EP 17: Michael Langer: Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail

Description

Today on episode 17 I want to give a very warm welcome to my guest Michael Langer, who along with his girlfriend Kenzie, walked away from lucrative engineering careers in Houston, Texas and moved into a van. Only months later, seemingly on a whim, they smashed the Pacific Crest Trail, hiking over 2,600 miles across California, Oregon, and Washington.

Today we will hear Michael’s perspective on this wild and unexpected journey, but it doesn’t end there. Next week stay tuned for an interview with Kenzie King, who shares her own unique perspective and motivations for their abrupt shift in lifestyle. After all, it takes a special couple to trade a solid paycheck for a heavy pack and mosquitos for five months.

Topics Discussed with Michael Langer:

Desire to leave well-paying jobs in Houston, TX and travel in a van
The financial dilemma of saying “I quit.” More on how Michael and Kenzie funded their journey.
Mental health and the need for a break
Exposing who we really are
How Michael and Kenzie hiked the entire PCT having only backpacked three consecutive nights!
Logistical considerations of hiking the PCT (gear, re-supply points, pack weight, day-in-the-life routines)
Transition from the trail to society: culture shock and finding meaningful work
Stories from the trail: people, weather, and wildlife
Why Michael doesn’t see van living as a long-term way of life

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