In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio, presented by The Trek brought to you by LMNT, we’re joined by Jeff Oliver, better known on trail and online as IBTAT. In addition to building a large following on YouTube and Instagram, IBTAT will be a familiar voice to long-time Backpacker Radio listeners, as he was part of our first season of Trail Correspondents. We dive into IBTAT’s story, including his journey to 12 years of sobriety — going from drinking two fifths of liquor a day to cutting alcohol cold turkey overnight, and the dangerous side effects that followed. We also cover his more than 11,000 miles of trekking over the past seven years, including hikes of the Triple Crown trails, the Scottish National Trail, the C&O Canal Towpath, and Sweden’s Kungsleden Trail. Lastly, being a talented photographer and videographer, IBTAT shares expert advice on choosing the right camera and capturing quality photos and video during your hikes.

Sassafras, Double Dip and I wrap the show with a call for this year’s AT thru-hikers to take the 2025 Appalachian Trail Survey, we opine on what the AT will look like in 2035 (and look back at how it’s changed over the past decade), we find the precise point at which a walk becomes a hike, Sass and Katie share how they got started in the Outdoor Industry (providing advice and inspiration for those who want to follow in their tracks), and we do the Triple Crown of cooking tips and hacks.

LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.
Gossamer Gear: Use code "LT520" for 20% off LT5 Trekking Poles at gossamergear.com.
Ombraz: Use code “BACKPACKER30” for $30 off at ombraz.com/discount/backpacker30.

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Interview with Jeff “IBTAT” Oliver

Time stamps & Questions

00:06:00 - Reminders: Apply to blog for the Trek, take the 2025 AT Thru-Hiker survey, and listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon!

00:08:05 - Introducing IBTAT

00:11:15 - When did you start partying?

00:12:25 - Discussion about getting sober

00:16:35 - What was your outdoors experience prior to the AT?

00:19:15 - When did you start videography and photography?

00:22:15 - Are there differences in your audience across different mediums?

00:25:00 - At what point did thru-hiking click for you?

00:27:18 - How did you take to the AT community?

00:29:09 - How was hiking the AT with your dog?

00:31:32 - Any standout stories from the AT?

00:33:16 - When did you decide to get on the PCT?

00:34:51 - What’s the most common dinner you eat on trail?

00:36:55 How was the PCT in a high snow year?

00:46:45 - Have you seen a culture change on the PCT?

00:49:05 - Tell us about the Art Loeb Trail

00:51:35 - What was your experience on the CDT?

00:55:05 - What was the most emotional moment you’ve captured on video on trail?

00:57:35 - How has your videography style changed over time?

00:59:25 - Tell us more about the crowds you’ve seen on the PCT this year

01:00:35 - Tell us about the Scottish National Trail

01:04:17 - What’s been your favorite trail to photograph versus hike?

01:07:35 - Walk us through camera lenses for new photographers

01:12:35 - What’s in your photography kit?

01:15:25 - Tell us about the C&O Canal Towpath

01:16:52 - Tell us about the Kungsleden Trail

01:21:31 - What’s the next international trail on your bucket list?

01:22:22 - How do you like repeating the PCT?

01:23:38 - Stay Salty Question: What’s your hottest take in the world of backpacking?

Segments

Trek Propaganda:

What Will the Appalachian Trail Look Like in 2035? by Katie Jackson
The Day I finished the Appalachian Trail (ECT 210) by Steve Hoekwater

QOTD: When does a walk become a hike?

Advice Thing of the Week

Triple Crown of cooking tips / hacks

Mail Bag

5 Star Review

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Jeff Oliver aka IBTAT on Sober Triple Crowning, The Scottish National Trail, and Kungsleden Trail (BPR #323)

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