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Artwork for Backpacking & Blisters: A Hiking, Backpacking, and Adventure Show

Backpacking & Blisters: A Hiking, Backpacking, and Adventure Show

Carl Mandrioli, Bleav
Backpacking
Hiking
Ultralight Backpacking
Backpacking Gear
Camping Gear
Outdoor Adventure
Camping
Outdoor Gear
Hiking Gear
Outdoor Adventures
Appalachian Trail
Enlightened Equipment
Ultralight Gear
Adventure
Youtube
Outdoor Safety
Backpacking Essentials
Bigfoot
Yosemite
Pacific Crest Trail

Backpacking and hiking tips and tales...with a sense of humor. This is your one-stop show for backpacking, hiking and adventure entertainment. From backpacking gear to the trail situations you will encounter to popular guests, this podcast will deliver. Derek and Carl will hit on all of the backpacking and hiking topics you want with decades of good (and horrendous) experience.

PublishesTwice weeklyEpisodes441Founded9 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
SportsComedy

Listen to this Podcast

Artwork for Backpacking & Blisters: A Hiking, Backpacking, and Adventure Show

Latest Episodes

If you’ve heard all of the ultralight backpacking tips out there, then this episode is for you! We’ve got 10 super duper extra ultralight hacks that will shave pounds off of your pack. Brad ‘Crow’ Felton joins me in discussing ideas you’ve simply nev... more

Justin Outdoors joins the show to discuss how to upgrade a gear setup and shave weight with $150. Just how much weight can you reduce with $150 these days? Let’s find out from the best gear expert going.

Some of the topics discussed in this week’s e... more

How do you go from waking up to on the trail in 30 minutes? Carl will tell you how. Why could this be a bad idea? Jesse will tell you that too. Who’s morning routine is better? And Carl and Jesse also debate whether Outdoor Vitals is a premium brand ... more

Devin, from Backcountry Exposure, joins the show to discuss 10 new pieces of 2026 backpacking gear including: sleeping bags, a sleeping pad, a backpack, tents, a stove, etc. Which ones are worth the investment? Which ones might end up on the clearanc... more

YouTube

Key Facts

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Contact Information
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Number of Listeners
Find out how many people listen to this podcast per episode and each month.

Recent Guests

Brad Crow Felton
Backpacking content creator and ultralight enthusiast
Independent content creator / YouTube channel
Episode: 10 Ways to Go Super Duper Extra Ultralight Backpacking w/ Brad 'Crow' Felton
Devin Ashby
Gear reviewer from Backcountry Exposure
Backcountry Exposure
Episode: 2026 *NEW* Backpacking Gear You Should Check Out! with DEVIN ASHBY
Jesse Mantai
A man from a province where the average citizen's IQ is only 85
Episode: Is Your BACKPACKING IQ Over 100? Find Out Now!
Jon Conti
Premier backpacking adventurer, gear expert
Episode: JON CONTI: Top Luxury Items for the LAZY Backpacker
Coach Marion Outdoors
Owner of Marion Outdoors, gear store owner
Marion Outdoors
Episode: 5 Pro Tips Gear Stores Tell OVERLOADED Backpackers with COACH Marion Outdoors (Bonus Thursday!)
Glen Van Peski
Owner of Gossamer Gear, engineer and ultralight backpacker
Gossamer Gear
Episode: GLEN VAN PESKI: Gossamer Gear Owner's 3 Unorthodox Ultralight Strategies
Jeff Pelletier
Trail runner, fastpacker, and documentary filmmaker
Jeff Pelletier (self-described)
Episode: JEFF PELLETIER: Controversial Gear Decisions For The Last Great Adventure (Throwback Thursday)
Chris Cage
Owner of Greenbelly Foods; host of Greenbelly YouTube channel
Greenbelly Foods
Episode: 6 Gear Trends That Are DISRUPTING Hiking This Year with CHRIS CAGE (Bonus Thursday)
Nick Darwin-Rickstraw
Top multi-sport adventurer, storyteller, and beard wearer
Darwin on the Trail / Evolved Supply Co.
Episode: DARWIN: Watch Out! 3 Gear FAILURES You Need to Know!

Hosts

Derek Somerville
Co-host with extensive knowledge of hiking and backpacking, known for his humorous storytelling and personal anecdotes.
Carl Mandrioli
Co-host who brings a comedic flair to discussions about outdoor adventures, gear, and hiking culture.
Jesse Mantai
Co-host and experienced backpacker who contributes expert knowledge on backpacking techniques and gear.

Reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars from 475 ratings
  • This is an awesome podcast with great banter between the cohosts. If you are looking to learn how to be successful, just follow Carl's advice, or just do the opposite of what Derek recommends. Carl claims to not be detail oriented, but he cross-examines Derek like an experienced DA on Law and Order. Derek is a good sport and takes it all with a laugh. The constant ribbing and dead-pan humor has me laughing out loud, and my kids love them. Subscribe now.

    Podcast Addict
    5
    Jack
    a month ago
  • JesusLovesYou&MadeFootball

    This podcast, which is kind of a Godcast, is awesome. Your life will change for the better by listening. Also, if YOU can survive Derek’s trivia, you will be able to take on anything this world throws at you.

    Plus, this Godcast gets better with every episode and as the years roll onward!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Eyes on Jesus
    United States2 months ago
  • Great Content

    I enjoy the show and I love the fact that it starts off with a Bible verse. Get out and enjoy His creation!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    AnonymousReviewerToday
    United States2 months ago
  • Good job Mr mandrioli

    You should teach us about this is class

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Jack Mankamyer
    United States2 months ago
  • Great content!

    I recent found this podcast and I have been binge listening. Highly entertaining and the topics cover a wide variety, which eliminates listening boredom. Derek cracks me up. His quick responses to Carl and wit is top notch!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    AP AP 2022
    United States3 months ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Listeners appreciate the blend of humor and practical advice offered throughout the episodes.
Some audience members express discomfort with religious references made at the start of episodes, preferring more outdoor-focused content.
Positive feedback highlights the diversity of guests who add valuable insights for budding and experienced hikers alike.
Many enjoy the chemistry between the hosts and their engaging storytelling style.

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Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

10 Ways to Go Super Duper Extra Ultralight Backpacking w/ Brad 'Crow' Felton
Q: How do you view the balance between humor and practicality in these tips?
The hosts and guest emphasize the satire, gently signaling that these ideas aren't serious recommendations but a playful exploration of ultralight concepts.
10 Ways to Go Super Duper Extra Ultralight Backpacking w/ Brad 'Crow' Felton
Q: What motivates the ultralight strategies you're sharing today?
The guest explains that the tips are intentionally outrageous and satirical, meant to entertain while showcasing creative, sometimes impractical, ways people think about weight reduction on trips.
Why You SLEEP LIKE TRASH in the Backcountry (and How to Fix It!) with Mowser (Bonus Thursday)
Q: What is your stance on bear safety and food storage as it relates to sleep?
While wildlife is a real concern, proper food storage and tent discipline can minimize nighttime disturbances, with practical tips like keeping food canisters and proper zipping to prevent wildlife intrusion.
Why You SLEEP LIKE TRASH in the Backcountry (and How to Fix It!) with Mowser (Bonus Thursday)
Q: What upcoming product or app should listeners be aware of?
Peakbound.app, a full planning app for hikes that integrates maps, itineraries, GPX files, gear lists, and group collaboration, with a waitlist now open.
Why You SLEEP LIKE TRASH in the Backcountry (and How to Fix It!) with Mowser (Bonus Thursday)
Q: Can you describe the role of the pillow in a backcountry sleep system?
A good pillow setup involves combining an inflatable pillow, a down topper, and a secure attachment to the quilt so it stays in place all night and feels like home.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

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Frequently Asked Questions About This Podcast

What is This Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This podcast provides an engaging blend of humor and insights focused on backpacking, hiking, and outdoor adventures. The hosts share personal anecdotes, practical tips, and lively discussions about gear, trail etiquette, and popular destinations, making it appealing for both novice and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. Notable for its lighthearted approach, the show features captivating guests from the outdoor community, which adds valuable perspectives and expertise to each episode.

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this podcast launched 9 years ago and published 441 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on this podcast?

Recent guests on this podcast include:

1. Brad Crow Felton
2. Devin Ashby
3. Jesse Mantai
4. Jon Conti
5. Coach Marion Outdoors
6. Glen Van Peski
7. Jeff Pelletier
8. Chris Cage

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