Backpacker Radio

From the Appalachian Trail to the Pacific Crest and everything in between. Backpacker Radio is a show all about the wonderful world that is thru-hiking and long distance backpacking. Co-hosts, Zach "Badger" Davis and Juliana "Chaunce" Chauncey muse on the backpacking life and the latest from the trail every other week. Topics include but are not limited to news, trail culture, interviews, gear, advice, and all you can eat buffets.

Jeff Oliver aka IBTAT on Sober Triple Crowning, The Scottish National Trail, and Kungsleden Trail (BPR #323) 09/15/2025

Jeff Oliver aka IBTAT on Sober Triple Crowning, The Scottish National Trail, and Kungsleden Trail (BPR #323) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek brought to you by LMNT, we’re joined by Jeff Oliver, better known on trail and online as IBTAT. In addition to building a large following on YouTube and Instagram, IBTAT will be a familiar voice to long-time Backpacker Radio listeners, as he was part of our first season of Trail Correspondents. We dive into IBTAT’s story, including his journey to 12 years of sobriety — going from drinking two fifths of liquor a day to cutting alcohol cold turkey overnight, and the dangerous side effects that followed. We also cover his more than 11,000 miles of trekking over the past seven years, including hikes of the Triple Crown trails, the Scottish National Trail, the C&O Canal Towpath, and Sweden’s Kungsleden Trail. Lastly, being a talented photographer and videographer, IBTAT shares expert advice on choosing the right camera and capturing quality photos and video during your hikes. Sassafras, Double Dip and I wrap the show with a call for this year’s AT thru-hikers to take the 2025 Appalachian Trail Survey, we opine on what the AT will look like in 2035 (and look back at how it’s changed over the past decade), we find the precise point at which a walk becomes a hike, Sass and Katie share how they got started in the Outdoor Industry (providing advice and inspiration for those who want to follow in their tracks), and we do the Triple Crown of cooking tips and hacks. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at .Gossamer Gear: Use code "LT520" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . [divider] Interview with Jeff “IBTAT” Oliver Time stamps & Questions 00:06:00 - Reminders: , take the 2025 AT Thru-Hiker survey, and ! 00:08:05 - Introducing IBTAT 00:11:15 - When did you start partying? 00:12:25 - Discussion about getting sober 00:16:35 - What was your outdoors experience prior to the AT? 00:19:15 - When did you start videography and photography? 00:22:15 - Are there differences in your audience across different mediums? 00:25:00 - At what point did thru-hiking click for you? 00:27:18 - How did you take to the AT community? 00:29:09 - How was hiking the AT with your dog? 00:31:32 - Any standout stories from the AT? 00:33:16 - When did you decide to get on the PCT? 00:34:51 - What’s the most common dinner you eat on trail? 00:36:55 How was the PCT in a high snow year? 00:46:45 - Have you seen a culture change on the PCT? 00:49:05 - Tell us about the Art Loeb Trail 00:51:35 - What was your experience on the CDT? 00:55:05 - What was the most emotional moment you’ve captured on video on trail? 00:57:35 - How has your videography style changed over time? 00:59:25 - Tell us more about the crowds you’ve seen on the PCT this year 01:00:35 - Tell us about the Scottish National Trail 01:04:17 - What’s been your favorite trail to photograph versus hike? 01:07:35 - Walk us through camera lenses for new photographers 01:12:35 - What’s in your photography kit? 01:15:25 - Tell us about the C&O Canal Towpath 01:16:52 - Tell us about the Kungsleden Trail 01:21:31 - What’s the next international trail on your bucket list? 01:22:22 - How do you like repeating the PCT? 01:23:38 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson by Steve Hoekwater QOTD: When does a walk become a hike? Advice Thing of the Week Triple Crown of cooking tips / hacks Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Go Bills, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/38217825

Liz "Handstand" Kidder: Scary Moments in the Sierra, Skydiving Near Miss, and Donating a Kidney (BPR #322) 09/08/2025

Liz "Handstand" Kidder: Scary Moments in the Sierra, Skydiving Near Miss, and Donating a Kidney (BPR #322) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by social media and YouTube sensation, Liz “Handstand” Kidder. Liz is a thru-hiker, vlogger, dreadlock artist, former skydiving fanatic, and a handstand-expert. Liz gives us her full story, including the events that lead to her becoming sober in 2014, how she nearly died in a horrifying skydive gone wrong, how the internet got way too much into her biz almost immediately into her thru-hiking journey, the time she donated a kidney, and we make her choose which trail reigns supreme between the AT and PCT- for which she does not hesitate to pick a winner. We wrap the show with why you shouldn't wear underwear on a thru-hike, a call for 2026 Blogger applications, which is better- hiking steep and short and long and steady, I offer a REPEAT stupid thing of the week, and we do the triple crown of things we'd step in barefoot. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKFALL15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "LT520" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at . [divider] Interview with Liz “Handstand” Kidder Time stamps & Questions 00:05:15 - Reminders: , and ! 00:08:40 - Introducing Liz 00:12:50 - Where’s the most epic place you’ve done a handstand? 00:15:10 - Do you have tips for someone who wants to get better at handstands? 00:17:10 - What was your introduction to the world of backpacking? 00:21:05 - What is the New Hampshire uniform? 00:22:00 - Tell us about skydiving 00:31:00 - How as the first week on trail? 00:32:40 - Had you done any social media prior to the AT? 00:34:50 - What was the drama? 00:36:35 - At what point were you hooked by the AT? 00:38:24 - Why did you end the AT in a more sour mindset than the JMT? 00:39:40 - How did the trail change you? 00:43:24 - Tell us about donating your kidney 00:52:10 - Tell us about your career 00:55:35 - How do you create dread locs? 00:57:20 - Do you get a lot of business through hiking? 01:00:10 - Tell us about the Annapurna Circuit 01:04:35 - How did the Annapurna Circuit compare to your other hikes? 01:06:45 - Tell us about the Colorado Trail 01:07:45 - How has the PCT experience compared to the Colorado Trail? 01:12:00 - Tell us about the scary moments in the Sierra 01:22:24 - Tell us about the Tehachapi challenge 01:30:20 - Tell us about spraining your ankle 01:38:30 - How did you feel about going home during trail? 01:40:51 - Are you still on a continuous footpath? 01:45:00 - Did you capture either of the sprains on camera? 01:47:45 - Do you like the PCT or the AT first? 01:50:11 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda by Anniversary and the Historian by Kelly Floro QOTD: Would you rather hike 2 miles uphill with no switchbacks, steep grade, or 5 miles uphill with switchbacks, moderate grade? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of things you’d step on/in barefoot Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Go Bills, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/38110225

Dan Durston 2.0: Durston Gear's Cult Following, Gear Innovations, and Design Philosophy (BPR #321) 09/01/2025

Dan Durston 2.0: Durston Gear's Cult Following, Gear Innovations, and Design Philosophy (BPR #321) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined once again by Dan Durston. Dan is the man behind Durston Gear, a backpacking gear brand that has exploded in popularity amongst long-distance backpackers over the last handful of years. Dan gives us the rundown on how his business and life have changed since he was last on the show, when another company was exclusively selling his designs via a third-party manufacturer, including taking a second mortgage out on his house, quitting his job as a biologist, and going all in on slinging packs, tents, and poles to his loyal cult-like following. Dan shares some insights on why he thinks he’s developed such a loyal following amongst this community, the struggle of trying to strike a healthy work/life balance, and the challenge of balancing scaling his company while maintaining the hands-on customer service experience his customers have come to expect. Chaunce and I unveil a new segment with Dan- Piranha Pool- where we pitch some of burning backpacking innovations and Dan is forced to invest in either of our ideas on the spot. Sassafras and I wrap the show with the best section hikes on the PCT, we break down our weekend at Cascade Locks for PCT Trail Days, the triple crown of jobs we definitely couldn't do, Sass previews a Trek blog post that angered a lot of the Internet (and why she loved it and agreed with it) and a listener gives us some very important grocery store history. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "LT520" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . [divider] Interview with Dan Durston Time stamps & Questions 00:05:55 - Recap of PCT Days 00:24:20 - Reminders: , and ! 00:25:15 - Introducing Dan 00:27:30 - Tell us about your evolution since 2020 00:32:30 - How do you get past fear and decide to take big risks? 00:35:43 - How did the first day of orders go? 00:41:20 - When did you know that you had to quit your full time office job? 00:42:45 - What is it about customer service that’s so important to you? 00:49:20 - Why do you think you’ve developed such a cult following? 00:53:50 - How do you balance your following with scaling bigger? 00:56:05 - Are you concerned about burnout? 01:01:00 - What are your sleeping bag thoughts? 01:04:50 - How are your products innovative compared to the competition? 01:15:25 - Can you say something nice about Gossamer Gear? 01:17:00 - Pitch us on ultralight trekking poles 01:22:00 - What would you consider to be a standard lifespan of a trekking pole? 01:24:45 - What’s the dumbest way you’ve ever broken a piece of gear? 01:28:20 - Piranha Pool: If you had a million dollars to invest in Zach & Chaunce’s gear ideas, how would you divvy up the money? 01:42:17 - What are the main differences between your backpack and the competition? 01:50:15 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the world of backpacking or the outdoors at large? 01:53:40 - How do you feel when you see people’s terrible tent pitches? 01:54:38 - How will you maintain customer service as your company grows? 01:55:45 - Do you feel like there’s some flattering imitation of your gear happening? 01:58:22 - What’s been your favorite part of the interview you’re currently in? Segments Trek Propaganda by Kelsey Nannini by To-Go QOTD: Pick 2 for sleep: perfect pillow, perfect air temp, perfect mattress Triple Crown of jobs you couldn’t do Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Go Bills, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/38047155

The Wonderland Trail with Sassafras: Permits, Campsites, and Gear (BPR #320) 08/25/2025

The Wonderland Trail with Sassafras: Permits, Campsites, and Gear (BPR #320) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are chatting all things Wonderland Trail. The Trek’s very own Jess Stone is fresh off her thru-hike of this near-100 mile lap around Mt. Rainier in Washington, and gives us a detailed breakdown of her journey and the trail at large. We cover the ideal number of days to do this hike, the standout campsites, wildlife, the permitting process, and the best games to play on trail with your hiking buddies to pass the time such as eating rocks. We wrap the show with a couple of new opportunities to get involved with The Trek, why Nova Scotia has banned all hiking for the foreseeable future, ranking a series of different hiking conditions (or- why postholing is the worst), the triple crown of gear deal breakers, we get even more input on the very controversial decision to use dry ice for resupplies, and a listener reminds us that not all owl encounters are all that interesting. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKFALL15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "LT520" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 35% off sunglasses at . Betterment: Learn more at . [divider] Panel with Jess Stone Time stamps & Questions 00:04:50 - Reminders: , or and ! 00:11:23 - Introducing Jess 00:13:45 - Where is the Wonderland Trail? 00:14:15 - What is the permit system like? 00:18:10 - What is the distance and are there alternates? 00:22:20 - Did you bring a bear canister? 00:23:20 - Where did you start and what direction did you go? 00:25:35 - How did this trail compare to some of your past thru-hikes? 00:29:10 - Tell us about the wildlife 00:34:45 - How do the resupplies work? 00:36:45 - Tell us about making your own food 00:40:04 - What were the best campsites? 00:43:00 - Tell us about your hike chronologically 00:47:27 - What was your hiking group? 00:51:50 - Day 3 of the hike 00:59:00 - Did you encounter rangers? 01:02:30 - Eagles Roost to Golden Lakes 01:05:50 - Golden Lakes and afterward 01:09:50 - High Low Buffalo 01:12:15 - What gear stood out to you? 01:17:50 - What footwear did you use? 01:20:40 - How was the weather and water situation? 01:23:22 - How did you get to the trail? 01:26:10 - How was the experience overall? 01:27:12 - Wonderland Trail or the best 93 miles of the Long Trail? 01:29:00 - Peak Performance Question: What’s your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Chickpea QOTD: How many miles would each of the following have to be for them all to feel equal? Thing of the Week Triple Crown of gear deal breakers Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Go Bills, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, The Saint Louis Shaman, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, Salt Stain, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37941265

Top National Park After Dark Stories: Night of the Grizzlies, Grandma Gatewood, and Cocaine Bear (BPR #319) 08/18/2025

Top National Park After Dark Stories: Night of the Grizzlies, Grandma Gatewood, and Cocaine Bear (BPR #319) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Danielle and Cassie, the hosts of the popular podcast, National Park After Dark. In this episode, Chaunce gets the lowdown on some of the most outrageous stories from the our beloved national parks, including the infamous cocaine bear, tuberculosis huts in Mammoth Cave National Park, the tragic tale of Ishi, the last Yahi, who emerged from Lassen Park in the early 19th century, and the night there were two separate fatal grizzly attacks in Glacier National Park. We wrap the show with an opportunity to get paid to thru-hike (and consequently why you should be on The Trek's newsletter), cheap items that double as ultralight backpacking gear, my mediocre marriage advice, the triple crown of outdoor fears, and another listener offers a PSA on why you should probably not use dry ice for your resupply. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "LT520" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . Betterment: Learn more at . [divider] Interview with Danielle and Cassie of National Park After Dark Time stamps & Questions 00:04:45 - Reminders: and ! 00:09:40 - Introducing Danielle and Cassie 00:10:24 - What trip are you on right now? 00:11:50 - How did you two meet? 00:13:35 - How did you develop your podcast? 00:15:50 - What is it that makes your podcast so popular? 00:17:45 - Have you two visited a lot of the national parks? 00:23:50 - How often are you two out hiking together and what are your favorite trails? 00:29:45 - What are your favorite solo hikes? 00:32:30 - What is your podcasting research process like? 00:36:50 - Tell us about the Night of the Grizzlies at Glacier National Park 00:43:55 - Do you ever get in touch with people involved in the cases? 00:52:40 - Tell us about the mysteries of Mammoth Cave 01:01:36 - Tell us about Ishi, the Last of His People 01:06:50 - Tell us about Crater Lake National Park 01:15:30 - Tell us about Dope Lake in Yosemite 01:17:30 - Tell us about Cocaine Bear 01:27:20 - Tell us about Grandma Gatewood 01:33:20 - Discussion about the National Park After Dark podcast 01:34:45 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the world of backpacking or the outdoors in general? Segments Trek Propaganda By the Editors by Katie Jackson QOTD: What’s your most unhinged marriage hack? Triple Crown of outdoor fears Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37854565

Quitting a Thru-Hike, Living Nomadically, and Working as a Chef with Juliette "Scorpion Queen" Kerven (BPR #318) 08/11/2025

Quitting a Thru-Hike, Living Nomadically, and Working as a Chef with Juliette "Scorpion Queen" Kerven (BPR #318) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we’re joined by Juliette Kerven, known on trail as Scorpion Queen. Juliette is a Michelin-trained chef, former yacht crew member, full-time nomad, and a thru-hiker of both the PCT and AT, and we caught her during her CDT thru-hike attempt for this conversation. This is a solo interview led by Chaunce, and it ventures into some uncharted emotional terrain for this podcast as Scorpion Queen openly wrestles with whether or not to continue her hike, and she ultimately comes to a decision during the interview. We also talk about what it’s like hiking in the U.S. as an international hiker (Juliette is from England), hear about her experience working on yachts, and learn how her Michelin-level culinary skills translate to the backcountry. All that and much more. We wrap the show with the most common injuries to AT thru-hikers, small things that make our days better, the triple crown of gingers (fictional characters edition), and the definitive guide to the sluttiest fonts. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKFALL15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "LT520" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 35% off sunglasses at . Betterment: Learn more at . Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at . [divider] Interview with Juliette “Scorpion Queen” Kerven Time stamps & Questions 00:04:56 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:10:30 - Introducing SQ 00:12:30 - How did you get your trail name? 00:15:05 - Why did you hate nature as a kid? 00:17:50 - When did you become fully nomadic? 00:21:07 - How did you decide to hike the PCT? 00:23:45 - What’s it like to work as a chef? 00:28:15 - What are your go-to dishes to make? 00:30:40 - When did you actually get on the PCT? 00:36:00 - Discussion about visas 00:37:30 - What are your crazy stories from working on super yachts? 00:39:00 - What grew your love for the PCT so much? 00:43:40 - What was your favorite trail town? 00:44:40 - What would you change about doing the PCT as an international hiker? 00:45:45 - What was your bad luck along the PCT? 00:52:30 - What’s your perfect shoe? 00:54:05 - How did being on the PCT affect your depression? 00:55:55 - Tell us about tearing your ACL 01:01:16 - Tell us about hiking the AT in 2024 01:03:50 - How did the AT impact your fibromyalgia? 01:06:35 - What was it like to start the AT so early? 01:09:50 - Discussion about SQ’s AT injury and bad luck 01:17:40 - We Love Love: Tell us about your AT romance 01:20:20 - What did you feel at the end of the AT? 01:23:20 - What did you do between the AT and CDT? 01:25:00 - What has your journey on the CDT been like so far? 01:47:20 - Why do you think you’ve decided to quit the CDT? 01:49:30 - Chaunce and SQ discuss quitting the CDT 02:02:25 - Why do you feel like a fraud if you quit? 02:07:00 - What would you do next if you quit? 02:15:50 - What scenario would make you want to keep hiking? 02:20:20 - Could you become less of a purist? 02:23:05 - What if you’re afraid to finish the CDT? 02:25:15 - Did you feel pressure to start the CDT too soon? 02:36:45 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: What’s something small that makes your day better? Sick Thing of the Week Triple Crown of Gingers (Round 2: Fictional Characters) Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Bill Jensen, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Clint Sitler, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Matt from Gilbert, AZ, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37758820

The Pinhoti Trail with Nathan "Switchback" Wright (BPR #317) 08/04/2025

The Pinhoti Trail with Nathan "Switchback" Wright (BPR #317) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Nathan Wright, known on trail as Switchback. Nathan is an ambassador for the Pinhoti Trail and Alabama trails more broadly, wearing almost too many hats to count. He is the co-founder of the Pinhoti Outdoor Center - a hostel he runs with his wife, President of the Alabama Hiking Trail Society, Vice President of the Alabama Pinhoti Trail Association, Chairman of the Board of the Pinhoti Experience Foundation, and serves on the Advisory Board of the Alabama Trails Commission. In this conversation, we go deep on everything to do with the Pinhoti Trail and Nathan’s many roles in supporting it. We cover the best time of year to hike it, what to expect in terms of wildlife, resupply, water, and logistics, as well as the standout physical features of the trail. Nathan also shares why the trail’s surrounding community makes it so special, the can’t-miss town stops and restaurants, and why he believes it’s the best off-season thru-hike in the US. We wrap the show with a FREE STUFF alert for 2025 PCT Thru-Hikers, how to get college credit for thru-hiking the AT, how our lives would be totally different if our first names were spelled differently, the triple crown of thru-hiker fads, a shortest day of the year of the week, and a listener shares some intel on Texas' most underrated trail. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "LT520" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . Betterment: Learn more at . [divider] Interview with Nathan Wright Time stamps & Questions 00:05:20 - Reminders: , or and ! 00:13:20 - Introducing Nathan 00:14:30 - Tell us about your hiking experience 00:15:00 - What made you fall in love with hiking in Alabama? 00:17:40 - Did you get involved with the trail first or hike it first? 00:19:30 - Tell us about finding out you were having a baby 00:21:44 - Discussion about section hiking the AT 00:23:45 - Tell us about all the organizations you’re involved with 00:25:15 - What are the basic stats of the Pinhoti Trail? 00:29:30 - What’s the best season to hike the Pinhoti? 00:30:25 - What’s the APTA? 00:33:40 - What’s the Pinhoti Experience Foundation? 00:36:00 - What’s the Alabama Trails Commission Advisory Board? 00:37:00 - What’s your tech company? 00:38:48 - How does your hostel work? 00:42:00 - Discussion about resupplies along the Pinhoti 00:44:14 - How much of the trail is on a road? 00:47:05 - What’s the process for creating a trail town? 00:51:40 - How does your business background interface with your trail work? 00:55:38 - What’s the water like on the Pinhoti? 00:58:40 - What’s the wildlife like? 01:01:10 - If we go on an Alabama road trip, which football game should we go to? 01:03:04 - When are the ticks bad? 01:04:00 - Could you bring your dog on the Pinhoti? 01:06:42 - Are there shelters on the Pinhoti? 01:08:43 - If you had to sell someone on the Pinhoti, what would you tell them? 01:10:30 - What’s some cool history related to the Pinhoti? 01:14:20 - What are some standout trail towns and town spots? 01:19:50 - What are the main characteristics of the trail? 01:22:24 - What is Alabama food culture? 01:23:15 - What are the logistics of getting to or from the trail? 01:26:50 - Tell us about Pinhoti Fest 01:29:00 - What do you see for the future of the Pinhoti? 01:36:03 - What are some lessons of running a hostel? 01:39:00 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the world of backpacking or the outdoors at large? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Jordan Charbonneau QOTD: Do you think your life would turn out different if your name was spelled slightly differently? Triple Crown of thru-hiker fads Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bill Jensen, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Minty Hikes Studio, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37662295

The Northern Colorado Trail with Kevin "Sunshine" Silvernale (BPR #316) 07/28/2025

The Northern Colorado Trail with Kevin "Sunshine" Silvernale (BPR #316) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Kevin “Sunshine” Silvernale. Originally a commercial pilot from Seattle, Kevin thru-hiked the PCT in 2016 and immediately fell in love with the Hiker Trash lifestyle. That passion led him to put his flying career on hold to hike the AT, Colorado Trail, much of the CDT, and most recently, to begin creating a brand-new long trail route, the Northern Colorado Trail. We chat about his life as a pilot, including when Chaunce coaxed him into sharing a story about how he joined the mile high club, and how thru-hiking ultimately pulled him away from aviation. We go deep into the Northern Colorado Trail (or the NoCo Trail as he calls it), a 300-mile route he’s developing, covering what goes into designing and rerouting a trail, working with public lands agencies, the best time of year to hike it, standout sections (including a hair-raising traverse of the Devil’s Causeway), the wildlife, its growing popularity, resupply and town stops, how to access both terminuses, what he envisions for the trail’s future- and much more. We wrap the show with the sad news of the drowning death of a 2025 Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, Chaunce talks in depth about how she’s pooing liquid, the triple crown of bodies of water, Chaunce’s car getting broken into of the week, how I voluntarily stepped into a patch of poison ivy, and the best listener email of all time. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKSPRING15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code "LT520" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 35% off sunglasses at . Betterment: Learn more at . [divider] Interview with Kevin “Sunshine” Silvernale Time stamps & Questions 00:05:16 - Reminders: , and ! 00:08:22 - Introducing Sunshine 00:09:30 - Tell us about being a commercial pilot 00:12:55 - Are you part of the mile high club? 00:14:08 - What are some quirks of pilot culture? 00:15:55 - What’s a go-to pilot movie? 00:18:05 - How accurate are flight simulators? 00:18:55 - What would you tell someone about the safety of flying? 00:25:36 - On average, how many hours per week would a commercial pilot fly? 00:26:40 - How did the PCT fall on your radar? 00:29:27 - Was there anything acutely dissatisfying about working as a pilot? 00:32:00 - What is a pilot lounge like? 00:33:30 - When you’re hiking, do you track planes you see overhead? 00:34:50 - Any standout moments from the PCT? 00:40:20 - What’d you do after the PCT? 00:41:25 - What was your impression of the AT after doing the PCT first? 00:43:55 - Were you able to enjoy the CDT given how isolated it is? 00:45:50 - When did the NoCo Trail idea come to you? 00:47:15 - Tell us the basics of the NoCo Trail 00:52:24 - How much of the trail is on roads? 00:54:30 - How do you get permission to hike across private land? 00:56:30 - How would you recommend section hiking the trail? 01:00:05 - What would a typical day of hiking look like? 01:01:27 - What are the highlights of the trail? 01:04:30 - How many people have hiked this trail? 01:07:00 - Did the route change as you thru-hiked it? 01:10:40 - Which alternate would you want to become the de facto trail? 01:11:50 - Are there 14ers along the way? 01:13:08 - What’s the water situation like along the trail? 01:16:42 - Would you recommend this as a first thru-hike? 01:18:10 - What’s the process of creating waypoints for navigation? 01:19:47 - What’s the camping situation like? 01:21:00 - How did you store your food? 01:22:30 - Which direction is best? 01:24:25 - Would you ever want this trail to connect to the Colorado Trail? 01:26:00 - How do you decide on a priority structure for continuing to develop the trail? 01:29:25 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: How many days until my bowels remember what a solid is? Car Getting Broken Into of the Week Triple Crown of bodies of water Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bill Jensen, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Minty Hikes Studio, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37537005

Impacts of Climate Change on the Colorado Trail with Triple Crowner and Scientist Karl Ford (BPR #315) 07/21/2025

Impacts of Climate Change on the Colorado Trail with Triple Crowner and Scientist Karl Ford (BPR #315) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Karl Ford. Karl is a retired environmental scientist, conservationist, and author of Triple Crown Hiking Adventures and The Colorado Trail in Crisis: A Naturalist's Field Report on Climate Change in Mountain Ecosystems. In this conversation, we dive into Karl’s experiences hiking the Triple Crown, his perspective on the current state of conservation and what the future may hold, and how climate change is already impacting our beloved long trails, with a special focus on the Colorado Trail. We also talk about what individuals can do to help combat climate change, and how Karl personally walks the walk when it comes to protecting our planet. We wrap the show with some convo on pre-hike anxiety, what the Hiker Trash four houses are, the triple crown of gingers, a blood boiling thing of the week, and a listener voicemail about UTIs. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . Betterment: Learn more at . [divider] Interview with Karl Ford by Karl Ford by Karl Ford Time stamps & Questions 00:05:20 - Reminders: , or , and ! 00:10:55 - Introducing Karl 00:11:34 - What’s your trail name? 00:13:04 - What’s your outdoors origin story? 00:23:45 - Do you have a standout story about Colorado Trail history? 00:26:45 - Where did the Ute tribe get sent to? 00:28:40 - Are there popular spots along the CT that retain Ute names? 00:29:38 - Where do you think we’re headed in regards to public lands? 00:33:55 - Do you remember a shift towards conservation when you were young? 00:40:50 - What got you into thru-hiking? 00:47:40 - Discussion about Karl’s tick experiment on the AT 00:49:50 - Have you followed the Lyme disease vaccines that are in development? 00:51:30 - Did you know you wanted to do more thru-hikes after the AT? 00:55:45 - What advice do you have for people who want to start thru-hiking in retirement? 01:00:30 - How do you prevent injury and recover well? 01:04:25 - Discussion about hiking the CT during the pandemic 01:08:20 - What is forest mortality? 01:09:03 - How are beetles related to climate change? 01:15:10 - What’s your level of optimism in slowing the effects of climate change? 01:20:52 - Do you have any optimism about technological solutions? 01:22:40 - Discussion about deforestation and reforestation 01:26:10 - What does the future of the CT look like? 01:30:00 - What are the downstream effects of a primarily lodgepole pine forest? 01:33:25 - Wilderness areas along the CT 01:34:20 - What can we do? 01:39:38 - Stay Salty Question: What is your hottest take in the world of backpacking or the outdoors at large? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Kelly Floro QOTD: When you’re a hiker what are the four houses you are sorted into? Triple Crown of gingers Blood Boiling Thing of the Week Listener Voicemail Mail Bag 4 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bill Jensen, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Minty Hikes Studio, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37474470

Fascinating Colorado Outdoor Recreation Stories with OutThere Colorado's Spencer McKee (BPR #314) 07/14/2025

Fascinating Colorado Outdoor Recreation Stories with OutThere Colorado's Spencer McKee (BPR #314) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Spencer McKee, the Director of Content and Operations for OutThere Colorado. If you’ve been to Colorado and have Instagram, you’ve likely already come across Spencer’s videos - he’s mastered the art of packaging interesting Colorado news stories, culture, and fun facts into short form video content through OutThere’s social media channels. Spencer shares some of his favorite standout outdoor rec stories from the great state of Colorado with us, including what's underneath Cheeseman Park, the legend of Rattlesnake Kate, Colorado's active volcano, the most underrated mountain towns, best hidden gem restaurants, breweries, and the truth behind his obsession with flannels. We wrap the show with a call for the next host, editor, and producer of Trail Correspondents, some severe damage sustained by a beloved Appalachian Trail hostel, why thru-hiking is your next career power move, and we're joined by Elise for the segments, including the triple crown of things that make our lives easier. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKSPRING15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 35% off sunglasses at . Betterment: Learn more at . Ka’Chava: Get 10% off at . [divider] Interview with Spencer McKee Time stamps & Questions 00:05:20 - Reminders: , or , and ! 00:09:07 - Introducing Spencer 00:12:06 - How’d you land in Colorado? 00:13:45 - What led you to OutThere? 00:16:50 - How do you reach Coloradans successfully? 00:17:25 - What’s up with the flannels? 00:18:50 - What did you do when you first joined OutThere? 00:22:10 - Do you like doing deeper dives or more new-style comments? 00:24:10 - What does your typical week look like now? 00:26:13 - Are you Colorado famous? 00:30:00 - What are some of the more outlandish stories you’ve covered? 00:33:29 - Tell us about Rattlesnake Kate 00:37:05 - Is there any competition between OutThere and other news outlets? 00:41:00 - What type of story frequently comes across your desk? 00:46:25 - What are some of your hidden gem restaurants in Colorado? 00:50:42 - Tell us about other fun festivals in Colorado 00:58:15 - True or False: There’s an active live volcano in Colorado 00:59:55 - Do you ever cover concerts for work? 01:07:40 - What’s up with the Denver airport? 01:15:05 - Are there any other good Colorado conspiracies? 01:19:00 - Discussion about the Big Thompson flood 01:20:40 - Does Colorado Springs deserve to be ranked as the 3rd best city in the country? 01:26:45 - What are the most underrated mountain towns? 01:28:26 - What Colorado animal are you most afraid of? 01:36:04 - Have you heard any wild cow stories? 01:43:50 - How have you not done all the 14ers yet? 01:48:25 - Rapid Fire Colorado Questions 02:05:00 - Discussion about OutThere feedback 02:07:30 - Back to Rapid Fire 02:21:00 - Discussion about animals, mainly racoons 02:23:20 - Rapid Fire Colorado Trivia 02:25:40 - Tell us about 02:28:25 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda by Katie Jackson by Chloe “Chickpea” Jacobs QOTD: What’s a common phrase you recently learned you were saying incorrectly? Wedding Dress Thing of the Week Triple Crown of things that we do to make our lives easier Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bill Jensen, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Minty Hikes Studio, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37355420

20,000+ Miles in under 10 Years, a Desert Hike from Tucson to San Diego, and Life as a Mariner with Leah "Twig" Harman (BPR #313) 07/07/2025

20,000+ Miles in under 10 Years, a Desert Hike from Tucson to San Diego, and Life as a Mariner with Leah "Twig" Harman (BPR #313) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Leah Harman, known on trail as Twig. Although Twig is relatively new to the world of thru-hiking, with less than 10 years of experience, she’s hit the ground running, accruing well over 20,000 miles in the process. In addition to all the usual suspects, triple crown trails, Colorado Trail, TA, Arizona Trail…Twig has also completed a number of lesser known trails, including the Mogollon Rim Trail, Bigfoot Trail, and a Desert Winter Thru-Hike from Tucson to San Diego. We of course learn all about these treks, why cows are the most dangerous animal on trail, and how she makes her perpetual hiker trash lifestyle work. Leah also recounts her past life living and working aboard ships, confirming that all the stereotypes about drunk and horny sailors are, in fact, hilariously accurate, complete with some entertaining hazing stories. We wrap the show with news of a group who trusted ChatGPT to plan their hike, and how that went terribly wrong, Chaunce details the stress associated with planning a wedding, and the triple crown of movie/tv shows that broke us. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Ombraz: Send a DM on or to for $30 off at . Betterment: Learn more at . [divider] Interview with Leah “Twig” Harman Time stamps & Questions 00:05:30 - Reminders: , , , reach out if you’ll be at Trail Days, and or ! 00:12:45 - Introducing Twig 00:15:30 - What’s your take on the current state of public lands? 00:20:46 - What should you do if you get charged by a burro or cow? 00:23:00 - Tell us about your career before backpacking 00:26:40 - What are your crazy stories from living on a boat? 00:35:30 - What was the wildest storm you encountered at sea? 00:43:20 - Story about rescuing another ship 00:44:45 - Tell us about working on fishing boats 00:45:34 - What’s the coolest marine animal? 00:47:00 - What marine animals would you steer clear of? 00:55:00 - How did you go from living on boats to living on trail? 00:57:30 - What are the biggest similarities and differences between living on a boat and trail? 01:03:30 - How’d you end up on the Trans Catalina Trail? 01:05:00 - Did your career make you more risk tolerant? 01:06:10 - Tell us about going from the TA to the PCT 01:08:45 - Did you feel under pressure on the PCT? 01:12:20 - When did you adopt some more trail technology? 01:13:30 - Tell us about hiking the CDT 01:15:30 - What are your top 3 trails of all that you’ve done? 01:19:50 - How was the Hayduke in a high snow year? 01:21:30 - Refresh us on the Grand Enchantment Trail 01:28:00 - Discussion about mountain top geography 01:30:57 - What novice tips do you have for being more aware of your surroundings on a trail? 01:34:30 - Any standout stories from the AT? 01:40:30 - Tell us about the Mogollon Rim Trail 01:45:00 - How much was on trail vs route-finding? 01:47:40 - Tell us about your Pacific Coast Bigfoot Crest Rim Trail 01:55:00 - Animal noises 01:57:00 - Tell us about rafting in the Grand Canyon 01:59:10 - How are you funding all your hikes? 02:04:10 - Tell us about your 2024 hikes 02:07:40 - Tell us about your Desert Winter Thru-Hike 02:11:30 - How was the navigation? 02:15:30 - Discussion about Twig’s footwear 02:16:18 - What was the timeline and weather like? 02:20:30 - What are a few pieces of gear you feel strongly about? 02:28:10 - Stay Salty Question: What is the hottest take in the world of backpacking or the outdoors at large? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson by Kelly Floro QOTD: What’s the hardest part of wedding planning? Mexico Weather of the Week Triple Crown of movies and TV shows that broke us Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Bill Jensen, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Minty Hikes Studio, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37284195

Thru-Hiking for 30 Years, Working for ALDHA-West, Six Moon Designs, & FarOut, and Ridgerunning with a Dog with Whitney "Allgood" La Ruffa (BPR #312) 06/30/2025

Thru-Hiking for 30 Years, Working for ALDHA-West, Six Moon Designs, & FarOut, and Ridgerunning with a Dog with Whitney "Allgood" La Ruffa (BPR #312) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we’re joined by Whitney La Ruffa, better known in the world of backpacking as “Allgood.” Allgood is the former president of ALDHA-West, the current Chief Revenue Officer at FarOut, and a certified backpacking OG—his first thru-hike dates all the way back to the early ’90s (some of you weren’t even alive then… which is weird). Since that first trek, Allgood has racked up an impressive list of trails, including the JMT, Wonderland Trail, Chinook Trail, Sierra High Route, PCT, CDT, and others. In this episode, we dive into stories from his countless miles on trail, his passion for backpacking food—he’s a bona fide backcountry chef, as evidenced by him freeze drying his own meals—and he spills the beans on some of his favorite trail-tested recipes. We also chat about how a chance encounter on the AT led him to adopt his dog, Erwin, and how Erwin has deepened his love for dogs in general. Beyond the trail, we get Allgood’s take on how backpacking has evolved since the 1990s, hear a heartfelt update on the health of former guest and beloved trail icon Renee "She-ra" Patrick, and unpack some of the recent bumps in the road for FarOut. We wrap the show with how Damascus has bounced back in the wake of Hurricane Helene, if animals could talk, which species would be the most annoying, and the triple crown of states we'd draft in a civil war. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 35% off sunglasses at . Betterment: Learn more at . Bear Mattress: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 40% off at . [divider] Interview with Whitney “Allgood” La Ruffa Time stamps & Questions 00:04:25 - Reminders: , hold the Trek’s tent for us, ! 00:11:00 - Introducing Allgood 00:15:52 - How has the world of thru-hiking changed from the early 90’s to now? 00:21:05 - Do you have any strong stances in which you’re a curmudgeon? 00:28:35 - Do you think there are more entitled hikers today? 00:36:05 - Tell us about your dog 00:43:00 - What’s the key to maintaining a dog’s longevity? 00:46:30 - Do you have a strong opinion about fresh/refrigerated dog food? 00:47:30 - Tell us about ridgerunning with Erwin 00:50:13 - Did you do any thru-hiking between 1996 and 2011? 00:52:45 - Tell us about the Chinook Trail 00:54:40 - Have you picked up any parallel hobbies? 00:56:55 - What meals do you make on trail? 00:59:20 - Discussion about dehydrating and freeze-drying food 01:02:40 - Do you have a go-to dehydrated recipe? 01:04:00 - Is there an easy way to tell if meat is fatty? 01:07:20 - Is gear a passionate subject for you? 01:10:05 - What’s the latest with She-Ra? 01:12:30 - How’d you get involved with ALDHA-West? 01:16:40 - How much time did you put in weekly while you were president? 01:19:35 - How’d you get connected with Six Moon Designs? 01:21:10 - What does the typical person not know about the cottage gear industry? 01:24:35 - What’s the next step for FarOut? 01:28:30 - Is there anything cool you’ve learned about FarOut since working there? 01:32:27 - How will FarOut address some of the other beef people have had with the app? 01:35:40 - Where can people keep up with you? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Kelly Floro QOTD: If animals could talk, which species would be the most annoying? Triple Crown of states you would draft in the next civil war Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Clever Innuendo, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Rural Juror, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Quenten Jones, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37211665

Julia "Rocket" Sheehan on Her Social Media Fall from Grace, Quitting on a Thru-Hike, and Her New Book (BPR #311) 06/23/2025

Julia "Rocket" Sheehan on Her Social Media Fall from Grace, Quitting on a Thru-Hike, and Her New Book (BPR #311) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Julia Sheehan, known on trail, as Rocket. Julia is a thru-hiker, former Trek Vlogger, social media sensation, nurse, and now a published author. Julia details how impulsive decision-making lead her to the wonderful world that is thru-hiking, inspired in part by everyone’s favorite Hiking Viking. Rocket also shares how health issues ultimately forced her off-trail, the unsavory response she’s gotten from some in the social media sphere in light of “quitting” and subsequently posting non-hiking content. Julia also shares the process in self-publishing her brand new book, Hiking is the Easy Part, a memoir of her thru-hike on the AT. We wrap the show with some news about Trail Correspondents 2026 edition, the story of a hiker that was found alive at a popular PCT pitstop after being lost in the backcountry for weeks, how much weight people lose during an AT thru-hike (and why it's generally not a good long term weight loss strategy), Chaunce and I have a borderline-impossible coincidence during today's QOTD, and the triple crown of albums. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKSPRING15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . Betterment: Learn more at . [divider] Interview with Julia “Rocket” Sheehan Time stamps & Questions 00:05:30 - Reminders: , and ! 00:07:45 - Introducing Rocket 00:08:20 - Tell us about your social media journey 00:15:30 - Did you ever feel like you could make a living from social media? 00:17:10 - Tell us about your background in the military 00:19:30 - How did you transition from the military to nursing? 00:21:15 - Can you talk about running from things prior to thru-hiking? 00:23:00 - Discussion about Rocket’s eating disorder 00:27:50 - What got you to the AT? 00:32:00 - What was the beginning of the AT like? 00:34:45 - At what point did thru-hiking click for you? 00:38:57 - What’s the hard part of thru-hiking? 00:43:00 - Tell us about the half gallon challenge 00:45:15 - How did you get your trail name? 00:48:00 - What did you think of the AZT? 00:50:20 - How did covid impact your hike? 00:52:35 - Did you encounter rattlesnakes or other creatures? 00:53:40 - What was the water situation like early in the season? 00:54:14 - Tell us about starting the CDT SOBO? 00:57:45 - What was the commentary like when you got off trail? 01:00:50 - How did you end up on the PCT? 01:02:10 - Tell us the story about getting off the PCT 01:06:50 - Did your nursing background help you diagnose anything? 01:07:50 - What was the backlash after getting off the PCT? 01:12:40 - What yoga poses would you recommend to thru-hikers? 01:14:14 - How is your health now? 01:16:40 - Tell us about writing your book 01:20:25 - What’s the most revealing thing you put in the book? 01:22:42 - How’s the early response been for the book? 01:25:10 - What’s next for you? 01:27:01 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson by Katie Jackson QOTD: What’s something you learned embarrassingly late in life? Triple Crown of albums Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37092485

A Lifetime of Trail Maintenance: the Blackburn Trail Center, Building the AT Rollercoaster, and the Potomac AT Club with Chris “Trailboss” Brunton (BPR #310) 06/16/2025

A Lifetime of Trail Maintenance: the Blackburn Trail Center, Building the AT Rollercoaster, and the Potomac AT Club with Chris “Trailboss” Brunton (BPR #310) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Chris Brunton aka “Trailboss”. Trailboss is a legendary force in the construction and maintenance of the Appalachian Trail, most notably, the infamous Rollercoaster section of the trail through Virginia. Trailboss enlightens us with some history of the trail, the process for procuring the trail’s corridor through that section, how he met his wife (CEO of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy) Sandi Marra, why he dedicates his life to the AT, and much more. We wrap the show with a brief overview of the difference between freezing and refrigerating food for Chaunce, the triple of the longest minutes, and a listener provides a hack for staying hydrated when you can’t reach the side pockets on your pack. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 50% off two or more pairs of sunglasses at . Betterment: Learn more at . Ka’Chava: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 15% off at . [divider] Interview with Chris “Trailboss” Brunton Time stamps & Questions 00:05:20 - Trail Days Day 2 00:13:25 - Reminders: , and ! 00:15:30 - Introducing Trailboss 00:18:00 - Tell us about growing up in England 00:21:00 - How did you get started doing trail work? 00:33:00 - What brought you to the US? 00:37:00 - What was it like to emigrate to the US? 00:38:55 - How did you deal with the aftermath of handshake agreements? 00:42:10 - What was the mindset when building the Rollercoaster section? 00:47:50 - When did the section get its name and its sign? 00:53:40 - What is the motive in purchasing land near the trail corridor? 00:54:50 - What are the positive benefits of the ATC? 01:02:00 - Discussion about Benton McCaye and Myron Avery 01:06:40 - What are the rewarding aspects of doing trail maintenance? 01:12:30 - How did the PATC get started? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Karl Ford QOTD: Does ice cream expire and if so why? Triple Crown of the longest minutes Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/37013150

Thru-Hiking with Your Sister, Triple Crowning without a Trail Name, and Tour du Mont Blanc with Jamie Lambert (BPR #309) 06/09/2025

Thru-Hiking with Your Sister, Triple Crowning without a Trail Name, and Tour du Mont Blanc with Jamie Lambert (BPR #309) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Jamie Lambert. We learn why Jamie doesn’t have a trail name, and why it’s definitely not Strap On, what it’s like to thru-hike with your sister- which she did on the PCT in 2018, what it is about thru-hiking that makes it so addictive for her- having taken on long hikes every year over the last 8 seasons, what it’s like to become social media famous, and much more. We wrap the show with an overview from day one of Trail Days, some new legislation that could result in finally completing the CDT, why a section of the PCT has been closed for MYLFs, our BS TED talks, and the triple crown of words we'll never pronounce correctly. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKSPRING15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . Betterment: Learn more at . [divider] Interview with Jamie Lambert Time stamps & Questions 00:05:00 - Trail Days Day 1 Recap 00:11:00 - Introducing Jamie 00:14:00 - How did you decide to hike the PCT with your sister? 00:18:45 - What’s it like working for an orthodontist? 00:23:18 - What was it like to hike with your sister? 00:30:00 - Discussion about the Colorado Trail 00:35:08 - What is it about thru-hiking that you love? 00:37:45 - Have you hit a fork in the road feeling about thru-hiking? 00:41:10 - If you had to settle somewhere, where would you choose? 00:45:15 - What’s the brief overview of the Tour du Mont Blanc? 00:47:15 - Why do people hike counter clockwise? 00:51:20 - Discussion about lodging and towns along the TMB 00:53:00 - Are there places along the trail where you could stay a few days? 00:55:10 - Discussion about guiding services on the TMB 00:56:51 - What time of year would you recommend? 01:00:30 - What changes in items did you carry? 01:01:45 - When did you know you wanted to hike the CDT too? 01:05:22 - Discussion about hiking the AT third 01:08:40 - How do you handle people fangirling around you? 01:11:02 - What’s been the highlight of the AT for you so far? 01:12:05 - What’s the most embarrassing thing that’s happened to you while hiking? 01:14:05 - What’s the scariest thing that’s happened to you while hiking? 01:18:00 - Do you have any advice for solo female backpackers? 01:22:25 - What’s your biggest beginner blunder? 01:24:44 - What do your resupplies look like these days? 01:30:00 - What shoes are you using? 01:33:30 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance enhancing or backpacking hack? 01:35:25 - Reminders: ! and ! Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson by Kelsey Nannini QOTD: If you had to give a TED Talk on something you're not a real expert on—but could fake it—what topic would you choose? Triple Crown of words you’ll never pronounce correctly Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/36918435

Lightning Safety and Myth Busting with NOAA Meteorologist Charlie Woodrum (BPR #308) 06/02/2025

Lightning Safety and Myth Busting with NOAA Meteorologist Charlie Woodrum (BPR #308) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are giving you the lowdown on everything to do with lightning safety. We are joined by Charlie Woodrum who is the Preparedness and Resilience Lead with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service. We learn all about the biggest myths regarding lightning safety (including how metal trekking poles aren’t an added risk while backpacking), clear guidance on minimizing risk when caught in a thunderstorm, telltale signs of when the weather is going to turn, at what distance from a lightning strike are you considered safe, and much more. We wrap the show with some new YouTube videos from The Trek, the scariest weather Zach and Chaunce have ever encountered, Zach's new stupidest thing of the week: fork edition, and the triple crown of juices. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 35% off at . Betterment: Learn more at . [divider] Interview with Charlie Woodrum Time stamps & Questions 00:05:20 - Reminders: , and ! 00:11:15 - Introducing Charlie 00:12:20 - Tell us about NOAA 00:14:02 - How did you initially get into weather? 00:16:56 - Do meteorologists have certain traits? 00:19:03 - What is the perfect date for weather? 00:22:50 - Are you ever bored when the weather is calm? 00:23:35 - Are there hot topics in the meteorology community? 00:25:57 - Do you have any crazy storm chasing stories? 00:34:11 - What are the biggest misconceptions about lightning? 00:36:28 - What should you do when hiking above treeline? 00:38:00 - Is the timing between thunder and lightning real? 00:39:24 - What are your recommended weather apps? 00:40:40 - How far away should you be from lightning strikes to be considered safe? 00:41:35 - Do you find that free weather apps are sufficient? 00:42:50 - What are some of the early signs of a thunderstorm forming? 00:44:11 - What are the cues for specific locations? 00:46:45 - Do you not have to worry about lightning before you hear thunder? 00:47:56 - Where should you be when in a forest? 00:50:00 - Is the lightning crouch still recommended? 00:51:30 - What if there’s no treeline around? 00:53:30 - Where should you put your tent? 00:57:00 - What percentage of lightning strikes are fatal? 00:59:40 - What do you do if someone gets struck by lightning? 01:02:05 - Should hikers be concerned about metal objects they’re carrying? 01:03:30 - What about bodies of water? 01:04:40 - What are some obvious questions that we haven’t asked? 01:06:35 - What should you do if you feel tingly or there’s static in the air? 01:08:27 - At what percentage of forecasted storms would you feel comfortable going outside? 01:11:00 - When is it safe to go back up to the treeline? 01:12:00 - Are there places where weather is harder to predict? 01:14:05 - What impact do you think AI will have on the future of forecasting? 01:16:16 - Are there any tech innovations that you’re excited about? 01:17:30 - Where can people keep up with you? Segments Trek Propaganda: By Katie Jackson QOTD: What’s the scariest weather you’ve ever encountered? Triple Crown of juices Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/36806440

Making Custom Packs, Setting FKTs, Escaping Death, and Starting an Outfitter with Jonathan "Janis Joplin" Thomas (BPR #307) 05/26/2025

Making Custom Packs, Setting FKTs, Escaping Death, and Starting an Outfitter with Jonathan "Janis Joplin" Thomas (BPR #307) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Jonathan Thomas, known on trail as Janis Joplin. Janis Joplin is a thru-hiker, FKT record holder, D1 collegiate track and field athlete, former news cameraman, Boston Marathon bombing survivor, CDT trail angel, and owner of Exotic Pax, an innovative, vest-style backpack for thru-hikers handmade in Chama, New Mexico. This episode covers a lot of ground, including the many times he’s narrowly escaped death, what is was like growing up in New Orleans, being a D1 collegiate athlete, what brought him into the world of FKTs and how FKT athletes are more possessive over their records than they might lead on, what it’s like to run an outfitter in a sleepy CDT town, and the inspiration and process that goes into his unique backpacks. We wrap the show with a reversal on the closure of a campground key to JMT and PCT hikers, our takes on who’d win in a fight between 100 men and one silverback gorilla, and the Triple Crown of items you geniously stash in many strategic locations. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKSPRING15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Betterment: Learn more at . Burgeon Outdoor: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at . Bear Mattress: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 40% off at . [divider] Interview with Jonathan Thomas aka JJ Time stamps & Questions 00:05:34 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:09:25 - Introducing JJ 00:10:28 - What’s it like growing up in New Orleans? 00:18:10 - Tell us about working for a news channel 00:21:40 - What’s the most interesting scene you ever shot from? 00:24:30 - What were the highlights from the local news industry? 00:26:50 - What events did you do at LSU? 00:30:00 - Discussion about biking in Baton Rouge 00:34:20 - What personality differences were there between swimmers and runners?00:35:25 - Why did you walk on to the team at LSU? 00:37:35 - Tell us about running the Boston marathon 00:40:40 - How did you get into hiking? 00:43:20 - How did the PCT compare to running? 00:44:12 - How have you processed the trauma you’ve gone through? 00:48:27 - Did the calm on a long trail draw you in? 00:50:10 - Tell us about attempting to do an FKT in the middle of your PCT thru-hike 00:53:40 - What are the differences between the different distances of running? 00:59:25 - What are the differences between preparing for an FKT and for road running? 01:03:40 - How do you train for the unexpected? 01:12:15 - What’s the wildest hallucination you’ve had? 01:17:00 - Is it difficult to maintain motivation during your FKT attempt? 01:26:20 - Discussion about JJ’s Oregon FKT 01:29:30 - Wheel spin 01:36:25 - Tell us about the Oregon FKT 01:39:50 - Why did you carry a cast iron on the trail? 01:45:40 - Tell us about your interactions with foxes 01:49:45 - What other meals do you make on trail? 01:56:20 - What’s the inspiration for your company? 02:03:40 - What are the main stitches used in backpacking gear? 02:09:12 - Discussion about Exotic Pax 02:12:30 - How did Tate find you to make his pack? 02:16:27 - Tell us about the process with making custom packs 02:18:00 - Which model of backpack is the most popular? 02:20:40 - Tell us about the zippered pocket 02:22:42 - Explain the vest functionality of your backpack 02:30:00 - Chaunce tries on the backpack 02:33:30 - How do you do the sizing? 02:37:20 - How did you decide to go for the PCT FKT this year? 02:39:00 - Where can people keep up with you? 02:39:48 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: Who wins in a fight, 1 gorilla vs. 100 men? Triple Crown of items you geniously stash in many strategic locations Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/36713820

Working as a Death Doula and Managing Death Anxiety with Niki DiGaetano (BPR #306) 05/19/2025

Working as a Death Doula and Managing Death Anxiety with Niki DiGaetano (BPR #306) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Niki DiGaetano, known on trail as Phoenix. In addition to being a long distance backpacker, the bulk of today’s conversation centers around Niki’s work as a death doula. We learn, of course, what that work entails, how her experiences working with those at the end of their lives have reframed how she lives hers, advice for those currently processing the death of a loved one, dealing with anxieties around death, and much more. We wrap the show with how the Appalachian Trail has changed over the last 10 years, ridiculous features we’d like to see added to a backpack, and the triple crown of last meal orders. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Burgeon Outdoor: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at . Betterment: Learn more at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 50% off two or more pairs of sunglasses at . [divider] Interview with Niki DiGaetano Time stamps & Questions 00:05:10 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:08:40 - Introducing Niki 00:10:19 - What is a death doula? 00:12:07 - How did you get into this field? 00:15:10 - How do you not get weighed down by the work? 00:17:05 - What does the training look like? 00:21:10 - What is the top piece of advice you have for preparing for a loved one’s passing? 00:23:10 - How do you help people cope with death anxiety? 00:25:30 - How often are people prepared for death? 00:29:42 - How does religion and spirituality play into your work? 00:31:30 - What do you think comes next? 00:35:50 - What advice do you have for people in the grieving process? 00:38:50 - What do you think about the 5 Stages of Grief? 00:41:30 - What are the common regrets of people who are dying? 00:45:30 - How has your work intersected with hiking long trails? 00:47:47 - Tell us about your past relationship 00:55:20 - How did the trail help you grow? 00:56:00 - How did you meet your current partner? 01:00:30 - What are your plans for the future in terms of your career and hiking? 01:02:57 - How do you balance offering advice to your friends and family? 01:05:00 - Discussion about death anxiety 01:07:10 - Do you have any advice for someone debating about doing a thru-hike? 01:09:20 - Tell us about the book you’re working on 01:10:37 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking - or death? 01:12:23 - Where can people keep up with you? Segments Trek Propaganda By Katie Jackson by Kelly Floro QOTD: If you could add one ridiculous feature to a backpack—purely for entertainment—what would it be? Triple Crown of last meal orders Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/36599910

Live from Austin: Paul Magnanti, aka "PMags," on Hot Gear Takes, Public Lands, & Hiking the Southwest (BPR #305) 05/12/2025

Live from Austin: Paul Magnanti, aka "PMags," on Hot Gear Takes, Public Lands, & Hiking the Southwest (BPR #305) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, and brought to you by Topo Athletic, we’re coming to you live from Austin, Texas with our guest, Paul Magnanti, aka Mags, aka Pmags. A longtime co-host of The Trail Show and a triple crowner, Pmags has spent decades exploring trails across the country, with a special love for the Southwest. We dive into the future of public lands, hear some of his hot takes on gear, including his love for 100-weight fleece pullovers, his beef with sun hoodies, and where hikers tend to overspend, and get a look at his go-to "snivel gear." Pmags also shares stories from some of his lesser-known adventures, including the Ring the Peak Trail, A Walk Across Southern Utah, the Northern New Mexico Loop, the Grand Moab Route, and the Southeast Utah Group Circuit. We wrap out the show with a rundown of the best sections of the Appalachian Trail (spoiler: #1 shocked our live audience), a "stupid thing of the week" (lost phone edition), a "gross or not gross" (chapstick edition), and the triple crown of trail towns. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Betterment: Learn more at . Burgeon Outdoor: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at . Purple Rain Skirts: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off at . [divider] Interview with Paul Magnanti Time stamps & Questions 00:07:05 - Reminders: , , and ! Trek booth location 00:10:00 - Introducing PMags 00:10:40 - What’s your backpacking origin story? 00:12:17 - Have you backpacked in Texas? 00:14:00 - How many people in Rhode Island backpack? 00:16:25 - Tell us about being a “structured rambler” and living in Moab 00:19:20 - What advice do you have for thru-hikers to incorporate more rambling into their hikes? 00:21:30 - What’s your backpacking resume? 00:24:15 - What’s your take on what’s happening with public lands? 00:28:47 - What do you look for in a headlamp? 00:35:00 - Tell us your opinion about sun hoodies 00:40:40 - Have you had a midlife crisis yet? 00:41:30 - Tell us about your wife! 00:43:22 - Are you worried about microplastics? 00:45:02 - What camera do you use? 00:50:00 - Discussion about The Trail Show 00:51:40 - Tell us about the 100-weight pullover fleece 00:56:38 - Tell us about snivel gear 00:57:40 - What’s your solo baseweight for a typical trip? 01:00:18 - What’s your take on trowels? 01:03:05 - What’s your take on campfires in the west? 01:09:55 - Tell us about the Ring the Peak Trail 01:13:50 - Tell us about A Walk Across Southern Utah 01:16:20 - Discussion about the beer in Utah 01:17:20 - Tell us about the cultures of Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico 01:20:35 - How much research do you do prior to your ramblings? 01:22:08 - What are some places that people should know about? 01:23:40 - Have you seen any megafauna in etchings? 01:27:13 - Tell us about the Northern New Mexico Loop 01:30:35 - Tell us about the South East Utah Group (SEUG) Circuit 01:34:15 - How do you prepare for paddling trips? 01:35:50 - What’s your most embarrassing moment while backpacking? 01:36:45 - What’s your scariest encounter with wildlife? 01:37:45 - What’s your most recent mistake? 01:39:50 - Fuck Marry Kill: Utah, Colorado, New Mexico 01:41:40 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? 01:42:40 - Where can people keep up with you? Segments Listener Q&A Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson by Katie Jackson QOTD: What’s a hill you’re willing to die on that has nothing to do with hiking? Stupid Thing of the Week Gross or Not Gross Triple Crown of trail towns Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/36515295

Beginner Backpacking Mistakes 3.0 (BPR #304) 05/05/2025

Beginner Backpacking Mistakes 3.0 (BPR #304) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are bringing you yet another edition of beginner backpacking mistakes. Today’s panel includes the debut of Jess Stone, 2024 AT and LT thru-hiker, and The Trek’s Community and Marketing Manager. We bring you 9 brand new thru-hiking pitfalls to avoid, including tips on sending mail drops, how to avoid letting small problems turn into big problems, dealing with toxic off-trail relationships before departing, hydration tips, why you shouldn’t invite friends and family on your trip, and much more. We wrap the show with a call out to some Trek bloggers, the definitively correct orientation for silverware in the dishwasher, the triple crown of good horse names, and what not to eat before mailing important letters. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Burgeon Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at . Shady Rays: Use code “TREK” for 35% off at . [divider] Panel with Zach, Chaunce, and Jess Referenced episodes Time stamps & Questions 00:06:20 - Reminders: Say hi to us at Trail Days, , ! 00:14:03 - Introducing Jess 00:17:32 - Zach’s Mistake #1: Overplanning, especially maildrops and daily mileage 00:24:00 - Chaunce’s Mistake #1: Not looking up LNT principles before your hike 00:29:00 - Jess’s Mistake #1: Not drinking enough water 00:32:20 - Zach’s Mistake #2: Letting small problems become big problems 00:41:15 - Chaunce’s Mistake #2: If you don’t like who you’re dating at home, consider dumping them 00:47:20 - Jess’s Mistake #2: Inviting your friends/family to hike with you when you’ve been out for months 00:54:40 - Zach’s Mistake #3: Not considering the weight/space of everything 01:00:40 - Chaunce’s Mistake #3: Not taking photos of your stuff 01:08:45 - Jess’s Mistake #3: Marrying your trail family 01:23:15 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking? 01:28:20 - How was the AT? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Jess QOTD: Silverware up or down in the dishwasher? Hiker Trash Thing of the Week Triple Crown of good horse names Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/36421495

Graduating Army Ranger School and Thru-Hiking After 30+ Years in the Military with Jay "Meat Grinder" France (BPR #303) 04/28/2025

Graduating Army Ranger School and Thru-Hiking After 30+ Years in the Military with Jay "Meat Grinder" France (BPR #303) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Atheltic, we are joined by Jay “Meat Grinder” France. Meat Grinder is a thru-hiker, author, and 31-year veteran of the Air Force, having completed 10 deployments and graduated from Army Ranger School in the process. Jay details his military background, including some key similarities and differences relative to thru-hiking, how he used vlogging as a way to stay in touch with his sons on trail, and the hilarious blood nipple origin story of his trail name. Meat Grinder also recently served as a volunteer advocate for Hike The Hill, an annual event where trail advocates meet with U.S. Congress to promote policies and funding that support trails, public lands, and outdoor recreation. Jay offers some important advice for those who want to advocate for public lands, especially relevant in today’s climate. We wrap the show with the top AT hostels, our triple crown of airplane snacks, and two completely unnecessary improvements to the Appalachian Trail. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKSPRING15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Vaer Watches: Check out Vaer Watches at . Purple Rain Skirts: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off at . Burgeon Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at . [divider] Interview with Jay “Meat Grinder” France Time stamps & Questions 00:05:42 - Reminders: ! Say hi to us at Trail Days, , and ! 00:09:33 - Introducing Jay 00:10:14 - When did you almost ambush AT hikers? 00:15:25 - Tell us about Army Ranger School 00:20:07 - Did you see alligators in Florida? 00:22:13 - How did you decide to join the military? 00:24:07 - Fuck Marry Kill: Jay’s US assignment locations 00:25:50 - Tell us about being a canine officer 00:29:44 - Tell us about your deployments after 911 00:32:25 - When did you have kids amidst your deployments? 00:33:10 - What were some of the terrifying experiences? 00:35:50 - What do they teach you in Army Ranger School? 00:41:20 - Do you think you could have passed early on in your military years? 00:45:25 - Tell us about hiking the Wonderland Trail in 2003 00:48:25 - Do you have tips for people from the military getting started hiking? 00:49:40 - How did you decide to go on that hike? 00:51:10 - Did you still enjoy the hike? 00:52:30 - What led to your retirement from the military? 00:55:25 - How did you get your trail name? 01:03:00 - How did your family react to your decision to hike the PCT? 01:06:15 - How were the snow and fires on the PCT? 01:15:30 - How did you handle skipping miles due to the fires? 01:20:18 - What was your social environment like on the trail? 01:24:27 - Do you think unplugging was good for you? 01:26:55 - Did you know right away you’d do another thru-hike? 01:29:15 - Did the ranger school prepare you for the CT? 01:34:25 - Are your sons interested in hiking with you? 01:37:25 - Tell us about the Tahoe Rim Trail in 2023 01:40:12 - Tell us about your book 01:43:40 - What aspect of the book have you gotten the most positive feedback on? 01:47:00 - What were some of the mental health challenges you dealt with? 01:54:27 - Tell us about being a Hike the Hill advocate for the PCTA 01:59:38 - Do you have advice for people who want to get involved? 02:05:52 - Where can people go to keep up with you? 02:06:50 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: If you could make one completely unnecessary improvement to the Appalachian Trail, what would it be? Triple Crown of airplane snacks Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason “The Snail” Snailer, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/36320090

Hiking with a Tote Bag, Ultramarathons in a Roundabout, and Creative Trail Shenanigans with Tate "Pyro" Dobson (BPR #302) 04/21/2025

Hiking with a Tote Bag, Ultramarathons in a Roundabout, and Creative Trail Shenanigans with Tate "Pyro" Dobson (BPR #302) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Tate Dobson, known on trail as Pyro. Tate is a certified wildcard. It’s not just that he’s hiked the PCT, AT, Long Trail, and Te Araroa, but how he’s done it, including hiking the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail spending $1,000 (alongside Quadzilla), hiking long stretches with carrying a Jansport pack, another stretch using tote bag, hiking the R2R2R eating only Motts Fruit snacks and the 100-Mile Wilderness consuming only maple syrup and a jar of peanut butter. He’s run a pair of ultramarathons around a roundabout, he’s run a beer mile with his mom, and has accomplished another mile consuming four shots of tequila and a tube of toothpaste. In other words, strap in. We wrap the show with some bucket list hikes you can do over a long weekend, the triple crown of stuipd word spellings, a listener poop story, and more. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Vaer Watches: Check out Vaer Watches at . Bear Mattress: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 40% off at . Burgeon Outdoors: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at . [divider] Interview with Tate “Pyro” Dobson Time stamps & Questions 00:06:34 - Reminders: Check out and on Youtube, , and ! 00:9:40 - Introducing Tate 00:11:40 - How do Chaunce and Tate know each other? 00:14:20 - How did you get into the outdoors? 00:15:11 - What trajectory led to dropping out of high school and college and how did you start thru-hiking? 00:18:25 - Tell us about your 2019 PCT hike? 00:20:55 - What’s your perspective on continuous footpaths? 00:22:53 - Where was your head at when you got off the PCT? 00:24:03 - When did you next get on trail? 00:25:37 - Are you a known figure in Durango? 00:28:00 - How did you get on the Colorado Trail? 00:31:22 - Any standout stories from the Colorado Trail? 00:31:51 - Do you have any poop stories? 00:35:40 - How was the Sierra High Route? 00:42:00 - Tell us about the PCT in 2022 00:44:45 - When did things start to get weird? 00:53:15 - Did you hike the whole trail in sandals? 00:54:20 - What other weird things did you do on the PCT? 00:56:10 - Where did you get your marathon idea? 00:59:40 - Did you feel any asymmetric pain afterwards? 01:01:07 - Tell us about your beer mile 01:02:50 - What is the toothpaste and tequila mile? 01:05:45 - Did you see any interesting people during the roundabout run? 01:07:45 - Tell us about your other impractical backpacks 01:11:40 - Tell us about your TA hike 01:18:07 - What’s your favorite mom story? 01:19:27 - How’d you clean off the mud? 01:22:50 - How do you keep losing toothbrushes? 01:24:36 - Tell us about starting the AT last year 01:26:35 - What was the budget challenge you did? 01:28:30 - What tips do you have for hiking on a budget? 01:33:24 - What’d you do while Quadzilla was in the hospital? 01:34:30 - What’s the craziest story from the AT? 01:39:30 - When did you stop carrying the tote bag? 01:42:05 - Any fun stories from the Long Trail? 01:48:20 - Tell us about the Rim to Rim to Rim 01:51:40 - What plans do you have for the CDT? 01:53:20 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking? 01:54:55 - What’s your dream sponsor? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: Would you rather never get blisters again but have to hike in Crocs, or always have the best gear but get a new blister every day? Triple Crown of stupid word spellings Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/36235290

The Camino de Costa Rica with Maytal "Carrot Top" Agasi (BPR #301) 04/14/2025

The Camino de Costa Rica with Maytal "Carrot Top" Agasi (BPR #301) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we’re joined by Maytal Agasi, known on trail as Carrot Top. In this episode, we learn how a road trip in a mid-size SUV with her two brothers sparked Carrot Top’s entry into the world of thru-hiking. She shares how she benefitted massively from both solo and group thru-hikes. We chat about her time on the JMT, Colorado Trail, and PCT, and we take a deeper dive into her most recent trek on the Camino de Costa Rica, covering standout cultural elements, landscape highlights, the incredibly muggy weather, rich wildlife (including venomous snakes and sloths), managing language barriers, unique logistical challenges, and more. A quick note: I made a big time dumb guy mistake. About 30 minutes into the interview, I realized our audio recorder wasn’t rolling. The first 36 minutes of the interview have lower audio quality than usual. That portion still offers important context about Maytal’s journey into the outdoors, but if it’s too distracting, the audio quality improves at the 36-minute mark of the interview. Trigger warning: This interview includes discussion of suicide. If this is a sensitive topic for you, we recommend skipping ahead to the point where the audio improves—again 36 minutes into the interview. We wrap the show with another clue about our super secret special guest for the upcoming live podcast in Austin, what ridiculous outfit we’d hike in forever, the Triple Crown of Colorado stereotypes, and a disturbing story of an international hiker who was detained, deported, and banned from the U.S. on her way to hike the Arizona Trail. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Vaer Watches: Check out Vaer Watches at . AG1: Get your free $79 gift at . [divider] Interview with Maytal “Carrottop” Agasi Time stamps & Questions 00:06:10 - Reminders: , , , and ! 00:10:00 - Audio note 00:12:10 - Introducing Maytal 00:15:30 - How did you get your trail name? 00:16:05 - What does a garden educator do? 00:17:24 - What is the best plant? 00:19:40 - How did you get into hiking? 00:21:23 - Why don’t you fight with your siblings? 00:24:00 - Discussion about Maytal’s roadtrip 00:25:23 - Are your parents hippie-adjacent? 00:27:08 - What’s your favorite on-trail meal to make? 00:30:50 - Do you taste the meals before dehydrating them? 00:32:44 - How did you decide to hike the JMT? 00:34:10 - What happened to your dad? 00:38:30 - How do you process things as well as enjoy the trail while hiking? 00:40:50 - Was it intimidating to hike mostly solo on your first hike? 00:46:17 - Are there any fats that are safe to dehydrate? 00:46:55 - Did you know right away you wanted to do more hikes? 00:49:45 - Have you butt heads with anyone on trail? 00:52:00 - How did you get your gear dialed in for the JMT? 00:55:00 - Discussion about stool sample tests 00:57:45 - Were you happy to hike the CT with a friend or did you ever want space? 01:00:50 - What did you like about Salida? 01:03:03 - When did you decide to hike the PCT? 01:05:30 - Tell us about almost falling off a mountain 01:10:35 - What was it like to go through the Sierra twice? 01:12:45 - How did you learn about the Camino de Costa Rica? 01:15:57 - Are guides required? 01:16:50 - How long is the trail and what is the mileage like each day? 01:20:30 - Do you pay the host families? 01:23:40 - How did you communicate that you were vegetarian? 01:24:50 - Did you have cell service? 01:26:00 - Do you know how many people have hiked this trail? 01:28:30 - What was the weather like? 01:30:25 - What were the landscape highlights of the trail? 01:38:00 - Discussion about wildlife 01:41:05 - Were there other opportunities to eat in town? 01:42:12 - What are the biggest cultural differences? 01:45:55 - What would you like to relay to the listeners of Backpacker Radio? 01:47:38 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda by Jess by Caitlin Hardee QOTD: If you could only hike in one ridiculous outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be? Triple Crown of Colorado stereotypes Thing of the Week Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/36106645

Mike Clelland 2.0: Owls, UFOs, Alien Encounters, Hypnosis, and More (BPR #300) 04/07/2025

Mike Clelland 2.0: Owls, UFOs, Alien Encounters, Hypnosis, and More (BPR #300) In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by author, backpacker, and our resident alien expert, Mike Clelland. We made an honest attempt to discuss ultralight backpacking during this one, and although we do touch on the subject some, the bulk of this conversation is dedicated to owls, aliens, and all things paranormal activity. Mike has become the preeminent expert of the interplay between owls and UFO citings, which may not sound like a thing, however Mike has accrued a lifetime of stories from folks who have experiences that say that it is. If owls and aliens don't sound like your jam, we encourage you to give this one a shot, as Mike's long standing intense passion for these subjects turns out to be awfully contagious; Chaunce and I are thoroughly entertained. We also discuss the pros and cons of traditional vs. self-publishing, which Mike has done both, but really this is mostly aliens and owls. Warning: This episode includes discussions of rape, death, and child loss in the context of aliens. If any of these topics are triggering, we encourage you to skip this interview. We wrap the show with the news that the Backpacker Radio crew is headed to AT Trail Days, news of a woman who set the overall FKT on the Florida Trail, Knorr Side recipe recommendations, the shortest roast in the history of roasts, what animal we'd train to be our hiking companion, the triple crown of memes, dog's cornchip paws, and more. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . [divider] Interview with Mike Clelland Time stamps & Questions 00:09:15 - Reminders: , , , and ! 00:13:19 - Introducing Mike 00:14:05 - What have you been up to since we last had you on? 00:17:00 - Fuck Marry Kill: Podcasting, Writing Books, and Illustrating 00:21:23 - What are the pros and cons of self-publishing? 00:26:16 - Give us the primer on why you think owls are special 00:31:35 - What are the general trends of people’s owl sightings? 00:37:24 - Have you noticed commonalities between the people? 00:41:04 - Owl + UFO story 00:47:20 - In your opinion, what are aliens? 00:49:18 - What do you personally believe? 00:57:25 - What do you believe in terms of these common alien theories? 01:01:25 - What motivates the aliens? 01:04:06 - Are the aliens visiting intentionally or passing by? 01:06:45 - How does one become owl-ready? 01:09:45 - Why don’t the aliens visit you all the time? 01:13:24 - Do you consider yourself a healer? 01:15:04 - Do you still cut the handles off the toothbrush? 01:16:05 - What got you into ultralight backpacking and inspired you to write the book? 01:23:35 - What types of trips did you go on? 01:24:50 - What are your strongest convictions about ultralight backpacking? 01:30:45 - How do you go ultralight despite having fears about the outdoors? 01:35:46 - How did you get into owls and UFOs? 01:47:00 - Chaunce’s story 01:55:55 - Where do you think that voice came from? 02:02:40 - Return to Mike’s story 02:07:03 - Are you still trying to process what happened and seeking the why? 02:08:20 - What happened on that day? 02:24:30 - Why isn’t there clearer evidence of all this? 02:26:50 - What’s the difference between paranormal activity and hallucination? 02:29:44 - What is your answer to why are you here? 02:31:37 - Do you think we’re living in a simulation and what happens after we die? 02:37:30 - Mike’s hypnosis session 02:52:30 - Do you think you’re an alien scribe? 02:56:00 - What percent of you thinks you’re an alien? 02:59:52 - What are your closing thoughts? 03:02:17 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking? Or, what’s something you’d add to ultralight backpacking? Or, what tip do you violate the most? 03:08:10 - Where can people keep up with you? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson by Sheraya Smith QOTD: If you could train any animal to be your hiking companion, what would it be and what special skills would it have? The Shortest Roast of All Time Triple Crown of internet memes Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti “Lumberjack”, Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/36026085

A 3,600 Mile Triathlon, International Kidnapping, and A Truck-Pulling Marathon with Justin True (BPR #299) 03/30/2025

A 3,600 Mile Triathlon, International Kidnapping, and A Truck-Pulling Marathon with Justin True (BPR #299) In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Justin True. Justin's story is truly remarkable. From growing up in a home with intense physical and emotional abuse, to becoming a professional MMA fighter, to pulling a 1.5 vehicle for a full-marathon, to completing a 24hr Hero Crossfit WODathon, to being kidnapped in Egypt and deported for being accused of spying for the government, getting attacked by a shark, and most recently completing the "True Triathlon" a country wide endurance feat, including a 50-mile swim, 3,000-mile bike ride, and a 600-mile run. Given that Justin does everything to the extreme, following suit, this interview is also a marathon, but we promise you the time will fly by. Warning: This episode discusses suicide. If this topic is triggering, we encourage you to skip this interview. Help is available, call or text 988 for support. We wrap the show with the reality TV shows we want to see come to fruition, the triple crown of things that give us unreasonable anxiety, and our brutally honest opinion about New York's Northville Placid Trail. Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Purple Rain Skirts: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . [divider] Interview with Justin True Time stamps & Questions 00:04:52 - Reminders: , , and ! And ! 00:09:30 - Introducing Justin 00:10:17 - Why are you flying out to Florida? 00:14:15 - How long did the marathon take you when you were pulling a truck? 00:18:10 - Where do you get these crazy ideas? 00:23:50 - Tell us about your challenging upbringing 00:28:00 - Where do you think their anger came from? 00:31:30 - Was your mom aware of what was happening? 00:32:30 - When did you pick up fighting? 00:35:00 - Discussion about Justin’s parents 00:42:20 - Did your brother’s behavior change towards you after that? 00:43:25 - Have you thought about choosing a different path than your family? 00:46:30 - Did you work as an engineer? 00:47:40 - Tell us about fighting full time 00:53:25 - Were you ever afraid while fighting? 00:54:37 - At what point did you shift into more endurance related sports? 00:57:13 - How much cardio did you do while fighting? 01:00:00 - Do you have Type 1 fun while you’re struggling? 01:02:20 - Do you ever miss adrenaline while on long runs? 01:05:30 - Tell us the background of Cycle4Gaza 01:08:00 - Tell us about getting kidnapped in Africa 01:27:30 - Were you afraid at any point during this ordeal? 01:29:25 - Did you see anything you shouldn’t have seen? 01:30:35 - Tell us about setting the single person record for the Three National Peaks 01:37:00 - How were you working all this financially? 01:39:40 - Tell us about doing the Olympic Triathlon with a 90 pound hammer 01:42:45 - When did the kilt come into play? 01:50:58 - Did you fight a shark? 01:58:20 - What’s the heaviest you’ve deadlifted? 02:02:05 - Tell us about your 500-mile walk across Madagascar 02:16:34 - What were the highlights of Madagascar? 02:21:50 - Tell us about the 24hr Hero Crossfit WODathon 02:28:04 - Where did the idea for the True Triathlon come from? 02:31:00 - Discussion about the swim portion 02:34:30 - How big was your team? 02:39:00 - How are you so hard on yourself but see other people differently? 02:43:10 - Where does the poop go? 02:44:30 - Where do you start biking? 02:50:20 - Why did the swim coach stay until Houston? 02:53:00 - What does your mom think about all your adventures? 02:53:40 - What standout stories do you have from the biking portion? 02:59:40 - Justin’s plans for next year 03:01:25 - Discussion about falling asleep while swimming 03:05:30 - Discussion about the triathlon 03:22:00 - What’s the takeaway of being inspired by other people? 03:23:30 - What’d you feel when you finally finished? 03:27:00 - Tell us about Naked & Afraid 03:30:30 - Were you shy about being naked on tv? 03:33:00 - What were your takeaways from the show? 03:36:25 - What was the duration and the prize? 03:41:00 - Have you considered any more traditional endurance events like FKTs or the Barkley? 03:42:35 - Tell us about the runs you do while drinking beer 03:45:15 - Do you have any plans on slowing down? 03:48:00 - Where should people go to keep up with you? Segments QOTD: What’s a reality TV show you want to see brought into existence? Triple Crown of things that give you unreasonable anxiety Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/35918620

Budget Backpacking Gear: Saving Money on Tents, Backpacks, Clothing for Thru-Hiking (BPR #298) 03/24/2025

Budget Backpacking Gear: Saving Money on Tents, Backpacks, Clothing for Thru-Hiking (BPR #298) In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we’re joined by former guest, Trek writer, and certified gear nerd Alex “GPS” Brown. The focus of this one is how to save money on your backpacking kit. We break this one down category by category, sharing the best ways to cut costs, pinpointing which items aren’t worth pinching pennies on, offering specific product shoutouts, and discussing overall strategies to ensure more of your hiking budget goes toward your hike. Whether you're on a shoestring budget or just looking to save a few bucks, this episode is for you. We wrap the show with news on a partial reversal of NPS layoffs, a debate on whether we'd prefer to be chased by a bizarrely fast turtle or lug around a backpack full of jelly, and the triple crown of foods we wish we had discovered sooner. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . Purple Rain Skirts: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off at . Bear Mattress: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 40% off at . [divider] Interview with Alex “GPS” Brown Time stamps & Questions 00:05:15 - Reminders: , , and ! And ! 00:13:30 - Introducing Alex 00:14:07 - Tell us about the Haute Route Pyrenees 00:19:00 - Disclaimers for this episode 00:31:50 - Budget backpacks 00:36:40 - Budget tents 00:44:00 - Budget sleeping bags 00:50:40 - Budget groundcloths 00:54:00 - Budget sleeping pads 01:02:20 - Budget footwear 01:20:16 - Budget socks 01:26:30 - Budget rain gear 01:38:00 - Budget clothing 01:50:05 - Budget cookware 01:55:10 - Honorable budget mentions 02:01:45 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Alex’s Poop Story Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: Would you rather hike 100 miles while being chased by a slightly-too-fast tortoise or while wearing a backpack full of jelly? Triple Crown of foods you wish you knew existed sooner Mail Bag 5 Star Review (!) [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/35820955

Triple Crowning in Three Years, Ultralight Tips, and Cold Soaking with Austen McDaniel (BPR #297) 03/17/2025

Triple Crowning in Three Years, Ultralight Tips, and Cold Soaking with Austen McDaniel (BPR #297) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Austen McDaniel, known on trail as PI. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because we’ve been reading it off at the end of every episode for years, as Austen is one of our Chuck Norris Award-winning Patreon supporters. But in addition to being a longtime patron, Austen is also one hell of a backpacker, having completed the Triple Crown in three consecutive years. He approached his first thru-hike as prepared as anyone we’ve ever talked to, hitting the Appalachian Trail with a six-pound base weight after years of fine-tuning his setup on various shakedown hikes. He walks us through how he’s managed to shave additional ounces and grams off his pack, shares some fun ultralight hacks, and offers tips for making cold soaking suck less. Of course, we also dive deep into his three thru-hikes. Beyond hiking, Austen gives us a glimpse into his life as a professional tennis instructor, if he's seducing moms at the country club, and how he managed to squeeze in some disc golf in various trail towns during his CDT trek. We wrap the show with news of an massive new FKT on New Zealand’s Te Araroa, a breakdown of just how much Irish heritage runs through our DNA, including some truly deranged family tree math from Chaunce, the triple crown of food combinations, and possibly the greatest limerick in the history of the written language. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Purple Rain Skirts: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off at purplerainskirts.com. Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . AG1: Get your free $79 gift at . [divider] Interview with Austen McDaniel Time stamps & Questions 00:06:27 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:11:32 - Introducing Austen 00:13:40 - At what age could you serve over 100 miles per hour? 00:17:43 - Who’s the GOAT in tennis? 00:18:20 - Tell us about disc golf 00:20:20 - What were the best courses you played on the CDT? 00:21:54 - How much is aiming versus distance? 00:23:01 - What is the distance like on a par 5 course? 00:26:01 - How did you get into hiking? 00:27:40 - Did you see any wild hogs while waterfall hunting? 00:33:30 - Discussion about preparing for thru-hiking 00:35:00 - What were your Big 3 for the AT in 2022? 00:37:05 - Did you test any items that you didn’t end up liking? 00:39:17 - Why do you prefer sleeping bags over quilts? 00:41:25 - Did you find any interesting ways to combine functionality of items? 00:45:55 - Do you have any other gear hacks? 00:49:00 - What are your go-to cold soaking meals? 00:50:10 - Spinning the Wheel 00:52:33 - What’s your trail name? 00:54:50 - What about ultralight makes it worth it to you? 00:56:30 - Discussion about AT pace and budget 01:00:30 - Tell us about your goal of hiking three trails in three years 01:02:10 - What does your tennis instructing work look like? 01:03:20 - Did you coach interesting people at country clubs? 01:05:30 - How did you decide to hike southbound on the CDT? 01:10:00 - Discussion about fires on the PCT in 2024 01:14:18 - Tell us about the loneliness on the CDT 01:20:20 - Would you change anything if you hiked the CDT again? 01:21:30 - Anything else to share about the CDT? 01:25:25 - What was your budget for the 3 hikes? 01:27:40 - How did the PCT hike compare to the CDT? 01:30:00 - Do you have tips for dealing with loneliness on trail? 01:31:05 - How was the air quality on the PCT? 01:34:37 - Discussion about ultralight versus mileage 01:37:45 - What were your other takeaways from the PCT? 01:42:08 - What advice do you have for someone who wants to Triple Crown in three years? 01:43:47 - Fuck Marry Kill: AT, PCT, CDT 01:46:18 - What’s next for you? 01:48:28 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking? Segments Trek Propaganda by Katie Jackson by Kendra Slagter QOTD: Does either of your ginger-ness come from Irish heritage? Do you celebrate St Patrick's Day? Triple Crown of food combinations Listener Voicemail Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/35705465

10+ International Hikes and a Continuous Yo-Yo of the AT and Long Trail with Curtis Himstedt (BPR #296) 03/10/2025

10+ International Hikes and a Continuous Yo-Yo of the AT and Long Trail with Curtis Himstedt (BPR #296) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Curtis Himstedt, known on trail as Easily Forgotten. Easily Forgotten’s backpacking resume is bananas. A partial list of his adventures includes the Annapurna Circuit, Pembrokeshire Coastal Path in Wales, the GR10, Tour du Mont Blanc, Yorkshire Dales High Way, South Downs Way, and Cotswold Way in England, the Triple Crown in the U.S., the Tahoe Rim Trail, and a continuous yo-yo of the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail between 2023-2024. Curtis takes us through these treks, especially the ones we haven't covered on the podcast before, shares how his first divorce inspired him to get into thru-hiking, explains why he feels more like himself on trail than in “the real world,” and gives us a preview of his upcoming adventures as he continues trekking strong into his 60s. We wrap the show with news of a major gear retailer accused of ties to forced labor, a new navigation app you’ll want on your radar for 2025, the triple crown of the worst fashion trends, a debate on how to inform someone of their LNT violation, what we’d replace our hands with if given the choice, and much more. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . [divider] Interview with Curtis Himstedt aka Easily Forgotten Time stamps & Questions 00:06:10 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:09:45 - Introducing Curtis 00:11:20 - What was your weight loss story? 00:12:55 - How did you get into long distance backpacking? 00:14:53 - How old were you when you were in Boy Scouts? 00:16:57 - Is there a part of you that’s grateful to your initial divorce for getting you into hiking? 00:19:00 - What learning lessons did you have on the Annapurna Circuit? 00:23:00 - What was life like on your farm? 00:24:00 - From an engineer’s perspective, what was hiking the West Highland Way like? 00:27:05 - Would you recommend the West Highland Way to others? 00:28:52 - Has it ever backfired on you to not plan too much of your hikes? 00:30:40 - Do you feel more comfortable when hiking long trails? 00:32:20 - What advice do you have for someone about to get married? 00:35:00 - Discussion about planning international hikes 00:35:44 - Tell us more about the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path 00:37:33 - Tell us about the Grey Wolf Loop 00:40:20 - Tell us more about hiking in England 00:42:56 - Tell us more about the GR10 00:49:05 - Tell us about hiking the AT in 2018 00:54:50 - Tell us about hiking the PCT in 2019 00:57:08 - How did you like the Oregon Coast Trail? 01:00:10 - At what point do you start planning future hikes? 01:01:50 - Do you feel a sense of fulfillment exploring new trails each year? 01:04:20 - Tell us about the South Downs Way 01:05:48 - What were your top 3 favorite trails in the UK? 01:08:50 - Tell us about the Kerry Way 01:10:53 - Discussion about the Portuguese Camino 01:12:15 - What does your gear look like today? 01:15:01 - Tell us about your hiking in the Azores 01:22:25 - Discussion about not planning lodging on European trails 01:23:28 - Tell us about the Cinque Terre 01:25:25 - Tell us about the Via Degli Dei 01:26:55 - Tell us about your MEGA GAME LT^2 adventure 01:33:00 - Story about Curtis’s father 01:38:25 - You don’t like FKTs but you like endurance hiking? 01:39:42 - What’s the northern section like in the winter? 01:42:50 - How many miles are you typically hiking in a day? 01:44:20 - What about the AT do you love so much? 01:46:05 - What do your next 4 years of hiking look like? 01:49:20 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda by Katie Jackson by Katie Jackson QOTD: If you had to replace your hands with something else, what would you pick? Triple Crown of the worst fashion trends Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/35545210

8 Tips for 2025 Appalachian Trail Hikers (BPR #295) 03/03/2025

8 Tips for 2025 Appalachian Trail Hikers (BPR #295) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek and brought to you by LMNT, Chaunce and Badger are serving up tips for this year’s class of Appalachian Trail thru-hikers. We’re covering everything from social dynamics and budgeting to mental prep, diet, why you should document your hike, some listener submission tips, and much more. We also give a rundown of advice from previous episodes in case you want to dig even deeper into getting ready for the Appalachian Trail. Whether you’re hitting the AT this year, planning for a future trek, or know someone who is, this episode is for you. Or for them. We wrap the show with the latest on the mass layoffs hitting National Park and Forest Service employees, an update from our friends at Rebuild Hot Springs Area on how the funds raised through the Badger Sponsorship are helping with recovery efforts (plus ways you can still get involved), what our trail names would be if they had to be food-centric, and the Triple Crown of Backpacker Radio starter-pack episodes. LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at . Timeline: Get 33% off your first order at . [divider] Panel with Zach and Chaunce Time stamps & Questions 00:09:50 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:13:30 - Introducing Zach and Chaunce 00:18:00 - Tips from past AT episodes, and 00:30:30 - Chaunce’s Tip #1: Don’t rush to find your trail family 00:35:15 - Zach’s Tip #1: Document your hike 00:40:35 - Listener Submission #1: Your shit will dry 00:41:28 - Chaunce’s Tip #2: Don’t take things too seriously 00:43:33 - Zach’s Tip #2: Electrolytes 00:48:55 - Listener Submission #2: Don’t overplan and don’t rush 00:51:47 - Chaunce’s Tip #3: Add ⅓ to ½ over your estimated budget 01:03:20 - Zach’s Tip #3: Mentally prepare for your thru-hike 01:12:25 - Chaunce’s Honorable Mention: Train for downhills 01:17:00 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking? Segments Trek Propaganda: by Katie Jackson QOTD: If your trail name had to be a food, what would it be and how would you earn it? Triple Crown of BPR starter pack episodes Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/35511135

Dog Mushing, 20+ Years in the Navy, and the Triple Crown with Ben "Ginger Ballz" Vaughan (BPR #294) 02/24/2025

Dog Mushing, 20+ Years in the Navy, and the Triple Crown with Ben "Ginger Ballz" Vaughan (BPR #294) In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek and brought to you by Topo Athletic, we’re joined by Ben Vaugh, known on trail as Ginger Ballz. Ben is a Navy veteran, accomplished thru-hiker, and currently works as a dog musher, a topic Chaunce and Badger had way too much fun diving into. Ginger Ballz takes us through his transition from the military to thru-hiking, why he recommends it to fellow service members, and the parallels between the two. He shares stories from his hikes of the Triple Crown trails, the Hayduke, Superior Hiking Trail, and Long Trail. We also get a deep dive into his current gig managing a dog mushing and guiding company in Colorado, working with Iditarod-winning pups. He breaks down the process of training huskies for guiding, the biggest challenges of mushing, and the unique bond he shares with his dogs. We close out the show with a feature on a man who thru-hiked the AT while legally blind, a debate on whether airplanes have keys, why Zach is no longer allowed to enjoy pho, Chaunce’s honey grease, the Triple Crown of abbreviated insults, and more. Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKWINTER15” at . Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at . [divider] Interview with Ben “Ginger Ballz” Vaughan Time stamps & Questions 00:05:12 - Reminders: , , and ! 00:08:05 - Introducing Ben 00:10:00 - Tell us about your Navy experience 00:12:10 - What’s it like chasing down pirates? 00:16:06 - Tell us about transitioning between the Navy and thru-hiking 00:19:00 - How did the AT get on your radar? 00:20:38 - Did your military background help you go into the AT with confidence? 00:22:30 - Did you do thru-hiking specific research? 00:24:02 - Did you feel your purpose restored when you started the AT? 00:24:30 - Do you think thru-hikers could succeed in the military? 00:26:20 - Tell us about the Kona Ironman? 00:28:20 - Tell us about the Navy culture in Coronado 00:31:15 - Did you know right away that thru-hiking was for you? 00:34:10 - How did you feel upon finishing the AT? 00:36:00 - What other traits did you get from the Navy that aided you in thru-hiking? 00:39:44 - Tell us about going from the AT to the PCT 00:42:50 - What was it like adjusting to the high snow year on the PCT? 00:48:00 - Can you completely recover from frostbite? 00:50:00 - Did you freak out when you were stuck in a blizzard? 00:51:55 - Was it fun seeing the Sierra in a different season? 00:53:55 - When did you decide to complete the Triple Crown? 00:57:10 - What was the difference in reactions you got on the CDT versus the AT? 00:58:14 - What did your Big 3 look like on the CDT? 01:00:45 - How does a snowy Smokies compare to the snowy Sierras? 01:05:00 - Tell us about hiking the Hayduke 01:09:45 - Tell us about dropping your pack down a canyon 01:12:20 - Tell us about hiking the Superior Hiking Trail 01:15:12 - Tell us about hiking the Long Trail 01:17:00 - How did you end up in Alaska dog mushing? 01:19:30 - What are the dogs like in their off time? 01:22:00 - What does it take to win the Iditarod? 01:23:10 - How do you train the dog to do what it needs to do? 01:24:50 - How can you tell if one of the dogs is getting tired? 01:26:10 - What do the dogs eat? 01:29:15 - Story from the Iditarod 01:31:40 - How does the tour operation work in CO? 01:33:00 - What types of commands do the dogs know? 01:35:10 - Who are your dogs? 01:39:45 - What do you pack for a backcountry dog mushing trip? 01:40:50 - What is your bond like with the dogs? 01:42:00 - How long can the dogs run for? 01:43:40 - Are Huskies all not great off leash? 01:47:05 - Ben is hiring! 01:49:40 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack? Segments Trek Propaganda by Andrew Neylon by the Editors QOTD: Do airplanes have keys? Thing of the Week Triple Crown of short insults Gross or Not Gross Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy and . (and please leave us a review)! Find us on , , and . to get bonus content. Follow , , , and on Instagram. Follow , and on YouTube. Follow on Tik Tok. Our theme song is by . A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Mud Tom, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson. /episode/index/show/backpackerradio/id/35388770

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