Dalton and Bryan visit Reno Nevada for their summer tradeshow and catch up with one of their favorite brands, Livsn. Abby Hollis, Director of Product and Sustainability chats with us about Livsn's approach to sustainability, their recent B Corp certification, and looking forward with Livsn product design. Learn more about Livsn and their brand initiatives, and what makes them such an amazing brand.

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

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Dalton and Bryan take a walk down memory lane in debating, what are the best 3 states along the Appalachian Trail? There are no rules in this great debate, all things can be considered including length, vistas, hostels, angels, food, shelters, or even privies. See how our picks stack up with your experiences, and perhaps find out what the greatest state along the AT is!

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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Chris Broughton has worked as a first responder as a paramedic, firefighter, search and rescue worker, disaster relief worker, animal welfare worker, and in a anti-poaching unit. Chris will share some of his experiences, passions, along with what brought him to this path of service. We'll explore the importance of wilderness first aid training on your adventures and share some stories from his time in the field. Lastly, we'll make Chris fill out our first ever MAD LIBS the SAR edition.

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

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Bryan sits down with Rudy Schieldknecht to discuss the great American road trip. We'll discuss what makes a good road trip, what are some stories from the road, and some favorite memories made. While we may have different experiences we both come to the same conclusion; it's about the journey, not the destination. Join us as we banter about turning up the volume, rolling the windows down, and the great open road.

Need a road trip playlist? Both Rudy and Bryan made their own for you to enjoy here:

Bryan: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/56u4A9ORskfKsLQ3wGwAfG?si=680572ab6e5d4c90

Rudy: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0wIewVwjbrjwPyvvuClyBN?si=1eaf5e2b9c8f4198

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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Dalton "Cast Iron" Spurlin has done over 800 miles southbound on the Continental Divide Trail. He joins us as our first ever remote guest on the podcast to tell us about his journey thus far. We'll talk about learning lessons, his pace, and counting calories on what will be part one of a continuing series as we follow Dalton on his CDT thru-hike attempt.

Sponsorship provided by Nemo:

Visit https://roadsriversandtrails.com and use code "CAPTAIN" for 15% all Nemo for a limited time. Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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At 81 Jene Galvin isn't slowing down one bit. A longtime friend of RRT, Jene sits down with us to discuss his time as a volunteer ranger in Lake Clark, Alaska, his secret to staying active into his 80's, and his transition to ultralight backpacking. Jene has inspired many though his journalism and storytelling, his new message; Getting older? Then speed up!

Sponsorship provided by Roads Rivers and Trails:

https://roadsriversandtrails.com/

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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In this episode we run the gamut with a long time friend and partner in the outdoor industry, Heath Rowland. We'll dive into Heath's passions in the outdoors, his business; Ground Up Sales, and his work with the Southeast Climbers Coalition. We'll sip some bourbon, play some games, and enjoy some classic banter. Come on the journey with us as we explore climbing in the Winds and Katahdin, and a friend fueled frenzy of a game called "Did Heath Say It?".

Learn More:

SCC Conservation Legacy Program

Ground Up Sales

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

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In this episode Bryan and Dalton discuss the upcoming GOA Connect tradeshow, one of 2 major tradeshows they attend. They talk about how they buy gear and bigger conversations with brands that guide their business. Take a unique look into the business of specialty outdoor retail.

A special thank you to our sponsor, the one and only Tire King. Be sure to check out RRT river clean up events here.

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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Do you count pack weight by pounds, ounces, or grams? Bryan and Dalton have a different perspective when it comes to pack weight and try to argue their points in this new episode. While there may not always be a clear winner, their perspectives may shine a light on how you'd like to build out your kit.

Thank you to our sponsor Osprey. Take advantage of a special deal to get a free hydration bladder with a pack purchase of $100 or more. Use coupon code "STRAPITON". ⁠Shop here⁠

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

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RRT'ers Bryan, Emily, and Joe all spent a week in Puerto Rico with family soaking in the culture, enjoying the food, and experiencing totally unique adventures. Bryan recounts the trip including hiking in El Yunque, paddling in the Bioluminescence, and walking the streets of San Juan.

Quick episode links:

Kayak Puerto Rico

Flavors of San Juan

Thank you to our sponsor Osprey. Take advantage of a special deal to get a free hydration bladder with a pack purchase of $100 or more. Use coupon code "STRAPITON". Shop here

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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Dalton spent a week in Scotland with a small group of independent retailers from around the globe, all sponsored by Rab and Gore-Tex. During that time he attended product clinics and a Mountaineering course up steep ridges from the Glenmore Lodge. We'll recount his experience and play another game of "False Summits" the Scotland Edition.

Huge thanks to Rab for the opportunity and making the most badass mountain gear out there: SHOP

More information on the Glenmore Lodge: HERE

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

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Welcome to 10 minute trip reports, where we share quick details from our adventures to give you quick and concise inspiration and information. We hope to open your eyes to new places and give you some quick tips to making it happen.

In this TMTR Emma and Rudy guest host to tell us about the Mount Cammerer loop in the Great Smoky Mountains. Find out more about this two night backpacking adventure, listen in!

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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Dalton and Bryan totally nerd out on their favorite gear from this year. This podcast takes a look at some new and exciting gear, the reasons why we love it, and why it matters to you. This podcast is all about highlighting some of our favorite new pieces including some killer items from Nemo, Oboz, Rab, and more. This duo puts backpacking gear to the test and has seen and used a lot through the years. Take a listen and get some insight into the industry while maybe finding your next great piece for the gear closet.

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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Nancy Ball from Summit Trek and Travel joins Backcountry Banter. Nancy is an accomplished entrepreneur and writer. She is author of “How to Poop in the Woods”, she is a trip leader with the Sierra Club and wrote the curriculum for the Miami chapter's backpacking school, she is the owner of Summit Trek and Travel a local and international guide service who also operates the Summit Sisters backpacking school, a school dedicated to empowering women to be independent in the outdoors.

We talk about her book, her experiences in guiding, and her draw to the outdoors. We also challenge Nancy to a game of "True Confessions", listen in and see how it goes!

Thank you to our sponsor ⁠⁠NEMO⁠⁠. You can use coupon code "CAPTAIN" to take 15% off any ⁠⁠NEMO ⁠⁠for a limited time only. Use the link above to shop RRT's selection of NEMO products. NEMO leads the industry in innovation, performance, and sustainability. NEMO, 20,000 leagues above the rest.

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠@RRT45150⁠⁠

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RRT spends hundreds of hours every year in the quest for the very best equipment, footwear, and clothing. We meet with brands pre-production and about a year from product delivery to our door. In special cases, we get prototypes to take on trail and test before ever placing our orders. We literally summit mountains to assure that we bring in an assortment of specialty gear that is right for you our customer, and the breadth of adventures you will take it on. In this podcast we'll talk about our favorites and the most innovative gear for 2024.

Shop our ⁠Innovative Gear of the Year 2024⁠

Thank you to our sponsor ⁠NEMO⁠. You can use coupon code "CAPTAIN" to take 15% off any ⁠NEMO ⁠for a limited time only. Use the link above to shop RRT's selection of NEMO products. NEMO leads the industry in innovation, performance, and sustainability. NEMO, 20,000 leagues above the rest.

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠@RRT45150⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠@RRT50

Have you or someone you love been impacted by Springer Fever? Bryan and Dalton talk about what is Springer Fever, who does it infect, and why? Your draw to the Appalachian Trail and other outdoor experiences is curable, and you're not alone. Join us for a Second Date Update, some unique podcast sponsors, and a conversation on that unexplainable desire to head to Springer Mountain, GA every Spring. ⁠Click here for Springer Fever Merch⁠ As always, you can check out RRT and our mission, or shop at: ⁠roadsriversandtrails.com⁠⁠ References: The Trek American Psychological Association Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠@RRT45150⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠

Dalton and Bryan continue their conversation on cold weather trekking. In this episode they tackle clothing and the perfect layering system, how to pack your kit, and what other changes to expect in your gear assortment. Bryan challenges Dalton to a game of "False Summits" where we promise you'll learn about destinations you've never heard of before!

Thank you to this week's sponsor Hillsound Equipment. You can check out some of Hillsounds gear and use code "UPRIGHT" for 20% off for a limited time at ⁠roadsriversandtrails.com⁠

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better.

Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠

YouTube: ⁠⁠@RRT45150⁠

Facebook: ⁠@RRTrails⁠

Bryan and Dalton recount some of their cold weather trips in the backcountry and share some of their tips and tricks to making the best of it! Dalton was surprised with games like "How Low Can You Go" and "Bad Weather or Bad Gear?" while the two also discussed a warm sleeping set up and the dangers of winter travel.

Thank you to this week's sponsor Hillsound Equipment. You can check out some of Hillsounds gear and use code "UPRIGHT" for 20% off for a limited time at roadsriversandtrails.com

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow and toss a bunch of stars on us like it was a Mario Party. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating.

Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠@RRTrails

YouTube: ⁠@RRT45150

Facebook: @RRTrails

As we enter digital immortality with Backcountry Banter we want to start by introducing ourselves. We'll introduce our hosts; Bryan and Dalton, our company RRT, and the goals we have with this podcast.

We hope to make Backcountry Banter your go-to podcast for outdoor adventure tips, tricks, and stories! Hosts Bryan Wolf and Dalton Spurlin each have trekked thousands of miles including tackling long distance treks like the Appalachian Trail. Professionally the duo works to equip, educate, and prepare other people for their adventures, with a combined two decades of specialty service in the outdoor industry. In this podcast they'll share what they've learned along the way and enable curious minds to make the leap to bigger and better adventures outside. Join us for a unique lens to the outdoors with guests from the industry.

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow and toss a bunch of stars on us like it was a Mario Party. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Follow us on Instagram: @RRTrails

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Surprise, Cast Iron completed his CDT thru-hike! We let Dalton acclimate back to life off the trail and the desert dust settle before catching up for the 3rd and final episode about his CDT hike. In this episode we find out about some of Dalton's favorite trail stories, his favorite and least favorite moments. We answer pressing questions like, "how much sushi can a thru-hiker eat?" and dive deep into the CDT experience. Don't miss this incredible conclusion. If you missed the first two segments, head back to season one and learn more about thru-hiking the CDT.

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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Dalton "Cast Iron" Spurlin has done over 1600 miles southbound on the Continental Divide Trail. He joins us remotely to tell us about his journey thus far. We talk to Dalton about the state by state challenges, the changing weather, trail towns, and more. Listen in to part two of this continuing series as we follow Dalton on his CDT thru-hike attempt.

Sponsorship provided by Fillo's. Go to fillos.com or stop by RRT to try their Walking Tamales. Fillo's walking tamales, tamales time anytime! Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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We sit down with THE Mr. Fabulous in front of a live studio audience recording. This is an instant favorite as we had the opportunity to interview Derick Lugo about his book "The Unlikely Thru-Hiker", about his many hiking adventures, and his future forays into a new book about hiking the CDT. Derick is a hilarious storyteller and takes us on a pretty wild ride. Listen in as Derick shares some stories and secrets that he's never shared before.

You can follow Derick Lugo here:Derick on Instagram

Dericklugo.com

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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Thank you to our friend⁠ Noah Smith⁠ for the new intro music, check him out on Spotify!

We're back! Season 2 of Backcountry Banter is back and better than ever. Mom let us buy a second microphone, and we added some sweet intro music from our friendNoah Smith. We've got some great episodes headed your way, say subscribe now to hear the latest.

In this episode we sit down with Emily White. Emily is co-owner of Roads Rivers and Trails and trip planner extraordinaire. Emily is building an impressive international resume including hut to hut trips in Iceland, New Zealand, Switzerland, and Italy. Emily has hiked the Alta Via 1 twice. We sit down to hear more about the Italian Dolomites and planning the perfect trek on the Alta Via. Listen in to gather some pack tricks and tips and try your luck at a game of "Alta Vino".

Emily' preferred guides:Cicerone Guides

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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We're joined by Joe Motz, a local business founder, long distance traveler, and community steward in everything he does. Joe has built a sustainable community at the Motz Group; a Evergreen certified company that proves their commitment to people, values, and practices. Joe  started Motz Moves an initiative for physical inspiration, but also a force for good with it's philanthropic missions.

Joe’s "Paddle for a Purpose" endeavor, is a 3,000 mile paddling journey that is working to raise funds and awareness for The Bridge Adaptive. An organization dedicated to increase awareness and promote opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate in adaptive sports and recreation in order to improve their quality of life. Bryan sits down with Joe to hear about his ambitious goals and bumps along the way. Joe is currently 2,300 miles into the journey and takes a break to sit down for a little banter.

Learn More:

⁠Motz Moves⁠

⁠The Bridge Adaptive⁠

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

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In what may be my favorite conversation yet, I catch up with a good friend, Mandela Echefu. An immigrant from Nigeria, accomplished professional, and entrepreneur. Mandela started (at the time) the 3rd black owned outdoor retailer, Wheelzup in Cumberland, MD in 2021. Mandela shares his origin story, his passion for the outdoors, for mentorship, and for representation in the space. Let's put on some Celine Dion and dive into this open and candid take on the outdoor industry.

Disclosure: there are audio issues with this podcast. We believe in genuine conversations and did not want to try and recreate any of this. We believe the content is exactly the story we were hoping to share so please bear with us.

Special shout out to our sponsor The Bookmatters in downtown Milford, OH. Check out Mandela's new pick; "Man's Quest for Meaning" or any other top titles at The Bookmatters.

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow.Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

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Visit us online at ⁠RoadsRiversandTrails.com

In this episode Bryan sits down with Woody DePerna of J&H Outdoors in Lexington Kentucky. Woody has spent 4 decades in the footwear industry, helping tens of thousands of people to better understand their feet and matching them with the best product for their journey. We'll talk about his experience, changes in the industry over the years, and challenges that we face in specialty outdoors.

Thank you to our sponsor Oboz. Dedicated to the highest social and environmental standards and B-Corp certified, Oboz remains true to the trail. For some of the best technical outdoor footwear checkout Oboz at RRT, J&H, or your specialty outdoor store.

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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Visit us online at RoadsRiversandTrails.com

Joe Solomon, the founder of Kayaking 4 a Cause, author, and long distance paddler joins the banter to talk about his newest adventure. Joe will soon depart for the Great American Loop, an over 6,000 mile paddling journey. Join us as we catch up with an old friend, and find out more about this paddling expedition.

Find and Follow Joe at: https://linktr.ee/kayaking4acause

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@RRTrails⁠⁠

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Facebook: ⁠⁠@RRT50

Dalton flips the script on this one and puts Bryan in the hot seat. We talk about RRT's journey to becoming a B Corp, what it means, why we did it, and some things you should consider. What is the community of B Corps? From over 10,000 worldwide or narrowed down to the 12+ in the Cincinnati region, we'll discuss the purpose driven movement.

Find a B

Check out the BIA

Like what you hear? We'd love if you gave us a follow. Hit those three dots on our podcast profile page and give us a rating. Podcast ratings are like overnights in a tent, the more stars the better. Follow us on our social platforms:

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