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Chris Cage quit a corporate job to travel and eventually hike the Appalachian Trail. When he was finally done, he had a choice to make. Either go back to corporate life or find a way to fund his new lifestyle. He chose the latter and founded Greenbelly Meals. Chris has had to make some big life-changing decisions that all came at a cost, but that’s makes it an adventure. To risk the known for the unknown.On this episode, we get to know a little more about Chris Cage, Green Belly, and how he goes about managing risks. We also dive into entrepreneurship, his book on the AT, and a fun new social networking site for backpacking gear nerds called Packfire.  By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-how-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.co SAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow Notes and LinksIntroduction to Greenbelly Backstory on Chris CageWhy Chris decided to hike the ATLife after the AT and deciding to create a food productDeciding to make BIG life changing decisions Why Chris started a business instead of continuing to travelHow Chris knew Greenbelly would be sustainableHow Chris self published his book on hiking the AT Deciding where to spend your time and energyThe backstory on Packfire and who it’s for (ie fun!)What Greenbelly Meals offerBackstory on the name “Greenbelly”Final advice for those needing to make a big decision https://www.greenbelly.co/https://packfire.com/https://www.instagram.com/greenbellymealHow to Hike the Appalachian Trail: A Comprehensive Guide to Plan and Prepare for a Successful Thru-Hike

Chad Lubinski messaged me a few years ago after my PCT hike asking questions about how to section hike various portions of the PCT through Oregon because he’d never really considered any sort of hiking or backpacking outside of the hunting season. Since that first interaction, Chad has dived headfirst into backpacking. In 2019 he battled his first big chunk of miles along the PCT and just one year later he completed his first-ever thru-hike of the John Muir Trail. That one single thru-hike that put him through the wringer forced him to adapt to the changing conditions of the trail and when he came out the other side, he had a brand new lease on backpacking. It was like a rocket ship to backcountry freedom because when he came home, he went to work pounding out the miles as often as he could down some of the best trails Oregon and Washington have to offer.In this episode, if the By Land Podcast, Chad shares his personal story, lessons learned, and what it’s like to hit the backcountry with confidence.By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-how-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow Notes and LinksIntroductionsChad’s backgroundChad’s transition from hunting to backpackingWhat caused Chad to begin section hikingExperiencing the hiking cultureObserving the efficiency of thru hikersHow efficiency can improve your enjoymentWhat changed between 2019 and 2020Chad’s experience on the JMTNavigating the permit processPreparing for the JMTGetting punched in the face by the JMTLessons learned on the JMTLearning the rhythm of the mountainsThe powerful connection to others on the trailChad’s takeaway from the JMTConfidence equals freedom in the backcountryHow to followup with Chad onlinehttps://hikertrashnation.com/https://www.instagram.com/chadahooche_/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK9Hz3X4LcG4fczA5vtz59Q

This episode of the By Land Podcast might get uncomfortable for hunters because I’m going to take a very hard and very uncomfortable look at the reality of what hunting culture actually is in 2020. This is not a topic that I take lightly. I’ve been sorting this out in my head for a long time now and thought it was time to put this out to listeners for them to consider as well.This episode is a sort of thought experiment. We’ll dive into a number of questions regarding my own realities when it comes to hunting and what it is and isn’t, explore a hypothetical question of how long it would take for hunting ethics to breakdown, and lastly what this means for hunting in the future if my assumptions are correct.This was not an easy episode to put together and I expect it will not be easy to listen to for some hunters out there who believe that their own version of hunting is the REAL version of hunting.I’ll also dive into my concerns on whether or not echo chambers exist within minority factions of hunting communities and how that may be damaging to the future of hunting as a whole if left unaddressed.Episode 120 a loaded one and for those who decide to stick around, I hope it sparks conversation within your own small social circles so that we as a collective can begin to find solutions to the harsh reality of modern hunting culture.By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-how-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow Notes and LinksIntroductionsThe questions I’ve asked myself about hunting cultureDefinition of “echo chamber”What is the reality of what hunting culture is?What is the future of hunting?How many hunters do the right thing?My experiences with others’ bad ethicsWho’s the real majority?Is “what hunting is and isn’t” just a big echo chamber?My thought experiment on human natureChange comes from a desire to changeWhat is the future of hunting?What is the reality of hunting?What happens if hunting is voted out of existenceThe attempt of the industry to change the narrative of what hunting is and isn’tThe hunting narrative isn’t workingAnalyzing the kill shotFinal thoughts

Mark Huelsing is a Dad, Husband, hunter, and just so happens to work at Exo Mountain Gear, however, on this episode of The By Land Podcast, we go in a bit of a different direction. No gear talk and no hunting stories (ok..maybe one). I’ve always appreciated Mark’s insight that goes beyond the generic gear talk. Anytime I need an outside opinion on something, he’s ready and willing to offer a thoughtful perspective.I reached out to Mark and asked if he’d want to come on the show to chat. He initially told me he probably didn’t have anything important to talk about, but after shooting me a few things he’d been thinking about lately, we set a time and made it happen.This is NOT a gear episode. Instead, this is more of a conversation you’d have at the end of a long day on the trail or hunt while sitting around a campfire. We cover everything from why it’s good for you to be bad at something, the feeling of needing to be productive with your time in the outdoors while also wanting to relax, and the realization that some of us might not ever be the worlds greatest hunter.If you’re in the mood for a conversation that explores more than just gear and stories, this is the one for you. I’m incredibly grateful Mark was willing to open up about these topics and I’d encourage each of you listening to do the same. Ask yourself the hard questions and see what comes of it.By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-how-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow Notes and LinksIntroduction to MarkWhere Mark gets his enjoyment from him early morning trainingThoughts on the crux of need to feel “productive” in the woods when away from familyHow hunting creates participation with natureThe contrast created by wanting to be relaxed in the field AND productiveLearning to allow your mind to run with it when you’re in the fieldWhere Mark’s outdoor story beginsThe benefits of sucking at somethingMarks conscious decision to NOT be an amazing hunter in favor of spending more time with family (and being okay with it)The desire to have story and process over resultThe “pressure” in the industry to outperform everyoneBeing honest about what you’re willing to sacrifice forTaking advantage of opportunities when you have themHow to followup with Markhttps://exomtngear.com/https://exomtngear.com/pages/the-hunt-backcountry-podcast

Out of the blue in 2017 I realized I had been sitting on a pile of camouflage hunting gear that I only used once a year during the hunting season. The remainder of the year it sat in boxes gathering dust. Literally thousands of dollars worth of camo that I wasn’t using and wouldn’t use anytime outside of the hunting season.I concluded it was time to quit camouflage and swap those items out with solids in order to optimize my purchases. Since doing so, I haven’t looked back.This episode is a spin off of the original article I wrote called “3 Reasons You Should Consider Quitting Camouflage.” It has since become my MOST popular article on the site so I figured I’d do a full episode going through the 3 reasons I think YOU should consider quitting camouflage as well.Enjoy!By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-how-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow Notes and LinksEpisode introductionClearing the air and setting the stageHow I came to quit camouflageReason #1: Cost SavingsReason #2: Camo is more about marketing than camouflageHow we got into this camo fiasco in the first placeCamouflage as a marketing toolReason #3: More OptionsWhat and how deer and elk seeUltravioletHow to choose a camouflage patternFinal thoughtsThe original article with links: https://byland.co/blog/2017/12/11/3-reasons-you-should-consider-quitting-camouflageVisible Light Spectrum: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Color

I’ve been on the hunt for a lightweight mountain rifle for a few years now and just recently learned of Bergara Rifles USA after a friend said I should check them out. I looked them up and reached out to learn more and the next thing I knew, I was on the phone with Tony Smotherman talking about the Bergara backstory. Since this is a backpacking podcast, I think we’re due for an episode regarding a backpacking friendly mountain rifle. That’s exactly what the Bergara Premier Series Mountain Rifle 2.0 is. It’s light, durable, and comes in a number of popular hunting calibers.This episode might be focused on getting to know Bergara and what they do best, but I think it’s more than that. Tony shares his personal story of how he got into the outdoors and I think it’s something a lot of people can relate to.This is what I love about this podcast. I can cover something as simple as a backcountry rifle and the company that makes it while simultaneously driving home the idea that we all have something in common, regardless of where we are from and what we do in the backcountry.For those backcountry hunters out there listening, you’ll FOR SURE want to check out Bergara after this episode. And for those non-hunters, I think you’ll still enjoy the episode from the perspective of learning about other outdoor cultures.By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-how-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow Notes and LinksIntroduction to Tony and Bergara FirearmsBackstory on Tony SmothermanHow and why Tony got into the outdoor industryLearning to chase your dreams and goalsGetting to know Bergara Firearms and their backstoryBergara’s decision to build custom firearmsEmploying veteran gunsmithsThe team behind BergaraProduct line comparisonsThe importance of the weight of a rifleThe impact of rifle weightBenefits of carbon fiber rifle stocks (vs. wood)Choosing the right tools for the jobLearning not to sweat the small stuffHow to followup with Bergara Firearmshttps://www.bergara.online/us/https://www.bergara.online/us/rifles/premier/mountain-2-0-rifle/https://www.instagram.com/bergara_rifles/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5_KVcmKS9L8VpFFCdCbO-g

Chris Niccolls has been reviewing cameras and camera systems on YouTube for years now. If the system exits, there’s a pretty solid chance he’s not only had his hands on it, but he’s been able to run it through it’s paces and created a video about it. This is what Chris does; he learns about the tech, the features, and the capabilities of the entire camera system as a whole so YOU, the viewer, can decide whether or not it’s going to work for you or not.This is exactly why I wanted to talk to Chris. To hear from his perspective what is important in a camera system and how to choose one of your own for backcountry adventuring.If you’re into photography or videography and you’re searching for a system to call your own, this episode should no doubt help you on your search.By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow Notes and LinksIntroductionsBackstory with ChrisDigesting the complicated nature of photographyPairing photography with technologyExciting trends in the camera industryHow to navigate the available camera choicesPros and cons of micro 4/3 systemsDialing in on a system that works for youEnjoyment over image qualityLearning to be specific on your use caseCamera carryThe Fuji X100V for backpacking and hikingThe thing about landscape photographersThe rise of hybrid shooting and what that meanshttps://www.dpreview.com/https://www.youtube.com/user/dpreviewcomhttps://www.instagram.com/dpreviewhttps://www.instagram.com/chris.niccollsbonus linkshttps://amzn.to/3j1KzF7

Karla Amador is the co-founder of the 52 Hike Challenge, an organization dedicated to encouraging adventure and getting people outside. On this episode we dive into Karla’s personal backstory and how she came to create the 52 Hike Challenge as well as how to deal with the negative self talk that often happens when we’re in the middle of a physical or mental challenge.Karla has a very relatable story that I think a lot of people can identify with and she’s willing to share it openly with others so they can learn from her journey. She has a big heart and an encouraging spirit!Please enjoy this episode with Karla and thanks for tuning in!By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow Notes and LinksIntroductionsOrigin story of the 52 Hike ChallengeHow hiking changed Carla’s lifeWhy hiking was so beneficial to healing to KarlaExperiencing the John Muir TrailHow to deal with the struggleLessons learned from the JMTWhy 52 Hikes in a year?What you can get out of a 52 hike challengeTraining your mind to deal with challengesWhy we tend to go to the negative instead of the positiveWhat to make of the current COVID 19 pandemic and the energy surrounding itHow to followup with Karla and the 52 Hike Challengehttps://www.52hikechallenge.comhttps://www.instagram.com/52hikechallenge/https://twitter.com/52hikechallengeFun Linkshttps://www.americanbackcountry.com/store/national-parks-catalog/repreve-5/new-for-2020.htmlhttps://www.americanbackcountry.com/store/national-parks-catalog/repreve-5.html?limit=30

Aron Snyder is the President of Kifaru International, a household name and brand in the world of backcountry hunting. When I first heard of Aron, I was commuting to and from work an hour each way and spent a lot of that time learning as much as I could from his experiences via podcasting because at the time, I was beginning to get nice and cozy with the idea of backpack hunting. I needed as much information as possible and that’s what I got along with a lot of entertainment.Aron has spent a lot of time in the field learning things that you can only learn IN THE FIELD. He’s succeeded, failed, and succeeded again and, as you’ll hear in this episode, it’s the getting the reps in that count. Nothing is a substitute for miles and time in the backcountry because that’s what ACTUALLY teaches you what you need to learn. Once that experience is gained, you’ll look back and see that those spreadsheets you made detailing every single nut and bolt you carried with you are actually not so useful after all. You’ll no longer care about how much an item weighs because you’ll already know that information and you’ll know HOW that item fits into your kit and WHY it’s there in the first place.Backpacking will become second nature at some point and that’s when the doors begin to open for you.This episode with Aron Snyder is littered with incredible insight from a guy who designs packs for a living, runs a backcountry hunting company, and has put a countless amount of hours in the field doing the hard work. When he speaks, listen closely and take he says and apply it to your own backcountry efforts.From getting to know where Aron came from and how he came to work for Kifaru to what ACTUALLY matters out there, it’s all in this episode and you’ll no doubt come away with some great nuggets of wisdom.By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow Notes and LinksIntroductionsArons backstory and road to KifaruKifaru’s product testing and revision processPatrick’s background in the backpacking industryOn “chasing the lightweight rabbit”How to change your approach for different backpacking stylesDesigning for others, not yourselfAdapting for the situation you’re headed intoThe approach to Kifaru designUn-complicating the backpacking processLearning how to backpack is a constantly evolving processLearn from your failuresShoot for the “happy medium” gearGear for the fun of it, and gear for the applicationDifferent gear for different missionsMore backcountry, fewer spreadsheetsHow to followup with Aron and Kifaruhttps://kifaru.net/https://www.instagram.com/kifaru_intl/https://www.facebook.com/kifaruinternational/https://www.youtube.com/Kifarutubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBSWT5C8eSDWrDiHETNO3_Qhttps://www.instagram.com/aron_snyderhttps://www.instagram.com/kifarucast

There is no “one size fits all” solution for backcountry footwear. The wall of shoes at your local outdoor store should be proof enough of that, but how in the world are you supposed to choose? It’s a process, just like anything else, and that’s exactly why Josh Kirchner is back on the show to share his journey with backcountry footwear.Josh is the voice behind Dialed In Hunter and a number of other great publications. He’s put a lot of miles under his feet in the deserts of Arizona chasing wild critters and has learned a few things about what works and what doesn’t FOR HIM when it comes to backcountry footwear. In this episode, we dive into a discussion on where to even begin finding the right boot or shoe and techniques on how to then massage the fit and feel to where it works for your foot.If you’re struggling to figure out this whole footwear thing for backpacking, this is the episode you’ll want to tune into!By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow Notes and linksIntroductionsWhy footwear is SO importantJosh’s journey to finding the right bootTroubleshooting fit issuesUnderstanding boot stylesWhat boot Josh uses todayThe importance of LeukotapeFinding footwear is a processFighting the desire to overdo itFootwear as toolsThoughts on socksAddressing “weak ankles”Trekking poles as an extension of footwearWalking techniques that help with foot problemsThe impact of lacing up a bootChoosing the right sockJosh’s book “Becoming a Backpack Hunter”5 Tips For Choosing A Hunting BootBecoming a Backpack Hunterhttp://dialedinhunter.com/https://www.instagram.com/dialedinhunter/https://www.facebook.com/dialedinhunterhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6ItIjVnltPYvPWohOPk0dQ?https://twitter.com/dialedinhunter

In this episode of The By Land Podcast, we’re going to get to know Brad and Jason of Argali Outdoors. Together, they are the driving forces behind Argali, the incredible films being produced, and the “why” behind why Argali exists in the first place. Knowing “why” you do what you do is the one thing that you can look back on when making both personal and business decisions and it’s pretty clear that Jason and Brad defined that first before doing anything else.Brad was on the show a while back talking about one if their films, but a few things have changed since then so I thought it would be great to have Argali back on to update everyone on what they’re up to nowadays. We ended up have a great chat that to me is a great way to get to know who is behind Argali so you as a consumer and viewer have a better understanding of where they’re coming from and where they’re going.Please enjoy this chat with Brad and Jason!By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow NotesIntroductionsGetting to know BradGetting to know JasonHow Brad and Jason linked upJason’s background with filmThe early days learning to film a huntHow Argali came to beGrowing ArgaliThe importance of storytellingWhat’s new with ArgaliThe importance of “why”Changes to video projectsArgali branded productsJason’s thoughts on camera choices for backcountry filmmakingHow to follow up with ArgaliLinkshttps://argalioutdoors.com/https://www.instagram.com/argali_official/https://www.facebook.com/argaliofficial/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA_R_X4kk4P-ZUSrt2CXmng

I wouldn’t change a single thing about my 2017 hike of the Pacific Crest Trail because what happened out there made it MY hike and I love it for what it was. That said, we can’t help but reflect on the things we’d do differently and I like to think of it as learning valuable lessons rather than being unhappy with various aspects of my hike.I’ve had three years to digest my lessons learned and have come away with a short list of things I’d do differently if I had to do it all over again from scratch. Some are PCT specific, others are not. Even if you’re not planning on hiking the PCT or any other long trail, I think you’ll benefit from some of the items on my list.To those who ARE planning a hike sometime down the road, know this - you’ll never be 100% ready and NOTHING will go as planned. You’re going to make mistakes along the way, but as long as you learn from them then that’s all that matters.By Land,Emory R. WangerBy Land LinksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpackYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactShow NotesNOT hike with an Organization or sponsorHike alone moreSimplified layering systemHike in Altra Lone PeaksDitch my pack lidBring my nice cameraHike slower for longerSpend less time in townNo more resupply boxesGarmin InReach instead of SPOT trackerBring my WifeNot obsess about upcoming miles

Paul Medel has spent a lifetime learning as much as he can about elk. From the time he first heard a bugle on a tape as a young man, he knew he had to know more and that’s what he set out to do. For over 20 years, Paul has been educating people on the ins and outs of how elk talk to each other and has helped countless hunters notch a tag during the fall hunting seasons.This episode isn’t about hunting though. It’s about Paul and his passion for elk and elk calling. Even if you don’t hunt elk or know nothing about it at all, I think you’ll have a hard time not smiling from ear to ear while you hear Paul talk about why he loves calling elk so much. His energy is contagious and his passion is deep.I believe it is good for us to learn as much as we can about the world around us. Even if you never blow through an elk call or hunt them in the fall, knowing what they sound like and what they mean when they make that sound puts you in a unique position to become PART OF THE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE. Elk are incredible creatures and the sounds they make are even more incredible. By the end of this episode, you might actually find yourself wanting to try calling one in yourself even if only to take a closer look.Enjoy!By Land,Emory R. Wangerby land linksLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpackCOMIC BOOK https://byland.co/comic-bookYOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gFACEBOOK GROUP https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/byland.coSAY HELLO!! https://byland.co/contactneed backpacking gear?2 FOOT ADVENTURES https://2footadventures.com/Show Notes and LinksIntroductionsPaul’s background growing upThe early days of calling elkHow Paul learned about how elk communicateLearning to communicate back to elkHow communicating with elk has enhanced the wilderness experienceWhat happens when to a skill your intention changesWhat’s so alluring about elk hunting?What keeps Paul going back for more each year?Pauls passion for the outdoorsWhat impacts calling responsesElk calling examplesHow to learn more about Paul and the Elk Nut Apphttp://www.elknut.com/https://apps.apple.com/us/app/elknut/id1231479425https://www.instagram.com/elknutoutdoorshttps://www.instagram.com/elknutapp

When my Wife and I first got pregnant, I was told by far too many people to count that our days hiking and wandering the woods would be brought to a screeching halt. Demoralizing is putting it lightly but lucky for me, my Wife and I were on the same page and determined to figure out how to pair hiking and backpacking with having kids.I’ve done a number of episodes prior to this one showcasing the experiences of others raising kids in the outdoors, but now that we have a solid year and a half under my belt, (yep, still a lot to learn) I thought I’d share what we’ve learned so far.By no means do we have it figured out. It’s a learning process each time we go out, but I think for the most part we’ve done a great job and had really positive experiences. Heck, we even backpacked with our little girl when she was 9 months old!If you have kids or want to have kids, I think you’ll find this episode pretty helpful and encouraging at the very least. If you don’t have kids, it’s still going to be helpful because you likely know someone who has them and is struggling to get them outside so now you’ll be able to offer some tips and tricks.Enjoy!By Land,Emory R. WangerLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK!If you’re new to backpacking and want to shorten the learning curve, I’m creating an ONLINE BACKPACKING COURSE that will get you going.The By Land Podcast Facebook GroupI have a facebook group specifically for listeners! See you in there!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/Show NotesWhen kids can ride in a kid carrierLongterrm thoughts on the Deuter Kid Comfort ProLayering up your babyWearing a kid carrierBring snacks!Backpacking with a kid and kid carrierDealing with the elementsMaking it a one person jobComfort for YOU is key!Final ThoughtsLinksSummit Strength 28 Day Challenge: https://www.summitstrength.com.au/28-day.html2 Foot Adventures Ultralight Backpacking Gear Shop: https://2footadventures.com/LEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpack

Dan Solsman found himself caught up in the rat race of collecting more gear rather than more knowledge. Each year would bring new gear that marketing told him he had to have in order to be successful. Realizing it he was on a never ending cycle of chasing the latest and greatest, he decided to stop the bus, get off, and begin chasing down more knowledge rather than more gear.We often thing new gear or better gear is going to make up for our lack of skills, dedication, and training, but all it does is put a dent in our wallets and leave us wanting something more.On this episode, Dan shares his thoughts on how he went from gathering gear to gathering knowledge and what’s happened since making the shift.By Land,Emory R. WangerLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK!If you’re new to backpacking and want to shorten the learning curve, I’m creating an ONLINE BACKPACKING COURSE that will get you going.The By Land Podcast Facebook GroupI have a Facebook group specifically for listeners! See you in there!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/Need gear? Try 2 Foot Adventures!2 Foot Adventures specializes in ultralight backpacking gear that will get you up the trail efficiently with everything you need. If you’re on the search for great gear, check them out!Show NotesIntroductionsDan’s philosophy on collecting gear instead of skillsHow streamlining your gear enhances the experienceDan’s decision NOT to wear camouflageOn how to be selective with gearOn working on your weaknessesLearning to be patientwhat you need versus what you think you needHow challenges can recalibrate your mindWe all start somewhereClosing thoughtsLinkshttps://www.instagram.com/dansolsman/

The Coronavirus is impacting the dreams and aspirations of a LOT of thru hikers so I wanted to take a few minutes to talk about how those impacted can cope with it. I also dive into backcountry decision making and why it’s such an important skill to have.Even if you’re not thru hiking this year, there are some concepts in this episode I think you may be able to apply to your own hikes and adventures.By Land,Emory R. WangerLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK!I’m creating an ONLINE BACKPACKING COURSE that will shorten your learning curve in more than half and get you going on the right path to a backcountry adventure.The By Land Podcast Facebook GroupI have a facebook group specifically for listeners! See you in there!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/Show NotesIntroductionThoughts for hikers who are missing their hikeThoughts for hikers who CAN hike but wonder if they SHOULD hikeThoughts on backcountry decision makingLinksYouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gBy Land Podcast Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/byland.coLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpack

Backpacking alone is NOT the easiest thing in the world to do. In fact, it can be downright uncomfortable or even scary at first, but if you’re willing to put in the work, being alone in the backcountry can be pretty darn incredible. On this episode of The By Land Podcast, I’m going to share with you what I’ve learned about backpacking and hiking alone and give you some tips and tricks on how you can get there yourself.I won’t just cover HOW to backpack alone, but WHY you’d want to so in the first place, and what my personal journey has been (successes and failures).Wherever you’re at in your backpacking journey, this episode will help you go from always having to hike in a group or with a partner, to embarking on an adventure by yourself.By Land,Emory R. WangerLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK!I’m creating an ONLINE BACKPACKING COURSE that will shorten your learning curve in more than half and get you going on the right path to a backcountry adventure.The By Land Podcast Facebook GroupI have a facebook group specifically for listeners! See you in there!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/Show NotesWhy you would want to backpack aloneBenefits of backpacking aloneMy personal journey learning to backpack aloneHow my failures prepared me for success being aloneMy first time really hiking alone for some distanceA turning point in being alone on the PCT8 Tips on how how to backpack, hike, and hunt alone1. Warm up in small stages2. Camp ALONE in a group3. Do backpacking things BY YOURSELF4. Go somewhere familar and don’t make it a big trip5. Distract your mind from the silence6. Choose a great camping location7. Tire yourself out!8. Bring what makes you feel safeFinal thoughtsLinksYouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gBy Land Podcast Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/byland.coLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpack

The Eco Defense Group is a non-profit organization whose mission is to help train and equip personnel on the front lines of the poaching war in Africa. On this episode, the President of EDGE,Nathan Edmondson, joins me to talk about the organization, what they do to fight poaching of African game animals, and what we can do to help.By Land,Emory R. WangerLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK!I’m creating an ONLINE BACKPACKING COURSE that will shorten your learning curve in more than half and get you going on the right path to a backcountry adventure.The By Land Podcast Facebook GroupI have a Facebook group specifically for listeners! See you there!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/Show NotesIntroductionsNathan’s background and how he got involvedWhere the passion for African animals came fromThe story behind EDGE and what they doUnderstanding the “value” of animals throughout the worldWhat it’s like telling the story of what’s happening in AfricaExperiencing AfricaHow you can help fight poaching in AfricaHow to followup with EDGELinkshttps://ecodefensegroup.org/https://www.instagram.com/ecodefensegrouphttp://www.facebook.com/ecodefensegrouphttps://twitter.com/ecodefensegroup

I never thought in a million years I’d ever be one to hike 20-30 miles in a single day. Those numbers are daunting if you’ve never done it and having felt the pain that can come from a 10 mile day I figured doubling or tripling that number was a feat I’d never be able to do. As it turns out, I CAN do big miles because I put into practice a specific process that works for me.On this episode, I’m going to dive in to my process for hiking big miles. From start to finish, I’ll walk you through my approach and even cove the benefits of hiking so many miles in a single day.If you dream of hiking a long trail or want to pack in more miles, more views, and more experiences into your weekend trips, this episode is for you!By Land,Emory R. WangerLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK!I’m creating an ONLINE BACKPACKING COURSE that will shorten your learning curve in more than half and get you going on the right path to a backcountry adventure.The By Land Podcast Facebook GroupI have a facebook group specifically for listeners! See you in there!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/Show NotesDefining what a “big” day isBenefits to hiking bigger milesMy step by step process for hiking big milesEfficiencySpeed versus timeHike in intervals and take scheduled breaksFeed your body (https://www.v2pnutrition.com/)Reducing pack weightSelf careProper planningClosing thoughtsLinksYouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChSSISEgIfwYz2cc0aHQj3gBy Land Podcast Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/byland.coLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK https://byland.co/learn-to-backpack

Have you ever had a drive to maybe start your own outdoor website, podcast, or even a YouTube channel? Over the past few years, I’ve had a lot of conversations with people who are thinking about it but don’t know if it’s worth doing or not. They have a voice, but either don’t know where to begin or just need a little nudge to get over the fear of putting themselves out there. If that’s you, this episode is for you!I asked my good friend Josh Kirchner on the show to talk about his journey with his website, Dialed In Hunter. What began as a simple passion project writing for free to those out there wanting a straightforward narrative on what it’s like to be a hunter and a real person has now turned into something where Josh ACTUALLY gets paid to write. You heard that correctly, Josh USED to write for FREE, but now he gets PAID to do it. How cool is that?!Josh and I dive into the weirdness of starting something online and discuss the personal benefits that can come of it even if you never see a single cent come your way.Enjoy!By Land,Emory R. WangerLEARN HOW TO BACKPACK!I’m creating an ONLINE BACKPACKING COURSE that will shorten your learning curve in more than half and get you going on the right path to a backcountry adventure.The By Land Podcast Facebook GroupI have a Facebook group specifically for listeners! See you in there!https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192723304224313/Show NotesIntroductionsHow Josh found himself writing about huntingExploring the idea of finding a “voice”Deciding what to share and talk about with an audienceJosh’s startup story and getting past the “weird” partOn being honest and genuineDreams versus realityWhat publications WANT to see from writersOn honing your craftFinding “why”When you know you can charge for your workFriendships that come from putting your work out thereJosh’s future goalsFinal thoughts and AdviceHow to follow up with Josh onlineLinkshttp://dialedinhunter.com/https://www.instagram.com/dialedinhunter/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6ItIjVnltPYvPWohOPk0dQ