Backpacker Radio

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we're joined by Tara Dower, the new holder of overall Fastest Known Time on the Appalachian Trail. Tara gives us the low down on every aspect of her recent record-breaking trek, including how she fell wildly behind pace after the first two states, her nutrition, her sleep habits (or lack thereof), how vital her crew was in her success, the criticism she's faced for "hiking too fast", running a 100-mile race just a few weeks prior to the attempt, and much more. Tara also goes into more depth on her backpacking and FKT background and we subject her to a pair of brutally awkward fornicate, marry, kill questions. Fun times all around.   We wrap the show with our triple crown of guilty pleasure songs, a stupid thing of the week (Zach hurts himself again), and the most unrealistic thing we thought we could be when we were kids.

Raise $10,000 and the Real Hiking Viking Will Do the Unthinkable…

Topo Athletic: Use code “THETREK15” at topoathletic.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

[divider]

Interview with Tara “Candy Mama” Dower

• Tara's Instagram
• Tara's Website
• Tara's Youtube

Time stamps & Questions

00:05:55 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, join us in Denver on December 7th and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:07:55 - Introducing Tara

00:09:29 - Are you still recovering?

00:10:45 - What mantras did you have?

00:13:00 - What was your origin story in the outdoors?

00:17:12 - When did you decide to pursue the Mountains to Sea Trail FKT?

00:19:00 - Did you impress yourself at that moment?

00:21:30 - Tell us about getting off the AT because of anxiety

00:23:05 - How do you manage anxiety during an FKT attempt?

00:24:25 - Were you tough growing up?

00:26:45 - What inspired you to want to continue pursuing FKTs?

00:29:55 - Tell us about the John Muir Trail

00:31:20 - What part of running do you dislike the most?

00:32:30 - Tell us about the Benton MacKaye Trail FKT

00:34:40 - Tell us about the Colorado Trail FKT

00:36:20 - Discussion about support classifications

00:40:25 - How do you deal with critics?

00:44:30 - How did the Colorado Trail change your outlook on future FKTs?

00:46:00 - When did you decide to go after the AT FKT?

00:48:38 - Did you initially plan to beat the overall record?

00:50:08 - Were you intimidated by others who tried and failed to beat the record?

00:51:30 - Did you notice a transition in social media as you were running?

00:55:18 - Why did your anxiety influence which direction you went?

00:57:20 - How long before you started was the Hard Rock?

01:00:00 - What was it like going through Mahoosuc Notch at FKT pace?

01:01:44 - Tell us about being behind pace at first

01:05:27 - How did your crew chief motivate you?

01:07:03 - Did you ever disagree about decisions?

01:08:00 - How much of a trail was solo or with a pacer?

01:09:50 - What was your adjustment like after the FKT?

01:12:45 - How has your nutrition changed over the years?

01:18:55 - Did you have any near injuries?

01:19:40 - Can you pinpoint a low moment?

01:23:30 - Did you hallucinate?

01:26:45 - Tell us about your average mileage and sleep during the FKT

01:30:40 - Is Rascal’s position a paid position?

01:31:34 - Did you have any paid sponsorship during this run?

01:32:26 - When did you know you had it?

01:35:02 - Did you conceptualize how big of a deal it was going to be?

01:36:35 - Tell us about raising money for Girls on the Run

01:38:20 - Fuck Marry Kill: thru-hiking, FKTs, ultraracing

01:39:31 - Fuck Marry Kill: Outside Magazine, Washington Post, The Trek

01:40:34 - Kumo Question: What’s something you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t had the courage to do yet?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Tara Dower Sets Overall Fastest Known Time on Appalachian Trail by Kelly Floro

QOTD:  What is the most unrealistic thing you thought you could be when you were a kid?

Stupid Thing of the Week

Triple Crown of guilty pleasure songs

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok. 

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Old Man Murph’s Coffee Roasters, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Jabba and Lt Cookoo for another BPR classic. This one, in expected fashion, is all over the map. We start by getting a brief update of what Cookoo has been up to since his last appearance on the show followed by a more detailed update from Jabba, primarily about a once-in-a-lifetime bikepacking trip through Iceland, a trip that nearly robbed his soul in the best and worst way possible. We then dive into a QA format, including the top advice they'd give to themselves before their first backpacking trip, their favorite treks that take one month or less, the best stories from the trails they've hiked together, the inevitable point at which they butt heads and much more.

The boys stick around for segments, which is also predictably weird. We provide our wiping techniques in alarming detail, the triple crown of things a dentist can say but not a gynecologist, and Viking gives Chaunce wedding advice. 

Topo Athletic: Use code “THETREK15” at topoathletic.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

Duer: Get 20% off your first purchase at shopduer.com/backpacker.

[divider]

Interview with Jabba & Lt. Cookoo Bird

• Jabba's Instagram
• Cookoo's Instagram
• Backpacker Radio #194 | Bruce “Lt. Cookoo Bird” Lynn on the Sierra High Route, Wind River High Route, Hayduke, Biking Across the Country, and More

Time stamps & Questions

00:04:45 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, join us in Denver on December 7th and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:07:47 - Introducing Jabba & Lt. Cookoo Bird

00:09:30 - Is Jabba still sober?

00:11:35 - Zach & Jabba’s fantasy football punishments

00:14:50 - What adventures has Cookoo done in 2024?

00:18:50 - Cookoo’s self-arresting technique

00:20:15 - Cuckoo on the Teton Crest Trail

00:21:54 - Cookoo’s mountaineering

00:23:19 - What adventures has Jabba done in 2024?

00:28:20 - Why don’t comfier bike seats exist?

00:33:30 - Jabba hiking the other half of the CDT

00:39:01 - Jabba’s Ragbrai trip

00:47:20 - Jabba’s Iceland trip introduction

00:50:30 - Iceland route description

00:52:54 - Jabba’s (lack of) trip preparation

00:59:00 - How did you get your bike to Iceland?

01:00:00 - Iceland’s singletrack trail difficulty

01:04:00 - Jabba’s mindset while biking

01:06:15 - End of Day 1

01:08:55 - Day 2

01:12:38 - How much were you walking your bike versus riding your bike?

01:16:07 - Is it Type 2 fun?

01:19:45 - End of Day 2

01:24:20 - Discussion about hiking in sand

01:31:05 - Going back to get the AirPods

01:34:35 - Day 3

01:42:49 - What would you do differently if you did this trip again?

01:45:00 - Getting to the end location of Day 3

01:49:35 - Day 5

01:58:24 - End of Day 5

02:02:50 - Have you been in contact with Chris since the trip?

02:04:30 - What’s the best one month or shorter hike you’ve ever done?

02:13:31 - If you could go back in time to your first thru-hike, what would you do differently?

02:16:46 - How do you figure out footwear faster?

02:22:16 - What is your best story about the other story?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: “I Just Had To Skip So Many Miles”: How 2024 PCT Thru-Hikers Are Adapting to Fires and Trail Closures by James Townsend

QOTD:  Does your butt stay on the toilet seat when you wipe?

Triple Crown of things a dentist can say, but not a gynecologist

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok. 

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Old Man Murph’s Coffee Roasters, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bells, Bonnie Ackerman, Chris Pyle, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to by LMNT, we are breaking down our recent hike of the Northville Placid Trail. Chaunce, Elise, and yours truly recently set out south from Lake Placid to trek as much of the trail as we could in a 5-day period. Spoiler alert- I was forced off trail first, Chaunce did the full thing, Elise split the difference between the two of us.

We give you a day by day breakdown of our trek, including a not so fun first day, a family fight on day two featuring a midday meltdown, our favorite moments from the trail (like an epic campsite off Long Lake) and much more. We also give you the rough and dirty on the NPT, including the distance, elevation gain, resupply options, terrain, water, etc yatta yatta.

We wrap the show with the triple crown of John Travolta movies, whether we'd prefer the perfect stick or the perfect rock, and a one-minute gear review!

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

Hikerkind: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at hikerkind.com.

[divider]

Panel with Zach, Chaunce, and Elise

• Chaunce's Instagram
• Badger's Instagram
• Elise's Instagram

Time stamps & Questions

00:05:00 - Reminders: Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content, join us in Denver on December 7th and apply to be a 2025 blogger!

00:09:40 - Introducing the NPT Panel

00:11:30 - Northville Placid Trail basics

00:13:30 - Hiking direction

00:15:05 - Day 1 of hiking

00:27:00 - Night 1

00:32:55 - Bugs, darkness, and mileage

00:42:30 - Day 2

00:47:45 - The family fight

00:58:00 - Night 2

01:02:15 - Day 3

01:06:40 - Zach’s incident

01:11:05 - Odds games

01:22:02 - Zach’s second incident

01:23:40 - Getting off trail

01:27:05 - Night 3

01:32:13 - Day 4

01:51:25 - Zach’s day 4

01:54:00 - Day 5

01:59:55 - Elise’s weird encounters

02:08:20 - Zach’s day 5

02:10:45 - Stay Salty: If you could turn any everyday activity into an Olympic sport, what would you win gold in?

Segments

QOTD: Would you rather find the perfect stick or the perfect rock?

Triple Crown of John Travolta Movies

One Minute Gear Reviews

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok. 

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by James Appleton. James is a walking encyclopedia on all things Adirondacks, hosting a podcast dedicated to the park, having authored a book about its lore, and he serves as a hiking guide throughout the region. James gives us the rundown on these rugged 46ers, including superlatives like his favorite, the most underrated, the most overrated, and the best for beginners. He also provides a primer on the Northville-Placid Trail, shares the best and worst times to experience the park, and offers an overview of the Lake Placid 9’er, a challenge he created. James also gives us the lowdown of how awkward it is to be on a film set during a sex scene. 

We wrap up the show with the news of Hurricane Helene's historic destruction throughout the southern Appalachias, and how people can contribute to the relief and recovery efforts, the triple crown of commercials (including how our editor's dad is the commercial GOAT), whether you'd rather find cockroaches or a body in your attic, and the full rundown of going to Buffalo for the MNF Bills game.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

Hikerkind: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at hikerkind.com.

Duer: Get 20% off your first purchase at shopduer.com/backpacker.

[divider]

Interview with James Appleton

• James' Instagram
• 46 Outdoors Co Website
• Seek To Do More Website

Time stamps & Questions

00:06:15 - Reminders: Join us in Denver on December 7th! Apply to be a 2025 blogger and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:12:05 - Introducing James

00:12:53 - What was your introduction to the outdoors?

00:15:27 - What are the hot spots in Lake Placid?

00:18:05 - Tell us about the Blue Line Bakery

00:20:00 - Tell us about working in the film industry

00:23:00 - What’s the coolest movie you’ve worked on?

00:24:30 - Tell us about working on a sex scene

00:27:25 - Is it difficult to hike peaks with a lot of muscle on your upper body?

00:31:30 - Discussion about Adirondack hiking culture

00:36:20 - What are the most common 46ers to start off with?

00:38:35 - Do you need map and compass skills?

00:40:31 - Tell us about the Lake Placid 9er

00:42:20 - What led you into losing weight and how did it work for you?

00:44:57 - What was your guilty pleasure snack?

00:46:30 - Was it hard to workout while cutting carbs out?

00:48:27 - What are the highlights of the Northville Placid Trail?

00:53:00 - Discussion about James’ podcast

00:54:42 - What equipment do you bring onto the trail for recording audio?

00:56:00 - Do you have free time?

00:59:41 - What goes into becoming a guide?

01:02:03 - What are your favorite peaks to hike?

01:04:00 - Which peaks do people put off hiking?

01:05:00 - What’s the best peak for beginners?

01:06:15 - What are some underrated mountains that are not 46ers?

01:07:00 - What peak have you done the most?

01:08:00 - What’s the wet season in the Adirondacks?

01:09:40 - What are the shelters like on the NPT?

01:12:20 - When should people visit the Adirondacks if they had any week of the year?

01:13:35 - When are hikers normally done with the NPT by?

01:16:00 - Discussion about bugs

01:18:06 - Do you have plans to hike in other areas?

01:21:15 - Tell us about your upcoming book

01:22:40 - Can you give us a quick campfire story?

01:26:31 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your outdoors hot take?

01:28:00 - Where can people keep up with you?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Want To Help AT Communities Recover From Hurricane Helene? Here’s How by Kelly Floro

QOTD: Which would you rather find living in your attic, 1000 roaches or a person?

Triple Crown of commercials

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

Road Trip Update

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/ and his coffee.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok. 

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Jen Jacobsson-Melo & Livio Melo, co-founders of Allmansright, an ultralight gear company located in the Bronx. We learn all about their humble beginnings, including when Allmansright's gear was made in the corner of their 500-square-foot apartment, how a serendipitous run in with a fellow backpacker in Colorado's backcountry led to their first pre-order, how they've scaled up their operation, what it's like running a gear shop in the Bronx, where they draw inspiration for their designs, other small cottage brands doing interesting and good work from around the world, and much more. 

We wrap the show with what the contents of our body and blood would be, the triple crown of the worst places to have raging diarrhea, and some teasers from our Northville Placid Trail Hike.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

Hikerkind: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at hikerkind.com.

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

[divider]

Interview with Livio & Jen

• allmansright Instagram
• allmansright Website
• REI Founders Story

Time stamps & Questions

00:04:55 - Reminders: Join us in Denver on December 7th! Apply to be a 2025 blogger and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:07:55 - Introducing Jen & Livio

00:08:45 - What is allemansrätten?

00:10:50 - Tell us about moving to the US from the Dominican Republic

00:12:32 - What is the outdoor culture like in the Dominican Republic?

00:14:20 - Do you prefer being in the Dominican Republic or the US?

00:18:55 - What was the journey to you starting to make your own gear?

00:22:20 - How did you know how to make items?

00:24:00 - Tell us about your trip to Colorado

00:25:50 - How did you make gear in your 500 sq foot apartment?

00:30:30 - How do you balance gear orders with regular life?

00:31:35 - Tell us about going to design school

00:35:00 - What other gear companies serve as inspiration for you?

00:41:00 - What piece of gear are you most proud of?

00:43:40 - Do you have any plans to make a larger version of the pack?

00:45:00 - Discussion about the Krafs Stuff Sack

00:49:00 - Do you have any plans to break into the shelter space?

00:50:00 - Tell us about your shop in the Bronx

00:51:30 - Tell us about the hiker community in NYC

00:53:30 - What are some of the cool hiking opportunities near New York City?

00:57:29 - Have you experimented with apparel at all?

00:59:40 - Are there any materials you’re excited about?

01:01:00 - Discussion about creating new products

01:03:52 - What is your goal around sustainability?

01:04:35 - Discussion about packs

01:06:17 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your outdoors hot take?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: 6 Gas Station Resupply Recipes for Thru-Hikers by Kimberly Fetherston

QOTD: What is your body and blood?

Triple Crown of the worst places to have uncontrollable diarrhea

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok. 

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Ian Mangiardi aka "Dusty". For those of you who've read Appalachian Trials, you're already familiar with Ian’s name, as he served as my pre AT thru-hike guru and therapist. Ian gives us a full rundown on his triple crown treks, including being dumped on two of the three hikes, how he and Andy Laub (former guest) formed an instant bromance on the first week of the AT, the filming of As It Happens, their PCT documentary with more than a million on YouTube, and some wild excursions in Mongolia and Bhutan. 

We wrap the show with whether bringing terminal food onto the plane makes you a sociopath, the triple crown of New York things, and you can now officially get your tickets for our Denver Live Podcast with Kyle Hates Hiking and Holiday Hiker Meetup Extravaganza!

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

[divider]

Interview with Ian Mangiardi

• Ian's Website
• Ian's Instagram
• As It Happens

Time stamps & Questions

00:04:45 - Reminders: Join us in Denver on December 7th! Apply to be a 2025 blogger and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:07:10 - Introducing Ian

00:08:07 - How do Zach and Ian know each other?

00:12:13 - How did Ian and Andy meet?

00:14:12 - Tell us about your breakup

00:16:22 - What was your outdoors experience prior to the AT?

00:19:20 - How did you learn what gear you needed?

00:20:50 - Tell us about your second on-trail breakup

00:26:30 - Did you end the hike stronger than you started?

00:29:20 - Tell us about your friend fight

00:37:00 - Have you ever had a tramily other than Andy?

00:38:26 - How did you and Andy become friends?

00:40:30 - Was it an especially wet year on the AT?

00:43:45 - What fun stories do you have from the AT?

00:50:00 - Ian’s surprise trail magic

00:55:00 - Tell us about going from the AT to the PCT

00:57:01 - Chaunce’s As It Happens story

00:59:45 - Did you both film?

01:00:25 - How did you split up the workload?

01:02:17 - Tell us about getting caught in a snowstorm

01:04:20 - Tell us about kicking a rock off a cliff

01:06:00 - How did you decide what to cut out of the film?

01:09:14 - Did you hike the AT in spandex shorts?

01:10:45 - Do you still use a sleeping bag liner?

01:14:45 - Do you feel strongly about any other nontraditional gear items?

01:17:00 - Tell us about the New Explorers Award

01:20:45 - Tell us about the Kings Challenge in Bhutan

01:25:40 - What is the Explorers Club?

01:27:45 - What has changed in the world of thru-hiking?

01:30:26 - Where can people keep up with you?

01:32:28 - What’s your best poop story?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Everything You Need To Know To Plan an International Thru-Hike by Kelly Floro

QOTD:  Is it messed up to bring airport terminal food onto the plane with the intent of eating it once you’re in your seat?

Triple Crown of New York things

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok. 

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by thru-hiker, gear maker, YouTuber, musician, and dare I say philosopher, John Z. John Z has hiked it all, including the triple crown trails, the Arizona Trail, Colorado Trail- in 10 days, setting the unsupported FKT on the way, which was a side trip during his PCT thru-hike- the Great Divide Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, the Death Valley Loop, amongst others. He gives us an overview of these trips, the inspiration behind starting Pa'Lante Packs and now Meadow Physics Gear, why he doesn't hike with a water filter or satellite communicator, his tendency toward being a "water princess," the time he barked at a cow and the cow fought back, his run-ins with an angry black bear and a mountain lion, and much more.

We wrap the show by unveiling our adult film star names, the triple crown of campaign promises 2.0, and Chuance leaves us a mailbag.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

PATH Projects: Use code “THETREK10”  for 10% off at pathprojects.com/thetrek.

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

[divider]

Interview with John Z

• Meadow Physics
• John's Youtube
• John's Instagram

Time stamps & Questions

00:02:40 - Reminders: Join us for a live show in Denver on December 7! Support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:05:18 - Introducing John Z

00:06:22 - What’s your background in the outdoors?

00:08:15 - If you had to pick only bikepacking or backpacking forever, which would it be?

00:09:50 - What led you to long distance backpacking?

00:11:29 - Did you start off ultralight?

00:14:15 - How did you transition from bikepacking?

00:16:04 - What was your biggest gear mistake early on?

00:18:20 - Tell us about making gear

00:21:54 - What were the vibes like in the desert on the PCT?

00:23:35 - How do you get trail beta?

00:25:07 - In what area do you think there’s the most room for improvement in gear?

00:27:03 - Tell us about the shelter you designed

00:30:00 - Tell us about your recent engagement

00:34:45 - How do you juggle a relationship with hiking?

00:36:35 - What’s the longest food carry you’ve done?

00:38:40 - Aside from light gear, what goes into long mileage days?

00:40:20 - What kind of food do you pack?

00:44:15 - Discussion about the Colorado Trail FKT

00:47:10 - What other FKTs have you attempted?

00:49:48 - Tell us the cow story

00:52:55 - Tell us the bear story

00:54:00 - Tell us the mountain lion story

00:56:40 - Tell us about your Alaska trip

00:58:50 - Why don’t you like to use a water filter?

01:00:30 - Discussion about tea

01:02:10 - What’s something you’ve gone on a deep dive on recently?

01:04:20 - What podcasts do you listen to while hiking?

01:06:04 - What don’t you like about the AT?

01:08:20 - What’s in your pack for a thru-hike?

01:11:35 - What do you do for bug protection?

01:14:00 - How do you pack your pack?

01:17:09 - Do you ever use a pack with a frame system?

01:17:55 - Tell us about the Death Valley Loop

01:20:20 - Are you more drawn to trails or routes?

01:21:20 - Do you think about your legacy?

01:22:17 - Is there any competition in route making?

01:23:00 - Tell us about the Great Divide Trail

01:25:00 - What trails do you keep repeating?

01:27:00 - Are you still making Youtube videos?

01:30:24 - What prompted you to take your channel down?

01:31:36 - What fabrics are you excited about right now?

01:33:55 - What’s next for you?

Segments

Trek Propaganda

• 2024 Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers: Submit Your Completion Photos
• 272 Miles in Less Than 4 Days: William Peterson Sets New Long Trail FKT by Kimberly Fetherston

QOTD:  If you were an adult film star, what would your stage name be?

Triple Crown of campaign promises 2.0

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok. 

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek and brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are doing a thorough breakdown of the differences and similarities between the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail. We are joined by Trek Bloggers, Abby Evans, aka “Shitwater Fireball: Queer of the Salamanders" and Hannah “Spring” Goodman, who are both 2024 PCT thru-hikers, and had previously thru-hiked the AT as well. We talk about the differences in overall difficulty, including weather, terrain, logistics, and gear, the difference in trail cultures, the various highs and lows, and ultimately, each person gives which of the two trails they prefer overall. The results may surprise you.

We wrap the show with some news of a positive update on the new Lyme disease vaccine, who we would trade bodies with and what we would do first, the triple crown of streaming services, and a reader prompts Chaunce into giving us a more detailed breakdown about the time she pooped into a mountain house bag in her tent.

Topo Athletic: Use code “THETREK15” for 15% of topoathletic.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

Duer: Get 20% off at shopduer.com/backpacker.

[divider]

Panel with Abby Evans aka “Shitwater Fireball” and Hannah “Spring” Goodman

• Spring's Instagram
• Shitwater's Instagram

Time stamps & Questions

00:05:30 - Reminders: Come to our Brooklyn meetup TODAY (September 16)! And support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and get your tickets for our live Denver show on December 7!

00:07:50 - Introducing Shitwater & Spring

00:09:03 - Spring, how did you get into the outdoors?

00:10:20 - Shitwater, how did you get into the outdoors?

00:12:57 - What are your trail name origin stories?

00:16:00 - What backpacking trips did you do before the AT?

00:17:08 - How has your PCT experience been?

00:18:27 - Zach & Chaunce’s AT/PCT experience

00:19:10 - AT vs. PCT: Overall difficulty

00:25:00 - Discussion about fire logistics and impacts

00:28:16 - Zach & Chaunce’s difficulty comparison between the trails

00:32:30 - Discussion about hike mindset between the AT and PCT

00:47:22 - What was the hardest part of skipping miles on the PCT?

01:01:00 - AT vs. PCT: Social experience

01:11:35 - Do you think being on trail was a good place to process the breakup?

01:18:00 - Chaunce’s trail social experiences

01:33:25 - AT vs. PCT: Gear differences

01:50:20 - How much rain did you experience on the PCT?

01:54:40 - AT vs. PCT: Highs and lows

02:14:20 - If you could only pick on trail for the rest of your life, which would you pick?

02:17:30 - Where can we keep up with you?

Segments

Rapid Fire Interviews

• James “Almost Famous” Townsend
• Rachael “Pack Rat” Davis
• Katherine “Willy” Baals
• Sean Durkin aka TreeBeard

Trek Propaganda: Lyme Disease Vaccine Passes Stage Three Trials by Kimberly Featherston

QOTD: If you could trade bodies with someone for a day who would be and what would you do first?

Triple Crown of streaming services

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok. 

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Ben Love, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Griffin Haywood, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Elina Osborne. Elina is a thru-hiker, filmmaker, adventurer, and storyteller. Four years ago, Elina released a 15-minute documentary about her PCT thru-hike, titled "It Is The People", which has since accumulated nearly three-quarters of a million views on YouTube. We learn all about Elina's entry into film and storytelling, her process, equipment, and advice she has for future documentarians. She also gives us a preview of a new film currently in the works about her hike of The Hayduke alongside a past guest of Backpacker Radio.

We wrap the show with some rapid fire conversations with Trek bloggers we met at PCT Trail Days, the Triple Crown of things we document during a thru-hike, and the maximum number of times we can conceivably enjoy getting dressed up over the course of a year, and much more.

Topo Athletic: Use code “THETREK15” for 15% of topoathletic.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com. 

[divider]

Interview with Elina Osborne

• Elina's Website
• Elina's Instagram

Time stamps & Questions

00:04:30 - Reminders: Join us in Brooklyn on September 16 and support us on Patreon for exclusive bonus content!

00:06:41 - Introducing Elina

00:08:30 - What’s your trail name story?

00:09:28 - What was your entry into the outdoors?

00:11:27 - What is the hiking and backpacking culture like in New Zealand?

00:15:40 - How did you get into storytelling?

00:18:35 - How do you realize you’re in a cult?

00:21:22 - Was there backlash when you left?

00:23:19 - How did your first documentary inform your future hiking projects?

00:25:15 - How would you describe It Is The People?

00:27:19 - What was your PCT hike like socially?

00:31:00 - Discussion about offiating weddings

00:33:40 - Did you go into the hike planning to focus on people in your documentary?

00:37:02 - Did you intend to make it a series?

00:38:56 - Is it hard to get the camera out when you’re having a fun moment on trail?

00:40:15 - How do you find a balance between filming a hike and hiking in order to film?

00:42:23 - How do you plan who needs to film what?

00:43:25 - Do you look back at the PCT film and see things you would want to change?

00:45:17 - Do you still use the same approach for current film projects?

00:48:44 - Tell us about working for the New Zealand police department

00:52:07 - What was your wildest day on the job?

00:54:30 - Is it challenging to collaborate with other filmmakers while hiking?

00:57:10 - Did you butt heads on the Hayduke?

01:02:30 - Do you have an idea of where the Hayduke documentary will land?

01:05:34 - How do you make editing work on a team project?

01:10:30 - What are your next hiking adventures?

01:15:40 - What is your process for deciding what the story will be?

01:18:10 - Are there any storytellers you’re inspired by right now?

01:21:27 - Do you have advice for others who want to document their hiking experience?

01:23:10 - Who is your primary audience?

01:24:01 - Kumo Question: What is your dream vacation destination?

01:27:50 - What is the highlights tour of New Zealand?

01:32:00 - Where can people go to keep up with you?

Segments

Rapid Fire Interviews

• Angie aka “The Little Mermaid”
• Elizabeth aka “Bags Bunny”
• Sakari aka “Paw Patrol”
• Christopher Smiley

Triple Crown of the things you document on a long trail

QOTD:  What’s the maximum number of times in the year you can enjoy getting dressed up?

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok. 

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Following Water Ohio, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Rebecca Brave, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns, and Griffin Haywood

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Matthew Kesterson, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.

In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Cam Bostock. With more than 600K Followers, Cam is a bonafide Instagram hiking celebrity. Cam teaches us all about his home, the great country of Australia, including his adventures on the Bibbulmun Track and Munda Biddi Trail, in addition to how often someone needs to fistfight a kangaroo, the frequency of deadly snake encounters, and other stereotypically dumb American questions. We also learn all about Cam's PCT trek, including all that goes into creating a polished Instagram Reel for every day of his hike, his favorite moments from the trail, and the biggest cultural differences between hiking in the US and Australia.

We wrap the show with an overview of our time at PCT Trail Days, hint: we were dangerously close to Thunder Island Brewing, if Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are odd or even, and the triple crown of meat.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “SNUGGLEBUG” for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com. 

Katabatic Gear: Use code “BPR15” for 15% off at katabaticgear.com.

Zoleo: Use code “BACKPACKERRADIO” for free device activation at zoleo.com. 

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.

[divider]

Interview with Cam Bostock

• Cam's Instagram
• Cam's Youtube

Time stamps & Questions

00:02:30 - PCT Days Recap

00:24:40 - Reminders: Join us in Brooklyn on September 16 and support us on Patreon for bonus content!

00:28:00 - Introducing Cam

00:30:43 - Do you have a trail name?

00:31:45 - What was your intro into long distance backpacking?

00:32:23 - What are the basics of the Bibbulmun Track?

00:34:00 - Discussion about Australian wildlife

00:40:04 - What’s the ideal season for the Bibbulmun Track?

00:42:15 - How popular is the Bibbulmun Track?

00:42:53 - How does the culture of long distance hiking in Australia compare to the US?

00:45:20 - Discussion about vegemite

00:46:30 - What other cultural differences have you noticed in the US?

00:47:35 - How did you choose the PCT?

00:48:16 - Tell us about the Munda Biddi Trail

00:50:28 - What other Australian trails are you interested in?

00:53:10 - Tell us about stand up paddleboard touring

00:56:04 - What’s the culture around outdoor sports in Australia?

01:01:50 - Do you have standout stories from the Te Araroa?

01:05:28 - Who’s the biggest Australian celebrity?

01:06:50 - FMK: stand up paddleboarding, backpacking, and mountain biking

01:07:45 - How did you get so many Instagram followers?

01:10:10 - What do you think attributes to that many followers?

01:11:20 - How do you manage your content creation while hiking every day?

01:13:00 - What apps do you use?

01:14:35 - Do you think content creation adds or takes away from your hike?

01:16:50 - Discussion about monetizing content

01:18:00 - How long have you been with your tramily?

01:22:00 - What’s the strangest outreach you’ve gotten while on the PCT?

01:25:07 - What do you miss most about your wife?

01:27:05 - How have you been dealing with the fire situation on the PCT?

01:31:00 - Have you thought about hiking the Oregon Coast Trail?

01:34:02 - What is your approach to social media content?

01:37:02 - What are your top 2 or 3 stories from the PCT?

01:40:20 - What has been your best day on the PCT so far?

01:42:42 - What has been your scariest day on trail?

01:44:30 - What would your advice be for someone who wants to hike the PCT from abroad?

01:47:50 - How much would you tell someone to budget for the PCT?

01:50:15 - What’s next?

01:51:07 - Kumo Question: What is your spirit animal and why?

Segments

Trek Propaganda: Black Bear That Mauled 3-Year-Old Girl Near Yellowstone Has Been Euthanized by Kelly Floro

QOTD: Are Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays even days and Tuesdays, Thursdays odd days or vice versa?

Triple Crown of meat

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

[divider]

Check out our sound guy @my_boy_pauly/.

Leave us a voicemail!

Subscribe to this podcast on iTunes (and please leave us a review)!  Find us on Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play.

Support us on Patreon to get bonus content.

Advertise on Backpacker Radio

Follow The Trek, Chaunce, Badger, and Trail Correspondents on Instagram.

Follow Backpacker Radio, The Trek and Chaunce on YouTube.

Follow Backpacker Radio on Tik Tok. 

Our theme song is Walking Slow by Animal Years.

A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy ‘Trigger’ Fawns, and Griffin Haywood

A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Matthew Kesterson, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.