While the team is at Trail Hero X, this episode of The Trailhead dives into a question every off-roader eventually faces: are you building your rig to match your trails, or choosing trails to match your build? JD, Pope & Randi (JemAndTheMisfit), Bryan (Beatrice JKU the Lunchbox), and Mike (JKTrlFnder) share how their vehicle choices, upgrades, and driving styles are shaped by the terrain they love. From high-clearance Broncos to hydro-assist setups and one-ton swaps, the crew breaks down how their wheeling preferences drive their builds—and how their builds open up new off-road possibilities. If you've ever debated tire size, axle strength, or whether your rig is too nice to wheel, this is the episode for you.

📍Trails and Destinations

• Sand Hollow State Park, Utah

• Behind the Rocks, Moab, Utah

• Top of the World, Moab, Utah

🛠️ Gear and Tools

• Bronco Badlands Sasquatch Package

• Fox 2.5 Coilovers

• Rockford Fosgate Speakers

• Stinger Electronics Horizon Head Unit

• PSC Hydraulic Assist Steering

• RCV Performance Axles

🚙 Community Shoutouts

• Bryan: Beatrice JKU the Lunchbox

• JD: MeAndMyYellowJK

• Mike: JKTrlFnder

• Pope & Randi: JemandtheMisfit

🌎 Advocacy & Conservation

• BlueRibbon Coalition

📰 News Topics

• Ford Bronco Rebates and Dealer Discounts

• Tariffs and Jeep’s Pricing Pressure

📅 Events and Resources

• Trail Hero X 2025

• Easter Jeep Safari (EJS) 2025

• Jeep Beach 2025

📞 Get involved!

• Leave us a voicemail! Call 719-408-0132 to be featured on the show.

• Write a review! We’re only 9 reviews away from a giveaway at 30 reviews — Write one here

• Follow us on Instagram! @thetrailheadpodcast

• Visit the Site: www.thetrailheadnetwork.com

• Trailhead Gear (Shirts & More): Shop Here

• Discounts for Trailheads!

  • Tyri Offroad Lights — Use code TRAILHEAD15 for 15% off

In this quick Trail Hero X kickoff episode, JD, Pope & Randi, and Alyssa rally together to prep for the big journey ahead. With Trail Hero Expeditions right around the corner, the crew reflects on how far the podcast has come—101 episodes deep—and shares last-minute gear checks, travel logistics, and some friendly banter about new rigs and tire drama. From overlanding in Broncos to wheeling in Toyotas and Jeeps, this trip marks the first time the full team heads out together. It’s a short but heartfelt behind-the-scenes check-in before the crew hits the trail for one of their biggest adventures yet.

📍Trails and Destinations

• Sand Hollow State Park, Utah

🛠️ Gear and Tools

• Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac Tires (discontinued)

• BFGoodrich KO3 Tires

• Toyo Open Country R/T Trail Tires

🚙 Community Shoutouts

• Alyssa: HoldMyCoffee_AZ

• JD: MeAndMyYellowJK

• Pope & Randi: JemandtheMisfit

🌎 Advocacy & Conservation

• BlueRibbon Coalition

• Utah Public Lands Alliance (UPLA)

📅 Events and Resources

• Trail Hero X 2025

📞 Get involved!

• Leave us a voicemail! Call 719-408-0132 to be featured on the show.

• Write a review! We’re only 9 reviews away from a giveaway at 30 reviews — Write one here

• Follow us on Instagram! @thetrailheadpodcast

• Visit the Site: www.thetrailheadnetwork.com

• Trailhead Gear (Shirts & More): Shop Here

• Discounts for Trailheads!

  • Tyri Offroad Lights — Use code TRAILHEAD15 for 15% off

Join us for a milestone episode—our 100th—where JD talks again with Ben Burr, Executive Director of the BlueRibbon Coalition, to break down the first 100 days of the new administration. They discuss crucial updates on monument designations, ongoing legal challenges, and critical policy shifts impacting public land access. Ben gives updates from the front lines, including insights on the newly established Chuckwalla National Monument and ongoing battles in Glen Canyon. Get the latest on litigation efforts, advocacy wins, and what's coming next in the fight for public lands.

📍 Trails and Destinations

• Chuckwalla National Monument, California

• Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah

• Henry Mountains, Utah

• San Rafael Swell, Utah

🛠️ Gear and Tools

• BlueRibbon Coalition Guidebook

🌎 Advocacy & Conservation

• BlueRibbon Coalition

• Utah Public Lands Alliance (UPLA)

• BlueRibbon Coalition Sweepstakes – Enter to Win

📰 News Topics

• Chuckwalla National Monument Lawsuit

• Antiquities Act Information

📅 Events and Resources

• Congressional Review Act Information

📞 Get involved!

• Leave us a voicemail! Call 719-408-0132 to be featured on the show.

• Write a review! We’re only 9 reviews away from a giveaway at 30 reviews — Write one here

• Follow us on Instagram! @thetrailheadpodcast

• Visit the Site: www.thetrailheadnetwork.com

• Trailhead Gear (Shirts & More): https://thetrailheadnetwork.com/shop/

• Discounts for Trailheads!

  • Tyri Offroad Lights — Use code TRAILHEAD15 for 15% off

This episode is all about the crew—what’s new, what’s broken, and what’s coming next. JD, Pope & Randi (JemAndTheMisfit), Bryan (Beatrice JKU the Lunchbox), and Mike (JKTrlFnder) catch up and share everything from exciting Bronco purchases and hydro steering installs to the reality of aging Jeeps and fried motors. Bryan talks about adding a Ford F-350 Lariat tow rig to the lineup, while JD celebrates a long-overdue clockspring fix. Randi confesses her Bronco is definitely not staying stock, and Mike drops news about trussed axles and Vernal test runs. It’s a full roundtable of shop talk, road prep, and off-road storytelling with the Trailhead crew.

📍Trails and Destinations

• Sand Hollow, Utah

• Behind the Rocks, Moab, Utah

• Top of the World, Utah

🛠️ Gear and Tools

• Bronco Badlands Sasquatch Package

• Fox 2.5 Coilovers

• Rockford Fosgate Speakers

• Stinger Electronics Horizon Head Unit

• PSC Hydraulic Assist Steering

• RCV Performance Axles

🚙 Community Shoutouts

• Bryan: Beatrice JKU the Lunchbox

• JD: MeAndMyYellowJK

• Mike: JKTrlFnder

• Pope & Randi: JemandtheMisfit

🌎 Advocacy & Conservation

• BlueRibbon Coalition

📰 News Topics

• Ford Bronco Rebates and Dealer Discounts

• Tariffs and Jeep’s Pricing Pressure

📅 Events and Resources

• Trail Hero X 2025

• Easter Jeep Safari (EJS) 2025

• Jeep Beach 2025

📞 Get involved!

• Leave us a voicemail! Call 719-408-0132 to be featured on the show.

• Write a review! We’re only 9 reviews away from a giveaway at 30 reviews — Write one here

• Follow us on Instagram! @thetrailheadpodcast

• Visit the Site: www.thetrailheadnetwork.com

• Trailhead Gear (Shirts & More): Shop Here

• Discounts for Trailheads!

  • Tyri Offroad Lights — Use code TRAILHEAD15 for 15% off

🎧 Podcast Show Notes

Summary

JD is joined by Bryan (Beatrice JKU the Lunchbox), Mike (JKTrlFnder), Nathan the unpaid intern aka MudhornGladiator, and Angie (Purple Haze JKU) in this high-energy, heart-filled episode of The Trailhead. With Easter Jeep Safari just around the corner, the crew swaps build updates, road trip plans, and favorite Jeep colors—including the return of Mojito Green. Bryan previews the upcoming Memorial Run on Behind the Rocks, while Angie shares her vision of turning Purple Haze into a full-blown buggy. Plus, Nathan reveals he and his family are officially heading to Trail Hero X, and JD confirms the podcast team will be embedded in the event this May. Trail prep, wheeling strategy, and a bit of emotional reflection all mix together in one unforgettable episode.

📍Trails and Destinations

• Behind the Rocks, Moab, Utah

• Kitzmiller, Maryland (Badge of Honor)

• Drummond Island, Michigan

🛠️ Gear and Tools

• Motobilt Drop Down Tailgate

• Rockford Fosgate Speakers

• Stinger Head Units

• Rust-Oleum Automotive Paint

• Krash Fab Rock Sliders

• Rock Hard 4x4 Cages

• PSC Hydraulic Assist Steering

🚙 Community Shoutouts

• Angie (Purple Haze JKU)

• Bryan: Beatrice JKU the Lunchbox

• JD: MeAndMyYellowJK

• Mike: JKTrlFnder

• Nathan the unpaid intern aka MudhornGladiator

🌎 Advocacy & Conservation

• BlueRibbon Coalition

📰 News Topics

• Mojito Green Returns for 2025 Wranglers & Gladiators

• Trail Hero X Announcement

📅 Events and Resources

• Trail Hero X 2025

• Easter Jeep Safari (EJS) 2025

• Jeep Beach 2025

📞 Get involved!

• Leave us a voicemail! Call 719-408-0132 to be featured on the show.

• Write a review! We’re only 9 reviews away from a giveaway at 30 reviews — Write one here

• Follow us on Instagram! @thetrailheadpodcast

• Visit the Site: www.thetrailheadnetwork.com

• Trailhead Gear (Shirts & More): https://thetrailheadnetwork.com/shop/

• Discounts for Trailheads!

  • Tyri Offroad Lights — Use code TRAILHEAD15 for 15% off

In this episode of The Trailhead, JD and Alyssa welcome Jessica Heeg and Jessi Puffenbarger, the powerhouse duo behind Jess² ReRouting, a new team competing in this year’s 10th Anniversary Rebelle Rally. These two seasoned drivers break down what the Rebelle is all about—8 days of off-road competition with no GPS, just maps, compasses, and pure grit. Hear how a random post turned into a rock-solid partnership, what training looks like in Johnson Valley, and why Jessi’s ultra-built JLU is perfect for the job. Plus, the ladies open up about family, trail philosophy, and prepping like pros. If you’re curious about what it takes to go from off-road fan to Rebelle contender, this is your episode.

📍 Trails and Destinations

• Johnson Valley OHV

• Poughkeepsie Gulch, Colorado

• Glamis Sand Dunes

🔧 Gear and Tools

• Currie Extreme Axles

• Rebel Recon Coilovers

• King Shocks

• Alpine Control Arms

• Spot Satellite Messenger

🚙 Community Shoutouts

• JD: MeAndMyYellowJK

• Alyssa: HoldMyCoffee_AZ

• Jessi Puffenbarger: @arctrooper.jl

• Jessica Heeg: @pinkstarjess

🌎 Advocacy & Conservation

• BlueRibbon Coalition

📰 News Topics

• Rebelle Rally 10-Year Anniversary Overview

• Women in Off-Road: Growth and Representation

• Spot Satellite Saves in Backcountry

🗓 Events & Resources

• Rebelle Rally

• Jess² ReRouting Website

• Rebelle Rally Team Profiles

📞 Get involved!

• Leave us a voicemail! Call 719-408-0132 to be featured on the show.

• Write a review! Help us hit our next milestone by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts

• Follow us on Instagram! @TheTrailheadPodcast

• Find us at The Trailhead Network! www.thetrailheadnetwork.com

• Get Show Swag! Trailhead Gear Store

• Discounts for Trailheads!

  • Tyri Offroad Lights (Use Code TRAILHEAD15 for 15% Off)

In this episode of The Trailhead, JD welcomes Mike Malone and Brantley Ping from the Midwest Krawlers Off-Road Club. They discuss the club’s origins, off-road adventures, and community events. From the impressive Snow Squad initiative that helps first responders during severe weather to the club’s diverse off-roading activities, Mike and Brantley share stories of wheeling in the Midwest and beyond. Discover how the club grew from humble beginnings to becoming a well-known community staple, fostering both fun and safety. Tune in for stories of Jeep builds, off-road park adventures, and the dedication to helping those in need.

📍 Trails and Destinations

• Kansas Rocks Recreation Park

• Southern Missouri Off-Road Ranch (SMORR)

• Land Between the Lakes (LBL)

• Windrock Park

• Hot Springs Off-Road Park

• Imogene Pass, Colorado

• Poughkeepsie Gulch, Colorado

• Backway to Crown King, Arizona

• Moonlight Racing Off-Road Park

• Tuttle Creek Off-Road Park

• Rays Rocks

🔧 Gear and Tools

• Tyri Offroad Lights (Use Code TRAILHEAD15 for 15% Off)

🚙 Community Shoutouts

• Mike Malone & Brantley Ping: Midwest Krawlers Off-Road Club

🌎 Advocacy & Conservation

• BlueRibbon Coalition

📰 News Topics

• Midwest Crawlers’ Snow Squad Helps First Responders

📅 Events & Resources

• Jeep Jamboree USA

• Sunflower Event (Midwest Crawlers)

📞 Get involved!

• Leave us a voicemail! Call 719-408-0132 to be featured on the show.

• Write a review! We’re only 9 reviews away from a giveaway at 30 reviews.

• Follow us on Instagram! @TheTrailheadPodcast

• Discounts for Trailheads!

  • Tyri Offroad Lights (Use Code TRAILHEAD15 for 15% Off)

This Spotlights episode of The Trailhead features a chat with Steve Bogue and Monty Durango, two longtime Jeep enthusiasts from Illinois who love wheeling and exploring. JD talks with Steve and Monty about their off-roading experiences, from building their Jeeps to their favorite trails in Colorado and Moab. They also discuss the challenges of finding good wheeling spots in the Midwest, their strategies for overcoming obstacles on the trails, and their plans for future adventures, including a trip to the Northeast. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned trailblazer, this episode is packed with relatable stories, practical insights, and inspiration for your next adventure.

📍 Trails and Destinations

• Rampart Range Road, Colorado

• Onion Creek, Moab, Utah

• Gemini Bridges, Moab, Utah

• Porcupine Rim, Moab, Utah

• Corkscrew Gulch, Colorado

• Picture Frame Arch, Moab, Utah

• Hurrah Pass, Moab, Utah

• Trans Wisconsin Adventure Trail, Wisconsin

• NEBDR (Northeast Backcountry Discovery Route)

• Redbird State Recreation Area, Indiana

🔧 Gear and Tools

• Teraflex 3.5" Lift

• Bilstein 5160 Reservoir Shocks

• G2 Axle and Gear Chromoly Axle Shafts

• JE Reel Driveshafts

• Old Man Emu Lift

• Garmin InReach

🚙 Community Shoutouts

• JD: MeAndMyYellowJK

• Steve Bogue: Alpha JK on Instagram

• Monty Durango: Monty's Jeep Adventures

• Virgil: Northbound Expeditions

🌎 Advocacy & Conservation

• BlueRibbon Coalition

📅 Events & Resources

• Trail Hero

• King of the Hammers

• Easter Jeep Safari (EJS)

📞 Get Involved!

• Leave us a voicemail! Call 719-408-0132 to be featured on the show.

• Write a review! We’re only 9 reviews away from a giveaway at 30 reviews.

• Follow us on Instagram! @TheTrailheadPodcast

JD is joined by Alyssa (HoldMyCoffee_AZ), Bryan (Beatrice JKU), Kerry (TrailTraveler), and Mike (JKTrlFnder) for a packed episode all about overlanding —what works, what breaks, and what you really need to get started. From long-range fuel tanks to gazelle tents, the crew shares their setups, tips, and lessons learned the hard way. JD dishes on recent Jeep repairs, Alyssa preps for a spontaneous Moab trip, and Kerry explains why he now owns two dedicated rigs for totally different wheeling needs. Plus, JD teases a big Trailhead road trip that will be The Trailhead event of the year. Whether you're a die-hard crawler or a wannabe overlander, this episode has something for everyone.

📍Trails and Destinations

• Eagle Rock

• Switzerland Trail

• Schofield Pass

• Lead King Basin

• Crystal Mill

• San Rafael Swell

🔧 Gear and Tools

• Tyri Offroad Lights (Use Code TRAILHEAD15 for 15% Off)

• Gazelle Tent

• Long Range America Fuel Tank for Gladiator

• XPed Sleeping Pads

• Lost Horizon Airsoft Pads

🚙 Community Shoutouts

• Alyssa: HoldMyCoffee_AZ

• JD: MeAndMyYellowJK

• Kerry Garrison the Trail Traveler: TrailTraveler

• Mike: JKTrlFnder

• Sarah "Kitten Bear": @kitten.bear (photographer mentioned in episode)

🌎 Advocacy & Conservation

• BlueRibbon Coalition

📰 News Topics

• Core Conversations #3 – Episode 89 featuring Marcus Trusty (hopeful look at recent trail access wins)

• BLM Route Closures in Utah – BlueRibbon Coalition Opposition

📅 Events and Resources

• Easter Jeep Safari 2025

• Overland Expo Events

• Trailhead Network Patreon

📞 Get involved!

• Leave us a voicemail! Call 719-408-0132 to be featured on the show.

• Write a review! We’re only 9 reviews away from a giveaway at 30 reviews: Apple Podcasts Page

• Follow us on Instagram! @TheTrailheadPodcast

• Discounts for Trailheads!

  • Tyri Offroad Lights – Use Code TRAILHEAD15

In this episode of The Trailhead, JD sits down with Nathan—the unpaid intern and the show’s most dedicated voicemailer—for his official on-air debut. Broadcasting from Pennsylvania, Nathan opens up about his unique entry into the off-road world, beginning with a lifted Renegade, getting hooked at the Bantam Jeep Festival, and ultimately landing a pumpkin-orange Gladiator. They talk trail carnage, insurance surprises, and a terrifying vehicle fire that could have gone much worse. From sliders to Scrapple, this one's packed with humor, insight, and the kind of storytelling that reminds us why we love our listeners, and listeners turned guests.

📍 Trails and Destinations

• Ben Franklin Range, Pennsylvania
• Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA), Pennsylvania

🔧 Gear and Tools

• Teraflex 1.5” Lift Kit
• Atturo Trail Blade Tires
• Rock Hard 4x4 Frame-Mounted Sliders
• Automotive Fire Extinguishers – First Alert

🚙 Community Shoutouts

• JD: MeAndMyYellowJK – https://www.instagram.com/me_and_my_yellow_jk/
• Nathan the unpaid intern aka MudhornGladiator – https://www.instagram.com/mudhorn_gladiator

🌎 Advocacy & Conservation

• BlueRibbon Coalition

📅 Events and Resources

• Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival

📞 Get involved!

• Leave us a voicemail! Call 719-408-0132 to be featured on the show.
• Write a review! We’re only 9 reviews away from a giveaway at 30 reviews.
• Follow us on Instagram! @thetrailheadpodcast
• Discounts for Trailheads!