Backpacker Radio

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Heidi Nisbett aka Sketch. Heidi is a thru-hiker, hiking guide, and an exceptionally talented artist, having recently been commissioned to paint a giant mural at the Trail Center in Damascus. Heidi gives us the lowdown on why she loved the Foothills Trail, the Superior Hiking Trail, Pinhoti Trail, and more. We also go in-depth on Heidi's journey as an artist, how she fell in love with it as a kid, fell out of love with it post-college, and rekindled the flame during her time hiking the AT. She shares her top advice to aspiring trail-focused artists, we learn about a CDT thru-hike that went wildly awry, and we chat the best and worst beer styles. This is another fun chat guaranteed to bring a smile to your head. We wrap the show with reasons why the Florida Trail is actually awesome, I'm shamed for liking things I'm good at, we do a triple crown of hiking things we just don't get, a Florida Man segment, and much more.  Visit Iceland with Chaunce and Badger: Registration is live for our 2024 trip to Iceland. Come and hike to glaciers, waterfalls, and secret lagoons with your favorite podcast hosts. More info here!  Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. PACT Outdoors: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off and free shipping at pactoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Heidi Nisbett  Heidi Nisbett Instagram  Sketching Summits website Sketching Summits TikTok  Time stamps & Questions 00:03:05 - Reminders: Chaunce is unwell & we’re still collecting poop stories for our book. Send your story here!   00:08:54 - Introducing Heidi Nisbett 00:09:42 - Is it safe to say you’re a beer connoisseur?  00:09:55 - What’s the style of beer you’re into now?  00:10:07 - Do you have a favorite wheat beer?  00:10:24 - What is your trail name and the origin?  00:11:10 - Why didn’t you like the name Picasso? 00:11:56 - What did Picasso do for art history?  00:12:45 - Were you sketching at all shelter logs?  00:13:58 - How long do the paintings take you?  00:14:58 - Was it hard to maintain a social group if you stop to paint?  00:15:40 - Do most people break up with art after their degree?  00:20:07 - When did art stand out as something you were talented in?  00:20:50 - Do you come from artsy people?  00:22:58 - At what point were you getting positive feedback on your art?  00:23:40 - What role did social media play as you re-entered the art world?  00:26:13 - What happens between your art career and hiking the AT?  00:29:11 - How does a paint and sip class work?  00:30:44 - What tips do you have for amateur artists?  00:34:00 - Tell us about your style of art now  00:35:08 - How would you describe the style of art?  00:37:36 - How did you transition from art girl to hiking girl?  00:40:28 - What was your hiking experience prior to the AT?  00:42:06 - Tell us about the evolution of your art as you hiked along the AT?  00:44:46 - How did you decide to make your art your full-time business after hiking?  00:47:20 - What draws people in the most?  00:48:40 - How do you overcome imposter syndrome?  00:49:50 - Tell us about your work with the ATC  00:52:52 - Was that your first mural?  00:54:40 - How does it work when painting around features in the room?  00:55:44 - Is this the piece of art that has consumed the most amount of your time?  00:55:52 - What is the second longest?  00:56:51 - What’s the most popular piece of art?  00:57:22 - What do you mail most often?  00:59:07 - How do you determine what to turn into a sticker?  01:00:23 - Have you asked if the Pinhoti has any mural needs?  01:02:10 - How was the Pinhoti?  01:04:30 - Why pick the Pinhoti over other trails?  01:05:48 - How does the difficulty compare to the AT?  01:06:54 - Is there a bad time of year to hike the Pinhoti?  01:08:01 - Would you pick Pinhoti or Superior Hiking Trail?  01:09:42 - How was the Foothills Trail?  01:11:57 - What’s the hiking culture in North Carolina?  01:12:56 - Are you familiar with the Overmountain Trail?  01:15:23 - FMK…Beer styles  01:16:53 - FMK…Landscape, Animal, or People Artwork  01:18:30 - FMK…Watercolor, Oils, or Acrylic Paintings 01:19:07 - FMK…Pinhoti, Superior Hiking Trail, or Mountains to Sea trail 01:20:36 - How did the CDT attempt go?  01:23:24 - Tell us about the double helicopter evacuation you witnessed  01:30:33 - Were you able to enjoy fun van activities?  01:31:27 - What’s the proposal story?  01:35:40 - Tell us about guiding  01:38:12 - How do you experience a hike differently as a guide?  01:39:19 - If someone wants you as their guide, how do they request that?  01:40:53 - Tell us about your watercolor trips?  01:43:11 - Did your art background play a role in getting hired as a guide?  01:44:16 - Do you have any advice for someone who is trying to find their start in the art world?  01:46:25 - What was your top hike in Guatemala?  01:47:53 - What did you say your husband does?  01:48:15 - Thank you, Heidi!   Segments  Trek Propaganda: 11 Reasons The Florida Trail Is Awesome by Owen Eigenbrot QOTD: What is something you’re good at, but don’t enjoy doing?  Voicemails  Thing of the week  Triple crown of hiking things you just don’t get  Florida man + birthdate  Gross or Not Gross Chaunce QOTD: How is it living with Garrett?  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. Advertise on Backpacker Radio 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by new Executive Director at the Colorado Trail Foundation, Tisha McCombs. Tisha gives us a rundown on her journey to becoming the head at the CTF, what her vision is for the Colorado Trail moving forward, all that goes into maintaining the CT and where help is most needed, and much more. We also chat a bit about the role mountain biking plays into sustaining many trails throughout Colorado, what her top advice is to aspiring adventurers - coming from the perspective of an adventure and life coach, and a fuck marry kill of the sections of the Colorado Trail. We wrap the show with a triple crown of ways to insult thru-hikers, a review of the updated version of the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir Xlite from a former guest of the show, and a new segment, plug me.   PACT Outdoors: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off and free shipping at pactoutdoors.com. Visit Iceland with Chaunce and Badger: Registration is live for our 2024 trip to Iceland. Come and hike to glaciers, waterfalls, and secret lagoons with your favorite podcast hosts. More info here!  Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER20” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Tisha McCombs Tisha McCombs Instagram Colorado Trail Foundation  Time stamps & Questions 00:05:02 - Reminders: Find us on YouTube and Patreon  00:06:03 - Introducing Tisha McCombs  00:06:24 - Does Tisha give us Mims vibes?  00:07:22 - Packing resupply boxes  00:13:16 - Walk us through your previous work prior to your new role with the CT 00:15:45 - Check out the CTF store 00:16:45 - Should we treat this as trading cards?  00:17:37 - Between CA and CO, what are some National Park recommendations you’d give?  00:19:20 - Tell us about your other non-profit experience  00:20:04 - Were you responsible for the Palisade Plunge?  00:20:50 - Were you primarily managing people at COPMOBA?  00:21:37 - What are some of the challenges with volunteer work?  00:23:36 - Have there been any oopsies with volunteers?  00:25:08 - Are the trails for hikers as well, or only mountain bikers?  00:25:46 - Is there any tension between mountain bikers and hikers?  00:29:24 - Do mountain bikers think e-bikers are lazy?  00:29:46 - How much do e-bikes and dirt bikes impact trails compared to mountain biking?  00:33:36 - What are the rebates that CO is giving on e-bikes?  00:36:30 - If you could only bike or hike the rest of your life, what would you pick?  00:37:15 - How does the spine injury impact wearing a backpack?  00:38:35 - Do you have a favorite pack that helps?  00:39:41 - The CT is a multi-purpose trail. How do you make decisions that benefit all uses?  00:43:34 - Do you get funds from dirt bike tags?  00:45:19 - How does trail maintenance differ between mountain biking and hiking?  00:46:33 - What would you like to do differently as the new Executive Director of the CTF?  00:51:53 - What type of money does it take to maintain trails?  00:59:15 - Why do you think there is so much interest in making the CT the best maintained trail in the US?  01:02:18 - How do you increase volunteer interest?  01:06:26 - Did you go through similar feelings with your son?  01:08:09 - Did you ever get resistance from your son when trying to bring him to your activities?  01:11:17 - What are some specific needs of the CTF? 01:15:17 - What’s one of the best trail crew meals you’ve had?  01:16:22 - If options were endless, what would you do for the CT? 01:17:40 - What logistics would go into removing road walks?  01:18:55 - What are your two other wishes for the CTF?  01:21:59 - Are there any transportation recommendations?  01:22:58 - What about park & ride options?  01:24:01 - Are there apps for private parking spaces?  01:26:16 - What are top business ideas for someone who wants to offer value to the trail?  01:29:18 - Is there anywhere along the trail to do mail drops?  01:31:39 - Is there a shuttle into Lake City?  01:33:59 - Tell us about your work as a life coach  01:37:33 - Is there one element that merges adventure, career, and trauma?  01:40:23 - Are there any go-to fly fishing spots along the CT?  01:41:51 - Is it catch-and-release along the trail?  01:42:20 - FMK for Colorado Trail Segments  01:45:15 - Thank you, Tisha!  01:45:43 - Visit www.coloradotrail.org   Segments  QOTD: How old are you in your mind?  Trek Propaganda: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT Sleeping Pad Review Thing of the Week QOTD 2: What’s the most unethical thing you’d do to save money?  Triple Crown of ways to insult thru-hikers  Mail Bag/Plug Me: The Unseen by Mike Clelland 5 Star Review  [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns.   A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by fellow Goldenite, Andrew Terrill. Starting in 1997, Andrew walked more than 7,000 miles from the southernmost point of Italy to northern Norway, an 18-month journey across the wild parts of Europe. Needless to say, learning about this unique and fascinating trek is the focus of today's chat, as we learn what inspired Andrew to take on this route that no one had ever done previously, how he was received by locals throughout his journey, standout stories from his adventure- including running into the Italian mafia, his favorite stretches of trail, and how this journey helped him overcome his social anxiety. This hike is unlike anything we've ever featured on the podcast, and we think you'll really enjoy learning more about Andrew's story.  We wrap the show with news of a giveaway The Trek is hosting, featuring nearly $15,000 worth of backpacking gear, what our "liked it before it was cool" brags are, the Triple Crown of things that are the modern-day cigarette, and an epic listener email on the legality of stabbing people who enter your tent. Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. PACT Outdoors: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off and free shipping at pactoutdoors.com. Goodr: Use code “BACKPACKER” for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER20” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Andrew Terrill Andrew Terrill Website Andrew’s Instagram Andrew’s Facebook  Time stamps & Questions 00:04:55 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon 00:05:54 - Introducing Andrew Terrill  00:06:31 - Tell us about living in Golden, CO  00:07:04 - Why Golden instead of other Colorado cities?  00:07:59 - How did you meet your wife?  00:10:23 - Were you appreciative of the email addresses?  00:11:14 - What was the inspiration for your journey?  00:14:25 - What were you doing for work at the time? 00:15:28 - Did you get any support in quitting your job to hike?  00:17:10 - Can you tell us the scary story from the Pyrenees?  00:20:36 - What injuries did you get?  00:22:58 - How did that experience not make you shy away from hiking?  00:23:50 - Did you dread sharing the news of your fall?  00:25:02 - It’s 1997, how did you plan the logistics?  00:27:58 - How many times was the lucky coin unlucky?  00:29:26 - Did your fall make you want to pursue risk more?  00:31:07 - Tell us about being warned of the mafia  00:34:10 - Do you speak Italian? 00:34:32 - Was the threat of the mafia present through the full trip?  00:36:32 - Tell us about your gear back then?  00:39:30 - What happens when you leave Calambria?  00:40:51 - What mistakes did you think you made?  00:42:12 - Tell us about getting lost?  00:45:42 - What were the logistics of camping on this journey? 00:48:26 - Why did you get turned away from the hotel?  00:50:52 - Tell us about the shepherds you met along the way? 00:55:28 - What there a specific turning point?  00:56:25 - Tell us about your encounter with wild boars 00:57:41 - Any bear or wolf encounters?  01:01:23 - How did you overcome your social anxieties?  01:08:12 - Do you attribute your hike to resolving those anxieties?  01:09:22 - Tell us about hiking through the Dolomites  01:11:36 - Were there other historic sites you stumbled upon?  01:12:30 - Can you give us more specifics about the route you took?  01:13:50 - How do you handle the Alps in the winter?  01:20:41 - Is it challenging to plan food resupply?  01:22:15 - Were you ravenous after this journey?  01:22:45 - Did you have any unique culinary experiences?  01:23:54 - What types of freelance work were you doing for money?  01:25:03 - Did you ever lose any film?  01:25:38 - If you could highlight a 50-100 miles stretch in each of the countries, which would you recommend?  01:28:14 - Are there polar bears in the arctic?  01:29:08 - What kind of wildlife is there?  01:30:01 - Did you deal with short days in Norway?  01:30:36 - Did you have trouble sleeping?  01:30:52 - What should we ask you?  01:33:34 - If someone wants to follow your route, what advice would you give?  01:35:00 - Books: The Earth Beneath my Feet and On Sacred Ground   SEGMENTS QOTD: What was your “I liked it before it was cool” brag?  Trek Propaganda: It’s Still Summer Giveaway  Stupidest thing of the week  Happy National Raspberry and Cream Day  Triple Crown of things that are the modern day cigarette  Cinnamon Court  Mail Bag  5 Star Review    [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by Mandy "Veggie" Redpath and Kevin "Karma" Savage.  Combined, the pair have accumulated more than 30,000 trail miles, and an endless number of stories to boot.  We get a detailed breakdown comparing a few different variations of Camino de Santiago- Frances, del Norte, and Primativo, a serendipitous hitchhike which kick-started their romantic journey, their first shared trek on the Pacific Northwest Trail, the Hayduke Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Low to High Route, Scottish National Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, and more.  In a nutshell, if you like trail stories and beta, you will dig this chat. We wrap the show with a Trek propaganda presented by today's guest on why you should thru-hike trails other than the AT PCT or CDT, the triple crown of things that you eat when you're sick, and the ways in which we align with the boomers. Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. PACT Outdoors: Use code “TREK20” for 20% off and free shipping at pactoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Mandy and Kevin Mandy's Instagram Karma's Instagram Mandy & Karma's Website Time stamps & Questions 00:04:42 - QOTD: What makes you go, “I’m with the boomers on this one”? 00:06:18 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon! 00:07:42 - Introducing Veggie and Karma 00:08:27 - Give us your trail resumes 00:11:47 - We Love Love: tell us about how you met 00:15:40 - Tell us more about falling in love 00:18:08 - Tell us about the start of the Pacific Northwest Trail 00:19:50 - Was the spark there on the CDT? 00:21:56 - What did you do after the Pacific Northwest Trail?00:23:56 - Tell us more about the various Camino routes you’ve done 00:27:46 - How much do the different routes overlap? 00:29:00 - Give us a pitch for each of the routes you did 00:32:11 - What did you use the trail guide for? 00:34:06 - Describe the water situation 00:35:00 - Describe the lodging 00:37:40 - What’s the language barrier like? 00:39:13 - What drew you to doing the Camino multiple times back to back? 00:42:02 - What did you do your thesis on? 00:43:00 - What type of injuries do people get? 00:44:51 - Give your best elevator pitch for the Camino 00:48:50 - Tell us about hiking the AT 00:51:00 - How did the AT compare to the Camino? 00:54:30 - What standout story do you have from the AT? 00:58:20 - Do you have any beginner mistake stories from the AT? 00:59:35 - Tell us about the Colorado Trail 01:05:37 - How did you get accustomed to dealing with afternoon thunderstorms on the CT? 01:06:14 - Tell us about the Pacific Crest Trail 01:08:09 - Describe PCTAZDKO 01:09:04 - Did the ice ax lessons come in handy? 01:11:00 - How did you navigate the PCT in 2012? 01:13:02 - Do you have any strong feelings about people’s dependence on Far Out? 01:15:03 - Have you ever needed a compass in addition to paper maps? 01:17:20 - Discussion about wildfires on the PCT 01:19:00 - Any standout stories from the CDT? 01:22:32 - How bound to the red line were you coming from the AT? 01:25:07 - How did the CDT last year compare to 2015? 01:27:15 - Why is the Wyoming Basin awesome? 01:29:35 - How did you first get into wildlife photography? 01:31:38 - Why do you like bird watching? 01:34:00 - Discussion about bird songs 01:37:21 - What is the best part about hiking with your partner? 01:39:30 - How do you help the other person when they’re having an off mental day? 01:43:58 - Any standout stories from the Hayduke? 01:46:00 - Zach and Chaunce have a fight 01:49:07 - What made you decide to do the Oregon Coast Trail? 01:51:55 - Tell us about the remoteness of the Oregon Coast Trail? 01:54:23 - How does the scenery change as you progress along the trail? 01:55:08 - What section of the trail would you hike again if you could? 01:56:12 - Tell us about the Kalalau Trail in Hawaii? 01:58:57 - Is the permit process difficult? 01:59:54 - Tell us about the Wonderland Trail 02:01:45 - Tell us about the Low to High Route 02:06:05 - Tell us about your scorpion encounters 02:08:40 - Has anyone gotten stung by a scorpion? 02:10:15 - What was the weather like on the Low to High Route? 02:13:01 - How did the AT compare going sobo instead of nobo? 02:14:35 - Any standout stories from the Arizona Trail in 2019? 02:16:04 - Tell us about the Scottish National Trail 02:18:18 - What is the Scottish take on Braveheart? 02:20:00 - Give us the pitch for the Scottish National Trail 02:21:32 - How often did you resupply? 02:22:00 - Tell us about being vegan and finding food options internationally 02:25:14 - Why did you decide to become vegan? 02:29:20 - Do you adhere to vegan gear and apparel as well? 02:30:25 - What is the most annoying thing about hiking with the other person? 02:33:14 - What’s your best gear idea? 02:33:52 - Tell us about the Grand Enchantment Trail 02:37:35 - Give us your top wildlife photography pictures you’ve taken 02:41:05 - How do you finance your hiking? 02:45:20 - Do you have any recommendations for making hiking a lifestyle? 02:47:10 - Are you pursuing any additional passions or careers? 02:49:05 - When are you getting engaged? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 5 Reasons To Hike Trails Other Than the Triple Crown by Mandy “Veggie” Redpath National Mutt Day Thought of the Week Triple Crown of things to eat when you’re sick Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Matteo Volpi, the CEO of Volpi Outdoor Gear, the Mexico-based UL gear company.  We talk about what it's like to run a cottage gear company out of Mexico, a country without much of a long-distance backpacking culture.  We learn about what goes into starting and running a new business, how he designs the products he uses and sells, the challenges of managing a team, and much more.  We also talk about Matteo's hikes on the PCT and Colorado Trail and his love affair with backpacking in the US. We wrap the show with a brief overview (and hopefully some foreshadowing) of the UK's 230-mile Cape Wrath Trail, the Triple Crown of activities that aren't but feel like sports, and some further education on the subject of real people who exist that don't have internal monologues who are real people that really exist. Range Meal Bars: Use code “THETREK” for 20% off at rangemealbar.com. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER20” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. [divider] Interview with Matteo Volpi Matteo's Instagram Volpi Outdoor Gear Instagram Volpi Outdoor Gear Website Time stamps & Questions 00:03:39 - Support us on Patreon! 00:05:14 - Introducing Matteo  00:06:05 - How did you get your trail name? 00:09:05 - How did you first get introduced to thru-hiking? 00:09:58 - Tell us about Guadalajara 00:12:35 - Are there any long trails or public land in Mexico? 00:14:48 - Is there any sort of backpacking culture in Mexico? 00:16:40 - Discussion about gear access and outdoor retailers in Mexico 00:20:40 - What’s the process for getting a visa for hiking the PCT 00:23:30 - What was it like starting at the Mexico-US border? 00:25:10 - Did you face any sort of racism or unpleasant behavior? 00:26:40 - Tell us about your early days on the PCT 00:30:28 - What are the top three non-obvious places to visit in Mexico? 00:37:00 - What highlights do you have from your first days of the PCT? 00:40:40 - When did you start your gear company? 00:42:11 - How did you get started with your gear? 00:45:13 - How do you make the packs? 00:48:24 - How do you source the fabrics? 00:55:40 - What led you to start your gear company? 00:57:11 - How hard is it to ship internationally? 00:59:00 - Tell us about hiking the Colorado Trail with your pack 01:00:03 - What are your favorite features of your backpack? 01:02:50 - How many miles do you typically do a day? 01:04:52 - How do you manage your time hiking, running a company, and going to school? 01:06:19 - What are you hoping to accomplish by going to college and studying GIS? 01:08:07 - How big is your team? 01:08:45 - What are your ambitions for the company in the future? 01:11:28 - What is the biggest, non-obvious challenge for your company? 01:14:52 - What advice would you give to yourself about starting a company? 01:16:07 - How do you approach taking risks? 01:18:03 - Rolf’s celebrity question: what are your plans right now? 01:19:52 - Do you have a favorite section of the CT? 01:21:18 - Where can people keep up with you? SEGMENTS QOTD 1: What’s the shelf life of leftover sushi? QOTD 2: Are mashed potatoes just Irish guacamole? Trek Propaganda Going Stoveless: The Pros and Cons of Cold Soaking by Diane Duffard The Cape Wrath Trail: The Wild, Wonderful, 230-Mile ‘AT of the UK’ by Clay Bonnyman Evans Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of things that aren’t sports but feel like sports Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Lyla Harrod. Lyla is is a sober, queer, transgender woman currently on the last leg of her triple crown and has accrued an absurd amount of trail miles in just the last 2.5 years. She swings by the studio in the midst of her CDT thru-hike to share her journey of coming out as trans, how that's interfaced with her many thru-hiking miles, establishing the FKT on the Bay Circuit Trail, her love affair with the Hayduke, setting the women’s White Mountains Direttissima FKT, her hikes on the AZT, Florida Trail, and much more. We wrap the show with some tips on scoring a walk-up permit at some of the most high-demand backcountry destinations, how we'd waste our money if we were billionaires, a very old guy centric stupid thing of the week, and the triple crown of failed candle scents. RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKESHELTER20” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.  Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Lyla Harrod Lyla's Instagram 7 Ways to Be "Trans Competent" on Trail by Lyla Harrod Trans hikers to follow this season Aubri Drake Stephanie Cawley Oliver Henderson Jordan Pinneke Time stamps & Questions 00:01:50 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon! 00:02:48 - Introducing Lyla 00:03:08 - What got you into backpacking? 00:04:41 - Tell us your trail name origin story 00:08:55 - What got you into thru-hiking? 00:10:20 - What was the AT like in 2021? 00:12:31 - What would you like to tell us about your background pre-transitioning? 00:19:10 - What was the reaction when you started to come out? 00:21:41 - Where did you get information from after you came out as trans? 00:23:47 - Did you ever fear you were wrong or would regret your decision? 00:24:58 - What was your mindset like before starting the AT? 00:26:53 - How did your on trail experience compare with your expectations? 00:28:35 - Did anyone use slurs at you? 00:32:00 - Did you experience a difference between hikers and people in towns? 00:33:41 - What are the most common things people get wrong? 00:35:45 - How do you interact with someone who has transphobic views? 00:37:09 - How often do people not believe you when you say you’re trans? 00:38:28 - How do you handle always having to have a positive front and decompress? 00:41:33 - Do you have a general piece of advice you offer to people who reach out to you? 00:43:42 - If you had an FAQ page, what would the top questions on that page be? 00:47:47 - Are hormone medications difficult to manage on trail? 00:49:04 - Are there any other modifications you made that make hiking easier for you? 00:50:54 - Are you still hurt when someone makes a mistake you can tell was unintentional? 00:54:08 - At what point did you know that thru-hiking was your new thing? 00:56:03 - Tell us about doing FKTs as a trans woman 01:00:00 - Tell us about the Bay Circuit Trail 01:03:00 - Tell us about doing the White Mountains Direttissima FKT 01:05:37 - How well did the PCT prepare you for the White Mountains? 01:06:41 - How do you train for something like that? 01:07:29 - How did you handle the rules about camping in alpine zones? 01:09:08 - Any advice for someone looking to set an FKT on the Bay Circuit Trail? 01:09:57 - What was your biggest newbie mistake on the AT? 01:11:44 - What 3 day stretch of the AT would you like to go back and relive? 01:12:55 - Have you ever shit your pants? 01:13:55 - Tell us about going from the AT to the AZT 01:16:34 - Tell us about your social experience and interactions on the PCT 01:20:00 - Why did you start the PCT in mid-March? 01:22:30 - What differences have you noticed in the continuous footpath mindset across the three Triple Crown trails? 01:25:49 - Can you define redlining? 01:27:00 - Tell us about the increasing popularity on the CDT and whether you’ve noticed it 01:28:38 - Do you think your PCT struggles enhanced or detracted from your experience? 01:29:55 - What were your highlights from the Hayduke? 01:32:24 - What’s the most difficult aspect of the Hayduke? 01:37:20 - What are your top moments from all the trails you’ve done? 01:46:30 - How have the San Juans compared to the Sierras in April? 01:49:01 - What’s making people decide to flip up to Glacier on the CDT this year? 01:52:08 - What will it mean for you to finish your Triple Crown? 01:54:56 - Tell us about your gear 01:58:50 - What parting message do you have for our listeners? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda How To Score a Walk-Up Backpacking Permit Anywhere by Katie Kommer QOTD: If you woke up tomorrow morning a billionaire, what’s the most extravagantly lavish thing you’d waste your money on? Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of failed candle scents The Candle Daddy: Shart 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by the Daley Family. Marketa and David Daley have been avid backpackers for many years, and have not let the addition of their three kids Sequoia (age 6), Joshua (age 4), and Standa (age 3) slow them down in the slightest. Their recent treks include thru-hikes of the Tahoe Rim Trail, 1,300 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, and 250 miles of the Appalachian Trail this year. Although we've interviewed thru-hiking families in the past, we cover some new ground here, including managing breastfeeding while backpacking, an honest portrayal of the challenges that come along with backpacking with three young kids and how that gets more challenging as the family grows, the events that are most likely to trigger meltdowns, dealing with critiques from the online community, and why they still wouldn't have it any other way. This is an insightful chat for anyone who's curious what it's like to backpack with multiple youngsters. We wrap the show with a story of a woman who was bitten by a black bear on the Appalachian Trail, the triple crown of backpacking-specific compliments, and an impromptu interview with a Patreon Chuck Norris Award Winner about backpacking on the Centennial Trail. Do you want to hike with Backpacker Radio? Fill out this survey to indicate your interest! RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Marketa and David Daley Daley's Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:02:48 - QOTD: Rank who gets the most excited when a pregnancy is announced 00:07:25 - Support us on Patreon to get bonus content! 00:11:20 - The TrovaTrip is happening! 00:13:30 - Introducing the Daley family 00:14:33 - What are everyone’s trail names? 00:16:22 - How did you two get into backpacking? 00:18:19 - Where did you move to America from? 00:20:31 - What was it like growing up in a PCT town? 00:22:22 - How did you both get into trail work? 00:23:14 - What was your thought process when you first got pregnant with Sequoia? 00:24:18 - What is the toughest age of kid to backpack with? 00:25:23 - We Love Love: tell us more about how you met and fell in love 00:31:00 - Was Sequoia a surprise? 00:32:03 - Walk us through the evolution from not wanting kids to having 3 of them 00:34:22 - Have all three of the kids adapted to the outdoors easily? 00:35:56 - At what point did the prospect of a long backpacking trip become feasible? 00:37:41 - What is it like to adopt a child and did backpacking play a role? 00:40:00 - How did Sequoia adapt to gaining a sibling? 00:42:40 - What was the main difference between backpacking with one kid versus two? 00:43:40 - Tell us about water crossings with kids 00:45:45 - Tell us about the Tahoe Rim Trail 00:47:40 - What does your backpacking schedule look like? 00:48:56 - How has hiking with kids changed your relationship with each other? 00:50:25 - Does any part of you feel like you’re sacrificing the way you want to hike? 00:52:31 - How do you gauge whether your kids are enjoying the hiking or not? 00:55:18 - Relative to their peers, what attributes do you think your kids have gained? 00:56:35 - Have you ever freaked out on trail about the kids? 00:58:02 - Tell us about breastfeeding and food on trail 01:00:30 - Tell us about hiking the PCT in 2022 01:03:00 - What is your gear setup? 01:04:50 - How did you ration water? 01:06:29 - Are the kids comfortable with night hiking? 01:07:28 - How do you prepare kids for dealing with rattlesnakes? 01:09:17 - At what age did you feel like you can cohesively communicate dangers to them? 01:10:22 - Tell us your best kid poop stories 01:12:32 - Is there a common meltdown trigger, and how do you deal with them? 01:15:40 - Tell us about your experiment on the last day of the AT 01:17:52 - What caused you to get off the AT? 01:20:25 - What has the feedback been on social media versus in real life? 01:25:37 - What’s the most common question you get? 01:28:22 - Do you feel pressure to set records as a hiking family? 01:30:00 - Would say either the PCT or AT is more kid friendly? 01:31:06 - How do you handle the threat of ticks on the AT? 01:32:00 - What’s next? 01:33:19 - Is there a non-obvious question related to kids hiking that we haven’t asked? SEGMENTS Chuck Norris Award Winner Interview Trek Propaganda A Woman Was Bitten by a Bear on the AT Last Month. Here’s What Happened by Bloodhound Triple Crown of backpacking-specific compliments Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, DoGoodPantry, Erik Hofmann, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, Matthew Spence, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Alina Drufovka aka Abstract. In addition to being a thru-hiker and adventurer, you're likely already familiar with the name Abstract because of her incredible and unique outdoor-themed artwork. We learn all about Alina's transformation from thru-hiker to now full-time artist, her time on the AT, PCT, and Israel National Trail, her current gig as an Ambassadors on the Get Outside Tour where she travels the country in a van alongside her boyfriend, attending outdoor events, leading clinics, and overall spreading joy to the people. Abstract is nothing but good vibes and this is a spirited interview that will elicit smiles. We wrap the show with a chat about why cell phones don't appear in dreams (or do they?), a story about a PCT hiker who was bit by a rattlesnake, a triple crown of people who are probably serial killers, and more! Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  Do you want to hike with Backpacker Radio? Fill out this survey to indicate your interest! RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. Goodr: Use code “BACKPACKER” for free shipping on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” for 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com. [divider] Interview with Alina “Abstract” Drufovka Abstract's Instagram Abstract's Website REI Embark Program Get Outside Tour Time stamps & Questions 00:04:01 - QOTD: Have cell phones ever appeared in your dreams? 00:09:55 - Reminders: Is it or is it not Rachel’s birthday? 00:13:25 - Introducing Alina 00:14:20 - Tell us about hiking the AT 1.5 times 00:17:20 - We Love Love! 00:22:16 - Discussion about being half Colombian, half Jewish 00:24:52 - How did your love blossom along the trail? 00:26:10 - How did you learn about the AT at age 13? 00:27:57 - What was it like retracing your steps two years after being injured? 00:28:40 - Tell us about the St. Patty’s party trail magic 00:34:00 - Does your mom fit the stereotype of a nervous Jewish mom? 00:37:40 - What are the cornerstones of your grandma’s book? 00:41:10 - What was it like to get past the point where you got off trail the first time? 00:43:10 - Discussion about expressing interest in someone without being creepy 00:44:22 - What’s the story behind the Wonder Woman outfit? 00:46:15 - At what point did art intersect with thru-hiking? 00:48:00 - Discussion about Abstract’s art style 00:51:28 - Tell us about hiking the Israel National Trail in 2018 00:54:35 - What are towns like on the Israel National Trail? 00:55:44 - Discussion about making Aliyah and Birthright 00:58:02 - Did you feel safe on the Israel National Trail? 00:59:50 - What advice do you have for people interested in the Israel National Trail? 01:02:30 - Interlude: Rachel’s birthday! 01:05:15 - Tell us about the PCT in 2019 01:08:24 - What was it like to live in Colombia? 01:10:30 - What were the biggest differences between Colombia and Israel? 01:11:15 - How did you turn your art into a business? 01:15:45 - Tell us about the Embark program 01:16:27 - Have you experienced imposter syndrome? 01:19:57 - How do you decide when to release something new and price your art? 01:20:55 - What’s been your biggest business challenge? 01:22:53 - How do you deal with having your designs ripped off? 01:28:21 - What’s your inspiration for a new painting these days? 01:29:29 - What is the Get Outside tour? 01:33:58 - How many events will you attend? 01:35:01 - Did you get to customize the van? 01:38:40 - What events are coming up on the tour? 01:39:40 - Fuck Marry Kill: Appalachian Trail, Pacific Trail, Israel National Trail 01:40:10 - What piece of art are you most proud of? 01:41:31 - Describe your art to the listeners 01:43:30 - Where can people follow you? 01:44:14 - Tell us about living on a commune 01:50:37 - Are you interested in polyamory? 01:51:30 - If you could bring an aspect of commune life into your regular life, what would it be? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda PCT Hiker Hospitalized After Rattlesnake Bite by Kelly Floro Stupid Thing of the Week Listener Voicemail Triple Crown of people who might be serial killers Mail Bag 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are re-joined by friend of the show, Renee "She-ra" Patrick. She-ra is a triple crowner whose backpacking experience you heard all about in episode 44, today we catch up on all she's been up to since last being on the show, including hikes on the Blue Mountains Trail, the Corvallis to Sea Trail, re-visiting the AT as a southbounder, and more. Renee also walks us through her latest endeavor and mission to help long-distance organizations improve the trail experience for hikers and to bring awareness to conservation efforts on trails across the country. We wrap the show with things our parents told us that we're now pretty sure is a lie, the triple crown of ways we're turning into our parents, a few ways to save money in town as a thru-hiker, and more. Enlightened Equipment: Use code “EETREK10” 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.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Renee “She-ra” Patrick Renee Patrick Consulting Renee's Blog Renee's Instagram Long-Distance Trail Consulting | Hiker Survey Blue Mountains Trail | Greater Hells Canyon Council Greater Hart-Sheldon: Sagebrush Stronghold Story Map Time stamps & Questions 00:03:28 - QOTD: What’s something your parents used to tell you that you’re now pretty sure is a lie? 00:06:30 - Introducing She-ra 00:07:05 - Catch us up on your last 4 years 00:08:48 - Tell us about the Wallowa Mountains in Oregon 00:10:20 - Discussion about managing the Oregon Desert Trail 00:12:30 - What kind of issues occur in that area? 00:14:11 - What is the number one challenge with building a trail? 00:16:00 - What’s your trail resume? 00:18:00 - What was it like hiking on the AT 20 years after your first thru-hike? 00:20:30 - What is your favorite thing about route hiking? 00:21:40 - Fuck Marry Kill: Trails, Routes, Consulting 00:22:28 - Do you have suggestions for approachable routes? 00:26:00 - What does the research look like for the first person to hike a route? 00:28:30 - What are common mistakes people make when starting routes? 00:32:10 - Tell us about the Corvallis to Sea Trail 00:37:20 - Discussion about the Three Sisters Trail and the Up North Loop 00:41:38 - If someone wanted to start their own trail, what roles do they need to fill? 00:47:16 - Can you estimate how long it takes to make a trail based on the mileage? 00:49:09 - What is a National Recreation Trail? 00:51:30 - Tell us about your consulting business 00:56:00 - Do you work with both trail organizations and hikers? 00:58:15 - What practical things can organizations recommend to hikers? 01:04:08 - Zach’s pitch idea for Renee 01:04:55 - Where can people fill out your survey? 01:05:56 - How do you narrow down your focus? 01:09:00 - Tell us about your logo design work 01:12:00 - Tell us about the dabbling you’ve done in GIS 01:15:28 - What parting messages do you have for the listeners? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Top 10 Ways to Save Money in Town by Eloise Robbins Stupid Thing of the Week Triple Crown of ways you’re turning into your parents Mail Bag (artist mentioned) 5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow 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 & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Christopher Marshburn, Dayne, DoGoodPantry, Greg McDaniel, Liz Seger, Matt Soukup, Mike Poisel, Morgan Luke, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy “Trigger” Fawns. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jake Landgraf, Jeanne Latshaw, Jeff LaFranier, Joann Menzer, Keith Dobie Jr, Kelly Heikkila, and Peter.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Briana DeSanctis aka Rocky Mountain High. Briana is currently hiking the 6,800 mile American Discovery Trail and upon completing this trail, she will be the first solo woman to ever accomplish this feat. We obviously swan dive deep on everything to do with hiking the ADT, including the specifics of the route, how much of it is on single track vs road, some of the highlight stops along the trail, how she manages resupply and water, what's to love and hate about the trail, and more. Briana is a riot and has no shortage of fun stories from this very wild endeavor. Grab your popcorn, strap in, and enjoy. We wrap the show with a story about a mom hiking the AT alongside her 15 kids, the triple Crown of people who ought to be on the first rocket to Mars, and we opine if people without inner monologues actually exist. Do you want to hike with Backpacker Radio? Fill out this survey to indicate your interest! Organifi: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Gossamer Gear: Use code “TAKELESSTREKMORE” for 15% off at gossamergear.com.  RTIC Outdoors: Shop at rticoutdoors.com. [divider] Interview with Briana DeSanctis Briana's Instagram Briana's Facebook American Discovery Trail Time stamps & Questions 00:05:04 - QOTD: Are people without internal monologues more likely to quit thru-hikes? 00:09:07 - Reminders: Check out updates from the PCTA here! 00:10:00 - Introducing Briana 00:11:15 - What got you into the outdoors? 00:13:40 - Where should people visit in Maine? 00:15:30 - Are you a lobster snob? 00:17:30 - Tell us about starting the AT 00:21:00 - Did you feel prepared for the AT? 00:23:07 - How did the hike compare with your expectations? 00:25:01 - What were your best meltdowns on the AT? 00:31:00 - How did you adjust your interactions with strangers after that? 00:31:57 - What are your tips for hitchhiking? 00:35:22 - Give us the highlights of what you did between the AT and ADT 00:41:05 - What are the basic fun facts of the ADT? 00:46:41 - What are the selling points of either the northern or southern routes? 00:50:57 - Discussion about walking through cities 00:54:39 - Tell us about how you navigate the trail 00:56:20 - What drew you to hiking the ADT? 00:59:50 - Will you be the first woman to thru-hike the ADT? 01:02:30 - What kind of carts do people push? 01:04:20 - How many people have hiked the ADT? 01:04:54 - How much of the hike is on road versus single-track? 01:08:19 - Why did you almost die from heat exhaustion? 01:13:02 - What is cell reception like on the ADT? 01:14:09 - Fill us in on your timeline? 01:16:39 - How often do you resupply? 01:18:20 - What keeps you motivated to continue on this trail? 01:20:40 - Are you taking notes or journaling? 01:23:00 - What’s a good story that will definitely be included in your book? 01:24:45 - Tell us about shitting your pants 01:32:05 - Zach’s AT poop story 01:33:05 - Briana’s creative shits 01:40:08 - Discussion about sleeping in bathrooms 01:42:35 - Discussion about planning mileage and places to camp 01:45:04 - Discussion about Briana’s interactions with police 01:50:00 - Discussion about people giving Briana things 01:52:22 - If you could pick one chain to eat at for the rest of the trail, what would you pick? 01:54:51 - What one town stands out to you? 02:01:30 - Fuck Marry Kill: the states you’ve been through thus far 02:05:55 - Fuck Marry Kill: road trails, rail trails, trail trails 02:06:53 - Is there one restaurant experience that stands out to you? 02:12:15 - Discussion about staying with people in towns 02:15:04 - Discussion about the common questions people ask 02:18:14 - What sort of takeaway do you think you’ll leave the ADT with? 02:19:24 - How has this experience changed your perspective on our country? 02:25:03 - What’s the deal with your flip flops? 02:31:30 - What’s your best elevator pitch for the American Discovery Trail? 02:34:05 - Where can people follow you? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda 32 Feet Up: A Single Mom and Her 15 Kids Hike the Appalachian Trail by Bloodhound Triple Crown of people who should be on the first rocket to Mars [divider] Check out our sound guy @paulyboyshallcross. Leave us a voicemail! Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years. 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