The Dirtbag Diaries

Derick Lugo’s first hike was the Appalachian Trail. By the time he finished six months later, he was transformed. As Mr. Fabulous, Derick has inspired audiences all over the country to get outdoors and put one foot in front of the other.  Get a signed copy of A Fabulous Thru-Hike or The Unlikely Thru-Hiker at Derick’s shop. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz  Darn Tough  Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2026

In this live recording from STRIB Unbound, host Fitz Cahall sits down with Josh Klauck and Jarrod Alder of Angry Catfish Bicycle Shop and Nasrieen Habib of Hiking Hijabie to talk about building community and getting outside in the great city of Minneapolis.  Thanks to Unbound for inviting us. Support comes from Darn Tough  Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Kuat Racks  Oboz  Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2026

Ultra runner Sara Aranda inherited a genetic mutation that took her mother away at a young age. In the years following, Sara has woven together storytelling and adventurism to pay tribute to her mother's memory and empower herself to keep fighting. In 2024, Sara made an audacious FKT attempt on a route that travels 130 miles from the lowest point in the continental United States to the highest.  Ofrenda documents Sara’s Lowest to Highest journey.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz  Darn Tough Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2026

In the outdoors, things don’t always go as planned. Seth Cohen and Skye Hart each set out to test themselves, one in the hills of Wyoming and one in the skies above Colombia, and both end up stuck, relying on the goodwill of strangers. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz Darn Tough  Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2026

It wasn't just any piece of rock. Portable may be the world's most famous boulder. Parlor trick, mascot, right of passage -- call it what you want, but this toaster-size piece of granite nestled in the lush forest of Squamish is a beloved fixture of the Canadian climbing scene. Then it went missing. When Portable turned up in the California desert, professional climber Ethan Salvo knew he had to get Portable home. He just didn't know what he'd be up against.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz Darn Tough Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Published: 17 April 2026

Years of dedication to conservation biology and an enduring love for animals led SJ Joslin to their dream job running the Big Wall Bats program in Yosemite National Park. But after hanging a flag on the side of El Capitan, they were fired, upending their life and sending them on a journey to better understand their rights and their duty to their community. And SJ must decide how far they would go to stand by their right to free speech. Support comes from ⁠Darn Tough⁠  Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Oboz  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2026

When immigration enforcement raids came to Los Angeles, Vanessa Herrera was packing her two kids into the car to head out on a rafting trip on the Klamath River. On their trip, Vanessa ponders the duality of being a Latina river rat and wonders how she can ensure her boys feel at home in their country’s wild places.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz  Darn Tough Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 27 March 2026

From a very young age, Nate George learned that if he wanted anything in this world, it was easier to just build it from scratch. In 2016, Nate opened a climbing gym in an old potato shed, financing it with revenue from his computer export business. Nate's return on investment was fostering a stoked climbing community in the flattest area of the United Kingdom.  Support comes from Darn Tough Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG ⁠Oboz⁠  Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 20 March 2026

On a flyfishing adventure to explore the High Sierra’s most remote valley, Rebecca Ramirez is the first to admit that, fifteen years ago, she’d have easily been voted “least likely to be here.” When she decides to cut the hooks off her flies and explore a new way to connect with trout, her dedication to conservation and commitment to mastery come full circle. Much of the music in today’s episode is from Rebecca’s band Par Avion Support comes from Oboz  Darn Tough Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Kuat Racks  Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries. You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 6 March 2026

What does it take to create something that lasts? Kathy Karlo is the executive director of No Man’s Land Film Festival, the first film festival by and for women and genderqueer adventurers. Kathy talks to Diaries producer Lauren DeLaunay Miller about staying scrappy, finding hope through community, and securing a vibrator sponsorship.  No Man’s Land Film Festival is in Denver Saturday, March 7th. Support comes from Oboz Love Hiking Darn Tough Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries. You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 27 February 2026

Biting cold, freshly fallen snow, frozen lakes– what could be better? Brooke Maushund and Carrick Gambell take us through the joys of winter from the mountains of Patagonia to the forests of New England.  Support comes from ⁠Darn Tough⁠ Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Kuat Racks  Oboz  Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 13 February 2026

Saying yes to out of the box ideas can lead to incredible places. Alex Honnold’s live solo of the Taipei 101 tower seemed to spring out of nowhere, but it was the culmination of more than a decade of effort to make the moment happen. Today, we sit down for a debrief. Support comes from Oboz  Darn Tough (through early July) Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 6 February 2026

Gazing out at the magnificent coastline of Big Sur, Justin Krompier realized his day job wasn't going to cut it.  Following a decades long battle with drug addiction, Justin decided to take a leap of faith, leaving the stability of a 9-5 for a life of adventure on the road with his camera.  Support comes from ⁠Darn Tough⁠ Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Kuat Racks  Oboz  Ka’Chava New customers get $20 off an order of 2 bags or more at https://kachava.com  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 23 January 2026

In August of 2025, professional adventure cyclist Sarah Swallow spent over a month bikepacking from the Pacific Ocean to the Eastern slopes of the Rockies. Her goal? To scout a new formal bikepacking route developed by the Adventure Cycling Association which stretches from the Mississippi River to Oregon: The Golden Gravel Trail. Sarah breaks down the highs and lows of her mostly solo bikepacking trip. Support comes from Oboz  Darn Tough Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Ka’Chava New customers get $20 off an order of 2 bags or more at https://kachava.com  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 16 January 2026

Andy Cochrane hails from a Park Service cabin in Minnesota and has lived the life many dirtbags dream of. He spent years on the road, funding his travel through skillful storytelling and photography. While out on a long trail run, he realized something was missing, and decided to create it. As he brought friends and community members on board, he discovered someone else had the same idea. It quickly starts to look like Andy, Ian MacLellan and Rickey Gates are in a race to complete the 50 Classic Trails of America, and the result will undoubtedly shape the future of trail running.  Support comes from Oboz  Darn Tough Free shipping on any order with code DIRTBAG Kuat Racks  Ka’Chava New customers get $20 off an order of 2 bags or more at https://kachava.com Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 9 January 2026

As a high school teacher in Santa Maria, CA, Taylor Mihelic understands the power of a field trip. Whether it’s plant identification hikes through the forests, or habitat restoration projects on the coast, Taylor gets the best out of her students when there’s adventure in the air. During her summer break this year, Taylor took her own field trip on the tour divide bike race, exploring the edge of her limits and teaching herself a lesson in optimism along the way. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 26 December 2025

Time spent outside as kids can extend into our adult lives in incredible ways. Jay Inslee’s passion for being outside shaped his path from his three terms as governor of Washington all the way to the national level. His pioneering policy work is having an impact in Washington state and proving that change is possible if we bring our determination to the world’s biggest problems.  Support comes from Oboz Through Dec 19th, nominate your favorite trail org⁠ for a chance to win $1000 donation from Oboz Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Kuat Racks Diaries+ ⁠ You can join today⁠ and we'll send you the Diaries theme song to use as your ringtone. ⁠Gift memberships⁠ available too. Looking for a gift that will inspire? Our book,⁠ States of Adventure⁠, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your⁠ local shelves⁠ or order it here:⁠ geni.us/StatesofAdventure And Then What Actions Learn More about Oak Flat (Access Fund | Apache Stronghold) Adelita Grijalva’s Save Oak Flat From Foreign Mining Act

Transcribed - Published: 19 December 2025

Loss can create an emotional cocktail when something or someone is unceremoniously ripped from our life. Amie Renaud and Joanna Henry invite us along through their circuitous roads through grief.  After the sudden end of a relationship, Amie embarks on a grand bikepacking trip. Right as she’s finally settling in, she finds herself picking up the pieces again. Joanna hadn’t reconciled the loss of her brother. But a visit from an uninvited, and surprisingly tenacious, guest, forces her to reckon with those unresolved feelings. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz : Nominate your favorite trail org for a chance to win $1000 donation from Oboz Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Diaries+ You can join today and we'll send you the Diaries theme song to use as your ringtone. Gift memberships available too. Looking for a gift that will inspire? Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 12 December 2025

Shane Schieffer just swam the entire length of Lake Powell self-supported in 11 days. He also just turned 50 years old and had no previous experience in long distance swimming. Shane talks about following through on personal challenges, no matter how far-fetched they seem at the moment.     Check out ⁠Shane's Instagram for his videos that documented his swim. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz Through Dec 19th, nominate your favorite trail org⁠ for a chance to win $1000 donation from Oboz Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 30% off your next order by Dec 2nd Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Looking for holiday gift ideas? Consider States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 28 November 2025

What do we want and what do we need? Sara Holzknecht started skiing every month of the year as a way to shake off the unexpected upheavals of life and the pandemic. Then her kids wanted in. Gabby Markel was living a dirtbag dream, but something was missing. She confronts the less glamorous aspects of vanlife and grapples with feeling untethered from community.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz Washington Discover Pass: Get your Pass at discoverpass.wa.gov Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 30% off your next order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 21 November 2025

Mount Bachelor, one of America’s largest and beloved ski resorts, was put up for sale in August of 2024 after two decades of contentious corporate ownership. Sensing a sliver of opportunity, a high school teacher, a housing appraiser and local home builder launched a community campaign to put this ski hill back in the hands of locals. What started as a Facebook thread, snowballed into a legitimate would-be buyer with $100 million in local backing that collided into Wall Street players, the specter of climate change and the looming reality that the joy of skiing is no longer a simple business to run. This is the 2nd episode in a two part series. Start with Part 1 Submit your Short by Nov 16th Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz  Washington Discover Pass: Get your Pass at discoverpass.wa.gov Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 14 November 2025

Mount Bachelor, one of America’s largest and beloved ski resorts, was put up for sale in August of 2024 after two decades of contentious corporate ownership. Sensing a sliver of opportunity, a high school teacher, a housing appraiser and local home builder launched a community campaign to put this ski hill back in the hands of locals. What started as a Facebook thread, snowballed into a legitimate would-be buyer with $100 million in local backing that collided into Wall Street players, the specter of climate change and the looming reality that the joy of skiing is no longer a simple business to run. Submit your Short by Nov 16th Support comes from ⁠Oboz⁠  Kuat Racks  Washington Discover Pass: Get your Pass at discoverpass.wa.gov Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 31 October 2025

We seek solitude. We find that place a little further out to camp, a couple of extra miles down trail. Sometimes curiosity pulls us farther off the beaten path. Maybe the late afternoon feels just a little more perfect in an isolated basin. But what happens when the darkness closes in, leaving us with only a bubble of tepid light from a headlamp? Welcome to our annual Tales of Terror. Support comes from ⁠Oboz⁠  Kuat Racks  Washington Discover Pass: Get your Pass at discoverpass.wa.gov Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 24 October 2025

Some people look at ranges and imagine lines. Kílian Jornet looks at continents. Last week, Kílian completed a truly incredible adventure that was hiding in plain sight. Over the course of 31 days, the renowned mountain athlete climbed 72 fourteeners in the lower, 48 connecting them all by bike. Before he left Washington, we had a chance to sit down and talk about how he approaches projects like States of Elevation.  Want to write a Short for the Diaries? We’re accepting submissions through Nov 16, 2025. More info  Support comes from Oboz  Kuat Racks  Washington Discover Pass: Get your Pass at discoverpass.wa.gov Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order. (don’t tag on social) Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 10 October 2025

The bonds we forge during mountain adventures and shared experiences, especially with family, can profoundly shape us. Explorer and author Mark Jenkins reflects on learning to rock climb in Vedauwoo from his swim Coach, and how those lessons permeated his life and eventually into teaching his own daughters how to climb.  Oak Jones's childhood was defined by keeping pace with his two older brothers. Though their paths have diverged, Oak organized a raft trip, because, he writes, “Relationships, like plants, need fresh water to grow.” Would their flimsy paddles be enough to navigate the Arkansas river? Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz Washington Discover Pass: Get your Pass at discoverpass.wa.gov Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 26 September 2025

The Mississippi River. The Big Muddy. The Great River. When musician JW Francis left the river’s source in northern Minnesota and started heading for the sea, he’d had about two hours in canoeing to his name and little idea of what to expect. What he learned and the people he met left a mark on his creativity and perspective.  Support comes from Oboz  Washington Discover Pass: Get your Pass at discoverpass.wa.gov Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. And Then What actions Submit your comment about the Roadless Rule Grand Canyon Trust’s form is specific to Utah and Arizona Outdoor Alliance’s form works for all of the US Explore Roadless Areas Near You See if your Rep has co-sponsored Roadless Area Conservation Act  (2025)

Transcribed - Published: 12 September 2025

Five days, 231.82 miles, 85,967 vertical feet, nearly 94 hours of moving time - this is the White Mountain Direttissima as experienced by ultra-athlete Andrew Drummond. A rugged DIY run that connects all 48 of the White Mountains’ 4,000ft peaks in New Hampshire, the Direttissima has developed a lore of its own. Andrew shares his multi-year journey through the spectrum of microclimates, peaks, valleys, and stages of exhaustion. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz  Washington Discover Pass: Get your Pass at discoverpass.wa.gov Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 5 September 2025

When big transitional moments occur in our lives, the way we navigate them and what helps shift our perspective can often come from unexpected places. After graduation and a summer of feeling melancholy, Carol Doyle challenged herself to a 50 mile bike ride hoping it would remove the figurative goggles that obscured the world around her. Heartbroken and seeking solitude at his family’s cabin, Ben Burke is unexpectedly joined by his dad.  Submit your Tale of Terror HERE by Sept 30th Support comes from Oboz  Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order  Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 22 August 2025

Growing up as identical twins in England, Poppy and Thea Wardley were practically attached at the hip. Their lives finally diverged when Poppy enrolled in medical school and Thea attended university a few hours away. After a few years of burnout from the unrelenting pace of school, Poppy pitches Thea on a bold adventure thousands of miles away to reconnect their twinship– hiking the PCT.  Support comes from Oboz  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order  Washington Discover Pass: Get your Pass at discoverpass.wa.govKuat Racks  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 15 August 2025

For  Sam Webster, public lands have been interwoven with life from the earliest age. He followed a path into public service with the Park and Forest Service, choosing stability and the ability to contribute to the great good. Until Feb 14th changed that course forever. What happens when the foundation you've built a life on begins to crumble?  Support comes from ⁠Oboz⁠  Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 8 August 2025

Every July, nearly 20,000 cyclists from around the world swarm the roads of Iowa for one week to ride across the state. It’s hot. It’s humid. And it’s not as flat as one may think. Iowa resident Caleb Smith shares his RAGBRAI journey, complete with a buffet of midwestern charm: homemade pies, barn parties, sunsets over fields of corn. But he doesn’t ride a bike, he inline skates. s. Thanks to our sponsors Oboz Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 25 July 2025

Runner, writer, illustrator and all around human Brendan Leonard made a career of doing what he loves. Yes it’s passion and wild creativity, but it’s also the unheralded traits of persistence, thoughtful compromise and perspective that keeps him doing what he loves.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 18 July 2025

Growth happens outside your comfort zone. Sometimes this comes by choice, like committing to guiding rafts on a new river and trading out your nimble kayak for the biggest barge in the fleet as Jessie Longe did. Sometimes you step out not even knowing it, like Lili Mitchell did when she showed up to a trailhead to an unexpected surprise. Either way, you must push through the rough waters ahead to walk away wiser. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order. Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. And Then What Actions Learn more about the campaign at ⁠⁠Save The Boundary Waters⁠⁠.Raise your voice and call your Congress person to tell them why the Boundary Waters are important to you: 202-224-3121   Follow ⁠⁠Save the Boundary Waters⁠⁠ on Instagram to stay in the know.

Transcribed - Published: 11 July 2025

To escape record breaking crowds in Zion National Park, Marco Siler-Gonzales decides to take his girlfriend, Lena Ohlson, on an unmarked and seldom hiked trail. Heading back towards the car, Marco leads Lena around a wrong turn, leaving them in a dangerous situation. Years later he struggles to come to terms with his actions.     Support comes from Oboz Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Ka’Chava Go to https://kachava.com and use code DIARIES for 15% off your next order.Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today.

Transcribed - Published: 27 June 2025

In March of 2025, Emily Ford lined up at the starting line of one of the world’s most difficult races – The Iditarod. To race this iconic event hadn’t been a lifelong dream but rather the next step on Emily’s pursuit of her passions – cold quiet places and four legged friends. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. And Then What Actions 3 million acres of Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management lands are currently slated to be sold. Call your Senators and tell them: Don't Sell Public Lands. Call 202-224-3121 ⁠Write

Transcribed - Published: 20 June 2025

Finding out what we’re capable of takes trial and error and a whole lot of trust. For Meg Morris and Emmye Vernet, they each had a guide who helped them see another side of the outdoors.  For Meg, her dad fostered her love of fishing, from Maine to Alaska to Tijuana, and helped her navigate through an unexpected challenge. Though Emmye didn’t grow up feeling at home outside, her best friend Rose helps her revel in the outdoors, partnership and love.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries and making our And Then What series possible. You can join today. And Then What Actions 3 million acres of Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management lands are currently slated to be sold. Call your Senators and tell them: Don't Sell Public Lands. Call 202-224-3121 Write

Transcribed - Published: 13 June 2025

In the fall of 2015, photographer Pete McBride and writer Kevin Fedarko embarked on a journey to rally support to protect one of our most awe-inspiring national treasures: the Grand Canyon. Their method? A 700+ mile sectional thru-hike of the wilderness that lies between the rim and the river. They knew the trek would challenge them, but they had no idea how quickly and completely the canyon would leave them demoralized and physically destroyed. The two of them were contemplating giving up, when, as Kevin puts it, ‘A miracle happened’. Today, a story about three people who have dedicated the better part of their lives to developing a unique skill–and a project so complicated and important that it required their cumulative experience to pull it off. It’s also a story about friendship, and how friends working together for a common goal can lead to something greater than the sum of its parts. In addition to writing A Walk in the Park, Kevin also wrote The Emerald Mile. We talked with him about that process in The Threshold Moment (Apple | Spotify)  Watch some of the highlights of Kevin and Peter’s hike. Check out Pete’s photography and film work as well as Into The Canyon. To learn more about the current threats to the Grand Canyon visit Save the Confluence Support comes from Oboz Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order ⁠Kuat Racks⁠  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Then What Actions Call your Senators at 202-224-3121 ⁠Or write⁠ them

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

In 1994, Forrest Gump took the box-office by storm and became a staple of cable TV reruns in the following decades. Its feel good message about a simple man who lived life heart first struck a chord, but hidden inside a six minute montage was a grueling test of the human limits -- a 15,000 mile ultrarun across the US almost five times. In 2018, Rob Pope became the first to complete this superhuman run, and became fascinated with others who push their limits.   Listen to Rob talk with other superhuman folks on How To Be Superhuman Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Then What Actions Call your Senators at 202-224-3121 ⁠⁠Or write⁠⁠ them Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2025

Mild-mannered, elementary school teacher Jason Hardrath may be a superhero. After competing in college as a cross country athlete, he turned to triathlons and then Iron Mans to push the limits of his endurance. Simultaneously, he developed his skills in the mountains and soon sought to combine the two, setting an audacious goal-- the first person to complete 100 Fastest Known Time (FKT). Jason's endurance and commitment seemed unending. That is, until he got COVID. Cascade Trifecta FKT Long COVID resources Support comes from Kuat Racks  Oboz  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Public Lands in Public Hands Caucus Has your Representative has joined the new caucus?   Find Your US Representative Find your Representative's phone number. Call them! Your message can be simple– I’m a constituent who loves public lands. I’m urging Representative XX to ask leadership to remove the public lands sell off from the reconciliation bill.   Then What Actions Call your Senators at 202-224-3121 ⁠⁠Or write⁠⁠ them

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2025

Over the last few years, students at Utah State University built a weekly ritual at their school gym to grow the climbing community on campus. When Utah’s legislature passed a contentious bill last year, that routine was stripped away after. Students rallied to raise awareness, fighting to keep their weekly meet-up alive.      Support comes from Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Oboz Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. And Then What Actions Call your Senators at 202-224-3121 ⁠⁠Or write⁠⁠ them

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2025

Shifting paradigms is hard work, but sometimes it can be a whole heap of Type II Fun as well. In 2019, Stratton Matteson sought to find out if he could get away with only human powered mountain access for a whole year. Five years into his quest, he shares what he’s learned. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Oboz Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. And Then What Actions Call your Senators at 202-224-3121 ⁠⁠Or write⁠⁠ them

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2025

What does it take to run an ultramarathon? Or top out a boulder that makes you stretch what you think you're capable of? Tenacity. From our seat, we see it happen all the time in our community. Today, Coleman Wood and Brian Laidlaw bring us two stories about rising up and meeting the challenge that they laid out for themselves.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Oboz Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. And Then What Actions Call your Senators at 202-224-3121 ⁠⁠Or write⁠⁠ them

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2025

Just 10 years ago, the director of the Barkley Marathons declared that the race was too tough for any woman to complete it. Meanwhile, Jasmin Paris, a mild-mannered veterinarian from Scotland was smashing records in the ultramarathon world. It wasn’t too long before Jasmin set her sights on the Barkley.  It’s not everyday you make history. For Jasmin, breaking barriers comes naturally.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order  Oboz Register for Trails For Trees by March 31, 2025 Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. And Then What Actions Call your Senators at 202-224-3121 ⁠⁠Or write⁠⁠ them

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2025

Erik Grams has been taking trips to the Boundary Waters in Minnesota for over 30 years. It's his favorite place in the world. But last year, a fatal accident on a fishing trip that Erik was leading changed his life. On this episode from our friends at Points North, we hear Erik's harrowing story and how he has wrestled with his feelings about a place he’s loved for decades. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Oboz Register for Trails for Trees by March 31st Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2025

After his personal life takes a surprise turn, Luis Alonzo dares to reinvent himself by trying something far outside his comfort zone– climbing Mt. Rainier. With a crew of other novice climbers, Luis spends six months prepping for summit day. Will the climb move him closer to being the person he wants to be? Support comes from Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order  Oboz  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 14 March 2025

Loss. Grief. Healing. It’s part of being human. The emotions that almost tear us apart have the power to bring us together. Today, we bring you two powerful stories from Alison Kaplan and Monica Nigon.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 28 February 2025

It started so harmlessly. Four years ago, professional skier Brody Leven embarked on a simple challenge – exercise outdoors everyday. In a complicated moment in time and life, it was a way to exert some control over his day to day. It was never supposed to last forever.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 21 February 2025

Matt Martin and his fiancé, Hannah, were just starting out on their shared life, when a breast cancer diagnosis rewrote the script they’d imagined for life. Matt stepped into a new role – caregiver. Life became a blur of treatment, worry and existing with unknown outcomes. After a year of caring for Hannah, Matt received the chance to attend one of First Descent's week-long trips down the famed Rogue River. Under the guidance of legendary kayaker and cancer survivor Willie Kern, Matt’s week on the river left him with a lasting understanding of the difference between reacting and responding to the difficult stretches.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Terns Use code DIRTBAG to save 25% off your first order Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 14 February 2025

Raised in the hollers of West Virginia, coal ran deep in Corey Lilly’s family, but it was the local ski hill with 600 feet of vertical that sparked his imagination and started an improbable run into professional skiing. After a head injury permanently impacted his vision and ended his career, Corey returned home to a struggling economy and the depths of the opioid epidemic. It takes a certain kind of person to see opportunity where others miss it and Corey went to work building a new future for himself and his community. Learn more about the Grasstops Collective and get involved. Support comes from Kuat Racks  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 31 January 2025

Welcome to Good Good Bad, our series kickstarted by our Diaries+ Members. Every adventure has its good parts, even better bits and its difficult moments. These memories create rich experiences, friendships and learning. Today, we tackle the Cape Loop, a rugged, but rewarding bikepacking loop around the southern tip of Baja.  Support comes from Kuat Racks  Diaries+ Members-- Their support is powering the Diaries- thank you! You can join today. Our book, States of Adventure, 30 stories adapted from The Diaries, is out in the wild. See if it's available on your local shelves or order it here: geni.us/StatesofAdventure

Transcribed - Published: 24 January 2025