Backpacker Radio

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are rejoined by Nicole Antoinette.  We get an update on how her Colorado Trail hike went, including some very unexpected turns, we learn more about her entry into van life, and what advice she'd give to others looking to do the same, and chat about her new book which she is reluctant to call a book, How to Be Alone, an 800-mile hike on the Arizona Trail.  Perhaps it goes without saying, but for those who were fans of Nicole's first appearance on the show, this one will not disappoint.  We wrap the show with Chaunce butchering the pronunciation of Wisconsin town names, a quick education on the bark beetle problem facing the American West, an exciting announcement about a not-yet-fully-fledged Backpacker Radio sponsorship for one lucky 2022 thru-hiker, a triple crown of stereotypical dog names, and much more. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off of Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek10” here. Or

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are talking all things social media and how it relates to the world of backpacking.  This is a long and lively conversation and we dive into some highly charged subjects including gatekeeping, is Instagram influencing a good or bad for the thru-hiking culture, the addictive nature of social media, and much much more.     Backcountry.com discount code: Use code “backpackerradio” at backcountry.com/backpackerradio to get 15% off your first full price purchase Organifi discount code: Use code “backpacker” at organifi.com/backpacker for 20% off your purchase [divider] Social Media X Backpacking Panel  Zach’s Instagram Juliana’s Instagram Elise’s Instagram Time stamps & Questions 00:02:44 - QOTD: What was the first social media app you engaged with regularly?  00:09:19 - Wisconsin reminder: Delafield & Fitchburg events  00:10:27 - Introducing today’s panel: Social Media X Backpacking  00:12:24 - Zach’s take on Instagram being an ineffect

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Lauren and Henri de la Vega — a husband and wife southbounding the Continental Divide Trail to complete their triple crown. We take a journey down memory lane in both romance and trails and get an in-depth play-by-play on their CDT hike thus far. This chat paints an awesome picture of some of the alternates that are available, how to spot geothermal activity under the ground when in the backcountry of Yellowstone, and risk tolerances based on experiences from the PCT. It ends with the cutest Q&A, trek propaganda on a breakout of COVID in the AT portion of Maine, a heated triple crown of cereals, and more. Backcountry.com discount code: Use code “backpackerradio” at backcountry.com/backpackerradio to get 15% off your first full price purchase Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Vital Farms: Check out vitalfarms.com to learn more about where honest food is raised Enlightened E

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are bringing you another edition of the wildly popular Girl's Stuff episode.  Chaunce, Sauce, and guest panelist Lavendar share their experiences on a wide array of topics related to being a female backpacker, including safety tips when in the backcountry solo, hygiene regimens (or lack thereof), dealing with intense levels of horniness on trail, and much more.   We wrap the show with a pair of new segments- "things guys want to know about girls but are too afraid to ask" and "ambushing Zach with women's anatomy flashcards".  BRANWYN discount code: Use case “backpacker15” for 15% off at branwyn.com Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment’s Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code “thetrek10” here. [divider] Interview with Chaunce, Sauce, and guest panelist Lavender Chaunce Instagram  Sauce Instagram  Lavender Instagram

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek we are joined yet again by our old pal, Reptar.  Since we last chatted way back in 2018 (when we still had Kobe and Anthony Bourdain), Reptar has kept very busy- most notably being the co-star in a recent episode of Naked and Afraid.  We ask all the sophomoric questions you'd want to ask someone who earns fame through grit and genitalia, including how often his unmentionables rubbed against spiky things, what it's like to meet your survival partner in the nude, and mastering the proper angle to bend over when a camera is on you.  We also chat about finishing the PCT, his next documentary, and a new survivalist video game he's developing. We wrap the show with a few trail food ideas, a triple crown of dried fruit, and finding the precise line where peeing in water goes from cool to gross. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revela

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we have a lively conversation with the crew at Outdoor F.U.T.U.R.E., a diverse coalition working to ensure that nature’s transformational powers are accessible to all of our nation’s youth.  We chat about the organization's goal of a federal equity fund, why you can't plug your ears and demand that politics stay out of the outdoors, how inequality affects outdoor access, and much more.  We wrap the show with a bizarre story of a former professor being suspected of starting several fires in California, a gross or not gross about dogs eating human body fluids, and a very important correction to the record of my shoeless etiquette on airplanes. This episode was recorded on Arapahoe, Ute, Cheyenne and Shoshone land. [divider] Listen Download this episode. [divider] CONFIRM CURRENT: Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Q

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Scott Carney.  Scott's early career as an investigative journalist had him debunking fake gurus and charlatans.  When he was put on assignment by Playboy Magazine more than a decade ago to do the same with a Dutch daredevil- named Wim Hof- Scott assumed this would be more of the same.  What ensued was Scott being enthralled by Wim, his famous breathing and cold exposure techniques, as well as the circus that surrounded the Wim Hof experience.  We talk all about Scott's time with Wim, what it was like to summit Kilimanjaro with him in just 28 hours (when it typically takes closer to 5 days), how Wim is potentially becoming more of a charlatan today, and much more.  I found this conversation to be fascinating, I hope you do too. We wrap the show with Chaunce having an undesirable virus, a debate on the proper number of times to knot your shoelaces, a triple crown of toys from when we were young, and much more. Organifi: Use code "bac

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are bringing you another advice based show.  Today's episode is all about how to afford a thru-hike, which includes overall tips for how to budget, how much to budget, what items you can skimp on, what items you should splurge on, tools for automating the process, and much more.    We wrap the show with a triple crown of items that we love for less than $25, a wild story about a multi-day grizzly bear attack, and we discuss whether a calendar year triple crown is anti-thetical to the thru-hiking ethos.   QOTD: How long is the lifespan of a fly/mosquito? And why aren’t dead ones all over the ground?  BPR is doing a live podcast at Hop Haus in Fitchburg, Wisconsin from 6:00pm - 8:00pm on Friday, October 15. How to Afford a Thru-Hike ebook by Kelly Floro Tip #1 (Chaunce): Use apps that set aside money for you. Apps mentioned (not sponsored): Qapital Betterment  Acorns Wealthfront Tip #2 (Zach): Know what gear to splurge on. Specifically: Foot

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Rachael "Rabbit" Delano. Rabbit is a triple crowner, yogi, trail junkie, and currently in an ongoing battle with the Colorado Trail.  We learn about how the discovery of thru-hiking was a true fork in the road for Rachael, as the other path was leading toward a very dark place (much like our episode with Second Chance, for those who are triggered by talks of suicide, we encourage you to skip to about 15 minutes into the interview).  We talk about the highs and lows of each of Rabbit's triple crown hikes.  We learn which yoga poses she most recommends for hikers and backpackers.  And why the Colorado Trail keeps kicking her ass! We wrap the show with a discussion on why backcountry campfires might need to become a thing of the past, at least in the West, we do a triple crown of things that ruin a day hike, and introduce a new segment- Hiker Trash Board Confessionals.  But first. Organifi: Use code "backpacker" for 20% off at organif

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are trying new things!  In lieu of an interview, myself alongside Chaunce and Sauce (Elise), cover some of the most common beginner backpacking mistakes.  Because we here at Backpacker Radio can occasionally steer off-topic, we wanted to experiment with an episode dedicated to what the show's title implies.  Backpacking stuff.  These pointers run the full spectrum, from massive mistakes, to minor gaffes.  Regardless of where you are in your backpacking evolution, we think you'll walk away from this one with some very useful insight. But first.   Organifi: Use code "backpacker" for 20% off at organifi.com/backpacker. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Stock Torrid Jacket with code "trek10" here. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “gingersaregood” for 15% off at Gossamergear.com. [divider] Panel with Elise (Sauce), Chaunce, and Zach 00:06:39 - QOTD: Is the left ball lower and your main ch

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Second Chance Hiker. In 2018, Cory McDonald, aka Second Chance, was bored, depressed, and north of 400 pounds. After his doctor told him that he was headed for a heart attack if he didn't make some serious changes, Second Chance uprooted his life, and committed to hiking the PCT with the goal of losing 200 lb in the process. We learn all about the highs and lows Cory confronted during his trek, including how he got a girlfriend, and why he ultimately got off trail in very dramatic fashion. Second Chance shares what he's been up to since the PCT, including treks in Croatia and through the crocodile filled swamps of Florida. A very important warning to listeners, this episode does touch on some sensitive subject matter, especially conversations of panic attacks and suicide. If this may be triggering for you, we encourage you to skip to the end of the interview after Cory talks about his Florida Trail hike.  We wrap the show with a t

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Alison Young.  Alison has a world-class radio voice, is a super accomplished backpacker, with a long list of thru-hikes, a former professional flutist and classic music aficionado, and the host and producer of The Trek's newest podcast, Walking Distance.  We get a crash course in all things classical music, including how Lizzo ranks alongside some of the historical greats, we talk in depth about Alison's many treks, especially her international hikes (prepare to expand your bucket list), we talk about what it's like to do long distance backpacking trips into your 50s and how she manages with two fake hips, and much more.  This is a fun conversation that hits on some really unique subject matter, we think you'll really enjoy it. We wrap the show with the most bizarre triple crown we've ever done- I'll leave it at that, we have another gross / not gross, and we learn why redheads experience less pain, spoiler alert, it's not due to t

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by the show's third co-host at this point, the real hiking viking.  We do a deep dive on every inch of Jabba's recent hike of the Hayduke, including the challenges of long water carries, regular exposure to 100-plus degree days, navigating the route, and some truly epic stories, including a trail magic rafting trip through the Grand Canyon.  Whether you want to learn about the Hayduke or are simply craving some more Jabba time, this one will not disappoint. We wrap the show with a triple crown of things that ruin your day, Chaunce explains why you can't get a vaccine until after you've done your taxes, and we get some more horse facts, chicken edition. Good To-Go: Use code "TREK25" to save 25% off your order here.  OnX deal: This month, get a 1 year membership for $10 with all proceeds going to Leave No Trace. Learn more at onxmaps.com/greatoutdors. Enlightened Equipment: Save 10% off off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Qu

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by recurring guest, Steph Lotus aka Weezer, and her good pal, Dirty Avocado, as the duo recently wrapped a thru-hike of the Arizona Trail. This one is the mid-point between a trail overview and first person narrative of their journey, including some mild tragedy, comedy, and romance. We wrap the show with a triple crown of desert things, we tease the new Trail Correspondents season, and we are blessed with a bison poop story. Advertise on Backpacker Radio

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Gossamer Gear founder Glen Van Peski.  We learn all about the origins of Gossamer Gear, including how the company would not be in existence today without the founder of Whole Foods.  We learn about some of Glen's proudest gear innovations, including the crotch pot.  We walk about how he's able to manage a three pound base weight, future gear innovations in the world of backpacking, and much more. We wrap the show with a triple crown of Leonardo DiCaprio movies, Jabba gives us an impromptu lesson on scrotums from the Hayduke, and we bring back one-minute gear reviews. Check out Walking Distance wherever you listen to podcasts. OnX discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Picky Bars discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 20% off $25 Picky Bars. Goodr discount code: Use code “backpacker15” to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15. Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACK

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by my good bud, Nicole Antoinette.  Nicole is a thru-hiker, entrepreneur, podcast host, and all around magnetic personality.  We talk about overcoming imposture syndrome in the world of backpacking, why the stereotypical thru-hiking style of big miles, ramen, and cramped motel rooms isn't a one-size-fits-all approach, accepting failure, sobriety, and much more.  This is a lively conversation; you will enjoy it. We wrap the show a triple crown of kitchen gadgets, we officially unveil the destination for our 2021 Backpacker Radio Road Trip, and someone gets poop in their hair. OnX discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Picky Bars discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" for 20% off $25 Picky Bars. Goodr discount code: Use code “backpacker15” to save 15% on your first order at goodr.com/backpacker15. Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to save 25% at reelpaper.com Interview with Nicole

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by legendary Appalachian Trail trail angel, Miss Janet.  We learn about how cute boys was her gateway back to the trail in the 70s, the history of how people learned about and communicated around the trail, and why she's dedicated so much of her life to helping AT hikers.  We also touch on some hot button issues surrounding the trail, including when trail magic crosses the line, the impact of partying on the trail, and what she sees as a solution to the abundance of trash in some of the more popular areas. We wrap the show with a triple crown of bad farts, Chaunce and I answer some listener questions, and who do you think you are? I am!   OnX discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com Reel toilet paper discount code: Use code "BACKPACKER" to save 25% at reelpaper.com Picky Bars discount code: Use code "BACK

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek, we are joined by Ben Crawford of the Crawford Family.  In 2018, Ben Crawford, along with his wife Kami, and their six kids, ages between two and sixteen years old, thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail.  We learn all about the unique challenges of this undertaking, including how to keep kids spirits high when hiking in snow for over a month, what their gear system looked like, and how they handled a very mixed reception from the online hiking community.  This conversation also takes some wlid turns including how Ben and Kami were excommunicated from their Christian Missionary group, how he hit the jackpot as a blackjack card counter, and why he doesn't school his kids (either in the traditional sense or with homeschooling).   We wrap the show by announcing the winners of our big episode 100 giveaway, we have a triple crown of villains, and we get some horse facts, llama edition. OnX discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.c

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Dr. Freeborn Mondello. Freeborn, who is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, explodes our brains with some non-conventional advice for hikers, backpackers, and really any endurance athlete. This includes why stretching might be a waste of time, the importance of heavy weight resistance training, and why the traditional 3 sets of 10 reps is going to be counterproductive to your goals- and yes those last two points are not contradictory. Whether you're training for a hike or simply want to maintain good health, you'll find this conversation fascinating- we sure did. We wrap the show with a triple crown of days of the week, a new gross or not gross, and some good innovating pee pants for people with vaginas.   OnX Backcountry discount code: Use code: "Backpackerradio20" for 20% off at onxmaps.com. Greenbelly discount code: Use code: "TREK2021" to save 10% sitewide at greenbelly.co Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code "POOPSTORY" to save

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by OnX Backcountry, we are joined by Clara "Redfeather" Hughes.  Clara, in no uncertain terms, is a bonafide superstar.  In addition to a multitude of thru-hikes under her belt, Clara is a world-class speed skater and cyclist, being the only athlete in history to win multiple medals at both the summer and winter Olympic Games.  Let that sink in for a second.  We go deep on all the things you'd want to ask an Olympic superstar, including what her training regimen looks like, what it feels like to win a gold medal, and how much of a drunken orgy the Olympic village really is.  We also learn how her backpacking endeavors played a role in her Olympic career and why she attributes a portion of her success to her trekking.  We do a triple crown of Olympic sports (fittingly enough), how a professional tennis player stole our idea to sell our body parts in a non-prostitution sorta way (not that there's anything wrong with that), and a content