Gear Abby: An Outdoor Advice Column For Your Ears

36 episodios

Creepy Stairs In The Woods & Chicago Crime Scene Bear!
08/05/2026 | 35 min
Are those random stairs in the forest actually haunted or just leftovers from long-forgotten buildings?
This week on Gear Abby, we dig into the eerie legend of “stairs in the woods,” exploring where the spooky stories came from and why your brain reacts so strongly when you see them on trail.
Next, one ski-trip debate gets settled once and for all: does alcohol really hit harder at altitude? Shawnté breaks down the science behind blood alcohol levels, dehydration, and why mountain drinking can feel rougher than expected.
Finally, a first-time backpacker worries that deodorant, sunscreen, and moisturizer might attract bears. Gear Abby explains what really draws bears in and why you can probably keep your face lotion without becoming bear bait.
Got a question (or a spooky trail story) for Gear Abby?
Send it to [email protected]... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.
Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.
The Deadliest Parks, The Most Stubborn Hikers & Wearing A Rain Skirt!
01/05/2026 | 42 min
What’s the deadliest national park in the United States?
This week on Gear Abby, we kick things off with a dark-but-fascinating question about where people are most at risk in our national parks and why the answer might surprise you.
Next, a listener needs help convincing her stubborn boyfriend to use trekking poles on a Grand Canyon hike even though his knees suggest he absolutely should.
Finally, Shawnté's favorite segment, What's In My Pack?! returns! Shawnté makes the case for one of the weirdest but most versatile pieces of gear around: the rain skirt.
Got a question for Gear Abby?
Send it to [email protected]—because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.
Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.
GoPro Frenemies? The Crimson Avenger! & In Search Of Outdoor Confidence
24/04/2026 | 39 min
What do you do when your favorite adventure buddy suddenly turns every outing into a full-on GoPro production? This week, Gear Abby helps a listener figure out how to set boundaries when social media starts getting in the way of real-life fun.
Next, we tackle a question many people are too embarrassed to ask: how do you handle your period on a backpacking trip? Shawnté breaks down practical tips, myth-busting (no, bears aren’t hunting you), and how to stay comfortable and confident on trail.
Finally, turning 50 sparks a big adventure goal: trying new outdoor group activities despite a lifetime of anxiety about being judged. With help from a special guest, we talk about building confidence, finding the right group, and why it’s never too late to try something new.
Got a question for Gear Abby? Send it to [email protected]—because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.
Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC
Trail Registers, Trail Nicknames & Ropes Gone Bad
17/04/2026 | 40 min
Ever wondered where those summit trail registers actually come from and where they go when they disappear? This week, Gear Abby digs into the surprising history behind those iconic peak notebooks.
Next, a listener questions whether spouses should be allowed to assign trail names and whether there’s an official appeal process when you get stuck with a mediocre nickname.
Finally, things get serious (well as serious as Gear Abby gets anyway): what should you do if your climbing partner wants to use a rope that looks worn out? Shawnté breaks down how to inspect climbing ropes, when to retire them, and why trusting your gut matters when safety is on the line.
Got a question for Gear Abby? Send it to [email protected]... because there are no dumb questions, just smart advice.
Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.
Outdoor Dating Red Flags & Ski Patrol Dreams
09/04/2026 | 52 min
Is flying across the country for adventure worth the climate impact—or should you stay closer to home? This week, Gear Abby tackles a big question about balancing outdoor travel dreams with environmental responsibility.
Then things get spicy: what outdoor gear or trends instantly give you the ick on a hiking date? Shawnté and Colin weigh in with their personal red flags and invite listeners to send in theirs.
Finally, thinking about becoming a ski patroller? A special guest joins the show to break down what it really takes to get started, what skills you’ll need, and whether the job is worth the commitment.
Got a question for Gear Abby? Send it to deargearabbymail.com.
Thanks for listening! Gear Abby is a production of Rock Fight, LLC.

Más podcasts de Aventuras en la naturaleza

Podcasts a la moda de Aventuras en la naturaleza

Acerca de Gear Abby: An Outdoor Advice Column For Your Ears

Gear Abby: Outdoor Advice Without the BS! Sick of outdoor podcasts that gate keep, worship influencer gear lists, or make you feel like you don’t belong? Yeah, we do too. That’s why Gear Abby exists. With Gear Abby you won't get an ounce of shame or gear snobbery. It's just unfiltered advice, honest conversations, and the occasional 'WTF' moment in the wild. Hosted by outdoor journalist and adventure junkie Shawnté Salabert, this show answers the real questions you’re too embarrassed to ask out loud. From weird gear issues and trip prep anxiety to calling out elitist nonsense in outdoor culture. Shawnté approaches your burning outdoor questions with that sort of loving big sister vibe. And if Shawnté doesn’t have the answer? She’ll drag in someone who does. Whether you hike, paddle, run, or just want to feel less weird in REI - Gear Abby’s your new outdoor bestie. Gear Abby. Because there are no dumb questions. Just smart advice.

Sitio web del podcast

Aventuras en la naturaleza Cultura y sociedad Deportes Diarios personales Lugares y viajes Ocio Pasatiempos