Shows
Just Trek Podcast#88 | Roadsurfin' to California’s Most Legendary Landscapes: An Unforgettable Camper Van Adventure to Yosemite National Park & The Mighty Eastern Sierra | Narrated by Justin "Justroc" RimonOn this episode, I share my unforgettable roadsurfer, roadtrip adventure with my hiking crewmate to two of California's most legendary landscapes: Yosemite National Park and the Eastern Sierra. Come hop in the camper van and join us on this journey that spanned over 5 days of exploration: traversing landscapes such as Red Rock Canyon State Park, Mono Lake, Tioga Pass, Tuolumne Meadows, Mount Whitney Portal, HWY 395, and much more. Along the way, we experienced the freedom of van life with highlights including alpine lake plunges, epic high elevation treks, camping beneath desert cliffs & alien rock formations, and a r...2025-07-1555 min
Just Trek Podcast#87 | Empowering Women To Thrive Outside, Breaking Barriers & Finding Freedom In Nature, The Birth Of Way Out Wild, From Tropical Island Sports To Mountain Summits w/ Nikki Taylor aka Adventure PeaOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, backpacker, outdoor guide & safety instructor, wilderness first responder, wild keeper, and founder of Way Out Wild, Nikki Taylor aka Adventure Pea, joins me on the show. We chatted about Nikki’s first hiking memories, her journey from the Philippines to Colorado to Los Angeles, the diverse outdoor experiences she fell in love with, the origin story to creating Way Out Wild, female empowerment through outdoor adventures, their REI meet & greet experience, her top trails in California, her special connection with On Trail With, hosting outdoor safety cla...2025-07-042h 14
Just Trek Podcast#86 | Outdoor Evolution: From Trekker to Naturalist with Juan Flowers aka The Brown NaturalistFor episode 86, I recorded with past guest Juan Flowers who is a big brother to many in the SoCal outdoor community including myself. Juan is a SoCal based trekker, backpacker, community leader, mental health advocate, certified California naturalist, and is the founder of Outdoor Adventures+ and the Urban Youth Nature Project. Back in the beginning of March, we decided to do an impromptu recording literally right before hosting our final Nature’s Palette educational group hike in Vasquez Rocks which is located in Agua Dulce, California (just 45 minutes outside of LA). It is a hi...2025-06-0633 min
Just Trek Podcast#85 | The Spirit of Exploration: Kenzie Smith’s Backpacking Journey with HIGHLANDER Adventure, Global Hiking + Backpacking Festival Makes Its Grand Return To SoCal's Big Bear Lake ParadiseOn this episode I have Utah based adventure enthusiast, outdoor podcaster, content creator, backpacker, Vice President of Responsible Stewardship, and HIGHLANDER Adventure ambassador, Kenzie Smith, join me on the show. In this special event edition episode, we chatted about all things related to HIGHLANDER Adventure and the upcoming Big Bear Lake hiking + backpacking festival going down from June 17-21 here in Southern California. We talked about how Kenzie first discovered HIGHLANDER Adventure and became an ambassador, the five different epic event formats participants can choose from, what’s included in each registration, Kenzie’s most...2025-05-201h 11
Just Trek Podcast#84 | Rediscovering the Forgotten: Uncovering The Magic of BLM Land, Releasing “The Enduring Wild,” Jaw Dropping Wildlife Encounters, and How Public Lands Are Under The Greatest Threat w/ Josh JacksonOn this episode I have LA based trekker, writer, photographer, conservationist, and leading voice of public lands managed by BLM, Josh Jackson of Forgotten Lands Project, join me on the show. We chatted about Josh’s first meaningful memories out in nature, why he moved from the Midwest to the West Coast, what sparked his deep love for BLM land, the origin story to creating the Forgotten Lands Project and the inspiration behind “The Enduring Wild,” his top 3 BLM lands in California, tips for exploring these forgotten and remote landscapes, his recent Superbloom camping trip wi...2025-05-092h 04
Just Trek Podcast#83 | Exclusive Recording From The 5 Year Anniversary Live Podcast Show feat. Nicole Snell, Victor Martinez, Jaclyn Cosgrove, Joshua Walker, and moderated by Justin "Justroc" RimonOn this episode, I release the full recording from our third ever live podcast show. It was filmed at the Just Trek Podcast 5 Year Anniversary celebration on Sat, April 5th at the Happier Cafe by TADAA.Coffee space in Frogtown, Los Angeles. The live podcast show featured an all star panel of previous podcast guests that included Joshua Walker (outdoor content creator + travel blogger), Nicole Snell (CEO of Girls Right Back, Founder of Outdoor Defense), Victor Martinez (Founder of The LA Trail Killers), and Jaclyn Cosgrove (Outdoor Reporter at the LA Times), and myself as the moderator. It was a...2025-04-221h 18
Just Trek Podcast#82 | Traversing Time: Reaching The Podcast's 5 Year Milestone, Most Memorable Outdoor Recording, and Reflecting On The Podcasting Journey with Justin "Justroc" RimonOn this solo episode, I share my feelings on reaching the big 5 year anniversary milestone of the show. Join me on a trek down memory lane as I share how we celebrated past podcast anniversaries, my most memorable outdoor recording, and my reflections on the podcasting journey. I even received a surprise voice message from one of our most legendary guests on the show which was a very heartwarming message. Thank you everyone for all your support these past 5 years. Your support has meant the world to me. If you are local to the...2025-03-3116 min
Just Trek Podcast#81 | The Art Of Trekking & Outdoor Reporting For The LA Times, The Impact Of The LA Fire Crisis & National Park Mass Firings, Outdoor Survival Stories and "The Wild" Legacy with Jaclyn CosgroveOn this episode I have LA based trekker and outdoor reporter for the LA Times, Jaclyn Cosgrove (they/them), join me on the show. We chatted about Jaclyn's emotions towards the historic LA fire crisis that ravaged entire urban communities, the impact of the National Park mass firings + park protests, outdoor survival stories, how their brother’s passing led to their transformative hiking journey, completing the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge, their experience being the writer for the LA Times The Wild outdoor newsletter, their top trails in SoCal, hiking hacks & outdoor tips, their desire to explore the Backbone tr...2025-03-182h 08
Just Trek Podcast#80 | Revitalizing Tribal Culture, Chumash Powered Canoe Crossings to Channel Islands, Presiding Over Mountain Lion P-22's Burial, Indigenous Insights, The Importance Of Storytelling with Alan SalazarOn this episode I have Ventura based native storyteller & educator, tribal spiritual adviser, Native American activist, Chumash canoe paddler, and tribal elder in the Fernandeno Tataviam & Ventureno Chumash tribes, Alan Salazar, join me on the show. He is an absolute living legend for his contributions to Native American heritage and education. We chat about his first meaningful memories out in nature, how his father played a major role in him embracing his indigenous roots at a young age,, top mountains & trails in SoCal, the importance of revitalizing tribal culture along with wildlife and native plants, what the C...2025-03-042h 18
Just Trek Podcast#79 | Dog Influencer Steals Trek Spotlight, Winning Top Episode of 2024, Cherished Trail Memories With Her Dogs, Mount Rainier & El Salvador Explorations, and Hiking Rocky Peak Summit with TomasaFor episode 79, I recorded with previous guest and fan favorite, Tomasa aka @iamoneness11, at Rocky Peak Summit in the Santa Susanna mountains in Los Angeles County. Even her beloved golden retriever named Miso joins us on the pod! Tomasa is a SoCal based trekker, peak bagger, backpacker, outdoor content creator, solo female world traveler, and was our Top Spotify Episode of 2024. We chatted about her cherished trail memories with her dogs, her emotions winning the top episode of 2024 award, her impressions of Rocky Peak summit trail, how 2024 was a challenging year for her, recents travels to Washington State, and...2025-02-1137 min
Just Trek Podcast#78 | Trekking The Tropics: Adventuring Through The Philippine Islands, From Climbing Iconic Peaks To Scuba Diving Majestic Ocean Floors, And Finding Freedom Outdoors with Simon GuintoOn this episode I have Philippines based adventure enthusiast, climber, trekker, dirt biker, scuba diver, model, and director, Simon Guinto, join me on the show.
We chatted about his favorite outdoor adventure activities, why he moved from the US to the Philippines, his most memorable climb, summiting & trail running Mount Pulag - the tallest mountain on Luzon island & third tallest peak in the Philippines, his sunrise experience with the LA Trail Killers, his travels to the magical island of Palawan, how the Philippines natural landscapes differ from the rest of the world, getting inked...2025-01-2844 min
Just Trek Podcast#77 | The Most Devastating Wildfire in Los Angeles History ~ Narrated by Justin "Justroc" RimonOn this solo episode, I share my raw thoughts and emotions of currently experiencing the most devastating wildfire in Los Angeles history. We have lost so many iconic trails, businesses, and entire densely populated neighborhoods have been scorched to the ground. At least 150,000 Angelenos have evacuated their homes, over 40,000 acres burned, over 12,000 structures destroyed, and at least 27 deaths.
This monologue takes take you through the first 7 days of the fire and what it feels like to live through this historic ongoing crisis as an Angeleno who has rediscovered the city through the Great Outdoors and the local mo...2025-01-1741 min
Just Trek Podcast#76 | Overcoming Adversity On An Iconic Colorado 14er, Sunrise At Garden Of The Gods, Riding The Highest Elevation Rollercoaster In North America, From Peaks to Wedding Parties with JustrocOn this episode, I share my wild and action packed adventures through Colorado’s Rocky Mountain landscapes and Denver’s urban sprawl.
Join me on this unforgettable trip that included overcoming adversity & summiting an iconic Colorado 14er, trekking a section of the Continental divide trail, thrilling rides on a mountaintop adventure park, visiting one of the most legendary outdoor concert venues int he world, Denver urban explorations, underground cave sauna, sunrise at Garden of the Gods, and even high altitude wedding celebrations for an OG member of the #JustTrekCrew.
Follow us on IG instagram.com/just...2024-12-311h 07
Just Trek Podcast#75 | Trail Blazing Through The Driest Place On Earth & The Grand Canyon, Swimming w/ Whale Sharks, Summiting Half Dome, Exploring The Philippines, Costa Rica, France, and Chile w/ Victor MartinezFor episode 75, I recorded an adventure banger of a show with fan favorite, Victor Martinez, at Kenneth Hahn State Park in Los Angeles. Victor is a SoCal based trekker, trail runner, backpacker, solo world traveler, Highlander Adventure ambassador, Merrell ambassador, community leader, and is the founder of the LA Trail Killers. Victor was also our EP 37 and EP 55 guest on the show!
I caught up with Victor and we chatted about all his unforgettable adventures from trail running Rim to Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon, summiting Half Dome in Yosemite on his...2024-12-172h 05
Just Trek Podcast#74 | Trek Talks: Cooking Up Mouth Watering Gourmet Dishes In The Great Outdoors and Vlogging The Best Trails & Hidden Gems in California w/ Joseph Durkin aka The Hiking Chef**VIDEO VERSION ONLY AVAILABLE ON SPOTIFY APP + YOUTUBE CHANNEL , all other streaming platforms are audio versions**
For episode 74, I recorded a special and impromptu trail conversation with Joseph Durkin aka The Hiking Chef in the Angeles National Forest in LA County. Joseph is a SoCal based hiker, professional chef & baker, outdoor content creator, and is the creator of the amazing YouTube channel The Hiking Chef. We chatted about the origin story of The Hiking Chef YouTube vlog series, his most memorable gourmet meals he’s cooked in the mountains, why California has the best hiking opportunities, the his...2024-11-1230 min
Just Trek Podcast#73 | The Power Of Climbing, Rekindling The Human-Nature Connection Through Trace Club, From Soldier To Exploring New Summits, and Moving with Intention with Christian de la TorreOn this episode I have LA based adventure enthusiast, climber, military veteran, actor, TV personality, content creator, and Founder CEO of Trace Club, Christian de la Torre, join me on the show.
We chat about his first meaningful outdoor memories, the origin story to creating Trace Club, top outdoor destinations in California, outdoor tips & tricks, hosting a park nature cleanup series, how we first met on a sunset group trek , our first community collab event at Trail Canyon Falls in the Angeles National Forest, our second community collab event at the historic Nike Missile Site in the...2024-10-222h 42
Just Trek Podcast#72 | Escaping to Solitude: My Solo Adventure to Channel Islands National ParkOn this episode I share my magical solo adventure of exploring Channel Islands National Park for the first time ever. It is California's most underrated island, one of the least visited national parks in the entire country, and is considered the Galapagos Islands of North America.
Join me on this action packed day trip that included wildlife sightings, choppy boat rides, an epic 10 mile trek, and almost ended with me being stranded on the island. What made this trip even more special was that I did it spontaneously during my birthday week.
Support Ju...2024-08-0639 min
Just Trek Podcast#71 | Dancing On Top Of The World's Most Iconic Mountain Peaks, The Art of Summit Shuffling, The Intersection of Dance & Mountaineering with Brett Patrontasch aka Summit ShufflerOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, climber, peak bagger, mountaineer, and mountain dancer, Brett Patrontasch aka Summit Shuffler, join me on the show.
We chat about his first hiking memories, top trails in California, hiking hacks & tips, summit shuffle dancing and climbing iconic peaks such as Mount Whitney & the Matterhorn, how dancing and climbing both fulfill him, the Pacific Northwest vs Southern California outdoor scene, his most dangerous on trail experience, how scaling mountains has impacted his overall life, and the one outdoor experience he would relive all over again.
...2024-05-211h 26
Just Trek Podcast#70 | Astonishing Encounters with Pacific Northwest Wildlife, An Unforgettable Stars Wars Themed Group HIke, From Solo Hiking to Outdoor Podcasting, Pacific Northwest Vs. SoCal Scene with Ivan OrozcoOn this episode I have Pacific Northwest based trekker, peak bagger, outdoor adventurer, founder of the Yakima Valley Trekkers, and the voice behind the Hikes And Mics Podcast, Ivan Orozco, join me on the show.
We chat about his first hiking memories, the origin story to creating the Hikes and Mics Podcast, top trails in the Pacific Northwest, hiking hacks & tips, experiencing a Star Wars / Mandalorian inspired group trek in Los Angeles, creating Yakima Valley Trekkers & hosting his first ever group hike, the Pacific Northwest vs Southern California outdoor scene, a magical wildlife encounter, a...2024-05-072h 05
Just Trek Podcast#69 | SoCal Hometown Heroes - Exclusive Recording from the 4 Year Anniversary Live Podcast Show feat. Karla Amador (52 Hike Challenge), Cris Hazzard (HikingGuy.com), & Anjelica Avella (Film "Forward)On this episode, I release the full recording from our second ever live podcast show. It was filmed at the Just Trek Podcast 4 Year Anniversary celebration on Sat, April 6th at the Happier Camper Outdoor Showroom + Happier Cafe here in Los Angeles. The guest panel featured SoCal Hometown Heroes such as Karla Amador (founder of @52hikechallenge), Cris Hazzard (creator of HikingGuy.com), Anjelica Avella (Lead Protagonist / Story Producer in the film “Forward”), and myself as the moderator. We chatted about each of their impactful work in the community, their most meaningful outdoor adventures / nature experiences, what the community each has...2024-04-231h 26
Just Trek Podcast#68 | Surreal Mount Baldy & Eastern Sierra Adventures, The Importance Of Solo Travel, Escaping A Volcanic Storm, and Exploring Iceland & Banff with TomasaOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, peak bagger, outdoor content creator, and solo world traveler, Tomasa aka @iamoneness11, join me on the show.
We chat about her first hiking memories, her top mountains in California, top international treks, hiking hacks & solo travel tips, what sparked her passion for solo adventuring, her love for Cotopaxi the outdoor brand, the importance of solo exploring, her intense volcano experience, her international travels to Iceland & Banff, Mount Baldy winter wonderland adventures, and the one outdoor experience she would relive all over again.
Follow Tomasa on https://www...2024-03-052h 45
Just Trek Podcast#67 | Exploring A Once In A Lifetime Ancient Desert Lake, Intense Death Valley Storms, Unforgettable Eastern Sierra Trip, And Utilizing The Great Outdoors As A Restaurant Entrepreneur w/ Jenny VallesOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, peak bagger, outdoor adventurer, dancer, marketer, entrepreneur, restaurant owner of Sampa, and member of the Just Trek Crew, Jenny Valles, join me on the show.
We chat about her first hiking memories, her top SoCal mountains, hiking hacks & tips, intense Death Valley storms, exploring an ancient lake, unforgettable Eastern Sierra summer trip, utilizing the Great Outdoors as an entrepreneur, traversing from the dance community to the outdoor community, being the owner of a Filipino American restaurant in LA, her perspective of being apart of a hiking/adventure group, and...2024-01-302h 30
Just Trek Podcast#66 | Summiting The World's Highest Free Standing Mountain, Experiencing The Outdoors As a Plus Size Explorer, and Unforgettable Backpacking + Peak Bagging Adventures with Anjelica AvellaOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, backpacker, writer, plus size outdoor explorer, diversity & inclusion advocate, hiking guide, and community leader, Anjelica Avella aka Adventures with Anjelica, join me on the show.
We chat about her first hiking memories, what sparked her passion for backpacking, the debut of her film documentary "Forward" at the Coast Film Festival, her top SoCal hikes, hiking hacks & backpacking tips, the 5 peak challenge in the San Gabriel mountains, summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro, unfortunate encounters on the trails, her special connection with Karla Amador & the 52 Hike Challenge, the transition from thru-hiking to settling...2023-11-282h 23
Just Trek Podcast#65 | Outdoor Defense, Empowering Women & Diverse Communities To Live Fearlessly, Importance Of Solo Adventures, Thrilling Experiences in New Zealand and Yellowstone National Park with Nicole SnellOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, outdoor adventurer, solo world traveler, award winning international speaker, self defense expert, creator of Outdoor Defense, and CEO of Girls Fight Back, Nicole Snell aka Adventures of Nik, join me on the show. We chat about her relationship with nature growing up in the desert, the origin stories to creating Outdoor defense and Girls Fight Back, the importance of solo adventures, her top California hikes, outdoor safety strategies & defense tactics, thru-hiking Mt. Whitney, Exploring New Zealand, her Yellowstone National park adventure, and the one outdoor experience she would re-live all over...2023-11-141h 49
Just Trek Podcast#64 | Advocating for Diversity + Inclusion In The Great Outdoors, An Unforgettable Mount Whitney Journey, Black Joy On The Trails, Creating Content for World Renown Outdoor Brands with Joshua WalkerOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, outdoor adventurer, content creator, travel blogger, diversity + inclusion advocate, and founder of "Hike N Color" hiking group, Joshua Walker, join me on the show. We chat about his journey moving from the South to the West Coast to chase the LA dream, his trail name origin story, our serendipitous encounter on Cucamonga Peak summit in the San Gabriel mountains, the concept of over access to our local mountains, dancing on the trails, his personal experience as a black hiker in the outdoor space, his top SoCal hikes, hiking tips & tricks, his...2023-08-292h 41
Just Trek Podcast#63 | Connecting with the Plant Kingdom & The Natural World, Creating Inner Garden Wellness, Life Changing Work On a Regenerative Farm, Unforgettable European Travel Adventures with Jaskrit BhallaOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, outdoor adventurer, certified California naturalist, permaculture practitioner, herbalist, and founder of Inner Garden Wellness, Jaskrit Bhalla, join me on the show. We chat about how a profound international hiking experience impacted her as a pre-teen, how she became obsessed with the plant kingdom, how working at a regenerative farm deepened her relationship to the natural world, the origin story to creating Inner Garden Wellness, top SoCal hikes, reconnecting with the land, what community means to her, our collaboration group hike in the Santa Monica Mountains, her favorite native plants, her unforgettable E...2023-08-151h 50
Just Trek Podcast#62 | Leading The Most Iconic Hikes in LA + SoCal Hiking History, Creating Everyone's Hike + Dodgers Blue Hiking Crew, Mobilizing Dodgers Fans & Inner City into the Great Outdoors w/ Carlos BerruzOn this episode I have California based trekker, outdoor adventurer, community leader, and founder of iconic hiking groups Everyone's Hike & Dodgers Blue Hiking Crew, Carlos Berruz, join me on the show. We chat about his outdoor awakening at Griffith Park, the origin story to creating his two hiking groups, mobilizing several thousands of Angelenos into the Great Outdoors, hiking tips & advice, his current observations of the SoCal hiking scene, top California hikes, the NorCal outdoor scene vs the SoCal scene, and the one outdoor experience he would re-live all over again. Carlos' social platforms are far reaching and he i...2023-07-042h 37
Just Trek Podcast#61 | From Sandstone Peak to Echo Mountain: A Month of Unforgettable Community Hikes with Inspirational Leaders, Elevating with Like Minded Individuals in the Great Outdoors w/ JustrocOn this episode I share the unforgettable community collaboration group hikes that we hosted during the month of May 2023. I felt compelled to do a solo episode as it was quite the action packed month filled with many full circle moments. I had the opportunity to co-host a group hike to Sandstone Peak with the outdoor writing legend Casey Schreiner (Founder of Modern Hiker), a 4 peak challenge in the San Gabriel Mountains with beloved hiking groups LA Trail Killers, OutAdv+, and SweatSoGuud, a #WeHikeToHeal sunset trek to Echo Mountain with the powerful spirit Karla Amador (Founder of the 52 Hike...2023-06-061h 02
Just Trek Podcast#60 | The LA Great Outdoors - Exclusive Recording From The Live Podcast Show Feat. Local Legends @ElementsOfDaisy @Parliament0f0wls and @MaryForgioneHikesOn this episode, I release the full recording from our first ever live podcast show. It was filmed at the Just Trek Podcast 3 Year Anniversary celebration on Sunday, April 2nd at Party Beer Co. in Los Angeles. The guest panel featured local legends Robert Martinez (creator of Parliament of Owls), Mary Forgione (former editor at LA Times The Wild), Daisy Martinez (founder of Wellness on the Trails), and myself as the moderator. We chatted about what makes the LA + SoCal Great Outdoors so great for each one of them personally, their feelings towards the historical rainfall and massive snow s...2023-04-111h 20
Just Trek Podcast#59 | Best of Just Trek Vol 2: Adventure Compilation // Podcast Reaches 3 Year Anniversary MilestoneOn this episode I release the "Best of Just Trek: Mixtrek Volume 2" in celebration of the podcast reaching the 3 year anniversary milestone. This second compilation features the best stories and moments that I have ever heard on the show from our cast of special guests. Featured in this compilation are Robert Martinez (@Parliament0f0wls), Casey Schreiner (@ModernHiker), Veronica Castro (@SweatSoGuud), Jeff Hester (@TheSoCalHiker / @SixPackOfPeaks), Jen Yonda (@LA.Skate.Hunnnies), Victor Martinez (@Vic_Of_Earth / @LATrailKillers), Cris Hazzard (@Hikingguy_com), Dora Santana (@Hiking_Lotusflower), Mitchel Dumlao (@MitchelDumlao), Stefan Fagerholm (@LifeHacksLA), Noah Klein (@FeelsLikeFloating), Cisko (@HikerFighter @BehindTheSufferAndPain), and Karla Amador (@52...2023-03-312h 21
Just Trek Podcast#58 | How Divorce and a Spiritual Moment on Mount Whitney Birthed a Life Changing Global Hiking Movement, The Evolution of the 52 Hike Challenge, and The Power of Hiking To Heal with Karla AmadorOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker & backpacker, nature spiritual teacher, world traveler, outdoor entrepreneur, and founder & Chief Hiking Officer of the 52 Hike Challenge, Karla Amador, join me on the show. We chat about how divorce and a spiritual moment on Mt. Whitney birthed a global hiking challenge, the origin stories of the 52 Hike Challenge and the evolution of the platform, her top 3 SoCal hikes, impactful finisher stories from the challenge, hiking hacks for day hikers + backpackers, her campout experience learning from elders of 20 different tribes, major takeaways from her first Burning Man experience, how she overcame the f...2023-01-312h 20
Just Trek Podcast#57 | Hiking the 67 Mile Backbone Trail in the Santa Monica Mountains, Creating Legendary Music Experiences in Nature, Co-Founding Feels Like Floating, Becoming a Certified Naturalist with Noah KleinOn this episode I have LA based trekker & backpacker, flautist & naturalist, experience curator, community leader, eco-musicologist, and Co-Founder of Feels Like Floating, Noah Klein aka Noah the Naturalist, join me on the show. We chat about his love for the Santa Monica mountains, his epic adventure hiking the 67 mile Backbone trail, the origin story of the "Feels like Floating" weekly outdoor art series, becoming a certified naturalist, curating legendary music experiences in Mother Nature, the Feels Like Floating x Vasquez Rocks collaboration, his top 3 LA hikes, the healing power of nature, LA's rich history of community organizing & community of...2022-12-203h 08
Just Trek Podcast#56 | Hiking the John Muir Trail Twice - 30 Years Apart, Creating the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge & SoCal Hiker Blog, How a Mountain Biking Accident Sparked a National Hiking Challenge w/ Jeff HesterOn this episode I have THE SoCal hiker, outdoor adventurer, peak bagger, backpacker, community leader, co-host of the Almost There Adventure Podcast, founder of SoCal Hiker Blog, and Chief Adventure Officer of the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge, Jeff Hester, join me on the show. We chat about how a mountain bike accident sparked a national hiking challenge, completing the John Muir Trail twice (30 years apart!), the origin stories of the SoCal hiker blog and the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge Series, his top 3 SoCal hikes, hiking hacks for day hikers + backpackers, the SoCal hiking community in comparison to...2022-11-222h 10
Just Trek Podcast#55 | Escaping Corporate Life to Living the Organic Farm Life, Solo World Traveling through South America, Celebrating 5 Years of LA Trail Killers, and Exploring Machu Picchu with Victor MartinezOn this episode I have LA based trekker, peak bagger, outdoor adventurer, solo world traveler, Korea Town Run Club member, mindfulness advocate, community leader, and founder of the LA Trail Killers, Victor Martinez, join me on the show for the second time (he last appeared as our EP 37 guest on the show). We chat about him quitting the corporate life and solo world traveling through South America, celebrating the 5 year anniversary of LA Trail Killers in the Angeles National Forest, his top outdoor adventures on his international travels, working on an organic farm in Peru, tips & advice for solo t...2022-11-082h 08
Just Trek Podcast#54 | Hiking to Heal + Wellness Hikes, Scrambling up the Hollywood Sign, Building Community Through SweatSoGuud, Importance of Inner Work, and Backpacking Mount Whitney with Veronica CastroOn this episode I have LA based trekker, outdoor adventurer, community builder, wellness advocate, and founder of @SweatSoGuud, Veronica Castro, join me on the show. Veronica has been blessing the outdoor scene with her wellness group hikes and is a female community leader we should all pay attention to. We chat about her very first hiking memories, scrambling up the Hollywood Sign, the backstory behind creating SweatSoGuud, incorporating wellness into group hikes, her partnership with @SelfWorkByMe, her top 3 trails in Los Angeles, the importance of inner work, tips and advice for long day hikes & newbie hikers, hiking for healing...2022-10-182h 13
Just Trek Podcast#53 | Bobcat vs. Rattlesnake Fight To The Death, Wilford the Bear Celebrity, Capturing Hundreds of Videos of Mountain Lions, Bears, Foxes, Coyotes, and Bobcats w/ Robert Martinez (Parliament of Owls)On this episode I have SoCal based trekker, off trail explorer, wildlife photographer & videographer, artist in residence for the Angeles National Forest, and creator of the youtube channel Parliaments of Owl, Robert Martinez, join me on the show. Robert's videos have been viewed by millions in the country and his work has brought awareness to the thriving animal life we have in our local LA mountain foothills. We chat about his first major wildlife encounter, the bustling animal activity in the San Gabriel mountains, how he became an artist in residence for the Angeles National Forest, his top moments...2022-09-072h 03
Just Trek Podcast#52 | Trek Talks: Mount Baldy (Patreon Exclusive Content), Podcasting While Literally Hiking On The Trails, Summiting LA's Tallest Mountain During the Height Of The Pandemic with the Just Trek Crew**PATREON EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!**
For episode 52, I am switching it up and sharing an exclusive piece of content that was released to the Just Trek Patreon subscribers a few months ago. On this show, I share the first ever episode of my new podcast series entitled "Trek Talks" which has currently only been available to the Just Trek Patron community. Trek Talks is a raw and candid perspective of my outdoor adventures and what makes these episodes unique is that I record myself along with fellow hikers while LITERALLY hiking on the trails. You can hear us huffing an...2022-08-1728 min
Just Trek Podcast#51 | Honoring Life & Death in the San Gabriel Mountains & Eastern Sierras, The Ultimate Mount Whitney Sufferfest, Mount Baldy Mountaineering, Hiking To Fight Depression & Hiking to Heal with CiskoOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, rock climber, ultra trail runner, peak bagger, and mountaineer Cisko (@hikerfighter / @behindthesherpa), join me on the show. We chat about the backstory behind his mysterious face mask, how an unnamed peak in San Bernardino sparked his outdoor journey, his top 3 mountains in California, tips and advice for long day hikes and peak baggers, honoring life and death in the San Gabriel mountains and Eastern Sierras, climbing for Nemo, hiking to fight depression, his ultimate trail angel, mental health and the outdoors, mountaineering Mount Baldy, and the one outdoor experience he would r...2022-07-261h 51
Just Trek Podcast#50 | Best of Just Trek: Adventure Compilation // Half Dome, Mount Whitney, Cactus to Clouds, Mount Williamson, Vulcan del Fuego, Deep Creek, Katmai National Park, Arizona Trail, and more with JustrocOn this episode I launch the inaugural series "Best of Just Trek: Mixtrek Volume 1" in celebration of reaching 50 episodes of the show. This compilation series features the best stories and moments that I have ever heard on the show from our cast of special guests. Featured in this first compilation are Will Mattox aka @Tacoslayers, Victor Martinez (@latrailkillers), Daniel Zhu (@danielzhustance / @stanceelements), Complexion (@thefuturebeatsshow), Daisy Martinez (@elementsofdaisy), Mary Forgione (@maryforgionehikes / LA Times), William Vazquez (@weexploreearth), Ray Medearis (@californiahikinggroup), Mckenna Mobley (@mckmobley), Ayumi Nicole (@_chasingpeaks_), Matt Kerr (@from.matts.mat), and Sarah Nacario (@i.dream.i.do). They share stories...2022-07-062h 13
Just Trek Podcast#49 | Creating the West Coast's Most Read Hiking Blog, The Evolution of Modern Hiker, Protecting Griffith Park, From TV Producer to LA Times Best Selling Author with Casey Schreiner (Modern Hiker)On this episode I have LA based trekker, outdoor adventurer, environmental activist, native plant enthusiast, Author of “Day Hiking Los Angeles” and “Discovering Griffith Park”, and founder of Modern Hiker, Casey Schreiner, join me on the show. We chat about how the view of the San Gabriel mountains sparked his outdoor journey, the concept of place attachment in relation to landscapes, the origin story and evolution of Modern Hiker throughout the years, advocating for more LA park lands, his top SoCal hikes, hot weather and summer hiking tips, Sandstone Peak and the Mishe Mokwa Trail, becoming a native plant enthusia...2022-05-172h 32
Just Trek Podcast#48 | Surviving Heat Stroke in Death Valley National Park, Exploring Extreme & Dramatic Landscapes, Non-Stop Desert Adventures, Sunset & the Full Moon at the lowest point in North America with JustrocOn this episode I share my insane adventure of experiencing Death Valley National Park for the first time ever. It was the most wild weekend I've ever had in a national park and quite possibly in the great outdoors. This immensely intriguing park is a land of extremes - it is the largest national park in the country, home to the Badwater Basin which is the lowest point in North America, and Death Valley has the hottest temperatures recorded in the world. Myself and the Just Trek Crew experienced everything from below sea level salt flats to high elevation...2022-05-031h 46
Just Trek Podcast#47 | Epic Skating & Outdoor Adventures, Creating the LA Skate Hunnies, Full Moon Hikes, Physical Activities as Moving Meditations, and Building Community Through Experiences with Jen Yonda (L.A.S.H.)On this episode I have LA based trekker, roller blader & skater, outdoor adventurer, wellness advocate, community organizer, and founder of the LA Skate Hunnies, Jennifer Yonda, join me on the show. We chat about how Jen’s desire to be in nature led her from the East Coast to the West Coast, the backstory behind creating the LA Skate Hunnies, her top places to skate and favorite hiking trails in Los Angeles, tips & advice for newbie skaters & bladers, hosting a Palms Springs Skatecation, how physical activities are a moving meditation, curating memorable experiences for her community, how skating and hik...2022-04-122h 14
Just Trek Podcast#46 | Podcast Reaches Two-Year Milestone, Voice Messages from the SoCal Hiking + Outdoor Community, Biggest Takeaways Learned from the Guests + Podcasting Highlights with Justroc (Justin Rimon)On this special edition, solo episode, I celebrate the podcast reaching its Two Year Anniversary along with my birthday. The show has grown quite alot from year 1 to year 2 with more incredible guests sharing their origin stories, outdoor adventures, tips and advice, and life lessons. This episode features intimate messages from the Just Trek community throughout the show. I share my biggest takeaways that I have learned from the guests and sharing highlights from my podcasting journey thus far. From the bottom of my heart, thank you everyone for another year of support. Let's keep on elevating one another u...2022-03-311h 19
Just Trek Podcast#45 | Co-Founding Hike Revolution, Off Trail Bushwacking Adventures, Tragedies on Mount Baldy, Top SoCal Mountains, and the Golden Era of Hiking in LA is back with Rockhound Hiker (Justin Williams)On this episode I have SoCal based trekker, peak bagger, trail steward, off trail adventurer, founder of Bushwacker’s Anonymous, and co-founder of Hike Revolution, Justin Williams (Rockhound Hiker), join me on the show. We chat about how Justin grew up in our local mountains and wilderness, the backstory behind Hike Revolution and Bushwacker’s Anonymous, trail maintenance, tragedies on Mount Baldy, his top SoCal mountains, tips & advice for off trail routes and backcountry hikes, the important of respecting the mountains, how the golden era of hiking in LA is back, and the one outdoor experience he would relive all...2022-03-152h 39
Just Trek Podcast#44 | Creating Hiking Guides Read by Millions, From Elite Bike Racer & Corporate Executive to Professional Hiking Guide, Top SoCal Trails, and Gear Recommendations with HikingGuy (Cris Hazzard)On this episode I have SoCal based trekker, outdoor explorer, professional hiking guide, and creator of HikingGuy.com, Cris Hazzard, join me on the show. We chat about how taking an international corporate job sparked his outdoor journey, the backstory behind creating HikingGuy.com, his top SoCal trails, tips & advice for long day hikes & newbie hikers, tips for outdoor bloggers & writers, current gear recommendations, All Trails vs Gaia GPS, how hiking and nature has impacted his overall life, and the one outdoor experience he would relive all over again. Cris's hiking guides and virtual trail guides have been read...2022-02-162h 08
Just Trek Podcast#43 | Conquering 11 Peaks in 1 Day, Sketchy Off Trail Adventures, Becoming an Ultra Peak Bagger, Completing Iron Mountain to Mount Baldy Traverse, and Backpacking Patagonia with Becca DuganOn this episode I have LA based trekker, doctor of physical therapy, outdoor adventurer, and ultra peak bagger, Becca Dugan, join me on the show. We chat about how an international backpacking trip inspired her outdoor journey, completing the Fool's Traverse 11 Peak endurance challenge, climbing Middle Palisades in the Eastern Sierras, tips & advice for long day hikes and aspiring peak baggers, her sketchy adventure of sliding down a mountain, how summiting major peaks has impacted her life, and the one outdoor experience she would relive all over again. Becca has greatly inspired me through her peak bagging journey and i...2022-01-181h 46
Just Trek Podcast#42 | Life Changing Sunset at Sandstone Peak, Hiking in Malibu & the Santa Monica Mountains, Finding True North, From Breakdancing to Peak Bagging, and The Power of Reinvention with JustrocOn this episode, I kickoff the 2022 New Year with a special edition, solo episode dedicated to Sandstone Peak which is known as the tallest peak in the Santa Monica Mountains (Pacific Palisades/Malibu area). It is a most special place in my hiking journey that I hope you visit one day whether you are a LA local or are visiting from out of town. Reflecting back on 2021, I made the pilgrimage back here numerous times and each time solidified why this is my favorite trek of all time. I share how I first discovered this mountain, my overall thoughts a...2022-01-0445 min
Just Trek Podcast#41 | LA as one of the greatest hiking cities in the US, Launching the LA TIMES "The Wild" Newsletter, Summiting Mount Whitney since 1991, and Promoting the SoCal Great Outdoors with Mary ForgioneOn this episode I have LA based trekker, outdoor adventurer, travel + outdoor writer, outings leader for the Sierra Club Angeles Chapter, lead journalist & blogger for the LA Times, editor of "The Wild" newsletter, and SoCal Great Outdoors advocate, Mary Forgione, join me on the show. We chat about why LA is one of the greatest hiking cities in the US, how Griffith Park sparked her journey, her top 3 hikes in LA, the launch of LA TIMES "The Wild" newsletter & the 24 page "Go Hiking in LA" comprehensive guide, summiting Mount Whitney since 1991, interviewing a quadriplegic on the trail, and tips & ad...2021-12-211h 53
Just Trek Podcast#40 | Tackling The Ultimate Peak Bagging Suffer Fest aka The Fool's Traverse Challenge with JustrocOn Saturday, Oct 23rd I attempted the most difficult trek in my outdoor journey and that was tackling the peak bagging extravaganza known as the #FoolsTraverse Challenge hosted by TRVRS Outdoors. The Fool's Traverse is an 11 peak endurance challenge located in the Mount Baldy area that is 26 miles long, and up to 12,000 ft elevation gain. Participants need to strategically navigate to as many peaks and checkpoints as physically capable to win prizes from sponsors and to claim bragging rights as #SoCal mountain goats. This was an adventure for the books and also a suffer fest I will never forget...2021-11-031h 07
Just Trek Podcast#39 | Hacking the Best of Los Angeles, Creating LifeHacksLA, Exploring Palos Verdes + Terranea Resort, Top 3 LA Neighborhoods, and Building a Community of Die-Hard LA Lovers with Stefan FagerholmOn this episode I have the ultimate LA explorer, urban trekker, experience curator, podcast host, and founder of LifeHacksLA, Stefan Fagerholm, join me on the show. We talk about how the culture of things to do in Los Angeles is different from other cities, the backstory behind LifeHacksLA, his top 3 neighborhoods, hacks for exploring Los Angeles, exploring the coastal gem known as Palos Verdes + Terranea Resort, our LifeHacksLA x Bungee America x Just Trek collabo giveaway, tips for growing one’s Instagram account, launching the LA Hackers Club, building a community of die hard LA lovers, and chat about our...2021-10-121h 44
Just Trek Podcast#38 | Creating Babes Who Elevate, Elevating Women through the Outdoors, From Triathlon Training to Hitting Rock Bottom, Solo Female Travel, How Physical Activity Helps w/ Depression with Sandra RubioOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker & runner, solo female traveler, cyclist and swimmer, outdoor adventurer, and founder of Babes Who Elevate, Sandra Rubio, join me on the show. we talk about how the pandemic led her to joining a running challenge, the backstory of creating Babes Who Elevate, her top 3 adventures, how physical activity helps battle depression, tips & advice for solo female travel & newbie hikers, her Sunset Peak collabo hike with We Explore Earth, from training for her first Triathlon to testing positive for Covid 19, Hitting rock bottom and elevating back up, and how different physical outlets...2021-09-282h 47
Just Trek Podcast#37 | Creating LA Trail Killers, How Solo World Traveling Sparked LA Exploration, Exploring Guatemala's Active Volcano & Pyramids, and Practicing Mindfulness on the Summit with Victor MartinezOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, solo world traveler, outdoor adventurer, and founder of LA Trail Killers, Victor Martinez, join me on the show. We talk about how solo world traveling inspired him, the backstory of creating the LA Trail Killers hiking group, top 3 SoCal mountains, tips and advice for long day hikes & newbie hikers, his wild Guatemala adventure, the cloudy sunset experience at Moro Rock, and how he incorporates mindfulness & spirituality into his group hikes. Victor's deep passion for getting his fellow Angelenos off the couch and into the outdoors is a true inspiration that there is...2021-08-311h 54
Just Trek PodcastJust Trek Podcast (Trailer)2021-08-2800 min
Just Trek Podcast#36 | Hardcore Trail Running Adventures, NorCal vs SoCal, Overcoming Addiction & Achieving Sobriety, From Building a Touring Band to Becoming a Men's Life Coach, and Growth Mindset with Devon KeltsOn this episode I have California based trekker, musician + songwriter, Men's life coach, founder of Better To Greater, and ultra trail runner, Devon Kelts, join me on the show. We talk about the differences between NorCal and SoCal, his top trail running experiences (Marin Ultra Challenge, Bishop 100k, etc), The Bad Water Basin Race (World's Toughest Race), overcoming addiction & achieving sobriety, his transition from starting a band & becoming a songwriter to becoming a purpose driven coach, the importance of growth mindset, how trail running has enriched his overall life, and the one outdoor experience he would re-live all over a...2021-08-102h 05
Just Trek Podcast#35 | Mount Whitney via The Mountaineer's Route, Conquering Cactus To Clouds as a Solo Hike, Summiting Mount Rainier, Finding Purpose In The Outdoors, and Top SoCal Mountains with Valerie CamposOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, backpacker, climber, and mountaineer, Valerie Campos, join me on the show. We talk about the epic challenge that sparked her outdoor journey, conquering Mt Whitney via the mountaineer’s route, Cactus 2 Clouds as a solo hike, summiting Mount Rainier in Washington state, top Southern California mountains, tips for long day hikes and aspiring mountaineers, finding purpose in the outdoors, building athleticism through mountaineering, how scaling these major peaks have impacted her, and the one hiking experience she would re-live all over again. Val's constant desire to level up and build her at...2021-07-202h 18
Just Trek Podcast#34 | Creating We Explore Earth, Conquering Mount Williamson, Exploring the Eastern Sierras, How Nature Heals Depression, Sunset at Sandstone Peak, and Protecting Mother Nature with William VazquezOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, experience creator, adventurer, protector, and founder of the non profit org We Explore Earth, William Vazquez, join me on the show. We talk about his strong affinity for protecting Mother Nature, the backstory of creating We Explore Earth, top 3 nature based adventures, tips and advice for taking care of Earth, tips for long day hikes and newbie hikers, Conquering Mount Williamson (Mt Whitney's evil twin brother), Exploring the Eastern Sierras, our Sandstone Peak collaboration hike, how nature helps heal depression, working with Steve Aoki and Jimmy Kimmel, and the one outdoor...2021-07-062h 24
Just Trek Podcast#33 | Creating OUTADV+ , Iron Mountain Suffer Fest, Exploring Zion Nat'l Park & Angel's Landing, Mental Health & The Outdoors, Santa Monica Mountains, Underground LA Hip Hop Scene with Juan FloresOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, trail runner, preacher, LA Hip Hop Head, and founder of OUTADV+ , Juan Flores, join me on the show. We talk about how Hart Park & Zion National Park sparked his outdoor journey, back story to creating OUTADV+ , top California hikes, his suffer fest and redemption on Iron Mountain, tips & advice for long day hikes and newbie hikers, dangerous experiences on the trails, his background in the underground LA Hip Hop scene, Mental Health & The Outdoors IG Live Series, how hiking + nature has impacted his life, Temescal Canyon summit cypher, and the one...2021-06-152h 53
Just Trek Podcast#32 | Salsa Dancing Up Half Dome, Redemption on San Gorgonio, Disappearing on Ontario Peak, Completing Six Pack of Peaks Challenge in One Month, and Cactus to Clouds vs Iron Mountain with Matt KerrOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, trail runner, visionary educator, dancer, yogi eskrimador, and member of the Just Trek Crew, Matt Kerr aka Machete Matt, join me on the show. We talk about his top SoCal mountains, tips & advice for long day hikes and newbie hikers, salsa dancing up Half Dome, redemption on San Gorgonio, disappearing on Ontario Peak, completing the Six Pack of Peaks challenge in one month, Cactus to Clouds vs Iron Mountain, summit cypher, dance origins, and the one hike he would re-live all over again.
Follow Matt on https://www.instagram.co...2021-06-012h 39
Just Trek Podcast#31 | How I Became a Podcaster, From Breakdancing to Trekking, MTV's America's Best Dance Crew, Tips For Beginner Hikers, Hiking Mount Whitney, and Cactus to Clouds // In the Views PodcastOn this episode, I share a guest interview I did for "In The Views" podcast hosted by Ray Medearis (founder of @CaliforniaHikingGroup) in case you might have missed it. This particular conversation was a special one because I really got to share my origin story in depth and take it all the way back to the beginning. Consider this episode my “Behind the Music Story” but in the outdoor sense my “Behind the Trekking Story.” We talk about how I almost moved out of California, where I'm originally from, my first passion before dance, tips for beginner hikers, how I became...2021-05-182h 24
LifeHacksLA - Hacking the Best of Los Angeles81. Amazing LA Day Hikes & Outdoor Adventures with Justin from Just Trek81. Justin "JustRoc" Rimon has always believed in going all in when it comes to embracing your passions. And for years he did just that as a competitive B-Boy (aka breakdancer) and event producer active in the street dance community for several years. But after retiring from competitions he discovered a brand new passion in "trekking". A life changing sunset hike up to the top of Sandstone Peak gave him the clarity to go all in on his new found mission to try to explore all of what the great Los Angeles outdoors has to offer and share it with others.
I...2021-04-1453 min
Just Trek Podcast#30 | 1 Year Anniversary of the Podcast, Voice Messages from the Community, Biggest Takeaways from Guests, and Podcasting Journey Highlights with JustrocOn this special episode, I celebrate the podcast reaching it's one year anniversary! I feature intimate messages from the Just Trek listeners throughout the show, share my biggest takeaways I have learned from the guests, and the highlights from my podcasting journey thus far. No special guests this time around, just me doing a solo episode with inspiring messages from the most incredible community of trekkers and adventurers a host could ask for. Thank you everyone for your support. Let's keep on trekking upward and onward.
Follow on Instagram https://instagram.com/just.trek https://www.instagram.com...2021-03-311h 51
Just Trek Podcast#29 | Re-discovering LA Through Epic Peaks & Long Day Hikes, Bringing Style & Dance To The Trails, Finding True North and Answers In The Outdoors, and Tips For Being a Content Creator with Just JetOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, content creator, former MTV's America's Best Dance Crew Champion, World of Dance Tour Judge, and movement artist, Just Jet (formerly Jet Li), join me on the show. We talk about he has re-discovered LA through epic peaks such as Sunset Peak, Mount Baldy, Strawberry Peak, Mount Baden Powell, and more. We chat about bringing style and dance to the trails, finding True North, how the outdoors is a powerful place to seek answers, the importance of "stilling one's emotions," top adventures as a touring dance artist, tips for being a content...2021-03-242h 02
Just Trek Podcast#28 | Trekking Through the Pandemic, Backpacking the Trans-Catalina Trail, Hiking as the New Form of Travel, Tips for Long Day Hikes, Content Inspiration, and Hawaii Adventures with Harris HikersOn this episode I have SoCal based trekker, college athlete, content creator, and outdoor adventurer, Conley Harris aka Harris Hikers, join me on the show. We talk about trekking through the pandemic, backpacking the Trans-Catalina Trail, her top SoCal hikes, tips for long day hikes, advice for newbie hikers, how one of her videos went viral, body positivity, her partnership with Decathlon & Atomic Bear, Hawaii adventures, tackling the SoCal Six Pack of Peaks challenge, and how hiking is the new form of travel. Conley's passion for hiking and adventure as a college student & athlete is a true inspiration to...2021-03-091h 49
Just Trek Podcast#27 | Breaking The Tacos Everyday World Record, Hiking + Summit Tacos, Tips for Cooking in the Wilderness, and Creating Stickers for the SoCal Outdoor Community with Taco Slayers (Will Mattox)On this episode I have SoCal based trekker, founder of Seriously Stickers, taco connoisseur, and Tacos Every Day World Champion, Will Mattox aka Taco Slayers, join me on the show. We talk about his epic taco food journey, his hiking + summit taco adventures, top SoCal hikes, tips for cooking in the outdoors, hilarious moments from Deep Creek Hot Springs & The Fool's Traverse, top taco joints in SoCal, and how his business Seriously Stickers has developed a special connection with the local outdoor community.
Follow The Taco Slayers and Seriously Sticker on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thetacoslayers/ http...2021-02-231h 57
Just Trek Podcast#26 | Growing up the Daughter of a Mountaineer, Backpacking The Narrows (Zion), Summerland Trail (Mt. Rainier), Top California Hikes, Tips for Long Day Hikes and Surfing in LA with Deanna HjerlingOn this episode I have LA based art director, design assassin, trekker, backpacker, and member of the #JustTrekCrew, Deanna Hjerling, join me on the show. We talk about her perspective as a daughter of a mountaineer, backpacking The Narrows in Zion, the Summerland Trail (Mt. Rainier), her top California hikes, surfing in LA, tips for long day hikes, and her Iceland adventures.
Follow Deanna on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deannayukiko/
Check out Deanna's portfolio on https://www.deannahjerling.com/
Shop Just Trek merchandise on https://www.justtrek.net/shop
View ph...2021-01-261h 43
Just Trek Podcast#25 | From International Breakdancing to the Great Outdoors, Top Adventures as a Dancer & Trekker, Tips for Backpacking & Bikepacking, Breaking in the Olympics, and East Coast Recs with DomkeyOn this episode I have Philadelphia based international traveler, trekker & backpacker, biker & bikepacker, and world class dancer, Domkey, join me on the show. We talk about Domkey's transition from the hip hop/breakdancing world to the great outdoors. His top adventures as a dancer and outdoor enthusiast, tips for backpacking & bikepacking, and advice for first time bikers. We even get his thoughts about breakdancing being in the Paris 2024 Olympics and his recommendations on places to explore in the East Coast. Domkey is apart of the legendary Lionz of Zion Crew - he continues to inspire the international breaking scene w...2021-01-192h 07
Just Trek Podcast#24 | Life of a Park Ranger in Katmai Nat'l Park (Alaska), Protocol for Grizzly Bear Encounters, Tips for Capturing Outdoor + Travel Content, and Breakdancing in the 2024 Olympics with Daniel ZhuOn this episode I have LA based filmmaker, international explorer, trekker, content creator, and the founder of Stance, Daniel Zhu, join me on the show. We talk about Daniel's top international adventures in the world, his former Park ranger days at Katmai National Park (he considers it the coolest national park in the world!), proper bear protocol, and tips for capturing outdoor + travel content. We even talk about breakdancing being in the 2024 Paris Olympics, running the Yosemite Half Marathon, and celebrating his birthday in Sedona, Arizona. Daniel is a multi-talented creative whose video content and dynamic storytelling has inspired mi...2021-01-121h 44
Just Trek Podcast#23 | Creating The Future Beats Show, How Music Can Make Treks Better & Open Up Your Mind, The Power of Sunsets, and Outer Space Fascination with ComplexionOn this episode I have London based international DJ, radio show host & producer, green tea connoisseur, nature lover, space enthusiast, and the creator of The Future Beats Show (TFBS), Complexion, join me on the show. We talk about the origins of TFBS, how music can make walks & treks better and open up your mind, why sunsets are his favorite part of the day, his US DJ tour, and his fascination with space. This episode means the world to me because Complexion's show has been the soundtrack to my life the past 5 years and he will be my first ever...2021-01-011h 25
Just Trek Podcast#22 | Chasing 15 Waterfalls in Hawaii, 24 miles Grand Canyon Bday Trek , Top 5 Hiking Adventures, Mental Health Awareness, Tips & Advice for long day hikes, and Iron Mountain with Ayumi NicoleOn this episode I have LA based peak bagger, adventurer, outdoor blogger, and mental health advocate, Ayumi Nicole, join me on the show. We talk about how California sparked her hiking journey, top 5 hiking adventures, Grand Canyon Rim to Rim B-Day Trek, tips & advice for challenging day hikes, mental health awareness, and her Iron Mountain experience. We further discuss her adventures in Hawaii, her first and only 14er Quandary Peak, Mount Baldy, and the Grand Canyon. Ayumi has been chasing peaks non-stop and has been an inspirational and infectious energy in the SoCal outdoor community and beyond. Her openness and...2020-12-101h 49
Just Trek Podcast#21 | Completing the Six Pack of Peaks Challenge, Tips & Tricks for Capturing Outdoor Content, Rising Above the Pandemic, Launching Video Content School, and Creative Haven Podcast with Mitchel DumlaoOn this episode I have LA based peak bagger, video creator, award-winning director, and member of the #JustTrekCrew, Mitchel Dumlao, join me on the show. We talk about Mitchel's journey completing the SoCal Six Pack of Peaks challenge this year, tips & tricks for capturing outdoor content (phone, DSLR, drone, etc), cultivating a mindset to rise above the pandemic, launching Video Content school, and his show the Creative Haven Podcast. We talk about our adventures on Mount Baldy, Strawberry Peak (mountaineer's route), Cucamonga Peak, Mount Baden Powell, Mount Wilson, Mount San Jacinto, and Ontario Peak. Mitchel is a renaissance man...2020-11-112h 20
Just Trek Podcast#20 | Hardcore Trail Running Experiences, Solo Adventuring for Well-Being, TRVRS Outdoors, Tips for Trail Conditions, Re-discovering Griffith Park, and Wellness on the Trails with Daisy MartinezOn this episode I have LA based ultra runner, peak bagger, explorer, creator of Wellness on the Trails, and TRVRS Outdoor Ambassador, Daisy Martinez, join me on the show. We talk about about how she became a TRVRS Outdoor Athlete, her intense trail running experiences, solo adventures for well being, tips for finding trail conditions, her C2C & C2C2C experiences, and re-discovering Griffith Park. We also discuss her platform called Wellness on the Trails and the importance of taking care of the land that we explore. Daisy has inspired so many in the outdoor community with her inf...2020-10-211h 45
Just Trek Podcast#19 | Being an African American on the Trails, Intense U.S. Marine stories, Iron Mountain, and The Importance Of Nature After the Military with Ray Medearis (Part 2)On this episode, I jump into part 2 of Ray Medearis' story. He is a Northern California based trekker, explorer, US Marine veteran, and is the creator of California Hiking Group. We talk about his experience being an African American on the trails, his intense journey as a US Marine, military hikes in comparison to Iron Mountain, fighting for his country yet being treated like a 2nd class citizen, and the vital role of the outdoors in his life after the armed forces. We dig deep into Ray's story and he concludes the episode with a powerful final thought in re...2020-09-301h 56
Just Trek Podcast#18 | Creating California Hiking Group, Nature's Healing Power, Black Lives Matter, Tips & Advice for Long Day Hikes and Favorite California Hikes with Ray Medearis (Part 1)On this episode I have California based peak bagger, explorer, US Marine veteran, and the creator of California Hiking Group, Ray Medearis, join me on the show. We talk about about how the great outdoors saved his life, the origins behind @CaliforniaHikingGroup, his #52HikeChallenge feature, Black Lives Matter, tips for long day hikes, and his favorite hikes in all of California. We also discuss the catalyst to why Ray recently felt it was important to reveal himself to the outdoor community - an African American man behind one of the largest California inspired Instagram accounts @CaliforniaHikingGroup. This is part 1 o...2020-09-241h 54
Just Trek Podcast#17 | Solo Female Trekking, Tips for Solo Backpacking, Thru-Hiking the AZT, Summiting Mt. Whitney, Trail Angels, Favorite SoCal Mountains, and the Female Trail Perspective with McKenna MobleyOn this episode I have SoCal based mountaineer, blogger, explorer, and solo female trekker and backpacker, McKenna Mobley, join me on the show. We talk about about her recent Mt. Whitney journey, how Alaska sparked her hiking passion, thru-hiking 300+ miles of the Arizona Trail, tips for solo backpacking & mountaineering, and her favorite Southern California mountains. We also discuss outdoor activism and her perspective of being a female on the trails.
Follow McKenna Mobley on Instagram @mckennas_miles
View photos from the discussed hikes on https://www.justtrek.net/
Want to send me a mes...2020-09-091h 50
Just Trek Podcast#16 | Running & Training with Manny Pacquiao, Summiting LA's Toughest Mountains (Mt Baldy, Iron Mt, Strawberry Peak), and Finishing the LA Marathon 3x with Mark FaicolOn this episode I have LA based runner, explorer, peak bagger, DJ & musician, and culture + brand marketer, Mark Faicol, join me on the show. We talk about running and training with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, our beginning peak bagging journey together, summiting LA's toughest mountains (Iron Mt, Mt Baldy, Strawberry Peak), running & hiking tips, and his experience completing the LA marathon 3 times. Mark is a renaissance man who always continues to inspire, motivate, and elevate those around him while living life to the fullest.
Follow Mark Faicol on Instagram @sharkfaicol.
View photos from the discussed hikes...2020-09-021h 27
Just Trek Podcast#15 | Tips for Solo Female Travel, Trusting the Kindness of Strangers, Travel Hacks, the Kindness of the Backpacking Community, and Challenges of being a Solo Female Traveler with Sarah Angela NacarioOn this episode I have Toronto based international explorer, digital entrepreneur, global trekker, and solo female traveler, Sarah Angela Nacario, join me on the show. We talk about the challenges of being a female solo traveler, trusting the kindness of strangers, tips and advice for solo travel, and the kindness of the backpacking community. Sarah has traveled to over 35+ countries and has experienced countless adventures all over the world. She concludes the episode with a touching memoir to what solo travel means to her.
Follow Sarah's adventures on Instagram @i.dream.i.do
View photos from...2020-08-181h 23
Just Trek Podcast#14 | Creating Complete Summit Hiking, The #52HikeChallenge spark, Tips & Tricks for long day hikes, Favorite SoCal mountains, and Spreading Positivity with Jesse VallejoOn this episode I have LA based peak bagger, explorer, community leader, and the founder of Complete Summit hiking, Jesse Vallejo, join me on the show. We talk about the backstory behind Complete Summit, tips & advice for long day hikes, his favorite Southern California mountains, and the awesome work he has done in the community. Jesse aims to spread the positivity we share in the mountains to the rest of the world. He lives by the slogan A.I.M. -- Achieve, Inspire, and Motivate one mountain at a time.
Follow Complete Summit on Inst...2020-08-051h 23
Just Trek Podcast#13 | Exploring America's National Parks, Strawberry Peak (Mountaineer's route), Cucamonga Peak during a storm, Mt. Wilson bug invasion, Mt. Baldy B-Day hike, and Half Dome with Francis NgoOn this episode I have California based peak bagger, nature lover, rock climber, and national park explorer, Francis Ngo (@sicnarfone), join me on the show. We talk about his love for national parks (Yosemite, Zion, Crater Lake, etc) , tips for long day hikes, his Eastern Sierras getaway trip, and our journey tackling the Six Pack of Peaks challenge last year together. We reminisce about treks like Strawberry Peak (Mountaineer's Route), Cucamonga peak during a storm, Mt. Wilson, and his Mt. Baldy birthday hike. I dig deeper into Francis' journey and learn more about how hiking has enriched his overall life...2020-07-301h 42
Just Trek Podcast#12 | Mount Whitney: A tale of two journeys on the tallest mountain in the U.S. with Katie BeczakOn this episode I have LA based peak bagger, travel nurse, and adventurer, Katie Beczak (@katiefrances42), join me on the show. We talk about her wild Mount Whitney experience and how it was a tale of two journeys. One being a triumphant story of conquering the tallest mountain in the continental US and the other being a rescue story of her being saved by a helicopter. It was a day for the memory books that she will never forget and for the rest of our group as well. We dive into her training for Mount Whitney, how the Pacific Northwest spa...2020-07-182h 26
Just Trek Podcast#11 | Dangerous experiences on the trail, Greatest fears while hiking, Iron Witch Challenge, and the Sunset Peak B-Day hike with Jesse Fernandez (Pt. 2)On this episode, I jump into part 2 of Jesse Fernandez's story. He is a LA based peak bagger, trail boss, and is the founder of the group MidWeekHikers. We talk about his dangerous experiences in the mountains, his greatest fears while on a hike, how I met him at his Sunset Peak B-Day celebration, and who inspires him in the outdoor community.
Follow MidWeekHikers on Instagram @midweekhikers View photos from the discussed hikes on https://www.justtrek.net/
Want to send me a message?
Email...2020-07-0954 min
Just Trek Podcast#10 | Creating MidWeekHikers, Tips for strenuous day hikes, Iron to Mt Baldy, and must do outdoor experiences in SoCal with Jesse FernandezOn this episode I have LA based peak bagger, dog lover, mechanic, trail boss, and the founder of MidWeekHikers, Jess Fernandez, join me on the show. We talk about the backstory behind creating MidWeekHikers, tips for long day hikes, Iron Mountain to Mount Baldy (aka San Antonio Ridge Traverse), and must do outdoor experiences in the Southern California mountains. Jesse is a beloved person in the outdoor community who has brought many people together through his infectious energy and humor. This is part 1 of Jesse's story so make sure to stay tuned for part 2 in the future. Follow MidWeekHikers on...2020-07-0149 min
Just Trek Podcast#9 | Conquering Mt. Whitney in one day (22 miles), Surviving San Gorgonio, Tips to prevent altitude sickness, and Hiking as Therapy with Kay TresoOn this episode I have California based peak bagger, explorer, nurse, and international trekker, Kaye Treso (@the_petite_trekker), join me on the show. We talk about our epic journey conquering Mt. Whitney - the tallest mountain in the continental United States @ 14,508 feet. We did this as a 22 mile day hike in July 2019 and it was an adventure for the books that we will never forget - one of our group members got injured and was helicoptered off the mountain by Search and Rescue. Kaye and I were on the mountain for 22.5 hours and even led another hiker safely down. W...2020-06-241h 46
Just Trek Podcast#8 | Creating RYP Hiking, 7 Peak Family Challenge, Iron Mountain flashbacks, Wellness through Hiking & Helping others with Jose ZeladaOn this episode I have LA based peak bagger, poet, designer, youth advocate, and the founder of RYP Hiking, Jose Zelada, join me on the show. We talk about building community + positive relationships, his favorite hikes in SoCal, persevering Iron Mountain, the story behind RYP Hiking, and how he uses his platform to serve youth at risk and families. Add another hiking challenge to your bucket list and check out the 7 Peak Family challenge curated by Jose which includes peaks such as Sunset peak, San Gabriel peak, Stoddard peak, and more. To conclude the episode, Jose leaves us with a...2020-06-171h 14
Just Trek PodcastTrek Talks Teaser: Mount Baldy Summit with Mitchel DumlaoOn this episode teaser of "Trek Talks," I share an awesome conversation at Mount Baldy summit (tallest mountain in LA County @ 10,064 feet) with my fellow trekker Mitchel Dumlao who is an award winning director, videographer, and entrepreneur. I wanted to experiment and give the listeners a more raw and "in the moment" feeling of my adventures so I decided to record myself and others while literally hiking up the mountain. I wanted to capture the raw emotion when someone literally reached their peak. This moment was on Sunday, May 24th during Memorial day weekend.
This teaser is also my submission for...2020-06-1602 min
Just Trek Podcast# 7 | Creating TRVRS Outdoors, Fool's Traverse endurance challenge, Essential Tips for backcountry hikes, Trail Running, and Mountaineering with Ricardo SoriaOn this episode I have fellow mountaineer, ultra runner, and the founder of TRVRS Outdoors & the Fool's Traverse, Ricardo Soria, join me on the show. We talk about how he turned an unfortunate incident into an outdoor + lifestyle brand loved by the SoCal community, his design and entrepreneurial background, stories from his wild outdoor adventures, essential tips for backcountry hikes (ie. Cactus to Clouds, San Antonio Ridge Traverse, Triplet Rocks), and how I discovered his brand on Mount Baldy. Ricardo also provides an exclusive update on the Fool's Traverse endurance challenge. Make sure to check out his website below for awes...2020-06-111h 40
Just Trek Podcast#6 | Trekking Mt. Whitney, The 52 Hike Challenge, Essential Hiking Tips, Creating #JaguarHikes, and supporting community through #JaguarRuns Challenge with Salvador AlvarezOn this episode I have LA based peak bagger, runner, explorer, and the founder of #JaguarHikes, Salvador Alvarez (@jaguarhikes, @jaguarruns) join me on the show. We talk about his epic Mt. Whitney journey, how the 52 Hike Challenge provided a spark, essential hiking tips for long day hikes, the story behind his group Jaguar Hikes, and how his Jaguar team are supporting good causes through the #JaguarRuns challenge every month. To conclude the episode, Sal leaves us with a powerful quote in regards to framing our perspective.
Visit our sponsor Showgrow on www.showgrowmarketplace.com for all your C...2020-06-051h 25
Just Trek Podcast#5 | Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge, Tips for long day hikes, and the Power of Reinvention with Dora SantanaOn this episode I have LA based peak bagger, educator, and explorer Dora Santana (@hiking_lotusflower) join me on the show. We talk about her journey completing the SoCal Six Pack of Peaks challenge, tips for long day hikes, slaying the beast Iron Mountain, and how hiking has been a transformational journey to becoming the best version of herself and achieving sobriety. To conclude the episode, we have a fun rapid fire question segment and Dora leaves us with a powerful final message about self love + care.
Visit our sponsor Showgrow on www.showgrowmarketplace.c...2020-05-201h 19
Just Trek Podcast#4 | From International Model to California Peak Bagger, The Wisdom Tree epiphany, and Surviving San Gorgonio & The Punch Bowl with Paloma EsmeriaOn this episode I have International model, actress, and California peak bagger Paloma Esmeria (@palomagram) join me on the show. We talk about her big move from the Philippines to Los Angeles, how the Wisdom tree hike sparked her peak bagging mentality, her journey completing the Six Pack of Peaks challenge, and surviving hypothermia at San Gorgonio and a heat stroke at The Punch Bowl. Paloma was my first hiking inspiration and she laid the foundation for me to become a hardcore hiker with her wild and crazy recommendations such as Iron Mountain, Rattlesnake Peak, and Strawberry Peak (mountaineer's route).
Vi...2020-05-1355 min
Just Trek Podcast#3 | "Weekend in LA" film, National Parks, and International Road Trips with Luis GuanzonOn this episode, I have creative director and global content creator Luis Guanzon (@luis_guanzon, @bemoremedia) of BeMoreMedia join us on the show. We talk about the release of his new travel film which debuted at the Mobile World Congress Awards in Barcelona, how he won an international film contest from a family vacation, national park adventures with the fam, and international road tripping with his wife Anne (@travelannestyle, travelannestyle.com) and his daughter Maison. Watch "Weekend in LA" Film on https://youtu.be/xO1xkJJYCgY. Want to send me a message? Email at justin@justtrek.net or DM on Inst...2020-04-281h 23
Just Trek Podcast#2 | Peru cancelled, Death in Yosemite, Conquering Half Dome (real life North Face logo) with Linda DanhOn this episode, I have LA based art director, designer, rock climber, and fellow trekker Linda Danh (@hellolindadanh, linda-danh.com) join us on the show. We talk about her cancelled Peru trip, conquering Half Dome, Cave of Munits, and dig deeper with what the outdoors means to her. To conclude the episode, I specify resources for those who are daring enough to attempt Half Dome - it is Yosemite National Park's most iconic peak and is a bucket list adventure for any outdoor enthusiast. What made our experience even more intense was finding out that a hiker fell down to...2020-04-141h 14
Just Trek Podcast#1 | Exploring the LA Outdoors w/ Marc Nieto (pt. 2)On this episode, Marc and I continue sharing stories from our beginning hikes. We reminisce about Portuguese Bend, Joshua Tree, Paramount Ranch, and Malibu Creek State Park. We conclude the episode with a fun Q&A segment in a rapid fire format.
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View photos from these hikes on justtrek.net Want to send me a message?
Email me at justin@justtrek.net or DM me on Instagram on @just.trek or my personal @justroc.
Like the show? Consider supporting the podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtrek/support2020-04-1052 min
Just Trek Podcast#1 | IT'S JUST BEGUN: Exploring The LA Outdoors w/ Marc Nieto (pt 1.)On this episode, I have LA based producer Marc Nieto (@marcnifcenttv) as the first featured guest of the podcast. We reminisce about the journey and share stories and moments from our beginning hikes (from April 2017 and on) such as Corral Canyon, Point Dume, Sandstone Peak, Murphy’s Ranch, and Echo Mountain in the San Gabriel mountains. To conclude the episode, I discuss what items to bring on your first hikes and how to find a trekking buddy or group. This is part 1 of 2. ___ View photos from these hikes on justtrek.net Want to send me a message? Email me at jus...2020-04-0758 min
Just Trek Podcast#0 | Introduction to Just Trek, From Breaking to TrekkingOn this episode, I give a brief introduction of myself and explain what you can expect on the Just Trek podcast. Let the journey begin.
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Want to send me a message? Email me at justin@justtrek.net or DM me on Instagram on @just.trek or my personal @justroc.
Like the show? Consider supporting the podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtrek/support2020-03-3106 min