Hi, I'm Willow Belden and you're listening to Out There, the podcast that explores big questions through intimate stories in the outdoors.

Before we get into this week's story, I have some exciting news. There's this thing called Patreon,

which is a crowdfunding platform for creative endeavors. It's kind of like Kickstarter, except that it allows you to contribute

small amounts on an ongoing basis. Anyway, out there is now on Patreon, and our first fundraising

goal is to be able to cover some of the show's basic overhead costs, things like our website and audio hosting service.

So if you're enjoying the show, we would love for you to kick in a dollar or two a month, or more if you're able.

You'll have our undying gratitude and you'll also be eligible for some great rewards.

You can find us at patreon.com slash Out There podcast,

and of course we've got links on our website as well.

Okay, onto today's story. So stories about the outdoors often focus on the pros, the best skiers and runners and cyclists, the fastest through hikers, rock climbers who push the limits of what's possible.

But what about the rest of us? What if you want to get outside, but you don't have the right gear,

the right training, or the confidence to venture into the land of no cell phone reception?

Today's story comes to us from a man just like that. His name is Ryan Haupt, and he's a scientist

finishing up grad school at the University of Wyoming. Ryan enjoys the outdoors. He likes going mountain

biking and hiking and skiing. But those sports aren't his life. They're just hobbies.

And so when he's out in nature, he often feels like he doesn't belong. I'll let him take it from here.

It's 4 a.m.

It's time to get up.

If we wait any longer, the snows above the tree line will melt just enough to not hold our weight,

making the climb to the top that much harder, or so I'm told.

I hear my phone buzz and alarm.

It's suspended above me in the tiny gadget hammock of our tent, which is a technical term I just made up.

...