Welcome back to the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, This week I'm joined by Triple Crown Hiker Carey Kish. A tireless hiker, outdoor and travel writer, Registered Maine Guide, and self-proclaimed certified fun-meister. Carey's the author of Beer Hiking New England and a longtime columnist whose stories have inspired outdoor lovers across Maine and beyond for over two decades. We dig into trails, tales, and yes . . . a few cold brews along the way.

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What Happened: I'll be honest—before I ever hiked a long trail, I thought "grizzly country" was just a phrase thrown around to add spice to trail stories. Dramatic? Sure. But let me tell you, when you're deep in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, carrying bear spray for the first time, sleeping in wild country with bear scat nearby, you start to feel what it means to not be top of the food chain.

And no, I didn't see a grizzly. But they saw me. I know they saw me.

But even wilder than the bears was the realization that after three long trails—Appalachian Trail, PCT, and CDT—I'd done it. Triple Crown, baby. I didn't even set out to do it. It just happened. One trail became two, and then I thought, "What the hell, might as well do the third."

It was grueling, wild, hilarious (beer man, reporting for duty), and full of more characters than a Quentin Tarantino film. But that finish at the Canadian border? That was everything.

Principle: Here's the truth: You don't need to have the perfect plan. You don't need to start with all the gear dialed. You sure as heck don't need to wait for the right time. The only thing that really matters? That you go. Just start. One step. Then another.

Adventures don't require perfection. They just need momentum.

Transition: The problem is, most people let logistics, fear, or lack of a clear roadmap stop them from ever taking the first step. They think they need a six-month sabbatical, the latest gear, or some magical trail wisdom passed down by a bearded sage.

They don't.

What they really need is someone who's been there—who's faced the bears (literal and metaphorical), hit the wall, and kept going.

That's why… That's why I brought Carrie Kish on the podcast. Because she's been through the highs and the lows—blisters, burnout, bourbon nights in the tent—and came out the other side with stories that prove you can do this. She's not just a hiker; she's a storyteller, a guide, and someone who's figured out how to keep putting one foot in front of the other, no matter what.

Call to Action: If you've been dreaming of a big trail adventure but keep getting stuck in the planning—or worse, in the fear—this episode is your wake-up call. Stop waiting for perfect. Listen in now and discover how Carrie turned wild hikes and cold beers into a life well-lived (and how you can too).

🎧 Listen to the latest episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast now. Your trail starts here.

Show Notes:

Favorite piece of gear

Puffy jacket from LL Bean

Favorite Authors

GearColin Fletcher

John Krakauer

Chris Bonnington

The travel works of Mary Morris

Contact Carey

Email: [email protected]

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Books

Thank you for joining us on another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast. Be sure to visit our website, rick saes.com. You'll find show notes and links to everything we talked about and more. And while you're at it, if you found value in this show, give us a rating on Apple Podcast or spread the word and tell a friend.

That would really help us out too. We should tune in every week. Thanks again for listening to the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast.

Welcome to the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast. Today, on episode 501, Earl B. Hunter, Jr. from Black Folks Camp To make a second visit to The Show.

is the Founder and President of Black Folks Camp Too — a marketing-driven business whose mission is to increase diversity in the outdoor industry by making it easier, more interesting, and more fun for Folks to go camping.

He's an experienced business leader across multiple industries. He has been widely recognized for his ebullient personality, hard work ethic, and non-traditional approach to building relationships and closing deals.

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What Happened:

It was the summer of 2017. I was clocking miles like a long-haul trucker, repping campers for a living. My 7-year-old son called me out—said I'd promised to take him to Mount Rushmore. He was right. I'd driven past it more times than I could count, but I'd never stopped. So we hit the road.

We camped our way across the country, father and son, a Black duo in a tiny pop-up trailer, parking it beside some seriously decked-out RV setups. We saw the sights, roasted marshmallows, and somewhere near Albuquerque, we spotted something we hadn't seen in thousands of miles: another Black family camping. My son lit up and said, "Hey Daddy! Black people!"

That moment stuck. We talked to the family—Kimberly and crew—and she said something that flipped a switch in my brain: "Why don't you change that then?" That "why not you?" hit hard. By the time we were driving up the California coast, the name Black Folks Camp Too was born.

Principle:

Too often, we wait for permission—permission to belong, to show up, to start something meaningful. But sometimes, it takes seeing the gap with your own eyes, feeling the silence in certain spaces, to realize: you're the one who's supposed to fill it.

And in business, just like in the outdoors, if you're only serving the same people the same way… you're gonna miss the fire. The campfire, that is.

Transition:

Most people think getting more folks into the outdoors is about better gear or cool photos on Instagram. But that's not it. The real challenge is the invitation—and the welcome. And too many companies still don't know why the diversity gap exists, so they don't know how to fix it.

That's why a lot of businesses are struggling. Not because there's no market—but because they don't see who they're ignoring. And even when they do? They get hung up on the word Black in the name… instead of focusing on the unity behind the mission.

That's why:

That's why this episode matters. Earl Hunter isn't just talking about camping—he's talking about culture, connection, and cracking open an industry that's been too exclusive for too long. He's not asking for handouts or kumbayas. He's showing up with data, vision, and a real plan to shift the outdoor industry before it goes broke.

Call to Action (PAS style):

If you've ever felt like the outdoor world wasn't built for you—or your brand's been stuck serving the same crowd—it's time to tune in. Ignoring the invitation problem won't fix it. But this episode will give you a fresh lens and a fire to take action.

👉 Hit play now. Let's change the campfire conversation.

Show Notes:

Earl B. Hunter Jr.

Black Folks Camp Too

Oboz Insoles

Sylvansport

Georgia Military College

Appalachian State University

Earl's Trail name: Icebreaker

Mount Rushmore

Unity Blaze

Favorite piece of outdoor gear: OBOZ Insoles

Favorite book: The Billion Dollar Bet, Bob Johnson

Advice: the first advice I would give folks is, is to go to our unity, go to black folks camp too, and go to our Unity blaze map and find campgrounds that are on our map that are actually there. Those folks are truly invited and welcoming you to camp at their campground.

I would also say to know before you go. Do as much research as you can. You have these devices now, and you have so many YouTube channels and things of that nature to learn about camping.

Follow up with Earl: [email protected]

Black Folks Camp Too

#Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, #Black Folks Camp Too, #Earl Hunter, #diversity in the outdoors, #Appalachian State, #Unity Blaze, #outdoor industry, #inclusion, #Unity Blaze partners, #outdoor community, #backpacking, #state parks, #Oboz Footwear, #Spacious Skies Campgrounds, #outdoor lifestyle, #RV camping, #outdoor participation, #unity in outdoors, #generational transfer, #environmental stewardship.

Thank you for joining us on another episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast. Be sure to visit our website, rick saes.com. You'll find show notes and links to everything we talked about and more. And while you're at it, if you found value in this show, give us a rating on Apple Podcast or spread the word and tell a friend.

That would really help us out too. We should tune in every week. Thanks again for listening to the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast.

Welcome Episode 500 of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast . . . Today I'm joined by Lindsay Cousley — a seasoned executive leader with deep roots in the outdoor, sporting goods, and wellness industries. He's helped build and scale global brands with heart, empathy, and a whole lot of strategic know-how. Outside the boardroom, Lindsay surfs, cycles, backpacks, hikes, and even plays rugby — living proof that adventure fuels leadership.

Show Notes

Lindsay Cousley

Linkedin

When I was 14, I wasn't reading business books or plotting a career. I was deep in the Alps, sweating under a too-heavy pack, trying not to get left behind by a youth leader named Paul who thought "rest day" was code for "hike faster." We carried everything on our backs, got lost a few times (intentionally or not, I still wonder), and somehow made it from France to Italy and back through Switzerland. It was magic.

But here's the kicker—I didn't know it then, but that summer was shaping how I'd lead teams, sell products, and build brands.

Fast forward a few decades, and I'm sitting in a boardroom, helping turn around an outdoor company. It's go time. No time for perfect plans, just the instinct to act, adapt, and trust the people around you. Sound familiar? That's wilderness training 101.

Adventure doesn't just happen in the mountains. It shows up in every tough decision, every product pitch, and every "what now?" moment in business. The most successful leaders in the outdoor space don't wait for permission—they act, they adapt, and most importantly, they care. Passion for the outdoors isn't a cute brand trait—it's the fuel that drives resilient leadership.

Too many folks think a successful outdoor career comes from the right resume or the right LinkedIn connections. But what's really holding them back isn't lack of experience—it's a lack of direction. They're stuck waiting to be "qualified," not realizing that leadership often comes from showing up, not showing off.

That's why this episode is a must-listen. Lindsay Cousley doesn't just talk outdoor—he's lived it. From hauling gear across Europe as a teen to reviving struggling companies in the U.S., his journey is a masterclass in how passion, people, and a little grit can fuel leadership at any level.

Still feeling like you're stuck watching others make moves in the outdoor space while you spin your wheels? That "meh" feeling about your impact isn't just in your head—it's a sign you need a new approach. Let Lindsay's story show you what's possible when you blend passion with purpose. 🎧 Tune in to the episode now and start crafting your own adventure-fueled leadership story.

#Adventure Travel, #Outdoor Industry, #Brand Building, #Specialty Retail, #Consumer Goods, #Cannabis Industry, #Business Strategy, #Digital Marketing, #Geotargeted Campaigns, #Direct to Consumer Sales, #Team Leadership, #Innovation, #New York Business, #Trade Shows

Welcome to episode 499 of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast. Today, I'm talking with Casey Hanisko. Casey is a distinguished leader in adventure travel. She's the former President of the Adventure Travel Trade Association and an executive coach helping tourism leaders navigate change. Recognized among the "50 Most Important Women in Travel," she shares her expertise through media, speaking engagements, and her "Leading Naturally" newsletter.

Show Notes

Casey Hanisko

Linkedin

Guest Focus

Instagram

Adventure Travel Trade Association

1. Ever stood at the edge of something terrifying—knowing the only way forward is to leap, but every cell in your body is screaming, Nope? That was me on a canyon swing in Interlaken. Spoiler: I needed a push.
2. You think making high-stakes decisions in business is tough? Try standing on the edge of a 300-foot drop, debating whether plummeting into the abyss is a good idea.
3. There's a moment in adventure—and in leadership—where hesitation creeps in. Your palms sweat. Your mind races. And sometimes, you need someone to give you that push.

I'd like to think I'm pretty fearless. I've hiked, biked, and paddled my way through some of the world's most stunning (and challenging) landscapes. But nothing—not rock climbing, not waterfall jumping, not even running a business—prepared me for the sheer terror of standing on the edge of a canyon swing in Interlaken.

Picture this: I'm perched on the platform, strapped in, heart pounding. My entire executive team—yes, the people I work with—are watching. The guy running the swing looks at me and asks, "Need a push?"

ABSOLUTELY NOT!

I sit there for two full minutes, locked in a battle with my own fear. Every rational thought in my brain says, Just do it. But my body? Oh, my body says, Are you out of your mind?!

Then, the guy places a hand on my back. Just enough pressure to remind me: I either take the leap myself, or I'm going anyway.

And that was it. I went. Terrified. Screaming. And, once I hit the swing… laughing.

That moment on the canyon swing? It's leadership in a nutshell.

• Leadership requires courage. Sometimes, you're at the edge of a big decision, knowing you need to move—but fear holds you back.
• Sometimes, you need support. That guiding hand (or well-placed nudge) from someone who sees your potential, even when you doubt yourself.
• And often, the thing you dread most? Ends up being the most exhilarating experience of your life.

Whether it's taking the leap into a leadership role, starting that business, or stepping into unknown territory—you're going to feel fear. That's normal. The key is to recognize it, hold it, and move forward anyway.

The problem is, most people let fear stop them. They overthink. They hesitate. They tell themselves they need more time, more preparation, more certainty.

But here's the truth: the perfect moment? It doesn't exist.

Too many outdoor entrepreneurs and leaders stall out waiting for the "right time" to make their next move—whether that's scaling a business, stepping into leadership, or launching that dream trip.

That's why, in this episode of The Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, I sat down with Casey Esco—executive coach, adventure leader, and all-around expert on navigating uncertainty in business and the outdoors.

She shares exactly how adventure can teach us to embrace risk, push through hesitation, and build the courage to lead (even when you're scared out of your mind).

If fear has ever held you back from making a move—whether in your career, your business, or even your next adventure—you need to hear this episode.

Because courage isn't about being fearless. It's about taking the leap anyway.

#Outdoor Adventure, #Podcast, #Adventure Travel, #Leadership, #Coaching, #Outdoor Activities, #Nature, #Curiosity, #Camping, #Hiking, #Strategic Planning, #Storytelling, #Diversity, #Women Leaders, #Inclusivity, #Nature Inspired Coaching, #Outdoor Brands, #Business Strategy, #Personal Growth, #Passion, #Wellness, #Travel Experiences, #Adventure Community, #Outdoor Lifestyle, #Networking, #Conservation, #Adventure Stories

In this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, we dive into upland bird hunting with Edgar Castillo—hunter, writer, and retired law enforcement officer. Edgar shares his unique background, how a neighbor introduced him and his father to hunting, and what led him to dedicate his outdoor life to chasing birds. We explore his favorite upland hunting destinations, the gear he never leaves behind, and his journey into outdoor writing. Plus, we discuss the critical role of public lands and conservation in keeping these adventures alive for future generations. Get ready for an inspiring and adventure-filled conversation with Edgar Castillo!

Huntsbirdz

Kansas Bird Hunting

United States Marine Corps

"When I first moved to the U.S. from Guatemala, hunting wasn't even a concept in my world. My family didn't do it. My dad didn't do it. It just wasn't a thing. But then our neighbor, Tom, took my dad under his wing and introduced him to the world of hunting—first waterfowl, then upland game.

I, of course, tagged along, eager to be part of whatever my dad was doing. Everything was going great until one fateful day when Tom handed my dad some venison. My dad took one bite… and got violently sick. Not once, not twice, but every time he ate deer meat. Turns out, he was allergic to venison.

That was it—deer hunting was officially off the table for our family. My dad stuck to birds, and so did I.

Looking back, I could've ventured into hunting big game on my own. But I know myself—I go all in when I commit to something. If I started deer hunting, I'd be up to my ears in gear, obsessively tracking seasons and probably planning elk hunts across the country. So, I made a choice: stick to what I love, where the adventure is just as thrilling, and where I don't have to explain to my wife why I need a new deep freezer."

Sometimes, the best decisions come from knowing your limits. It's easy to get caught up in the idea of doing everything—whether it's hunting, business, or life in general. But true mastery (and real joy) comes from focusing on what you truly love and getting really, really good at it.

Too many people try to do it all. They think more = better, whether it's hunting, hobbies, or even running a business. But that's not always the case. The reality? Spreading yourself too thin often means never truly excelling at anything.

That's why, in this episode of The Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, I sat down with Edgar Castillo to talk about how he found his niche in upland hunting, why he never strayed into big game, and how his passion for storytelling and conservation led him to an unexpected writing career. If you've ever struggled with choosing your lane—or wondered how to make the most of the one you're in—you'll love this conversation.

If you've ever felt like you're chasing too many things at once, this episode is for you. Learn how to find joy, adventure, and mastery in one passion—and how focusing can actually open up even bigger opportunities. Listen now to our latest episode here:

#Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, #bird hunting, #Edgar Castillo Writer, #Outdoor Writers Association of America, #OWAA, #law enforcement, #United States Marine Corps, #hunting, #waterfowl, #upland game, #public lands, #Alaska, #ptarmigan, #grouse, #quail, #conservation, #wing shooting, #storytelling, #outdoor writing, #public land access, #mentoring, #outdoor recreation, #outdoor camp, #freelance writing

Legendary Leo Lebon, hailed as the grandfather of adventure travel. Leo shares his incredible journey from humble beginnings in Belgium to co-founding the ground-breaking California-based company, MT Sobek, which helped launch the adventure travel industry.

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Show Notes

Leo Le Bon

Wanderlust Consulting

MT Sobek

Thomas Cook's

Sierra Club

Colonel James Roberts, Mountain Travel Nepal

Gurkha officer

Alan Steck

Richard Bangs

Mountain Lodges of Peru

Picture this: You're young, your life's in flux, and your mom casually suggests, "Why don't you go visit my cousin in New York?"—a cousin you didn't even know existed. That's exactly how Leo Le Bon's adventure began.

Fast forward a few months, and he's driving a stranger's car across America just to get his $50 deposit back. (Gas was 25 cents a gallon back then—can you imagine?)

One thing led to another. A chance meeting. A hiking trip. A casual chat with a fellow climber who just happened to have connections in Nepal. And before he knew it, Leo wasn't just exploring—he was pioneering an entire industry.

There were no guidebooks. No established trails. No GPS. Just a wild dream and a whole lot of figuring-it-out-as-you-go.

And that's how adventure travel as we know it was born.

The biggest adventures don't start with a perfect plan—they start with a yes.

Leo didn't wait until he had everything figured out. He said yes to a cross-country road trip. Yes to a new job. Yes to a trek in Nepal before most people even knew where Nepal was.

The truth? Most people sit around waiting for the "right time" to go after something big—whether it's an adventure, a new business, or a major life shift. But adventure (and success) doesn't work that way. You don't need certainty. You need a willingness to start.

Too many people get stuck waiting for the stars to align before they chase their dreams. They tell themselves: 🚧 I need more time. 🚧 I need more money. 🚧 I need to be more prepared.

But the pioneers—the ones who really make things happen—don't wait. They jump in. They make moves. They let the journey unfold.

If you've ever felt stuck—like you're standing on the edge of something big but hesitating to take that first step—this episode is for you.

That's why, in this episode, we're diving deep with Leo Le Bon, the godfather of adventure travel, to uncover: ✅ How a single trekking trip changed everything ✅ Why adventure travel exploded in the U.S. (and how it almost didn't happen) ✅ The mindset shift you need to stop hesitating and start moving

You don't need to be climbing Everest to get value from this conversation. Whether you're looking to shake up your life, career, or next big trip—this episode will give you the push you need.

If you're tired of waiting for the "perfect time" and ready to start your own adventure—this is your sign.

🔊 Listen to Episode 497 now and learn how to stop waiting, start moving, and create the kind of life you'd actually write a book about.

🎧 Click here to listen

Key Words

#Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, #Rick Saez, #Leo Le Bon, #adventure travel, #Mount Sobek, #trekking, #Nepal, #foot safaris, #Kenya, #adventure destinations, #Tibet, #China, #Chile, #Peru, #Greenland, #hiking, #climbing, #kayaking, #skiing, #travel stories, #Sierra Club, #Thomas Cook, #Mountain Travel, #Mount Everest, #Everest Base Camp, #adventure travel industry, #Wanderlust Consulting, #Machu Picchu, #South America, #tourism, #conservation

Today on Episode 496 I'm talking with Mattias Jansson from the National Pilgrim Center in Trondheim, Norway. I recently had the opportunity to hike the Pilgrim Path along Olav's Way, and if you get the chance, do it. Not only is the walk beautiful, but the history is quite interesting as well.

Not only is the walk beautiful, but the history is quite interesting as well.

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I've done my fair share of hiking. From the John Muir Trail to the PCT, I thought I had a pretty solid handle on what makes an adventure worthwhile. But then I found myself in Norway, walking the Pilgrim Path to Nidaros Cathedral, and something shifted.

It wasn't just the landscapes—though, let me tell you, those were next level. One day, we were trekking through misty mountains. The next, we were passing through sleepy villages, exchanging nods with locals who've seen hikers like us for centuries.

And then there was that one wild day—the rain poured, the wind howled, and instead of hurrying through it, we stopped to make coffee by a quiet pond. No rush, no race, just being in the moment. That's when it hit me: This wasn't just a hike. It was something deeper. Something that had been calling to people for over a thousand years.

It made me wonder: Why do we chase adventure? What are we really searching for?

Here's the truth: Many people think adventure is about ticking off trails, collecting miles, or conquering nature. But the best adventures? They change you.

A pilgrimage isn't just about getting from point A to B. It's about stripping away the layers of everyday life—the distractions, the to-do lists, the noise—until all that's left is you, the trail, and whatever you're meant to discover along the way.

Many people don't realize it, but they're searching for more than just adventure. They're searching for meaning. And yet, so many never find it—not because they're not looking, but because they don't know where to look.

And …

That's why, in this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, we sat down with Mattias Jansson, a modern-day guide of these ancient trails. We talk about the Viking roots of the Pilgrim Path, the deep connection between adventure and self-discovery, and why people from all over the world are drawn to this experience today.

If you've ever felt stuck—like your adventures aren't quite scratching that itch anymore—this episode is for you. Because adventure isn't just about new places. It's about new perspectives.

🎧 Listen to the latest episode now and find out why people are trading their modern comforts for a walk through history.

👉 Click here to listen.

P.S. If you had to leave everything behind for a month and walk one trail, where would it be? Hit reply—I want to know.

Show Notes

Mattias Jansson

National Pilgrim Center in Trondheim, Norway

Olavs Way

#Outdoor Adventure, #Inspiring Stories, #Thrilling Adventures, #Expert Insights, #Outdoor Adventure Community, #Avid Hiker, #Passionate Camper, #Adventure Traveler, #Matthias Janssen, #National Pilgrim Center, #Trondheim Norway, #Pilgrim Path, #Olav's Way, #Nidaros Cathedral, #Pilgrimage History, #Viking Culture, #Saint Olav, #Norway Pilgrimage, #Scandinavian Heritage, #Mountain Hiking, #Scenic Sites, #Spiritual Journey, #Outdoor Recreation

This week, on episode 495, I'm talking with Will Schafer, founder of Altisnooze. The First-of-its-kind sleep aid for high-altitude.

After struggling for years with sleeping during alpine adventures, Schafer came to learn from a sleep doctor that altitude insomnia is a thing. He connected with formulation experts to develop a natural solution, ALTISNOOZE.

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For years, I chalked up my awful sleep in the mountains to bad luck. Every time I went to Summit County, Colorado, my nights were a mess—staring at the ceiling, waking up feeling like I'd been run over by a snowcat, and then trying to enjoy the outdoors while running on fumes.

I blamed it on travel, excitement, bad pillows—you name it. But then I started noticing something weird. Friends on ski trips and camping adventures were having the same problem. Some of them, tough-as-nails hikers and backcountry warriors, were walking around like zombies after a single night at altitude.

That's when I met Dr. Michael Breus, a legit sleep doctor, who hit me with a truth bomb: altitude insomnia is real. And worse? It affects up to 75% of people. Your body's struggling with low oxygen, which wrecks your sleep cycle, making it nearly impossible to rest.

So, I set out on a mission to fix it. After a deep dive into research, testing a ridiculous amount of natural ingredients, and countless sleepless nights (for science), I created Altisnooze—a sleep aid designed specifically for high-altitude adventures, without the grogginess of melatonin.

Bad sleep = bad adventure. Period.

You can have the best gear, the most epic trail planned, and a perfect sunrise waiting for you—but if you don't sleep well, your trip is going to suck.

Most people don't even realize altitude is the issue. They just assume they're bad sleepers, or that their body needs to "adjust." But waiting around for a week to acclimate? Not ideal when your trip is only a few days long.

Good sleep isn't just about comfort—it's about performance, recovery, and actually enjoying the adventure you planned.

A lot of outdoor lovers deal with this and don't even realize what's holding them back. They push through exhaustion, drink too much caffeine, or try to knock themselves out with melatonin—only to wake up feeling worse.

That's exactly why I created Altasnooze. Because when you finally fix your sleep at altitude, everything changes—your energy, your performance, your mood, and most importantly, how much fun you have.

…we want to introduce you to Altisnooze and just dropped an episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast with Will Schaefer, founder of Altisnooze. He went from being a sleep-deprived mess in the mountains to developing a game-changing solution for adventurers who want to feel fabulous at altitude.

In this episode, we dive into the science of altitude insomnia, how it messes with your body, and what you can do to fix it—so your next high-altitude trip doesn't turn into a sleepless disaster.

If you've ever struggled to sleep in the mountains, this episode is your wake-up call. (Pun intended.)

Don't let altitude ruin your adventure—get the inside scoop on fixing your sleep at high elevation and feeling your best.

#Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, #altitude insomnia, #AltiSnooze, #high altitude sleep aid, #altitude sickness, #sleep doctor, #Michael Breus, #adventure travel, #melatonin-free, #sleep disturbance, #alpinists, #electrolytes, #high altitude adventures, #natural supplements, #altitude symptoms

🎧 Listen to the latest episode now → Podcast Link

P.S. Want to try Altasnooze? Will's giving our listeners 20% off! Just use code OutdoorBiz20 at checkout. Because better sleep = better adventures.

Show Notes

Will Schafer

ALTISNOOZE

Dr. Michael Breus

This week on episode 494, I'm talking with Christian Beckwith, podcaster, founder, and executive director of the Teton Climbers Coalition. Christian has spent more than 30 years immersed in the world of alpinism.

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Show Notes

I've always thought I was tough—until I heard Christian Beckwith's story about soldiers in the 10th Mountain Division lugging 90-pound rucksacks up snowy peaks. Yeah, you read that right. Ninety pounds. I complain when my backpack has an extra water bottle.

Christian didn't just stumble on this story; he's been living it. Picture this: a guy obsessed with climbing history starts digging into old summit registers (yes, that's a thing), trying to understand why climbing activity flatlined during WWII. What he found wasn't just a gap in the record—it was a portal into a hidden chapter of outdoor history.

Turns out, the 10th Mountain Division wasn't just fighting battles overseas; they were rewriting the playbook for outdoor adventure. Their training? Skiing with ancient gear, battling blizzards, and carrying enough weight to break the spirit of any weekend warrior. And when they came home, they didn't just hang up their skis—they built the ski resorts and outdoor culture we know today.

Here's the kicker: The adventures we take for granted today—ski trips, alpine climbing, even the gear we use—exist because of people who pushed past the limits of what was comfortable, convenient, or even reasonable. Growth doesn't come from playing it safe; it comes from leaning into discomfort, whether that's a literal 90-pound pack or the metaphorical weight of trying something new.

Most people think adventure is about escaping comfort zones. But here's the truth: It's about what you bring back from the edge. If you've ever felt stuck—like your outdoor goals (or personal ones) are out of reach—it might be because you're missing the bigger picture: the legacy of resilience that shaped the very trails you're walking.

That's why in this episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, Christian Beckwith shares how the forgotten grit of the 10th Mountain Division still shapes our outdoor experiences today. Their story isn't just history—it's a lesson in how to live with purpose, courage, and maybe even a heavier backpack (metaphorically speaking… unless you're into that).

Feeling like your outdoor adventures lack depth or connection? It's not just you—most of us don't realize the roots that ground our passions. Don't let that disconnect hold you back. Discover the untold story behind your favorite outdoor spaces and find new inspiration for your own journey. Listen to the full episode here and get ready to carry your own "90-pound rucksack" in life—with pride.

Ninety Pound Rucksack Podcast

Camp Hale

Teton Climbers Coalition

In episode 493 of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast, I'm talking with Haley Stuart, filmmaker, environmentalist, and whitewater instructor. Haley joins us to discuss her work protecting rivers, collaborating with communities across the Americas, and raising awareness about mega hydroelectric impacts. Her journey inspires meaningful action for lasting environmental change.

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Show Notes

What if I told you that rivers could teach us more about life than a self-help book ever could?

When Haley Stewart first dipped her paddle into a river, she wasn't chasing adrenaline—she was running headfirst into her fears. Growing up in suburban New York, she didn't even know kayaking was a sport. It wasn't until she attended a kayaking-focused high school (yes, those exist!) that she realized rivers weren't just a setting for adventures—they were life itself, rushing and relentless, filled with twists, turns, and lessons.

At first, the sport terrified her. But over time, the pull of the water and the tight-knit community of paddlers won her over. What started as a hesitant curiosity turned into an unshakable passion. Traveling the world, Haley discovered the hard truth: many of the rivers she loved were under threat—from dams, mining, and neglect. She couldn't sit by and watch them disappear.

That's when everything changed.

She met indigenous communities who lived alongside these rivers, fighting daily battles to protect what had sustained them for generations. Haley realized something profound: saving rivers wasn't just about ecology—it was about people, too. And through her work, she's helping amplify their voices, blending storytelling, conservation, and sheer grit to make an impact.

The heart of Haley's story? Real change starts when we listen. Listen to the rivers, the people who live near them, and the truth about what's really happening in the world's wildest places. Many of us dream of adventure, but few think about what happens when those landscapes are lost.

It's not enough to explore the outdoors—we need to protect it.

Too often, we underestimate the power of our choices—what we support, what we fight for, or even where we decide to paddle. We think, "Someone else will handle it," or "What difference can I make?" But here's the truth: you matter more than you think.

Haley's work reminds us that our adventures and the decisions we make along the way can transform the fate of entire ecosystems and the communities they sustain.

That's why this week's episode of the Outdoor Adventure Lifestyle Podcast is a must-listen. Haley's journey from nervous kayaker to river conservationist will inspire you to think differently about the waterways we all rely on—and how you can play a role in preserving them.

Are you ready to discover the adventure, responsibility, and heart that comes with loving rivers? Tune in to hear Haley's story. Don't just explore the outdoors—help protect it for the next generation.

Amazonian Rivers Initiative

Rios to Rivers

Tuichi River

Paddle Tribal Waters & Kayakimün

👉 Click here to listen now!

The Women Behind Still River, Silent Jungle

TEDx talk by Hayley: Dammed if We Do: A Closer Look at the Dangers of Mega Hydro

Amazonian River Allies Bolivia (ARA Bolivia)

Follow up wth Hayley here: [email protected]

Are you ready to discover the adventure, responsibility, and heart that comes with loving rivers? Tune in to hear Haley's story. Don't just explore the outdoors—help protect it for the next generation.

👉 Click here to listen now!

Follow up wth Hayley here: [email protected]