Advanced Wilderness Life Support (AWLS)

In this podcast we explore the hidden hazards of hiking through spring and summer snow. As the mountains begin to thaw, trails once buried in winter snow reveal a new set of challenges—soft snowfields, collapsing crusts, and the dreaded posthole. In this episode, we dive into what really happens beneath your boots during shoulder season hikes, why postholing can be more than just annoying, and how...

Strap on your pack and join us for Health in Every Step where we talk about the  health benefits and potential pitfalls of rucking in the wilderness. Whether you’re a seasoned weight-walker or just curious about adding a weighted backpack to your fitness routine, we explore how rucking impacts your body, mind, and performance. We break down the science and strategies behind this simple but powerfu...

Welcome to “Enhancement or Harm?” where we look into the world of performance-enhancing drugs,  We’ll explore the medical science behind these substances: how they work, what they do to the body, and the very real risks they pose — not just to elite athletes, but to everyday people chasing an edge. Whether it’s the pressure to win, the allure of strength, or the promise of speed, the use of these...

In this podcast, we look into the real-life challenges of recognizing and managing heart emergencies in remote environments.  Out here, symptoms don’t wait, and time is not on your side. A heart attack in the backcountry isn’t just a medical emergency — it’s a logistical one. Rapid evacuation can mean the difference between life and death, but it starts with knowing what to look for, how to act fa...

In this episode, we break down the key differences between physical (mineral) and chemical sunscreens—what they are, how they work, and which one might be right for you. You’ll learn about the advantages and disadvantages of each type, including how they perform on different skin types, how they feel, and their impact on both your health and the environment. We talk about the science behind how su...

In this episode, we dive beneath the surface of the water and explore how sunscreen can have devastating effects on coral reefs. Scientists have discovered that certain common ingredients are toxic to coral larvae and contribute to coral bleaching. We’ll  uncover the science behind the issue, the surprising scale of the impact, and what you can do to protect both your skin and the ocean. Join us a...

Think that warm weather is all sunshine and serenity? Think again. Parasites in Paradise looks into the unseen world of warm-weather pathogens lurking in water, soil, and even your favorite vacation foods. From brain-eating amoebas like Naegleria fowleri, to stealthy intestinal invaders like Cyclospora, Cryptosporidium, and parasitic worms, we uncover the science, the symptoms, and the stories beh...

In this episode, Dr. Matt Gunderson breaks down everything you need to know about measles—from how it spreads to the unmistakable symptoms that signal its arrival. With outbreaks making headlines in recent years, Dr. Gunderson explores why this highly contagious disease is making a comeback despite the availability of an effective vaccine. Whether you’re a parent, healthcare worker, or just someon...

In this episode, we jump into the incredible journey of Anna Hoffmann, who clipped into her first skis at just 2 years oldand never looked back. From snowy slopes to the grand stage of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, Anna’s path was anything but smooth. Battling through challenging injuries, breaking barriers as a female in a male-dominated sport, and navigating the relentless mental and physica...

In this episode, guest host Liv Sosnoski looks at the essentials of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in the wilderness setting. From understanding the autoimmune nature of the disease to explaining how environmental factors like temperature, altitude, and exertion impact blood sugar control, Liv breaks it all down. She covers practical tips on insulin dosing, glucose monitoring, and what to pack before hi...

Wild Swim is the story of wild swimming.  Explore the meidcine, science, and soul of swimming in open water—from serene lakes and secret rivers to icy seas and waterfall pools. Here are practical tips so that you can find meaning and joy beneath the surface. Whether you’re curious about chasing the endorphin rush, or just love the idea plunging into nature, The Wild Swim  brings you closer to the...

This is a podcast about the growing impact of wildfire smoke on the places we go to escape in the wilderness. As wildfires grow more frequent and intense, the haze they leave behind stretches far beyond the burn zone—affecting air quality, outdoor recreation, wildlife, and public health. Listen as Dr. Kathy Vidlock and Joe Dantin explore how wildfire smoke is changing the way we live, breathe, and...

Whether you’re a dedicated athlete, or just love staying active outdoors, Strained & Sprained is your go-to podcast for everything related to tendon health, injuries, and recovery. Dr. Kathy Vidlock looks at the science of tendons, exploring how they work, what causes them to break down, and the best ways to heal and prevent injuries—especially for those who love hiking, running, climbing, and...

In this episode, Liv Sosnoski, Andrew Long, Mack Strobel, and Chandler Morel, medical students from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in the United States will break down the Lone Star tick — one of the most aggressive and medically important ticks. From bacterial infections like Ehrlichiosis and Tularemia to Alpha-gal Syndrome, Bourbon virus, and even tick paralysis, this episode...

“Hormones in Motion” is a podcast dedicated to exploring how outdoor exercise can support those with hormone disorders like diabetes, thyroid conditions, PCOS, and overreaching issues. Listen as Dr. Kathy Vidlock looks at  real-life cases and science-backed strategies to help people with endocrine diseases move with confidence and thrive in the great outdoors. Whether you’re hiking, running, or ju...

Welcome to “Cold Front,” the podcast dedicated to the science of frostbite treatment. This show delves into the latest research and best practices for managing cold-induced injuries. From recognizing early-stage frostbite to proper rewarming techniques, we cover everything healthcare providers, outdoor enthusiasts, and first responders need to know,  Tune in to learn how to combat the cold, preven...

Welcome to Sole Support , the ultimate podcast for hikers, backpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to keep their feet happy on the trail!  Join us as we dive into everything you need to know about foot comfort, injury prevention, and performance-enhancing insoles. We’ll explore topics like arch support, blister prevention, custom orthotics, and how to choose the best insoles for different te...

What happens when the call of the wild meets the challenges of heart disease? Wild Hearts explores the intersection of wilderness adventure, chronic cardiovascular conditions, and extreme endurance sports, where science, survival, and human resilience collide. Listen as Dr. Kathy Vidlock explores the  real effects of strenuous exercise on heart health in endurance athletes, and those managing hear...

In this episode, Sarah Atwill Petelinsek sits down with Beverly Albert, an endurance athlete who attempted the Wasatch 100, one of the most grueling 100-mile trail races. But this isn’t just a story about the race—it’s about the pivotal moment of choosing to turn around. We often celebrate pushing forward at all costs, but what about the strength it takes to step back? Beverly shares her insights...

In Wild Vitals , we explore the essential skills needed to assess and monitor vital signs in the backcountry—where quick thinking can make all the difference. From checking pulse and respiration to recognizing signs of hypothermia, dehydration, and shock, this podcast equips outdoor adventurers with the knowledge they need to keep themselves and others safe in remote environments. Whether you’re a...

Welcome to Settle Down, the podcast where we dive deep into the science and impact of flocculation in water treatment. This podcast unpacks how flocculation works, its role in treating water, and how you can use it in the backcountry.  Join us as we explore insights, real-world applications, and the fascinating ways science helps turn murky water crystal clear. Stay tuned—because knowledge is the...

Dive into the adrenaline-fueled world of coasteering with Coastal Rush, the podcast that takes you along rugged shorelines, crashing waves, and daring cliff jumps. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the sport, join us for expert insights, medical issues, and safety tips on navigating the wild coast. Get ready to explore where land meets sea—one leap at a time!

Explore the power of nature and the human spirit in Wild Resilience , a podcast dedicated to adventurers navigating life with autoimmune diseases. Join us as we share inspiring stories, expert advice, and practical tips on how to safely embrace the outdoors while managing chronic illness. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or simply seeking solace in nature, this podcast is your guide to thriving in...

Explore the powerful connection between hiking and brain health. This podcast dives into how hiking can reduce the risk of dementia, and improve mental clarity. Join us for expert insights, new research data and practical tips to keep your mind sharp—one trail at a time.

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating intersection of brain health, dehydration, and wilderness medicine. Learn how dehydration impacts cognitive function, decision-making, and survival instincts, especially in outdoor and emergency situations. We’ll tell you how to recognize the signs of dehydration and treat it effectively in remote or challenging environments. Don’t miss this essential...