13,000 Miles of AT Hiking - Steve "Walmart" Yale (Part I)

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Steve 'Walmart' Yale, an experienced thru hiker who has completed the Appalachian Trail six times. Yale shares insights into why he keeps returning to the trail, his logistics and gear choices, and the transformative experiences he has had. The conversation covers his initial challenges, encounters with wildlife, and how the trail has shaped his perspective on life. Yale also touches on personal tragedies, such as the loss of his son, and how hiking has helped him cope. The episode concludes with practical hiking tips and a discussion on night hiking. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, Doc interviews Steve 'Walmart' Yale, an experienced thru hiker with over 13,000 trail miles under his belt. They discuss Steve's unconventional start using Walmart gear, his colorful trail experiences, and his unique insights into the Appalachian Trail. Steve shares his background, including his time as a carnival worker, and his many adventures on the trail, offering valuable tips to both current and aspiring hikers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rocket and Stump dig deep into the real causes of extreme trail hunger, the hormonal chaos driving it, and the tricks thru hikers use to fight back. From metabolic ceilings to craving-driven pig-outs, this episode breaks down what really happens to your body and brain on the long trail. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc welcomes Dylan 'Mister Six' Thomas, who shares his extraordinary adventure of utilizing a Six Flags dining pass to its fullest. From saving on meals to riding rollercoasters almost daily, Dylan recounts how his unique lifestyle choice garnished international attention and how it eventually led to significant life changes, including paying off student loans and buying a house. Tune in to hear about the 'Six Flag stomach,' viral fame, and the peculiar delicacies like chicken balls and the Thanksgiving dog, all adding to a remarkable journey through Magic Mountain. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc talks with Luke 'Bus' Pearsall, founder of Trail Goods Company. Luke shares his journey from working in Hollywood to leading treks in South America at the age of 25, despite having never left the country before. He discusses the challenges and adventures that shaped him, leading to his eventual founding of Trail Goods Co., a company specializing in premium freeze-dried camping meals. Luke elaborates on his passion for the culinary arts, driven by family influences and a background in photography and film production. The episode also covers the hurdles of launching a food business, his love for the outdoor community, and the intricacies of crafting high-quality trail meals that evoke memorable outdoor experiences. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc converses with Luke 'Bus' Pearsall, a thru hiker and the founder of Trail Goods Company. Luke shares his experiences on various trails, how he earned his trail name, and the story behind starting his trail food company. The discussion includes his adventures on the Colorado Trail, his worst gear mistake, and how his upbringing influenced his love for the outdoors. Luke also recounts his unique career journey from working on popular TV shows like Lost and Entourage to guiding tours in South America, including a harrowing kidnapping experience in Chile. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc talks with Mike 'Snazzy' Stone, a Triple Crown thru hiker known for his high fashion sense on the trail. Snazzy shares his journey of completing the PCT in 2019, the AT in 2021, and the CDT in 2024. With captivating stories of solitude, blister battles, harsh weather conditions, and encounters with wildlife, Snazzy provides an in-depth look at what it takes to achieve the Triple Crown of hiking. He also offers insights into his motivations, gear choices, and future adventures, including his passion for the lesser-known Florida Trail. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc converses with Triple Crown thru hiker Mike 'Snazzy' Stone. They discuss Snazzy's journey across the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, and Continental Divide Trail. Snazzy shares insights on gear preferences, trail experiences, and gives a humorous take on his hiker trash moments. He recounts the challenges, the joy of completing the Triple Crown, and the unwavering support from his wife. The episode covers the nuances of through hiking, from dealing with bad weather and gear failure to the emotional highs of finishing monumental hikes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rocket and Stump break down the unwritten social rules every thru hiker needs to know, from Leave No Trace and yielding etiquette to quiet hours in camp. This episode dives into the everyday norms that keep the long-trail community safe, supportive, and fun for everyone. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special bonus episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc welcomes back Anna 'Magic' McKinney-Smith, the podcast's 2025 PCT Correspondent, who has successfully completed the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Recorded two months after finishing the trek, Anna shares her insights and experiences, from the high challenges of Northern California's burnt areas to the relatively easier terrains of Oregon and the rugged beauty of Washington. Doc and Anna discuss the ups and downs of her journey, including mosquito-infested regions, the camaraderie of trail towns, and the mental resilience needed to complete such an extensive hike. They also touch on the bittersweet emotions of finishing the trail and adjusting back to normal life, while contemplating future hiking adventures. This episode is packed with trail tales, practical tips, and deep reflections on the long hike experience. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.