In this episode we welcome our first guest: AT thru-hiker J.C. Van Etten or “Catmando” - who has his sights set on the PCT in 2021. In our discussion we go over why the trail community is amazing, his "week-a-thon" to battle the Virginia Blues, and the "magical toilet paper roll" - among many other things! Catmando has great insight into thru-hiking, especially for the AT and is also continuing to hike to benefit a great cause called Paws Of War. Enjoy the episode!

Experienced Hiker Questions:

Do you have a trail name? How did you get it?
What drew you to long distance hiking?
What were your favorite and least favorite pieces of gear? Any changes for your future hikes?
What is your favorite and worst memory from trail?
Scariest moment on trail?
Where and what was your best town meal?
Favorite on-trail food?
What was the nicest thing someone did for you on trail or in town?
What was the greatest lesson you learned while hiking?
Do you have any advice for aspiring thru-hikers?