Send us a text

On this episode of Overland Weekly, we sit down with Justin Wages (Grass Valley, CA) for a powerful, wide-ranging conversation that blends life, recovery, and off-road obsession. Justin shares his journey from a nature-filled childhood and street/drag racing days, through a life-altering cancer battle (colorectal, liver resection, lung lobe removal), to rediscovering the outdoors via mountain biking and, ultimately, overlanding.

We dig into his unique path across platforms—GMC Canyon lessons learned, Nissan Xterra Titan-swap and Armada/Y62 Patrol insights, Titan XD towing horses, and why he finally jumped into a Land Cruiser 80. Now working with the team at Dissent Off-Road, Justin unpacks what he’s learned about armor, wheel offset, portals, A-TRAC vs lockers, and why a solid axle 80 on 37s made him a believer.

If you love techy trail talk, wheeling stories, and honest inspiration about the healing power of the outdoors, this one’s for you.

Learn more about Justin's story:
https://placerlandtrust.org/placer-land-trust-part-of-team-effort-to-beat-cancer-for-one-employee/
https://share.google/UVAzqA0tokOUvzkrv

Send us a text

Overland Weekly Episode 30. Davey sits down with Matt and Scott from Portal Pros a year after their first appearance to cover everything they’ve learned building bolt-on portals in public: road miles, failures that made the product better, a wild Mickey’s Hot Tub rollover, production status, pricing, serviceability, upcoming vehicle support, and more. Plus, rapid-fire questions to wrap it up.

Highlights:
- New YouTube segment: Overland Weekly Trail Cuts (raw wheeling, no fluff)
- Portal Pros’ year in review: events, testing, and social growth
- Jeep build glow-up: 40s, shocks, steering, and why it finally drives “disgustingly” well
- Mickey’s Hot Tub rollover: what happened, what broke, how they wheeled out the same day
- 13,000+ road miles on portals: early issues and design fixes
- Gear evolution: 0.75" → 1" → 1.25" gears and why they’re sticking with it
- Output flange redesign after cumulative abuse (stronger geometry + alloy steel)
- Production status: pre-orders, deposits, shipping timeline
- Price/value: $15,000 for all four corners (axle shafts + hardware included)
- Serviceability: trail-friendly design, minimal hand tools, “dead hub” limp mode
- Modularity: move your portals from one platform to another with adapter sets
- Manufacturing & QC: vetted suppliers now, in-house machining later
- CTIS: sealing challenges, dual-separated air/oil path progress
- Future platforms under evaluation (Toyota TNGA/6th-gen 4Runner, older Jeeps/Toyotas, Super Duty D60)

Chapters:
00:00:00 Intro + Episode 30
00:01:16 New segment: Overland Weekly Trail Cuts
00:01:42 Portal Pros return: where we left off last year
00:07:24 Company Jeep upgrades: 40s, shocks, steering, spacer lift, highway manners
00:10:37 Mickey’s Hot Tub rollover: the full story
00:17:22 Road miles on portals (13k+) and early highway issues fixed
00:26:12 Boxes in production now
00:28:10 First customer deliveries target
00:28:23 Serviceability: trail teardown, small tool list, dead-hub limp mode
00:31:58 Trail repair philosophy: “wheelers designing for wheelers”
00:37:00 Price & value: $15k all-in for 4 corners (lift + regear + load reduction)
00:41:04 One-day install vs. piecemeal builds
00:50:25 Building a business: marketing, web, content, email, and sales chops
00:55:46 Customer-facing learning curve
00:56:10 Team dynamic: complementary personalities, shared background
00:58:54 Setbacks that led to better designs (on-trail failures → locks, snap rings)
01:01:50 Pre-orders: dates, deposits, timelines
01:06:33 Rapid Fire: night runs, camp comfort, best mod, dream destinations, rigs to borrow

Guests:
- Matt and Scott, Portal Pros

Host:
- Davey, Overland Weekly

Thanks for watching! If you enjoyed this episode, drop a comment with the next platform you want to see portals for, and what trail you’d take them on first.

Send us a text

Welcome back to another thrilling episode of Overland Weekly! In our 29th adventure, we reunite with the fascinating Kai He from Tinkerer's Adventure. Dive deep into the heart of the off-road community as we discuss new vehicles, evolving storylines, and the intriguing decision-making process behind Kai's latest vehicle choice.

In this episode, we explore:
- The journey from considering an LX570 to purchasing the unique regular cab short-bed Tundra.
- The ins and outs of vehicle modifications, we revisit the skinny vs. wide tire debate, and V35A engine drama.
- Kai's experiences in the off-road community, including collaborations with manufacturers and insights from Toyota and Lexus press events.
-How Kai was able to secure a sit down interview with the GX550 Chief Engineer

Join us as we uncover the balance between passion-driven decisions and business strategies in the world of full-time YouTubing. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or new to the scene, this episode promises to deliver insights, laughs, and a deeper understanding of the vehicles and personalities driving the overlanding world.

🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with our latest adventures!

👉 Follow Kai's Tinkerer's Adventure:  @TinkerersAdventure  
👉 Follow Overland Weekly on IG: instagram.com/@overlandweekly


OffRoading #OverlandWeekly #TinkerersAdventure #ToyotaTundra #LX570 #OverlandingCommunity #VehicleMods #ToyotaEvents #Podcast

Send us a text

Welcome back to Overland Weekly, where this week we dive into the heart of the overlanding community in Episode 28. Join host Davey as he sits down with Matt and Caley Brueck, the passionate minds behind Roam4Lo, a thriving off-road organization based in northeast Georgia.

In this episode, we uncover the unique stories and experiences that make overlanding so special. From the early days of racing go-karts to hosting drift events, Matt and Caley share their journey into the world of off-roading and how they turned their passion into a thriving community and business.

Discover the tales of epic guided expeditions across the country, the camaraderie of the overland community, and the importance of preserving trails for future generations. Learn about the Terra Trophy Rally—a challenging endurance event that combines navigation, strategy, and rugged terrain for an unforgettable adventure.

Whether you're an experienced overlander or new to the scene, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and exciting stories from the trails. Don't miss out on this in-depth conversation with two trailblazers in the overland community.

Send us a text

Exploring the World of Nissan in the Off-Road Community
Welcome to episode 27 of Overland Weekly! Join host Davey and his guests—Chase McFresh, Ethan Murphy, Nick Dozier, and Jordan Fernandes—as they dive deep into the world of Nissan four-wheel drives. This episode takes you on a journey through the history and unique features of Nissan's iconic off-road vehicles.

From the origins of Nissan's off-road journey with the Datsun 220 to modern favorites like the Frontier and Titan, we explore what sets Nissan apart in the off-road community. Discover the camaraderie among Nissan enthusiasts and the innovative modifications like the Titan Swap that elevate the capabilities of these vehicles. 

Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or new to the scene, this episode offers insights into the love for Nissan vehicles, the challenges of finding parts, and the joy of being part of a niche community. Plus, get a glimpse into upcoming adventures and events that our guests are excited about.

Don't miss out on the fun anecdotes, technical discussions, and the passion that drives the Nissan off-road community. Hit play and join the conversation!

🌟 Topics Covered:
- History of Nissan's off-road vehicles
- Unique features of Nissan four-wheel drives
- The Titan Swap explained
- Personal stories from Nissan enthusiasts
- Upcoming adventures and events

🔗 Follow Our Guests on Instagram for more adventures!
Chase McFresh
https://www.instagram.com/chase_mcfresh/
Ethan Murphy
https://www.instagram.com/nashpro4x/
Nick Dozier
https://www.instagram.com/overlandnashville/
Jordan Fernandes
https://www.instagram.com/overland_xterra_615/ 

👉 Tune in now! Subscribe to Overland Weekly for more episodes exploring the people, places, and events that make up the off-road community.

Send us a text

The Great Smoky Mountain Trail Ride, affectionately known as "G Smitter," has evolved into what many consider the premier Toyota off-road gathering on the East Coast. With a record-breaking 301 registered vehicles this year, the event showcases the extraordinary community that forms when passionate enthusiasts come together on the challenging trails of Windrock Park.

Through candid conversations with trail leaders, volunteers, and participants, this episode captures the essence of what makes G Smitter special. You'll hear from Team George, whose members travel from different states to guide beginners through the trails; Aubrey from Firestone, experiencing his first time as a trail leader; Patrick Perry sharing insights as both sponsor and participant; and longtime attendees reflecting on why they return year after year.

Beyond the technical challenges and impressive vehicles, G Smitter's heart lies in its inclusivity. The event welcomes all experience levels, from stock 4x4s to portal-equipped rigs with 37-inch tires. Nearly 30 volunteer trail leaders ensure everyone finds appropriate challenges while staying safe. As George Dominguez notes, "When I get home, I end up talking more about the experiences I've had at the event than the wheeling or the adventure."

The stories shared—from Jake's adventures in "Large Marge" to Lee allowing friends to drive his supercharged 200-Series (with occasionally costly results)—paint a vivid picture of an event where mechanical mishaps become badges of honor and lasting memories.

Whether you're contemplating attending your first off-road event or you're a seasoned wheeler looking to connect with a welcoming community, this episode offers a window into why G Smitter has earned its reputation as a must-attend gathering where the vehicles bring people together, but the friendships keep them coming back.

Send us a text

Adventure Wheelers East | Overland Weekly Episode 25

Welcome back to Overland Weekly for our milestone 25th episode! Join your host, Davey, as he dives into an exhilarating conversation with special guests Jack Sloan from Jack Off Road and Robert Keller. Celebrate the journey of Adventure Wheelers East as we discuss the origins, evolution, and epic tales from their off-road adventures.

In this episode, we explore the excitement of reaching episode 25, relive unforgettable moments from the Ultimate Adventure, and get an inside look at the Adventure Wheeler's East crew. Learn how Jack and Robert took inspiration from their experiences to create their unique wheeling events that attract enthusiasts from all over.

This year's theme, "Banjos, Bourbon, and Bush," delivered thrilling trails and camaraderie as the team navigated through challenging terrains in the heart of the East Coast. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or new to the  community, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and inspiration for your next adventure.

🔗 Connect with Us:
- Follow Adventure Wheelers East on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awe_adventure_wheelers_east/
- Check out Jack from Jack Off Road for more off-roading content: https://www.instagram.com/jackfromjackoffroad/
- Discover Robert Keller's adventures: https://www.instagram.com/rkeller51/

https://www.instagram.com/overlandweekly/

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to Overland Weekly for more off-roading stories and tips. Hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes!

OverlandWeekly #AdventureWheelersEast #OffRoading #UltimateAdventure #Overlanding #4x4 #OffRoadLife #Wheeling

Send us a text

Welcome to another exciting episode of Overland Weekly! In this special episode, join host Davey as he takes the show on the road to the world-famous BleepinJeep headquarters. Dive into an engaging conversation with Matt from BleepinJeep as they explore the fascinating journey of how BleepinJeep came to be. Discover the origins of the channel, from humble beginnings of filming how-to videos on replacing ball joints to becoming a sensation in the off-road community.

In this candid discussion, Matt shares insights into the evolution of the channel, the challenges faced, and the creative process behind some of their most popular builds. Learn about the importance of community, the balance between storytelling and technical content, and the impact of collaborations with other content creators.

Join us as we venture into the world of off-road adventures, explore the growth of the BleepinJeep community, and delve into the exciting events hosted by BleepinJeep, including the Monkey Ball Crawl and Bleeper Heap Safari. Whether you're a seasoned off-road enthusiast or new to the world of overland adventures, this episode offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the passion and dedication that drives the BleepinJeep team.

Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with all the latest content from Overland Weekly. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Send us a text

In this episode of Overland Weekly, we sit down with Christian Hazel — off-road editor, builder, storyteller, and one of the driving forces behind Ultimate Adventure for more than two decades. From his early days as a musician in Boston to his move into automotive journalism at Peterson’s 4-Wheel & Off-Road, Christian shares how UA was born, what makes it unlike any other trail run, and how it's evolved over the years.

We dig into the behind-the-scenes logistics of running a 25-rig trail caravan across America, why rig diversity matters, and how the group known as “the Cronies” became essential to keeping things rolling. Christian also reflects on the recent transition away from corporate media to his own platform — Unreal Adventure — where he and co-producer Trent McGee are finally free to tell the full story the way it deserves to be told.

There’s plenty of great banter, rapid-fire questions, and trail stories in here for anyone who loves wheeling, wrenching, and what it means to build a real off-road community.

Send us a text

This is the audio portion of our YouTube Show

🚙 Overland Weekly Ep. 22 - Hanging Out with Ian Johnson at Big Tire Garage! 🛠️🔥
Welcome back to Overland Weekly! This time, we're stepping out of the studio and heading to Big Tire Garage to sit down with Ian Johnson, one of the biggest names in off-road fabrication! If you've been around the off-road scene in the last two decades, you know Ian from Extreme 4x4, Extreme Off-Road, Power Block, Power Nation, Monster Garage, Four Wheeler and much more.
🎙️ In this episode, we cover:
✅ Ian’s journey from high school shop teacher to off-road TV personality
✅ How he got his start in fabrication and transitioned to TV
✅ The place for "Television" in today's landscape.
✅ The business side of Show Business
✅ Behind-the-scenes of Big Tire Garage and his current projects
✅ The best budget buy available today.
If you love off-roading, fabrication, and deep-dive conversations with legends in the industry, this episode is a must-watch!
📢 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Overland Weekly content!
🚀 Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more off-road action!