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In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by Goodr, we are joined by Caet Cash.  Caet first discovered backpacking back in 2014 and has been on an absolute tear ever since.  We chat about why she prefers to hike SOBO, including some SOBO specific elements of both the AT and PCT, her insane list of peakbagging feats in the Adirondacks and southern Appalachians, redlining (aka mapping) the Smokies, and much more.  Caet also details how her backcountry goals have shifted since being diagnosed with Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, how she manages EDS, and why she thinks it's important to be vocal about this chronic condition.   We wrap the show with an overview of our AT road trip thus far including Chaunce's absurd sun burn, a triple crown of emotional high points on trail, a listener voicemail, and a listener educates us on the Philmont Poop Rating. Goodr: Use code “backpacker15” for 15% off at goodr.com/backpacker15. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for 10% off at greenbelly.co.   Interview with Caet Cash Caet's Instagram Article about Caet & the SB6K Time stamps & Questions 00:04:32 - QOTD: What’s been the best part of the road trip thus far? 00:14:53 - Introducing Caet 00:15:10 - Discussion about Caet’s trail name. 00:16:03 - What’s the origin of your trail name? 00:18:37 - How mad are you going to be about Zach’s pronunciation of Appalachian? 00:19:02 - Do you remember where you first met Zach? 00:21:07 - Tell us your backpacking resume. 00:22:45 - Tell us about the Northville Placid Trail. 00:24:26 - What’s the best season to do the Northville Placid Trail? 00:25:45 - Do most people start in Northville? 00:26:00 - What type of wildlife do you see? 00:27:05 - Have you done any of the Finger Lakes Trail? 00:27:52 - What put the Appalachian Trail on your radar and why did you choose southbound? 00:29:19 - Was your marathon pain related to your future diagnosis? 00:30:10 - Anything else you want to share from the AT? 00:32:25 - Chaunce’s story. 00:34:52 - At one point did you feel like you got into the hiking rhythm? 00:38:20 - Does any part of the trail feel hard after you’ve completed the Whites? 00:39:30 - Anything else you want to share from the CT? 00:40:36 - Tell us about connecting your footsteps on the PCT. 00:43:54 - How did you decide to go southbound on the PCT? 00:44:30 - How did you handle sleeping alone? 00:46:35 - How many times have you seen bears at night? 00:47:30 - Discussion of purism differences between the AT and PCT. 00:48:35 - When did you finish the PCT and what was the Sierra like? 00:50:15 - Tell us about what you thought of the PCT views and scenery. 00:52:02 - Do you prefer the scenery of the AT? 00:53:20 - Do you think list-making is more of a personality trait of people in the Northeast? 00:54:11 - Tell us about the South Beyond 6,000 grid. 00:55:36 - Can you give us more detail on the SB6K guidelines? 00:57:14 - What’s your strategy in accomplishing the SB6K? 00:58:14 - How do you hike all of them in a month? 00:59:25 - What are your top 3 favorite peaks from the SB6K? 01:00:49 - Tell us about the Adirondack 46. 01:02:03 - How many of the SB6K peaks are accessible from or on the AT? 01:03:03 - Have you done Mt. Rogers? 01:03:47 - If there’s no view, is the appeal strictly accomplishing the list? 01:04:20 - Has anyone else done the SB6K grid? 01:07:02 - Tell us about redlining the Smokies.  01:09:12 - How much do you have to plan for a redlining project versus winging it? 01:09:41 - Are there any resources for helping someone plan a redline? 01:10:45 - How long did it take you to redline the Smokies? 01:11:44 - Tell us about your hip injury. 01:16:01 - Tell us about Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. 01:18:19 - Have you ever dislocated your shoulder? 01:19:01 - What differentiates this disease from someone with other flexibility or hypermobility? 01:19:41 - How do you cope with or reduce chronic pain? 01:22:22 - How has EDS modified your future plans or goals? 01:24:29 - How common is EDS? 01:25:51 - What else in your lifestyle has changed to pursue your health goals? 01:27:18 - Has it been tough to recalibrate your goals? 01:28:28 - Did you ever wonder if your pain was similar to other hikers’? 01:29:58 - Would cycling be a possible activity for you? 01:31:52 - Tell us about your sister and hiking with her. 01:32:55 - What’s your big 3 these days? 01:34:14 - Hype up van life for us. 01:36:18 - What do you want to share about guiding? 01:37:12 - How did you like working with Jennifer Pharr Davis? 01:38:00 - Anything else you want to share? 01:39:08 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Woman Rescued After Falling Headfirst Into Pit Toilet Trying to Retrieve Phone by Penina Satlow Triple Crown of emotional high points on trail Listener Voicemail Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound g uy@Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by YouTube sensation, Darwin.  We learn all about Darwin's rise to fame, including the turning point from when he went from a novice content creator to a full-blown trail celebrity, his advice to aspiring YouTube trail personalities, and why he ultimately fell out of love with the platform. We also learn about Darwin's new media company, Outdoor Evolution, and the plethora of projects currently coming from OE, and what lies ahead. We wrap the show by sharing the news of a gent who's about to finish walking around the world with his pup and we opine on whether we'd rather have a boring, stupid, or ugly offspring. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for 10% off at greenbelly.co. Interview with Darwin Darwin's Youtube Channel Darwin Goodbye Trek Article + Goodbye Video Outdoor Evolution Time stamps & Questions 00:04:25 - QOTD: Would you rather have a boring, stupid, or ugly kid? 00:06:57 - BPR Announcements: The Trek’s Featured TikTok Personality  00:08:08 - Introducing Darwin 00:08:37 - What was your life pre-dirtbag adventuring? 00:09:52 - Was there one trip you saw as the tipping point to altering your lifestyle? 00:13:56 - Tell us about the timeline of leaving home. 00:14:35 - Tell us about the initial intentions of the trail. 00:16:50 - Do you think leaving the AT and returning later prepared you for future trips? 00:18:47 - When does the Youtube channel enter the picture? 00:22:46 - Was there a particular moment when the channel became something you thought you could make a career out of? 00:25:27 - Tell us about living and working in Albuquerque. 00:26:45 - What’s the strangest hobby you’ve gotten into? 00:28:20 - Tell us about owning a restaurant. 00:29:10 - Are you a big fan of the blues? 00:30:04 - What are the top three things you would never dabble in? 00:31:40 - Tell us about cycling and bike-packing. 00:36:04 - Why do you think your bike-packing videos didn’t take off? 00:36:55 - Is adventure touring more trail or more road? 00:38:58 - How is your injury affecting your upcoming plans? 00:38:33 - Do you mind if I ask how old you are? 00:40:07 - What was the next big hike after the AT? 00:41:03 - How did you like the Pinhoti Trail? 00:42:48 - What kind of miles are you usually hiking per day? 00:44:42 - How did your channel interface with your PCT hike? 00:48:50 - Discussion about the turning point in popularity for the channel. 00:52:43 - Can you elaborate on the closure you sought on the CDT? 01:00:56 - If you had any general advice to someone interested in growing a Youtube channel, what would you tell them? 01:05:24 - Did you develop a thicker skin toward internet comments as you made more videos? 01:09:08 - Tell us about Outdoor Evolution. 01:14:58 - How do you decide how to allocate your time? 01:16:45 - Tell us about the structure of OE. 01:17:55 - Do you and your wife plan to have any children? 01:21:35 - Tell us more about current OE projects. 01:26:25 - How much are you looking to fundraise for your public lands series? 01:27:36 - How big is your production team? 01:28:58 - Give us a sneak peak of each episode. 01:30:01 - Tell us about the other upcoming projects you have going on this year. 01:33:22 - Anything else you want to share? 01:35:12 - Thanks! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Tom Turcich (and His Pup) Set to Complete 7-Year Around-the-World Walk Next Month by Clay Bonnyman Evans Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail by Clay Bonnyman Evans Triple Crown of unlikely spaces where humans become savagely territorial Impromptu News Story Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Carly Moree.  Carly is a thru-hiker, the co-author of Pacific Crest Trials, an OG Writer at The Trek, entrepreneur and a long time friend.  We chat about her transition from the cushy world of finance to backpacking, her personal pitfalls of getting into a relationship on the AT, some hilarious hallucinations during her JMT FKT attempt, and learn all about her new guiding company, Rocky Mountain Hiking Company. We wrap the show with a brief overview of some of the top day hikes on the AT, some more details of our upcoming road trip, and a dad joke of the week. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for off at greenbelly.co. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “thetrek10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  [divider] Photo credit: "Stephanie Weezer" (@stephlotus_ on IG) Interview with Carly Moree Carly's Instagram Rocky Mountain Hiking Company Rocky Mountain Hiking Company Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:24 - QOTD: If you married to yourself, what would be the reason for the divorce? 00:05:54 - QOTD 2: What’s the correct amount to tip for pickup orders? 00:13:14 - BPR Announcements: Asheville Meetup at Hi-Wire Brewing May 11, 6:30pm, Trail Days: scavenger hunt, limited edition t-shirts 00:14:20 - Introducing Carly 00:16:08 - Tell us about your introduction into the world of thru-hiking. 00:18:15 - What’s your trail name origin story? 00:19:19 - Why don’t you want to date on trail anymore? 00:20:39 - What attracts you to someone while on trail? 00:22:48 - Tell us about getting Lyme disease. 00:25:44 - Where did you go after the AT? 00:26:41 - Tell us about the epiphany you had about the direction your career was going. 00:28:33 - Give us an example of a crazy moment from your finance job. 00:32:04 - Tell us about the transition from your job to the AT? 00:34:27 - Tell us about deciding to hike the PCT after the AT? 00:35:30 - Did you get any grief for skipping Pennsylvania? 00:36:50 - Discussion about big mile days on the PCT. 00:37:49 - What changes did you make when deciding to date a second person? 00:38:52 - Is there anything else you want to share from the PCT? 00:41:01 - Do you feel like you were drawn to Jennifer Pharr Davis for any other reasons? 00:44:13 - Discussion about co-authoring Pacific Crest Trials. 00:47:25 - Tell us how co-authoring the book has helped your dating life. 00:47:58 - Discussion about Reddit AMA. 00:49:38 - What was your life like after the PCT? 00:51:42 - Why did you only do Mount Sanitas? 00:52:35 - Tell us about starting your PCT FKT attempt. 00:54:44 - Was it weird that you were both going for the FKT? 00:55:42 - Tell us about transitioning from the PCT FKT to the JMT FKT? 00:57:48 - The FKT was a really important moment in your life, right? 00:58:53 - Doesn’t going through a breakup during lockdown suck? 01:01:00 - Discussion about training for the Grand Canyon run. 01:01:55 - What’s your hiking pace? 01:02:11 - What’s your aggressive hiking pace? 01:03:04 - Discussion about training for the JMT FKT. 01:04:33 - Did you plan the hike around a good weather window? 01:06:24 - Tell us the fun facts of the hike. 01:07:05 - What are the hallucinations and did you realize you were hallucinating? 01:14:03 - How do you know what you thought was real was actually real? 01:16:02 - Discussion about the end of the FKT attempt. 01:17:26 - Why do you think you couldn’t feel anything until you decided to end the attempt? 01:17:58 - Discussion about getting off the trail. 01:20:38 - Discussion about getting lost and deciding to press SOS. 01:22:39 - Discussion about the SAR suitors. 01:26:18 - You had to pay for the SOS rescue? 01:27:13 - What did the rescue cost? 01:27:55 - You seemed way too comfortable with hallucinating - were you scared? 01:30:18 - Do you have any advice for the Tahoe Rim Trail? 01:32:41 - Anything else from the Tahoe Rim Trail? 01:33:40 - Tell us about your company. 01:35:40 - When did you start the company? 01:37:11 - Who is the target market for your guided hikes? 01:38:37 - How many trips have you guided so far? 01:39:08 - What are some of the challenges of running a guiding company? 01:40:28 - Who’s the other guide? 01:42:25 - When is your Death Valley trip? 01:43:25 - What has been the biggest surprise in starting the company? 01:45:20 - How does hiring and paying guides work? 01:47:25 - Is it just a three person team right now? 01:48:48 - Tell us about the workshops. 01:50:00 - Tell us about the coaching element of the company. 01:53:30 - Anything else we should know about Rocky Mountain Hiking Company? 01:54:05 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Top 5 Appalachian Trail Day Hikes with Unforgettable Views by Amber and Joshua Niven Dad Joke of the Week Roan Mountain, Ghosts, and Supernatural Stories Mail Bag 5 Star Review Book Update [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we are joined by author, mountaineer, and keynote speaker, Dr. Jon Kedrowski.  Dr. Jon's list of accomplishments are staggeringly long, including sleeping at the summit of all the Colorado 14'ers, multiple Everest summits, playing D-1college basketball at Valparaiso, guiding and befriending Mike Posner, and much more.  We catch Dr. Jon very off-guard with a well-timed, fuck, marry, kill, we learn about the standout geography features of each of the Colorado mountain ranges, and what it's like to encounter death on Everest. We wrap the show with a triple crown of minor injuries that hurt like fuck and we bring back a listener favorite segment — would you rather.   Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for off at greenbelly.co. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Interview with Dr. Jon Kedrowski Dr. Jon's Instagram Dr. Jon's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:04:41 - QOTD: What are you most excited about for Trail Days? 00:11:13 - BPR Announcements: Trail Days Road Trip, Asheville Meetup May 11, 6:30pm, subscribe to be alerted of new BPR episodes! 00:14:30 - Introducing Dr. Jon Kedrowski 00:15:50 - Tell us your mountaineering origin story. 00:19:08 - Were you the youngest person to hike all of Colorado’s 14’ers? 00:21:25 - How did you get to trailheads during high school? 00:22:24 - Tell us about being a geography professor. 00:24:20 - Was it tough to pursue mountaineering before it was a money-making profession? 00:27:30 - What’s it like to be a part of March Madness? 00:28:23 - What’s the overlap between being a collegiate basketball player and a successful mountaineer? 00:29:29 - For a backpacker, what’s an applicable mantra or philosophy you go by? 00:32:20 - Tell us about the CDT and CT from a geographic perspective. 00:34:48 - How do you compare the San Juans and the Collegiate Peaks? 00:36:41 - If you had to pick one Colorado mountain range for the rest of your life’s adventuring, which would it be? 00:38:20 - Fuck, Marry, Kill: Colorado mountain ranges. 00:40:24 - Do you actually sleep at the top of a mountain? 00:42:19 - What do you do if there’s a storm while you’re sleeping? 00:43:38 - Your tent got struck by lightning? 00:45:38 - Do you lead clients up Everest now? 00:46:56 - Are you in Mike Posner’s new music video? 00:48:39 - Tell us a wild story from hiking with Mike Posner? 00:50:31 - What’s considered good water once you become a snob about it? 00:52:00 - Did you ever not want to get in the water on video? 00:53:03 - Is there one place that stood out to you related to stargazing? 00:56:21 - Do you ever follow established routes or mainly find your own? 00:59:30 - Let’s talk about Everest! 01:01:02 - What’s it like when there’s a tragedy on Everest? 01:03:20 - What went wrong in 2012? 01:08:02 - What’s the atmosphere like when you return to the high camp? 01:08:35 - What’s your personal mental state like when you have to leave someone behind? 01:10:40 - Is there any mental prep work for encountering people who will perish on Everest? 01:13:20 - At one point will Everest become a trail of bodies? 01:15:58 - Is there part of you that gets freaked out going back year after year? 01:17:32 - What would a training program for Everest look like? 01:19:14 - What training could someone do in the gym? 01:21:21 - Tell us about mountaineering gear.  01:23:22 - How much do those sleeping bags and down suits weigh? 01:24:03 - What does your pack typically weigh? 01:25:43 - What size is your pack? 01:26:20 - Tell us about your “no off days” philosophy. 01:27:40 - Are you physically preparing every single day or are you risking burnout? 01:28:42 - How old are you? 01:31:28 - Have you thought about retiring for two weeks like Tom Brady? 01:33:02 - Is part of you wanting to do a calendar Triple? 01:34:05 - What’s your go-to junk food? 01:34:23 - Get a prize for buying Dr. Jon’s new book! 01:36:34 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Authorities Seek Help Identifying Body Found on Springer Mountain by Kelly Floro Triple Crown of minor injuries that hurt like fuck Would You Rather? Mail Bag 5 Star Review Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Hazel Platt known on trail as Platypus.  In addition to thru-hikes of the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Northwest Trail, Hazel also serves as the Volunteer Engagement Associate for the PCTA.  Hazel is also a queer/trans hiker, going by the he/they pronouns.  We go deep in this interview, learning about Hazel's emotional journey of coming out as a trans hiker during the height of lockdown in the less than welcoming environment of a conservative community in West Virginia.  We also learn about the differences of Hazel's thru-hikes, where they had come out as queer prior to the AT, and trans shortly before embarking on the Pacific Northwest Trail.  We chat about Hazel's love for off-trail hiking, including the highlights and lowlights of navigating on the PNT.  We conclude the interview with an overview of Hazel's work at the PCTA, the importance volunteers play for the Pacific Crest Trail, and what the future beholds for the non-profit. We wrap the show with a check-in from MG, Backpacker Radio's Sponsored hiker, as she gets ready for her SOBO AT thru-hike, we learn about a gentleman hiking the AT carrying a leafblower, and a half-baked patent-pending about how to improve nalgenes. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for off at greenbelly.co. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Interview with Hazel “Platypus” Platt Hazel’s Instagram Pacific Crest Trail Association Website PCTA Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:45 - QOTD: How was the Denver Hiker Trash meetup? 00:13:05 - BPR Announcements: Trail Days Road Trip, Asheville Meetup May 11, 6:30pm 00:15:15 - Introducing Hazel 00:15:45 - What’s your backpacking resume? 00:16:42 - What caused you not to finish the Long Trail? 00:17:19 - Did you feel in over your head starting the AT? 00:18:10 - Any notable stories from the AT? 00:19:40 - What was the inspiration to become sober? 00:20:40 - What would you like to share about your coming out process? 00:23:04 - What was the reception like in West Virginia or online? 00:25:35 - Can you walk us through what it was like when the pandemic started for you? 00:29:12 - Tell us about your tech career prior to hiking. 00:33:08 - Did the cloud around gender dysphoria lift at all after coming out? 00:35:35 - Can you speak to some of the common cultural challenges you’re inundated with? 00:40:43 - What comes up for you when someone gets your pronouns wrong? 00:41:47 - What was your experience and reception like on the Pacific Northwest Trail? 00:46:06 - Was there a difference in your hiking experience from the AT to the PNT? 00:48:50 - What was it like going from the community of the AT to the isolation of the PNT? 00:51:04 - Did you see any grizzlies? 00:51:42 - Tell us about the time you got lost. 00:56:54 - Do you know how much more of the trail has been developed in recent years? 00:58:43 - Can you speak to the community you found on trail compared to what you expected? 01:01:24 - Are there places you’d suggest someone look for community prior to hiking? 01:04:15 - Discussion about history. 01:10:40 - Tell us a story that encapsulates the bigger picture history of the AT. 01:13:30 - Tell us a fun fact about plants. 01:15:21 - Tell Zach the story about George Washington, land surveying, and the Fairfax line. 01:20:14 - Tell us about your role with the PCTA. 01:21:20 - Can you tell us more about the role volunteers play for the PCTA? 01:22:56 - Can you speak to some of the biggest challenges of working with volunteers? 01:26:37 - What is your vision for more inclusive programs and messaging within the PCTA? 01:30:18 - How do you see yourself accomplishing your own goals within your work? 01:32:22 - Do you have any parting thoughts to share? 01:36:55 - Thank you! SEGMENTS MG Check-In Trek Propaganda The Colorado Trail Guide: Logistics by Kelly Floro Man Hiking the AT with a Leafblower: Mascot Hikers and Why They Do It by Bloodhound Trail News What is a hike? Patent Pending One Minute Gear Review Plant, Child, and Pupdate Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Nika "Early Bird" Meyers.  Nika is a backpacking badass.  Not only is she a triple crowner, but Early Bird has set a pair of speed records, including the unsupported FKT on the Long Trail and the self-supported FKT on the Colorado Trail, which she set last year with a time of 9 days 14 hours, and 19 minutes (keep in mind, this takes most people a full month).  We get a full chronology of Nika's backpacking career, when and where the idea of attempting FKTs first entered her world, her background in competitive skiing, the most important lesson she's learned when attempting thru-hikes, her incredible artwork, and much more. We wrap the show with a series of Elise-centric segments (as she's sitting in for Chaunce today), including how she's preparing, what gear she's using, how she's budgeting for the CDT, and much more.  We also chat about some 4-6 day backpacking trips in the West to put on your bucket list, how thru-hiking has changed our lives, and we get a surprise visit from Jabba at the end of our interview. [divider] LISTEN Download this episode. [divider] Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  [divider] Interview with Nika “Early Bird” Meyers Nika's Website Nika's Instagram Nika's Art Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:05:11 - QOTD: What are your hiking plans for this summer? 00:07:27 - BPR Announcements: Trail Days Road Trip, Asheville Meetup May 11, 6:30pm 00:08:30 - Introducing Nika 00:08:56 - How did you get your trail name? 00:10:33 - What’s relevant in your background before you started thru-hiking? 00:13:51 - Did you know right away after the Long Trail that you would do more long trails? 00:15:35 - What kind of animals use the Long Trail as a migratory corridor? 00:16:34 - If you got to list one sport on your tombstone, what would it be? 00:17:23 - Take us from the Long Trail in 2012 to the PCT in 2014. 00:19:03 - How did you manage without your parent’s blessing for starting the PCT? 00:22:00 - How quickly did you hike the Long Trail and the PCT? 00:24:50 - How did you get interested in FKTs? 00:26:27 - Anything else you want to highlight from the PCT? 00:26:56 - What did you do after the PCT? 00:28:25 - What’s harder, a 50-mile day or dealing with high school kids? 00:29:34 - How did you get into environmental education to begin with? 00:32:11 - What was your lifestyle like living in the Cascades? 00:32:55 - Discussion about snow on the PCT. 00:33:40 - What’s your snow hiking technique? 00:35:08 - Did you do a lot of peaks in the Cascades? 00:36:08 - Are you an adrenaline junkie? 00:36:55 - Tell us about the CDT. 00:37:20 - What’s your pack weight like for these hikes? 00:38:54 - What else do you want to share about the CDT? 00:41:54 - Did you feel the same way going from the CDT to AT that you did PCT to CDT? 00:45:07 - What are the biggest differences between those two trails? 00:47:10 - What’s your take on the AT as your last Triple Crown trail? 00:49:02 - Was it difficult to find a way to hike by yourself? 00:51:00 - Was this pink blazing or banana blazing? 00:52:24 - Tell us your poop story. 00:57:41 - Anything notable from the Rim2Rim2Rim? 00:58:23 - What’s the elevation change in the Grand Canyon? 00:58:40 - What’s the R2R2R FKT? 01:00:28 - How fast did you hike the Arizona Trail? 01:00:47 - When did you get the idea of setting FKTs? 01:02:56 - How did you bridge the gap between regimented schedules and having fun? 01:05:56 - How do you plan an FKT without planning daily mileage? 01:08:14 - What was your sleep regimen like? 01:09:00 - Discussion about talking with other hikers while pursuing an FKT. 01:11:22 - Did you utilize caffeine at all? 01:13:42 - Did your appetite ever get back to normal during the Colorado Trail FKT? 01:15:12 - Did you crave anything during an FKT? 01:15:55 - Do you think this will change your food planning for future FKTs? 01:16:42 - Is any part of an FKT Type I fun? 01:18:02 - Do you get anxious about hiking in the middle of the night? 01:19:11 - What’s the time difference between the Long Trail and Colorado Trail FKTs? 01:21:58 - Do you get antsy while waiting for storms to pass? 01:22:48 - Did finishing in better condition have more to do with your training or the terrain? 01:24:08 - Tell us about your art. 01:27:37 - Tell us about the watercolor t-shirt. 01:29:10 - If you could pick one piece to display in your house, which would it be? 01:30:13 - Are a lot of pieces commissioned? 01:30:45 - Where can people catch up with you? 01:31:43 - What’s next for you? 01:32:54 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Nika ‘Early Bird’ Meyers Sets a New Self-Supported Colorado Trail FKT by Owen Eigenbrot How Has Thru-Hiking Changed Your Life? Hikers Share Their Stories (Part 1) by Penina Satlow Pre-Trail Q&A with Elise Avenza Maps Triple Crown of non-obvious thru-hike prep things Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Linnea Delucchi, known on trail as Otter.  Otter is a 2017 PCT thru-hiker, has a Masters in Adventure Education, and now serves as the Assistant Director at New Treks, an organization that teaches outdoor education to underprivileged youth.  This convo covers a lot of ground, including the cognitive effects of spending time in nature and hiking specifically (and how wearing headphones could potentially negatively impact that), we get an overview of some Denver-based non-profits focused on the outdoors- including an in-depth work of Linnea's organization, and Linnea blesses us with an all-time poop story from her PCT thru-hike.  We wrap the show with a rapid fire Q&A with The Trek's new intern, Rachel, we do a triple crown of things people complain about as they get older, and Chaunce reveals herself as an Oscars slap truther.   Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Greenbelly: Use code “trek2022” for off at greenbelly.co. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.    Interview with Linnea “Otter” Delucchi Linnea’s Instagram New Treks Donate to New Treks Time stamps & Questions 00:04:20 - QOTD: Where were you when the news broke of Will Smith slapping Chris Rock? 00:09:25 - BPR Announcements: Asheville Meetup Hi-Wire Brewing RAD Beer Garden, May 11, 6:30pm 00:11:25 - Introducing Linnea 00:12:40 - Tell us your outdoor background. 00:14:23 - If you had to pick one outdoor sport, what would you pick? 00:15:10 - How long have you lived in Colorado? 00:15:54 - Tell us about graduate school. 00:16:37 - What direction did you think your career would go as an undergraduate? 00:17:28 - What’s the craziest thing about the brain? 00:18:40 - What’s the difference between people who hike with headphones and those who don’t? 00:19:28 - Does it matter what you’re listening to? 00:20:27 - Tell us about the study design. 00:22:23 - If you were going to run the study again, what variables would you change? 00:24:03 - What do you know about studies related to thru-hiking? 00:26:25 - Discussion about the impacts of technology in nature. 00:27:50 - Did you make a conscious decision not to listen to technology on the PCT? 00:30:15 - Tell us more about the brain. 00:33:50 - What do you think the cognitive benefits of a thru-hike are? 00:36:20 - How would you convince someone like Chaunce to get out in nature more? 00:39:25 - Do you think adrenaline junkies have less of a fear response? 00:42:25 - What turned you on to the PCT in the first place? 00:43:47 - Was backpacking a hard sell for you given the other sports you like? 00:45:42 - Do you have any crazy injury stories? 00:48:37 - Are there sports you won’t try? 00:49:35 - Tell us your poop story. 00:55:06 - Tell us about New Treks. 00:57:28 - What’s your role at New Treks? 00:58:20 - Do you notice different ways that the kids you work with interact with the outdoors? 01:01:18 - How do you get the kids excited for the activities? 01:02:40 - How much time do you spend with each group? 01:05:05 - How often do you see kids get really into the activities? 01:06:55 - Does one story stand out as the most meaningful? 01:09:22 - Is it tough to maintain a positive attitude? 01:12:03 - How long has New Treks been in existence? 01:12:20 - How do you start something like New Treks? 01:13:42 - Can you explain the funding side of New Treks? 01:17:04 - Tell us about the other Denver-based nonprofits you wrote about. 01:24:22 - Did you learn about these organizations recently or already know about them? 01:26:12 - Do you have advice for anyone interested in getting into outdoor education? 01:27:54 - What’s next for you? 01:28:48 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Eight Denver-Based Nonprofits Working in the Outdoors by Linnea Delucchi  7 Badass Woman Thru-Hikers Who Inspire Me to Hit the Trails by Anna McKinney Triple Crown of things people start to complain about as they get older Mail Bag New Intern Q&A 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by former Trek Vlogger, Sophia "Wheelz" Garber.   Wheelz was a member of the AT NOBO turned NOGO class of 2020, due to the pandemic- duh.  Her shot at redemption didn't have to wait too long, as Sophia ended up completing her mission to hike the AT the very next year.   We learn what it was like to be on trail during the early days of the pandemic, how it felt to deal with social media trolls when trying to decide whether to stay or go (and the challenge of even getting off trail), the role Sophia's recently deceased friend played in her motivation to hike, and how thru-hiking compared to Sophia's 4,000-mile bikepacking trip just a couple years prior. Things fall off the rails a bit in the segments, as we answer a couple of listener voicemail questions, do a triple crown of thru-hiker no-no's, and a listener accuses Chaunce of having stinky privates.   Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Interview with Sophia “Wheelz” Garber Sophia's Instagram Be the Sun Design Co Instagram Be the Sun Design Co Website First Descents Website Sophia’s Hiker? I Barely Know Her Shirt Time stamps & Questions 00:04:39 - QOTD: Are there more doors or wheels in the entire world? 00:10:41 - BPR Announcements: Asheville Meetup Location May 11, 6:30pm 00:11:55 - Introducing Sophia 00:13:48 - Tell us about your cross-country bike adventure. 00:15:12 - What group did you bike with? 00:17:02 - Awkward silence. 00:17:12 - What would you pick between being on foot or being on a bike? 00:20:28 - Did you know anyone going into the bike ride? 00:21:07 - What if someone wants to quit? 00:21:57 - What kind of roads did you bike on? 00:22:15 - Was there any carryover between your biking gear and your hiking gear? 00:23:55 - Were there trail names on the bike ride? 00:24:35 - What would your next long bike ride be? 00:25:08 - Did the ride feel rushed at all? 00:26:04 - At what point did you realize you wanted to do the AT? 00:29:40 - Tell us about starting the AT on March 15, 2020. 00:30:38 - Discussion about getting off trail. 00:33:40 - Tell us about being on the receiving end of social media comments? 00:36:25 - What were the vibes on trail before you got off? 00:39:02 - Did you know right away that you’d re-attempt the trail the next year? 00:41:02 - Tell us more about Cristal and fundraising for the Ulman House. 00:46:38 - What led you to working for the Ulman House? 00:49:37 - Have you heard of the program First Descents? 00:50:18 - What was your fundraising goal? 00:53:21 - Having started the trail twice, did you prepare any differently the second time? 00:54:01 - What did it feel like to do horrible climbs twice at the start of the AT? 00:55:12 - What was your experience vlogging on trail? 00:56:40 - What was your editing practice and how long did editing take? 00:58:10 - Did you ever get weird comments? 01:00:31 - How often did you hike alone? 01:03:00 - Tell us your poop story. 01:07:30 - Tell us about aqua blazing. 01:11:55 - What’s another not boring story? 01:14:35 - Tell us about your woodburning side hustle. 01:16:14 - Where can people find your site? 01:17:49 - Did you go to school for art? 01:18:20 - Discussion about stick and poke tattoos. 01:19:40 - Tell us about your upcoming hiking plans. 01:21:10 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Shaming Chaunce Trek Propaganda Thru-Hiking with a Partner? Save Weight (and Money) by Sharing Gear by Kelly Floro Listener Voicemails Triple Crown of thru-hiker no-no’s Mail Bag 5 Star Review Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Peter Bergman.  In a nutshell, Peter is the ultimate wildcard.  His hiking resume, which includes a completed section hike of the PCT and a cross country hike from his front door in Denver to Mt. of the Holy Cross- doesn't even begin to tell his story.  We learn about the life of an art professor, some of most ridiculous projects, which toes the line between art and prank, and his latest release, PaCT, a series of projects related to his two-part section hike of the PCT, the first chunk as a 23-year-old, and the rest at twice the age of 46.  Chaunce and Badger were thoroughly entertained during this one, you will be too. We wrap the show with a special triple crown, Elise edition, some surprise birthday wishes to Chaunce - including a voicemail that had us LMAO'ing, and much more. Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Bedrock Sandals: Head to bedrocksandals.com today! [divider] Interview with Peter Bergman An Address: Institute of Sociometry is PRESS Website is PRESS Instagram PaCT Website  PaCT Report Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:04:38 - QOTD: What is something every junk drawer must have in order to be considered a proper junk drawer? 00:09:03 - BPR Announcements: Denver Hiker Meetup April 5, New Intern 00:13:30 - Introducing Peter 00:13:36 - What’s your elevator pitch? 00:14:53 - Tell us about being a professor. 00:15:54 - What percentage of your students would you say are garbage people? 00:16:58 - What is your favorite course to teach? 00:17:57 - What’s the most memorable art project you’ve seen while teaching? 00:20:20 - What’s your take on the Van Gogh exhibit? 00:20:51 - What’s your take on Meow Wolf? 00:21:51 - What’s your overall experience as an artist? 00:27:18 - Would you say there’s a theme among Cabriolet owners? 00:28:33 - Tell us about the postcards. 00:31:49 - How did you not get shot? 00:33:28 - How do you differentiate between art and entertainment? 00:33:58 - What’s the name of the documentary? 00:34:38 - What was it like during/in the pre-Jackass, Southern California, skate-punk scene? 00:36:20 - What about skateboarding created that culture? 00:38:17 - What’s your take on Jackass? 00:38:57 - Discussion about free library project. 00:43:38 - Are you currently in the midst of any pranks? 00:51:15 - Tell us about the PCT section in 1996. 00:55:10 - Discussion about deciding to finish the trail in 2019. 00:56:06 - Discussion about hike from Denver to Mt. Holy Cross. 00:56:40 - How much of that route was off-trail vs. on roads? 00:56:58 - Discussion about returning to the PCT in 2019. 00:57:17 - How do Peter and Elise know each other? 00:58:25 - How did you end up with two feet of Dylan’s hair around your neck? 00:59:25 - Discussion about the hair collection. 01:02:16 - Discussion about the time capsule. 01:08:10 - Discussion about getting off trail in 1996. 01:12:14 - With your exciting hobbies off-trail, how did you keep yourself entertained on trail? 01:16:06 - As someone who is a professor, how would you assign an on-trail project to hikers as if they were students? 01:19:27 - Walk us through the flipbook, zine, and book. 01:21:25 - Discussion about book printing. 01:24:20 - Discussion about the time between 1996 and 2019. 01:25:09 - How did your dad respond to the book? 01:25:34 - How many books are left? 01:25:53 - Discussion about badgers. 01:28:29 - Tell us about the snowstorm. 01:34:20 - Discussion about completing the trail in 2019. 01:37:12 - What were the primary differences between the two hikes? 01:41:43 - What was your gear like in 1996? 01:43:57 - What’s your poop story? 01:49:22 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Matthew “Odie” Norman to Retire from Hiker Yearbook Project by Penina Satlow Triple Crown of Elise Chaunce’s Birthday Well-Wishes 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyonthedrums Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Andy Laub.  Andy is a thru-hiker, documentarian, cinematographer, director, editor, visual effects artist...basically all things under the sun dealing with making videos.  His work has been featured on the Discovery Channel, National Geographic, BBC World, Amazon Prime, Hulu & PBS World Channel.  His first trail documentary, As It Happens, has more than a million views on YouTube.  We chat all about his backpacking career, what goes into a professional video production, juggling his adventures while being a parent of two youngsters, and we go deep on his latest project, THRU, a six-part series featuring his 2018 thru-hike of the Pacific Northwest Trail.  Whether you nerd out on video stuff or not, I guarantee you'll enjoy this chat.  It's a fun one.  We wrap the show with a more formal announcement of the winner of the Backpacker Radio Sponsorship, we get a fan submission patent-pending about drinking sunscreen, and do a triple crown of thru-hiking phrases, clichés, and acronyms.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Organifi: Use code “backpacker” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “ultralight10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.  Bedrock Sandals: Head to bedrocksandals.com today!  Interview with Andy Laub Watch THRU here @thru_film on Instagram @laub.films on Instagram andylaubfilms.com @pjoart on Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:06:22 - QOTD: Do you Wordle? 00:10:12 - BPR Announcements: Trail Days Road Trip & Meetup Location 00:14:56 - Introducing Andy Laub 00:15:20 - Where’d you get into backpacking?  00:17:42 - What was your AT start date? 00:18:35 - Did you start at the stars? 00:19:41 - When you’re stuck, do you think like a film narrator? 00:20:01 - Were you in front of or behind the camera? 00:20:56 - Discussion of on-camera hand gestures and film angles 00:22:14 - Is there a bubble in February on the AT? 00:23:05 - What research did you do pre-trail? 00:24:30 - Tell us about meeting your first trail friend. 00:25:33 - Tell us about The Dusty Camel. 00:27:02 - Tell us about your time at the Discovery Channel. 00:28:45 - What’s Ian’s background at this point? 00:29:14 - Was the idea for the PCT film first or the idea to hike? 00:29:25 - Tell us about the PCT in 2011. 00:32:10 - What was your film equipment and how heavy was it? 00:32:35 - How do you decide who films what? 00:34:06 - Is it tough to capture both the highs and the lows? 00:36:53 - Is it harder for you to be in front of or behind the camera? 00:38:19 - What doors did As It Happens open for you? 00:39:16 - How did the National Geographic Society project come about? 00:41:05 - How did you go from As It Happens to the production value of THRU? 00:43:22 - What other equipment do you have on trail? 00:44:39 - Discussion about the cinematography and camera gear of THRU.  00:47:48 - What was the secret videography weapon Chaunce brought on the AT? 00:48:28 - What’s the process of making a documentary? 00:51:22 - Are you recording your flashbacks while hiking? 00:52:18 - Are you directing all of the footage on trail? 00:53:40 - Do you decide what you want the scenes to look like while hiking? 00:57:09 - How do you keep everyone on the same page? 01:00:16 - Do you need to have a lot of patience or social awareness? 01:03:07 - How did you put the group together? 01:04:44 - What packs did you use? 01:07:47 - Discussion about the group dynamic. 01:09:40 - Discussion about square tarps and gear weight. 01:10:03 - Is there a way to lighten heavy camera equipment? 01:11:27 - What are your three top tips to take something amateur and make it look high class? 01:14:34 - If you could go back and critique As It Happens, what feedback would you give? 01:16:16 - Are there ever moments you wish you could have captured on camera? 01:19:25 - What is THRU? 01:22:46 - Did you have any crazy grizzly encounters or oh shit moments? 01:27:25 - Do death-defying moments hit differently now that you have kids? 01:31:37 - Who does the graphics in THRU? 01:33:20 - What’s the dumbest thing you did on the hike? 01:34:12 - Discussion about the PNT’s trail types, usage, and season/weather window. 01:37:11 - Did you miss any miles? 01:37:56 - What’s your full trail resume? 01:38:25 - What are some of the films you made between trails? 01:41:56 - How do you maintain your positivity in the face of climate change? 01:43:34 - Discussion about climate change. 01:48:22 - What’s your dream project? 01:51:30 - Were you on the fence about bringing a drone? 01:53:45 - Discussion about the future of the PNT and value of the National Scenic Trails. 01:56:54 - How can people watch THRU? 01:58:43 - Will there be a season 2? 02:01:25 - Lobster facts! 02:04:17 - Discussion about trees. 02:06:00 - Thank you! SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Tell Us Your Story: How Has Thru-Hiking Changed Your Life? Meet the Winner of the 2022 Backpacker Radio Sponsorship! Listener Voicemail Triple Crown of hiking catchphrases/lingo 5 Star Review Trail Days [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyonthedrums Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)! Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Matt Soukup, and Jason Snailer. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are running back the Appalachian Trail panel.  This time, your favorite cinnamon connection are working in tandem to share some more of their top, trail-tested advice for hiking the AT.  This includes how to prevent against the biggest threat presented by the Trail, the right resupply strategy (or lack thereof), how to train for the Trail, and much more. We wrap the show with a triple crown of traits you'd want in a hiking partner and we chat about some of our favorite down jacket options.    Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  Bedrock Sandals: Head to www.bedrocksandals.com today!  AT Panel with Chaunce & Badger Time stamps & Questions 00:03:48 - QOTD: How do you feel about mint chocolate chip ice cream?  00:10:40 - BPR Announcements: WE ARE GOING TO TRAIL DAYS!  00:13:10 - Badger Tip #1: Permethrin your clothes!  00:19:34 - Chaunce Tip #1: Give shelters a shot  00:23:47 - Badger Tip #2: Dry out your gear 00:25:21 - Don’t worry about tidying your pack 00:26:52 - Chaunce Tip #2: Train vertically  00:28:34 - Alternatives to stair stepper machines  00:30:38 - Why running isn’t enough training for the AT  00:31:47 - Badger Tip #3: Don’t pre-plan resupplies on the AT Food planning for the A.T.   00:40:22 - Chaunce Tip #3: Instead of researching sights, research trail towns and history  00:44:29 - Be sure to have a seasoned hiker give you a shake down  00:49:15 - Panel wrap up SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  Best down jackets for thru-hiking by Kelly Floro Join The Trek Newsletter (see bottom of webpage)  Triple Crown of traits you want in a hiking partner  Listener Voicemails  5 Star Review  Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by David "AWOL" Miller.  If you know anything about the AT, then that name is likely already familiar to you as AWOL is the author of not one but TWO of the most popular books related to the Trail, including Miller's Memoir, "AWOL on the Appalachian Trail", and "The AT Guide" which AWOL has since sold.  We talk all about Miller's writing process, the incredible amount of work that went into bringing The AT Guide to life, why he decided to sell the guidebook to Anti Gravity Gear, what he's been up to since, and much more We close out the show with a chaotic series of segments, including a triple crown of grocery store aisles followed by listener voicemails which somehow devolves into a conversation about the Mason Dixon line of sperm potency.  But first.      Good To-Go: Use code “bpr25” HEREto save 25% on your next order.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Bedrock Sandals: Head to www.bedrocksandals.comtoday!  Hike the InternationalAppalachian Trail, Ulster-Ireland: Go to www.iatulsterireland.comto learn more about this beautiful hike!  Interview with David “AWOL” Miller sponsored by Good To-Go  Time stamps & Questions 00:05:32 -QOTD: What’s the worst recent injury you’ve sustained?And… What is your weird pet peeve?  00:10:02 - BPR Announcements: Badger Sponsorship Results, Internship Apps have closed, & Trail Days  00:12:45 - Introducing David “AWOL” Miller  00:13:05 - How much trail press have you done?  00:13:44 - Who were you before you became “AWOL”? 00:15:06 - What was your hiking experience prior to hiking the AT?  00:16:02 - Were you in Florida prior to your AT hike?  00:16:42 - Are there any mountains in Florida?  00:18:00 - What was the official title of your guide?  00:18:27 - Any favorite stories from your journey?  00:19:53 - What was the AT culture like in 2003?  00:21:56 - Did you plan on writing your memoir prior to the hike?  00:23:06 - Did you save the newspaper clippings? 00:23:17 - Did you use your articles in the memoir?  00:24:33 - Do you have a specific writing methodology?  00:25:40 - Was it challenging to open up in your memoir?  00:26:43 - What were your thoughts on “A Walk in the Woods”?  00:28:10 - Is your book the second most popular of AT books?  00:30:48 - What was the writing process like?  00:35:33 - How did the partnership with Amazon work?  00:37:14 - What goes into a good guide book?  00:40:20 - What are the logistical steps to make a guide happen? 00:41:31 - Are you using a digital mapping system? 00:42:20 - How did you approach all the changes that happen to the trail? 00:44:08 - What does it take to get the non-technical information 00:46:56 - What percentage of the year was dedicated to guide research? 00:47:37 - Tell us about selling the guidebook  00:49:28 - How did you see the book evolve?  00:52:48 - Tell us about your other hobbies (golfing, ballroom dancing, etc.)  00:54:09 - Future book topics  00:55:20 - What’s your exercise routine like these days?  00:57:23 - What does the new digital guide look like?  00:59:55 - What’s your take on what the next big thing will be for trail guides?  01:03:05 - What are you focusing on now these days?  01:04:52 - Thank you!  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  ZOLEO Satellite Communicator Reviewby Carl Stanfield Rough Start to Your Thru-Hike? It Could Be Because of Your Diet by Terry “Finder” Rice  Voicemail Segment: Leave us one here!  Triple Crown of grocery store aisles  Mail Bag  Thank you again, Good To-Go! Try Zach's favorite, Mushroom Risotto,and use code "bpr25" at checkout for 25% off. [divider] Check out our sound guy@Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes(and please leave us a review)!  Find us onSpotify,Stitcher, andGoogle Play. Support us on Patreonto get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio FollowThe Trek,Chaunce,Badger, and Trail Correspondentson Instagram. FollowThe TrekandChaunceon YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are talking all things Appalachian Trail (drink?).  Everybody's favorite honorary third co-host, Jabba, joins us in a roundtable of tips we would offer someone looking to take on a long distance backpacking trip on the AT (drink).  We touch on budgeting tips, ways to reduce your pack weight, advice for ensuring you complete your goal, insight on how to transition post-trail, and much more.   We round out the show with a triple crown of dance moves, some fast facts from the AT Class of 2021, and a fun announcement about the cinnamon connection's very own visit to the AT this year (drink).    Good To-Go: Use code “bpr25” HERE to save 25% on your next order.  Gossamer Gear: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Hike the International Appalachian Trail, Ulster-Ireland: Go to www.iatulsterireland.com to learn more about this beautiful hike!  AT Panel with Chaunce, Badger, & Jabba  Time stamps & Questions 00:05:08 - QOTD: What is the correct thermostat temperature for sleeping?  00:11:13 - BPR Announcements: We’ll be at Trail Days!  00:12:23 - Introducing the AT Panel  00:13:28 - Badger’’s Tip #1: For NOBOs, earlier start dates may be favorable but southern Appalachia weather may not agree 00:21:05 - AT hiking experience  00:22:13 - Chaunce’s Tip #1: Avoid the town experiences in the beginning, so you can slow down later on the trail  00:25:04 - Jabba’s Tip #1: Have some type of game-plan for post-trail life  00:31:06 - Badger’’s Tip #2: Mentally prepare yourself for the hike  00:34:15 - Did your “Why?” ever changed on a hike?  00:34:54 - What was your “why” for the PCT in comparison to the AT?  00:44:06 - Chaunce’s Tip #2: Keep a stricter budget  00:44:57 - How do we feel about hiker “Go Fund Me” pages?  00:54:44 - Jabba’s Tip #2: Figure out your footwear  01:02:53 - Badger’’s Tip #3: You don’t need as much water on the AT  01:11:45 - Chaunce’s Tip #3: Strategize your days around the rain, when convenient  01:14:11 - If you’re going to hike the AT, get Verizon!  01:15:25 - Let’s family/friends know when you won’t be having service  01:16:47 - Jabba’s Tip #3: Experience the social bubble & allow yourself to pivot  01:19:20 - Panel wrap-up, thanks Jabba!  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  TLDR: Summarizing the 2021 Appalachian Trail Thru Hiker Survey (Plus Hikers’ Favorite Sections of the Trail) by Joal & Jenny  Triple Crown of dance moves  5 Star Review “Love is Blind” Debrief   [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, Andrew Skurka returns!  Again.  In studio.  Not that you need any convincing to continue listening, but this chat starts normal and devolves into Chaunce tricking him into saying that he'll do sexual things a bug.  We also talk about the new normal of backpacking in the West, we learn about the Skurka Scholarship, and we get a detailed overview of the backcountry bidet butt cleaning technique.  This one has it all. We do a triple crown of reality tv shows, share the sad news of the passing of a beloved PCT trail angel, and give a last call for our internship application.  [divider] LISTEN Download this episode. [divider] Good To-Go: Use code “BPR25” HERE to save 25% on your next order. Free shipping on orders over $100.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  Hike the International Appalachian Trail, Ulster-Ireland: Go to www.iatulsterireland.com to learn more about this beautiful hike!  [divider] Interview with Andrew Skurka  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:41 - QOTD: What is everyone binging on Netflix right now?  00:12:24 - Reminders: Internship opportunity  00:14:16 - Introducing Andrew Skurka  00:14:57 - What has changed for you since 2021?  00:17:20 - How many minutes a mile do you average? 00:17:58 - How does your passion for running compare to your thru-hiking? 00:19:18 - What does your off season look like?  00:19:50 - Are you wrecked after one of these marathons? 00:21:05 - How many miles are you averaging a week?  00:21:42 - How do you break up your miles throughout the week?  00:22:23 - Why do you prefer road running? 00:22:58 - Has running dulled your excitement for long distance hiking?  00:25:51 - Do you use the van on guiding trips?  00:27:00 - The Guiding Business  00:28:52 - Is there a limit to your trips?  00:30:37 - What makes a good guide?  00:31:40 - What becomes stressful during the trips?  00:33:11 - What happened in 2014?  00:36:42 - Tell us about the guiding services you offer  00:37:30 - What’s the most difficult aspect of a guiding business? 00:38:27 - What does the Olympic Mountains trip have that others don’t?  00:41:21 - What factors do you take into account for trip cancellations?  00:42:54 - Do you think forest closures will becomes more and more common?  00:44:50 - Do you think strict fire-starting rules will be put into place?  00:45:40 - How do you feel about the condition of the West?  00:47:00 - Where are you house hunting?  00:49:42 - What’s your advice for CDT and PCT SOBOs? 00:51:45 - Do you think hikers need to strengthen snow skills?  00:52:24 - Which of your new trips are you most excited about?  00:53:11 - What do you look for when you scout out a new trip?  00:53:48 - Do you plan bailouts?  00:54:19 - What are the deadlines for applying for your trips?  00:54:45 - How many applications do you commonly receive?  00:55:36 - Do you use waitlists? 00:57:17 - How do you weed out applicants?  00:59:50 - Guide Hiring  01:02:21- What got you interested in birding?  01:04:32 - Skurka Scholarship  01:05:43 - Diversity of guiding trips  01:09:13 - Skurka Scholarship deadline - Feb 21st  01:10:48 - Thoughts on gear innovation  01:16:30 - What are your thoughts on inReach Mini 2?  01:22:22 - What other categories have innovation opportunities?  01:24:26 - What’s your least favorite flying insect?  01:25:24 - Fuck, Marry, Kill: Insect version  01:27:36 - Anything else gear-related? 01:29:45 - State of content-websites  01:32:26 - How do affiliate links?  01:34:45 - What’s the future of content websites?  01:36:49 - Voicemail Listener Questions - Backcountry bidet etiquette  01:46:59 - Listener Question - High Sierra in a high snow year 01:47:18 - Listener Question - High route development 01:48:38 - Listener Question - Who does Skurka follow in the outdoor space?  01:50:48 - Find Andrew Skurka: www.andrewskurka.com  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  (Almost) Every PCT Town, Ranked by Taylor Bell Sympathies to the Jerry Dinsmore family  Triple Crown of reality tv shows  5 Star Reviews  Thank you to our Title Sponsor, Good To-Go, Zach’s favorite meals on trail. Place your order at www.goodto-go.com and use code “BPR25” at checkout for 25% off!  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Ryan Bunting, known on trail as Constantine.  Constantine may already be a familiar name, as he was recently featured on a Trek Propaganda segment about becoming the youngest person to hike all 11 National Scenic Trails at the age of 27 years.  He put a bow on the achievement by setting the Fastest Known Time on the North Country Trail alongside his girlfriend, Magpie.   Seeing that this is a Valentine's Day episode, we go deep into the origin story of Constantine and Magpie's relationship, we get a rundown on which were his favorite and least favorite National Scenic Trails and why, and a hilariously awkward poop story.   We wrap the show with an almost announcement of the winner of the Backpacker Radio Sponsorship winner, the triple crown of national scenic trails, and the odd ways in which Chaunce and I are attempting to stay fit. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Good To-Go: Use code “BPR25” HERE to save 25% on your next order.  [divider] Interview with Ryan “Constantine” Bunting  Time stamps & Questions 00:07:33 - QOTD: Are you training for hiking season yet?  00:19:08 - Reminders: The BPR Sponsorship recipient has been chosen & internship opportunity reminder 00:24:10 - Welcome Constantine!  00:24:52 - Do you know how many miles you’ve accrued?  00:25:20 - When did you get started hiking?  00:26:00 - What are the National Scenic Trails?  00:27:28 - When did you fall in love with the long trails?  00:28:37 - Did you hike them in the traditional order?  00:28:45 - Did you know you wanted to do all 11? 00:30:25 - Did you know you could become the youngest to complete them all?  00:31:18 - How many people have completed them all?  00:33:20 - Tell us about the Potomac Trail 00:35:45 - Fuck, Marry, Kill: PCT, AT, or CDT 00:36:00 - What 3 scenic trails would you get rid of?  00:37:33 - What’s the rest of the chronology?  00:39:37 - How many miles was that in 2021? 00:41:44 - What’s your take on the Florida Trail?  00:42:50 - How many alligators did you see?  00:44:08 - What made you swear off the state of Alabama in 2019?  00:45:28 - Any other details on the Potamac hike?  00:46:45 - Did you end up doing 35s on these trails?  00:47:40 - What food issues did you have on trail?  00:47:46 - What did you change with your food strategy?  00:51:05 - Given you experience, how did the transition to the NCT go?  00:52:07 - Did you hike the trail westbound?  00:52:23 - When did you start the NCT?  00:53:17 - Does snow deter you?  00:55:52 - Did you have a satellite communicator with you during the hypothermia scare?  00:56:40 - Do you recall what you were wearing?  00:56:56 - Walk us through the hypothermic experience  01:00:08 - The Magpie love story  01:12:55 - Can you compare your relationship on trail vs. off trail? 01:14:47 - What were the highlights of the NCT?  01:17:39 - Have you been able to pinpoint the timeframe between hiking and getting the bug to hike again?  01:18:36 - What do you enjoy about the non-stop hiking?  01:20:30 - Do you go out of your way to talk to locals?  01:21:44 - How are you able to fund these hikes?  01:22:50 - What’s your company? ElevenSkys 01:23:45 - How do you go about starting an apparel company?  01:26:26 - What’s your go-to pair of shorts?  01:26:38 - Tell us your 2022 hiking plans 01:29:30 - The Donut Story  01:31:48 - Constantine’s Poop Story  01:33:58 - Find Constantine here: ElevenSkys, Instagram  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda:  Hearing Gunfire on the AT Near Hawk Mountain? Don’t Worry, That’s Normal Trevor Spikes Program to Ship Discounted Microspikes to PCT Hikers in Memory of Trevor Laher  Triple Crown of National Scenic Trails  Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews  [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are diving into all things Pacific Crest Trail related. This is another panel featuring our hero and fellow PCT hiker, Elise Ott aka Sauce, and in it we share our best advice in regards to training, logistical prep, gear advice, ideal start dates, pacing, dealing with extreme temperatures, and much more. If you're planning a long-distance trek on the PCT, whether a section hike or a thru, you will glean valuable insights from this one. We wrap the show with a slew of segments in celebration of Backpacker Radio turning four years old, including some trivia, a listener voicemail, Trek propaganda, and more. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek” here.  Save 20% at Organifi with code "BACKPACKER" PCT Panel with Chaunce, Badger, & Sauce Time stamps & Questions 00:05:45 - QOTD: What’s been your most iconic moment of Backpacker Radio over the past 4 years?  00:12:13 - Reminders: Elise’s Announcement & Internship Opportunity  00:18:30 - Mara thinks she’s fired  00:27:35 - Introducing the PCT Panel  00:21:16 - Chaunce’s Tip #1: No bulking seasons  00:38:00 - Elise’s Tip #1: Don’t over plan  00:43:27 - Zach’s Tip #1: 3 steps to prep  00:49:20 - Zach’s Southbound Advice: It’s all about timing 00:52:38 - Having a good diet on-trail 00:53:52 - Zach’s healthy hiking food recommendations  00:59:48 - Chaunce’s Tip #2: Shipping food on PCT  01:04:50 - Packing out morale-boosting snacks/drinks  01:08:15 - Elise’s Tip #2: PCT start dates  01:14:20 - Elise’s snow experience in September  01:20:30 - Zach’s Tip #2: Heat Training  01:29:37 - Electrolytes in the desert  01:32:00 - Gear Setups  01:32:14 - What tents did everyone use?  01:43:33 - What’s everyone’s sleep system?  02:00:40 - What backpacks did everyone use?  02:10:40 - Is the BPR crew outdated with their gear?  02:21:00 - Voicemail Question: What’s your opinion on PCT resupplying?  02:30:38 - Elise’s advice for a snow year: collaborate with a group SEGMENTS BPR’s Top 10 Cities  Countries w/ 1 BPR Download  4 Year Trivia Answers Dragonfly = 4 weeks, Houseflies = 4 months, Guinea Pig = 4 years Who is the 4th richest American? Larry Ellison of Oracle What hike did Jabba complete in 2018? Colorado Trail You have $4 for a meal, what do you buy? 4-Themed Trek Propaganda Articles Four Reasons Why I Will Thru-Hike the A.T. at Forty by Heather Oconnell Four Things I Will Never Hike Without Again by Claire Dumont Our Colorado Trail Gear Lists: The Big Four by Kate Houston 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Rolf Gunnar Asphaug.  Rolf's adventuring career started in 1987 when he quit his cushy job as a lawyer, and set off to backpack from Tuscon, Arizona to Portland, Oregon on a route he devised using a Rand McNally road atlas.  We of course go deep into this epic journey- we also learn all about the Colorado Mountain Club, for which Rolf used to serve as the organization's president, his time volunteering for Jefferson Country Open Space and a number of Colorado state parks, and we touch on Rolf's Colorado Trail thru-hike last year at the age of 62.    We wrap the show with a triple crown of pizza toppings, and we introduce a pair of new segments- what's in a trail name, and listener voicemails! But first.    Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 20% off your entire purchase. [divider] Interview with Rolf  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:06 - QOTD: What’s the most uncommon/odd meal you’ve had on trail?  00:07:24 - Reminders: BPR Sponsorship & Internship Opportunity  00:10:58 - Welcome Rolf!  00:11:29 - What was your career prior to getting into backpacking?  00:15:40 - The start of Rolf’s cross country adventure  00:16:11 - Did you save up for this trip? 00:19:40 - Did you avoid the interstates?  00:20:15 - What was hitchhiking like in 1987?  00:22:10 - Was Zion covered in the Atlas?  00:23:33 - Raisins  00:24:10 - How did you navigate through Zion National Park? 00:24:45 - Post-Zion Events  00:26:22 - Did you ever stay in hotels/motels?  00:27:25 - How did people react when you told them what you were doing?  00:28:09 - Passing through Yosemite  00:29:44: - How do you coordinate meeting up with people on this trip? Pay phones? 00:30:40 - Did you have a specific time frame? 00:31:17 - Did you have awareness of the PCT at that time?  00:32:00 - Which way did you go up Mt. Whitney? 00:32:26 - Did you have the entire route written up?  00:33:11 - Were permits needed yet?  00:33:43 - Did Half Dome have cables then?  00:36:24 - Do you remember your route through San Francisco?  00:38:22 - Did you hike in boots?  00:38:54 - Long Peak Trail Runners 00:40:06 - Was this life changing for you?  00:40:36 - Did you think you were going back to being a lawyer after this? 00:42:18 - Journaling a thru-hike  00:43:17 - How did you path shift after this hike?  00:46:55 - Colorado Outward Bound  00:53:03 - Rolf’s Trophies  00:53:45 - Rolf getting creative in court  00:57:34 - How do you think Denver is doing with mass transit?  01:00:35 - Rolf’s volunteering experience  01:01:48 - How did you meet your wife?  01:06:04 - Tell us about the Colorado Mountain Club  01:08:11 - What did you do as President?  01:10:12 - What other classes does the CMC offer?  01:11:45 - What does the membership go for?  01:12:56 - How long were you President for CMC?  01:15:26 - Volunteering for Jefferson County, CO  01:18:15 - What is bark patrol?  01:21:54 - How much trash do you pick up on average?  01:22:31 - Cleanliness of CO parks  01:25:34 - How many people are employees vs. volunteers?  01:27:05 - Do you know what parks have foxtails?  01:28:02 - In which park are you most likely to see mountain lions?  01:32:00 - Tell us about your Colorado Trail experience  01:38:18 - Durston Gear  01:40:22 - Chaunce hiking with Harper 01:42:24 - Leo Fact from Zach 01:43:24 - What was your sobering experience at Cascade Creek? 01:49:20 - Thank you, Rolf! 01:50:58 - Find Rolf on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  8 Things I’m Excited to Do to Attempt a More Sustainable Thru-hike by Rachel Shoemaker Triple Crown of Pizza Toppings  What's in a Trail Name? BPR Voicemails  URL: sayhi.chat/bpr 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Derick Lugo known on trail as Mr. Fabulous.  Although it's not all that unheard of for someone to attempt the Appalachian Trail with minimal backpacking experience, Brooklyn-born Derick Lugo had never even been on a day hike before arriving to Springer Mountain for his NOBO AT thru-hike attempt.  Not only did he complete the trail, but Derick has gone on to write a book, start a podcast, and has done many public speaking events. This is a lively chat, Derick is an orb of energy, and we laughed our way through. We wrap the show with a look at what footwear the AT class of 2021 rocked (and how the perennial is starting to lose some ground), a triple crown of dinosaurs (including some interesting facts about the dildosaurus), and the FULL details of the Backpacker Radio Sponsorship. [divider] LISTEN Download this episode. [divider] Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 20% off your entire purchase. [divider] Interview with Derick Lugo  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:47 - QOTD: How was your break?  00:11:01 - Reminders: Backpacker Radio Sponsorship  00:14:02 - Welcome Derick Lugo!  00:14:36 - How much did the long taxi ride cost you? 00:15:40 - What was your life like before the AT? 00:16:51 - Zach meeting Derick  00:23:17 - What sparked the idea of hiking the AT?  00:25:08 - Did you borrow any gear?  00:29:01 - What’s your take on Bill Bryson’s “A Walk in the Woods”?  00:31:22 - Keeping books relevant  00:32:15 - The Unlikely Thru-Hiker book cover  00:35:10 - Is Chaunce confused?  00:35:50 - Were you athletic prior to your thru-hike?  00:39:42 - What type of miles were you putting up in the early days of your hike?  00:41:00 - Were other hikers helpful to you? What was the community like?  00:43:28 - How did you get your trail name, Mr. Fabulous?  00:49:38 - Throwback to “Fancy Feast”  00:50:08 - Did you maintain your hygiene through the hike?  00:52:28 - How far were you taking your hygiene practices?  00:55:37 - Any other funny beginner hiker stories?  00:59:36 - Did any parts of city life prepare you for the trail?  01:02:05 - Did you do stand up at the comedy clubs you worked at?  01:02:22 - Any good bars along the hike?  01:03:13 - Any comedy bits you can share with us?  01:04:27 - Did you reduce your 40lb pack over time?  01:07:48 - The Carly Moree connection  01:08:28 - Tell us about your podcast  01:16:50 - Will Smith  01:18:40 - Derick praises Backpacker Radio 01:19:56 - Are you working on Season 2 of your podcast?  01:20:45 - Derick is hiking the CDT next!  01:21:38 - CDT partnership announcement  01:24:27 - Are you bringing your dog?  01:25:31 - How will the experience mesh with the podcast? 01:27:27 - Long Trail vs. CDT  01:28:55 - Where can people find you and your book?  Derick Lugo Instagram Derick Lugo Website  SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda  The Top Footwear on the Appalachian Trail: 2021 Thru-Hiker Survey Triple Crown of Dinosaurs  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, and Matt Soukup.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, we are joined by Jack Jones better known on trail as Quadzilla.  Quadzilla has packed a lot of life into his time on this earth- he is a bonafide renaissance man with a great outlook on life.  We chat about his time in the army, running a CrossFit gym in his late 20s, serving as a wildland firefighter, participating in several multi-day meditation retreats, backpacking thousands of miles including the triple crown, we touch on his bikepacking, and Chaunce and I lather him with an uncomfortable amount of praise on those giant, beautiful quads.  Needless to say, this conversation covers a lot of ground- we certainly enjoyed it a lot and hope you do too. We wrap the show with a triple crown of our new year's resolutions, we give a shoutout to the youngest person to complete all eleven National Scenic Trails, and the details for the Backpacker Radio Sponsorship are officially announced.  2022 thru-hikers, you can enter today.  [divider] Listen   Download this episode. [divider] IndexIQ: You no longer need to choose between supporting the environment and investing in your financial future. Visit clnretf.com today! Be sure to read IndexIQ information below before investing.  Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 20% off your entire purchase. [divider] Interview with Jack “Quadzilla” Jones Time stamps & Questions 00:04:07 - QOTD: Is chewing gum a suitable substitute to brushing your teeth? 00:05:41 - Reminders: Backpacker Radio Sponsorship  00:07:30 - Introducing Jack “Quadzilla” Jones 00:07:36 - Is Quadzilla your trail name?  00:09:09 - What’s the recipe for good quads?  00:09:26 - Are the good quads genetic? 00:10:22 - Is your muscular make up a help or hindrance to hiking?  00:12:12 - What is your trail resume?  00:13:49 - Does lyme disease stay in your blood?  00:16:54 - Did you do the full Oregon Coast Trail? 00:18:08 - Do you commonly do impromptu thru-hikes?  00:19:05 - Have you tallied all your hiking miles? 00:19:41 - What was your inspiration to start thru-hiking? 00:20:49 - After almost 6 years of hiking, do you ever get lonely?  00:24:52 - What was your life like before finding thru-hiking?  00:28:55 - What is the retreat like?  00:31:58 - How long does that clarity last you? 00:33:43 - Can you give us a summary of the meditation type?  00:34:59 - How do you practice your meditation on trail?  00:37:11 - Tell us about your earlier years in the Army?  00:39:55 - Do you hold any resentment over the way your dad passed?  00:44:05 - Do you feel your time in the Army influenced your interest in hiking?  00:45:21 - Do you feel like you battle aggression issues?  00:46:06 - What do you attribute your centeredness to?  00:46:56 - What is the Deadman Peaks Trail Race?  00:49:44 - Were you pacing yourself towards the end of the CDT?  00:51:33 - We need to hear about you smashing a watermelon between your legs!  00:54:26 - Did you all eat the smashed watermelon? 00:54:44 - Are you a runner outside of hiking? 00:55:58 - Zone 2 Cardio  01:00:23 - How did you get into Wildland Firefighting?  01:04:03 - How does the intensity compare to bootcamp?  01:07:45 - How do you deal with fear on the job?  01:09:18 - How do you handle the hydration aspect?  01:10:09 - Will you return next year?  01:13:07 - What would you tell people that still have fires during fire bans? 01:15:06 - If you could redo one of the trails you’ve done, which would you do?  01:17:08 - What is your backpacking advice for new hikers?  01:18:54 - What are your big 3? Or 5?  01:25:02 - What goals do you have for 2022? 01:26:32 - Do you have any gear sponsors? 01:27:03 - Follow Quadzilla on Instagram 01:29:47 - Thank you, Quadzilla!   SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Ryan ‘Constantine’ Bunting sets North Country Trail FKT and Becomes Youngest Hiker to Complete All 11 National Scenic Trail Triple Crown of New Year’s Resolutions  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.  IndexIQ Investing Involves Risk. Consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and the statement of additional information include this and other relevant information about the Funds and are available by visiting CLNRetf.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. IndexIQ® is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Investment Management Holdings LLC and serves as the advisor to the IndexIQ ETFs. ALPS Distributors, Inc. (ALPS) is the principal underwriter of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a distributor of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is located at 30 Hudson Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with NYLIFE Distributors LLC. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a Member FINRA/SIPC.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again joined by Trek Writer, author, journalist, thru-hiker, and fan favorite, Clay Bonnyman Evans aka "Pony". Pony gives us a play-by-play of his recent PCT thru-hike, we talk an uncomfortable amount about semen, the challenges of maintaining a marriage during a four-month backpacking trip, why this bout of post-trail depression was especially intense, and more. We wrap the show with a triple crown of soups done during another plank-off per our guest's request, and things generally fall off the rails as they tend to do. Listen   Download this episode. [divider] IndexIQ: You no longer need to choose between supporting the environment and investing in your financial future. Visit clnretf.com today! Be sure to read IndexIQ information below before investing.  Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 20% off your entire purchase. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “ultralight10” here.  [divider] Interview with Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA  “Pony”  Time stamps & Questions 00:03:25 - QOTD: What is one thing you are unreasonably excited about right now?  00:13:43 - Introducing Clay Bonnyman Evans AKA “Pony” 00:15:17 - You just finished the PCT. Let’s chat about it!  00:17:42 - What do you attribute the difference in experience (between AT & PCT) to?  00:20:01 - How would you describe post-trail depression? 00:26:30 - Did your wife start adapting to life without you?  00:30:14 - Was your wife uncomfortable with you spending time with other women?  00:32:18 - Do you think there’s a specific hiking duration that leads to a tipping point when someone is at home waiting for you?  00:37:31 - When is your book coming out?  00:39:14 - Vlogging or blogging your thru-hike  00:39:47 - You weren’t originally planning on thru-hiking the PCT, were you?  00:44:24 - Did you have a plan of attack for bringing up the thru-hike to your wife?  00:47:13 - What is the biggest draw of the thru-hike for you? 00:51:30 - On-trail happiness  00:57:37 - Snow & wildfires on the PCT  01:00:51 - Happiness on the PCT vs. the AT  01:09:00 - Shedding weirdness and bullshit while on trail  01:12:47 - Every thru-hike is an individual experience  01:21:21 - Pony’s sharting story  01:26:01 - What is sharting?  01:27:33 - Why were you talking about anuses with your therapist?  01:30:00 - Jerking off on trail  01:36:16 - What’s the Leave No Trace policy for ejaculant? 01:38:29 - Feeding deer on the trail  01:43:26 - What other spicy takes do you have, Pony?  01:48:27 - PLEASE VOLUNTEER!  01:55:01 - Sharts or Sharks?  01:55:52 - Chaunce’s poop map idea  02:30:00 - Pony addresses ultralight backpacking SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Appalachian Thru-Hike Checklist by Kelly Floro  Triple crown of Soups Mailbag  5 Star Review Hot Stuff w/ Pony [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.  IndexIQ Investing Involves Risk. Consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and the statement of additional information include this and other relevant information about the Funds and are available by visiting CLNRetf.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. IndexIQ® is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Investment Management Holdings LLC and serves as the advisor to the IndexIQ ETFs. ALPS Distributors, Inc. (ALPS) is the principal underwriter of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a distributor of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is located at 30 Hudson Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with NYLIFE Distributors LLC. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a Member FINRA/SIPC.