Advanced Wilderness Life Support (AWLS)

This podcast that inspires kids to trade screen time for green time—one book at a time. Each episode highlights engaging, adventure-filled books that spark curiosity about the natural world and encourage outdoor exploration. Whether it’s tales of forest hikes, backyard discoveries, or wilderness quests, we help parents, teachers, and young readers find stories that motivate real-world adventures. Let’s read, unplug, and reconnect with the wild.

In this episode, we look into the unsettling truth behind some of the most breathtaking wilderness lakes. Though they may appear crystal clear and untouched, many are harboring dangerous intestinal bacteria like E. coli and Entercocci. We explore how these pathogens end up in seemingly pristine waters, the risks they pose to hikers, and what can be done to detect, prevent, and treat waterborne illness.  This episode sheds light on the hidden microbiological dangers lurking beneath the surface of paradise.

In “Living After the Bite: Life with Alpha-Gal Syndrome,” we follow the personal journey of Sailor Brukard as she tnavigats the challenges of alpha-gal syndrome — a serious allergic condition triggered by a tick bite that causes a reaction to mammalian meat and products. From the shock of diagnosis to the daily realities of label-reading, restaurant stress, and lifestyle changes, this podcast explores how one life was turned upside down by an unexpected bite. Through honest conversations, expert insights, and real-life experiences, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of this rare allergy and what it means to live with it every single day.

You’re deep in the backcountry, on a multi-day backpacking trip, when the air thickens, the sky darkens, and smoke suddenly fills the air.  What started as a peaceful trek has turned into a race against time. In “Smoke on the Trail,” we listen to Dar Kreimer tell her harrowing story of being forced to evacuate as a wildfire rapidly approached. We’ll explore how quickly conditions can change, the signs to watch for, and what you need to know  and how to prepare and stay safe when wildfire smoke and flames threaten your path.

In this episode, Ajeyo De explores the evolving field of wilderness medicine and its critical role in addressing the unique healthcare needs of diverse populations around the world. He creates a framework for delivering equitable care in environments where traditional systems fall short.  Join us as we examine how wilderness medicine isn’t just for adventurers—it’s a global necessity and there's an importance in recognizing the global differences that can affect one's approach to medicine in the world.

Recent headlines report that British climbers reached the summit of Mount Everest in record time after using xenon gas as part of their pre-acclimatization strategy. But what is xenon, and does it truly enhance performance at altitude? We dive into the science behind this noble gas, its effects on the body, and whether it could be a game-changer—or just hype—for mountaineers pushing the limits in thin air. Doping with xenon is likely not the answer. 

In Trail Hydration: What to Drink and Why, we dive into the science and strategy behind staying properly hydrated during outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking, trail running, or spending long days in the backcountry, knowing what to drink—and when—can make all the difference in performance, safety, and recovery. We explore the pros and cons of water, sports drinks, electrolyte mixes, and natural options like coconut water. This episode helps you choose the best fluids for every type of outdoor effort. Stay safe, stay strong, and stay hydrated.

In this podcast, we unpack the hidden danger of wet snow avalanches—slow-moving but incredibly powerful slides that occur as spring temperatures rise. Learn how melting snow and rain transform stable slopes into deadly terrain, what science tells us about snowpack saturation, and why these avalanches are often underestimated. Whether you’re a backcountry skier, hiker, or mountain safety enthusiast, this episode will help you understand the risks, recognize the warning signs, and stay safe when the snow starts to thaw.

In this podcast we explore the hidden hazards of hiking through spring and summer snow. As the mountains begin to thaw, trails once buried in winter snow reveal a new set of challenges—soft snowfields, collapsing crusts, and the dreaded posthole. In this episode, we dive into what really happens beneath your boots during shoulder season hikes, why postholing can be more than just annoying, and how to stay safe when snow lingers long after winter is gone. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a casual day hiker, this is your guide to navigating the slush, avoiding injury, and making smart decisions in melting terrain.

Strap on your pack and join us for Health in Every Step where we talk about the health benefits and potential pitfalls of rucking in the wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned weight-walker or just curious about adding a weighted backpack to your fitness routine, we explore how rucking impacts your body, mind, and performance. We break down the science and strategies behind this simple but powerful form of outdoor exercise.