In this episode, I catch up with the seasoned adventurer and YouTube content creator, Darwin on the Trail. Darwin shares insights into his journey from starting out with the Appalachian Trail to becoming a recognized figure in the hiking and outdoor community. We delve into his lifelong love of cycling and bike-packing, the struggles of balancing personal goals with relationships, and the evolution of his YouTube channel while remaining authentic in a changing digital landscape. Darwin also talks about his gear company, Evolved Supply Co., and the importance of creating gear based on real-world experience. Join us for this reflective and inspiring discussion that touches on adventure, creativity, and the pursuit of happiness.

-- Darwin's Links --

Evolved Supply Co.

Darwin's Website

Darwin's YouTube

-- My Links -- 
-- Free Outdoor Planner -- 
 ---Socials---
Instagram
YouTube 
TikTok 
 --- Gear Lists ---

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview01:46 Darwin's Passion for Cycling04:15 The Challenges and Rewards of Bike Packing07:48 Adventures and Mishaps on the Arizona Trail19:31 Training and Maintaining Fitness for Adventures28:49 Partnering for Low Back Relief29:15 Knees Over Toes Guy's Recommendations29:46 Hip Flexor and Low Back Issues30:06 David Goggins' Stretching Advice30:54 Recovery Methods and Tools32:18 Balancing Work and Recovery33:35 Nonstop Lifestyle and Ambitions34:45 Reflecting on Life and Priorities35:46 Slowing Down and Finding Balance42:19 Balancing Relationships and Adventures51:35 Adapting to New Challenges01:00:11 The Essence of Adventure01:05:54 Embracing New Adventures01:06:36 The Irony of Gear Reviews01:07:31 The Creative Struggle01:10:27 Passion for Storytelling01:13:33 Audience Expectations01:20:03 The Algorithm's Impact01:24:10 Authenticity in Reviews01:30:11 Navigating the YouTube Landscape01:39:17 Planning the Perfect Adventure01:39:31 Navigating the Overwhelming Choices of Gear01:40:08 Engaging with the Community01:40:43 The Shift in Audience Expectations01:41:26 Personal Gear Preferences and Experiences01:42:40 The Evolution of Gear Reviews01:49:35 Challenges of Running a Gear Company02:06:15 The Future of Authentic Content02:09:01 Where to Find More Content

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Tim and Renee, also known as the Thru Hikers, as they share their experiences with Fastest Known Time (FKT) attempts. We dive into the mental and physical challenges they faced on the Ozark Trail and the Oregon section of the PCT, their turnback moments, and vital lessons learned along the way. We also explore their food strategies, favorite gear, and even some remarkable survival stories from their journeys. Don't miss this inspiring episode as we explore the highs, lows, and everything in-between of their FKT pursuits.
-- Tim and Renee's Links -- 
Book
Instagram
TikTok
YouTube
-- My Links -- 
-- Free Outdoor Planner -- 
 ---Socials---
Instagram
YouTube 
TikTok 
 --- Gear Lists ---
01:26 Recent Adventures and Short Trips
02:46 Unique Experiences in Northeastern California 
04:26 Winter Camping Challenges and Lessons
09:41 Fastest Known Time (FKT) Attempts
12:30 Overcoming Turnback Moments
23:34 Food Strategies for High-Intensity Adventures
29:55 Discovering Salt Stick Tablets
30:37 Essential Gear for FKTs
32:17 Creative Problem Solving on the Trail
35:07 Mental and Physical Challenges
37:06 Lessons Learned from FKTs
41:13 Injuries and Training Insights
45:03 Promoting the Book and Final Thoughts