Outskirts Overland Podcast

What if navigating life as a single dad could actually enhance your overlanding adventures? This episode of Outskirts Overland is all about my personal journey reconnecting with the community after a brief hiatus. From celebrating family milestones to dealing with health matters, it's been a season of growth and reflection. I share my excitement about upcoming events like the Big Iron Overland Rally and Rendezvous in the Ozarks, and how these gatherings are more about camaraderie than off-roading thrills. Plus, I've got some heartfelt updates about spending quality time with my kids and gearing up for some exhilarating winter camping trips with friends.

Eager to know what makes a truck truly adventure-ready? My rig is about 80% complete, and I can’t wait to showcase it at the Big Iron event. Whether you're interested in custom mods or the latest gear, this episode has you covered. I’ll give you the lowdown on my recent positive interactions with companies and why supporting American-made products is crucial, especially as a veteran. Don't miss out on the custom sticker giveaway—100 stickers will be up for grabs, right on my truck's tailgate. I also open up about a significant shift in my military career and its profound impact on my life, making this episode a mix of personal and practical insights.

As the colder months approach, how do you ensure your gear is always in top shape? I break down my seasonal preparation strategies, from diesel heaters to my favorite outdoor brands like Mountain Hardwear and NEMO. Learn how I stay packed for each season, ensuring my truck is always ready for any adventure. I'll also share tips on organizing your gear, maintaining electronics, and the importance of redundancy. Plus, stay tuned for an exciting discussion on battery-powered tools for overlanding and how to manage winter power needs effectively. Join me in celebrating the relaxed vibe of the Big Iron event and let's cheer on the Bears as they take on the Texans!

Ever wondered how a truck project, a birthday trip, and a rally collide into one amazing episode? Join me, Charlie Racinowski, on Outskirts Overland as we catch up on my latest vehicle updates and the birthday trip that almost delayed our chat. We'll dive into the exciting Big Iron Overland Rally and Rendezvous in the Ozarks, where you can connect with fellow enthusiasts and admire some jaw-dropping vehicles. Plus, we’ll touch on how overlanders are embracing the homesteading trend and the surprising influence of the movie "Twisters" on our community. There's so much to unpack—get ready for an engaging adventure filled with stories and insights.

Looking to make the most out of holiday weekends? I’m here to debunk the myth that campsites are always overcrowded during these times. Drawing from my own peaceful camping experiences in Missouri and Colorado, we’ll discuss why these weekends can actually be prime times to enjoy the great outdoors. We'll also celebrate family milestones, including my daughter Annika's ninth birthday and my own special day. Whether you're a seasoned camper or just considering your first trip, this episode will inspire you to seize the moment and explore nature. Happy birthday to Annika, and here's to an unforgettable outdoor adventure!

What if you could transform a stock pickup into the ultimate off-road machine? Join us as Brian from Boondock Haverlock takes us through his fascinating journey of turning a simple Silverado into a formidable overland vehicle. Inspired by his childhood camping adventures and reignited by the pandemic, Brian shares the challenges and triumphs of his evolving passion for overlanding, eventually leading him and his wife to switch to a more capable Toyota Tacoma. Hear first-hand about the initial struggles, including the necessity of a Rough Country leveling kit, and how these early modifications paved the way for greater adventures.

Ready to take your overlanding game to the next level? We detail the meticulous upgrades made to Brian’s Tacoma, enhancing its off-road capabilities and resilience. From removing the front sway bar to installing frame sliders and BudBuilt skid plates, Brian provides invaluable, budget-friendly tips for DIY enthusiasts. Discover how practical modifications like cab mount adjustments and aftermarket canopies have transformed his truck into a reliable companion for rugged terrains. This chapter also delves into the importance of thorough research and consulting with experienced friends to make informed decisions about vehicle modifications.

Funding and planning are crucial aspects of any serious hobby, and Brian's story is no exception. Learn how selling an old Aluna bass boat financed most of his truck upgrades and gain insights into alternative funding methods. We explore the logistical challenges of receiving parts from various locations and emphasize the importance of involving your partner in expensive hobbies. As a special highlight, Brian shares his excitement about an upcoming rendezvous event, inviting listeners to join and share their thoughts. Tune in for an episode brimming with practical advice, inspirational stories, and a genuine passion for overlanding.

What happens when a daily driver becomes a dedicated Overland rig? Join us on this exciting episode of Outskirts Overland as I share the transformation of my truck following a significant accident. This shift has allowed me to make thrilling modifications, like seat deletes, and opened up countless possibilities for my Overland adventures. Hear all about my plans for the Big Iron Overland Rally and upcoming collaborations, such as an outdoor camping episode with Mr. Benji. Plus, don't miss my reflection on the unexpected success of our podcast and how it has unlocked new opportunities to test a variety of gear and modifications.

Are you looking for stronger and more stable mounts for your Overland setup? Discover my recent interior upgrade journey, focusing on the impressive Track Form mounts I installed. These mounts, recommended by a company after they heard my quest for better options, have proven their worth by being more durable than anything I've tried before. This episode also covers various Overlanding topics, from fitness accountability and truck configurations to the camaraderie within the community. Whether you’re a seasoned Overlander or just starting out, there are plenty of tips and insights for everyone.

Imagine the thrill of remote camping and the preparation needed to tackle extended trips! This episode dives into the beauty and complexities of Overlanding, including the trend of using American diesel trucks for off-road adventures. Hear personal stories from fellow enthusiasts, updates on vehicle builds, and upcoming camping plans. I also discuss the necessity of verifying equipment readiness, like testing diesel heaters before winter. Close out the episode with an update on my hectic content creation journey—balancing work, filming, editing, and spontaneous creativity—all while looking forward to next week's engaging chat with Boondock Haverlock about his stunning truck. Get ready for a fun, informative, and adventure-filled episode!

What if you could significantly improve your off-roading experience without breaking the bank? In this episode of Outskirts Overland, we promise to enhance your adventure with an in-depth review of Rough Country's M1 shocks and struts for lifted Tacomas. Discover why these budget-friendly shocks rival higher-end brands like Bilstein and Icons, and learn about essential vehicle modifications such as aftermarket upper control arms and a shackle flip kit. We also spotlight an upcoming community cleanup event organized by Toyota Trucks of Arkansas, showcasing our commitment to giving back to nature.

Ever wondered how different tires perform in challenging terrains? We've got you covered with a comprehensive comparison between Falcon Wildpeak and Kenda Cleaver RT tires. While Wildpeaks excel in snowy conditions, the Cleaver RTs dominate in mud and rocky environments. We also test the KMC 729 wheels, discussing their unique features and performance on the trail. Whether it's aggressive tread designs or the benefits of lighter wheels, our reviews offer invaluable insights for any off-road enthusiast looking to upgrade their gear.

But it's not all about the gear; it's about the camaraderie and spontaneous adventures that make our journeys unforgettable. From testing the WeBoost signal booster to preparing for a full marathon with my good friend Johnny, this episode is packed with personal anecdotes and inspiring stories. Join us as we explore the thrill of off-roading, the importance of friendship, and the joy of pushing our limits together. Tune in and be part of our adventure!

What if the best part of overlanding isn't the adventure, but the incredible community that comes with it? Join us on this episode of Outskirts Overland as we explore the hidden gem of the overlanding world: the supportive and collaborative network of fellow enthusiasts. We'll discuss the unmatched value of face-to-face connections formed at events, expos, and on the trails. Whether you're a newbie or a pro, you’ll discover practical tips and heartfelt stories on how to forge lasting friendships and build a network of like-minded adventurers.

We also dive into the importance of real-life interactions, especially with the season of expos like Big Iron and Rendezvous in the Ozarks just around the corner. These events provide fantastic opportunities to meet genuine outdoor explorers, see diverse setups, and engage in social activities that digital spaces simply can't offer. Our commitment to being approachable at these gatherings ensures that everyone has a meaningful and enriching experience filled with trail rides, engaging conversations, and new connections. Don’t miss out on how embracing the overlanding community can elevate your adventures and provide you with unforgettable experiences.

Ever wondered how to protect your off-road vehicle while tackling the unpredictable terrains of public lands? Join us as we explore the crucial topic of off-road vehicle insurance in our latest episode of Outskirts Overland. I share my personal journey through the complexities of securing the right coverage for adventures on county roads, forest service paths, and farm trails. Learn from my recent mishap on a challenging trail over the 4th of July weekend, where a lack of a spotter resulted in damage to my truck, underscoring the importance of having the proper insurance to avoid financial setbacks.

Dive into the often overlooked aspect of insurance for motorsport and off-road activities. We’ll discuss the nuances of specialized coverage, including the importance of glass protection for frequent off-roaders. Get practical advice through my experiences in the Mark Twain National Forest and the Ozarks, with stories that highlight the unpredictable nature of trails and the camaraderie in shared camping adventures. Plus, discover the significance of reliable communication in remote areas with technologies like Starlink or WeBoost, and how staying connected can enhance your outdoor escapades. This episode is packed with insights to help you strike the perfect balance between thrilling adventures and essential precautions.

Ever wondered how to transform your overland truck into a mobile command center without sacrificing functionality or comfort? Join us on Outskirts Overland as we kick off our 4th of July special with some festive plans and introduce you to Marvin, my spirited co-host who's always ready for an adventure. We’ll share the joys and challenges of setting up your vehicle for an epic overlanding journey, from managing multiple devices like radios and navigation tools to ensuring everything is within reach and doesn’t obstruct your view.

Planning your next off-road camping trip but don’t know where to start? This episode is packed with practical tips on meticulous trip preparation—from organizing your to-do lists and using pickup services to avoid crowded stores, to ensuring all your gear, including freeze-dried meals and power bank adapters, is ready to go. I'll discuss the advantages of using an iPad for navigation and share my own experience of helping a newcomer understand the intricacies of vehicle maintenance and preparation, ensuring you're all set for a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Tired of slow tire inflation ruining your off-roading vibe? We tackle the frustrations and solutions related to air compressors and tire inflation gear, exploring upgrades like efficient compressors and self-regulating tire deflators. Plus, with the 4th of July celebrations on the horizon, we dive into staying safe while having fun—think designated drivers and responsible festivities. Tune in for an episode that promises to enhance your overlanding experience while keeping safety front and center.

Adventure awaits at every turn! What happens when you face closed gates, unpredictable weather, and over 200 miles of off-road challenges? Join us on Outskirts Overland as we recount our exhilarating journey through the Buffalo River with friends. This episode is packed with tales of tackling the Ozarks' rugged terrain, making the most of offline maps, and navigating natural obstacles. We also discuss essential preparations for peak overlanding season, from protecting yourself against mosquitoes and ticks to managing moisture in the wild.

Ever wondered how a spontaneous Fourth of July camping trip could turn into an unforgettable adventure? Tune in as we share laughs and lessons from our trip with Johnny, Allie, and Corey. With no set plans and the unpredictability of nature, we faced heat, mud, and unexpected detours head-on. Hear about our truck setup evaluations, the joy of freeze-dried biscuits and gravy, and how a positive attitude and flexibility can make all the difference. This segment is a testament to the camaraderie and shared experiences that define true outdoor adventures.

Finally, let’s celebrate the excitement of a new Tacoma owner setting up his first rooftop tent. We share the enthusiasm and key tips for anyone new to overlanding, including gear essentials and the importance of staying hydrated. From recent trips to future plans, we encourage you to break free from the digital world and embrace the great outdoors. Whether you're camping, kayaking, or just enjoying a sunset, the message is clear: don't let life pass you by. Stay consistent, enjoy the longer summer days, and make the most of every opportunity to connect with nature.