have any llama facts? 00:42:43 - Do you grow attached to llamas like you would a dog? 00:44:20 - When the llamas are walking do they have reins? How does that work? 00:45:40 - Do you just tie the llamas to a tree when they get to camp? 00:45:53 - Were there any first aid considerations for llamas? 00:46:43 - Did you ever have to worry about mountain lions? 00:48:37 - Do you still have llamas today? 00:48:52 - Are llamas lonely if they only have one? 00:49:12 - Can your goats carry gear? 00:49:30 - So the goats are just for companionship? 00:49:42 - How far can goats go? 00:50:10 - Can you tell us about the logistics of hiking with kids? How old were your kids on the CDT? 00:50:56 - Are there kid seats for the llamas? 00:51:29 - Did you have any hesitations about bringing your kids? 00:52:00 - Was sleeping with young kids an issue on the trail? 00:55:00 - How would the kids describe their experience? 00:55:37 -

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by Dr. Kristina Kiefer (that's back to back doctor episodes for those keeping score at home). Dr. Kiefer is a veterinarian with a PhD in Veterinary Regenerative Medicine from the University of Minnesota. But, of greater interest to you, not only does Dr. Kiefer have the medical expertise to advise about hiking with your dog, but she also walks the walk, having done significant miles on trail with her own pup. Although we've broached the hiking with your dog subject on previous podcasts, Dr. Kiefer offers us concrete advice rooted in science. And seeing as both of your Backpacker Radio co-hosts are dog obsessed, we cover A LOT of ground in this interview ranging from how much weight a dog should carry, to what ages are appropriate for dogs to go on long distance hikes, to which breeds are best for backpacking, and more. If you hike with your dog, are planning to one day hike with a dog, or just want some juicy #dogfacts, you will enjoy this conversation. We introduce a new segment, Dad Stuff, answer some burning listener questions, and chat about winter thru-hiking the AT. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: POOPSTORY for 15% off your purchase at gossamergear.com. Zpacks discount code: Use code: BPRPLEX for $25 off any plex tent at zpacks.com. [divider] Backpacker Radio Book Bundle Thru-Hiking Coaching with Zach and Chaunce How to Save Money for a Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro discount code: Use code: IPOOPED for 15% off. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Dr.Kristina Kiefer @kristinakiefer @barefootprofessordvm www.vetssmart.com [divider] QOTD: What is something in your car's center console that you derive too much joy from? 00:07:00 - How did you get into veterinary school and when did you know that animals, specifically dogs, were a passion of yours? 00:08:06 - How competitive is vet school? 00:08:48 - Is vet school cutthroat like law school? 00:11:03 - What is the most common procedure that you do? 00:11:38 - Are there dogs that are more likely to tear their ACL's? 00:11:55 - Which breed is at the vet most often? 00:12:30 - What goes wrong with the dogs with smushed faces? 00:13:18 - Is it true that mutts are generally the healthiest? 00:14:47 - Where do Australian shepherds fall on the scale of health? 00:15:47 - Is there an inbreeding component to overbreeding? 00:16:52 - If you had to design the perfect trail dog, what would you pick? 00:17:49 - How do you feel about those dog genetic test kits? 00:19:04 - What are some of the key considerations people should take before bringing their dog on a thru-hike? 00:21:03 - What signs would you look for in a dog that isn't having a good time? What cues can you look for that your dog isn't doing well on a hike? 00:23:21 - Is it true that you shouldn't put more than 10% of a dog's weight in their pack? 00:24:44 - Do you have a recommendation for adjusting how much you are feeding your dog? 00:25:50 - What supplements were you giving your dog? 00:27:04 - Do you use the same food on the trail as you do at home? 00:27:47 - How big is your dog? 00:29:54 - Is there one ideal brand you would recommend? 00:30:54 - What do you feed your dog? 00:31:40 - Are there any specific ingredients you should look out for that will help or hurt? 00:34:19 - Is CBD good for dogs? 00:36:09 - Is CBD something you would consider giving your dog? 00:36:32 - Would you use CBD for anxiety for dogs? 00:37:44 - Does Harper's nose turn pink because of allergies? 00:38:37 - Do you put sunscreen on dogs? 00:39:15 - If someone was walking with a light-skinned dog is that sunscreen something they should consider? 00:41:21 - What should someone consider before taking their dog on the PCT? 00:43:59 - Would you get your dog rattlesnake trained? 00:48:08 - Do you get special booties for your dog? 00:50:41 - How do you know when to put booties on your dog? 00:53:05 - What is Musher's Secret? 00:53:24 - Would you put it on without the booties? 00:54:00 - Did you put anything on your dog's paws overnight? 00:54:30 - How did you keep your dog from licking off the salve? 00:55:07 - Would you recommend someone go to the groomer throughout a thru-hike? 00:57:31 - Do all dogs need booties? And in what conditions do dogs need them? 00:58:45 - Can you do the run-through of the backpacking you've done with your dog? 00:59:47 - What age should dogs start backpacking? 01:02:44 - What signs should people look for that their dog might be too old for hiking or backpacking? 01:04:38 - Are there clear cut signs that a dog is having a terrible time on a hike? 01:08:07 - Would you recommend certain commands for people to learn before taking their dog on trail? 01:11:44 - Do you have tips for someone trying to train their dog for trail commands? And how do you feel with positive reinforcement being the only thing you use to train your dog? 01:13:09 - How do you train a dog (Harper) to go to your side or behind? 01:16:39 - Is there

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

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

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Nathan Hankes. Nathan is an army veteran, having served a tour in Iraq as a drone operator for the United States Army in the aftermath of 9/11. Upon returning from his tour, Nathan turned to the Appalachian Trail to sort out the residual anger and anxiety he was dealing with as a result of his time serving overseas. We go deep on Nathan's experience in Iraq, how that affected his political outlook, how the Appalachian Trail helped him heal after his tour, and learn more about the process of his writing, "Waking Up On the Appalachian Trail: A Story of War, Brotherhood, and the Pursuit of Truth", a memoir about his hike. We have a triple crown of tips to lighten your pack, a one minute gear review (including some gear for the pups), and tackle some hard hitting listener questions. [divider] Listen Download this episode. [divider] Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Minus33 discount code (listen to episode to get the code): 15% off your first purchase at minus33.com. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Nathan Hankes Get a signed copy of Nathan book: Waking Up on the Appalachian Trail: A Story of War, Brotherhood and the Pursuit of Truth on his website. Use code: BPR for free shipping (so he can compete with Jeff Bezos). Half of the proceeds from the book go to helping four combat veterans write a book. Find him on social media @nbhankes 00:04:30 - QOTD: How has the trail healed you? 00:08:00 - Trail Correspondents will happen again next year! 00:08:40 - Intro to Nathan Hankes 00:08:56 - Can you give us a quick bio of yourself? 00:09:55 - Where in the midwest are you from? 00:10:32 - What was your interest in the military? 00:11:44 - What do you attribute the naivety you had (re: joining the military) to? 00:12:39 - How old were you when you joined the military? 00:13:47 - What is the ASVAB? 00:14:49 - How big are military drones? 00:15:47 - Which branch of the military did you serve in? 00:15:59 - What were you expecting when you were deployed and what was the reality of the situation? 00:18:12 - What happens if you change your mind while you are in the army? 00:19:53 - Was the sense of dissent among your peers the overarching feeling or was it just a few people? And was that natural skepticism or reality? 00:21:50 - Did any of it feel like the movie Jarhead? 00:23:50 - Did you ever think about leaving? 00:24:37 - Did you think you would thru-hike before you were in Iraq? 00:26:04 - Did you have any near-death experiences? 00:27:56 - How are you supposed to respond when you hear a mortar attack? 00:28:49 - Did that experience alter how you felt the rest of the time you were in Iraq? 00:30:19 - What are the mortars hitting? 00:32:11 - Knowing that you were defending Iraqi civilians you still felt the U.S. presence was wrong? 00:32:55 - Can you ask about the real reason you are there or do you have to keep it to yourself? 00:34:10 - How do you feel about the military now? 00:35:20 - Has your service altered your politics? 00:36:17 - What did the person you hiked with bring up (as far as politics)? 00:37:17 - Which book on the top 100 adventure stories did you like the most? 00:41:41 - What kind of things did you have to get permission from the pentagon for? 00:44:03 - Did you self-publish? 00:44:15 - How did you get endorsements (from people like Christopher Ryan)? 00:45:37 - Would you describe what you experienced as PTSD? 00:46:50 - Were you having trouble sleeping? 00:47:22 - Were there any downsides to going from the military to the trail? Was it weird going from one extreme to the other? 00:49:53 - What is the specific healing you were looking for in your AT experience? 00:52:35 - Did your anger ever manifest in unhealthy ways? 00:53:34 - Did the fear you came back with filter over to the trail at all? 00:55:09 - Did you keep in close contact with your platoon mates? Do you still? 00:57:09 - Were you hoping to maintain that sense of community on trail? 00:58:51 - When you are deployed are people around your same age? Or is it people in all different age groups like the trail? 01:00:16 - Can you compare your platoon mates and your tramily? 01:02:35 - Can you talk about why you liked hiking with Dylan? 01:04:14 - Are you playing with fire if you ask about the merits of war with someone who has served? 01:06:07 - How did your brother interact with Dylan (knowing you came from a conservative family)? 01:07:29 - What do you think helped your enlightenment on your AT journey? 01:09:50 - Can you talk more about your spiritual awakening? 01:13:40 - Is thru-hiking a good tool for veterans? Do you have any general advice for veterans listening? 01:16:27 - How would someone describe the differences in your personality post-Iraq vs. post-trail? 01:20:29 - Can you tell us about the dog sled training in Alaska? 01:23:00 - Do you stand on the back

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

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

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

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

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dan Durston. Dan is the gear nerd's gear nerd. In addition to hiking the PCT and being one of only two people to yo-yo the Great Divide Trail (the other being his wife as they did it together), Dan is visionary behind the new gear company, Durston Gear. We go way deep down the rabbit hole on why polyester tents are making a comeback and are possibly the ultimate fabric for shelters, how he's able to execute on his philosophy of creating lightweight gear that's super easy to setup, how his being a loudmouth on the Backpackinglight forums made his gear company possible, and much more. If you're into gear technology, even if you're not, we bet you're really going to enjoy this conversation. Also, our buddy Legend breaks another FKT, we have another Reddit Brain Buster, and we have a point counter point on the virtues of summer vs. fall backpacking. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: PoopStory for 15% off your entire cart at gossamergear.com. "How to Afford a Thru-Hike" discount code: "ipooped" [divider] Interview with Dan Durston: Durstongear.com @Durstongear on Instagram Dan Durston Youtube Motorscooterguide.net 00:03:16 - QOTD: What's an "oh shit" moment where you've realized you've been doing something the wrong way for years? 00:07:18 - Intro to Dan Durston 00:07:26 - What is your backpacking resume? 00:09:54 - Do you have to push gear by setting FKTs? 00:10:32 - Do you own the gear company? Are you not the sole proprietor of Dan Durston Gear? 00:12:09 - Do you get a royalty of every product sold? 00:12:59 - Did you also hike the PCT with your wife? 00:13:24 - How did you get into backpacking? 00:14:40 - You were determined to get your pack weight down before your first trip? 00:14:56 - How light was your pack when you first started? 00:16:38 - Did seeing someone do a whole 50-mile trail in a day create the origin for you going ultralight? 00:17:47 - When did the shift to ultralight happen? Was Backpacking Light involved in that? 00:18:40 - What were your big 3 when you were at 5 pounds? 00:20:00 - Were you giving gear companies feedback when you were testing products? 00:21:25 - To become a gear tester do you just go on backpacking forums and be loud? 00:21:44 - What did you bring on the PCT? 00:22:24 - Had you started making your own gear already on the PCT? 00:23:33 - How did you get into making your own gear? 00:24:23 - What is the hardest thing to make yourself? Packs? 00:26:26 - Advice to someone who wants to get a cottage industry pack but is worried about fit? 00:27:42 - Is there any benefit to going to REI and measuring packs there? 00:28:22 - What is the process with your designs going to manufacturing? 00:30:40 - Are you the only one doing product testing on Dan Durston Gear? 00:32:15 - Who is Dan Durston Gear for? Who is the target market? 00:36:49 - What makes setting up your tents so simple? 00:37:39 - Do you have any photos of your disaster feet? 00:39:01 - How tall are you? 00:49:36 - How did drop.com find you? 00:50:29 - What do you mean by 'being a loudmouth on backpacking light'? 00:51:24 - Have you solved the condensation issue that most ultralight tents have? 00:52:43 - So should you not ventilate your tent when sleeping in humid areas? 00:55:14 - What are your recommendations for campsite selection to avoid condensation? 00:57:03 - Talk about polyester tents! 00:58:00 - What's the weight difference between polyester and nylon? 00:59:48 - So what is the strongest fabric? 01:02:30 - Does the fabric make the tent more prone to smell or mildew? 01:03:35 - How long should you leave your tent out to dry? 01:04:31 - Is there a proper way to clean and store a tent? 01:05:30 - How often should you replace tents? 01:07:00 - How do you store your tent? Stuff or fold and roll? 01:10:51 - Who is the X-mid made for? 01:13:18 - If Dan Duston Gear didn't exist and you had one tent you had to use for all purposes, what would you pick? 01:14:13 - Will there ever be a DCF X-Mid? 01:16:58 - Would you consider Dan Durston Gear to be ultralight? 01:17:27 - Do you think there is a lot of room for improvement in the cottage industry UL gear space? 01:19:15 - If you could name the Dan Durston backpack what would you name it? 01:19:43 - Will you talk us through the pack? 01:21:43 - Can you get a 40 oz beer in the pocket? 01:22:28 - What is the mesh material on the shoulder strap? 01:24:19 - What is the advantage of X-Pac? 01:29:09 - What are some other pack companies that use X-Pac? 01:31:25 - What is the weight on the Dan Durston pack and what does it go for? 01:33:31 - What was it that took your company to the next level? 01:35:30 - What would Dan Durston's gear slogan be? 01:36:44 - Can you talk about the Great Divide Trail? 01:39:33 - Where does the GDT start and end and where does it go through? 01:42:06 - What is the seasonality for the GDT? 01:42:51 - What kind of miles can you do on snowshoes? 01:43:28 - Can you tell us

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Tommy Corey, aka Twerk, sometimes known as Twerkinthedirt, sometimes known as the guy behind Hiker Trash Vogue. Twerk gives us a runthrough on his experiences backpacking the PCT, how the Hiker Trash Vogue project came to be, what doors this wildly popular photo project has opened for him. We also talk about his experiences of what it's like to be a gay man in the thru-hiking community. We close out the show with a Triple Crown of Autumn Ahhhhs, talk about how much it costs to pee on Chaunce's face every morning for the rest of her life, a one minute gear review, and we try to determine how much money Chaunce can make by selling foot photos. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: PoopStory for 15% off your entire cart at gossamergear.com. Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Greenbelly discount code: Use code: Trek2020 for 10% off your first purchase at greenbelly.co How To Afford A Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro (use code "ipooped" to save $2!) [divider] 00:04:43 - Chaunce is back! 00:06:19 - QOTD: Non-traditional ways to track your mileage? 00:10:49 - Intro to Twerk! 00:11:01 - How did you get the trail name Twerk? 00:12:32 - How did you first get into backpacking? 00:14:19 - Did Chaunce and Twerk cross paths? 00:15:30 - Twerk's first backpacking trip through the Three Sisters Loop 00:16:05 - Did that trip build excitement or anxiety for your attempted thru? 00:17:39 - Do you think the fact that being close to where you grew up made it easier to get off trail the first time? 00:20:10 - Did you want to rejoin your friends on trail? 00:21:04 - Did you experience the same level of hardship in 2018 as 2017? 00:26:10 - Would you do the PCT again? 00:30:00 - Zach shares a poop story! 00:31:34 - Twerk's poop story! 00:34:30 - Can you tell us about your photography background? 00:36:24 - How did photography play into your 2017 hike? 00:37:28 - Do you think learning how to long-distance hike in 2017 helped you be able to work on Hiker Trash Vogue in 2018? 00:40:30 - How did you edit your photos on trail? 00:41:03 - What is Hiker Trash Vogue? 00:41:50 - Will you walk us through some of your favorite photos? 00:43:06 - Can you tell us some stories behind your photos? 00:45:47 - Do you have experience shooting high fashion/editorial photography? 00:47:01 - Was it difficult to get people to model? 00:49:04 - What is your pitch to get people to pose for Hiker Trash Vogue? 00:52"02 - Did you do any landscape photography along the way? 00:54:20 - How did you decide to evolve Hiker Trash Vogue? Can you talk about the books? 00:56:18 - Did you make your layouts in InDesign? 00:57:22 - How much does it cost to make a Hiker Trash Vogue book? 00:59:23 - Did the quality of the second book suffer because it was less of a passion project? 01:01:14 - Do you have limited runs of your books? 01:01:39 - Would you ever put your book on Amazon? 01:02:47 - What is your day-to-day like now? 01:03:45 - Have you gotten freelance work from your Hiker Trash Vogue series? 01:04:42 - Do people hit you up to do weddings? 01:05:39 - Is being a wedding photographer a coveted job or highly stressful? 01:07:17 - Where should people go if they want Twerk to shoot their wedding? 01:08:34 - Can you speak to what it's like being a gay hiker? 01:10:23 - Was there anything in the Gummy Bear episode that you could elaborate on? Or things you want to expand on? 01:11:37 - Were you at all concerned about it leading up to your hike? 01:12:51 - What were relationships like on trail? 01:15:42 - Did you see many other LGBTQ hikers? 01:18:10 - Why Representation Matters 01:19:03 - Were there resources you used as a gay man before hiking that you think would help others? 01:26:12 - Any recommendations for diversifying your feed? @switchbackshawty @lassosafroworld @rongriswell 01:27:44 - What is your Instagram? @twerkinthedirt 01:27:56 - What's coming up? What are you looking forward to? 01:31:16 - Anything you wanna plug? Tommycorey.com @twerkinthedirt How To Afford A Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro (use code "ipooped" to save $2!) The Triple Crown of Autumn Ahhhs Zach is having a baby (and rapid-fire questions from Chaunce)! Reddit Brain Busters 1 minute gear review: Chaunce: $5 Walmart Floaty Zach: Yeti Tundra Haul Mail Bag Five-Star Reviews Comment ______ to win a Backpacker Radio sticker! [divider] Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Paul Packman Sealy, Jason Lawrence, Janelle L., Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook

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