Homeless by Choice: Redefining My Why
12 September 2025

Homeless by Choice: Redefining My Why

Free Outside

About

In this soul-spilling solo episode, I get honest from a borrowed cabin (and even more borrowed fishing hat) about why I gave up my home, comforts, and stability to chase a 40+ day goal on the Appalachian Trail. This isn’t just about trying to set an FKT—this is about redefining why we go after anything in life. I break down what it means to pursue something uncertain, unplug from the chaos, and find the rawest form of purpose in a world drowning in notifications, optics, and comparison traps.


From unexpected homelessness to deep reflections on fear, failure, self-worth, and the primal joy of moving through wild places, this episode is a deep dive into what motivates me—and maybe what can motivate you too. No pretense. No performance. Just truth, vulnerability, and a reminder that trying is enough.


Plus: gear talk, sponsor love, and why I might be cramping somewhere on the AT as you listen.


Brought to you by:


Janji. (wearing the AFO Ultra Shorts right now)


Garage Grown Gear


CS Instant Coffee


Chapters


00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey

03:14 The Importance of Defining Your Why

06:05 Embracing the Challenge of the Appalachian Trail

08:49 Finding Pride in Personal Goals

12:08 Overcoming Fear and Embracing the Unknown



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Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside


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