Backpacker Radio

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Philip Carcia.  Have you heard of New Hampshire?  Because Philip has hiked it.  All of it.  Many times, in all different directions.  In addition to a handful of thru-hikes, Philip has completed the New Hampshire 48 Single Year Grid, the White Mountain Direttisima (twice), and White Mountain Redline FKT.  If you don't know what any of that means, good!  We will learn this together during our conversation. We wrap up the show with some news from the ATC, a new snail themed Reddit Brain Buster, we get some intel on the hot spots along the Ice Age Trail, and it's cicada season! Backcountry discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER15" to save 15% on your "first" purchase at Backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Feals.com discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to get 50% automatically taken off your first order with free shipping. [divider] Help us raise $100,000 for the trails and we'll get butt tattoos. Check out Hikerlink. [divider] Interview with Philip Carcia Instagram Facebook  00:04:36 - QOTD:  A burglar breaks into your home, but he only wants the stuff on the top of your fridge. What is he going to steal? 00:07:45 - Intro to Philip Carcia  00:10:16 - How did you get into hiking?  00:14:20 - What was your upbringing like until 16 when you went on your first hike?  00:16:22 - Did things snowball immediately after your first hike?  00:24:12 - Tell us what the Single Year Grid is: Hiking all 48 4,000’ mountains every month for a year 00:34:30 - What are the logistics like getting in between each mountain? Is there a lot of driving in between, etc.? 00:38:52 - What makes it appealing to do the same hikes over and over again?  00:43:51 - Fuck, Marry, Kill — the months of hiking in New England 00:47:46 - What’s the difference between the double single winter and a calendar grid?  00:50:58 - Has anyone done the calendar or single year grid since?  00:54:42 - Tell us about the Direttissima and how to pronounce it.  01:00:28 - Is this route all on trail? Off-trail? Roads?  01:03:32 - How steep are the trails that connect the 48? 01:09:58 - You hold a White Mountain Redline FKT — can you tell us what a White Mountain Redline is and about your experience?  01:19:55 - This sounds like one of your most extensive White Mountain feats?  01:20:15 - How intense is it to plan for a White Mountain Redline FKT?  01:30:44 - What are the best of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:31:16 - What is the hardest of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:32:13 - What is the easiest of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:32:37 - If you could only do one of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire for the rest of your life, which would it be?  01:33:11 - What is the worst marked of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:33:49 - What is the most underrated of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:35:15 - What is the most overrated of the 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:38:33 - What is the best named 48 4,000’ mountains in New Hampshire?  01:39:50 - What is a 48 4,000’ mountain in New Hampshire that you’d skip? 01:41:39 - Can you talk about the initiative you founded?  01:47:00 - Where can people keep up with Summits in Solidarity?  Instagram Facebook 01:48:30 - Where do we find Philip?  Instagram Facebook    SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda Black Forest Trail Profile  by Troy Zohner The ATC Will Not Recognize Thru-Hikers During Pandemic by Kelly Floro  Minor Inconveniences  Reddit Brain Buster  After lightning strikes your garden, you gain the ability to communicate with snails and they follow your commands. What will you ask them to do? Cicada Season  Horse Fact from Erin Potter Unlike humans who produce stomach acid when they ingest food, horses always produce stomach acid which makes it essential that they have something to eat so that they don’t develop ulcers. Mail Bag  5 Star Reviews [divider] 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. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), and Cameron Brown. A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven. Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Bekah and Derrick Quirin.  In 2017, the Quirins thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail with their adorable baby, Ellie, alongside.  We learn how in the hell this is possible, including their diaper logistics, gear setup, nap schedule, and much more.  The very next year the Quirins cycled the 2,700 mile Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, again, with Ellie in tow.  We learn the of the unique challenges between thru-hiking and thru-biking, the differences between hiking with a baby and a toddler, and much more.   We close out the show with some Badger Baby Q&A, a round of toddler or drunk person trivia, Chaunce gives us her best patent pending invention yet, and Zach does his best to string coherent sentences together despite some punishing sleep deprivation. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com [divider] Help us raise $100,000 for the trails and we'll get butt tattoos. Check out Hikerlink. [divider] Interview with The Quirins The Dirtbag Baby on Instagram  Valleyforestschool.com for Forest School in Roanoke, VA or Greenville, SC 00:04:20 - QOTD: At what age does a baby become a true thru-hiker? 00:05:46 - Donate to the Butt tattoo campaign 00:06:51 - Introduction to the Quirins who Thru-Hiked the AT in 2017 with their baby, Ellie. 00:08:02 - What was the inspiration to thru-hike with a baby? And how old was Ellie when you took on the thru-hike? 00:09:27 - How old was Ellie when you decided to hike? 00:09:37 - Is it scary to have a 6-month-old and be selling everything? 00:10:50 - Is Ellie just starting to walk when you started the trail? 00:11:26 - Did Ellie walk at all on the trail? 00:12:10 - Where on the trail did Ellie take her first steps? 00:12:45 - Did you hike northbound? 00:13:34 - What are the carrying logistics with gear and the baby?  00:14:37 - How heavy was the whole family’s gear?  00:15:46 - Can you tell us more about your sleep system? 00:16:51 - Was the quilt also made by thermarest? Yes, the Vela HD down quilt. 00:17:16 - What kind of diaper system were you using?  00:18:09 - They make compostable diaper liners? Yes, G-Diapers. 00:18:24 - What was the weight of diaper liners by the time you got to town? 00:20:07 - What was Ellie eating on the trail? 00:20:18 - What age do babies switch from canned mushy stuff to normal stuff? 00:20:51 - Did Ellie have a favorite trail meal?  00:21:47 - Did Ellie’s temperament change on the trail vs. in town?  00:23:17 - How did you guys deal with rain on the AT?  00:24:38 - What pack did you use for Ellie’s carrying case? And how did you decide on that?  00:26:28 - Did you know how steep the northern part of the trail would be? 00:28:21 - What did other hikers think about you hiking with the baby?  00:29:36 - Is Ellie the youngest to do the AT?  00:30:42 - How did Ellie sleep through the night on the AT?  00:32:49 - Does Ellie remember the trail? 00:33:47 - Can you tell us about a high and low point on the AT?  00:38:16 - Can you elaborate on forest school?  00:38:55 - What’s a standard day at forest school like?  00:39:38 - Have you noticed Ellie now has a natural affinity for being outdoors?  00:40:50 - Does Ellie consider being outside normal or being home more normal? 00:42:17 - Do you think having hiked the AT but not having a memory of it will be weird for Ellie?  00:43:38 - Can you tell us about your family bike-packing?  00:44:44 - How does bike-packing compare to hiking with a baby? 00:45:51 - Did you guys have to deal with terrible twos? 00:48:32 - Why did you prefer to ride at night on the Great Divide trip?  00:49:00 - Did you ever see grizzly bears?  00:49:19 - How long did the 2,800 miles take and how long was your average day?  00:49:35 - What kind of mileage were you doing on the AT?  00:50:01 - What’s your approach for the mileage you do on your trips?  00:50:26 - How much did you sleep if you were trying to hike or ride while she sleeps? 00:51:03 - What’s a normal night of sleep for you guys?  00:51:59 - How much does Ellie sleep on trips?  00:53:08 - Was it easier to carry Ellie when she was asleep?  00:54:12 - Tell us about the ambitions of your family moving forward with a second baby on the way! 00:55:11 - Do you think your kids will grow up differently because of their young experiences on trail?  00:58:11 - Was it always a goal of yours with raising a kid to not be stuck to a rigid schedule? 00:59:24 - Does Ellie take it harder when you guys are away since she spent so much time with you at a young age?  01:01:45 - What was Ellie’s first word?  01:03:00 - Any advice for other parents?  01:04:51 - Any staples to carry for the baby?  01:06:50 - How much is a down jacket for a 1-year-old?  01:07:07 - Do you have any brands in mind for babies?  01:09:00 - Any parting words?  The Dirtbag Baby on Instagram  Valleyforestschool.com for Forest School in Roanoke, VA or Greenville, SC   SEGMENTS The 2020 AT Section Hiker Survey: Motives and Logistics by Mariposa  2021 PCT Long-distance Permits Will be Issued; Portal to Open January 19 by Kelly Floro  Patent Pending: Guacarollie  Horse Baby Facts   Dad Q&A  Toddler or Drunk Person?  Triple Crown of NFL teams Chaunce picks: Bills, Buccaneers, Rams  Zachs picks: Chiefs, Packers, Saints  Mail Bag  [divider] 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. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are once again joined by Andrew Skurka- and as you might’ve already guessed, it does not disappoint.  We touch on a range of different subjects in today’s show ranging from how COVID effected his guiding business, to why wildfires have been so bad in the west over the past couple of decades (and the reason might surprise you), to Andrew’s favorite trail meals, to the intricacies of the backcountry bidet, to picking the perfect campsite, to layering in the winter, and much more.  Put simply, you will enjoy this chat. We round out the show with a reminder of our impending butt tattoos, a triple crown of the worst chores, an explosive butthole patent-pending, picking death by shark or mountain lion, and some horse facts, crab edition. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Feals.com discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to get 50% automatically taken off your first order with free shipping. [divider] Help us raise $100,000 for the trails and we'll get butt tattoos. Apply to be a Trail Correspondent. Check out Hikerlink. How to Get a Job In the Outdoor Industry by Kelly Floro  New Podcast Seeking Research Intern (A Juliana Chauncey Project) Backpacker Radio Book Bundle  [divider] Interview with Andre Skurka Andrew's Previous Backpacker Radio Epsidoe (33) Andrewskurka.com  00:04:49 - Intro to Andrew Skurka 00:06:38 - What has Andrew done since 2019?  00:07:53 - Is it usually bigger nes in the FKT world when someone breaks a record rather than setting one?  00:09:28 - Was 2019 mostly dedicated to the guiding business?  00:10:20 - How did guiding go in 2020?  00:12:15 - What was your thought process on when to pull a plug on a trip for 2020?  00:14:48 - You also dealt with a lot of fires this year correct?  00:15:14 - How many clients are usually on each trip?  00:15:40 - Did you run into any problems with the number of people?  00:17:04 - How are you feeling about trips in 2021?  00:24:41 - Are people going to have to submit whether or not they’ve been vaccinated before going on a trip?  00:25:56 - Did the 2020 fire season impact how you are scheduling trips in 2021?  00:28:09 - What is your personal threshold for hiking in smoke?  00:34:19 - Do you want to speak to what is causing wildfires?  00:37:50 - What is the solution for wildfires?  00:40:20 - Is climate change part of the causes of wildfires?  00:41:00 - The Ted Talk Andrew shared on wildfires.  00:41:19 - Do you have tips for hiking in smoke/near wildfires? 00:43:09 - Would you ever consider making plan B’s for your trips?  00:45:00 - Can you touch on some of the trips you are looking forward to in 2021? 00:49:42 - How active are you with new gear testing?  00:51:10 - Skurka uses a pillow. 00:57:10 - Is there anything else you’ve used this year that you like?  01:01:10 - You’re a hunter right?  01:02:25 - What are some of your favorite backcountry recipes?  01:04:42 - Do you put anything with the protein powder?  01:05:27 - What does Skrurka eat in normal life?  01:06:10 - So you run fasted?  01:10:19 - People want to know about the backcountry bidet?  01:12:22 - Do you bury the things you use to wipe?  01:14:00 - Do you use an accessory? Do you poke a hole in the lid?  01:14:28 - Have you ever thought of making a video that demonstrates?  01:15:48 - How do you know you’re clean at the end?  01:16:39 - Wait, so you don’t just splash the water?  01:18:00 - Do you use soap on your hands after?  01:18:33 - Out of your high route guides, what is your top recommendation for beginners?  01:19:47 - What do you look for in picking the perfect campsite?  01:22:30 - Do you have any advice for beginner winter hiking/snowshoeing/backpacking? 01:28:03 - What do you want to plug?  Andrewskurka.com    Segments How to Get a Job In the Outdoor Industry by Kelly Floro  New Podcast Seeking Research Intern (A Juliana Chauncey Project)  How much money would you have to be paid to be someone’s personal bidet assistant?  Triple Crown of Chores You Hate  Patent Pending: A Washer and Dryer in One Machine  Horse Hermit Crab Facts QOTD: Would you rather be trapped in a cage with a mountain lion or a pool with a bull shark?  Mail Bag [divider] 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. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, is 2020 personified. And by that, I mean it's a genuine shit show. Today's show runs the gamut, we drunk dial some fans, introduce a slew of new segments, play some trivia (grab a drink if you'd like to play along), and are given a play-by-play of some soiled denim courtesy of The Real Hiking Viking. As if that weren't enough the trio consumes enough adult beverages to commit to getting quasi-matching butt tattoos if you, our Backpacker Radio listeners, deem it worthwhile. This is our longest episode yet, by a lot, and exceptionally weird.  Strap in. Zpacks discount code: Use code: BPRPLEX for $25 off any plex tent at zpacks.com. [divider] Help us raise $100,000 for the trails and we'll get butt tattoos. Backpacker Radio Book Bundle  Thru-Hiking Coaching with Zach and Chaunce How to Save Money for a Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro discount code: Use code: IPOOPED for 15% off. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] 00:03:50 - QOTD: What would you put in a 2020 time capsule?  00:08:09 - 2021 Predictions  00:59:00 - Drunk Dialing The Real Hiking Viking  01:08:24 - Drunk Dialing with Smelly Melly / Frontline 01:15:00 - Drunk Dialing with John 01:19:00 - BPR stats  01:25:41 - Drunk Dialing with Julian  01:28:30 - Drunk Dialing with Katie  01:32:55 - Top 10 Countries that listen to Backpacker Radio  01:35:38 - Pits and Peaks of 2020 01:40:00 - Drunk Dialing with Chirstopher Marshburn  01:48:21 - Drunk Dialing with Crystal  01:58:10 - Drunk Dialing with Katie Again 01:59:30 - Drunk Dialing with Kate aka Stickerz  02:09:18 - Drunk Dialing with Rob 02:18:00 - Drunk Dialing with Logan and Kevin 02:26:21 - Trivia with Zach  02:47:27 - Drunk Dialing with Nicholas  02:52:50 - Surprise appearance from Ballflap 02:57:40 - Drunk Dialing with Dot 03:10:00 - More Pits and Peaks  03:19:27 - Drunk Dialing with Zane and Anton  03:35:00 - (ISH?) The beginning of the butt tattoo discussion 03:51:00 - Mail Bag    Comment _____ to win a sticker  [divider] 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. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Cindy Ross.  Cindy is a bonafide renaissance woman.  She's published nine books, with two more on the way, she's a triple crowner, illustrator, and avid traveler. But, the bulk of our conversation today centers around Cindy's novel approach to raising children.  In a nutshell, Cindy and her husband believe that kids should fold into your lifestyle, and not the other way around, as evidenced by their family of four taking on the CDT in section hikes beginning when their kids were just toddlers.  Cindy schools us on experiential education, the trick to successful homeschooling, and why you shouldn't let kids get in the way of your adventurous pursuits.  Whether you have kids, are planning on it in the future, or not, I am confident you will enjoy our conversation. We also do the triple crown of sauces, unveil 2020's naughty and nice lists, and hop in our time machines and prevent the development of two movies.  Zpacks discount code: Use code: BPRPLEX for $25 off any plex tent at zpacks.com. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Backpacker Radio Book Bundle  Thru-Hiking Coaching with Zach and Chaunce How to Save Money for a Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro discount code: Use code: IPOOPED for 15% off. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Cindy Ross Cindy’s website  [divider] 00:03:36 - QOTD: What is the best book you’ve read in 2020?  00:09:52 - Cindy Ross, will you tell us about your background?  00:13:58 - So you were a trail angel to your husband?  00:14:21 - How did you keep in touch with your husband? Did you have an initial romantic interest? 00:16:43 - Do you think getting the same injury is a symbol of romance?  00:17:13 - What years did you hike the AT?  00:17:25 - What did the AT look like in the ’70s compared to now?  00:17:54 - How many people were you seeing on the AT? 00:18:06 - Was the trail as maintained as it is now?  00:18:33 - You did the AT in two halves? Where did you start each time? 00:18:56 - What was the typical demographic on the AT at the time?  00:19:16 - What was the hostel culture like?  00:19:43 - What were resupplies like?  00:20:23 - So you hiked the AT with a friend? 00:21:03 - Were there trail logs when you hiked the AT? 00:21:14 - Do you still have your gear?  00:22:05 - Your book is also a sketchbook right?  00:22:17 - What does your process look like?  00:22:37 - Did you make your own shelter?  00:22:44 - How did you know what to make?  00:23:44 - Did anyone want to buy the gear you made?  00:24:17 - What inspired you to continue the AT in ‘89? 00:24:44 - Did you end up liking the second leg more? 00:25:42 - Is there anything else you want to say about the AT? What differences do you notice between the AT in the late ’70s and today?  00:27:10 - Do you think the ATC should institute a permit system?  00:28:34 - When was your PCT hike? 00:28:38 - What was the PCT like in ‘82 and ‘84?  00:28:58 - Who was “we” on the PCT?  00:29:50 - Did you find people in the desert section of the PCT?  00:30:15 - Was the trail well marked at the time? Did you get lost?  00:30:58 - Through the desert, what were your longest water carries?  00:31:34 - Did you know what you were signing up for when you started the PCT?  00:31:54 - Did you dislike snow travel before the PCT? 00:33:29 - Were you carrying any devices to help you? 00:33:43 - Did you have anything like an InReach?  00:34:00 - What was it like to hitch in the ’80s? Did people know what you were talking about when you said you were hiking the PCT? 00:34:54 - What did you tell people when you are hitching?  00:36:37 - How much do llamas cost?  00:37:41 - What are the advantages of llamas over horses?  00:38:21 - What’s the maximum weight you can put on a llama? Specifically in terms of a kid? 00:39:14 - Did you know anything about llamas previously? 00:40:12 - Did you just borrow the llamas for the duration of the trail? 00:40:50 - How do you maintain a llama? 00:41:38 - How long do llamas usually live? 00:41:49 - Do you have any llama facts?  00:42:43 - Do you grow attached to llamas like you would a dog?  00:44:20 - When the llamas are walking do they have reins? How does that work?  00:45:40 - Do you just tie the llamas to a tree when they get to camp? 00:45:53 - Were there any first aid considerations for llamas?  00:46:43 - Did you ever have to worry about mountain lions?  00:48:37 - Do you still have llamas today? 00:48:52 - Are llamas lonely if they only have one? 00:49:12 - Can your goats carry gear?  00:49:30 - So the goats are just for companionship? 00:49:42 - How far can goats go? 00:50:10 - Can you tell us about the logistics of hiking with kids? How old were your kids on the CDT? 00:50:56 - Are there kid seats for the llamas? 00:51:29 - Did you have any hesitations about bringing your kids?  00:52:00 - Was sleeping with young kids an issue on the trail? 00:55:00 - How would the kids describe their experience?  00:55:37 - Can you offer a synopsis of what your kids wrote?  00:57:07 - Do your kids have tons of pets now?  01:01:37 - Was teaching your kids on the CDT in place of “actual” schooling? 01:02:55 - Was the Camino a cycling trip?  01:03:08 - Why are your kids so bright? 01:04:20 - How do you decide what is important to learn and what’s not? How do you decide what to focus on for homeschooling? 01:06:12 - Did you worry about the kids socially?  01:08:59 - Do you think giving kids the ability to choose their schooling made them want to learn more?  01:09:47 - When Bryce wants to learn about tsunamis, did you also have to learn about tsunamis? 01:10:29 - What is your kid’s relationship with technology today, since they grew up without TV?  01:11:29 - What is your take on parenting where screens are used so often? 01:15:08 - What advice do you have for other people wanting this lifestyle for their kids?  01:17:26 - Can you speak to the scientific studies about kids doing better in nature?  01:20:57 - Is there an audio version of your book? 01:21:16 - Can you define experiential education?  01:22:33 - Is there any risk of exposing your kid to stress?  01:24:30 - Are your kids still very outdoorsy? 01:24:50 - How old are your kids now?  01:25:02 - Was Sierra conceived in the place of her namesake? 01:25:47 - Can you really time the gender of your kid?  01:26:28 - Can you give us a rundown of your two new books coming out?  01:27:43 - Can you talk about some of the stories that inspired your book?  01:29:08 - Is it unanimous that the trail was the healing the veterans were looking for?  01:30:20 - Is there science to back up the efficacy of long-distance hiking and healing? 01:33:38 - What kind of carpentry skills did you have before building your log cabin?  Todd Gladfelter - Chainsaw artist (Cindy’s husband) Bryce Gladfelter - Illustrator (Cindy’s son)  01:35:19 - What are the metaphors people can take away from building a marriage while building a log cabin?  01:38:20 - Where should people go to hear more from you?  Cindy’s website    Segments Trek Propaganda  Gossamer Gear The DCF One Ultralight Tent Review Gossamer Gear The DCF Two Ultralight Tent Review Triple Crown of Sauces  2020 Naughty and Nice List How long is too long to leave up the holiday lights? And when should people take them down?  Mail Bag 5 Star Reviews [divider] 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. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.  

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined by Dr. Kristina Kiefer (that's back to back doctor episodes for those keeping score at home).  Dr. Kiefer is a veterinarian with a PhD in Veterinary Regenerative Medicine from the University of Minnesota.  But, of greater interest to you, not only does Dr. Kiefer have the medical expertise to advise about hiking with your dog, but she also walks the walk, having done significant miles on trail with her own pup.  Although we've broached the hiking with your dog subject on previous podcasts, Dr. Kiefer offers us concrete advice rooted in science. And seeing as both of your Backpacker Radio co-hosts are dog obsessed, we cover A LOT of ground in this interview ranging from how much weight a dog should carry, to what ages are appropriate for dogs to go on long distance hikes, to which breeds are best for backpacking, and more.  If you hike with your dog, are planning to one day hike with a dog, or just want some juicy #dogfacts, you will enjoy this conversation. We introduce a new segment, Dad Stuff, answer some burning listener questions, and chat about winter thru-hiking the AT.    Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: POOPSTORY for 15% off your purchase at gossamergear.com. Zpacks discount code: Use code: BPRPLEX for $25 off any plex tent at zpacks.com. [divider] Backpacker Radio Book Bundle  Thru-Hiking Coaching with Zach and Chaunce How to Save Money for a Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro discount code: Use code: IPOOPED for 15% off. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Dr.Kristina Kiefer @kristinakiefer @barefootprofessordvm www.vetssmart.com [divider] QOTD: What is something in your car’s center console that you derive too much joy from?  00:07:00 - How did you get into veterinary school and when did you know that animals, specifically dogs, were a passion of yours?  00:08:06 - How competitive is vet school?  00:08:48 - Is vet school cutthroat like law school?  00:11:03 - What is the most common procedure that you do?  00:11:38 - Are there dogs that are more likely to tear their ACL’s? 00:11:55 - Which breed is at the vet most often?  00:12:30 - What goes wrong with the dogs with smushed faces?  00:13:18 - Is it true that mutts are generally the healthiest?  00:14:47 - Where do Australian shepherds fall on the scale of health?  00:15:47 - Is there an inbreeding component to overbreeding? 00:16:52 - If you had to design the perfect trail dog, what would you pick?  00:17:49 - How do you feel about those dog genetic test kits?  00:19:04 - What are some of the key considerations people should take before bringing their dog on a thru-hike?  00:21:03 - What signs would you look for in a dog that isn’t having a good time? What cues can you look for that your dog isn’t doing well on a hike? 00:23:21 - Is it true that you shouldn’t put more than 10% of a dog’s weight in their pack?  00:24:44 - Do you have a recommendation for adjusting how much you are feeding your dog? 00:25:50 - What supplements were you giving your dog?  00:27:04 - Do you use the same food on the trail as you do at home? 00:27:47 - How big is your dog?   00:29:54 - Is there one ideal brand you would recommend?  00:30:54 - What do you feed your dog?  00:31:40 - Are there any specific ingredients you should look out for that will help or hurt?  00:34:19 - Is CBD good for dogs? 00:36:09 - Is CBD something you would consider giving your dog?  00:36:32 - Would you use CBD for anxiety for dogs?  00:37:44 - Does Harper’s nose turn pink because of allergies?  00:38:37 - Do you put sunscreen on dogs?  00:39:15 - If someone was walking with a light-skinned dog is that sunscreen something they should consider?  00:41:21 - What should someone consider before taking their dog on the PCT? 00:43:59 - Would you get your dog rattlesnake trained?  00:48:08 - Do you get special booties for your dog?  00:50:41 - How do you know when to put booties on your dog?  00:53:05 - What is Musher’s Secret?  00:53:24 - Would you put it on without the booties? 00:54:00 - Did you put anything on your dog’s paws overnight?  00:54:30 - How did you keep your dog from licking off the salve?  00:55:07 - Would you recommend someone go to the groomer throughout a thru-hike?  00:57:31 - Do all dogs need booties? And in what conditions do dogs need them?  00:58:45 - Can you do the run-through of the backpacking you’ve done with your dog?  00:59:47 - What age should dogs start backpacking? 01:02:44 - What signs should people look for that their dog might be too old for hiking or backpacking? 01:04:38 - Are there clear cut signs that a dog is having a terrible time on a hike?  01:08:07 - Would you recommend certain commands for people to learn before taking their dog on trail?  01:11:44 - Do you have tips for someone trying to train their dog for trail commands? And how do you feel with positive reinforcement being the only thing you use to train your dog?  01:13:09 - How do you train a dog (Harper) to go to your side or behind? 01:16:39 - Is there a side that’s easier to start with? 01:17:23 - Where can people keep up with Kristina?  @kristinakiefer @barefootprofessordvm www.vetssmart.com 01:18:37 - What kind of services do you offer through your website?    SEGMENTS   Trek Propaganda Use code: ihike for Patagonia Merch Is a Winter AT Thru-Hike Right For You? By Eloise Robbins Horse Ostrich Facts Dad Stuff! With Zach: Engine Lights IG Q&A What’s the best beer for trail magic? What’s the best piece of simple advice you have to offer? How do you handle backpacking with lightning in Colorado? Is there a chance mountain lions came back to the Appalachian mountains?  I wanna thru-hike but I already wasted 10 years of my life, what do I do? Most memorable view?  Chaunce Tea Plantation Pic What gives you the right?  5 Star Review [divider] 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. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we chat with Dr. Alan Carpenter.  Dr. Carpenter is the ultimate testament that age is just a number, as his entry into the long distance backpacking world didn't begin until the ripe age of 65.  Since then, he's accumulated somewhere in the vicinity of 20,000 miles on foot and another 10,000 miles on his bike.  His stories are gold, he's an injection of inspiration extract, and is as nice as could be. We also share how we would end relationships with our culinary skills, get some horse facts on octopuses, do a triple crown of white elephant gifts, and answer some burning listener questions.  

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Paul Barach.  Paul is an avid adventurer, but today, we focus in on his trek along Japan's Shikoku Pilgrimage, a 750-mile route that visits nearly 90 temples.  This was Paul's first backpacking trip, as evidenced by everything that went wrong, including suffering from heat exhaustion, dehydration, being charged by a wild boar, breaking a piece of an ancient temple, getting a leg infection, and more.  Not only do we get a good taste for the history of this island and pilgrimage, but Paul's stories are some truly hall of fame material. We do the triple crown of states, learn about the crap strap, and are blessed with a fan poop story.  Minus33 discount code (listen to episode to get the code): 15% off your first purchase at minus33.com. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code: POOPSTORY for 15% off your purchase at gossamergear.com. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug   Interview with Paul Barach Author of Fighting Monks and Burning Mountains: Misadventures on a Buddhist Pilgrimage Instagram: @barachoutdoors 00:04:28 - QOTD: How are you prepping for winter?  00:07:15 - If you’re hiking next year, apply to vlog, blog, or be an ambassador! 00:07:41 - Paul Barach intro 00:09:30 - How did you get into backpacking originally?  00:09:55 - What kind of ninjas were you obsessed with, specifically? 00:12:36 - After realizing your job sucked, how long did it take to get on trail?  00:13:47 - How did not prepping affect your pilgrimage?  00:15:04 - Can you tell us what the Shikoku pilgrimage entails? 00:16:49 - Can you tell us more about the history of the trail? 00:18:42 - Is there a guidebook for the trail (including the spiritual side)?  00:20:28 - How much traffic is there on this pilgrimage?  00:21:21 - Were you drawn by the religious aspect of the pilgrimage?  00:23:10 - Do you not need a backpack?  00:23:45 - Did you feel more spiritually enlightened from the experience?  00:24:40 - When did you start?  00:24:45 - What is the hiking season in Japan?  00:25:18 - What kind of temperatures were you dealing with?  00:26:00 - Did you have any issues with your sodium balance?  00:26:51 - What is the camping situation like?  00:28:21 - Are people in towns excited to see pilgrims?  00:29:38 - Did you learn Japanese while on the hike?  00:31:05 - How did you handle the logistics?  00:34:06 - Were you doing something wrong? Why couldn’t you find food?  00:34:52 - Do you hitch to town or walk through them?  00:35:21 - How is dried squid?  00:36:06 - How did you get charged by a boar?  00:38:00 - Were you second-guessing what you were doing?  00:43:20 - What is the story of you falling at an ancient temple and breaking a piece of it?  00:46:47 - What was wrong with your leg? How did you know it was infected?  00:49:16 - Can you tell us about the karate fight with a priest? 00:52:34 - What does kumite mean?  00:56:00 - How do you know what martial arts you’ll want to do?  00:57:30 - What’s the worst injury you’ve sustained from martial arts?  00:58:22 - Is kyokushin represented in the UFC at all?  01:00:15 - Do you break boards?  01:04:10 - Is there anything else about the pilgrimage you want to talk about?  01:09:38 - Can you make an adaptation of the oaths for U.S. thru-hiking?    SEGMENTS Trek Propaganda The Uncomfortable Truth about Thru-Hiking and Weight Loss by Katie Kommer Five Things I Learned Thru-Hiking as a Solo Female by Kaylin Mountain Lions and Thru-Hiking: Your Questions Answered by Kelly Floro   Triple Crown of States  Point / Counterpoint: Beer vs. Liquor  Patent Pending: Strap & Crap  Mail Bag  5 Star Review  Comment ______ to win a sticker (there are bonus points)! [divider] 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. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Andrew, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, and Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Cynthia Voth, Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Mark Snook, Peter Ellenberg, Thomas Fullmer, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Nathan Hankes.  Nathan is an army veteran, having served a tour in Iraq as a drone operator for the United States Army in the aftermath of 9/11.  Upon returning from his tour, Nathan turned to the Appalachian Trail to sort out the residual anger and anxiety he was dealing with as a result of his time serving overseas.  We go deep on Nathan's experience in Iraq, how that affected his political outlook, how the Appalachian Trail helped him heal after his tour, and learn more about the process of his writing, "Waking Up On the Appalachian Trail: A Story of War, Brotherhood, and the Pursuit of Truth", a memoir about his hike. We have a triple crown of tips to lighten your pack, a one minute gear review (including some gear for the pups), and tackle some hard hitting listener questions.   [divider] Listen   Download this episode. [divider] Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Minus33 discount code (listen to episode to get the code): 15% off your first purchase at minus33.com. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Nathan Hankes Get a signed copy of Nathan book: Waking Up on the Appalachian Trail: A Story of War, Brotherhood and the Pursuit of Truth on his website.  Use code: BPR for free shipping (so he can compete with Jeff Bezos). Half of the proceeds from the book go to helping four combat veterans write a book. Find him on social media @nbhankes 00:04:30 - QOTD: How has the trail healed you? 00:08:00 - Trail Correspondents will happen again next year! 00:08:40 - Intro to Nathan Hankes 00:08:56 - Can you give us a quick bio of yourself? 00:09:55 - Where in the midwest are you from? 00:10:32 - What was your interest in the military? 00:11:44 - What do you attribute the naivety you had (re: joining the military) to? 00:12:39 - How old were you when you joined the military? 00:13:47 - What is the ASVAB? 00:14:49 - How big are military drones? 00:15:47 - Which branch of the military did you serve in? 00:15:59 - What were you expecting when you were deployed and what was the reality of the situation? 00:18:12 - What happens if you change your mind while you are in the army? 00:19:53 - Was the sense of dissent among your peers the overarching feeling or was it just a few people? And was that natural skepticism or reality? 00:21:50 - Did any of it feel like the movie Jarhead?  00:23:50 - Did you ever think about leaving?  00:24:37 - Did you think you would thru-hike before you were in Iraq?  00:26:04 - Did you have any near-death experiences?  00:27:56 - How are you supposed to respond when you hear a mortar attack?  00:28:49 - Did that experience alter how you felt the rest of the time you were in Iraq? 00:30:19 - What are the mortars hitting? 00:32:11 - Knowing that you were defending Iraqi civilians you still felt the U.S. presence was wrong?  00:32:55 - Can you ask about the real reason you are there or do you have to keep it to yourself?  00:34:10 - How do you feel about the military now?  00:35:20 - Has your service altered your politics? 00:36:17 - What did the person you hiked with bring up (as far as politics)? 00:37:17 - Which book on the top 100 adventure stories did you like the most?  00:41:41 - What kind of things did you have to get permission from the pentagon for?  00:44:03 - Did you self-publish? 00:44:15 - How did you get endorsements (from people like Christopher Ryan)?  00:45:37 - Would you describe what you experienced as PTSD? 00:46:50 - Were you having trouble sleeping? 00:47:22 - Were there any downsides to going from the military to the trail? Was it weird going from one extreme to the other? 00:49:53 - What is the specific healing you were looking for in your AT experience?  00:52:35 - Did your anger ever manifest in unhealthy ways? 00:53:34 - Did the fear you came back with filter over to the trail at all? 00:55:09 - Did you keep in close contact with your platoon mates? Do you still? 00:57:09 - Were you hoping to maintain that sense of community on trail? 00:58:51 - When you are deployed are people around your same age? Or is it people in all different age groups like the trail? 01:00:16 - Can you compare your platoon mates and your tramily? 01:02:35 - Can you talk about why you liked hiking with Dylan? 01:04:14 - Are you playing with fire if you ask about the merits of war with someone who has served?  01:06:07 - How did your brother interact with Dylan (knowing you came from a conservative family)? 01:07:29 - What do you think helped your enlightenment on your AT journey?  01:09:50 - Can you talk more about your spiritual awakening?  01:13:40 - Is thru-hiking a good tool for veterans? Do you have any general advice for veterans listening?  01:16:27 - How would someone describe the differences in your personality post-Iraq vs. post-trail?  01:20:29 - Can you tell us about the dog sled training in Alaska?  01:23:00 - Do you stand on the back of a sled? 01:23:37 - How fast do you go? Does it feel like skiing? 01:25:28 - Did you ever see a grizzly?  01:27:47 - Where do we get the book? Nathan website.    SEGMENTS    The Thru-Hiker’s Guide to Tyvek by Jesse Metzger  A Thru-Hiker’s Guide to the AMC Hut System by Jesse Metzger Triple Crown of Tips To Lighten Your Pack  Ask Reddit: What’s something small that happens and ignites an uncontrollable rage in you?  Email your pet peeves to podcast@thetrek.co 1-Minute Gear Review  Patent Pending: Zoom Contacts Pupdate (Stoned Harper Pics)  Mini-Mail Bag / Insta Q’s  5-Star Reviews  Comment _____ to win a sticker! [divider] 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. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, DcNerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Backcountry.com, we are joined by Neville Harris.  Neville is the owner and head honcho at Woods Hole Hostel, regarded as one of the top hostels (if not the top hostel) along the entire Appalachian Trail.  Neville shares a bit about her meditation practice and the impact it's had on her life, she walks us through a typical day at Woods Hole Hostel, how COVID has impacted her business, how running the hostel played a role in her recent divorce, and much more.  Whether you've stayed at Woods Hole or not, we think you're really going to enjoy this chat. We also debate where to teleport 10 tons of jello to maximize destruction, do a triple crown of appetizers, and have a one minute gear review.    Backcountry discount code: Use code: Backpacker15 for 15% off your first purchase at backcountry.com/backpackerradio. Minus33 discount code (listen to episode to get the code): 15% off your first purchase at minus33.com. True Thru-Hiker Shirt & Mug [divider] Interview with Neville Harris of Woods Hole Hostel on the Appalachian Trail. Website Instagram 00:06:18: QOTD: if you could pick a day to be your birthday besides your actual birthday, what day would you pick?  00:10:12 - What is Woods Hole Hostel? How did you get into the hiking culture?  00:11:40 - Where is Woods Hole Hostel? 00:11:54 - Where is the closest town? 00:12:59 - Tell us about the intricacies of Woods Hole Hostel?  00:17:30 - Are you religious? 00:18:20 - How long are you meditating?  00:18:38 - Do you have a particular practice you follow? 00:19:45 - Can you give us an overview of your meditation approach? 00:21:20 - What are the benefits you see from meditation? 00:23:39 - Are you in communication with other trail angels in the area?  00:24:50 - Is meditation offered through Woods Hole? 00:25:30 - Do you lead a yoga class?  00:26:30 - Will you walk us through a day at Woods Hole Hostel? 00:28:11 - What’s on the Woods Hole menu usually? 00:33:00 - How do you can food? 00:34:47 - How did you feel taking in hikers during coronavirus?  00:41:53- How many people stay with you in a year?  00:44:40 - Can you talk about the animals at Woods Hole Hostel?  00:49:33 - How do you balance helping hikers and running a business?  00:51:43 - How was running the hostel with a partner vs. alone?  00:52:44 - What led you to choose between the hiking community and your husband?  00:55:16 - Can you talk about hikers leaving critiques about your husband?  00:57:09 - What about the hiker community do you love so much? 01:00:56 - How do you prevent burnout?  01:02:58 - How have you seen the hiking community change over the years?  01:05:16 - Do you think technology has had any effect?  01:07:17 - Do you take outside donations?  Woods Hole Website — Donation  SEGMENTSTrek Propaganda The Beer Drinker’s Guide: Best Breweries on the Colorado Trail by Kelly Floro  A Mountain Lion Follows Utah Trail Runner for Six Terrifying Minutes by Kelly Floro  Triple Crown of Appetizers Is buffalo chicken a common meat topping for nachos? Discuss. Point / Counterpoint: Stovetop vs. Oven Dad Wisdom from Zach: Cleaning a Cast Iron Skillet  Reddit Brain Buster One-Minute Gear Review  Chaunce: Weighted Vest Zach: Solar Charged Lantern/Charger  Mail Bag (Brought to you by Backcountry.com) 5-Star Review Pupdate! Comment _____ for a free sticker! [divider] 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. A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Jason Lawrence, Austen McDaniel, Thomas Fullner, Christopher Marshburn, S11N, Sawyer Products A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Brandon Spilker, Emily Brown, Jeffrey Miller, Mitchell, Zoe Jenkins, DcNerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and  Trail Correspondents on Instagram. Follow The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.