Outskirts Overland Podcast

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Summary

In this engaging conversation, Charlie and Tyson discuss their recent experiences at Overland America, highlighting the event's unique atmosphere, family dynamics, and the importance of networking within the overlanding community. They delve into the logistics of leading trails at the upcoming Rendezvous in the Ozarks, emphasizing the need for proper communication gear and navigation tools. The duo shares insights on how to start an overlanding journey, essential gear, and the significance of community and camaraderie in the overlanding lifestyle. In this engaging conversation, Tyson and Charlie discuss their upcoming family...

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Summary

In this episode, Charlie reflects on his recent experience at Overland of America, discussing the community engagement, the evolution of overlanding as a hobby, and his interactions with other creators. He shares insights on the event's amenities, product discoveries, and the importance of building connections within the outdoor community. Charlie also looks forward to upcoming events and plans for future podcasts, emphasizing the value of friendship and shared experiences in the overlanding lifestyle.


Takeaways

Listeners appreciate more frequent podcast episodes.
Overlanding is evolving to...

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In this episode, Charlie shares personal updates about his busy life, including managing family birthdays and the emotional impact of recent losses in the community. He discusses the maintenance of his truck and his plans for upcoming overlanding events, including Overland of America and a trip to the Ozarks. Charlie reflects on the importance of community and the challenges of balancing personal life with his passion for overlanding.

Takeaways

It's been a busy time with family birthdays.
The emotional impact of loss can be profound.<...

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The overlanding community has suffered a tremendous loss with the tragic passing of Matt and Stacey from ToyotaWorldRunners. This episode serves as both a tribute to their incredible legacy and a powerful reminder about life's fragility and unpredictability. Their journey along the Pan-American Highway in their self-built rig inspired countless adventurers, myself included, to pursue dreams rather than postpone them indefinitely.

Throughout this heartfelt conversation, I reflect on how Matt and Stacey's passing connects to broader themes of mental health, self-care, and living deliberately. Their story reminds us that we often...

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The adventure lifestyle often creates a fascinating tension between our wanderlust and our responsibilities at home. This raw, unfiltered episode dives into the reality of balancing frequent overlanding trips with the mundane necessities of maintaining a house and meeting family obligations.

Ever notice how your living space starts to show signs of neglect when you're constantly on the road? From pressure washing siding to repainting shutters and patching air mattress holes caused by an overly enthusiastic dog, the small maintenance tasks pile up when you're spending "at least two nights every...

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In this celebratory episode of Outskirts Overland, the group gathers to celebrate Tyson's birthday and Charlie's milestone of recording his 100th episode. The conversation flows through various themes, including reflections on aging, humorous anecdotes about food and heat challenges, and planning for upcoming camping trips. They share stories of off-roading adventures, the challenges of getting stuck in the wild, and the lessons learned from those experiences. The camaraderie and humor among friends shine through as they reminisce about past trips and gear up for future adventures. In this engaging conversation, the group discusses...

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The value proposition of rooftop tents has become increasingly complex as the market expands, but are premium brands truly worth their hefty price tags? Drawing from my 250+ nights of first-hand experience across multiple tent styles, this raw and honest exploration challenges conventional wisdom about quality versus cost in overlanding equipment.

When I break down my $3,000 tent to a per-night cost over 100 camping outings, the numbers tell a compelling story – one that has me questioning my previous assumptions about investment in premium gear. What's particularly fascinating is how many emerging brands in th...

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The seasons are changing, and with cooler mornings upon us, it's the perfect time to dive into the essential gear maintenance that separates casual campers from seasoned overlanders. 

Every experienced outdoor enthusiast knows the importance of a seasonal gear overhaul - that meticulous process where we clean, treat, and prepare our equipment for the challenges ahead. Throughout this episode, I walk through my comprehensive maintenance routine that keeps my setup ready for whatever Mother Nature throws my way. You'll hear how I treat my fleece gear with Nikwax for water resistance, p...

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The real-world durability of rooftop tents rarely matches the glossy marketing photos. After logging over 100 nights and 400 open-close cycles in my $3,000 tent, I'm sharing some hard-earned wisdom about maintenance, condensation management, and whether premium pricing actually delivers premium performance.

My recent weekend project involved completely resealing and waterproofing my tent after discovering moisture issues. I'll walk you through exactly what products I used (Gear Aid Seam Grip and Nikwax), the techniques that worked, and why this kind of maintenance is inevitable regardless of brand or price point. For those battling condensation...

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How do we decide where to spend our hard-earned money in an increasingly crowded marketplace of overland gear? This question sits at the heart of today's episode, as Charlie pulls back the curtain on his personal approach to making informed purchasing decisions.

Dive into the practical steps every consumer should take before clicking "buy now." From researching company backgrounds and missions to contacting customer service directly, Charlie shares strategies that go beyond simply comparing price points. Learn why browsing LinkedIn profiles of company employees, searching for honest reviews in Facebook groups...

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Step into a world where overlanding meets resort-style amenities at Overland of America, happening September 12-14 in Jay, Oklahoma. This isn't your typical vendors-in-a-field expo – it's a comprehensive experience designed to welcome both seasoned overlanders and families new to the lifestyle.

What makes this event truly unique? Picture yourself floating down a lazy river after shopping premium vendors, or enjoying the film festival featuring renowned creators like Baker Overland and Independence Overland showcased on a 20-foot LED wall in a proper theater-style pavilion. Need to wash your trail clothes? The free la...

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Finding outdoor gear that genuinely delivers on its promises feels like striking gold in today's market. After sweating through a scorching 95-degree camping trip, I've discovered three game-changing products that have revolutionized my outdoor experiences.

The unsung hero of moisture control comes in the form of Snap Safe dehumidifier bags by Hornady. At just $9.99, these reusable silica packets have transformed how I store equipment and maintain my camping fridge. The breakthrough application? Placing them in portable refrigerators after trips prevents the dreaded science experiment of mold and odors. When they've absorbed...

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Dreaming of the open road and a simpler life has me deep-diving into the world of van conversions and full-time mobile living. This isn't just about weekend adventures anymore – it's about reimagining what home means when your address changes with the seasons.

For nearly four years, I've been researching, planning, and gradually working toward transitioning from my beloved Tacoma weekend setup to something that can sustain true nomadic living for years. The options seem endless: Ford Transit vans with high tops, Mercedes Sprinters, truck campers, and every variation in between. Each pl...

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Caught in summer's sweltering grip, the last thing on most campers' minds is cold weather preparation. Yet that's precisely the opportunity hidden in these hot July days – a chance to get ahead of winter while everyone else is simply trying to stay cool.

This episode cuts through conventional wisdom to deliver practical advice about winter camping prep that needs to happen now, not later. I share my three-year experience with diesel heaters, including my summer maintenance routine of running it for three consecutive days at maximum level to burn off soot an...

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When summer hits and temperatures soar, rooftop tent camping can quickly become unbearable. That scorching tent surface and compressed mattress had been making my weekend adventures less comfortable than they should be—until I discovered two surprisingly simple solutions that transformed my experience.

The first breakthrough came unexpectedly. After merely mentioning my plan to wrap my tent top in white vinyl, a friend with a wrap shop offered to do it immediately. For just $100, he transformed my black tent top into a heat-reflecting white surface. The difference was immediate and dramatic. Wh...

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Extreme weather is reshaping our outdoor experiences in unprecedented ways. Witness firsthand how torrential downpours—three inches in just 90 minutes—have transformed familiar trails into unrecognizable crevices, making weekend adventures both challenging and unpredictably beautiful.

Strangely, despite the popularity of overlanding on social media, the trails were remarkably empty throughout the entire weekend. Only three other off-road vehicles appeared across two states and multiple camping locations. This disconnect between perception and reality raises interesting questions about where everyone is going and what's happening in the outdoor community right now.

What...

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Freedom rings through this pre-Fourth of July episode as I reflect on what makes Independence Day my favorite holiday. Unlike celebrations that come with obligations, the Fourth embodies pure American liberty—everyone gets the day off, families gather outdoors, we grill delicious food, and yes, we legally blow stuff up simply because we can. As both a proud veteran and outdoor enthusiast, I cherish how this holiday brings people together through shared appreciation of freedom rather than guilt or obligation.

Speaking of freedom, I'm excited to share that Outskirts apparel is co...

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Reliable communication in the backcountry can be a lifesaver, but with advancing smartphone technology, many adventurers are wondering if dedicated satellite devices are still necessary. After years of recommending satellite communicators like the Zoleo, I decided to put my iPhone 16's satellite features to the test on a recent camping trip.

The results were definitive - and not what many YouTube influencers would have you believe. Despite claims that smartphones have made dedicated satellite communicators obsolete, my real-world experience proved otherwise. The iPhone required awkward positioning to maintain a satellite connection...

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The secret that nobody talks about in the overlanding world is just how expensive serious vehicle builds actually are. In this candid episode, I pull back the curtain on the true costs behind those Instagram-worthy rigs you see online.

My Tacoma represents a $147,000 investment—$36,000 for the truck itself and over $100,000 in modifications, accessories, and equipment built up over years. This isn't unusual in the overlanding community; most YouTube creators you follow likely have $150,000+ in their builds, but rarely discuss these figures openly.

I recently completed a DIY dual battery sy...

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After a brief hiatus from behind the microphone, I'm finally back with updates on where I've been and what's ahead. Life got busy juggling college kids, camping trips, the truck build, work, and everything in between – sometimes we all just need a minute to breathe. While daily episodes might not return, this marks the beginning of a more sustainable podcasting rhythm moving forward.

The break wasn't idle time. I've been up late nights finalizing my Redarc dual battery system in the truck, learning new interview software, and preparing for upcoming events. Th...

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Maintaining outdoor gear is often an afterthought, but as our conversation with Heidi from Nikwax reveals, proper care can transform your adventure experience and save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on replacement equipment.

With sixteen years at Nikwax under her belt, Heidi brings a wealth of knowledge about keeping technical fabrics performing at their best. The company's commitment to environmental responsibility stands out—they've been PFAS-free since 1977, decades before most manufacturers considered eliminating these harmful chemicals. This early start gave Nikwax time to perfect formulations that both protect gear an...

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Life slips by in the blink of an eye. Have you ever wondered if you're filling your days with distractions rather than meaning?

When listeners messaged about missing the podcast and their workdays becoming more boring without it, it sparked deeper thoughts about how we spend our precious time. Many of us sleepwalk through life, trying to emulate others who themselves are playing characters—creating layers of inauthenticity that separate us from genuine fulfillment. But what if we approached each day with critical thought about who we truly are and what we...

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The unexpected weight of words. That's what today's raw, unscripted episode confronts as I find myself at a crossroads with Outskirts Overland. What started as a straightforward platform to discuss overlanding without commercial influence has grown into something that carries unanticipated emotional consequences.

I've always been direct—when I say something, I mean exactly what I say, nothing more and nothing less. There's no subtext, no veiled criticism of friends or fellow creators, just literal statements and observations. Yet as listenership has grown, so have the misinterpretations and assumed intentions behind my...

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Ever found yourself in a muddy mess with no way out? The latest adventure of Outskirts Overland takes you straight into the chaotic heart of a corporate camping trip gone soggy. When relentless rain transformed a lakeside campground into a mud pit, what started as a simple family outing became a master class in preparedness and recovery techniques.

As minivans sank to their axles and even professional tow trucks became stranded, Charlie's foresight and equipment made him the unexpected hero of the weekend. Using his truck's winch, he rescued multiple vehicles...

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What happens when a thriving community begins to lose its soul? In this heartfelt reflection, we journey back to the early days of vehicle-based adventure, before hashtags and affiliate links dominated the landscape. I share the transformative moment when, as a young gym trainer in Lake Tahoe, complete strangers took my stock Dodge Dakota and returned it lifted with new tires—simply because that's what the community did then.

This remarkable act of generosity shaped my entire approach to overlanding. While today's space has evolved into a sophisticated marketplace where partnerships an...

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No pod today go over to Youtube and watch my video @OutskirtsOverland

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Ever found yourself caught in a downpour with inadequate gear, watching helplessly as water finds its way into every corner of your camp setup? Today's episode tackles the complete arsenal of strategies for conquering wet weather in the overlanding world.

We dive deep into the science of waterproofing with a comprehensive look at NikWax products – that two-part system that not only eliminates mildew smell but dramatically improves your gear's water-repellent properties. You'll learn exactly how to apply these treatments to maximize protection for everything from tents and awnings to your favorite ca...

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Something significant is happening in the adventure travel content space. We're witnessing what appears to be the first major transition in overlanding social media since the massive boom of 2020-2021, and it's creating a strange new landscape for both creators and enthusiasts.

Remember when overlanding content was created by experienced adventurers simply documenting their existing lifestyle? Those voices that taught us valuable skills and inspired us to explore are becoming increasingly rare. Many have disappeared entirely or drastically reduced their output. In their place, a new generation of content creators has...

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Dive into the refreshingly honest reality of balancing outdoor adventures with family life in this candid episode that captures the beautiful chaos behind the Instagram-perfect overlanding photos.

Ever tried to negotiate sleeping arrangements between three kids who all want the prime spot in your rooftop tent? That's just one of the diplomatic challenges I'm navigating as I prepare for a family camping weekend. The rooftop tent versus ground tent debate has already sparked sibling rivalry a week before departure, highlighting how overlanding with children requires an entirely different planning approach than...

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Ever wondered what would happen if someone combined a serious overland event with a family resort vacation? That's exactly what we're exploring today as I share my excitement about Overland of America – a revolutionary approach to overlanding events that considers the whole family, not just the driver.

Unlike traditional overland gatherings that often mean dust, heat, and limited amenities, this event offers something unique: technical trails and gear shopping alongside pools, splash pads, and lazy rivers. It's what I'm calling "country club overlanding" – and while that might sound contradictory to the rugg...

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Maintenance isn't just a recommendation—it's a survival strategy when you're miles from civilization with no backup plan. Today we dive deep into the often-overlooked but absolutely critical world of proper vehicle and equipment care for those who push their gear to the limits.

Approaching 100,000 miles on my 2020 Toyota Tacoma has me reflecting on what it takes to keep a vehicle running strong through extreme conditions. From winch maintenance rituals that prevent catastrophic failures during recovery operations to the religious checking of grade 8 hardware that holds critical components together—these aren't opti...

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Ever had that moment when your favorite camping gear starts to let you down? After a year with my rooftop tent, the once-comfortable mattress began causing back pain by day three of every trip. Rather than shell out thousands for a completely new setup, I found myself hunting for that elusive middle-ground solution that wouldn't empty my bank account.

This search led me down a rabbit hole of product availability issues, questionable online shopping practices, and eventually to a surprisingly perfect solution from a company I wasn't initially considering. The adventure...

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Ever wonder what it takes to run a daily overland podcast? In this candid episode, Charlie pulls back the curtain on the journey of building Outskirts Overland while juggling family life, education, and career commitments.

Breaking exciting news, Charlie announces his acceptance as an official creator for Overland of America in Jay, Oklahoma. This milestone represents a significant step forward for the podcast, offering listeners a special 10% discount with code OUTSKIRTS10. Mark your calendars for a special live podcast next Wednesday at 6pm CST featuring the event organizers who'll share everything...

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Ever had that frustrating moment when you're miles from nowhere and your call drops right as your kid is sharing their exciting news? That's exactly why connectivity solutions like WeBoost have become game-changers for the modern overlander.

In this deeply practical episode, we dive into how signal boosters are revolutionizing remote travel without the ongoing costs of satellite systems. Unlike subscription services, these one-time purchases work seamlessly to amplify existing signals – whether you're streaming Thursday Night Football from deep in the woods or maintaining crystal-clear business calls in rural areas. The va...

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The overlanding landscape is shifting beneath our feet. After years of explosive growth, vehicle-based adventure travel appears to be evolving into something different - but what exactly? 

I've noticed Instagram becoming the primary platform for overlanders, with polished photos replacing in-depth travel videos. Meanwhile, trailer builds gain popularity as traditional vehicle-based overlanding seems to recede. Most concerning is seeing countless pristine builds with all the latest gear showing no signs of actual use. Real equipment tells stories through its patina and witness marks - something missing from many showcase builds now a...

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Ever faced the frustrating discovery of completely frozen food in your camping fridge? That's exactly what happened to a friend recently—and it's a common problem with an easy solution. In this rambling road chat, I share the essential practice of pre-cooling your camping cooler or fridge before trips, especially during hot weather. This simple step prevents thermostat malfunctions that can freeze everything solid while draining your battery.

The conversation meanders through personal updates, including my Subaru getting hit twice in one week (yes, twice!) and my weekend truck modifications. After so...

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Have you ever wondered why so many people exit the overlanding community after just a couple of years? Despite the explosion of overlanding content on social media and the apparent accessibility of the hobby, most enthusiasts quietly disappear before they've truly established themselves in the lifestyle.

Drawing from two decades of overlanding experience, I dive deep into this fascinating phenomenon. The harsh reality is that building competence in this hobby takes significantly more time than most are willing or able to commit. Between life changes, financial considerations, and the stark difference...

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Have you ever considered that cleaning your overlanding rig after an adventure might be just as important as checking your oil or tire pressure? After returning from a muddy trail run with multiple water crossings, I noticed my truck giving me some trouble starting – and it got me thinking about how vehicle cleaning is one of the most undervalued forms of maintenance in the overlanding community.

In this candid discussion, I take you through my complete post-adventure cleaning process, from the initial rinse to remove loose debris through the application of sp...

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Have you ever considered how much more value you could squeeze from your overland investment? In this enlightening episode, Charlie from Outskirts Overland breaks down the unexpected ways your adventure gear can transform everyday life, making those expensive purchases easier to justify to both yourself and skeptical family members.

Charlie takes us beyond obvious uses of overland equipment, revealing how fridges aren't just for camping but perfect for keeping groceries cold during errands, storing cold drinks at kids' sports events, and eliminating the rush to get home before ice cream melts...

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Ever had that moment when your fully equipped off-road rig sinks deeper into mud precisely because of those fancy new lockers? Charlie from Outskirts Overland shares his recent adventure through the Ozarks where exactly that happened – water flooding his floorboards as his truck settled into unexpected mud.

The weekend trip featured breathtaking scenery around the Buffalo River, with an unusually lush, rainforest-like landscape following recent rainfall. Charlie navigated multiple water crossings, including one dramatic moment when water surged over his hood. Despite the challenges, his truck performed admirably with its new mo...