Shows
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 20 | Trail Goods Co. Creator Luke Pearsall🎙️ Episode 20 – Luke Pearsall | Founder of Trail Goods CompanyWhat happens when you pour everything into your dream… and it almost disappears overnight?In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Luke Pearsall, founder of Trail Goods Company, to unpack one of the most honest founder stories we’ve had on the show.Luke went from a 20-year career in commercial photography to building a premium backcountry food brand — only to lose his manufacturer, his inventory, and nearly his entire business in one blow.At one point, he had just $575 left in the bank before h...
2026-02-251h 14
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 19 | Farm to Summit Creator/Owner Louise BartonGuest: Louise Barton — Founder of Farm to SummitJoin us for an inspiring conversation with Louise “Lou” Barton, founder of Farm to Summit, a Durango-based company making dehydrated backpacking meals sourced from local farms and up-cycled produce.Lou shares how a 23-day Yellowstone backcountry research trip — and watching her coworkers struggle on low-quality trail food — sparked the idea for Farm to Summit. What started with a home dehydrator and farmers markets has grown into a mission-driven brand focused on sustainability, flavor, and fueling real adventures.In this episode we dive into:🥕 Sourcing thousands of pounds of produce fr...
2026-02-181h 03
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 18 | Leichtmut Creator & Owner Jacob MuthIn this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Jacob Muth, founder of Leichtmut, a small but innovative brand creating ultralight camera bags for hikers and outdoor photographers.Jacob shares how frustration with heavy camera carry systems and wet gear on trail pushed him to start designing his own solutions. What began as a MYOG (Make Your Own Gear) hobby turned into a real business focused on ultralight, waterproof, and quick-access camera bags for people who refuse to leave their camera behind.We dive into:📸 Why most camera bags fail on trail💧 How Jacob...
2026-02-1159 min
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 17 | Minimal Gear/Cnoc Founder & CEO Gilad Nachmani🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast — Episode 17Guest: Gilad Nachmani — Founder & CEO of Cnoc Outdoors / Minimal GearIn this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Gilad Nachmani, founder of Cnoc Outdoors, one of the most recognizable names in ultralight hydration and backpacking gear.Gilad shares the real story behind Cnoc — from launching the original Vecto water container on Kickstarter with almost no money, to scrambling to fulfill thousands of orders after an unexpected review from Darwin on the Trail. What started as a niche ultralight idea quickly became a must-have for thru-hikers worldwide.But this episod...
2026-02-041h 04
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 16 | Outdoor Vitals Founder & CEO Tayson Whittaker🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast — Episode 16Guest: Tayson Whittaker — Founder & CEO of Outdoor VitalsIn this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Tayson Whitaker, founder and CEO of Outdoor Vitals, for one of the most honest conversations yet about building a gear company the hard way — slowly, intentionally, and without shortcuts.Tayson shares what it was really like starting Outdoor Vitals at 23 years old with no money, why he rejected outside funding, and how a decade of pivots, patience, and painful lessons shaped the brand Outdoor Vitals is today. We go deep into product design, man...
2026-01-2851 min
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 15 | Lisa-Jae Eggert - Founder of 3 Moms Organics / TickWiseIn this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Lisa-Jae Eggert, founder of 3 Moms Organics and creator of TickWise, a plant-based bug and tick spray born from a life-altering personal battle with tick-borne disease.Lisa-Jae shares her harrowing journey—from a single tick bite that led to years of misdiagnosis, neurological Lyme disease, and devastating health consequences, to building a product with one clear mission: help prevent others from ever going through what she did.We dive into:🦠 How Lyme disease nearly destroyed her family🌿 Why she had to create a natural alternative to DEET...
2026-01-211h 15
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 14 | NEVE Owner/CEO Nora Fierman🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast — Episode 14Guest: Nora Fierman — Founder of NEVEIn this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Nora Fierman, founder of NEVE, a plant-based smoothie pouch designed for athletes who want real nutrition in the backcountry.Nora shares the full, honest story behind NEVE—from noticing athletes fueling with baby food in the backcountry, to spending six years navigating food science, manufacturing, and rejection before finally launching her brand. We dive into why flavor matters, why every ingredient has a purpose, and how NEVE fits perfectly between energy bars and gels.This con...
2026-01-1448 min
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 13 | GiantMouse Knives Co-Creator Jim WirthGuest: Jim Wirth — Creator, GiantMouse Join us for a deep and fascinating conversation with Jim Wirth, co-founder and CEO of GiantMouse Knives — a boutique knife brand known for thoughtful design, premium materials, and unforgettable storytelling. In this episode, Jim shares how a lifelong passion for knives, a chance meeting at a New York knife show, and a bold leap from the corporate world led to the creation of GiantMouse. We dive into the meaning behind the GiantMouse name, why limited runs matter, and how Scandinavian design principles shape every knife they make. Jim also opens up about the oh-crap mome...
2026-01-0659 min
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 12 | Tim Hunt | Inside the Mind of a Tent Designer at SlingFinGuest: Tim Hunt — Lead Designer, SlingFin In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Tim Hunt, lead designer at SlingFin, to break down how some of the most respected tents in the outdoor industry actually come to life. This conversation goes deep into design thinking, real-world testing, and the constant problem-solving that happens long before a tent ever hits the trail. Tim walks us through how SlingFin approaches structure, materials, storm-worthiness, and why design decisions are rarely simple — even when they look that way from the outside. We talk about: ⛺ How SlingFin designs tents for real condit...
2025-12-231h 16
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 11 | Devin Ashby | Creator of Backcountry Exposure Bags!Guest: Devin Ashby — Creator & Owner of Backcountry Exposure In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Devin Ashby, the creator behind Backcountry Exposure — a brand built one stitch at a time, often late at night, at a sewing machine in his own home. Devin shares the real, unfiltered journey of turning a decade of YouTube experience into a growing soft-goods business. We talk about what it’s like fulfilling 300+ bag orders solo, why small design details matter more than flashy features, and how years of relationship-building in the outdoor industry helped him survive legal battles, business pivots...
2025-12-181h 08
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 10 | Josh Bryson | CEO & Creator of the FKT GEAR Glasses🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast In this episode, Craig sits down with Josh Bryson, the creator of FKT Gear, a brand redefining what trail sunglasses should be. Frustrated with flimsy frames, foggy lenses, and gear that couldn’t keep up with real mountain conditions, Josh set out to engineer sunglasses that are tougher, clearer, lighter — and built specifically for hikers, runners, and adventurers pushing their limits. Josh breaks down: 🕶️ The exact moment he realized trail sunglasses needed a serious upgrade 🔧 How he engineered frames + lenses that survive real outdoor abuse 🌤️ Why clarity, contrast, and trail visibility matter more than people think 📦 The challenges...
2025-12-1845 min
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 9 | Shawn Willette | CEO & Creator of the AntiMatter ChairIn this episode, we sit down with Shawn Willette, the solo founder, designer, and engineer behind one of the most talked-about ultralight innovations in recent years — the AntiMatter Chair from No Matter. Shawn takes us through: • The exact moment the idea for the AntiMatter Chair hit him • How he engineered a chair that weighs almost nothing but holds full body weight • The brutal realities of being a one-person outdoor gear company • Sourcing materials, solving engineering failures, and navigating manufacturing • The emotional highs, lows, and “why am I doing this?” moments behind the brand • What’s next for No Matter — and why innovation alw...
2025-12-181h 03
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 8 | Haven Tents Creator | The Tent You’ve Never Seen Before!🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast — Episode 8 Guest: Derek Tillotson — Creator & CEO of Haven Tents In this episode, Craig sits down with Derek Tilson, the inventor behind Haven Tents, the lay-flat hammock tent that has changed the way thousands of people camp. From rough sketches and field tests to scaling a full outdoor brand, Derek shares the real story behind building one of the most innovative sleep systems in the backcountry world. We dive into: 🌲 How the idea for a flat-lay hammock was born 🛠️ The biggest challenges in designing a brand-new type of tent 💡 What it took to launch Haven Tents into a global commun...
2025-12-1854 min
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 7 | How One Misstep on Mount Whitney Led to a Helicopter Rescue🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Natalie Barral Summit day on Mount Whitney turned into one of the wildest survival stories we’ve ever shared on Beyond the Trailhead. In this episode, Craig talks with Natalie, a hiker who faced a brutal storm, a sprained ankle miles from the trailhead, and a night on the mountain that ended with a helicopter rescue. From hail and lightning to trail angels and real lessons in backcountry safety, this is one episode you won’t forget. ⚡ Hear how quick decisions, the right gear, and a little luck made all the difference. 🌲 Learn what to pack, what...
2025-12-1857 min
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 6 | Hollow Socks Co-Founder | He HATES Sticky Feet!🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Brian Davis — Co-Owner, Hollow Socks Join us for one of the most passionate and entertaining episodes yet with Brian Davis, the co-owner and inventor behind Hollow Socks — the ultralight, breathable socks designed to keep your feet dry, cool, and comfortable no matter how far the trail takes you. In this episode, Brian shares his creative journey — from designing innovative cycling and outdoor gear to launching Hollow Socks, a company born from his obsession with solving one of hiking’s biggest problems: sticky, sweaty feet. His energy and enthusiasm are contagious as he talks about the process o...
2025-12-181h 07
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 5 | Zenbivy CEO | How Zenbivy Changed the Game🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Mike Glavin — Founder & CEO, Zenbivy Join us for an inspiring conversation with Mike Glavin, the creator and CEO of Zenbivy, the company redefining backcountry sleep with its modular, ultra-comfortable sleep systems. In this episode, we dive into Mike’s journey — from years of working for major outdoor brands to taking the leap and building his own. He shares the story behind Zenbivy’s innovative design philosophy, what makes their sleep system truly unique, and how his incredible team continues to push the boundaries of comfort and performance in the outdoors. We also talk about lessons learn...
2025-12-181h 13
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 4 | RecPak CEO/Creator Nutrition Built for the Wild🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Deed — Founder & CEO, RecPak Join us for a powerful conversation with Deed, the creator and CEO of RecPak, the high-calorie, ultralight meal system built for serious expeditions, thru-hikes, and demanding backcountry missions. In this episode, we dig into the origin of RecPak — how a search for reliable nutrition on long expeditions turned into a full-scale performance meal company. Deed shares the challenges of building trust in a crowded outdoor marketplace, the science behind RecPak’s formulation, and why fueling adventure is about more than just calories. We also talk about expedition prep, endurance mindset, and what it...
2025-12-1854 min
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 3 | Grubcan CCO From Bear Safety to Brand Identity🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Holly Jaleski — Chief Creative Officer, Grubcan Join us for an inspiring conversation with Holly Jaleski, Chief Creative Officer at Grubcan, a brand bringing innovation, humor, and true personality to the world of backcountry bear safety and wildlife gear. In this episode, we dive into Holly’s creative journey, the story behind Grubcan’s bold identity, and how they’re changing the way outdoor brands connect with real adventurers. We talk about product design and why Grubcan is more than just gear — it’s a movement rooted in education, safety, and unforgettable branding. Holly also shares behind-the...
2025-12-1851 min
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 2 | X-Bionic CEO Talks Reinventing Performance Gear🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Maximilian Lenk — CEO of X-BIONIC Join us for a fascinating conversation with Maximilian Lenk, CEO of X-BIONIC, the Swiss brand redefining high-performance apparel through science, innovation, and cutting-edge design. In this episode, we dive into the story behind X-BIONIC’s revolutionary technologies, how they’ve blended biology and engineering to create gear that helps athletes perform at their peak, and Maximilian’s perspective on leading a company that pushes the limits of outdoor and sports apparel. We’ll also talk about their incredible line of performance shoes, built with the same innovation and precision that made X-BIO...
2025-12-1348 min
Beyond The TrailheadBeyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 1 | Near Zero Creator & CEO Talks Backpacking & Camping Gear🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead PodcastGuest: Scott Jensen — Founder & CEO of Near ZeroJoin us for a deep and inspiring conversation with Scott Jensen, the creator and CEO of Near Zero, a company on a mission to make lightweight, high-quality backpacking gear more accessible and user-friendly.In this episode, we dive into Scott’s outdoor roots, how the famous DEAN backpack came to life, and what it takes to grow a gear brand that truly serves the hiking community. We’ll also talk about Near Zero’s new rental program, their latest product updates, and the futur...
2025-12-0955 min
Live Ultralight Podcast | Backpacking, Travel, and AdventureEP 193: Hiking 140 Miles in 6 Days Part 2 - Craig Obrist on the Colorado TrailJoin Tayson and special guest Craig Obrist as they share stories from our recent 140 mile hike on a section of the Colorado Trail! Craig had to get off trail partway through - learn why. Have questions for us? Send us a voice message on Speakpipe: https://www.speakpipe.com/LiveUltraLight Or write in to support@outdoorvitals.com! Great Backpacking Gear (Support the Podcast): https://bit.ly/3PswpQi #outdoorvitals #entrepreneur #backpacking #backpackinggear
2025-09-021h 01
London Review Bookshop PodcastThe Secret Life: Andrew O'Hagan and Hans Ulrich ObristAndrew O’Hagan’s latest book The Secret Life brings together three of his finest long essays, each of them investigating the strange, vexed intersections and conflicts between the virtual and the real, and what they mean for the nature and construction of identity in the modern world. ‘Ghosting’ tells the story of O’Hagan’s difficult collaboration with Wikileaks founder Julian Assange; in ‘The Invention of Ronald Pinn’ he uses the real identity of a deceased young man to create an entirely spurious one that exists only in cyberspace, and ‘The Satoshi Affair’ explores the strange history of Craig Wright, the man who...
2017-08-151h 10