Will Cockrell joins the podcast to discuss his recently published book detailing the history of Mount Everest, his perspective on the draw of mountaineering, and the connection between suffering and achievement. Will also explains the need to tell the full story of Everest, as well as the misconceptions and negative narratives surrounding the mountain. He challenges the idea of who deserves to climb Everest and questions the romanticism and judgment associated with mountaineering. Our conversation covers various themes related to climbing Everest, including the issue of discounting different approaches, the individualized nature of climbing, the perspective of seasoned climbers, the perception of Everest as spoiled, the reality of the Sherpa role, the misunderstanding of the Sherpa culture, the monetization of Everest, and the importance of seeking the whole Everest story. Will shares insights from his book, reflecting on the state of the industry and the motivations of climbers and explores the relationship between Western climbers and Sherpas, highlighting the positive changes in recent years. Finally, we dive into the challenges of waste management and the future of Everest, emphasizing the importance of stewardship and the understanding of different perspectives. Show Notes and Links Introductions Early Years and Pursuit of Guiding Specializing in Mo The Draw of Mountaineering The Connection Between Suffering and Achievement The Comfort of the Wilderness The Need for a Book on Guiding on Everest The Counter Narrative to the Negative Perception of Everest Questioning Who Deserves to Be on Everest The Romanticism and Judgment of Mountaineering The Perception of Crowding on Everest The Difficulty of Defining Who Deserves to Climb Everest The Individualized Nature of Climbing Everest The Perspective of Seasoned Everest Climbers The Reality of the Sherpa Role The Monetization of Everest The Importance of Seeking the Whole Story Reflections on the Everest Industry The State of the Everest Industry The Impact of Tourism on Everest The Experience at Everest Base Camp The Dilemma of Camp 4 Balancing Conservation and Access The Future of Everest Opportunities for Professional Climbers Will's book Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Brad Brooks joins the podcast to compare notes on our recent backpacking trips with our kids and discuss the importance of exposing children to the outdoors. We share our experiences and challenges while planning and executing our trips, emphasizing the value of involving children in the decision-making process and building their confidence in doing hard things. We also discuss the unique benefits of backpacking, such as disconnecting from technology and experiencing raw, uncurated adventures. We also discuss Argali’s new lineup of tents, their design, what makes these shelters unique, and Argali’s philosophy of constantly seeking improvement and innovation in gear design. Brad dives into educating me on the materials used in the tent designs and the pros and cons of each. Show Notes and Links: Introduction and Catching Up Planning and Preparing for Backpacking with Kids The Challenges and Rewards of Backpacking with Kids Involving Kids in the Planning Process Building Confidence and Creating Lasting Memories The Future of Outdoor Experiences Conclusion and Final Thoughts The Design and Functionality of the Absaroka TP Tent Polyester vs Nylon: The Debate in Tent Materials Innovation and Thinking Outside the Box in Gear Design The Importance of Functionality and Simplicity in Tent Design The Demands of the Hunting Community for High-Quality Gear Balancing Weight and Functionality in Gear Selection Encouraging Innovation and Creativity in the Outdoor Industry Passion for the Outdoors and Enhancing the Outdoor Experience Website YouTube Instagram Absoroka 4P Absoroka Full Insert Fabric Article Last Wild Places Film Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Aaron Owens runs “Backcountry Foodie,” a one-stop shop for backpackers and long-distance hikers who want to level up their food game in the backcountry. From ultra-light food recipes and meal planners to a robust calorie calculator and resupply service, Aaron has you covered. She loves backcountry food so much that she’ll even pack your food bag for you and ship it to your home so all you need to do is toss it in your pack and head out the door! Key Takeaways: Food plays a crucial role in backpacking and can impact performance and enjoyment on the trail Creating a diverse menu with foods that you enjoy from home can help maintain energy levels and prevent boredom Understanding your caloric needs and eating regularly throughout the day is essential for sustained energy and avoiding bonking While junk food can provide quick energy, it's important to balance it with complex carbohydrates, protein, and fats for optimal performance Transitioning to a new diet on the trail should be done gradually to avoid digestive issues and other negative effects on the body. Customize your meal plans based on your hiking strategy and preferences. Maximize the nutritional value of each bite by incorporating combination foods Eat every hour to hour and a half to maintain energy levels throughout the day Consider freeze-drying your own meals for a lightweight and personalized backpacking experience Keep a hiking food journal to track what works and what doesn't for future trips Show Notes and Links: Aaron's Backstory The Importance of Food in Backpacking Creating a Diverse Menu Understanding Caloric Intake The Importance of Eating Regularly The Pros and Cons of a Junk Food Diet Transitioning to a New Diet and Its Effects Emergency Food and Snacks Customized Meal Plans Based on Hiking Strategy Maximizing Caloric Intake Combination Foods Eating for Warmth in Cold Weather Eating on the Go Palette Changes Freeze Drying Foodie Services https://backcountryfoodie.com/aff/53/ https://www.instagram.com/backcountry_foodie https://www.youtube.com/c/BackcountryFoodie Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Robbie Kroger of Blood Origins joins the show to discuss the complex relationship between hunting and conservation. We cover a range of topics, including the reintroduction of wolves, the function of wetlands, what would happen if we stopped hunting altogether, and finally, the impact social media has had on hunting. We also discuss the responsibilities brands have in shaping narratives and the importance of a respectful approach to hunting as a part of conservation. Robbie is a wealth of knowledge and one heck of a guy! Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Janelle Smith is the strategic communications team lead at rec.gov and is responsible for spreading the word about the myriad of offerings the platform has for outdoor enthusiasts. As the summer season approaches, many of us are deep in the planning mode for camping trips, making this conversation with Janelle and her team a no-brainer. If you're not yet familiar with rec.gov, think of it as your ultimate planning companion for camping and various outdoor activities. Janelle walks us through the functionalities of this planning tool, highlighting how it simplifies the process of discovering available sites, understanding what's out there, and crafting the perfect trip itinerary. Janelle's role as a key representative for rec.gov makes her insights particularly valuable. Whether you're a seasoned user or a newcomer, this episode will likely uncover nuances about rec.gov that you might not have considered. Show Notes and Links: Getting to know Janelle Rec.gov services and mission Recreation before Rec.gov 2023 recreational trends New features for 2024 Addressing no-show campers Post COVID trends Advice for booking popular campsites The “Trip Builder” feature Janelle’s “why” behind what she does The “big picture” Encouraging exploration https://www.recreation.gov/ Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Dr. Dan Wildcat joins the podcast to discuss his new book "On Indigenuity" and how we can reframe our relationship with the natural world in both a personal and global way. Dan is a Yuchi member of the Muscogee Nation of Oklahoma, PhD, and teaches at Haskell Nations University. He's a wealth of wisdom and knowledge and offers a refreshing approach to long-debated topics. Show Notes and Links Getting to know Dan Dan’s early years Relationships with the land Our disconnection with the natural world On being insulated from natural reality How to retraining our mental framework Resources vs Relatives Dealing with climate change in a new way Traditional Christian views versus Indigenous Experiential versus Spiritual The psychology of living in fear Unwrapping experiential moments Dan’s book "On Indigenuity" (available Nov 14th) Dan’s Bio 20% Discount: Use BYLAND at checkout - CLICK HERE Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Jen Loofbourrow is the Owner and Founder of Alpine Fit, a baselayer-focused brand that offers multiple fit options in a custom odor-resistant fabric. Jen joins the show to talk about her background in the outdoors, why she launched a baselayer clothing brand, why proper fit is so important, and much more! Show Notes and Links PCT Days recap Getting involved with the long-distance crowd Seeing products in the wild for the first time Why start a base layer brand? Jen’s custom fabric for Alpine Fit Jen’s outdoor backstory Learning how to pack the essentials Having options, but not TOO many options Emory’s vision of a perfect outdoor store On customers wanting a personal connection The importance of offering multiple fit options How Jen manages fit options Tailoring from Alpine Fit The building blocks of Alpine Fit The importance of a proper fit Bushwhacking Leggings Jen’s perfect layering system How to follow up with Jen and Alpine Fit https://www.facebook.com/alpinefitco https://www.instagram.com/alpinefitco/ https://www.youtube.com/@alpinefit https://www.linkedin.com/company/alpinefitco Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Bill Stoker is a retired Army Veteran with a passion for teaching others how to master the art of fieldcraft and land navigation. In this episode, Bill joins the podcast for a deep dive into how to gain the correct mindset and perspective when in the field, the importance of situational awareness, and how his childhood years impacted how he views the world today. Show Notes and Links Getting to know Bill How Bill got into land nav and fieldcraft The importance of changing perspective How complacency presents itself What land navigation students struggle with the most Digital vs. analog navigation What causes distrust in equipment How to teach Situational Awareness Bill’s childhood years Audience response to deeper discussions Barriers or excuses? The importance of friction points How the outdoors has changed over time The “do nothing” outdoor challenge What’s next for Bill in retirement How to follow up with Bill www.youtube.com/stokermatic www.stokermatic.com https://www.instagram.com/stokercraft Outdoor Vitals Outdoor Vitals creates high-performance ultralight backpacking gear. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

In this episode, it's just you and me hanging out for a bit. We'll catch you up on life and why I've been missing from the podcast for a couple of months. Don't worry, the show still goes on, but I had some growing to do, and you're going to hear all about it. I love gear and trail stories as much as the next person, however, I think it's equally important to talk about life off the trail. What we learn in the field makes us better at home, and vice versa. I've been in the throws of a learning experience and I'm now ready to talk about it. Links Link to my short film about leaving a hunt early Garage Grown Gear Ultralight and cottage backpacking brands. REI Assorted outdoor gear and equipment. Backcountry Assorted outdoor gear and equipment. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Michael "Einstein" Gelfeld is an accomplished backpacker and bikepacker. He's logged thousands of miles doing both, but when you ask him what matters most after all of that, he'd tell you it's not the stats but instead, whether or not you enjoy what you're doing. Einstein joins the podcast to discuss current backpacking culture, how he escaped the thru-hiking mentality, and how he rediscovered his love for backpacking. Show Notes and Links Einsteins backpacking backstory A shift in perspective The accomplishment measuring stick Recapping the AZT YoYo attempt Redefining backpacking on a personal level Breaking free of the thru-hiking mentality The CDT hiker story - the epitome of where we’re at Where badge hunting gets dangerous Thru-Hikers are not backpackers Why thru-hiking is an attractive pursuit What actually motivates you up the trail Do the thing you want to do and enjoy it The importance of pursuing what you enjoy https://www.instagram.com/youth.retired/ https://www.unpublishedeinsteinthoughts.com/ https://lighterpack.com/r/p83g4d https://www.mgelfeldmath.com/ Audience Feedback and Survey If you'd like to help shape the future of the podcast, please fill out the form by visiting the link below or email me at emory@byland.co. Thanks! https://byland.co/podcast-survey REI Assorted outdoor gear and equipment. Garage Grown Gear Ultralight and cottage backpacking brands. Backcountry Assorted outdoor gear and equipment. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Andy Wynne is the CEO of Nuyarn®, a Merino wool textile manufacturer that has reinvented the way Merino is spun so it can unlock its natural characteristics while enhancing performance. The result is a material that can outperform synthetics while maintaining the benefits of natural fiber. Nuyarn® is stronger, stretchier, softer, more abrasion resistant, and as you’ll learn here in a minute, is spun on machines that have a reduced impact on the environment. Long story short, the Merino wool you’re used to wearing wasn’t spun with the rigors of the outdoors in mind, Nuyarn® is, and you’re about to learn all about it. If you want a solid education on Merino wool and some insight into how and why it’s made the way it is, you’ll enjoy this episode. Andy walks us through his backstory, the development of Nuyarn®, and why it matters. Show Notes and Links Introductions Making the switch from synthetic to merino Andy’s backstory How Merino wool works Traditional ways of manufacturing wool The Nuyarn® method of spinning Merino What the industry was asking for Durability of Nuyarn® Suggested weight for sun hoodies Why Polyester can be clammy What Nuyarn is comprised of Why Merino is itchy (Microns explained) Purpose-built spinning machines Animal welfare, ethics, and renewable material surrounding Merino wool (sheep shearing) Continuing to push limits and make an impact How to find Nuyarn® products Moisture retainment issues with Merino https://nuyarn.co.nz/ Nuyarn introduction (video) Brands Using Nuyarn® Black Diamond Outdoor Vitals Kuiu Artilect Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Exo Mountain Gear specializes in load-hauling backpacks designed for hunters. Steve Speck and Mark Huelsing join me for a behind-the-scenes look at Exo's newest K4 pack design. After more than 3 years in development and over a decade of pack-building experience, the K4 is a finely tuned design and the best pack Exo has designed to date. This episode is loaded with insight into the principles of pack design, the mechanical function of load carry (this is HUGE), and how Steve decides which features and updates make the cut when revising his designs. If you spend any amount of time with any kind of pack strapped to your back (yes, even a lightweight one), you can learn a lot from Steve and Mark. Knowing how your gear functions will put you in the driver's seat rather than being a mere passenger hoping it's all going to work out. Exo Mountain Gear is the real deal. They make a premium product and a team behind them that cares about their customers. Enjoy! Show Notes and Links Catching up with Mark and Steve Recapping Steve’s recent Alaskan sheep hunts Recapping Mark’s Mountain Goat hunt Mental strength - how to stay positive and mentally present Transitioning to the natural cycle of the backcountry Where pack design begins Exo Pack design principles Pack design changes over the years Exciting changes to the K4 design Where quality load carry begins The importance of hip-belt structure Finding the sweet spot in pack design The importance of taking care of customers Ivory holster compatibility with K4 Plans for the rest of 2023 How to follow up with Exo Mountain Gear https://exomtngear.com/ Instagram YouTube The Hunt Backcountry Podcast Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Dan Becker is a backpacker from Wisconsin who turned his passion into his full-time profession. If you’ve poked around YouTube for backpacking, you’ve no doubt seen his videos a time or two. He’s grown a massive following and for good reason - he’s just a great guy. Dan is genuine, sincere, funny, and just loves to backpack. I didn’t know much about him before we spoke, but sincerely enjoyed getting to know him and now have a fond appreciation for what he’s been able to accomplish. We cover a ton of ground in this episode, including everything from Wisconsin backpacking culture and learning how to find your own style of backpacking, to starting a YouTube channel and making it a real career. One of the things I find fascinating about Dan’s approach to making backpacking a “career” is that he looks at it like a business and a hobby. He’s been able to separate the two things, but also fuse them together which is really hard to do. Dan has used backpacking to create a business and business to create more backpacking adventures and I think a lot of outdoor creators can learn a thing or two from him. I mean, the guy has a family and goes backpacking for a living. I have no doubt you’ll enjoy getting to know Dan as much as I did. Show Notes and Links: Dan’s outdoor backstory Backpacking in Wisconsin Getting to know the backpacking crowd Western backpacking vs Mid West backpacking Appreciating what you have Putting backpacking in a box Learning to backpack Finding a personal backpacking style Being the focus of hit pieces Why Dan started a YouTube channel The life of a creative Deciding to go all in on YouTube Sponsorships and brand deals Dan’s advice to creators Working out with Dan How to follow up with Dan YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DanBecker IG: https://www.instagram.com/danbeckeroutdoors Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danbeckeroutdoors Dan's rescue recap: https://youtu.be/FRSGGUUtN9Y Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

The Hexatrek is a 3000 km long-distance trail across France that begins at the border of Germany, traverses the Pyrenees Mountains, and ends at the Bay of Biscay. Thomas works for the Hexatrek organization and spent the summer and fall of 2022 hiking and documenting the trail. Thomas is able to recognize the realities of hiking a long and share all sides of that reality. He can describe the trail as an epic adventure that includes vineyards, castles, and mountains, but he’ll also tell you how mentally complacent you can become when one view blends into the next. If you’re dreaming of backpacking through France one day, you’re going to love this episode. Show Notes and Links Introduction to the Hexatrek Hexatrek backstory European hiking culture and trail experience Thru-hiking popularity in Europe The importance of having a beginning and end Hiking the Hexatrek vs an American long trail Daily life and cadence of the trail Making the hike your own Visa considerations Camping along the Hexatrek Food along the Hexatrek Experiencing France by foot Thomas’s backpacking story The highs and lows of thru-hiking Thoughts on losing reverence for an experience Life after the Hexatrek Finding balance in life is actually finding contrast The importance of gaining perspective through contrast What’s next for the Hexatrek Why “Hexatrek” How to followup with Thomas and the Hexatrek https://en.hexatrek.com/ https://www.instagram.com/hexatrek/ https://www.facebook.com/LHexatrek/ https://www.instagram.com/cartapouille https://youtu.be/9qIlOONM8sY Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-a-tent-with-a-french-man-a-daily-thru-hiking-journal/id1502733870 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0P8RD04n8UX0ubqwnFOvXj?si=b502ebfdafda4793 Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Andrew Skurka is known throughout the backpacking industry as someone who knows what they’re talking about when it comes to spending time in the backcountry. He was thru-hiking before it became popular and has hiked well over 20,000 miles across both long and short expeditions. Andrew now operates a backpacking guide service. Andrew is a wealth of knowledge for all things backpacking but also has great insight into the mindset the backcountry requires. If you enjoy learning from the best, this episode will not disappoint. Show Notes and Links How Andrew Skurka got into thru-hiking How far backpacking has come since the early days Hiking the AT in the early days The benefit of uninterrupted long-duration hikes/adventures The importance of having an “end” to an expedition or experience On being goal-oriented rather than “wandering” How Andrew got into being a backpacking guide mindset from a guide to teacher Learning to slow down Learning to navigate groups and personalities High Routes explained How Andrew got into high routes The natural progression of outdoor exploration Plans for future expeditions Andrews backpacking advice Andrews favorite gear Thoughts on synthetic or natural fibers How to followup with Andrew Skurka Website: https://andrewskurka.com/ Guided Trips: https://andrewskurka.com/guided-trips/ Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Katie O’mara is the driving force behind Trail Magik, an outdoor brand whose mission is to make hiking and backpacking with toddlers efficient and more enjoyable. Once kids grow out of their backpack-style carriers, parents are forced into deciding how far their little ones can hike before needing to be picked up, but oftentimes riding in a backpack is too much trouble because all the toddler really needs is a small break from walking. That’s where Trail Magik comes in. Katie is the best. She has a heart of gold and sincerely cares about her community. From the struggles of owning a small business to the ups and downs of being an outdoor family, we cover all of it in this episode and I came away from our conversation feeling inspired and encouraged. For those out there with young families trying to figure this whole thing out, I think this episode will be a bright spot in your day. It’s conversations like this one that keeps me going and I’m glad that people like Katie are out there encouraging others to be adventurous with their families. If you’re interested in picking up a carrier of your own or for someone else, you can use the code BYLAND to save 10% off at www.trailmagik.com. Show Notes and Links The Trail Magik origin story Why the carrier works for walking toddlers Entrepreneurial life Learning to get outdoors with kids Preparing for new outdoor adventures What it’s like putting a product into the world The importance of being yourself Feeling the pressure to adventure Do what you WANT to do out there Defining an “outdoor” family Growing up in the outdoors Why parents feel the pull to bring their kids outside Creating an outdoor lifestyle Biggest barriers for parents and kids in the outdoors Learning to enjoy the hiking parts of backpacking Katie’s closing thoughts How to followup with Katie and Trail Magik www.trailmagik.com Instagram YouTube Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Tommy Corey’s eye for outdoor portrait photography landed him front and center in the hiking community during his 2018 PCT thru-hike when he began posting fashion-esque portraits of fellow thru-hikers under the project name “Hiker Trash Vogue.” The photo project captured the attention of major outdoor brands and was even featured in Outside Online. Tommy received high accolades for his work, but it was also pointed out that his subjects did not represent a range of diverse backgrounds in the outdoors. This podcast episode is a conversation between myself and Tommy about his CDT realizations, his upcoming project, and what “diversity” and “inclusion” really mean in the outdoors. This is a topic I often find to be tough to nail down at times, not to mention for some, emotionally charged. Those terms along with ones like “community” are thrown around like candy these days and I find myself sincerely wondering where it all leads and how to approach it. Conversations like this one aren’t meant to solve problems. They’re meant to discuss them and gain perspective which is exactly what I personally achieved. Please enjoy this episode with Tommy Corey. Show Notes and Links Catching up with Tommy after Hiker Trash Vogue What happened on the CDT in 2022 What Tommy was seeing and NOT seeing on the trail The creative process on the trail The idea of thru-hikes as a Pilgrimage What the PCT meant to Tommy Tommy’s new BIG project Understanding what diversity and inclusion actually mean Tommy’s creative process What diversity and inclusion means Thoughts on what “community” is Takeaways from Tommy’s interviews Taking on such a big photo project Experiencing how others enjoy the outdoors Understanding the “why” behind your actions Details on the release dates of the photo book How to follow the project tommycoreyphoto.com All Humans Outside on Instagram Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

This is the second part of a two-part mini-series with Marketa and David Daley who in 2022 hiked 1300 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail with their 3 young kids. David and I dive into the more holistic side of hiking the trail and explore the meaning behind the struggle and process of a thru-hike. For anyone who enjoys the non-technical side of a thru-hiking discussion, you’ll enjoy this, especially if you’re a parent yourself. David and I dive into what it was like to hike as Father on the PCT, how hard it was to learn to hike as slow as a child, and the spiritual connection we feel toward wild spaces. A thru-hike is a difficult thing to process and it was great to have the chance to explore the experience with David so soon after the end of his hike. Show Notes Digesting the trail The importance of immersing yourself in the wilderness Thoughts on possible long-term effects of thru-hiking with kids (hopes versus reality) Experiencing the PCT as a Dad Parental roles and responsibilities on the trail Holding hands for 500 miles then letting go… Learning to hike all-day What it’s like hiking at a child’s pace Reasons behind the hike The spiritual connection to wild spaces Is life balance possible? The willingness to easily find excuses not to do something Imagining life without the PCT Understanding why you hike Breakthrough moments on the trail Reflecting on relationships with fellow hikers The importance of community Final thoughts https://www.instagram.com/daleywalk Garage Grown Gear Ultralight and cottage backpacking brands. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Marketa and David Daley backpacked 1300 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail in 2022 with their 3 kids and proved to themselves that yes, it was possible to hike the PCT as a family. At times they moved at a snail's pace, questioned their own sanity, and were forced to find creative ways to motivate their kids to continue moving down the trail. Together as a family, they experienced the highs and lows of trail life, strengthened their family bonds, and in the end, found what they were looking for. This is part 1 of a 2 part episode series where I interview Marketa and David separately to learn about them as people, their background, their motivations, and finally their hiking story. I’m sincerely honored and humbled to have them on this podcast and grateful that they’re willing to share their experiences in such a real and transparent way. Show Notes Introductions Initial expectations for the PCT Emory’s internal conflict with kids on long trails How Marketa and her family decided to hike Maketa’s personal outdoor backstory Previous hikes with kids leading up to the PCT Why the PCT was so daunting as a hike How the kids transitioned to the trail The first 20 miles Anticipating the struggle of a thru-hike with kids How parenting changed on the PCT How outdoor activities changed with more kids How to break the barriers and remove excuses Lessons learned with gear Choosing kid’s clothes for backpacking The importance of just starting Motivating kids to keep moving How parenting on the trail differs from parenting on the trail How the trail bonded the kids The transition from trail to home Audience question: Thoughts and advice for taking a 4-year-old hiking and backpacking as a single parent How to follow up with Marketa https://www.instagram.com/daleywalk Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co

Evan Guzik is a Public Affairs Officer for the US Forest Service out of the Bridger Teton Forest and joins the podcast to walk me through the basics of wildfires. Not only am I honored to have the US Forest Service represented on my show, but it’s made even more special because Evan and I served together in the Marine Corps nearly 20 years ago. We cover what prescribed burns are and why they’re useful, how fires are managed from beginning to end, what to do if you see a fire or you’re around one when you’re hiking or backpacking, and how to handle yourself in an area after a burn. There’s a lot of great stuff in this episode that to me is really helpful and I think you’re going to really enjoy it. Just the fact that I now know more about what goes on in our forests is huge because I figure the more I know, the better a steward I can be out there. If you want to learn more about wildfires, Evan provided some links that I’ve listed in the show notes so be sure to check those out when you have a chance. Again, this episode is really special to me so thanks to Evan for doing the legwork to make this happen, and thanks to the US Forest Service for being willing to put this out there! Show Notes and Links Introductions Catching up with Evan Evan’s backstory Wildfire burns, prescribed burns, and a brief history of forest management How a fire turns from good to bad How a wildfire is fought and managed How to handle a wildfire if you see one How the Forest Service gauges fire danger To build or not to build a fire? What the public can do to help prevent wildfires Advice for hiking through a burn area https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/ (fire information) https://www.nifc.gov/ (Wildland Fire resources) https://www.nwcg.gov/ (Wildfire Training) https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Wildfire/Firewise-USA (Home Defensible Space) https://smokeybear.com/ Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. Website Join the podcast email newsletter Make a One-Time Donation (+ Affiliate Links) Monthly Podcast Support Courses Learn How To Backpack 6 Weeks To Solo Backpacking Thru-Hiking 101 Resources YouTube Instagram Facebook Groups emory@byland.co