In this episode, Doc talks with Victoria Bruce about her harrowing childhood experiences, including being shipwrecked as a toddler and coping with PTSD and substance abuse through her formative years. Victoria shares insights from her book, 'Adventures with Emilie,' which details her healing journey on New Zealand's TA trail with her 7-year-old daughter. She discusses overcoming the trauma of her past, the therapeutic power of nature, and the joy of connecting with her daughter.

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, Doc interviews author and seasoned tramper Victoria Bruce about her experiences on New Zealand's Te Araroa trail. Victoria shares insights from her thru hike with her young daughter, the challenges and highlights of their journey, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. The conversation covers Victoria's favorite gear, her thoughts on trail wisdom, and her background growing up with adventurous parents.

In this episode, we converse with Alex Maier, a filmmaker, and dedicated hiker. Alex shares his journey from his first thru hike and his profound experience on the PNT in 2015, which led him to a career in outdoor filmmaking. He recounts hair-raising encounters in the wilderness, the influential hikers he has met, and the essential life lessons he gathered from hiking. Alex also discusses his collaborative projects, including documentaries on remarkable figures and extreme hiking and paddling endeavors. The episode dives into his partnership with his wife in their venture, Wilderness Mindset, and the challenges they face documenting their adventures. With eloquent reflections on pushing physical limits and maintaining motivation, Alex offers an inspiring look at the lifestyles of hikers and adventurers.

Link to Mississippi Speed Record on Amazon Prime:  Mississippi Speed Record

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, Doc welcomes Alex Maier, a thru hiker, filmmaker, and occasional podcaster, known for his documentary 'Figuring It Out on the Hayduke.' They dive into Alex's trail experiences, gear preferences, and memorable moments, including the importance of camera gear, a unique hitchhiking story, and his fascinating encounter with an unidentifiable creature on the CDT. They also discuss Alex's background, how he got into hiking, and his journey on various trails like the CDT, PNT, and NCT. Alex shares insights on trail culture, the best and worst decisions he's made, and his views on what makes a great trail town.

Link to Mississippi Speed Record on Amazon Prime:  Mississippi Speed Record

Rocket and Stump dive into the emotional challenges many long-distance hikers face after finishing a big trek. They discuss what post-trail depression looks like, why it happens, and actionable steps to move forward. This episode brings honest conversation and personal stories to help hikers feel less alone as they transition from the trail to everyday life.

In this bonus episode of Hiker Trash Radio, Doc engages in The Last 10 with thru hiker, bike packer, and ultra runner Davy DeVito. Listen in as Davy shares his latest adventures, musical inspirations, gear tips, and daily life insights. From his recent trek on the Chinook Trail to a surprising curry recipe, and his dream of living the van life, get to know Davy in this fun-sized episode designed to give a snapshot of what makes him tick.

In this Classic Doc episode from 2021, Doc hikes down a side trail this week, as guests and listeners share their trail names and the sometimes hilarious, sometimes scary, and always engaging stories behind them.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/hikertrashradio/support

In this episode, Doc talks with John Kelly, eight-time Barkley Marathons competitor. They discuss his experiences with the peculiar and challenging ultra-marathon, the race’s unique and arbitrary rules, and his recent participation in the 2025 event. The conversation covers the race dynamics, the intriguing stories of other participants, and the race's increased difficulty level. John shares his thoughts on the mental and physical demands of the Barkley Marathons, his attempts at the Appalachian Trail FKT (Fastest Known Time), and his future plans. They also touch on John’s preparation hacks and advice for ultra-runners and hikers alike.

In this exciting episode of Hiker Trash Radio, Doc interviews the legendary ultra runner John Kelly, a three-time finisher of the grueling Barkley Marathons. They discuss John's background, his introduction to ultra running, and some of his most memorable moments on the trail.

True tales of survival and rescue on the Pacific Crest Trail reveal the power of preparation and the lifesaving role of trail community and search-and-rescue teams. Rocket and Stump break down incredible stories of grit, luck, and the essential lessons for every hiker.