Trailblazing Texas Podcast

Well... here's a podcast first.

Episode 1 with Luke, owner of Trail Goods Co., is officially dropping from 35,000 feet.

When life gives you the opportunity for a first, you take it! Who says you can't launch a podcast while cruising above the clouds?

If you're looking for a great conversation about backpacking, incredible trail meals, and why supporting small cottage brands matters, give it a listen.

Now the real question... does releasing an episode at 35,000 feet count as the highest-elevation podcast drop?

The countdown to July 16th continues!

When we buy from a cottage brand, we usually only see the finished product.
What we don't see are the late nights, the mistakes, and the problem-solving that happen behind the scenes.

In this clip, Luke, owner of Trail Goods Company, shares a story about discovering an expensive packaging mistake that could have been devastating for a small business.

His response?

Don't dwell on the mistake. Find the solution.
It's a reminder that running a cottage brand isn't about being perfect—it's about being resilient. Every challenge is another opportunity to learn, adapt, and keep moving forward.

That's one of the reasons I love highlighting these companies. Behind every meal, every piece of gear, and every logo is someone willing to bet on themselves and keep pushing through the setbacks.

Part 1 drops July 16th!

Follow the Trailblazing Texas Podcast so you don't miss this conversation and the incredible story behind Trail Goods Company.

The countdown to July 16th continues...

One of the things that really stuck with me during my conversation with Luke, owner of Trail Goods Company, was this unexpected reality of running a cottage brand.

The irony?

The more successful your outdoor business becomes, the less time you actually get to spend outdoors.

Instead of weekends on the trail, it's trade shows, product development, shipping orders, customer support, and countless hours behind the scenes, all to build something that helps the rest of us enjoy our adventures.

It's a side of the outdoor industry that most of us never see, and it's one of the reasons I'm so passionate about shining a light on the people behind these cottage brands. They're not just making gear or meals, they're making sacrifices to support the community they love.

Part 1 drops July 16th!
Be sure to follow the Trailblazing Texas Podcast so you don't miss this incredible conversation with Luke and the story behind Trail Goods Company.

The countdown to July 16th continues!

"Eat Like You Earned It."

That simple phrase says everything about the backpacking experience.

In this sneak peek from my conversation with Luke, owner of Trail Goods Company, we talk about why the best meals aren't always served in fancy restaurants. Sometimes they're eaten from a Mylar bag beside a river, on a windswept mountain summit, or around a campfire with friends after a long day on the trail.

The places we go, the people we share them with, and the memories we create are what make those meals unforgettable.

Join us on July 16th as we dive into pt 1 of the story behind Trail Goods Company, great trail food, and the passion that fuels one of the outdoor community's incredible cottage brands.

Follow the Trailblazing Texas Podcast so you don't miss the drop!

The countdown to July 16th continues... and yes, backpacking can get messy!

Let's be honest... no one talks about the glamorous side of backpacking because... there isn't one.

In this hilarious clip from my conversation with Luke, owner of Trail Goods Company, we swap one of those unforgettable trail stories that every backpacker can appreciate. Sometimes the biggest adventure isn't reaching the summit... it's answering nature's call above treeline.

If you've spent enough time on the trail, you've probably had one of those "Well... this isn't how I pictured today going!" moments.

Join us on July 16th for Part 1 of an episode full of laughs, honest conversations, great backpacking stories, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the outdoor community's favorite cottage brands.
What's the funniest thing that's happened to you while backpacking? (Keep it... mostly PG! )

Follow the Trailblazing Texas Podcast so you don't miss the drop!

The countdown to July 16th has officially begun!

In this sneak peek from Part 1 of my conversation with Luke, owner of Trail Goods Company, we step away from dehydrated meals and talk about something even more important, the mindset it takes to build a small business.

Luke shares a powerful reminder that success isn't just measured by profits. It's about showing up, continuing to fight through the hard days, and honoring the people who believe in you and support your journey.

It's an honest conversation about perseverance, community, and why so many of us choose to support cottage brands. Behind every product is a person taking a risk, chasing a dream, and refusing to quit.

Follow the Trailblazing Texas Podcast so you don't miss Part 1 dropping on July 16th!

In Part 2 of my conversation with Wanda, we move beyond the miles and into the mindset that has kept her exploring, growing, and embracing adventure through every season of life.

We talk about overcoming fear, working through self-doubt, knowing when to push forward and when turning back is the smartest decision. Wanda shares how she prepares for each trip, the hikes that have left the biggest mark on her life, and why some of the quietest miles often become the most meaningful.

This episode is also packed with encouragement for anyone who's ever thought, "Maybe I'm too old," or "Maybe I can't do this." Wanda offers honest advice for women considering backpacking, talks about the importance of community, and shares the habits that have helped her stay active for years.

Most of all, we explore what the trail has taught her about aging, resilience, and living with purpose. Her story is a reminder that adventure doesn't have an expiration date, it simply evolves with us.

If you've ever needed a little inspiration to take that first step, chase a new goal, or believe you're capable of more than you think, this conversation is for you.

Join us for Part 2 with Wanda, and discover why the greatest journeys aren't measured by miles, they're measured by the person you become along the way.

Coming Soon on the Trailblazing Texas Podcast!

The next stop on our Texas adventure takes us to Bastrop and Buescher State Parks, where I sit down with Interpretive Ranger Madalyn to explore two parks that have some incredible stories to tell.

We talk about the history, wildlife, unique ecosystems, and what makes these neighboring parks such special places to hike, camp, and reconnect with nature. Whether you've visited before or they're still on your Texas hiking bucket list, there's something in this episode for everyone.

Make sure to follow the Trailblazing Texas Podcast so you don't miss the official drop date. You won't want to miss this conversation with Ranger Madalyn!

See you on the trail!