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Acclaimed author Kevin Fedarko, joins the podcast to discuss his new book, A Walk in the Park, which details the epic journey he took across the length of the Grand Canyon. Kevin reflects on the grueling physical and emotional challenges he and his hiking partner, Pete McBride, faced and how the landscape humbled them. He shares the powerful lessons learned from the wilderness and the close-knit Grand Canyon community that helped them along the way. Our conversation touches on themes of humility, the power of community, and how wilderness can shape us and strengthen our bonds. Kevin also provides insights into his six-year writing process and the deep connection he feels to the Grand Canyon.

Key Takeaways:

• Preparation Is Key: Overconfidence can lead to hard lessons, especially in the wilderness.
• Community Matters: Support from others can turn failure into triumph.
• Humility Is Transformative: The Grand Canyon has a way of humbling even the most seasoned adventurers.
• Conservation Is a Responsibility: Protecting wilderness ensures its legacy for future generations.
• Wilderness Connects Us: Experiencing the outdoors with loved ones deepens bonds and creates lasting memories.

Chapters/Show Notes & Links:

• Introduction to Kevin Fedarko’s Journey
• The Grand Canyon Trek: A Humbling Experience
• Community in the Canyon - A Lifesaving Force
• Lessons Learned from the Wilderness
• Wilderness and Conservation: A Personal Reflection
• Final Thoughts and Kevin’s Book Tour
• Buy the Book!!
• Watch the documentary
• https://www.kevinfedarko.com/
• Kevin's Instagram
• Kevin's on X
• Kevin on Facebook

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Alex Rich of Mystery Ranch shares his journey from the production floor to the design team, where he now focuses on creating outdoor and hunting gear that prioritizes load carriage and comfort. We dive into the brand's unique approach to pack design, including the revolutionary overload system, which allows users to carry heavy loads more efficiently.

Our conversation then turns to the technical aspects of Mystery Ranch packs, the balance between weight and durability, and the evolving materials used in outdoor gear. Alex also touches on the importance of starting from the user’s needs when designing, ensuring comfort and stability for hunters, backpackers, and outdoor adventurers alike.

This is the episode to listen to for anyone looking to learn more about Mystery Ranch and pack design.

Key Takeaways:

• Starting from the user: Mystery Ranch's design philosophy always begins with how the pack interfaces with the user, focusing on comfort and load distribution.
• Overload system innovation: The company’s overload system revolutionized hunting packs by allowing users to separate the pack from the frame for carrying additional weight.
• Balancing weight and durability: Mystery Ranch intentionally adds weight to certain parts of the pack to improve structural integrity and comfort for heavy loads, though they are exploring lighter materials like the 330D fabric.
• Foam design for durability: The waist belts of Mystery Ranch packs use a combination of five different types of foam to ensure long-term comfort and support, even with heavy loads.
• Adapting military pack designs for hunters: Mystery Ranch's transition from military to hunting packs was organic, with their military-grade designs proving useful for outdoor applications.
• Evolving materials: The conversation highlights how new materials, such as 330D fabrics, are pushing the boundaries of outdoor gear design.

Show Notes and Links:

• Introduction to Alex Rich and Mystery Ranch
• The Evolution of Mystery Ranch: Mission and Mountain
• The Overload System: Changing the Game for Hunters
• Design Philosophy: Focusing on the User
• Balancing Lightweight and Heavy-Duty Materials
• The Role of Foam in Load Distribution
• New Innovations and Materials in Outdoor Gear
• Conclusion: Making Outdoor Adventures Easier
• Mystery Ranch 
• Pop-Up Series
• Backpack Hunting Packs

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Andrew Cottrell is the lead designer of the Radix series of backpacks at Mystery Ranch, an innovative line of ultralight backpacks that combines comfort, durability, and weight-saving features. Andrew shares insights into his hands-on approach to design, the importance of balancing load-carrying capacity with ultralight performance, and how the right gear can impact a hiker’s endurance and comfort on the trail. We also explore the key materials used in the Radix Series and the importance of pack repairability.

Whether you're into backpacking, hiking, or simply interested in the technical aspects of pack design, this episode is packed with great insights.

Key Take Aways

• The Radix Series Prioritizes Load-Carrying Capacity
• Durability and Weight Are Balanced Through Innovative Materials
• Customization and Flexibility Are Core Features of the Radix Series
• Repairability Is a Key Design Focus
• Andrew’s Minimalist Approach to Packing
• The Adjustable Harness Ensures a Perfect Fit
• Pack Design Can Affect Physical and Mental Endurance
• Minimalist Design with Strategic Features
• Innovation at Mystery Ranch Is Driven by Problem-Solving
• Future-Proofing Packs for Long-Term Use

Show Notes and Links:

• Introduction and Background
• Journey into Pack Design
• The Design Process for the Radix Series
• Material Advancements and Innovation
• Load-Carrying Comfort in the Radix Series
• Customization and Minimalist Features
• Durability, Repairability, and Sustainability
• Andrew’s Personal Approach to Pack Organization
• Future Trends in Pack Design
• Mystery Ranch
• Radix 31
• Radix 47
• Radix 57

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Barefoot Ted is widely known for his role in the book Born to Run, but that's just a small part of who he is. In this episode, Ted discusses his approach to life and how to maintain a regular connection with the flow state in everyday life.

Show Notes and Links

• The Connection Between Movement, Music, and Ideas
• Barefoot Running and the Rediscovery of Natural Movement
• The Philosophy Behind Luna Sandals
• Barefoot Ted's Experience Running a Marathon Barefoot
• The Pursuit of Personal Challenges
• Developing a Philosophy and Attitude
• Creating a Lifestyle
• Overcoming Despair and Taking Action
• Finding Freedom and Pursuing Happiness
• Maintaining Flow State in Daily Life
• Sharing Wisdom and Life Experiences
• The Inspiration of Pilgrimages
• The Influence of Santa Claus
• The Connection to Junipero Serra
• The Fundamentals of Happiness
• The Importance of Time Outdoors
• The Role of Gear in Outdoor Adventures
• Backpacking as a Catalyst for Personal Growth
• The Importance of Being Present
• The Journey of Well-Being
• Imprinting Ourselves in Nature
• The Journey of Self-Empowerment
• The Power of Being Present
• Finding What Makes You Come Alive
• The Flywheel of Energy
• Hiking as a Journey of Self-Discovery
• Overcoming Challenges and Doing Better
• Learning More About Luna Sandals
• https://lunasandals.com/
• Middle Bear Sandals
• Luna Tabu socks
• Born to Run (the book)
• Ted's IG

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Jack McClure and his wife hiked southbound on the PCT in 2023 with their 9-month-old baby and joins the show to share their journey and lessons learned along the way.  We discuss what life is like as a SOBO, preparing for the hike, relationship challenges along the way, hitting the SOS button, and what it all means in the end. 

Show Notes and Links

• Preparing for the PCT with a Baby
• Outdoor Background and Experience
• Living in the Arctic and Outdoor Learning
• Judgment and Concerns about Hiking with Kids
• Benefits and Risks of Outdoor Experiences for Kids
• The Importance of Outdoor Experiences
• The Challenges of Alternative Childhood
• Risk Management and Planning
• The Breaking-In Period
• The Impact on the Body
• The Bee Sting Incident
• Emergency Response and Recovery
• The Importance of Carrying a Whistle
• Lessons Learned from the Experience
• Dealing with Fires in Northern California
• Challenges in the Relationship
• The Importance of Check-InsThe Mental Challenges of the Trail
• The Decision to Leave the Trail
• Dealing with Pride and Expectations
• The Positive Impact on Their Daughter
• https://animaltreks.com/
• Jack's Book

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Will Cockrell joins the podcast to discuss his recently published book detailing the history of Mount Everest, his perspective on the draw of mountaineering, and the connection between suffering and achievement. 

Will also explains the need to tell the full story of Everest, as well as the misconceptions and negative narratives surrounding the mountain. He challenges the idea of who deserves to climb Everest and questions the romanticism and judgment associated with mountaineering. Our conversation covers various themes related to climbing Everest, including the issue of discounting different approaches, the individualized nature of climbing, the perspective of seasoned climbers, the perception of Everest as spoiled, the reality of the Sherpa role, the misunderstanding of the Sherpa culture, the monetization of Everest, and the importance of seeking the whole Everest story.

Will shares insights from his book, reflecting on the state of the industry and the motivations of climbers and explores the relationship between Western climbers and Sherpas, highlighting the positive changes in recent years. Finally, we dive into the challenges of waste management and the future of Everest, emphasizing the importance of stewardship and the understanding of different perspectives.

Show Notes and Links

• Introductions
• Early Years and Pursuit of Guiding
• Specializing in Mo
• The Draw of Mountaineering
• The Connection Between Suffering and Achievement
• The Comfort of the Wilderness
• The Need for a Book on Guiding on Everest
• The Counter Narrative to the Negative Perception of Everest
• Questioning Who Deserves to Be on Everest
• The Romanticism and Judgment of Mountaineering
• The Perception of Crowding on Everest
• The Difficulty of Defining Who Deserves to Climb Everest
• The Individualized Nature of Climbing Everest
• The Perspective of Seasoned Everest Climbers
• The Reality of the Sherpa Role
• The Monetization of Everest
• The Importance of Seeking the Whole Story
• Reflections on the Everest Industry
• The State of the Everest Industry
• The Impact of Tourism on Everest
• The Experience at Everest Base Camp
• The Dilemma of Camp 4
• Balancing Conservation and Access
• The Future of Everest
• Will's book

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Brad Brooks joins the podcast to compare notes on our recent backpacking trips with our kids and discuss the importance of exposing children to the outdoors. We share our experiences and challenges while planning and executing our trips, emphasizing the value of involving children in the decision-making process and building their confidence in doing hard things. We also discuss the unique benefits of backpacking, such as disconnecting from technology and experiencing raw, uncurated adventures. 

We also discuss Argali’s new lineup of tents, their design, what makes these shelters unique, and Argali’s philosophy of constantly seeking improvement and innovation in gear design.   Brad dives into educating me on the materials used in the tent designs and the pros and cons of each.  

Show Notes and Links:

• Introduction and Catching Up
• Planning and Preparing for Backpacking with Kids
• The Challenges and Rewards of Backpacking with Kids
• Involving Kids in the Planning Process
• Building Confidence and Creating Lasting Memories
• The Future of Outdoor Experiences
•  Conclusion and Final Thoughts
• The Design and Functionality of the Absaroka TP Tent
• Polyester vs Nylon: The Debate in Tent Materials
• Innovation and Thinking Outside the Box in Gear Design
• The Importance of Functionality and Simplicity in Tent Design
• The Demands of the Hunting Community for High-Quality Gear
• Balancing Weight and Functionality in Gear Selection
• Encouraging Innovation and Creativity in the Outdoor Industry
• Passion for the Outdoors and Enhancing the Outdoor Experience
• Website
• YouTube
• Instagram
• Absoroka 4P
• Absoroka Full Insert
• Fabric Article
• Last Wild Places Film

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Aaron Owens runs “Backcountry Foodie,” a one-stop shop for backpackers and long-distance hikers who want to level up their food game in the backcountry.  From ultra-light food recipes and meal planners to a robust calorie calculator and resupply service, Aaron has you covered.  She loves backcountry food so much that she’ll even pack your food bag for you and ship it to your home so all you need to do is toss it in your pack and head out the door!
 

Key Takeaways:

• Food plays a crucial role in backpacking and can impact performance and enjoyment on the trail
• Creating a diverse menu with foods that you enjoy from home can help maintain energy levels and prevent boredom
• Understanding your caloric needs and eating regularly throughout the day is essential for sustained energy and avoiding bonking
• While junk food can provide quick energy, it's important to balance it with complex carbohydrates, protein, and fats for optimal performance
• Transitioning to a new diet on the trail should be done gradually to avoid digestive issues and other negative effects on the body.
• Customize your meal plans based on your hiking strategy and preferences.
• Maximize the nutritional value of each bite by incorporating combination foods
• Eat every hour to hour and a half to maintain energy levels throughout the day
• Consider freeze-drying your own meals for a lightweight and personalized backpacking experience
• Keep a hiking food journal to track what works and what doesn't for future trips

Show Notes and Links:

• Aaron's Backstory
• The Importance of Food in Backpacking
• Creating a Diverse Menu
• Understanding Caloric Intake
• The Importance of Eating Regularly
• The Pros and Cons of a Junk Food Diet
• Transitioning to a New Diet and Its Effects
• Emergency Food and Snacks
• Customized Meal Plans Based on Hiking Strategy
• Maximizing Caloric Intake
• Combination Foods
• Eating for Warmth in Cold Weather
• Eating on the Go
• Palette Changes
• Freeze Drying
• Foodie Services
• https://backcountryfoodie.com/aff/53/
• https://www.instagram.com/backcountry_foodie
• https://www.youtube.com/c/BackcountryFoodie
• https://www.facebook.com/backcountryfoodie

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Robbie Kroger of Blood Origins joins the show to discuss the complex relationship between hunting and conservation.  

We cover a range of topics, including the reintroduction of wolves, the function of wetlands, what would happen if we stopped hunting altogether, and finally, the impact social media has had on hunting.  We also discuss the responsibilities brands have in shaping narratives and the importance of a respectful approach to hunting as a part of conservation. 

Robbie is a wealth of knowledge and one heck of a guy!

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Janelle Smith is the strategic communications team lead at rec.gov and is responsible for spreading the word about the myriad of offerings the platform has for outdoor enthusiasts.  As the summer season approaches, many of us are deep in the planning mode for camping trips, making this conversation with Janelle and her team a no-brainer.

If you're not yet familiar with rec.gov, think of it as your ultimate planning companion for camping and various outdoor activities.  Janelle walks us through the functionalities of this planning tool, highlighting how it simplifies the process of discovering available sites, understanding what's out there, and crafting the perfect trip itinerary.

Janelle's role as a key representative for rec.gov makes her insights particularly valuable.  Whether you're a seasoned user or a newcomer, this episode will likely uncover nuances about rec.gov that you might not have considered.


Show Notes and Links:

• Getting to know Janelle
• Rec.gov services and mission
• Recreation before Rec.gov
• 2023 recreational trends
• New features for 2024
• Addressing no-show campers
• Post COVID trends
• Advice for booking popular campsites
• The “Trip Builder” feature
• Janelle’s “why” behind what she does
• The “big picture”
• Encouraging exploration
• https://www.recreation.gov/

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