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Caught in summer's sweltering grip, the last thing on most campers' minds is cold weather preparation. Yet that's precisely the opportunity hidden in these hot July days – a chance to get ahead of winter while everyone else is simply trying to stay cool.

This episode cuts through conventional wisdom to deliver practical advice about winter camping prep that needs to happen now, not later. I share my three-year experience with diesel heaters, including my summer maintenance routine of running it for three consecutive days at maximum level to burn off soot and ensure reliability. Despite common horror stories about budget heaters, my completely unmodified VIVOR diesel heater has performed flawlessly through multiple seasons – proof that sometimes simple systems suffice.

The current global supply chain presents unprecedented challenges for overlanders. Most budget diesel heaters come from China, along with waterproof materials and merino wool from overseas manufacturers. Ordering these essential items now puts you in a position where extended shipping times won't impact your winter adventures. Plus, you'll avoid competing with holiday shoppers when cold weather gear becomes sought-after. I recommend checking vehicle systems too – water in differentials or steering components can freeze and cause serious problems when temperatures plummet.

Don't wait until you're shivering to discover your gear isn't ready. Test your equipment, place orders early, and organize your systems now while there's no pressure. Winter camping requires preparation, but with proper planning, you can enjoy comfortable cold-weather adventures while others scramble. As I always say: be ahead of the curve, not behind it.

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When summer hits and temperatures soar, rooftop tent camping can quickly become unbearable. That scorching tent surface and compressed mattress had been making my weekend adventures less comfortable than they should be—until I discovered two surprisingly simple solutions that transformed my experience.

The first breakthrough came unexpectedly. After merely mentioning my plan to wrap my tent top in white vinyl, a friend with a wrap shop offered to do it immediately. For just $100, he transformed my black tent top into a heat-reflecting white surface. The difference was immediate and dramatic. Where I previously couldn't even touch the tent surface without burning my hand, I now found it completely comfortable even after hours in direct sunlight. This "cheat code" for summer camping requires no maintenance and doesn't add significant weight—just glorious comfort in hot weather.

Perhaps even more satisfying was solving my mattress dilemma. After a year of heavy use, my original tent mattress had compressed beyond comfort. Rather than spending hundreds on a replacement or dealing with problematic air mattresses, I crafted a custom solution combining memory foam with closed-cell camping pads. The entire build cost under $80 using materials from Walmart, fits my tent's exact dimensions, and provides better support than the original ever did. The project required only basic measuring and cutting skills—no special expertise needed.

This experience reinforced what I love most about overlanding—the continuous process of creative problem-solving. Whether you're a weekend warrior or full-time traveler, these simple, affordable upgrades can dramatically improve your camping comfort. What modifications have transformed your overlanding experience? Share your insights or ask questions about these tent upgrades—I'm always looking for new ideas to enhance life on the road.

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Extreme weather is reshaping our outdoor experiences in unprecedented ways. Witness firsthand how torrential downpours—three inches in just 90 minutes—have transformed familiar trails into unrecognizable crevices, making weekend adventures both challenging and unpredictably beautiful.

Strangely, despite the popularity of overlanding on social media, the trails were remarkably empty throughout the entire weekend. Only three other off-road vehicles appeared across two states and multiple camping locations. This disconnect between perception and reality raises interesting questions about where everyone is going and what's happening in the outdoor community right now.

What truly defines an overlander? Is it the destinations they reach, the vehicle they drive, or something else entirely? Perhaps it's simpler than we make it—just camping out of a vehicle you've modified to suit your needs. The essence of the experience isn't found in fancy equipment or specific locations but in the fundamental connection with nature and the satisfaction of self-reliance.

The weekend embraced simplicity: sandwich supplies for meals, cooling off in the river, and evenings around a campfire talking into the early hours. This minimalist approach created space for deeper enjoyment without the distractions of complex setups or itineraries. Even a brief side trip to Eureka Springs offered historical perspective on how people have been seeking healing and connection in these same landscapes for generations.

Looking ahead to practical modifications, vinyl-wrapping a dark rooftop tent white could significantly reduce interior temperatures—testing shows differences of 20-35 degrees. These simple adaptations may become increasingly important as weather patterns continue to intensify.

Check out the exciting partnership with 23Zero, featuring shared content on their Instagram page. Follow along as we navigate this changing outdoor landscape together, finding new ways to adapt while honoring the fundamental spirit of adventure.

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Freedom rings through this pre-Fourth of July episode as I reflect on what makes Independence Day my favorite holiday. Unlike celebrations that come with obligations, the Fourth embodies pure American liberty—everyone gets the day off, families gather outdoors, we grill delicious food, and yes, we legally blow stuff up simply because we can. As both a proud veteran and outdoor enthusiast, I cherish how this holiday brings people together through shared appreciation of freedom rather than guilt or obligation.

Speaking of freedom, I'm excited to share that Outskirts apparel is coming soon! Many of you have asked how to support the podcast, and this will be your opportunity to purchase hats, shirts, hoodies, and more featuring various Outskirts designs. Everything will be straightforward—fair prices, no complicated discount codes, just quality gear for those who want it. Consider it my solution to supporting the podcast while getting something tangible in return.

The conversation takes a thoughtful turn toward public land ethics and the sometimes complicated dynamics between different users. From the controversy surrounding people selling GPS coordinates through subscriptions to debates about generator usage in campgrounds, we navigate the delicate balance between individual liberty and community respect. My stance remains consistent: public land belongs to everyone, and the responsibility falls on us individually to create the experience we want rather than expecting others to conform to our preferences. If you don't like generators, find spots generators can't reach. If you prefer solitude, seek places off the beaten path. True freedom means respecting others' right to enjoy these spaces in their own way, even when it differs from our preferences.

Planning your summer adventures? Remember to use code "outskirts" for 10% off tickets to Overland of America (September 12-14), where I'll be hanging out and hope to meet many of you. However you celebrate this Independence Day—whether camping, grilling, or shooting fireworks until dawn—embrace the liberty that makes this country special. After all, that's what makes America's public lands so extraordinary: they belong to all of us.

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Reliable communication in the backcountry can be a lifesaver, but with advancing smartphone technology, many adventurers are wondering if dedicated satellite devices are still necessary. After years of recommending satellite communicators like the Zoleo, I decided to put my iPhone 16's satellite features to the test on a recent camping trip.

The results were definitive - and not what many YouTube influencers would have you believe. Despite claims that smartphones have made dedicated satellite communicators obsolete, my real-world experience proved otherwise. The iPhone required awkward positioning to maintain a satellite connection, couldn't share my location easily, and struggled with basic messaging. Meanwhile, my trusty Zoleo connects quickly, maintains a stable connection, and provides seamless two-way communication even in the most remote locations. For serious backcountry explorers, the $199 investment in a dedicated device easily outperforms the limited satellite capabilities of a $1,200 smartphone.

Beyond gear discussions, I share thoughts on maintaining the proper mindset during outdoor emergencies. When things go wrong - whether it's a stuck vehicle, mechanical failure, or other unexpected challenge - freaking out only makes matters worse. My philosophy of "control what you can and cope with what you can't" has helped me navigate countless difficult situations. Taking a breath, sleeping on problems when possible, and approaching challenges with a clear head can prevent minor inconveniences from becoming dangerous emergencies. This mindset, coupled with proper preparation and equipment, forms the foundation of backcountry safety. Whether you're dreaming of Alaska adventures (like I am) or tackling challenging terrain closer to home, these principles will serve you well on your journey.

Ready to enhance your overlanding experience? Join me at Overland of America and save 10% on day passes with code OUTSKIRTS10. Let's connect and share our adventures under the open sky!

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The secret that nobody talks about in the overlanding world is just how expensive serious vehicle builds actually are. In this candid episode, I pull back the curtain on the true costs behind those Instagram-worthy rigs you see online.

My Tacoma represents a $147,000 investment—$36,000 for the truck itself and over $100,000 in modifications, accessories, and equipment built up over years. This isn't unusual in the overlanding community; most YouTube creators you follow likely have $150,000+ in their builds, but rarely discuss these figures openly.

I recently completed a DIY dual battery system housed in a Milwaukee Packout case. Despite doing all the work myself, the components alone cost approximately $1,000. This highlights an important distinction: DIY doesn't mean cheap—it simply means you did the work yourself. Quality components like proper marine-grade wiring, BCDC chargers, and appropriate connectors all add up quickly.

My approach to vehicle modification is heavily influenced by contingency planning. I deliberately design systems to be quickly removable if the truck is damaged or totaled. When you have a house's worth of value invested in a vehicle, protecting that investment becomes paramount. That's why I favor modular systems connected through Anderson plugs and housed in removable containers whenever possible.

Through extensive trial and error, I've committed to an all-12V electrical system without inverters. Why? Because inverters waste power, reducing your effective battery capacity. Temperature considerations also played a major role in my decision to use AGM deep-cycle batteries rather than lithium, as they perform more reliably in extreme conditions.

If you're considering starting your own overland build, approach it with eyes wide open. Understand that creating a truly capable vehicle represents a substantial commitment. Prioritize modifications based on your specific needs, and remember that while the costs are significant, the experiences and self-sufficiency these vehicles provide are what make the investment worthwhile for those committed to the lifestyle.

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After a brief hiatus from behind the microphone, I'm finally back with updates on where I've been and what's ahead. Life got busy juggling college kids, camping trips, the truck build, work, and everything in between – sometimes we all just need a minute to breathe. While daily episodes might not return, this marks the beginning of a more sustainable podcasting rhythm moving forward.

The break wasn't idle time. I've been up late nights finalizing my Redarc dual battery system in the truck, learning new interview software, and preparing for upcoming events. The truck now boasts a complete power setup with strategic redundancies like 40-amp breakers instead of fuses – lessons learned from years of vehicle builds. These seemingly small details make all the difference between a successful adventure and being stranded with a blown fuse miles from nowhere.

The big news? You'll find me at Overland of America in the creator corral alongside some familiar faces from the community. Use code OUTSKIRTS10 to save 10% on weekend passes and primitive camping (though not on RV or cabin options). This event strikes the perfect balance for families with amenities like pools and restaurants while offering genuine off-road experiences on private trails. Look for friends from Backwards Adventure Junkies, Midwest Adventure Outfitters, Baker Overland, and more. Whether you're a seasoned overlander or just curious about the lifestyle, this gathering focuses on people and experiences rather than commercial displays. Come say hello – I'd love to hit some trails together and talk about your setup!

Ready to reconnect with the community? Join me at Overland of America, follow along as Fourth of July content drops (my favorite holiday as a Marine Corps veteran), or simply get outside this weekend – shoes off, grass between your toes. The podcast might have paused, but the adventures never stopped.

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Maintaining outdoor gear is often an afterthought, but as our conversation with Heidi from Nikwax reveals, proper care can transform your adventure experience and save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on replacement equipment.

With sixteen years at Nikwax under her belt, Heidi brings a wealth of knowledge about keeping technical fabrics performing at their best. The company's commitment to environmental responsibility stands out—they've been PFAS-free since 1977, decades before most manufacturers considered eliminating these harmful chemicals. This early start gave Nikwax time to perfect formulations that both protect gear and the planet.

We explore why household detergents are the enemy of technical fabrics. That expensive Gore-Tex jacket or rain shell might be failing not because of poor quality, but because regular laundry detergent leaves behind residues that cause fabrics to absorb water rather than repel it. Nikwax's Tech Wash cleans without compromising waterproof properties, while their soon-to-be-released Stain Scrub tackles tough grime without damaging protective coatings.

The conversation tackles specialized care for various materials—from waterproofing tents and awnings to treating merino wool and leather. Did you know UV exposure can reduce tent fabric strength by almost half after just one week in summer sun? Or that proper leather treatment can extend the life of work gloves and boots for years while maintaining their structure and support?

For overlanders who meticulously maintain their vehicles but neglect personal gear, this episode is a wake-up call. The same attention to maintenance that keeps your rig running should extend to your clothing and equipment—especially when challenging weather conditions can turn an adventure into a miserable experience if gear fails.

Take your outdoor experience to the next level by learning how proper care can make even budget-friendly gear perform like premium equipment. Your adventure deserves gear that lasts, and this episode shows you exactly how to make that happen.

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Life slips by in the blink of an eye. Have you ever wondered if you're filling your days with distractions rather than meaning?

When listeners messaged about missing the podcast and their workdays becoming more boring without it, it sparked deeper thoughts about how we spend our precious time. Many of us sleepwalk through life, trying to emulate others who themselves are playing characters—creating layers of inauthenticity that separate us from genuine fulfillment. But what if we approached each day with critical thought about who we truly are and what we actually want?

Time moves relentlessly forward. We'll never get back today's moments, conversations, or opportunities. Using the metaphor of arriving at "pearly gates," would you say "I did it all" or "I wish I had done this"? Everyone we love will eventually leave this world, and we never know when our final moments with them might be. No technology—not even AI or digital memories—can recreate the feeling of being truly present with those we care about. Are you camping because you love nature, or because you want likes on Instagram? Are you building your truck for the journey, or for others' approval? Neither is inherently wrong, but knowing your true intentions changes everything.

The greatest gift we can offer future generations isn't financial wealth but demonstrating how to live authentically and purposefully. Money is ultimately arbitrary, but time—those hugs, conversations, and genuine connections—those are irreplaceable. While the podcast hiatus continues, this message serves as a reminder to pay attention to what's truly important right in front of you. Your life is happening now. Are you fully present for it?

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The unexpected weight of words. That's what today's raw, unscripted episode confronts as I find myself at a crossroads with Outskirts Overland. What started as a straightforward platform to discuss overlanding without commercial influence has grown into something that carries unanticipated emotional consequences.

I've always been direct—when I say something, I mean exactly what I say, nothing more and nothing less. There's no subtext, no veiled criticism of friends or fellow creators, just literal statements and observations. Yet as listenership has grown, so have the misinterpretations and assumed intentions behind my words. When casual observations about industry trends are perceived as personal attacks, when straightforward statements trigger emotional responses never intended, I'm forced to question the sustainability of continuing.

Unlike many podcasts, Outskirts Overland has remained independent, without sponsors or commercial influence. That independence has allowed for authentic conversations about overlanding without the filter of brand partnerships—something I believe the community needs. But this approach means I personally fund everything, investing time, energy, and financial resources into content that's increasingly becoming a source of unexpected stress.

After much reflection, I've decided to take a break—not ending the podcast permanently, but stepping back to gain perspective. The existing episodes will remain available, and I'll be attending Overland of America where I look forward to connecting with listeners in person. During this hiatus, I'll be considering whether there's a path forward that honors both my authentic voice and the community this podcast was created to serve.

If you've appreciated the unfiltered approach of Outskirts Overland, grab yourself a sweet tea (it is National Iced Tea Day, after all), revisit favorite episodes, and share your thoughts with me when our paths cross. Sometimes the most honest thing we can do is acknowledge when something isn't working as intended and have the courage to reassess. Thank you for listening, and I hope to bring you more authentic content when the time is right.