Backpacker Radio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, the nepotism continues as I'm joined by my 2011 AT pal (drink), Melissa "Click" Goodwin.  In addition to an extensive backpacking resume, Melissa is a professional photographer and the founder at Girl Gotta Hike, a guiding company for women based out of New York.  We of course take a trip down memory lane- trading some of our favorite moments from the AT in 2011 (drink), we also talk about what it's like to thru-hike with a parent, how Melissa and her husband Donni make due with her being gone for such long stretches, some of the tricks behind the trade of food photography, and we learn all about Click's foray into becoming a professional hiking guide. We wrap the show with a brand new segment- who do you think you are I am of the week.   IndexIQ: You no longer need to choose between supporting the environment and investing in your financial future. Visit clnretf.com today! Be sure to read IndexIQ information below before investing.  Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com.  Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 20% off your entire purchase. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek10” here.  [divider] Interview with Melissa “Click” Goodwin Melissa Goodwin Photography Girl Gotta Hike Time stamps & Questions 00:03:38 - QOTD: There is an old man who lives deep in the forest. He’s immortal and was born in the year 0. If you get to ask him one question, what do you ask? 00:06:30 - Welcome Melissa Click Goodwin  00:07:20 - Which hike, aside from the AT, would you do again?  00:10:12 - What does your body feel like at that elevation? 00:11:55 - The Himalayan Rescue Association  00:13:16 - The Wonderland Trail  00:13:57 - How many days did it take to complete?  00:14:51 - Section and day-hiking the AT 00:15:39 - What was Zach like when he was on the AT?  00:16:08 - At what point did Zach and Melissa meet on the AT?  00:16:50 - Okay…but what was Zach like when he was on the AT? 00:18:24 - Anything embarrassing about Zach?  00:20:20 - Do you ever get shit for aqua blazing?  00:21:47 - Was that a thing back in the day?  00:24:54 - What did you enjoy about hiking with your dad?  00:27:14 - What did you learn about your dad that you didn’t know before the trail?  00:28:05 - Would you describe your relationship as being strong even before the AT?  00:29:44 - Did you share a water filter as well?  00:30:49 - Did you find any issues with using Aquamira? 00:31:35 - Any other points that were challenging when hiking with your dad? 00:33:45 - If you could go back and advise yourself and your dad on how to smooth out those edges, what would you recommend?  00:36:21 - Did you have any rules when it came to gear sharing?  00:38:09 - Do you feel like your mom became more comfortable with your dad hiking as time went on? 00:39:27 - How did your bond with your dad change after the AT?  00:42:34 - Talk through your photography setup while on trail 00:44:50 - Technology advancements since 2011  00:47:17 - What was your reaction to your fiancé going on a thru-hike? 00:49:03 - Was it stressful getting married right after the AT?  00:52:04 - Donny, how do you feel the AT changed Melissa?  00:55:59 - How do you handle Melissa being gone for other hikes?  01:00:03 - How did you profit off of photos from your hike?  01:01:56 - Plug your website: melissagoodwinphotography.com  01:02:07 - What was the Nat Geo assignment?  01:04:02 - What goes into good food photography?  01:05:14 - So you are actually preparing the meals?  01:06:50 - Do you modify the food before it’s photographed? 01:09:44 - What’s the craziest food trick that you’ve used?  01:11:00 - What’s the most delicious thing you’ve ever shot?  01:14:54 - Can you recall the grossest thing you’ve shot?  01:16:55 - Walk us through “Girl Gotta Hike”  01:19:03 - What does it take to get a guide license?  01:19:32 - Did you need to take a test?  01:21:35 - Do you need insurance?  01:23:24 - Walk us through the evolution of “Girl Gotta Hike”  01:24:19 - What do you limit the hikes at?  01:25:14 - What’s the typical age range you get?  01:27:00 - What’s the most challenging part of running a guiding service? 01:31:15 - What goes into finding a good location?  01:34:25 - How many repeat hikers do you have?  01:35:22 - Tell me about the podcast side of your business 01:37:47 - Are you planning the hike for Chaunce?  01:41:46 - Would you rather be forced to live the same day over and over again for a full year or take 3 years off the end of your life? 01:42:32 - Would you rather have a hike planned for 15 people and 40 show up, or a hike planned for 15 and 0 show up? 01:44:47 - Would you rather be smacked in the face with a fish or farted on? 01:46:26 - Would you rather have one free year to go backpacking and never be able to go again, or have only one free week each year but get to go every year? SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The PCT Thru-Hike Checklist: 29 Things To Do Before You Start Who do you think you are I am?  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.  IndexIQ Investing Involves Risk. Consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and the statement of additional information include this and other relevant information about the Funds and are available by visiting CLNRetf.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. IndexIQ® is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Investment Management Holdings LLC and serves as the advisor to the IndexIQ ETFs. ALPS Distributors, Inc. (ALPS) is the principal underwriter of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a distributor of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is located at 30 Hudson Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with NYLIFE Distributors LLC. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a Member FINRA/SIPC.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by CDT thru-hikers and TikTok celebrities, Renee and Tim.  The duo gives us a rundown on their recent CDT trek, the trail and backpacking scene around Germany, where they currently reside, and we go in-depth about their rise to fame on TikTok, including how the platform's culture differs from Instagram, their methodology in posting catchy content, and how their fame impacted their CDT thru-hike.  We wrap the show with a triple crown of childhood crushes, Chaunce and Badger give a quick update on our state of the union for backpacking footwear, and we learn about a new documentary from a former Backpacker Radio guest.   IndexIQ: You no longer need to choose between supporting the environment and investing in your financial future. Visit clnretf.com today! Be sure to read IndexIQ information below before investing.  Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Excludes Black Friday sale, between 11/15-12/7. Goodr discount code: Use code “backpacker15” to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket with code “trek10” here.  [divider] Interview with Renee & Tim Time stamps & Questions 00:03:38 - QOTD: What’s the most cringey pick-up line? 00:06:34 - Introducing Renee & Tim  00:07:06 - What is your hiking resume?  00:07:56 - How did you land in Germany?  00:08:35 - Were you intentionally searching for international jobs?  00:09:28 - Is the university system in Germany fee?  00:10:06 - Are there any other stark differences between universities?  00:10:53 - Were you avid hikers before the PCT?  00:11:48 - Where in the Chicago area are you from?  00:12:11 - How long have you been together? 00:12:22 - Where did you go to school?  00:13:18 - Why the CDT and not the AT?  00:14:30 - Can you share about the alternates of the CDT?  00:15:53 - Are there areas where the alternates are considered better than others?  00:17:04 - Did you have to battle any snow?  00:18:39 - Would you recommend staying off the Facebook pages?  00:19:13 - What were you using for Beta?  00:21:25 - Were you fairly comfortable with the snow on the CDT? 00:22:13 - Do you know the backstory of the “Dirty Money” name?  00:22:57 - Where in Wisconsin are you from, Renee?  00:23:19 - Did you encounter any life-threatening weather?  00:25:11 - How do the extremes compare between PCT to CDT?  00:26:52 - Tell us the story about your water story!  00:28:47 - What was your water carrying strategy?  00:31:14 - Did you get used to drinking out of cow tanks?  00:34:53 - Tell us about the wildlife you saw  00:38:38 - Were you filming for TikTok? 00:39:20 - Were you TikToking prior to your CDT hike?  00:40:50 - How produced are the videos?  00:42:45 - How many of your videos are pointing to text boxes?  00:44:18 - Did your large following impact your hike?  00:44:49 - Did it ever get to be too much?  00:45:33 - Were people meeting you in upcoming towns?  00:46:51 - Are you getting the same fan behavior in Germany?  00:47:40 - Tell us a little more about your business 00:49:38 - Are you seeing good traction from your TikTok fame?  00:50:45 - What was the response from the hiking community?  00:55:34 - What demographic do you reach on TikTok?  00:56:54 - How often do you run into people that offer you drinks?  00:57:32 - What advice do you have for people looking to grow on TikTok?  00:59:15 - Is Germany going through COVID challenges right now?  01:00:48 - Do you see similarities between Florida and Germany?  01:02:02 - What trails would you recommend in Germany?  01:04:27 - What is the backpacking/hiking culture like in Germany?  01:06:23 - If work weren’t a tether, would you still be in Germany?  01:07:46 - Any 2022 hiking plans?  01:09:39 - Thank you Tim & Renee!    SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Breaking Trail, Film About Emily Ford’s Ice Age Trail Thru-Hike, Premiers at BANFF Festival Pics Or It Didn’t Happen: Is Social Media Ruining Thru-Hiking? Triple crown of childhood crushes  Mailbag  5 Star Review [divider] Check out our sound guy @Paulybooyshallcross. Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play. Support us on Patreon to get bonus content. Advertise on Backpacker Radio Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube. Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok.  A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Ausen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Patrick Cianciolo, Brandon Spilker and Matt Soukup. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth,, Emily Brown, Mitchell, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven, TraskVT, Lindsay Sparks, Liz Seger and Lisa Douglas.  IndexIQ Investing Involves Risk. Consider the Funds’ investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. The prospectus and the statement of additional information include this and other relevant information about the Funds and are available by visiting CLNRetf.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. IndexIQ® is an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of New York Life Investment Management Holdings LLC and serves as the advisor to the IndexIQ ETFs. ALPS Distributors, Inc. (ALPS) is the principal underwriter of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a distributor of the ETFs. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is located at 30 Hudson Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302. ALPS Distributors, Inc. is not affiliated with NYLIFE Distributors LLC. NYLIFE Distributors LLC is a Member FINRA/SIPC.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by backpacking legend Nimble Nomad. The name is likely familiar as Nimblewill Nomad recently made news for setting the record as the oldest person to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail at 83 years old. We learn all about this odyssey- and he does not sugarcoat how challenging it was. He also shares some of the wisdom he's accrued over his many tens of thousands of miles on trail, which can be applied to both your on and off-trail worlds.  We close the show with a triple crown of rooms in the house and some gift ideas for the backpacker in your life. IndexIQ: You no longer need to choose between supporting the environment and investing in your financial future. Visit clnretf.com today! Be sure to read IndexIQ information below before investing.  Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “littledonkeygirl” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Excludes Black Friday sale, between 11/15-12/7. Organifi discount code: Go to organifi.com/backpacker, use code “backpacker” and get 25% off everything in the store and free shipping within the U.S. from 11/26-11/30. After those dates, get 20% off your entire purchase with code “backpacker”  Minus33: Head to minus33.com and use promo code “21backpacker15” for 15% off your order [divider] Interview with Nimblewill Nomad Time stamps & Questions 00:03:44 - QOTD: What single scene ruined an entire movie/TV series/franchise?  00:10:30 - Reminders: Backpacker Radio Sponsorship & Fundraising  00:11:38 - Introducing Nimblewill Nomad  00:12:25 - How did you get started in the world of hiking and backpacking?  00:15:05 - Did you always intend to go that far?  00:16:31 - Was there any part of you that wanted to finish at Katahdin?  00:18:36 - Does it get harder every time you finish?  00:21:10 - What is your terminology for your thru-hikes? 00:22:52 - What’s the difference between your 1998 hike and 2000/2001 hike?  00:29:04 - What’s the difference between the International AT and U.S. AT?  00:33:23 - Did you intentionally try to break the record for oldest AT hiker?  00:35:10 - Why did you name it your last trail?  00:37:04 - How did the difficulties of this hike compare to other times on the AT?  00:39:38 - Why did you add an additional 420 miles to your AT hike?  00:42:56 - Why do you call your thru-hikes odysseys?  00:49:25 - Are there any profound spiritual differences to who you are today?  00:52:23 - Any wisdom you’d relay to former you or others listening?  00:58:07 - What were some of the most memorable parts of the AT hike?  01:04:00 - Is it true your base weight is 6 or 7 pounds? 01:04:47 - What do you carry with you?  01:08:00 - Nimblewill Nomad’s sponsors  01:13:10 - Would you like to speak about simplifying your belongings and life?  01:18:00 - Talk us through your philosophy of simple living off trail 01:20:53 - What was it like spending time with Dale “Grey Beard” Sanders  01:25:30 - Is there something similar between you and Grey Beard that motivates you to complete a goal like the AT?  01:31:52 - Can you talk us through how it felt to complete the hike?  01:34:50 - Anything you’d like our listeners to know before we close?   SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda If you want to learn more about Nimblewill Nomad, check out Kelly Floro’s article, Nimblewill Nomad, 83, Just Became the Oldest Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Get some gift ideas: Thru-Hiker Gift Guide $