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, we are joined by Christine Reed. Christine is a backpacker, climber, runner, and author. Her book, Alone in Wonderland, is a memoir covering not only her thru-hike of the Wonderland Trail, but also the emotional and gripping story of her life and foray into backpacking. Today's subject matter is vast, including but not limited to Christine's mom unexpectedly passing during her attempted AT thru-hike, polyamory, van life, logistics of thru-hiking the Wonderland Trail, and how Christine deals with POTS- a medical acronym that I refuse to butcher but it pertains to reduced blood volume and makes exercising much more challenging.
We wrap the show with advice from AT ridge runners, a triple crown of old people's names, a fresh stupid thing of the week, and more!
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Organifi: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "TREKPOD10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
Treecard: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 1,000 free reward points at treecard.org.
[divider]
Interview with Christine Reed
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:05 - QOTD: How's dry January going?
00:12:24 - Reminders: Check out our Stay Feral shirts!
00:16:07 - Introducing Christine
00:17:55 - How and when did you get interested in the AT?
00:19:42 - What was your preparation strategy?
00:20:44 - What were the circumstances in your life at that time?
00:22:10 - How did you handle your parents not being supportive of your hike?
00:26:11 - What did the right gear look like in 2013-2015?
00:28:18 - Did your parents eventually warm up to the idea?
00:30:52 - What was it like to get back on trail after that?
00:33:00 - Tell us about the end of your hike and how you felt about it.
00:37:23 - What did your life look like after the AT?
00:39:33 - Have you ever considered going back to hike more of the AT?
00:41:05 - What was the inspiration to hike the Wonderland Trail?
00:43:45 - How many caches do you need for the Wonderland Trail?
00:44:34 - Tell us about the themes of isolation and loneliness in your book.
00:47:28 - Tell us about polyamory.
00:56:30 - How did polyamory interact with your hiking experiences?
00:59:25 - Were you always good at setting boundaries?
01:00:12 - Is there a difference between perceptions of men and women in polyamory?
01:01:52 - Tell us about the process of getting a walk up permit for the Wonderland Trail.
01:04:23 - Discussion about the Wonderland Trail campsites
01:06:10 - What led you to make this hike the subject of a book?
01:10:00 - Tell us about getting your spine fused.
01:13:21 - Is the PT all you needed to hike without issue?
01:14:34 - What is POTS and how does it affect your hiking?
01:18:36 - Does POTS put you at higher risk for a cardiac event?
01:21:57 - Are there any medications for POTS?
01:26:00 - How did the Ouachita FKT attempt go?
01:31:26 - Can you compare and contrast the physical experience of doing a FKT or a 50K?
01:33:13 - What are some of your favorite hiking foods?
01:35:23 - What should someone know about vanlife who's considering it?
01:37:40 - What challenges often catch people off guard?
01:42:08 - Do you have any other vanlife hacks?
01:44:03 - Do you have any simple products you recommend for vanlifers?
01:46:06 - What's on the horizon for you?
SEGMENTS
Backcountry Meal Critics: Bushka's Kitchen
Stupid Thing of the Week
Trek Propaganda
Triple Crown of old person names
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross.
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.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by Good To-Go, the studio is transforming into a love lodge as we interview not one but two Hiker Trash couples. Liz and Matt (aka Chuckles and Frisky) and Nat and Matt (aka Bart and Party Tart) give us a glimpse into how their relationships came to be, the highlights and lowlights of thru-hiking with a significant other, and some of their top trail-tested advice for maintaining a relationship on trail and off. The format for today is chaotic yet fun, as we kick things off with a round of The Newlywed Game and transition into rotating sessions of seven minutes in heaven. I promise that will make sense here shortly.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Good To-Go: Use code "TREK25" for 25% off at goodto-go.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "TREKPOD10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
[divider]
Interview with Liz, Matt, Nat, and Matt
Time stamps & Questions
00:04:45 - QOTD: How frequently do you have dreams that your relationship ends and wake up panicked?
00:09:45 - Introducing the interviewees
00:11:52 - The Newlywed Game: Nat and Matt
00:29:07 - The Newlywed Game: Liz and Matt
00:30:30 - Outa Ware pants
00:41:20 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 1: Nat and Matt
00:43:08 - Give us the full rundown of your PCT hike in 2019.
00:47:04 - Were you apprehensive going into the PCT?
00:48:30 - What is it like prepping for a thru-hike as a couple?
00:50:49 - Walk us through rearranging who would carry what?
00:54:26 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 2: Liz and Matt
00:55:02 - Tell us your trail name origin stories.
01:03:08 - Frisky and Chuckle's origin story
01:10:22 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 3: Nat and Matt
01:19:33 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 4: Liz and Matt
01:20:20 - What's your most embarrassing partner story from trail?
01:30:30 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 5: Nat and Matt
01:31:04 - What was your biggest fight on trail?
01:33:04 - How do you avoid fights on trail?
01:37:00 - What made you realize you were being competitive?
01:38:29 - Do you have a conflict resolution strategy?
01:44:08 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 6: Liz and Matt
01:44:56 - What was your biggest fight on the PCT?
01:50:07 - What was your biggest fight on the CDT?
01:56:57 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 7: Nat and Matt
01:57:10 - Guiding for Skurka
01:58:33 - What is your most R-rated trail story?
02:05:40 - When was the first time you had sex in a tent?
02:08:33 - Seven Minutes in Heaven Round 8: Liz and Matt
02:12:25 - Were there any other questions you were expecting?
02:15:38 - If you had one piece of advice for someone going on a thru-hike with a partner, who would it be?
02:24:18 - What are other things that should go on a pre-trail couple's contract?
SEGMENTS
Triple Crown of bad or embarrassing date moments
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross.
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 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, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Good To-Go, we are joined by Chris Priest and Duncan Say, authors of "Forty years, sixteen days: Will two old friends walk the Pennine Way - again?" As the title implies, Chris and Duncan hiked this 268-mile trail in the UK twice, forty years apart. We learn all about this trail, including why the duo thinks it's the best long-distance trail in all of the UK, how it's changed over the years, the culture that surrounds the trail, some of the standout highlights along the trail, and considerations for those who choose to travel from abroad to hike it. We also get some fun, standout stories from these journeys and the book. Prepare to expand your trail bucket list.
We wrap the show with our irrational fears, a triple crown of our most unpopular opinions, the top tents on the Appalachian Trail, a voicemail from an international listener about which cell carrier is best for the AT, and more.
Good To-Go: Use code "TREK25" for 25% off at goodto-go.com.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "TREKPOD10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
[divider]
Interview with Chris & Duncan
Time stamps & Questions
00:04:43 - QOTD: What is your irrational fear?
00:16:38 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon! Apply to blog for the Trek!
00:19:12 - Introducing Chris and Duncan
00:20:12 - How did you two meet and become friends?
00:22:11 - Tell us about your backgrounds and careers.
00:27:14 - What is the English terminology for hiking?
00:27:57 - Give us a primer on the Pennine Way.
00:30:30 - Is green the normal aesthetic across all of England?
00:34:12 - Is there an advantage to hiking the trail in a certain direction?
00:35:53 - What could someone expect weatherwise on this trail?
00:38:00 - Discussion about the popularity of English trails over time
00:39:35 - What are some advantages of the Pennine Way over the Coast to Coast Trail?
00:41:06 - How often do you walk through towns?
00:43:25 - Are there specific 'can't-miss' pubs or sights along the trail?
00:48:26 - Tell us about the difficulty of the terrain.
00:51:00 - Tell us about the accommodations and camping on trail.
00:54:28 - What is the cost of the accommodations?
00:56:35 - How much did you have to budget for the full trip?
00:57:56 - What meals did you crave in town?
00:59:55 - Did you book accommodations in advance or the day of?
01:00:53 - What was the range of temperatures that you experienced?
01:03:00 - Discussion about wind
01:04:53 - Are there any historical places along the trail?
01:07:44 - Describe the designated campsites and wild camping
01:13:45 - Fuck Marry Kill: Pennine Way, Coast to Coast Trail, West Highland Way
01:18:00 - Discussion about British culture on trail
01:19:01 - If you could go back and relive one of the hikes, which would you pick?
01:23:36 - Is it true that you wore jeans and sweaters the first time?
01:25:20 - Tell us about the WhatsApp message.
01:29:33 - Tell us about the Bristol Stool Chart.
01:32:00 - What types of wildlife do you see on the trail?
01:35:50 - Are there any good English wool companies for hiking apparel?
01:37:55 - Are there rules about shitting on someone's private property?
01:39:42 - Where should listeners go to learn more?
SEGMENTS
Stupid Thing of the Week
Trek Propaganda
Triple Crown of unpopular opinions
Mail Bag
Listener Voicemail
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross.
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 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, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are breaking out the champagne and bringing you a super juicy show in celebration of Backpacker Radio's 5 year anniversary. We catch up with six of your and our favorite guests over the past handful of years, we reminisce on our favorite memories of the podcast (including the time Chaunce almost got fired), and give you a bit of a behind-the-scenes of how the sausage is made.
In typical Backpacker Radio fashion, this episode is an ultra-marathon. Sorry in advance.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Organifi: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker.
Goodr: Use code "BACKPACKER" for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "TREKPOD10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
[divider]
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:20 - QOTD: Are you willing to make a bet?
00:13:10 - Reminders: Badger sponsorship launches today! Buy our Stay Feral merch!
00:15:45 - Structure of this episode
00:21:30 - A random podcast memory
00:24:20 - Guest 1: Weezer
00:27:20 - Weezer's love interest update
00:30:20 - What's your advice for romance on trail?
00:35:34 - Guest 2: Professor
00:37:40 - What happened after we last spoke to you?
00:40:50 - Do you have any standout stories since we last spoke?
00:44:10 - What were your emotions when you finished the PCT?
00:46:15 - What's next for you?
00:51:38 - Are you still excited to do more trail things in the future?
00:54:55 - Guest 3: Nancy East
00:57:10 - Tell us about the Superior Hiking Trail!
01:01:10 - What was the town experience like?
01:02:33 - How is your book doing?
01:04:10 - What are your hiking plans for 2023?
01:04:55 - Tell us about the Centennial Trail.
01:08:29 - Guest 4: Kevin Conley
01:10:30 - What are you up to?
01:14:20 - Sing your song for us.
01:21:46 - What reception did you get from your interview?
01:25:15 - What else do you have planned for this year?
01:26:48 - Get Kevin's book.
01:29:41 - Guest 5: Matt "Pretzel" Mason
01:36:00 - Tell us about climbing the ranks in the fire world.
01:39:33 - Tell us about the snow sports you're doing.
01:43:30 - What is an avalanche pit?
01:44:33 - What's scarier: fire or snow?
01:45:35 - What's your advice to thru-hikers considering fires?
01:47:20 - Do you see anything in the thru-hiking world you think could be improved?
01:52:20 - What do you have planned for the future?
01:56:30 - Zach gives Pretzel an honor!
02:03:50 - Reminiscing about the start of the podcast begins
02:43:54 - 2019 reminiscing
02:55:11 - Guest 6: Elise "SOS" Ott
02:59:50 - 2021 reminiscing
03:19:20 - What are Elise's big plans for 2023?
03:24:00 - 2022 reminiscing
03:28:40 - Chatting with Rachel
03:38:17 - Chatting with Leah
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross.
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 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, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again joined by Patricia Cameron. We catch up on all that she's been up to since our last interview, including a NOLS mountaineering leadership course in Alaska, a 2022 LASH on the PCT, and a hiker trash prom hosted by her organization, Blackpackers. Patricia also shares a distressing story of her being the victim of a hate crime during her PCT hike in Lone Pine, California, in which she caught the entire encounter on video. We play the audio from this incident, get Patricia's take on exactly what went down, some of her thoughts on the risk and reception of being a hiker of color through these rural towns, and despite this incident, why she has no plans to stop long-distance backpacking anytime soon. A warning to listeners that the audio from this video is triggering, but I do believe that it's important for everyone in the community to hear this and get a sense of the depressing reality that still persists for many of our fellow hikers.
We wrap the show with a few reasons why a flip-flop thru-hike might be the way to go on the AT, a triple crown of non-dog pets, a superb listener poop story, and more.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "TREKPOD10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
Organifi: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "TAKELESSTREKMORE" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
[divider]
Interview with Patricia Cameron
Time stamps & Questions
00:06:50 - QOTD: Would you take 5 years off your life to talk back and forth with your dog for one hour?
00:11:45 - Reminders: subscribe to the Trek newsletter for news about the Badger Sponsorship
00:12:20 - Introducing Patricia
00:13:14 - What have you been up to since March of 2021?
00:14:54 - What does a person do on a glacier for 2 weeks?
00:18:41 - What inspired you to take the class and learn these winter skills?
00:20:03 - How does a day on a glacier compare to a day of backpacking?
00:22:02 - What skill were you most excited to learn?
00:24:35 - How did you transition from Alaska to Kennedy Meadows?
00:25:30 - Tell us about starting on the PCT
00:26:40 - Discussion about cold soaking and food planning
00:28:33 - What made the PCT harder than you were expecting?
00:33:27 - Tell us about hiking after injuring your leg.
00:35:11 - Did you consider getting off trail?
00:36:01 - Tell us about the incident that happened in Lone Pine.
00:40:25 - *Trigger warning: Audio clip starts*
00:41:22 - *Trigger warning: Audio clip ends*
00:42:30 - Were you scared at that moment?
00:42:45 - Were you more or less scared going back to trail after that?
00:45:38 - Tell us more about Nicole and Girls Fight Back
00:46:43 - Is there a part of you that feels vindicated by capturing the incident on video?
00:50:18 - What will it take for you to feel safe going to Lone Pine?
00:53:48 - What do you want the listener to take away from hearing this?
00:56:48 - How did the incident impact the rest of your hike, particularly in trail towns?
01:00:30 - Any parting messages related to this?
01:01:04 - Where did your LASH end?
01:03:30 - Discussion about Amtrak ride from Truckee to Denver
01:06:00 - Discussion about the Tahoe Rim Trail
01:08:20 - Would you recommend the TRT to others?
01:10:00 - Tell us about your Good Morning America interview
01:14:15 - Discussion about public speaking
01:15:40 - Tell us about Hiker Trash Prom
01:17:48 - What's coming up for Blackpackers in 2023?
01:20:00 - Thank you!
SEGMENTS
Trek Propaganda
Triple Crown of non-dog pets
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross.
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 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, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined once again by Andrew Skurka. In his fourth appearance on the show, we cover some uncharted territory here, including an overview of a guided trip from last year that went less than according to plan, how to best scout the weather for where you're backpacking (and why relying on trip reports can be a mistake), his thoughts on the Durston X-Mid, how someone who lives in the flatlands should train for a backpacking trip out west, why he was able to PR his marathon time in his early 40s (which is a handful of years past the traditional running prime) and why he's gifting Juliana a trash bag. We also go into why Andrew got into hunting, what tips he has for new hunters, gear advice, and why he butchers his own meat. Skurka's episodes are always full of practical advice for the backcountry and this one is certainly no exception.
We wrap the show with the top footwear from the Appalachian Trail in 2022, the triple crown of gaming consoles, and the most exciting thing we've learned in the new year.
Good To-Go: Use code "TREK25" for 25% off at goodto-go.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "TREKPOD10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "TAKELESSTREKMORE" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
[divider]
Interview with Andrew Skurka
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:25 - QOTD: What's the most exciting thing you've learned in the new year?
00:10:49 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon! Badger Sponsorship goes live January 30!
00:13:20 - Introducing Andrew
00:14:27 - What have you been up to since you were last on the show?
00:15:05 - Discussion about marathons and athleticism
00:17:52 - Discussion about shoe technology, shoes for hiking vs. running, and shoe life length
00:23:18 - Will you be going for another personal record?
00:24:12 - Have you sustained any major injuries related to running?
00:24:50 - What's your exercise routine?
00:25:37 - Tell us about the guiding year you had.
00:29:46 - How did you pick the ideal location within Olympic National Park?
00:32:13 - What portion of the trips were off trail?
00:33:15 - Discussion about group dynamics and reactions to non-optimal trip conditions
00:36:00 - What went well on the trips to the Olympics?
00:36:55 - Will you modify fitness expectations for 2023 trips?
00:39:25 - Any other lessons from the 2022 session?
00:40:22 - Discussion about Skurka's guides
00:41:55 - What components go into a "good" guiding service?
00:43:11 - What is your minimum threshold for new guide hires?
00:47:25 - Were there any standout new hires from this year?
00:50:27 - Do you find it challenging to get on trail for personal reasons?
00:53:04 - What do you see being more realistic moving forward: hiring out the administrative side or the in-person guiding side?
00:55:43 - How do you recommend getting backcountry weather forecasts?
00:59:53 - What do you think about the iPhone satellite SOS communication feature?
01:03:31 - Did anything else come out over this year that you're really excited about?
01:06:00 - Did you change any of your gear this year?
01:07:20 - Discussion about the Durston X-Mid
01:09:00 - Discussion about DCF and gear improvements
01:12:44 - Discussion about the lifespan and waterproofing of tents
01:16:00 - What's the most underdeveloped piece of gear that cottage companies are missing?
01:19:05 - What are your training tips for people living in low-elevation, flat areas?
01:23:18 - Backpack rain cover or no cover?
01:27:00 - Zach & Chaunce's gear over time
01:27:44 - How many bear vaults can a ULA Catalyst fit?
01:28:38 - What was your interest for getting into hunting?
01:29:45 - Discussion of elk versus mule deer and meat amounts
01:30:48 - Have you gotten pushback on hunting from your followers?
01:32:47 - Discussion about elk herd management in Colorado
01:35:35 - Discussion about butchering and processing the elk meat
01:37:43 - Is there a leave no trace element of hunting?
01:40:10 - How did you learn what to do?
01:46:40 - What are the chances of there being a Skurka guided hunting trip in the future?
01:48:40 - Do you have any resources to recommend?
01:50:04 - Have you had any funny encounters with animals while hunting?
01:52:14 - What fabrics are ideal for being quiet and invisible while hunting?
01:53:00 - What lessons have you learned since beginning hunting?
01:54:44 - Do people hunt mountain goats or big horned sheep?
01:55:50 - What do you want people to know about the 2023 guiding season?
01:56:42 - Tell us about your scholarship program.
SEGMENTS
Trek Propaganda
Triple Crown of gaming consoles
Pupdate
Mail Bag
Use code 'BACKPACKER RADIO' for 15% off Kevin Conley's book!
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross.
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 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, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Mackenzie Fresquez. Today's interview focuses on neurodivergence in the outdoors, as Mackenzie has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. We get Mackenzie's experience with how this has interfaced with her long-distance backpacking trips- including a NOBO LASH on the PCT in 2021, what unique challenges someone with ADS faces in the context of a large on-trail community, and what advice she has to offer others with ASD who aspire to get into backpacking.
We wrap the show with a packed array of segments, including some tips for UL backpacking with a baby, the triple crown of best drunks, a couple of very juicy stupidest things of the week, a new cinnamon court submission, and more!
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "TREKPOD10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "TAKELESSTREKMORE" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Casio: Shop at casio.com/us/watches.
Organifi: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker.
[divider]
Interview with Mackenzie Fresquez
Time stamps & Questions
00:04:26 - QOTD: How long are dog's memories?
00:11:32 - Reminders: Monthly Patreon Q&A episodes! Become a Patreon supporter!
00:14:44 - Introducing Mackenzie
00:15:19 - Tell us some nature trivia!
00:17:28 - Give us your backpacking resume.
00:19:33 - What made you want to start the PCT after leaving the CT?
00:20:20 - Introduce us to the topic of neurodivergence.
00:21:19 - Why do you think there is a lot of attention about neurodivergence content on social media right now?
00:22:10 - What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
00:25:45 - What made you go from masking your symptoms to seeking a diagnosis?
00:28:00 - Discussion about insurance coverage for autism assessments
00:29:10 - What was the tipping point to answers and how has the diagnosis helped?
00:31:12 - Do you consider your diagnosis a benefit or hindrance for backpacking?
00:35:30 - What do you know now that you wish you'd known before starting your hikes?
00:36:36 - Discussion about social situations on trail
00:40:02 - DId your symptoms manifest in any additional ways?
00:41:36 - What separates general social anxiety from ASD?
00:42:15 - How did you prepare for the PCT?
00:44:56 - Will you prepare for future backpacking trips differently?
00:45:52 - Which backpacking routine is your favorite?
00:46:36 - Do you have a superpower?
00:47:40 - How was the response to your facebook posts?
00:51:00 - Discussion about self-diagnosis versus clinician diagnosis
00:52:33 - Why is being able to label something important?
00:53:55 - What was the negative bi-product of faking extraversion?
00:54:40 - What else do you recommend for someone considering their symptoms?
00:56:33 - Why are GI issues common in people with ASD?
00:58:22 - Discussion about "curing" autism
01:00:35 - Did you have a lot of social discomfort on the PCT?
01:02:05 - Thank you!
SEGMENTS
Stupid Thing of the Week
Trek Propaganda
Mom
Gross or Not Gross
Cinnamon Court
Triple Crown of best drunks
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
Listener Voicemail
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross.
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 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, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.
This is a sneak peak into a new monthly Q&A episode we'll be running, available exclusively on Patreon. You can get a taste for what these episodes might look like moving forward, or if you want to get in on the fun now, head on over to patreon.com/backpackerradio. You can get access to these shows for as little as $5 per month.
This one covers Chaunce and Badger's thoughts on cooking in your tent vestibule, the pros and cons of sharing your thru-hike on social media, comparing the Timberline Trail vs. the Tahoe Rim Trail, whether the ATC should recognize 2020 Appalachian Trail thru-hikes, integrating into the hiking world, and more.
Become a Backpacker Radio Patreon supporter!
We are nothing without our wonderful listeners and supporters. Your financial support enables us to improve the audio quality of the show (equipment is expensive!), travel to interview guests, and encourages us to continue recording new episodes!
Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross.
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 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, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Ethan Greene, who is the Director at the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. We of course dive deep on everything related to snow safety in the backcountry including some basic tips people need to be safe during avalanche season, the most common mistakes people make in the backcountry related to avalanche safety, what to do if you're caught in an avalanche, and much more.
We wrap the show with a new backcountry meal critic (mac and cheese edition!), we go over some of the details from the first article from our 2022 AT thru-hiker survey, we do a triple crown of our top backpacking predictions for the new year, a glorious listener poop story, and more.
Casio: Shop at casio.com/us/watches.
Organifi: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "TAKELESSTREKMORE" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "TREKPOD10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
[divider]
Interview with Ethan Greene
Time stamps & Questions
00:04:51 - QOTD: What hopes do you have for 2023?
00:10:57 - Reminder 1: Subscribe to the Trek's newsletter to stay tuned for the Badger sponsorship
00:11:47 - Reminder 2 & 3: Apply to blog for the Trek and shop our shorts!
00:12:36 - Introducing Ethan
00:13:20 - Tell us about your background in outdoor sports
00:14:01 - Have you always had a fascination with snow in particular?
00:15:47 - Can you tell us about ski joring in Leadville?
00:17:28 - Have you lived in the Rockies your entire life?
00:19:00 - How do you go from knowing you like snow to getting a doctorate in snow?
00:22:08 - Is there a rough estimate of how many people in the world have PhDs in snow?
00:23:33 - How have winters in the Rockies changed over the past 30 or 50 years?
00:24:54 - When are avalanches at the greatest risk for happening?
00:25:52 - If you're a backpacker, what are the safety basics of avalanches?
00:29:37 - What is the data about who gets trapped by avalanches?
00:31:08 - What resources do you recommend people look at?
00:33:10 - True or false: if you're covered by snow, spit to see which way is up
00:35:03 - What steps should you take if you're in an avalanche?
00:37:45 - Describe what movement through the snow is best
00:39:38 - Is a certain type of activity more likely to trigger an avalanche than others?
00:43:30 - What are some standout moments from your childhood or career?
00:45:28 - Have you ever been in an avalanche?
00:48:55 - Are there any myths about avalanches that aren't accurate?
00:49:37 - How common are avalanches that haven't been forecasted?
00:50:45 - What area is notorious for frequent avalanches?
00:53:12 - Do the icier conditions in New England change the avalanche likelihood?
00:54:12 - Does the direction of the mountain face impact the avalanche likelihood?
00:56:07 - Can you talk at all about dangerous snow features like cornices and crevasses?
00:58:37 - What conditions made 2019 such a big avalanche year?
01:01:15 - What kind of manpower goes into cleaning up avalanche debris?
01:04:04 - Should we consider avalanches when skiing and snowboarding at big resorts?
01:05:29 - If someone is interested in getting into the avalanche field, what's a good path for them?
01:08:48 - Do you feel a profound sense of boredom in the summer?
01:10:29 - What is some avalanche lingo the commoner wouldn't understand?
01:12:02 - Is there any question we didn't ask that we should have?
SEGMENTS
Backcountry Meal Critics: Backpacker's Pantry
Trek Propaganda
Mail Bag
Triple Crown of predictions for 2023
5 Star Reviews
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross.
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 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, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined yet again by our resident yeti, Jabba aka The Real Hiking Viking aka The Hiking Viking Liking Biking. Jabba gives us the full rundown on his recent 5,000 mile bikepacking trip on the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route and The Western Wildlands Route. We learn how this journey came to form due to a pair of injuries early on in the year, how bikepacking compares to thru-hiking in Jabba's eyes, legs, and heart, the biggest pros and cons of bikepacking vs. thru-hiking, a story of how Tom bunked up with a 73 year old thru-hiker for a few nights, and much more. This goes without saying anytime Jabba is on the show, but this one is wild, and doubly so today as the team was fighting a round of nasty hangovers inspired by Palooza weekend.
We wrap the show with a triple crown of the worst jobs to be hungover for, we pin Mara vs. Rachel in a new game show to test their knowledge of Backpacker Radio history, people chug raw eggs, and more.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Casio: Shop at casio.com/us/watches.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "ULTRALIGHT10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
[divider]
Interview with Jabba, the Real Hiking Viking
Time stamps & Questions
00:04:19 - QOTD: Did you lose any bets recently?
00:12:37 - QOTD 2: Did you have a designated popcorn/vomit bowl?
00:15:45 - Introducing Jabba, kind of
00:16:42 - Tell us about how you started your adventures in 2022.
00:18:29 - What was your injury at the start of the CDT?
00:19:18 - Jabba's motel room bunkmate
00:24:04 - Was biking originally part of the plan?
00:27:57 - Where was the fun part of bike packing?
00:28:43 - What are your personal pros and cons of bike packing?
00:32:24 - Tell us about your bike and fixing equipment.
00:36:15 - Can you describe what a tubeless tire is?
00:38:36 - Story about the first two days of biking
00:41:19 - Would you describe your brand partnerships as a net negative or positive?
00:44:50 - Discussion about biking technique
00:47:35 - Discussion about overuse injuries and healing
00:49:35 - Do you have future hiking plans?
00:53:28 - Tell us about your Patagonia trip in 2023.
00:56:50 - Biking vs hiking: big mile days
01:00:45 - Discussion about making biking comfortable
01:05:15 - Quadzilla's quads
01:05:57 - What did you add or upgrade during the trip for comfort or hygiene?
01:09:01 - Story about Eureka
01:12:09 - Tell us about the 9 day stretch when you weren't alone.
01:15:38 - Biking vs hiking: being solo or with others
01:17:15 - Describe the Western Wildlands Route
01:23:29 - Did you veer off the route?
01:25:20 - Any other standout days or moments?
01:29:30 - Biking vs hiking: adrenaline rushes
01:32:38 - Biking vs hiking: budget and costs
01:34:31 - Fuck Marry Kill: thru-hiking, bike packing, college football
01:36:58 - What was your worst injury from the trip?
01:41:00 - Did you wear clip in shoes?
01:43:47 - Would you recommend thru-hiking or bikepacking to someone more?
SEGMENTS
Triple Crown of worst jobs to show up to hungover
Trivia: Mara vs. Rachel
Mail Bag
5 Star Review
[divider]
Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross.
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 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, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, Greg McDaniel, Kristina Diaz, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Sawyer Products, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Jacob Northrup, Jeff LaFranier, Keith Dobie Jr, Liz Seger, and Peter.
Our TOPPODCAST Picks 
