

Hiker Trash Radio
Doc, Bleav
Join Doc and his guests on Hiker Trash Radio, the outdoor adventure podcast that takes you on a myriad of trails. With interviews from thru hikers, skydivers, adventure athletes, big wall climbers, and more, each episode is packed with trail talk, gear tips, and hilarious misadventures. And if you thought the great outdoors was all sunshine and rainbows, think again! Tune in for tales of blistered feet, helicopter evacuations, and Type II Fun that will make you appreciate the comforts of home. Settle in and get ready to trade the city for the wilderness. It's time to embrace the suck!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 10, 2026 • 33min
Safety and Survival - Jeremy "Switch" Waters (Part I)
In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc chats with Jeremy 'Switch' Waters, an author, outdoor adventurer, and user-generated content (UGC) creator. Switch shares engaging stories and insights from his numerous adventures in the wilderness, particularly in the Cascade Range and the Wenatchee National Forest. He discusses essential gear, his most hiker-trash moments, and his approach to navigating the outdoors safely. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to understand the hiker trash in your life, this episode offers valuable wisdom and entertaining anecdotes. Don't miss Switch's trail hacks and survival tips that will enhance your next outdoor experience. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 9, 2026 • 10min
Tr(AI)l Talk with Rocket and Stump - The Bennington Triangle
Rocket and Stump dig into the chilling mysteries, environmental oddities, and enduring legends that haunt Vermont’s Glastenbury Wilderness. This episode unpacks the notorious disappearances, explores the area’s strange folklore, and examines scientific and supernatural theories swirling around the Bennington Triangle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 7, 2026 • 6min
The Logbook - The Unlikely Thru-Hiker by Derick "Mr. Fabulous" Lugo
In this inaugural episode of The Logbook, part of the Hiker Trash Radio series, Doc reviews 'The Unlikely Thru-Hiker' by Derick Lugo. Doc shares his thoughts on Lugo's inspiring journey along the Appalachian Trail, highlighting the author's transformation from a city dweller with no hiking experience to a renowned thru-hiker. With humor, authenticity, and a fresh perspective, Lugo's story demonstrates that the trail is for everyone. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 5, 2026 • 33min
Left to My Own Devices - Mary "Newfound" Leavines (Part II)
In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Mary 'Newfound' Leavines, a thru hiker, memoir author, and storyteller. Newfound discusses her challenging yet transformative journey on the Appalachian Trail following her divorce, her experiences with hiking communities, and the pros and cons of running a hostel. She also shares her current pursuits in grad school and writing, and her plans for future hiking adventures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 5, 2026 • 41min
Left to My Own Devices - Mary "Newfound" Leavines (Part I)
In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc sits down with thru hiker, author, and storyteller Mary 'Newfound' Leavines. Newfound shares her journey from growing up in South Louisiana to embracing the world of through hiking. She discusses her memorable experiences on the Appalachian Trail, her favorite gear, including the controversial umbrella, and recounts her most hiker trash moments, including public rinses under splash pads and group clothing swaps to stave off hypothermia. Newfound also enlightens listeners with valuable trail wisdom, her trail name's origin, and the allure of thru hiking that keeps her coming back for more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 3, 2026 • 33min
It Feels Like a Hug - Sarah "Mellow" Berkeley (Part II)
In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Sarah 'Mellow' Berkeley, the owner and founder of Symbiosis Gear. Mellow shares her experiences through hiking on various trails, including the Long Trail and the PCT, and how these adventures inspired her to create gear specifically designed for women. She discusses the intricacies of hiking gear, recounts personal tales from her time on the trails, provides valuable advice for potential thru hikers, and explains the challenges and joys of building a business that caters to female hikers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 3, 2026 • 38min
It Feels Like a Hug - Sarah "Mellow" Berkeley (Part I)
In this episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc interviews Sarah 'Mellow' Berkeley, an experienced thru hiker and the owner and founder of Symbiosis Gear. Mellow shares her diverse travel experiences, insights into ultralight backpacking, and her journey in creating women-specific outdoor gear. She also discusses the challenges and rewards of thru-hiking, the vibrant hiking community, and her personal connection to nature. Tune in for Mellow's stories from the trail, her best and worst gear decisions, and her contributions to the hiking community through her innovative backpack designs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 2, 2026 • 9min
Tr(AI)l Talk with Rocket and Stump - The Curse of the Unfinished Hike
Rocket and Stump dive into the psychology of quitting a thru-hike, exploring the emotional fallout, the science of unfinished business, and how hikers seek redemption after being forced off trail. With dramatic trail stories and actionable insights, this episode uncovers why some journeys haunt us—and how some hikers find the courage to return. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 1, 2026 • 37sec
Hiker Trash Radio Trailer
New Year, New HTR Trailer! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 31, 2025 • 10min
Bonus Episode: Leonardo and His Paintings
In this bonus episode of Hiker Trash Radio, host Doc delves into the life and groundbreaking races of Gary Cantrell, also known as Lazarus Lake or Laz. Known for creating some of the toughest endurance races in the world, Laz's events, such as the Barkley Marathons, Big's Backyard Ultra, and the Last Annual Vol State 500K, push participants to their physical and mental limits. This episode highlights Laz's unique philosophy, his precision in race design, and the cultural impact of his races on the ultra-running community. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.


