From the Appalachian Trail to the Pacific Crest and everything in between. Backpacker Radio is a show all about the wonderful world that is thru-hiking and long distance backpacking.
Co-hosts, Zach "Badger" Davis and Juliana "Chaunce" Chauncey muse on the backpacking life and the latest from the trail every other week. Topics include but are not limited to news, trail culture, interviews, gear, advice, and all you can eat buffets.
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Jeffrey James Binney on Being a Plus-Sized Ultrarunner, TikTok Fame, and the PCT
Monday, August 26, 2024 • Duration 02:20:57
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are at PCT Trail Days! Our guest today is Jeffrey James Binney, a modern-day renaissance man who is an award-winning filmmaker, motivational speaker, ultrarunning athlete, and PCT hiker. We learn all about Jeffrey's story, including how losing his mom at a young age inspired him to pursue endurance sports, what it's like for a gay vegetarian to grow up in a rural pig farm in the midwest, his entry into improv and stand-up comedy, how he went from not being able to run a city block to a 100-mile race, making uber-viral dance TikTok videos, his favorite moments from his PCT hike, and much more.
We wrap the show by grabbing the first hiker we found off the street here in Cascade Locks and forcing her to join us for segments and being blessed with an all-time trail hookup story in the process.
Zoleo: Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" for free device activation at zoleo.com.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "SNUGGLEBUG" for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns, and Griffin Haywood
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Lauren Cain, Luke Netjes, Matthew Kesterson, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
Zach Hiked the Weminuchoo Choo Loop (and His Biggest Backpacking Blunder Yet)
Monday, August 19, 2024 • Duration 01:41:22
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, Zach takes on the role of guest. This episode recaps his recent hike through the Weminuche Wilderness, a 40-mile loop he's coined the "Weminuchoo Choo Loop." It's bound to catch on. Zach gives a full overview of the hike, covering the distance, elevation gain, alternate route options, trail highlights, wildlife, and more. He also shares a story about perhaps his biggest backcountry blunder to date—an expensive mistake, and one he had the distinct pleasure of having a witness for. Additionally, Zach discusses some new gear he tested on this trip, including a piece that will forever change his water retrieval system.
The episode wraps up with sun protection tips for the backcountry, the triple crown of the easiest items to forget to pack for a backpacking trip, whether it's acceptable to put ketchup on a hot dog, and a listener's valuable tips about backpacking Patagonia's O-Circuit.
Zoleo: Use code "BACKPACKERRADIO" for free device activation at zoleo.com.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "SNUGGLEBUG" for 20% off shelters at gossamergear.com.
00:10:20 - Overview of Zach's original plans and adapted plans in the Weminuche
Katie "Oats" Houston on the Appalachian High Route, Lone Star Trail, and Breaking Out in the Outdoor Industry
Monday, June 17, 2024 • Duration 02:02:41
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Sawyer Products, we are joined by Katie "Oats" Houston. Oats is a solo thru-hiker, who's completed the AT, Colorado Trail, Lone Star Trail, and most importantly for today's recording, the 330-mile Appalachian High Route. We dive deep into the Appalachian High Route's details, including the standout sections, resupply strategy, the best months to hike it, standout stops in Asheville (where Katie is from), and much more. Katie also shares some tips for breaking out as a freelancer in the outdoor industry, which is especially relevant, as she is also a contributor for The Trek and formerly the head of our social media.
We wrap the show by teasing our next live podcast- hint, it's not in Denver, Badger has a hilarious and misfortunate wild animal encounter at my house, the triple crown of conversations you don't get to on trail, and a listener voicemail / tick PSA.
#169 | Kylie Yang on Ridgerunning on the AT, Working for the CDTC, and Giving Back through Trail Work
Monday, October 3, 2022 • Duration 02:10:41
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, guest co-host Steven Shattuck aka Twinkle and yours truly are joined by Kylie Yang. Kylie is a Field Programs Manager at the Continental Divide Trail Coalition, a thru-hiker, a former AT ridgerunner, and overall a wealth of knowledge regarding all things pertaining to the great outdoors. We chat about Kylie's foray into the world of thru-hiking, what being an Appalachian Trail ridgerunner looks like- including being called "an overly tattooed, hipster slut" by an angry hiker, and we learn all about her present-day role with the Continental Divide Trail Coalition and the challenges of getting volunteers to remote sections of the trail.
We wrap the show with a triple crown of conspiracies you maybe buy into a little, useful items you'll likely find in a hiker box, new gear that we've been digging over the last season or two, what hitchhiking on the AT really looks like, and much more.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "takelesstrekmore" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "ultralight10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
[divider]
Shoutout to our guest editor for this episode, Tina Mullen!
#168 | Section Hiking vs. Thru-Hiking: Defining Each Style, Benefits and Drawbacks, and Who They're For
Monday, September 26, 2022 • Duration 01:43:13
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are bringing you another panel episode. Today we are joined by Backpacker Radio regular, Clay Bonnyman Evans aka Pony to compare and contrast thru-hiking and section hiking. We go deep, focusing largely on the benefits of each of these styles of hiking, who they're for, what we have personally gained from them, and much more. If you're curious about whether you should hit the pause button on your life and take a half year to meander in the mountains, this episode will hopefully serve you a ton of value. And, as always when Pony is studio, this one is delightfully wild.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "backpackerradio" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Minus33: Use code "backpacker22" for 15% off at minus33.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "ultralight10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
00:05:03 - QOTD: What's the stupidest thing you've done this week?
#167 | Kraig Adams on Being a Professional Vlogger and International Trekking
Monday, September 19, 2022 • Duration 01:37:07
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Minus33, we are joined by Kraig Adams. Kraig has accumulated more than 700,000 YouTube subscribers while showcasing his adventures from around the world, including Mae Hong Son Loop in Thailand, Adirondack High Peaks, Tour Du Mont Blanc Loop in France, Santa Cruz Trek in Peru, Torres del Paine in Chile, Kesugi Ridge Trail in Alaska, Sawtooth Loop Trail in Idaho, just to name a few. We learn how Kraig got into the world of video blogging, how he's turned it into a full time profession, his favorite and least favorite hikes domestically and abroad, what advice he'd offer to aspiring worldly travelers, how and why he maintains a life of minimalism, and much more.
We wrap the show with a triple crown of things that you aren't superstitious about but may be a little-sticious about, a guide to edible berries along the PCT, and another update from MG!
Gossamer Gear: Use code "takelesstrekmore" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "ultralight10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
00:03:03 - QOTD: What's a sport that no matter the skill level, you don't find impressive at all?
00:07:23 -
#166 | Robbie Balenger, Plant-Based Ultra-Endurance Athlete, on the Colorado Crush: the Colorado Trail, All 58 14ers, and the Leadville Trail Series
Monday, September 12, 2022 • Duration 02:04:54
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Robbie Balenger. Robbie is a plant-based ultra-endurance athlete, with achievements including a run across the United States and a feat he dubbed the Colorado Crush which involves hiking the 485-mile Colorado Trail, summiting all 58 of Colorado's 14,000-ft peaks, and running the Leadville Trail Series- the marathon, the-50 mile race, and the 100-mile race...all of this in the span of 63 days! We of course go in-depth about these endurance undertakings, including how he manages his diet, his recovery, the highlights and lowlights from these adventures, the role his crew plays, and much more. You will walk away from this one feeling either very inspired or very lazy- and quite likely both.
We wrap the show with a triple crown of trees, some promising news on the Lyme disease vaccine front, we get another update from MG, and we share some of our favorite shorter thru-hikes for a listener.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "backpackerradio" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "ultralight10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
#165 | Pattie Gonia: All Things Drag Queen, Hiking in High Heels, and Advocacy for Inclusive Outdoors
Monday, September 5, 2022 • Duration 02:16:39
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Wyn Wiley, better known online as Pattie Gonia. Pattie is a "professional homosexual", environmentalist, and a drag queen. This conversation is fun and informative. We go deep learning all the fun nuances of the drag world, including what goes into a good tuck (who owns the title for the GOAT of tucking), the best drag songs, and the core components of a good drag performance. Pattie shares all the good work she's is doing with various outdoor organizations to improve representation in the outdoors. And of course we get a run down of what goes into being ultra-athletic in high heel boots.
We close the show with a triple crown of awkward places to run into an ex, a Q&A segment, and we cover if thru-hiking the PCT can give you a dumptruck ass.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "backpackerradio" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "ultralight10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
#164 | Danae and Olen Netteburg on Thru-Hiking with 5 Kids and Working as Doctors in Rural Africa
Monday, August 29, 2022 • Duration 02:00:50
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by The Netteburg family. Danae and Olen Netteburg, alongside their 5 children- ages ranging from 13 to 1, are currently thru-hiking the CDT. This is their second thru-hike in three years, after the family completed the Appalachian Trail in 2020. The Netteburg's story is one of a kind- both Danae and Olen are missionary doctors who run a 100-bed hospital in rural Chad. We go in-depth learning about how a family of seven manages on a trail as challenging as the CDT, their standout highs and lows from the AT, what life is like back in their home of Chad and the challenges of their work, and much more. The kiddos were also in and out of the studio for this one, so be prepared for the fun chaos that will ensue.
We wrap the show with a triple crown of things you put on a cracker, a fan follow up to Kathryn Miles' episode which paints a different picture of one of the suspects, and we opine on the movies most deserving of a sequel.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "backpackerradio" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Tanri: Use code "bpradio10" for 10% off at tanri.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "ultralight10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
00:05:10 - What movie do you most wish had a sequel?
#163 | Quinn Brett on Handcycling the Tour Divide and Maintaining an Active Lifestyle after a Paralyzing Climbing Fall
Monday, August 22, 2022 • Duration 01:59:53
In today's episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, we are joined by Quinn Brett. Quinn was a world-class climber prior to her 2017 fall in Yosemite left her paralyzed from the waist down. Since then, Quinn being the badass athlete that she is, has found new modes to adventure, having most recently completed the 2,500-mile Tour Divide on an adaptive handbike, which she did in just 25 days. We learn all about Quinn's accident, how her adventures, friendships, and life have changed since that fall, and we go in-depth about her advocacy work- how Quinn is fighting to improve recreational accessibility for other persons with disabilities.
We wrap the show with a Triple Crown of Countries You'd Live in if Deported from the US, a brief overview of some of the reasons we've fired Mara, and we opine on where Funyuns belong in the greater chip ranking.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "backpackerradio" for 15% off at gossamergear.com.
Enlightened Equipment: Use code "ultralight10" for 10% off Enlightened Equipment's Stock Revelation Quilt or Torrid Jacket at enlightenedequipment.com.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex and Misty with NavigatorsCrafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair Thirteen Adventures, Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, Sawyer Products, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, Tracy 'Trigger' Fawns
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Alex & Misty with Navigators Crafting, Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Austin Ford, Brad & Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Brent Stenberg, Bryan Alsop, Christopher Marshburn, Coach from Marion Outdoors, Dayne, Derek Koch, Eric Casper, Erik Hofmann, Gillian Daniels, Greg Knight, Greg McDaniel may he bring honor to his name, Hailey Buckingham, Liz Seger, Patrick Cianciolo, SPAM, Timothy Hahn, and Tracy "Trigger" Fawns.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: 12 Trees Farms, Bonnie Ackerman, David, Dcnerdlet, Emily Galusha, Jeanie, Jeanne Latshaw, Joann Menzer, Katharine Rudzitis, Keith Dobie Jr, Merle Watkins, Peter, and Ruth S.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac, Tracy "Trigger" Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac, Tracy "Trigger" Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac, Tracy "Trigger" Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.
Time stamps & Questions
00:05:19 - QOTD: What's something that you like less as you get older?
00:15:26 - Introducing Robbie
00:16:17 - When did you get into athletics and endurance sports?
00:19:23 - What is it about running that draws you in?
00:20:44 - Discussion about marathon strategies and breaking through the wall
00:22:48 - Discussion about food during running
00:24:02 - How did you prevent injury on your transcontinental run?
00:25:20 - Discussion about shoes
00:26:12 - Tell us about your plant-based diet.
00:30:42 - Discussion about alcohol
00:31:52 - What do you eat to get enough calories?
00:34:44 - How did you occupy your mind on your transcontinental run?
00:37:29 - Tell us about the Central Park Loop
00:39:55 - Discussion about backyard ultras
00:41:07 - What would you say your mental drive is?
00:43:29 - Discussion about training intensity and strategies
00:46:18 - Do you have any recurring injuries?
00:47:26 - Tell us about NuCalm
00:56:41 - What was the inspiration for the Colorado Crush?
00:58:05 - What lessons did you learn about setting up a good sponsorship model?
01:00:19 - What was the structure and order of the Colorado Crush?
01:01:34 - What made the Leadville 100 the most difficult event?
01:03:42 - How did you decide the timing?
01:04:41 - Has anyone told you they're interested in replicating the Colorado Crush?
01:05:02 - Fuck Marry Kill: the Leadville Trail Series, all the 14ers, and the Colorado Trail
01:05:40 - How did the Colorado Trail compare to your expectations?
01:07:13 - How do you compare/contrast road running and trail running?
01:09:48 - Any fun hallucination stories?
01:12:21 - What's your mentality while running at night?
01:14:30 - What lazy things do you love doing?
01:15:42 - What did you learn about yourself as a man?
01:18:22 - Is it unusual to have the height of your career start late?
01:19:14 - How was your mindspace as you started the 14ers?
01:21:06 - What were the logistics for getting to and up all the 14ers?
01:23:10 - Did you have any close weather calls?
01:24:33 - Tell us about your crew
01:26:23 - Is there anything you can't eat anymore?
01:27:37 - Anything else to share from the Leadville 100?
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac, Tracy "Trigger" Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.
00:04:56 - QOTD: What's the easiest meal of the day to eat healthfully?
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac, Tracy "Trigger" Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.
QOTD:
00:07:15 - Introducing the Netteburgs
00:08:15 - How did you end up on trail as a family?
00:10:15 - Tell us about being doctors in Chad!
00:13:08 - Can you compare practicing medicine in the US versus abroad?
00:15:20 - Can anything stress you out while thru-hiking?
00:18:12 - Tell us some crazy doctor stories.
00:21:01 - What are the kid's thoughts on the biggest differences between Chad and America?
00:22:10 - Hippo facts!
00:25:56 - What other scary animals do you deal with in Chad?
00:27:15 - What precautions do you take for mosquitos?
00:30:16 - What drives you to continue being doctors in Chad?
00:32:24 - How did you decide to hike the AT in 2020?
00:36:15 - Kids: what was your initial impression of the AT?
00:39:20 - Tell us about the timeline for starting the AT?
00:43:15 - Did you ever consider stopping the hike?
00:47:50 - What does a 6 person resupply/meal strategy look like?
00:49:15 - Are all the kids hiking themselves?
00:51:30 - What are some parenting hacks to keep the kids happy while hiking?
00:54:42 - Is it a welcome distraction or additional burden to keep the kids happy?
00:55:35 - How do you handle it when they're grumpy?
00:57:44 - What are each of their hiking personas?
01:00:15 - At what age do they stay reliably on trail?
01:00:50 - What's the extent of the gear that the kids carry?
01:03:35 - What packs do you use?
01:05:12 - Roughly speaking, what's your typical pace?
01:08:33 - Discussion about feeding the kids
01:11:10 - What are the other person's most and least endearing hiking traits?
01:15:02 - Did you get a lot of criticism in 2020?
01:15:49 - How would you compare the challenge of the AT and the CDT?
01:17:29 - Discussion about potty training and hiking with a baby
01:20:31 - How do you manage sleep deprivation?
01:21:41 - How do you manage to stay happy partners?
01:23:19 - Tell us about managing the monsoons and lightning on the CDT.
01:27:40 - Discussion about using umbrellas
01:28:50 - Tell us about your spreadsheets!
01:34:51 - If you could go back to day 0 on the AT, what advice would you give yourself?
01:36:29 - How do the kids adjust when you return to your busy work schedules?
01:38:27 - How much would you say thru-hiking is for you two, the kids, or the family?
01:39:17 - Do you think the kids have the thru-hiking itch now?
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac, Tracy "Trigger" Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.
A super big thank you to our Chuck Norris Award winner(s) from Patreon: Andrew, Austen McDaniel, Jason Lawrence, Christopher Marshburn, Sawyer Products, Brad and Blair (Thirteen Adventures), Patrick Cianciolo, Paul Packman Sealy, Matt Soukup, Jason Snailer, Greg Mac, Tracy "Trigger" Fawns, Mike Poisel, and Kristina Diaz.
A big thank you to our Cinnamon Connection Champions from Patreon: Liz Seger, Cynthia Voth, Emily Brown, Dcnerdlet, Jeff LaFranier, Peter Ellenberg, Jacob Northrup, Peter Leven.
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