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Text the show! In this episode, I sit down with Tia Banks, a former professional athlete turned mountaineer, resilience expert, and motivational speaker. Tia’s journey is one of resilience, self-discovery, and mental toughness, and in our conversation, she shares how learning to manage setbacks helped her transition into a new passion.  From growing up in Nebraska to inspiring thousands through her speaking tour, her story is proof that adversity can be a stepping stone to something greater.  Tia explains that a "setback is the setup." Key Takeaways: The power of self-talk – What we tell ourselves matters in the hardest moments.Resilience is built, not given – Hardship creates opportunities for personal growth.The outdoors is transformative – Mountains provide a unique space for reflection and challenge.Community is essential – Finding support in the hardest moments can make all the difference. Show Notes and Links:  IntroductionTia’s BackgroundResilience & Overcoming SetbacksTransition from Athlete to SpeakerClimbing KilimanjaroThe Power of Self-TalkDiversity in MountaineeringMind Over Mountains Tourhttps://www.tiabanks.com/https://www.instagram.com/thetiabankshttps://www.youtube.com/@thetiabanks1 Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! In this episode, I sit down with Tayson Whittaker, founder of Outdoor Vitals, to dive deep into fastpacking—what it is, why it works when time is tight, and how to cover more ground in less time. Whether you’re a backpacker looking to move faster and lighter, or someone trying to maximize limited time on the trail, this episode is packed with tons of insights on how to make fastpacking a practical tool in your outdoor adventures. Tayson shares his personal fastpacking strategies, including gear, hydration and nutrition planning, and how to structure your days for big miles without burnout. We also get into the evolution of Outdoor Vitals gear and how it’s designed with fastpackers and minimalist adventurers in mind. If you’ve been curious about how fastpacking can fit into your life—or you just want to find smarter ways to adventure farther and faster—this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: Fastpacking is a tool to cover more ground in less time, opening up bigger adventures even when life is busy.Dialing in your gear makes fastpacking possible—cut the weight without sacrificing comfort or safety.Hydration and electrolytes are mission-critical, especially for high-mileage days. Don't underestimate your salt needs.Nutrition strategy is everything—consistent fueling keeps your energy steady and prevents the dreaded calorie wall.Planning your day around effort, rest, and fueling is the secret to consistent, high-mileage success. Show Notes and Links: IntroductionThe Growth of Outdoor VitalsGame-Changing GearFastpacking vs. Traditional BackpackingNutrition & Hydration in the BackcountryThe Evolution of Down vs. Synthetic InsulationLessons Learned from Long Days on the TrailWhat’s Next for Outdoor Vitals?Outdoor VitalsTokes alcohol stoveVentus Active HoodieVario JacketSkyline FastpackTushar Rain JacketAltitude Sun HoodieRe-LyteSupport the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! In this episode of the By Land Podcast, I sit down with Bria Ruben, co-founder of Ruck Evolution, to explore the benefits of rucking—a simple yet powerful way to build fitness, mental resilience, and community. Rucking is walking with weight, and it’s one of the most accessible, low-impact ways to increase endurance and strength.   Bria shares how she discovered rucking, why it became such a key part of her life, and how Ruck Evolution is making rucking more accessible with innovative water-based weight systems. We talk about why rucking is great for all fitness levels, how it can be integrated into everyday life, and the role of community in keeping people moving. If you’ve been looking for a practical, no-fuss way to improve your health and prepare for outdoor adventures, this conversation will inspire you to start rucking today. Key Takeaways: Rucking is an easy way to build endurance, strength, and mental resilience—it’s simply walking with weight.Anyone can ruck—start light and gradually increase weight and distance.Rucking is highly functional—it translates well to activities like hiking, hunting, and everyday movement.It’s more than fitness—rucking builds community and brings people together.You don’t need fancy gear to start—a backpack and some weight (like water bottles) is enough. Show Notes and Links: Introduction – Why rucking is worth your timeBria’s Background – How she discovered rucking and her work in recreation therapyRucking 101 – What it is, why it works, and how to get startedThe Benefits of Rucking – Strength, endurance, mental clarity, and injury preventionHow Rucking Fits Into Everyday Life – Training for outdoor adventures, fitness goals, and moreBuilding a Rucking Community – Why doing it with others keeps you motivatedRuck Evolution’s Innovative Gear – How they’re making rucking more accessibleFinal Thoughts & Resources – Where to learn more and how to get started todayhttps://www.ruckevolution.com/Ruck Evolution Aquabells: https://www.ruckevolution.com/product-page/ruck-evolution-aquabellsWeighted Vest (amazon): https://amzn.to/3QPmqnsSupport the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! In this episode, I sit down with Kevin Timm, founder of Seek Outside, to discuss the intersection of hunting, backpacking, and innovation in outdoor gear design. Kevin shares his thoughts on bridging the divide between recreational users and hunters, the role of durability in product design, and the stories behind Seek Outside's tents and backpacks. We dive into the evolution of his minimalist, high-performance shelters and why they’ve become a staple for serious adventurers around the world. Kevin also talks about the philosophy that drives his company’s commitment to user-tested, proven gear and why experience in the outdoors should always trump external validation. Key Takeaways: Bridging the Divide: Kevin discusses how marketing has contributed to the division between hunters and recreational adventurers and emphasizes the shared love of nature.Gear That Lasts: Seek Outside's products are designed to be user-tested and capable of thriving in diverse environments, from Alaskan hunts to desert hikes.Innovation in Design: Kevin shares how Seek Outside’s tents, particularly their zipperless shelters, provide durability without sacrificing weight.The Power of Minimalism: Experienced backpackers tend to favor simple, functional gear that reduces bulk and increases versatility.Access and Conservation: Kevin explains the importance of public land access and highlights issues such as landlocked public areas and the complexities of wildlife conservation. Show Notes and Links: Introduction: Welcoming Kevin Timm back to the podcast and revisiting his journey with Seek Outside.The Outdoor Divide: Discussing the divide between hunters and recreational adventurers and how marketing plays a role.The Origins of Seek Outside: Kevin’s motivation for creating gear that excels in harsh conditions.Tents That Survive Anything: A breakdown of the Red Cliff and Cimarron shelters and their legendary durability.Packs that Redefine Comfort: How Seek Outside integrates backpacking and hunting designs to create sub-3lb packs that carry heavy loads comfortably.Simplifying Gear Needs: Why minimalist pack designs are often superior to overbuilt models full of pockets.Conservation Conversations: The importance of public land access and issues like corner crossing and landlocked land.Valuing Experience Over Trophies: Kevin’s reflections on why outdoor experiences matter more than external validation.https://seekoutside.com/https://seekoutside.com/silex-1p-xl/https://seekoutside.com/sunlight-2p/https://seekoutside.com/cimarron-4p/https://seekoutside.com/flight-3/Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! In this episode, I sit down with Chad to dive into his journey from a beginner hiker to a seasoned thru-hiker, ultra-runner, and outdoor content creator. We explore the moments that shaped his path, including his first 100-mile hike, overcoming mental and physical challenges, and his leap from a 9-to-5 job to full-time content creation. Chad shares his insights on balancing passion with work, avoiding burnout, and how endurance sports like ultra-running have influenced his approach to hunting and outdoor adventures. This episode is packed with honest reflections, valuable lessons, and inspiration for anyone pursuing adventure and creativity. Key Takeaways 100-Mile Hikes Build Resilience: Reaching the 100-mile mark on a hike forces you to adapt and grow, making it a significant milestone for backpackers.Mentorship Accelerates Learning: Observing experienced hikers can help you fast-track your progress and avoid common mistakes.Compartmentalization Prevents Burnout: Separating content creation from personal adventures helps maintain a healthy relationship with the outdoors.Endurance Sports Enhance Mental Toughness: Ultra-running taught Chad how to endure discomfort and maintain focus during long hunting trips.Pursuing Passion Requires Discipline: Whether it's creating content or pursuing outdoor goals, success comes from building habits and embracing the hard moments. Show Notes and Links Intro and Catching UpThe Waterfall Controversy and Preferences in NatureChad’s First 100-Mile Hike and the Power of MentorshipTransition to Full-Time Content CreationBalancing Content Creation with Outdoor EnjoymentAvoiding Burnout as a CreatorOvercoming Setbacks and Finding MotivationFrom Ultra-Running to Hunting: Lessons in EnduranceThe Reality of Hunting as an Endurance Sport Discipline, Passion, and Self-DiscoveryChad's InstagramChad's YouTube ChannelSupport the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! Acclaimed author Kevin Fedarko, joins the podcast to discuss his new book, A Walk in the Park, which details the epic journey he took across the length of the Grand Canyon. Kevin reflects on the grueling physical and emotional challenges he and his hiking partner, Pete McBride, faced and how the landscape humbled them. He shares the powerful lessons learned from the wilderness and the close-knit Grand Canyon community that helped them along the way. Our conversation touches on themes of humility, the power of community, and how wilderness can shape us and strengthen our bonds. Kevin also provides insights into his six-year writing process and the deep connection he feels to the Grand Canyon. Key Takeaways: Preparation Is Key: Overconfidence can lead to hard lessons, especially in the wilderness.Community Matters: Support from others can turn failure into triumph.Humility Is Transformative: The Grand Canyon has a way of humbling even the most seasoned adventurers.Conservation Is a Responsibility: Protecting wilderness ensures its legacy for future generations.Wilderness Connects Us: Experiencing the outdoors with loved ones deepens bonds and creates lasting memories. Chapters/Show Notes & Links: Introduction to Kevin Fedarko’s JourneyThe Grand Canyon Trek: A Humbling ExperienceCommunity in the Canyon - A Lifesaving ForceLessons Learned from the WildernessWilderness and Conservation: A Personal ReflectionFinal Thoughts and Kevin’s Book TourWatch this episode on YouTubeBuy the Book!!Watch the documentaryhttps://www.kevinfedarko.com/Kevin's InstagramKevin's on XKevin on FacebookSupport the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! Alex Rich of Mystery Ranch shares his journey from the production floor to the design team, where he now focuses on creating outdoor and hunting gear that prioritizes load carriage and comfort. We dive into the brand's unique approach to pack design, including the revolutionary overload system, which allows users to carry heavy loads more efficiently. Our conversation then turns to the technical aspects of Mystery Ranch packs, the balance between weight and durability, and the evolving materials used in outdoor gear. Alex also touches on the importance of starting from the user’s needs when designing, ensuring comfort and stability for hunters, backpackers, and outdoor adventurers alike. This is the episode to listen to for anyone looking to learn more about Mystery Ranch and pack design. Key Takeaways: Starting from the user: Mystery Ranch's design philosophy always begins with how the pack interfaces with the user, focusing on comfort and load distribution.Overload system innovation: The company’s overload system revolutionized hunting packs by allowing users to separate the pack from the frame for carrying additional weight.Balancing weight and durability: Mystery Ranch intentionally adds weight to certain parts of the pack to improve structural integrity and comfort for heavy loads, though they are exploring lighter materials like the 330D fabric.Foam design for durability: The waist belts of Mystery Ranch packs use a combination of five different types of foam to ensure long-term comfort and support, even with heavy loads.Adapting military pack designs for hunters: Mystery Ranch's transition from military to hunting packs was organic, with their military-grade designs proving useful for outdoor applications.Evolving materials: The conversation highlights how new materials, such as 330D fabrics, are pushing the boundaries of outdoor gear design. Show Notes and Links: Introduction to Alex Rich and Mystery RanchThe Evolution of Mystery Ranch: Mission and MountainThe Overload System: Changing the Game for HuntersDesign Philosophy: Focusing on the UserBalancing Lightweight and Heavy-Duty MaterialsThe Role of Foam in Load DistributionNew Innovations and Materials in Outdoor GearConclusion: Making Outdoor Adventures EasierMystery Ranch Pop-Up SeriesBackpack Hunting PacksSupport the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! Andrew Cottrell is the lead designer of the Radix series of backpacks at Mystery Ranch, an innovative line of ultralight backpacks that combines comfort, durability, and weight-saving features. Andrew shares insights into his hands-on approach to design, the importance of balancing load-carrying capacity with ultralight performance, and how the right gear can impact a hiker’s endurance and comfort on the trail. We also explore the key materials used in the Radix Series and the importance of pack repairability. Whether you're into backpacking, hiking, or simply interested in the technical aspects of pack design, this episode is packed with great insights. Key Take Aways The Radix Series Prioritizes Load-Carrying CapacityDurability and Weight Are Balanced Through Innovative MaterialsCustomization and Flexibility Are Core Features of the Radix SeriesRepairability Is a Key Design FocusAndrew’s Minimalist Approach to PackingThe Adjustable Harness Ensures a Perfect FitPack Design Can Affect Physical and Mental EnduranceMinimalist Design with Strategic FeaturesInnovation at Mystery Ranch Is Driven by Problem-SolvingFuture-Proofing Packs for Long-Term Use Show Notes and Links: Introduction and BackgroundJourney into Pack DesignThe Design Process for the Radix SeriesMaterial Advancements and InnovationLoad-Carrying Comfort in the Radix SeriesCustomization and Minimalist FeaturesDurability, Repairability, and SustainabilityAndrew’s Personal Approach to Pack OrganizationFuture Trends in Pack DesignMystery RanchRadix 31Radix 47Radix 57 Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! Barefoot Ted is widely known for his role in the book Born to Run, but that's just a small part of who he is. In this episode, Ted discusses his approach to life and how to maintain a regular connection with the flow state in everyday life. Show Notes and Links The Connection Between Movement, Music, and IdeasBarefoot Running and the Rediscovery of Natural MovementThe Philosophy Behind Luna SandalsBarefoot Ted's Experience Running a Marathon BarefootThe Pursuit of Personal ChallengesDeveloping a Philosophy and AttitudeCreating a LifestyleOvercoming Despair and Taking ActionFinding Freedom and Pursuing HappinessMaintaining Flow State in Daily LifeSharing Wisdom and Life ExperiencesThe Inspiration of PilgrimagesThe Influence of Santa ClausThe Connection to Junipero SerraThe Fundamentals of HappinessThe Importance of Time OutdoorsThe Role of Gear in Outdoor AdventuresBackpacking as a Catalyst for Personal GrowthThe Importance of Being PresentThe Journey of Well-BeingImprinting Ourselves in NatureThe Journey of Self-EmpowermentThe Power of Being PresentFinding What Makes You Come AliveThe Flywheel of EnergyHiking as a Journey of Self-DiscoveryOvercoming Challenges and Doing BetterLearning More About Luna Sandalshttps://lunasandals.com/Middle Bear SandalsLuna Tabu socksBorn to Run (the book)Ted's IGSupport the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! Jack McClure and his wife hiked southbound on the PCT in 2023 with their 9-month-old baby and joins the show to share their journey and lessons learned along the way.  We discuss what life is like as a SOBO, preparing for the hike, relationship challenges along the way, hitting the SOS button, and what it all means in the end.  Show Notes and Links Preparing for the PCT with a BabyOutdoor Background and ExperienceLiving in the Arctic and Outdoor LearningJudgment and Concerns about Hiking with KidsBenefits and Risks of Outdoor Experiences for KidsThe Importance of Outdoor ExperiencesThe Challenges of Alternative ChildhoodRisk Management and PlanningThe Breaking-In PeriodThe Impact on the BodyThe Bee Sting IncidentEmergency Response and RecoveryThe Importance of Carrying a WhistleLessons Learned from the ExperienceDealing with Fires in Northern CaliforniaChallenges in the RelationshipThe Importance of Check-InsThe Mental Challenges of the TrailThe Decision to Leave the TrailDealing with Pride and ExpectationsThe Positive Impact on Their Daughterhttps://animaltreks.com/Jack's Book Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! 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 IntroductionsEarly Years and Pursuit of GuidingSpecializing in MoThe Draw of MountaineeringThe Connection Between Suffering and AchievementThe Comfort of the WildernessThe Need for a Book on Guiding on EverestThe Counter Narrative to the Negative Perception of EverestQuestioning Who Deserves to Be on EverestThe Romanticism and Judgment of MountaineeringThe Perception of Crowding on EverestThe Difficulty of Defining Who Deserves to Climb EverestThe Individualized Nature of Climbing EverestThe Perspective of Seasoned Everest ClimbersThe Reality of the Sherpa RoleThe Monetization of EverestThe Importance of Seeking the Whole StoryReflections on the Everest IndustryThe State of the Everest IndustryThe Impact of Tourism on EverestThe Experience at Everest Base CampThe Dilemma of Camp 4Balancing Conservation and AccessThe Future of EverestWill's book Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! 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 UpPlanning and Preparing for Backpacking with KidsThe Challenges and Rewards of Backpacking with KidsInvolving Kids in the Planning ProcessBuilding Confidence and Creating Lasting MemoriesThe Future of Outdoor Experiences Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThe Design and Functionality of the Absaroka TP TentPolyester vs Nylon: The Debate in Tent MaterialsInnovation and Thinking Outside the Box in Gear DesignThe Importance of Functionality and Simplicity in Tent DesignThe Demands of the Hunting Community for High-Quality GearBalancing Weight and Functionality in Gear SelectionEncouraging Innovation and Creativity in the Outdoor IndustryPassion for the Outdoors and Enhancing the Outdoor ExperienceWebsiteYouTubeInstagramAbsoroka 4PAbsoroka Full InsertFabric ArticleLast Wild Places FilmSupport the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! 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 trailCreating a diverse menu with foods that you enjoy from home can help maintain energy levels and prevent boredomUnderstanding your caloric needs and eating regularly throughout the day is essential for sustained energy and avoiding bonkingWhile junk food can provide quick energy, it's important to balance it with complex carbohydrates, protein, and fats for optimal performanceTransitioning 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 foodsEat every hour to hour and a half to maintain energy levels throughout the dayConsider freeze-drying your own meals for a lightweight and personalized backpacking experienceKeep a hiking food journal to track what works and what doesn't for future trips Show Notes and Links: Aaron's BackstoryThe Importance of Food in BackpackingCreating a Diverse MenuUnderstanding Caloric IntakeThe Importance of Eating RegularlyThe Pros and Cons of a Junk Food DietTransitioning to a New Diet and Its EffectsEmergency Food and SnacksCustomized Meal Plans Based on Hiking StrategyMaximizing Caloric IntakeCombination FoodsEating for Warmth in Cold WeatherEating on the GoPalette ChangesFreeze DryingFoodie Serviceshttps://backcountryfoodie.com/aff/53/https://www.instagram.com/backcountry_foodiehttps://www.youtube.com/c/BackcountryFoodiehttps://www.facebook.com/backcountryfoodie Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! 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. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]

Text the show! 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 JanelleRec.gov services and missionRecreation before Rec.gov2023 recreational trendsNew features for 2024Addressing no-show campersPost COVID trendsAdvice for booking popular campsitesThe “Trip Builder” featureJanelle’s “why” behind what she doesThe “big picture”Encouraging explorationhttps://www.recreation.gov/Support the show Thanks for listening! Check out the links below to learn more, connect, and support the show. www.byland.co Join the newsletter Beginner backpacking course Support the show [email protected]