Uploaded February 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago

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From Episode 305: youtube.com/live/s22iPbJsxws?si=fCrPDBQ6OwNUErke
John and Jeremiah break down five real companies that sponsor thru-hikers—and what “sponsorship” actually means in the backpacking world.

We talk about who gets sponsored, what companies are really looking for, and the difference between free gear, discounts, affiliate deals, and actual financial support. If you’re dreaming about hiking the AT, PCT, or CDT and wondering how people afford months on trail, this episode gives you the honest breakdown—no influencer fantasy required.