Practical Backpacking™ Podcast

PBP Episode 45 - Hammocks 101

2010-02-13T21:14:05Z

This episode is all about hammocks. I've asked Brandon Waddy of Warbonnet Outdoors to help answer some basic, introductory questions regarding camping hammocks and hammock accessories.

Brandon and I discuss the types, benefits, and features of hammocks. And offer some practical tips for the use of hammocks in the backcountry.

Whether you're a curious beginner needing a little more information, or a seasoned hammocker who just loves talk about hammocks, this episode is likely to capture your interest.

PBP Episode 45 - Hammocks 101

PBP Episode 44 - RailRiders

2009-11-23T22:54:49Z

This episode features my conversation with John d'Arbeloff - the President and Founder of RailRiders.

Our talk focuses primarily on the company's popular VersaTac pants and Eco-Mesh shirt. However, there's a generous overview of several other RailRiders products.

John tells us about the fabric, features, and function of his tough and practical outdoor clothing line.

PBP Episode 44 - RailRiders

PBP Episode 43 - Blue Mountain Heritage Trail

2009-09-04T00:41:08Z

In this episode I talk with Dick Hentze. Dick is the Chairman of the Board for the Blue Mountain Heritage Trail Association [501(c)(3)].

Dick amd others are working hard to establish a new, long trail for backpackers and other outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy year-round. The Blue Mountain Heritage Trail (BMHT) is a loop trail of approximately 870 miles of remote, scenic wilderness located largely in northeastern Oregon.

The BMHT provides a footpath through one of America's greatest treasure troves of majestic scenery - complete with a wide variety of wildlife such as antelope, elk, moose, and wolves. Dick presents an open invitation and an exciting opportunity for listeners to get involved in the beginnings of a wonderful new wilderness trail.

PBP Episode 43 - Blue Mountain Heritage Trail

PBP Episode 42 - Walking the Amazon

2009-07-07T21:28:37Z

This episode features my interview with former British Army Captain Ed Stafford. Ed is in the midst of an expedition of a lifetime - backpacking the entire length of the Amazon River.

Driving himself through constant obstacles and denying fear's hold on him, Ed's spending over 2 years trekking thousands of miles of dense jungles, wading chest-deep swamps, and experiencing interesting encounters with various insects, reptiles, fish, indigenous tribes, and more.

What drives him to do this? What gear does he use? How dangerous is this expedition? Listen in for answers to these and other probing questions.

PBP Episode 42 - Walking the Amazon

PBP Episode 41 - Backpacking Couple

2009-04-17T00:54:07Z

In this episode Lawton Grinter (Disco) and Felicia Hermosillo (P.O.D.) share what it was like to backpack as a couple for over 5,000 miles.

In recent years, the couple hiked both the Continental Divide Trail (see Walkumentary) and the Pacific Crest Trail, living on love, patience, trial and error, and whatever they could fit into their modest backpacks.

Having spent nearly every minute and mile after mile with mere paces between them, the two learned a lot about each other, themselves, and even how to yogi a thing or two. Listen in to laugh, learn, and dream as this adventurous duo shares their memorable journey.

PBP Episode 41 - Backpacking Couple

PBP Episode 40 - Backpacks 101

2009-01-30T20:23:15Z

This episode is all about backpacks! Those with questions such as "Which pack should I get?" or "Is this pack big enough?" will be provided a wealth of information to help them with their decision making process.

Brian Frankle of Ultralight Adventure Equipment ( ULA) in on board with me to talk about a full-range of topics related to backpacks. Listen in for a generous overview of pack attributes, usage tips, and problem solving.

Whether you're planning a dayhike or a trek across country, this episode is likely to touch on something that will be of interest and practical application.

PBP Episode 40 - Backpacks

PBP Episode 39 - AMK Emergency Blankets and Bivvies

2008-12-13T00:36:24Z

This episode features my discussion with the President of Adventure Medical Kits, Chris Gubera.

Chris answers my questions that are focused on the company's Heetsheets Blankets and Bivvy and the Thermo-Lite 2 Bivvy Sack.

These increasingly popular products are lightweight, durable, and quiet - and may just be what keeps you alive in an wilderness emergency.

Also in this episode is a little AMK company history and a few interesting stories regarding these survival products in use.

PBP Episode 39 - AMK Emergency Blankets and Bivvies

PBP Episode 38 - SPOT Satellite Messenger

2008-11-14T01:01:38Z

In this episode I talk with Derek Moore of SPOT LLC about the SPOT Satellite Messenger.

Derek is the Public Relations Manager for SPOT, and he's enthusiastic about sharing the wonders of the company's proven, life-saving device.

If you travel into the wilderness, you may want to consider taking a SPOT Satellite Messenger along to send Check-In (I'm OK), Help, or 911 messages out via satellite to others.

Listen in to learn about the SPOT's lightweight design, easy-to-use features, and communications functions.

PBP Episode 38 - SPOT Satellite Messenger

PBP Episode 37 - Wilderness Cooking

2008-08-01T01:23:30Z

This episode features my conversation with author and wilderness cooking enthusiast Laurie March.

Laurie talks with me about her recently published book A Fork in the Trail, and shares some of her wisdom and tips for making backpacking meals more enjoyable.

If your questions aren't answered in this episode or if you're just hungry for more, Laurie's an active member in the Practical Backpacking Forums and is excited about discussing wilderness cooking with you.

PBP Episode 37 - Wilderness Cooking

PBP Episode 36 - Big Agnes

2008-07-11T23:17:26Z

In this episode I talk with Len Zanni, one of the co-owners of Big Agnes - a manufacturer of outdoor equipment that prides itself in being "The Mother of Comfort."

Our conversation specifically focuses on the new Copper Spur tent line. However, I ask Len to share a concise overview of the other tents, bags, pads, and accessories that the Colorado-based company has to offer.

Listen in to learn about Big Agnes gear - including recent product changes and a few hints on what's to come.

PBP Episode 36 - Big Agnes

PBP Episode 35 - Tarps 101

2008-03-15T21:13:27Z

This episode is all about tarps. I've asked Ron Bell of Mountain Laurel Designs (MLD) to help me address concerns that some may have about using a tarp as their primary backpacking shelter.

Ron and I also discuss the many benefits that tarps provide as well as helpful tips on selection and pitching.

PBP Episode 35 - Tarps 101

PBP Episode 34 - GoLite Ultra 20

2008-03-07T23:08:23Z

In this episode, I interview Andy Burgess, the Vice President of Development for GoLite, regarding the Ultra 20° down sleep system.

Andy shares all the details regarding the Ultra 20's design, materials, sizing, weight, and more. Listen in to discover the advantages of using this lightweight quilt for your outdoor adventures.

PBP Episode 34 - GoLite Ultra 20

PBP Episode 33 - New at Gossamer Gear

2008-02-01T00:05:15Z

This episode is a double-feature in which I interview the executives of Gossamer Gear. First up, I talk with Grant Sible, the company's President, about new products and those that are soon to be released. Grant shares the details regarding new ultralight backpacking accessories and the changes and upcoming additions to their pack lineup.

Also featured is a detailed introduction to Gossamer Gear's new solo 1-pound shelter, The One, by Founder and Chairman Glen Van Peski.

PBP Episode 33 - New at Gossamer Gear

PBP Episode 32 - New Hilleberg All-Season Tents

2007-12-19T22:50:15Z

This episode features my conversation with Petra Hilleberg, President and CEO of Hilleberg (USA), about the company's new Soulo, Allak, and Kaitum 3 shelters.

Petra shares details regarding the construction and features for each of these new models. Listen in to learn about Hilleberg's light and durable Kerlon fabric, their spacious tunnel and sturdy dome designs, and other real-world-tested features that go into every Hilleberg tent.

PBP Episode 32 - New Hilleberg All-Season Tents

PBP Episode 31 - CDT Yo-Yo

2007-11-09T23:08:37Z

In this episode, Francis Tapon shares the exciting details of his extraordinary Yo-Yo of the Continental Divide Trail.

Francis hiked north on the CDT from Mexico to Canada and immediately turned around at the Canadian border and hiked southbound back to Mexico. This first-ever trek covered nearly 6,000 miles and took over 6 months to complete.

Listen in to hear Francis tell his inspiring story, and to learn how he accomplished such an amazing journey. Why did he do it? How did he manage the cold, bears, loneliness, and seemingly endless miles? Which gear worked for him and which didn't? What life-lessons did he bring back? This episode is packed with candid answers to these and many other questions.

Warning the information in this episode may be lead to a hiking addiction -- but if you want more, be sure to check out the journals, photos, and videos on Francis Tapon's website.

PBP Episode 31 - CDT Yo-Yo