Podcast Episodes
Back to SearchEpisode 137 | The Risk Control Continuum
Season 1 Episode 137
In this episode, we introduce the Risk Control Continuum - a practical, evidence-based framework for managing risk in the backcountry. He explores how environmental, psychosocial, and operational haz…
Published on 12 hours ago
Episode 136 | Fringe Season Layering
Season 1 Episode 136
What is the difference in layering strategy from summertime to the fall-winter transition? In this episode, Ryan Jordan discusses how the environment of the fringe season (colder temperatures and sto…
Published on 2 weeks ago
Episode 135 | Field Notes - The Metabolic Cost of Bushwhacking
Season 1 Episode 135
In the Field Notes episode, we explore why bushwhacking miles aren't just harder but metabolically different. The Metabolic Energy Mile (MEM) framework breaks this down into three types of work: brus…
Published on 3 weeks ago
Episode 134 | Sleep Quality in the Backcountry
Season 1 Episode 134
Backcountry sleep is fragile, and when it breaks down, recovery, judgment, and safety are at risk. In this episode, we examine the forces that fragment rest, including altitude, stress, weather, inju…
Published on 4 weeks ago
Episode 133 | Human Waste Management
Season 1 Episode 133
In this episode, Ryan Jordan examines why traditional cathole practices often fail in alpine, desert, and high-use environments. Drawing on scientific research, policy gaps, and evolving Leave No Tra…
Published on 1 month, 2 weeks ago
Episode 132 | Satellite Messenger Weather Forecasts
Season 1 Episode 132
Today's episode of the Backpacking Light Podcast is sponsored by Vaer Watches. A Vaer watch is an expedition-worthy, made in the USA, reliable, rugged, and beautiful timepiece that earns its place on…
Published on 2 months ago
Episode 131 | Ultralight First Aid Kit Strategies
Season 1 Episode 131
In this episode, we discuss how to design scalable, evidence-informed first aid kits for backcountry travel. Grounded in the principles of context, consequence, and capability, he outlines three modu…
Published on 2 months, 2 weeks ago
Episode 130 | Bivy Sack Camping
Season 1 Episode 130
In this episode, Ryan shares his approach to bivy sack camping above treeline using a waterproof-breathable system built for stealth, weather protection, and minimal impact. He explains why tents are…
Published on 2 months, 4 weeks ago
Episode 129 | Field Notes - The Limits of Wilderness Minimalism
Season 1 Episode 129
In this Field Notes episode, Ryan Jordan explores what happens when wilderness minimalism reaches its limits. Through real-world examples and the lenses of physiology, psychology, and Stoic philosoph…
Published on 3 months ago
Episode 128 | The Metabolic Cost of Carrying a Backpack
Season 1 Episode 128
What does it really cost your body to carry a backpack in the backcountry? In this episode, we explore the science behind the metabolic demands of load carriage - how pack weight, load distribution, …
Published on 3 months, 3 weeks ago