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? Resources & Links Catmando's Instagram: Catmando2019 PCT 2021 Update: Now Hiking To Benefit Old Glory Service Dogs Paws Of War (Florida Chapter) Catmando On The Trek Fresh Ground Instagram: freshgroundleapfrogcafe Mighty Blue on the Appalachian Trail Hiking Radio Network Instagram: hikingradionetwork Old Man and the PCT If you loved this episode and our thru-hiker spotlights, like, subscribe, rate & review, and share! Connect With Us / Join The THRU-r Community: THRU-r Website THRU-r Instagram THRU-r Facebook THRU-r Youtube Cheer's YouTube Cheer's Instagram Episode Music: "Communicator" by Reed Mathis

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.