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- 🇩🇰DK · Entrepreneurship#126500 to 3K
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150 to 900🎙 Daily cadence·27 episodes·Last published today - Monthly Reach
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500 to 3K🇩🇰100% - Active Followers
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275 to 1.6K
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On the show
Recent episodes
Bearvault's Marketing & Sales Grant Breidenbach | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 30
May 12, 2026
Unknown duration
Garage Grown Gear's Lloyd Vogel | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 29
May 5, 2026
Unknown duration
Outdoor Retailers Lindsay Hubley & Sunny Stroeer | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 28
Apr 27, 2026
Unknown duration
Enlightened Equipment CEO Chris Schawlow | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 27
Apr 15, 2026
Unknown duration
Sawyer Products Community Manager Katie Houston | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 26
Apr 8, 2026
Unknown duration
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| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
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| 5/12/26 | ![]() Bearvault's Marketing & Sales Grant Breidenbach | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 30 | In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Grant Breidenbach, Sales and Marketing Manager at BearVault, the company behind some of the most recognized bear-resistant food containers in the outdoor industry.If you backpack in bear country, there’s a good chance you’ve carried a BearVault… loved it, hated it, sat on it, stuffed it into your pack, or fought with it at the end of a long day.Grant shares the story behind BearVault, how the company started from a need to reduce human-bear conflict in the Sierra, and why their mission is about more than just protecting your food. It’s about keeping bears wild and keeping people safe outdoors.We also dive into:• The history of BearVault• The 5-year design process behind the new BV ONE• Why bear cans are required in so many wild places• How bears actually test these products• The truth about “bear-proof” vs. bear-resistant• Why the BV ONE collapses as your food stash shrinks• What went wrong during freezing rain testing• Counterfeit bear cans and why certification matters• The challenge of marketing a product people already ownThis episode is packed with gear design, wildlife education, product testing stories, and plenty of funny bear-can reality.If you’ve ever complained about carrying a bear can… this one is for you.Connect with BearVaultWebsite: https://bearvault.comBV ONE: https://bearvault.com/products/bv-oneInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bearvaultListen to Beyond the TrailheadYouTube: https://youtube.com/@BeyondthetrailheadApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcastWebsite: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
| 5/5/26 | ![]() Garage Grown Gear's Lloyd Vogel | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 29 | In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, we sit down with Lloyd Vogel, CEO of Garage Grown Gear. The platform that has helped launch and grow some of the most innovative brands in the outdoor industry.What started as a small side hustle in a basement turned into a powerhouse marketplace supporting 300+ small outdoor brands and Lloyd’s story is one every founder needs to hear.We dive into:• How Garage Grown Gear actually started (hint: it involved a giveaway)• The reality of building a business from scratch• Why small brands struggle to scale — and how to fix it• The truth about competition, copycats, and innovation in ultralight gear• What separates brands that make it… from the ones that don’tLloyd also shares behind-the-scenes insight into how they discover new brands, what makes a product stand out, and why most founders burn out before they succeed.If you’re building a brand, love gear, or just want to understand how the outdoor industry really works this episode is packed.👉 “Adversity isn’t a setback… it’s the process.” 🎙️ Follow Lloyd & Garage Grown GearInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/garagegrowngearWebsite: https://www.garagegrowngear.comListen to Beyond the TrailheadYouTube: https://youtube.com/@BeyondthetrailheadApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcastWebsite: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
| 4/27/26 | ![]() Outdoor Retailers Lindsay Hubley & Sunny Stroeer | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 28 | Is Outdoor Retailer still worth attending?That’s the question a lot of outdoor brands have been asking.In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Lindsay Hubley and Sunny Stroeer of Outdoor Retailers to talk about the future of Outdoor Retailer and why they believe trade shows are evolving.We talk about:• Why Outdoor Retailer changed locations• Why some brands stopped attending• The creator economy changing outdoor marketing• Why influencers now matter just as much as retail buyers• Their partnership with Popfly• Why small brands may actually benefit the most• The future of retail, media, and outdoor storytelling• How brands can actually win at trade shows todayThey also address why some people feel OR “lost its magic” and what they’re doing to rebuild it.This was one of the most interesting business conversations we’ve had on the podcast because it touches retail, creators, marketing, and where the outdoor industry is headed next.Learn More:Outdoor Retailerhttps://outdoorretailer.comPopflyhttps://popfly.comGarage Grown Gearhttps://www.garagegrowngear.comFounded Outdoorshttps://www.foundedoutdoors.comListen to Beyond the TrailheadYouTube: https://youtube.com/@BeyondthetrailheadApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcastWebsite: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
| 4/15/26 | ![]() Enlightened Equipment CEO Chris Schawlow | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 27 | What does it take to build one of the most recognized brands on trail?In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, we sit down with Chris Schabow, CEO of Enlightened Equipment, to talk about the real story behind the brand… and the journey that almost didn’t happen.From sewing gear in a basement…To quitting a stable career…To helping lead one of the most trusted ultralight brands in the world…Chris shares the ups, the risks, and the moments that changed everything.We also dive into:• How Enlightened Equipment actually started• Why quilts changed backpacking forever• The real challenges of scaling a gear company• Product design, mistakes, and constant refinement• Why doing fewer things REALLY well matters• The story behind the Torrid jacket• Leadership, risk, and building a team you trustIf you’ve ever used a quilt on trail… there’s a good chance it traces back to this story.Follow Chris + Enlightened EquipmentWebsite: https://alnk.to/eZKBiaeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/enlightenedequipmentFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/enlightenedequipmentListen to Beyond the TrailheadYouTube: https://youtube.com/@BeyondthetrailheadApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcastWebsite: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
| 4/8/26 | ![]() Sawyer Products Community Manager Katie Houston | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 26 | USE CODE BEYOND20 for 20% on your sawyer most of your Sawyer ordersWhat if the gear you carry on trail could actually save lives?In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Katie Houston (trail name “Oats”), Community Director at Sawyer, the company behind the iconic Sawyer Squeeze.We dive into how a simple water filter became one of the most impactful tools in the outdoor industry and how it’s being used around the world to bring clean water to communities in need.Katie shares her story from eating dry oats on the Appalachian Trail (yes… really) to helping lead a brand that donates over 90% of its profits to clean water initiatives globally.We also get into:• The real story behind the Sawyer Squeeze• What actually happens inside your filter• Why most people use their gear wrong• How Sawyer responded during Hurricane Helene• The impact of clean water around the world• The reality of working in the outdoor industry• And how one small piece of gear can change everythingSome of these stories are wild… and some hit pretty hard.If you’ve ever carried a Sawyer filter, this will completely change how you see it.Follow Katie / SawyerSawyer Products: https://www.sawyer.com/Sawyer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawyerproducts/Make a Tax Deductible Donation to www.sawyerfoundation.org(Katie): https://www.oatshikes.com/💬 Drop a comment:Have you ever used a Sawyer filter on trail?Listen to Beyond the TrailheadYouTube: https://youtube.com/@BeyondthetrailheadApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcastWebsite: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
| 4/1/26 | ![]() Angry Pika CEO/Founder Shaun Durkee | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 25 | What do you do when you lose 75% of your business overnight?In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Shaun Durkee, founder of Angry Pika Food (formerly Alpenfuel).What started as a side hustle selling backpacking meals turned into a full-blown business… until tariffs, a rebrand, and a legal battle forced everything to change.This episode dives deep into the real side of building an outdoor brand.We talk about:• The moment everything started to fall apart• Losing 50–75% of website traffic overnight• The forced rebrand from Alpenfuel to Angry Pika• The reality of tariffs and product costs• Building high-calorie backpacking food from scratch• Why most outdoor businesses don’t make itThis one is raw, honest, and a must-watch if you’re building something of your own.🥾 Check Out Angry Pika FoodWebsite: https://angrypikafood.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/angrypikafoodDealer Locator: Available on websiteInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/angrypikafood🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors — you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
| 3/25/26 | ![]() Essential Provisions CEO/Creator Robin Gentry McGee | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 24 | Use code BEYOND15 to save 15% off your next order on essentialprovisions.com.What happens when you realize the food meant to help people… might actually be hurting them?In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Robin Gentry McGee, founder of Essential Provisions.Her journey started with a life-changing moment after her father’s traumatic brain injury… and what she discovered inside hospital nutrition completely shifted her path.That moment led to the creation of a product that would go on to change clinical nutrition… and eventually evolve into what she’s building today with Essential Provisions.We talk about:• The moment that started it all• Building a company from scratch (twice)• The ups and downs of scaling and losing a business• Why most “healthy” food isn’t what it seems• Creating real, whole-food meals for the outdoorsThis one is all about resilience, purpose, and doing things the right way… even when it’s harder.🥾 Check Out Essential ProvisionsWebsite: https://essentialprovisions.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/essentialprovisions🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors — you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
| 3/18/26 | ![]() Aarn Packs CEO Daniel Farber | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 23 | In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Daniel Farber, owner of Aarn Packs, one of the most unique and innovative backpack companies in the hiking world.If you’ve ever seen a backpack with balanced front pockets and wondered why it looks so different from traditional packs,this episode explains everything.Aarn Packs were designed around a simple but powerful idea: balance the weight of your pack so hiking becomes easier, safer, and more comfortable.Daniel shares the fascinating story behind the company, the design philosophy that separates Aarn Packs from traditional backpacking gear, and how innovation in load distribution can dramatically change the hiking experience.We also dive into the engineering behind their packs, the challenges of building niche outdoor gear, and why thoughtful design matters so much in the outdoor industry.Whether you’re a thru-hiker, gear nerd, or someone curious about the future of backpack design, this episode is packed with insight.🏔️ In this episode we cover🎒 Why most backpacks are poorly balanced⚖️ The philosophy behind Aarn’s balanced pack design🏔️ How load distribution affects hiking performance🧠 The engineering behind front balance pockets🌲 Why innovation in backpack design is so difficult📦 The realities of running a niche outdoor gear company🥾 What hikers get wrong when choosing backpacksDaniel also shares why comfort, efficiency, and body mechanics are often overlooked in backpack design — and how Aarn Packs approaches gear differently.🌄 Connect with Aarn PacksWebsitehttps://www.aarnpacks.comInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/aarnpacksFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/AarnPacksYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@aarnpacksofficial🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors — you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
| 3/11/26 | ![]() Durston Gear Creator Dan Durston | Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 22 | In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Dan Durston, founder of Durston Gear and the mind behind some of the most talked-about ultralight tents in the backpacking world.If you’ve spent time on trails like the Pacific Crest Trail or Appalachian Trail, chances are you’ve seen an X-Mid tent in the wild.But the story behind Durston Gear is just as fascinating as the gear itself.Dan shares how his obsession with ultralight backpacking gear started on hiking forums and long trails, eventually leading to the invention of the X-Mid tent design — an idea that first formed while hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. beyond-the-trailhead-podcast-da…We dive into the early days of the brand, licensing the design to a larger company, and the moment Dan had to remortgage his house to launch Durston Gear independently.This episode is packed with insights for hikers, gear nerds, and anyone curious about building a company in the outdoor industry.🏔️ In this episode we cover🥾 How the X-Mid tent idea started while hiking the PCT🎒 The evolution of ultralight backpacking gear🏕️ Designing tents that balance weight, simplicity, and durability📦 The risks of launching a gear brand💸 Remortgaging a house to fund the first Durston Gear product launch🌲 How community feedback shaped Durston Gear🧠 Advice for entrepreneurs creating products in the outdoor industryDan also shares stories from the trail and explains why simple design often wins over complicated gear.🌄 Connect with Durston GearWebsitehttps://durstongear.comInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/durstongearYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@durstongear🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors — you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
| 3/7/26 | ![]() Hilltop Packs Creator | Ben McMillen on Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 21 | In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Ben McMillen, founder of Hilltop Packs, one of the most recognizable custom gear companies in the ultralight backpacking world.Hilltop Packs is known for their one-of-a-kind custom printed food bags, stuff sacks, backpacks, and ultralight gear that hikers proudly carry on trails across the world.But the story behind the company is just as fascinating as the gear itself.Ben shares how a photography studio, a print shop, and a simple idea to customize backpacking gear turned into a thriving outdoor brand.We dive into the early days of Hilltop Packs, the explosive growth during COVID, and the huge risk Ben took when a Dyneema shortage threatened the entire company.🏔️ In this episode we cover🥾 How Hilltop Packs started in a basement🎨 The origin of custom printed backpacking gear📈 How COVID unexpectedly launched the brand forward🧵 The challenge of sewing and producing one-off custom gear📦 Why Hilltop focuses on small customizable items⚠️ The massive risk Ben took buying nearly $100k of Dyneema🧠 Lessons from running multiple businesses at once🌲 The mindset required to grow an outdoor brandIf you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a gear company from scratch or why so many hikers carry Hilltop gear — this episode is packed with insight.🌄 Connect with Hilltop PacksWebsitehttps://hilltoppacks.comInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/hilltoppacksYouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@hilltoppacks🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors — you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
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| 2/25/26 | ![]() Beyond 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 heading to a major trade show.This conversation is raw, real, and packed with insight for anyone building something in the outdoor industry.In this episode we cover:🥾 Why most freeze-dried meals miss the mark🔥 The true cost of sampling food at trade shows📦 What it means to lose your entire inventory for 8 months💸 Bootstrapping when everything is on the line🏭 USDA regulations, freeze-drying, and manufacturing reality🧠 The mindset required to survive as a small brand founder🎄 The “Christmas miracle” that saved Trail GoodsLuke doesn’t just talk about food — he talks about resilience, risk, and what it actually takes to build something from scratch.If you’ve ever considered launching a product-based business… this episode will hit home.🌄 Connect with Trail Goods CompanyWebsite: https://trailgoodscompany.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/trailgoodscompany🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.comFor those asking about safety gear we use outdoors — you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15. | — | ||||||
| 2/18/26 | ![]() Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 19 | Farm to Summit Creator/Owner Louise Barton | Guest: 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 from local farms🌱 Using up-cycled vegetables to reduce food waste📈 Growing slowly and sustainably instead of scaling too fast👩👧 Balancing entrepreneurship, motherhood, and the outdoors🥘 Why taste tests and quality control matter more than hype🏔️ How the outdoor community shapes their meals and missionFrom feeding thru-hikers and climbers to families and even diplomats abroad, Farm to Summit meals are showing up in some unexpected places — and the stories behind them are powerful. If you love backpacking, food, or founder stories, this episode is packed with insight and heart.🔗 Connect with Farm to Summit🌐 Website: https://www.farmtosummit.comBuy on REI https://app.rockporch.com/mlink/qIi4bkn5nv📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmtosummit📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/farmtosummit📍 Store Locator: https://www.farmtosummit.com🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com | — | ||||||
| 2/11/26 | ![]() Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 18 | Leichtmut Creator & Owner Jacob Muth | In 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 designed a zipper-free, waterproof system🧵 The trial-and-error of sewing and prototyping gear himself🌍 How a crisis and career pivot led to launching Leichtmut📦 Learning advertising, pricing, and scaling as a one-person brand🎒 Why ultralight hikers are told to ditch their camera — and why Jacob disagreesIf you’re a photographer, thru-hiker, or dreaming about building your own gear brand, this episode is packed with honest lessons and creative problem-solving. 🔗 Connect with Leichtmut🌐 Website: https://www.leichtmut.de📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leichtmut.gear/🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com | — | ||||||
| 2/4/26 | ![]() Beyond 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 episode goes deeper than gear.Gilad talks honestly about the romantic myth of entrepreneurship, the realities of forecasting, manufacturing, and MOQs, and why most people underestimate how hard it is to build a product company. His advice for new founders might surprise you: sometimes the best advice is “don’t do it” unless you’re ready for everything that comes after the idea.We also dive into:💧 How the Vecto changed water carry for hikers🏕️ The ultralight gear world and thru-hiker feedback loops📦 Kickstarter lessons and early manufacturing struggles🧠 Why scaling turns you into an employer, not a maker🌲 Gilad’s love for trails and the outdoor communityIf you’re a hiker, gear nerd, or founder thinking about starting a brand — this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom.🔗 Connect with Minimal Gear/Cnoc Outdoors🌐 Website: https://cnocoutdoors.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cnocoutdoors📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cnocoutdoors▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cnocoutdoors🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com | — | ||||||
| 1/28/26 | ![]() Beyond 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, manufacturing realities, testing limits, and the moments where one wrong decision could have sunk the entire company.This episode dives into:🤔 The quiet doubts and heavy decisions founders don’t talk about🏕️ How Outdoor Vitals designs and tests gear over years, not months💡 Why perfection doesn’t exist — and when to finally ship a product💸 The danger of “overnight success” and scaling too fast🧠 Lessons learned from 12 years of building, failing, and refining🌲 How Tayson keeps his love for the outdoors alive while running a businessIf you’re an outdoor enthusiast, gear nerd, or entrepreneur trying to build something meaningful — this episode is packed with clarity, perspective, and long-game thinking.🔗 Connect with Outdoor Vitals🌐 Website: https://alnk.to/cSL4LQW📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outdoorvitals▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OutdoorVitals📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OutdoorVitals🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com | — | ||||||
| 1/21/26 | ![]() Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 15 | Lisa-Jae Eggert - Founder of 3 Moms Organics / TickWise | In 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 and permethrin🧪 The intense EPA process required to prove TickWise works as well as DEET📦 Bootstrapping production from her basement to tens of thousands of bottles🧠 Why education and prevention matter more than profit❤️ What it means to truly build a mission-driven businessThis is not just a founder story — it’s a conversation about health, prevention, and protecting families, hikers, kids, and pets outdoors.If you spend time outside, this episode could change how you think about ticks forever.🔗 Connect with TickWise / 3 Moms Organics🛒 Shop: https://amzn.to/4r9URpf🌐 Website: https://www.3momsorganics.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/3momsorganics📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/3momsorganics🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@beyondthetrailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=be0cf2ba11a447de📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com | — | ||||||
| 1/14/26 | ![]() Beyond 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 conversation goes beyond food. Nora opens up about being a solo founder, balancing a full-time job, building thicker skin, learning to ask for help, and staying connected to the outdoors while growing a business. We also talk inclusivity in outdoor nutrition, why fueling shouldn’t feel intimidating, and how NEVE has unexpectedly helped people far beyond endurance sports.If you’re an athlete, founder, or someone standing at the trailhead of a big idea—this episode is for you.🔗 Connect with NEVE & Nora🌐 Website: https://eatneve.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eat_neve🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@eatneve🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com | — | ||||||
| 1/6/26 | ![]() Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 13 | GiantMouse Knives Co-Creator Jim Wirth | Guest: 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 moments of running a product brand — including production setbacks, supply-chain realities, and learning when to delay a launch in order to protect quality and trust. We talk everyday carry, why knives are more relevant than ever, the crossover between watches and knives, and how GiantMouse balances creativity with business discipline. Whether you’re into EDC gear, knives, design, or building a brand from the ground up, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and passion you don’t want to miss. 🔗 Connect with GiantMouse Knives 🌐 Website: https://www.giantmouse.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantmouseknives 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/giantmouseknives ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@giantmouseknives 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/giantmouse-knives 🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=be0cf2ba11a447de 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery 🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com | — | ||||||
| 12/23/25 | ![]() Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 12 | Tim Hunt | Inside the Mind of a Tent Designer at SlingFin | Guest: 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 conditions, not just specs 🧠 The design tradeoffs most people never think about 🧪 Prototyping, field testing, and learning from failure 🌬️ Why small structural changes can make or break a tent 🎒 How experience in the field directly shapes better gear If you’ve ever looked at a tent and wondered why it’s built that way — this episode pulls back the curtain. Whether you’re a gear nerd, designer, engineer, or just someone who sleeps outside a lot, this one is packed with insight. 🔗 Connect with SlingFin 🌐 Website: https://www.slingfin.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slingfin ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SlingFin 🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@beyondthetrailhead 🍎 Apple 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery 🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.comLet’s go beyond the trailhead. | — | ||||||
| 12/18/25 | ![]() Beyond 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, and burnout. This episode dives into: 🧵 What it’s really like being a one-man gear brand (with a little help from family) 🎒 Why Devin is intentionally not making backpacks 🧠 The thinking behind food bags, ditty bags, and modular organization ⚖️ Navigating trademark issues, scaling limits, and work–family balance 💡 Why Devin has 6–7 new product ideas but refuses to rush them 🤝 How genuine relationships (not transactions) shape long-term success If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of cottage gear brands — or dreamed about building something of your own — this episode is honest, grounded, and incredibly relatable. 🔗 Connect with Backcountry Exposure 🌐 Website: https://backcountryexposure.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backcountryexposure ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BackcountryExposure 🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery 🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com • SUBSCRIBE 🔔 for more gear creators & outdoor founders Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead. | — | ||||||
| 12/18/25 | ![]() Beyond 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 of sourcing materials and building a product pipeline as a solo founder 💡 The unexpected lessons learned while launching a gear company from nothing 🌄 The FKT mindset — and how it shapes his design philosophy Whether you’re a thru-hiker, trail runner, gear nerd, or someone who has broken way too many sunglasses on trail — this story is going to hit home. 🔗 Connect with FKT Gear 🌐 Website — https://fktgear.com 📸 Instagram — https://instagram.com/fktgear 📘 Facebook — https://facebook.com/fktgear 🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery 🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com SUBSCRIBE for more creators, innovators & outdoor entrepreneurs Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead. #BeyondTheTrailhead #FKTGear #TrailSunglasses #OutdoorGear #UltralightGear #BackpackingGear #TrailRunningGear #GearInnovation #Podcast | — | ||||||
| 12/18/25 | ![]() Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Ep. 9 | Shawn Willette | CEO & Creator of the AntiMatter Chair | In 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 always comes with risk If you love stories of grit, clever engineering, and the passion behind outdoor gear creation, this is an episode you won’t forget. 🔗 Connect with No Matter / AntiMatter Chair 🌐 Website: http://www.nomatterproducts.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomatterproducts 🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead • SUBSCRIBE for more stories from outdoor creators, innovators & trail legends Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead. #BeyondTheTrailhead #AntiMatterChair #NoMatterGear #UltralightGear #Backpacking #OutdoorInnovation #GearDesign #EntrepreneurStory #HikingGear #Podcast | — | ||||||
| 12/18/25 | ![]() Beyond 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 community 🏕️ The outdoor industry lessons no one talks about 🔥 Derek’s advice for creators, builders, and anyone chasing their own idea If you love gear, innovation, or stories of entrepreneurs who push the outdoor industry forward — this episode is for you. 🌐 Connect with Haven Tents & Derek Tillotson Website: https://haventents.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haventents TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haventents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/haventents YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HavenTents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haven-tents • SUBSCRIBE for more episodes with outdoor creators, innovators & adventurers Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead. #BeyondTheTrailhead #HavenTents #CampingGear #OutdoorInnovation #HammockCamping #BackpackingSleepSystem #Podcast | — | ||||||
| 12/18/25 | ![]() Beyond 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 to expect, and how to keep calm when things go sideways. 🎧 Listen to more Beyond the Trailhead episodes: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead 📸 Follow Natalie’s baking & adventure journey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classicnb_jadore_manger 🎙️ Follow Craig & Unchong Obrist: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery Website: https://obristimagery.com ✅ • Share this with your trail-partner or gear-head friend Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead! | — | ||||||
| 12/18/25 | ![]() Beyond 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 of invention, the lessons he’s learned building products that people truly love, and what it means to turn frustration into innovation. Whether you’re a hiker, cyclist, or just someone who’s ever hated sticky feet — this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and a ton of inspiration from a mind that never stops creating. 🔗 Connect with Hollow Socks 🌐 Website: https://www.hollowsocks.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollowsocks 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hollowsocks 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hollow-socks ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HollowSocks ✅ • Share this with your trail-partner or gearhead friend Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead! #BeyondTheTrailhead #HollowSocks #OutdoorInnovation #GearTalk #Podcast | — | ||||||
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