Stay ConnectedFrom the Appalachian Trail to the Pacific Crest and everything in between. Backpacker Radio is a show all about the wonderful world that is thru-hiking and long distance backpacking.
Co-hosts, Zach “Badger” Davis and Juliana “Chaunce” Chauncey muse on the backpacking life and the latest from the trail every other week. Topics include but are not limited to news, trail culture, interviews, gear, advice, and all you can eat buffets.
Copyright: © The Trek
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Jamie Lambert. We learn why Jamie doesn't have a trail name, and why it's definitely not Strap On, what it's like to thru-hike with your sister- which she did on the PCT in 2018, what it is about thru-hiking that makes it so addictive for her- having taken on long hikes every year over the last 8 seasons, what it's like to become social media famous, and much more.
We wrap the show with an overview from day one of Trail Days, some new legislation that could result in finally completing the CDT, why a section of the PCT has been closed for MYLFs, our BS TED talks, and the triple crown of words we'll never pronounce correctly.
Topo Athletic: Use code "TREKSPRING15" at topoathletic.com.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKER20" for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.
Ombraz: Score a $30 discount by sending a DM to https://www.instagram.com/ombraz/, and letting them know that Backpacker Radio sent you.
Betterment: Learn more at betterment.com/trek.
[divider]
Interview with Jamie Lambert
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:00 - Trail Days Day 1 Recap
00:11:00 - Introducing Jamie
00:14:00 - How did you decide to hike the PCT with your sister?
00:18:45 - What's it like working for an orthodontist?
00:23:18 - What was it like to hike with your sister?
00:30:00 - Discussion about the Colorado Trail
00:35:08 - What is it about thru-hiking that you love?
00:37:45 - Have you hit a fork in the road feeling about thru-hiking?
00:41:10 - If you had to settle somewhere, where would you choose?
00:45:15 - What's the brief overview of the Tour du Mont Blanc?
00:47:15 - Why do people hike counter clockwise?
00:51:20 - Discussion about lodging and towns along the TMB
00:53:00 - Are there places along the trail where you could stay a few days?
00:55:10 - Discussion about guiding services on the TMB
00:56:51 - What time of year would you recommend?
01:00:30 - What changes in items did you carry?
01:01:45 - When did you know you wanted to hike the CDT too?
01:05:22 - Discussion about hiking the AT third
01:08:40 - How do you handle people fangirling around you?
01:11:02 - What's been the highlight of the AT for you so far?
01:12:05 - What's the most embarrassing thing that's happened to you while hiking?
01:14:05 - What's the scariest thing that's happened to you while hiking?
01:18:00 - Do you have any advice for solo female backpackers?
01:22:25 - What's your biggest beginner blunder?
01:24:44 - What do your resupplies look like these days?
01:30:00 - What shoes are you using?
01:33:30 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance enhancing or backpacking hack?
01:35:25 - Reminders: Take our survey! Listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon and apply to blog for the Trek!
Segments
Trek Propaganda:
QOTD: If you had to give a TED Talk on something you're not a real expert on—but could fake it—what topic would you choose?
Triple Crown of words you'll never pronounce correctly
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.
Sign up for the Trek's newsletter
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.Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.
Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.
Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.
Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti "Lumberjack", Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are giving you the lowdown on everything to do with lightning safety. We are joined by Charlie Woodrum who is the Preparedness and Resilience Lead with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service. We learn all about the biggest myths regarding lightning safety (including how metal trekking poles aren't an added risk while backpacking), clear guidance on minimizing risk when caught in a thunderstorm, telltale signs of when the weather is going to turn, at what distance from a lightning strike are you considered safe, and much more.
We wrap the show with some new YouTube videos from The Trek, the scariest weather Zach and Chaunce have ever encountered, Zach's new stupidest thing of the week: fork edition, and the triple crown of juices.
LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKER20" for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.
Shady Rays: Use code "TREK" for 35% off at shadyrays.com.
Betterment: Learn more at betterment.com/trek.
[divider]
Interview with Charlie Woodrum
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:20 - Reminders: listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek!
00:11:15 - Introducing Charlie
00:12:20 - Tell us about NOAA
00:14:02 - How did you initially get into weather?
00:16:56 - Do meteorologists have certain traits?
00:19:03 - What is the perfect date for weather?
00:22:50 - Are you ever bored when the weather is calm?
00:23:35 - Are there hot topics in the meteorology community?
00:25:57 - Do you have any crazy storm chasing stories?
00:34:11 - What are the biggest misconceptions about lightning?
00:36:28 - What should you do when hiking above treeline?
00:38:00 - Is the timing between thunder and lightning real?
00:39:24 - What are your recommended weather apps?
00:40:40 - How far away should you be from lightning strikes to be considered safe?
00:41:35 - Do you find that free weather apps are sufficient?
00:42:50 - What are some of the early signs of a thunderstorm forming?
00:44:11 - What are the cues for specific locations?
00:46:45 - Do you not have to worry about lightning before you hear thunder?
00:47:56 - Where should you be when in a forest?
00:50:00 - Is the lightning crouch still recommended?
00:51:30 - What if there's no treeline around?
00:53:30 - Where should you put your tent?
00:57:00 - What percentage of lightning strikes are fatal?
00:59:40 - What do you do if someone gets struck by lightning?
01:02:05 - Should hikers be concerned about metal objects they're carrying?
01:03:30 - What about bodies of water?
01:04:40 - What are some obvious questions that we haven't asked?
01:06:35 - What should you do if you feel tingly or there's static in the air?
01:08:27 - At what percentage of forecasted storms would you feel comfortable going outside?
01:11:00 - When is it safe to go back up to the treeline?
01:12:00 - Are there places where weather is harder to predict?
01:14:05 - What impact do you think AI will have on the future of forecasting?
01:16:16 - Are there any tech innovations that you're excited about?
01:17:30 - Where can people keep up with you?
Segments
Trek Propaganda: Is Hiking the Appalachian Trail Solo a Terrible Idea? By Katie Jackson
QOTD: What's the scariest weather you've ever encountered?
Triple Crown of juices
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.
Sign up for the Trek's newsletter
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.Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.
Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.
Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.
Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti "Lumberjack", Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Jonathan Thomas, known on trail as Janis Joplin. Janis Joplin is a thru-hiker, FKT record holder, D1 collegiate track and field athlete, former news cameraman, Boston Marathon bombing survivor, CDT trail angel, and owner of Exotic Pax, an innovative, vest-style backpack for thru-hikers handmade in Chama, New Mexico. This episode covers a lot of ground, including the many times he's narrowly escaped death, what is was like growing up in New Orleans, being a D1 collegiate athlete, what brought him into the world of FKTs and how FKT athletes are more possessive over their records than they might lead on, what it's like to run an outfitter in a sleepy CDT town, and the inspiration and process that goes into his unique backpacks.
We wrap the show with a reversal on the closure of a campground key to JMT and PCT hikers, our takes on who'd win in a fight between 100 men and one silverback gorilla, and the Triple Crown of items you geniously stash in many strategic locations.
Topo Athletic: Use code "TREKSPRING15" at topoathletic.com.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKER20" for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.
Betterment: Learn more at betterment.com/trek.
Burgeon Outdoor: Use code "BACKPACKER15" for 15% off at burgeonoutdoor.com.
Bear Mattress: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 40% off at bearmattress.com.
[divider]
Interview with Jonathan Thomas aka JJ
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:34 - Reminders: Take our survey, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek!
00:09:25 - Introducing JJ
00:10:28 - What's it like growing up in New Orleans?
00:18:10 - Tell us about working for a news channel
00:21:40 - What's the most interesting scene you ever shot from?
00:24:30 - What were the highlights from the local news industry?
00:26:50 - What events did you do at LSU?
00:30:00 - Discussion about biking in Baton Rouge
00:34:20 - What personality differences were there between swimmers and runners?00:35:25 - Why did you walk on to the team at LSU?
00:37:35 - Tell us about running the Boston marathon
00:40:40 - How did you get into hiking?
00:43:20 - How did the PCT compare to running?
00:44:12 - How have you processed the trauma you've gone through?
00:48:27 - Did the calm on a long trail draw you in?
00:50:10 - Tell us about attempting to do an FKT in the middle of your PCT thru-hike
00:53:40 - What are the differences between the different distances of running?
00:59:25 - What are the differences between preparing for an FKT and for road running?
01:03:40 - How do you train for the unexpected?
01:12:15 - What's the wildest hallucination you've had?
01:17:00 - Is it difficult to maintain motivation during your FKT attempt?
01:26:20 - Discussion about JJ's Oregon FKT
01:29:30 - Wheel spin
01:36:25 - Tell us about the Oregon FKT
01:39:50 - Why did you carry a cast iron on the trail?
01:45:40 - Tell us about your interactions with foxes
01:49:45 - What other meals do you make on trail?
01:56:20 - What's the inspiration for your company?
02:03:40 - What are the main stitches used in backpacking gear?
02:09:12 - Discussion about Exotic Pax
02:12:30 - How did Tate find you to make his pack?
02:16:27 - Tell us about the process with making custom packs
02:18:00 - Which model of backpack is the most popular?
02:20:40 - Tell us about the zippered pocket
02:22:42 - Explain the vest functionality of your backpack
02:30:00 - Chaunce tries on the backpack
02:33:30 - How do you do the sizing?
02:37:20 - How did you decide to go for the PCT FKT this year?
02:39:00 - Where can people keep up with you?
02:39:48 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack?
Segments
Trek Propaganda: Yosemite Campground Closure Will Disrupt Backpackers — Including JMT and PCT Thru-Hikers by Katie Jackson
QOTD: Who wins in a fight, 1 gorilla vs. 100 men?
Triple Crown of items you geniously stash in many strategic locations
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.
Sign up for the Trek's newsletter
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.Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.
Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.
Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.
Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti "Lumberjack", Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Niki DiGaetano, known on trail as Phoenix. In addition to being a long distance backpacker, the bulk of today's conversation centers around Niki's work as a death doula. We learn, of course, what that work entails, how her experiences working with those at the end of their lives have reframed how she lives hers, advice for those currently processing the death of a loved one, dealing with anxieties around death, and much more.
We wrap the show with how the Appalachian Trail has changed over the last 10 years, ridiculous features we'd like to see added to a backpack, and the triple crown of last meal orders.
LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKER20" for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.
Burgeon Outdoor: Use code "BACKPACKER15" for 15% off at burgeonoutdoor.com.
Betterment: Learn more at betterment.com/trek.
Shady Rays: Use code "TREK" for 50% off two or more pairs of sunglasses at shadyrays.com.
[divider]
Interview with Niki DiGaetano
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:10 - Reminders: Sign up for the Trek's newsletter, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek!
00:08:40 - Introducing Niki
00:10:19 - What is a death doula?
00:12:07 - How did you get into this field?
00:15:10 - How do you not get weighed down by the work?
00:17:05 - What does the training look like?
00:21:10 - What is the top piece of advice you have for preparing for a loved one's passing?
00:23:10 - How do you help people cope with death anxiety?
00:25:30 - How often are people prepared for death?
00:29:42 - How does religion and spirituality play into your work?
00:31:30 - What do you think comes next?
00:35:50 - What advice do you have for people in the grieving process?
00:38:50 - What do you think about the 5 Stages of Grief?
00:41:30 - What are the common regrets of people who are dying?
00:45:30 - How has your work intersected with hiking long trails?
00:47:47 - Tell us about your past relationship
00:55:20 - How did the trail help you grow?
00:56:00 - How did you meet your current partner?
01:00:30 - What are your plans for the future in terms of your career and hiking?
01:02:57 - How do you balance offering advice to your friends and family?
01:05:00 - Discussion about death anxiety
01:07:10 - Do you have any advice for someone debating about doing a thru-hike?
01:09:20 - Tell us about the book you're working on
01:10:37 - Stay Salty Question: What's your hottest take in the world of backpacking - or death?
01:12:23 - Where can people keep up with you?
Segments
Trek Propaganda
QOTD: If you could add one ridiculous feature to a backpack—purely for entertainment—what would it be?
Triple Crown of last meal orders
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.
Sign up for the Trek's newsletter
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.Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.
Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.
Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.
Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti "Lumberjack", Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, and brought to you by Topo Athletic, we're coming to you live from Austin, Texas with our guest, Paul Magnanti, aka Mags, aka Pmags. A longtime co-host of The Trail Show and a triple crowner, Pmags has spent decades exploring trails across the country, with a special love for the Southwest. We dive into the future of public lands, hear some of his hot takes on gear, including his love for 100-weight fleece pullovers, his beef with sun hoodies, and where hikers tend to overspend, and get a look at his go-to "snivel gear." Pmags also shares stories from some of his lesser-known adventures, including the Ring the Peak Trail, A Walk Across Southern Utah, the Northern New Mexico Loop, the Grand Moab Route, and the Southeast Utah Group Circuit.
We wrap out the show with a rundown of the best sections of the Appalachian Trail (spoiler: #1 shocked our live audience), a "stupid thing of the week" (lost phone edition), a "gross or not gross" (chapstick edition), and the triple crown of trail towns.
Topo Athletic: Use code "TREKWINTER15" at topoathletic.com.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKER20" for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.
Betterment: Learn more at betterment.com/trek.
Burgeon Outdoor: Use code "BACKPACKER15" for 15% off at burgeonoutdoor.com.
Purple Rain Skirts: Use code "BACKPACKER20" for 20% off at purplerainskirts.com.
[divider]
Interview with Paul Magnanti
Time stamps & Questions
00:07:05 - Reminders: Sign up for the Trek's newsletter, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek! Trek booth location
00:10:00 - Introducing PMags
00:10:40 - What's your backpacking origin story?
00:12:17 - Have you backpacked in Texas?
00:14:00 - How many people in Rhode Island backpack?
00:16:25 - Tell us about being a "structured rambler" and living in Moab
00:19:20 - What advice do you have for thru-hikers to incorporate more rambling into their hikes?
00:21:30 - What's your backpacking resume?
00:24:15 - What's your take on what's happening with public lands?
00:28:47 - What do you look for in a headlamp?
00:35:00 - Tell us your opinion about sun hoodies
00:40:40 - Have you had a midlife crisis yet?
00:41:30 - Tell us about your wife!
00:43:22 - Are you worried about microplastics?
00:45:02 - What camera do you use?
00:50:00 - Discussion about The Trail Show
00:51:40 - Tell us about the 100-weight pullover fleece
00:56:38 - Tell us about snivel gear
00:57:40 - What's your solo baseweight for a typical trip?
01:00:18 - What's your take on trowels?
01:03:05 - What's your take on campfires in the west?
01:09:55 - Tell us about the Ring the Peak Trail
01:13:50 - Tell us about A Walk Across Southern Utah
01:16:20 - Discussion about the beer in Utah
01:17:20 - Tell us about the cultures of Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico
01:20:35 - How much research do you do prior to your ramblings?
01:22:08 - What are some places that people should know about?
01:23:40 - Have you seen any megafauna in etchings?
01:27:13 - Tell us about the Northern New Mexico Loop
01:30:35 - Tell us about the South East Utah Group (SEUG) Circuit
01:34:15 - How do you prepare for paddling trips?
01:35:50 - What's your most embarrassing moment while backpacking?
01:36:45 - What's your scariest encounter with wildlife?
01:37:45 - What's your most recent mistake?
01:39:50 - Fuck Marry Kill: Utah, Colorado, New Mexico
01:41:40 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack?
01:42:40 - Where can people keep up with you?
Segments
Listener Q&A
Trek Propaganda:
QOTD: What's a hill you're willing to die on that has nothing to do with hiking?
Stupid Thing of the Week
Gross or Not Gross
Triple Crown of trail towns
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.
Sign up for the Trek's newsletter
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.Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.
Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.
Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.
Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Ethan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Lauren F, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Benjy Lowry, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti "Lumberjack", Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are bringing you yet another edition of beginner backpacking mistakes. Today's panel includes the debut of Jess Stone, 2024 AT and LT thru-hiker, and The Trek's Community and Marketing Manager. We bring you 9 brand new thru-hiking pitfalls to avoid, including tips on sending mail drops, how to avoid letting small problems turn into big problems, dealing with toxic off-trail relationships before departing, hydration tips, why you shouldn't invite friends and family on your trip, and much more.
We wrap the show with a call out to some Trek bloggers, the definitively correct orientation for silverware in the dishwasher, the triple crown of good horse names, and what not to eat before mailing important letters.
LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKER20" for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.
Burgeon Outdoors: Use code "BACKPACKER15" for 15% off at burgeonoutdoor.com.
Shady Rays: Use code "TREK" for 35% off at shadyrays.com.
[divider]
Panel with Zach, Chaunce, and Jess
Time stamps & Questions
00:06:20 - Reminders: Say hi to us at Trail Days, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, apply to blog for the Trek!
00:14:03 - Introducing Jess
00:17:32 - Zach's Mistake #1: Overplanning, especially maildrops and daily mileage
00:24:00 - Chaunce's Mistake #1: Not looking up LNT principles before your hike
00:29:00 - Jess's Mistake #1: Not drinking enough water
00:32:20 - Zach's Mistake #2: Letting small problems become big problems
00:41:15 - Chaunce's Mistake #2: If you don't like who you're dating at home, consider dumping them
00:47:20 - Jess's Mistake #2: Inviting your friends/family to hike with you when you've been out for months
00:54:40 - Zach's Mistake #3: Not considering the weight/space of everything
01:00:40 - Chaunce's Mistake #3: Not taking photos of your stuff
01:08:45 - Jess's Mistake #3: Marrying your trail family
01:23:15 - Stay Salty Question: What's your hottest take in the world of backpacking?
01:28:20 - How was the AT?
Segments
Trek Propaganda: 20 Trek Bloggers You Should Be Following in 2025 by Jess
QOTD: Silverware up or down in the dishwasher?
Hiker Trash Thing of the Week
Triple Crown of good horse names
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.
Sign up for the Trek's newsletter
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.Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.
Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.
Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.
Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason "The Snail" Snailer, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti "Lumberjack", Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Atheltic, we are joined by Jay "Meat Grinder" France. Meat Grinder is a thru-hiker, author, and 31-year veteran of the Air Force, having completed 10 deployments and graduated from Army Ranger School in the process. Jay details his military background, including some key similarities and differences relative to thru-hiking, how he used vlogging as a way to stay in touch with his sons on trail, and the hilarious blood nipple origin story of his trail name. Meat Grinder also recently served as a volunteer advocate for Hike The Hill, an annual event where trail advocates meet with U.S. Congress to promote policies and funding that support trails, public lands, and outdoor recreation. Jay offers some important advice for those who want to advocate for public lands, especially relevant in today's climate.
We wrap the show with the top AT hostels, our triple crown of airplane snacks, and two completely unnecessary improvements to the Appalachian Trail.
Topo Athletic: Use code "TREKSPRING15" at topoathletic.com.
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Purple Rain Skirts: Use code "BACKPACKER20" for 20% off at purplerainskirts.com.
Burgeon Outdoors: Use code "BACKPACKER15" for 15% off at burgeonoutdoor.com.
[divider]
Interview with Jay "Meat Grinder" France
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:42 - Reminders: Take our survey! Say hi to us at Trail Days, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek!
00:09:33 - Introducing Jay
00:10:14 - When did you almost ambush AT hikers?
00:15:25 - Tell us about Army Ranger School
00:20:07 - Did you see alligators in Florida?
00:22:13 - How did you decide to join the military?
00:24:07 - Fuck Marry Kill: Jay's US assignment locations
00:25:50 - Tell us about being a canine officer
00:29:44 - Tell us about your deployments after 911
00:32:25 - When did you have kids amidst your deployments?
00:33:10 - What were some of the terrifying experiences?
00:35:50 - What do they teach you in Army Ranger School?
00:41:20 - Do you think you could have passed early on in your military years?
00:45:25 - Tell us about hiking the Wonderland Trail in 2003
00:48:25 - Do you have tips for people from the military getting started hiking?
00:49:40 - How did you decide to go on that hike?
00:51:10 - Did you still enjoy the hike?
00:52:30 - What led to your retirement from the military?
00:55:25 - How did you get your trail name?
01:03:00 - How did your family react to your decision to hike the PCT?
01:06:15 - How were the snow and fires on the PCT?
01:15:30 - How did you handle skipping miles due to the fires?
01:20:18 - What was your social environment like on the trail?
01:24:27 - Do you think unplugging was good for you?
01:26:55 - Did you know right away you'd do another thru-hike?
01:29:15 - Did the ranger school prepare you for the CT?
01:34:25 - Are your sons interested in hiking with you?
01:37:25 - Tell us about the Tahoe Rim Trail in 2023
01:40:12 - Tell us about your book
01:43:40 - What aspect of the book have you gotten the most positive feedback on?
01:47:00 - What were some of the mental health challenges you dealt with?
01:54:27 - Tell us about being a Hike the Hill advocate for the PCTA
01:59:38 - Do you have advice for people who want to get involved?
02:05:52 - Where can people go to keep up with you?
02:06:50 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack?
Segments
Trek Propaganda: The Best Hostels to Visit on the Appalachian Trail in 2025 by Katie Jackson
QOTD: If you could make one completely unnecessary improvement to the Appalachian Trail, what would it be?
Triple Crown of airplane snacks
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.
Sign up for the Trek's newsletter
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.Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.
Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.
Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.
Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Jason "The Snail" Snailer, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti "Lumberjack", Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Tate Dobson, known on trail as Pyro. Tate is a certified wildcard. It's not just that he's hiked the PCT, AT, Long Trail, and Te Araroa, but how he's done it, including hiking the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail spending $1,000 (alongside Quadzilla), hiking long stretches with carrying a Jansport pack, another stretch using tote bag, hiking the R2R2R eating only Motts Fruit snacks and the 100-Mile Wilderness consuming only maple syrup and a jar of peanut butter. He's run a pair of ultramarathons around a roundabout, he's run a beer mile with his mom, and has accomplished another mile consuming four shots of tequila and a tube of toothpaste. In other words, strap in.
We wrap the show with some bucket list hikes you can do over a long weekend, the triple crown of stuipd word spellings, a listener poop story, and more.
LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.
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Vaer Watches: Check out Vaer Watches at vaerwatches.com.
Bear Mattress: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 40% off at bearmattress.com.
Burgeon Outdoors: Use code "BACKPACKER15" for 15% off at burgeonoutdoor.com.
[divider]
Interview with Tate "Pyro" Dobson
Time stamps & Questions
00:06:34 - Reminders: Check out The Trek and Backpacker Radio on Youtube, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek!
00:9:40 - Introducing Tate
00:11:40 - How do Chaunce and Tate know each other?
00:14:20 - How did you get into the outdoors?
00:15:11 - What trajectory led to dropping out of high school and college and how did you start thru-hiking?
00:18:25 - Tell us about your 2019 PCT hike?
00:20:55 - What's your perspective on continuous footpaths?
00:22:53 - Where was your head at when you got off the PCT?
00:24:03 - When did you next get on trail?
00:25:37 - Are you a known figure in Durango?
00:28:00 - How did you get on the Colorado Trail?
00:31:22 - Any standout stories from the Colorado Trail?
00:31:51 - Do you have any poop stories?
00:35:40 - How was the Sierra High Route?
00:42:00 - Tell us about the PCT in 2022
00:44:45 - When did things start to get weird?
00:53:15 - Did you hike the whole trail in sandals?
00:54:20 - What other weird things did you do on the PCT?
00:56:10 - Where did you get your marathon idea?
00:59:40 - Did you feel any asymmetric pain afterwards?
01:01:07 - Tell us about your beer mile
01:02:50 - What is the toothpaste and tequila mile?
01:05:45 - Did you see any interesting people during the roundabout run?
01:07:45 - Tell us about your other impractical backpacks
01:11:40 - Tell us about your TA hike
01:18:07 - What's your favorite mom story?
01:19:27 - How'd you clean off the mud?
01:22:50 - How do you keep losing toothbrushes?
01:24:36 - Tell us about starting the AT last year
01:26:35 - What was the budget challenge you did?
01:28:30 - What tips do you have for hiking on a budget?
01:33:24 - What'd you do while Quadzilla was in the hospital?
01:34:30 - What's the craziest story from the AT?
01:39:30 - When did you stop carrying the tote bag?
01:42:05 - Any fun stories from the Long Trail?
01:48:20 - Tell us about the Rim to Rim to Rim
01:51:40 - What plans do you have for the CDT?
01:53:20 - Stay Salty Question: What's your hottest take in the world of backpacking?
01:54:55 - What's your dream sponsor?
Segments
Trek Propaganda: 33 Bucket-List Hikes You Can Do in a Long Weekend by Katie Jackson
QOTD: Would you rather never get blisters again but have to hike in Crocs, or always have the best gear but get a new blister every day?
Triple Crown of stupid word spellings
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.
Sign up for the Trek's newsletter
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.Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.
Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.
Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.
Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti "Lumberjack", Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we're joined by Maytal Agasi, known on trail as Carrot Top. In this episode, we learn how a road trip in a mid-size SUV with her two brothers sparked Carrot Top's entry into the world of thru-hiking. She shares how she benefitted massively from both solo and group thru-hikes. We chat about her time on the JMT, Colorado Trail, and PCT, and we take a deeper dive into her most recent trek on the Camino de Costa Rica, covering standout cultural elements, landscape highlights, the incredibly muggy weather, rich wildlife (including venomous snakes and sloths), managing language barriers, unique logistical challenges, and more.
A quick note: I made a big time dumb guy mistake. About 30 minutes into the interview, I realized our audio recorder wasn't rolling. The first 36 minutes of the interview have lower audio quality than usual. That portion still offers important context about Maytal's journey into the outdoors, but if it's too distracting, the audio quality improves at the 36-minute mark of the interview.
Trigger warning: This interview includes discussion of suicide. If this is a sensitive topic for you, we recommend skipping ahead to the point where the audio improves—again 36 minutes into the interview.
We wrap the show with another clue about our super secret special guest for the upcoming live podcast in Austin, what ridiculous outfit we'd hike in forever, the Triple Crown of Colorado stereotypes, and a disturbing story of an international hiker who was detained, deported, and banned from the U.S. on her way to hike the Arizona Trail.
Topo Athletic: Use code "TREKWINTER15" at topoathletic.com.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKER20" for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.
Vaer Watches: Check out Vaer Watches at vaerwatches.com.
AG1: Get your free $79 gift at drinkag1.com/backpacker.
[divider]
Interview with Maytal "Carrottop" Agasi
Time stamps & Questions
00:06:10 - Reminders: Sign up for the Trek's newsletter, join us for our live show in Austin, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek!
00:10:00 - Audio note
00:12:10 - Introducing Maytal
00:15:30 - How did you get your trail name?
00:16:05 - What does a garden educator do?
00:17:24 - What is the best plant?
00:19:40 - How did you get into hiking?
00:21:23 - Why don't you fight with your siblings?
00:24:00 - Discussion about Maytal's roadtrip
00:25:23 - Are your parents hippie-adjacent?
00:27:08 - What's your favorite on-trail meal to make?
00:30:50 - Do you taste the meals before dehydrating them?
00:32:44 - How did you decide to hike the JMT?
00:34:10 - What happened to your dad?
00:38:30 - How do you process things as well as enjoy the trail while hiking?
00:40:50 - Was it intimidating to hike mostly solo on your first hike?
00:46:17 - Are there any fats that are safe to dehydrate?
00:46:55 - Did you know right away you wanted to do more hikes?
00:49:45 - Have you butt heads with anyone on trail?
00:52:00 - How did you get your gear dialed in for the JMT?
00:55:00 - Discussion about stool sample tests
00:57:45 - Were you happy to hike the CT with a friend or did you ever want space?
01:00:50 - What did you like about Salida?
01:03:03 - When did you decide to hike the PCT?
01:05:30 - Tell us about almost falling off a mountain
01:10:35 - What was it like to go through the Sierra twice?
01:12:45 - How did you learn about the Camino de Costa Rica?
01:15:57 - Are guides required?
01:16:50 - How long is the trail and what is the mileage like each day?
01:20:30 - Do you pay the host families?
01:23:40 - How did you communicate that you were vegetarian?
01:24:50 - Did you have cell service?
01:26:00 - Do you know how many people have hiked this trail?
01:28:30 - What was the weather like?
01:30:25 - What were the landscape highlights of the trail?
01:38:00 - Discussion about wildlife
01:41:05 - Were there other opportunities to eat in town?
01:42:12 - What are the biggest cultural differences?
01:45:55 - What would you like to relay to the listeners of Backpacker Radio?
01:47:38 - Peak Performance Question: What is your top performance-enhancing or backpacking hack?
Segments
Trek Propaganda
QOTD: If you could only hike in one ridiculous outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Triple Crown of Colorado stereotypes
Thing of the Week
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.
Sign up for the Trek's newsletter
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.Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.
Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.
Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.
Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti "Lumberjack", Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by author, backpacker, and our resident alien expert, Mike Clelland. We made an honest attempt to discuss ultralight backpacking during this one, and although we do touch on the subject some, the bulk of this conversation is dedicated to owls, aliens, and all things paranormal activity. Mike has become the preeminent expert of the interplay between owls and UFO citings, which may not sound like a thing, however Mike has accrued a lifetime of stories from folks who have experiences that say that it is. If owls and aliens don't sound like your jam, we encourage you to give this one a shot, as Mike's long standing intense passion for these subjects turns out to be awfully contagious; Chaunce and I are thoroughly entertained. We also discuss the pros and cons of traditional vs. self-publishing, which Mike has done both, but really this is mostly aliens and owls.
Warning: This episode includes discussions of rape, death, and child loss in the context of aliens. If any of these topics are triggering, we encourage you to skip this interview.
We wrap the show with the news that the Backpacker Radio crew is headed to AT Trail Days, news of a woman who set the overall FKT on the Florida Trail, Knorr Side recipe recommendations, the shortest roast in the history of roasts, what animal we'd train to be our hiking companion, the triple crown of memes, dog's cornchip paws, and more.
LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKER20" for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.
[divider]
Interview with Mike Clelland
Time stamps & Questions
00:09:15 - Reminders: Sign up for the Trek's newsletter, join us for our live show in Austin, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek!
00:13:19 - Introducing Mike
00:14:05 - What have you been up to since we last had you on?
00:17:00 - Fuck Marry Kill: Podcasting, Writing Books, and Illustrating
00:21:23 - What are the pros and cons of self-publishing?
00:26:16 - Give us the primer on why you think owls are special
00:31:35 - What are the general trends of people's owl sightings?
00:37:24 - Have you noticed commonalities between the people?
00:41:04 - Owl + UFO story
00:47:20 - In your opinion, what are aliens?
00:49:18 - What do you personally believe?
00:57:25 - What do you believe in terms of these common alien theories?
01:01:25 - What motivates the aliens?
01:04:06 - Are the aliens visiting intentionally or passing by?
01:06:45 - How does one become owl-ready?
01:09:45 - Why don't the aliens visit you all the time?
01:13:24 - Do you consider yourself a healer?
01:15:04 - Do you still cut the handles off the toothbrush?
01:16:05 - What got you into ultralight backpacking and inspired you to write the book?
01:23:35 - What types of trips did you go on?
01:24:50 - What are your strongest convictions about ultralight backpacking?
01:30:45 - How do you go ultralight despite having fears about the outdoors?
01:35:46 - How did you get into owls and UFOs?
01:47:00 - Chaunce's story
01:55:55 - Where do you think that voice came from?
02:02:40 - Return to Mike's story
02:07:03 - Are you still trying to process what happened and seeking the why?
02:08:20 - What happened on that day?
02:24:30 - Why isn't there clearer evidence of all this?
02:26:50 - What's the difference between paranormal activity and hallucination?
02:29:44 - What is your answer to why are you here?
02:31:37 - Do you think we're living in a simulation and what happens after we die?
02:37:30 - Mike's hypnosis session
02:52:30 - Do you think you're an alien scribe?
02:56:00 - What percent of you thinks you're an alien?
02:59:52 - What are your closing thoughts?
03:02:17 - Stay Salty Question: What's your hottest take in the world of backpacking? Or, what's something you'd add to ultralight backpacking? Or, what tip do you violate the most?
03:08:10 - Where can people keep up with you?
Segments
Trek Propaganda:
QOTD: If you could train any animal to be your hiking companion, what would it be and what special skills would it have?
The Shortest Roast of All Time
Triple Crown of internet memes
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.
Sign up for the Trek's newsletter
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.Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.
Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.
Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.
Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Alex Kindle, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Carl Houde, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Eathan Harwell, Gillian Daniels, Greg Alsop, Greg Knight, Greg Martin, Greg McDaniel, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Brett Vandiver, Chris Pyle, David, David Neal, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Greg Floravanti "Lumberjack", Jack Greene, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, Ruth S, and Spencer Hinson.
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