Hiker Trash Radio

Outside Magazine called Michael Wardian "perhaps the world's most prolific distance runner" and named him one of their 2020 Outsiders of the Year. Michael sits down with Doc and talks about FKTs, running seven marathons on seven continents in seven days, winning the Quarantine Backyard Ultra (262.5 miles and 63 hours!), and his two stints in . . . THE BARKLEY MARATHONS!

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/hikertrashradio/support

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this edition of The Logbook, Doc takes on The Trail Provides by Miller Hollstein.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Doc interviews Claire “Honeybee” Damon, a Wisconsin thru-hiker of the AT and PCT with diverse 2026 plans.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Doc interviews Claire “Honeybee” Damon, a Wisconsin thru-hiker of the AT and PCT with diverse 2026 plans.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Doc talks with retired Marine SgtMaj Jean-Paul Courville (IBEX), author of Forward On: Warrior to Wanderer. They compare military structure to trail routines, discuss relearning dormant lessons, and the challenge of sharing AT stories with non-hikers. Courville contrasts the AT with the Haute Route and Camino de Santiago, recommends the film The Way, supports the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, suggests using an Ursack, and highlights poor sleep as an overlooked thru-hike difficulty.

https://linktr.ee/jeanpaul.courville?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

Doc welcomes guest Jean-Paul Courville (“Ibex”), a retired Marine who completed a 2,200-mile solo Appalachian Trail thru-hike in 2022 as a “personal audit” to confront combat memories, leadership failures, and life after the uniform. They discuss mental endurance, trail culture as an equalizer, leadership by example, and lessons from adversity.

https://linktr.ee/jeanpaul.courville?utm_source=linktree_profile_share

In a special bonus episode of Classic Doc this week, Doc takes a hike through the legendary High Trips of the Sierra Club.

Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/hikertrashradio/support

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this week's episode of The Logbook, Doc takes on an all-time AT classic, As Far As the Eye Can See by David Brill.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Doc interviews Liz “Night Owl” Pfeifer about earning her trail name by visiting shelters at night, preparing from 2020 to her 2025 AT thru-hike, and managing anxiety before starting at Amicalola Falls. She discusses solo safety perceptions, delayed social media, and finishing after a July 23 ankle sprain in the Hundred Mile Wilderness (summit Aug 26). Liz shares marriage logistics, “new material,” Trail Dog & Company women-focused glam-packing trips (Hot Springs, Damascus, Yellowstone), hiking hacks, book pick “Hartwood,” volunteer causes, and a humorous “be a good girl” dog misunderstanding.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collec...

Doc hosts Liz “Night Owl” Pfeifer, an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker and owner/lead guide of Trail Dog and Company. Liz shares the shift from hiking for herself to motivating clients, her strengths (bad-weather resilience, animal connection) and a key weakness learned from pushing miles and spraining an ankle in the 100-Mile Wilderness. She highlights her go-to gear (a Hyperlite Versa fanny pack), guiding on the AT and in Yellowstone, safety tips like keeping three rocks by the tent, and how she left corporate sales to pursue guiding and community on trail.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz comp...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc sits down with JoHanna 'Press Pass' Garton, an accomplished author and high school cross country coach. Johanna shares her compelling journey of completing her mother's research on high-altitude mountaineer Christine Boskoff, leading to her book 'Edge of the Map.' The discussion delves into the intricate relationships, grueling search and rescue missions, and personal challenges she faced. Johanna also speaks on her friendships with Heather Anderson and Christine Reed, the logistics of her research in China, and her adventure writing retreats in Costa Rica.

Hosted by Simplecast...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews guest Johanna Garton, known as 'Press Pass,' a journalist, cross-country coach, and author of 'Edge of the Map.' Joanna shares her insights on high-altitude research, the importance of in-person experiences, and the lessons she's learned from female mountaineers. The discussion covers topics such as high school cross-country coaching, the value of the process over the destination, and how to push through mental and physical barriers.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal...

Settle in a buckle up as Jared Campbell, the four-time finisher of the Barkley Marathons, drops into the studio to share some epic stories and insights from this year's running of the world's toughest ultra. Take notes and earn college credit from Hiker Trash Radio University as Jared shares how he knows when he's ready mentally and physically for the race, his toughest moments from his eight attempts, his favorite moment from Frozen Head, how he got lost on Loop 5 this year (twice!), and the high drama that took place after his finish. Unforgettable.

Hosted by...

In this edition of The Logbook, Doc takes on Take Less, Do More by Glen Van Peski.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc sits down with ultra-runner Ria to discuss her ambitious plan to run 20,000 kilometers from Vladivostok in Russia to Lisbon in Portugal. Ria delves into her extensive preparations, the challenges of planning such an immense journey, and the importance of community support, including her team of volunteers. She also shares insights from her previous ultra-running experiences, particularly her Fastest Known Time (FKT) achievement on the Camino Francis in Spain. Additionally, listeners learn about Ria's motivations, her struggles with learned helplessness, and how running has empowered her. Ria also talks about her...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, Doc welcomes Ria, an ex-Silicon Valley tech worker turned ultrarunner, who is training for an ambitious endurance project: a 20,000-kilometer run across the ancient Silk Road from Vladivostok to Lisbon. Ria shares her journey from battling depression and a quarter-life crisis to completing remarkable feats like running through Egypt and achieving an FKT on the Camino de Santiago. They discuss her preparation for the daunting challenge, the symbolic significance of the Silk Road, her worst mistake on an excursion, the most vital piece of gear she relies on, and her insights into...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Bethany Adams, also known as Pink Lightning, about her fascinating journey as a hiker and author. Bethany shares insights from her book 'Unsupported,' which details her experiences climbing the ADK 46 peaks, overcoming personal challenges, and addressing mental health issues. They discuss the origins of her superhero moniker, her writing journey, and the importance of small successes. Bethany also talks about the process of finding a publisher and the themes of women empowerment and healing in nature that are central to her book. They wrap up with practical hiking...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc welcomes back Bethany Adams, also known by her trail name Pink Lightning. Bethany discusses her new memoir 'Unsupported' which delves into her experiences with the Adirondack 46 High Peaks, the struggles in her life, and her journey through resilience. The episode also includes discussions on the importance of failing before succeeding, the healing power of nature, and the challenges she faced while writing her book. Additionally, Bethany shares insight into winter hiking gear and discusses misconceptions about female endurance athletes.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm...

On this edition of The Logbook, Doc takes a dive into Mud, Rocks, Blazes by Heather "Anish" Anderson!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Doc welcomes French hiker and 2026 Continental Divide Trail correspondent JB Savereux to Hiker Trash Radio as JB prepares to start the CDT southbound from Glacier National Park on July 1. JB talks about taking daily English lessons to communicate on trail, reflects on completing New Zealand’s Te Araroa as rugged, wet preparation, and explains choosing the CDT as his first American long trail for its border-to-border route and fewer crowds compared to the PCT. They discuss his comfort with mountains from living and working in the French Alps, his ultralight shift in gear culture, and his new 3.7 kg ba...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Philip 'Slide' Witmer, who has achieved the remarkable feat of completing the Calendar Year Triple Crown. Slide shares his journey from his early hiking experiences to becoming a highly experienced thru-hiker. He talks about his adventures on the Appalachian Trail (AT), the Continental Divide Trail (CDT), and the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), as well as the challenges and rewards he faced along the way. Slide offers insights into trail life, the importance of listening to the trail, and his plan to hike more trails in the future. The episode...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Philip 'Slide' Witmer, a Calendar Year Triple Crowner who has hiked an astounding 10,000 miles in 2025. The episode delves into Slide's experiences, challenges, and insights from the trail, including his least expected hardships like intense loneliness, the mental and physical toll of long-distance hiking, and gear mishaps. Slide shares amusing anecdotes, including how he got his trail name and his worst hiker trash moments. The conversation also covers Slide's favorite gear, his culinary preferences on the trail, and the lessons he learned along the way. Listeners will get a detailed...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Miller 'Mander' Hollstein, an author and thru hiker of the Appalachian Trail. Miller shares his transformative journey of self-discovery, dealing with struggles, and seeking solitude on the trail. He discusses the struggles that led him to undertake this journey, the challenges and surprises he encountered, and how he moved from feeling lost to finding alignment within himself. The episode delves into Mander's writing process, his philosophies on coaching, and the powerful life lessons he learned through hiking and writing. This episode offers not only a personal narrative but also...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc speaks with Miller 'Mander' Hollstein, a thru hiker and author who completed the Appalachian Trail (AT) in 2023. Mander discusses his transition from college athletics to hiking, dealing with identity shifts, post-trail depression, and his most hiker trash moments. He also shares insights from his book and upcoming coaching business, aimed at helping others navigate life changes. The episode dives deep into Mander's personal experiences, including battling norovirus on the trail, hiking mistakes, and the lessons learned from his adventure.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm...

On this week's edition of The Logbook, Doc dives into Thru-Hiking Will Break Your Heart by Carrot Quinn!

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Host Doc welcomes Jared “Fisherman” Lampal to Hiker Trash Radio as the show’s 2026 Continental Divide Trail correspondent. Jared, 27, is working a full-time desk job in Washington, DC while preparing for an extended leave to thru-hike the CDT northbound, starting April 20 from Lordsburg, New Mexico, with a goal of finishing by mid-to-late September and returning to work by October 1.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc speaks with photojournalist and conflict zone photographer Jacob Zocherman. Jacob shares his riveting journey from wanting to be a doctor to becoming a photojournalist who documents conflict zones and humanitarian crises worldwide. He recounts his experiences in places such as Haiti, South Sudan, and Ukraine, highlighting the challenges and motivations behind his work. Jacob also discusses his iconic photography at the Barkley Marathons, emphasizing the unique challenges of capturing endurance events. Tune in to hear Jacob's incredible tales of adventure, his approach to risk assessment in dangerous areas, and his...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews internationally acclaimed photojournalist and war photographer, Jacob Zocherman. Jacob discusses the intersection of his professional work in conflict zones with his personal passion for ultrarunning, particularly his experiences documenting the brutal Barkley Marathons. They delve into Jacob's journey through PTSD, his approach to both photography and running, and the challenges of renovating a 200-year-old farm. Listen in as Jacob shares insights about capturing human struggle, both on and off the trail.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc sits down with Brian 'Buck-30' Tanzman, a prolific thru hiker who has hiked over 56,000 miles. Known for completing all 11 National Scenic Trails and being a double Triple Crowner, Brian shares captivating stories from his many adventures, discusses the evolution of hiking culture and gear, and reveals his unique approach to balancing professional life as a CPA with his hiking passion. Touching on the challenges of lesser-known trails and his upcoming plans, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights for both seasoned hikers and those new to the trail...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Brian 'Buck-30' Tanzman, a prolific thru hiker with over 56,000 miles under his belt and titles of double triple crowner. Brian shares stories from his extensive hiking experience, including a hilarious anecdote about a mix-up with his partner in the Diamond Range and a memorable hitchhiking encounter. Along the way, Brian recalls his worst gear mistake, favorite trail stretches, and a shocking hiker trash moment. He also reflects on how he got started in the hiking world, thanks to a chance reading of an Appalachian Trail article. The episode...

Doc hosts a Barkley bonus episode with returning guest Damian Hall. Hall recounts his Barkley attempts in 2023 and 2024 where he reached loop five both times, then 2026’s earliest start, freezing rain, and dense fog, where he completed two loops before turning back on loop three due to cold, wet, navigation time loss, and safety concerns. He discusses course changes since 2025, race math and margins, a barefoot creek crossing, and his April 9 book “Run Forever” on staying strong into middle age.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Dana 'Sniper' Wolf, a Triple Crowner preparing for a formidable 2026 Appalachian Trail yo-yo hike. Dana recounts her noteworthy hiking journey starting in 2007, discusses the rookie mistakes she made, and reveals how her trail name came to be. She also shares insights into her extensive preparations for the upcoming adventure, reflecting on the gear evolution over the years, and offers advice to her younger self. Dana's story is a testament to resilience and determination, promising to inspire hikers and explorers alike.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Alexandra 'Sunshine' Kenin, the founder of Urban Hikers SF, and author of three urban hiking books. Sunshine shares her journey from working at Google to exploring San Francisco's urban trails. She talks about her tour company, her books, and her unique projects like the 1,000+ Stairways map of San Francisco. Sunshine also discusses her international hiking experiences, balancing life with urban hiking, and offers practical hiking tips.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc welcomes Alexandra 'Sunshine' Kenin, founder of Urban Hiker SF and author of three Urban Trails Guidebooks. Alexandra shares her experiences of exploring and mapping over 1,000 public stairways in San Francisco, including memorable adventures and the challenges of urban hiking. She discusses the differences between urban and wilderness hikes, her favorite gear, and reveals the secrets to finding world-class adventures right outside your door. Listeners will also get insights into her background and the importance of preparation for successful hiking.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews adventurer Justin Banmen about his global travels. Justin shares his concept of 'side quests' compared to traditional vacations and highlights his journeys to destinations like Kurdistan, Kazakhstan, Iraq, and India. He recounts unique experiences like hitchhiking in dump trucks and solo camping in remote locations. Justin discusses his thrifty travel habits, unexpected support from locals, and future plans to hitchhike from Peru to Patagonia. He also provides practical travel tips, inspiration from adventure literature, and his views on global kindness and misunderstanding.

Hosted by Simplecast, an...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Justin Banmen, the mastermind behind the Side Quest project. Justin shares his unconventional approach to adventure, from running a marathon around a Denny's to hiking with a laptop. Tune in to hear about his travels across five continents, his philosophy of minimal planning, and the intriguing challenges that make his side quests unique. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a curious novice, this episode offers a fresh perspective on embracing the unknown and finding adventure in everyday life.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Nick Gagnon, also known as Chezwick, who recently set the Fastest Known Time (FKT) for the calendar year Triple Crown in 2025. Nick passionately discusses the integrity of thru-hiking, emphasizing the difference between purist thru-hikers and those who skip challenging sections of the trail. He shares his personal experiences, encounters, and challenges faced during his record-setting journey. Nick also sheds light on the importance of water accessibility and promotes the Chris Long Foundation’s the Water Boys initiative. Additionally, he offers practical hiking hacks and reflects on the camaraderie, struggles, an...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, Doc welcomes back Nick 'Chezwick' Gagnon, who recently set a self-supported fastest known time (FKT) for the Calendar Year Triple Crown. Gagnon shares his experiences and challenges, from his rigorous daily 40-mile goals and battling the elements, to planning logistics for such an ambitious hike. Gagnon also reflects on his 2024 setback and his triumphant return in 2025. This episode is packed with insights on thru-hiking, the mental and physical demands of setting an FKT, and some truly hiker trash moments.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com...

In this bonus episode of Hiker Trash Radio, Doc interviews future PCT trail correspondent Austin Goehring. Austin shares his unique journey from growing up in Bakersfield, California, to working at Disney for eight years, transitioning to a career in human resources, and finally his decision to thru-hike the PCT in 2026. They discuss Austin's passion for the outdoors, the challenges of balancing a corporate career with adventurous pursuits, and how he plans to combine his HR expertise with his love for hiking in his upcoming book 'The HR's Guide to Hiking.' Tune in to hear about his preparations, motivations...

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Kyle Matthews, also known as 'The Milky Runner'. Kyle shares the experiences of his recent run around the perimeter of Britain, detailing how he embarked on this adventurous journey without extensive training. Despite numerous challenges, including inclement weather, physical injuries, and the logistical difficulties of carrying a heavy backpack during the runs, Kyle pushed on for four months. This personal journey, motivated by a desire to raise funds for Family Action, reveals Kyle's resilience and determination. He discusses the scenic beauty of Britain, his learnings, his challenges, and his...