Dreaming of your next big hiking challenge? In this episode, Crystal and Joe welcome Darrow Kirkpatrick — retired financial writer, seasoned adventurer, and author of Two Sticks, One Path. Darrow takes us along his trek across the Colorado Trail, sharing lessons that will inspire your own outdoor adventures, whether you’re planning a weekend hike or a multi-week expedition.

From practical packing strategies to mindset shifts that keep you moving when the trail gets tough, you’ll walk away with tools to make your next hike safer, lighter, and more rewarding. We’ll explore how to prepare your body for long-distance trekking, choose gear that works for you (not against you), and stay safe when wildlife or weather take an unexpected turn.

You’ll also hear the story behind a near-moose encounter, what the Colorado Trail taught Darrow about resilience, and how his “Gear of the Day” pick could change the way you pack forever.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How to choose lightweight gear without sacrificing comfort or safety
• Training strategies that prepare you for elevation, distance, and endurance challenges
• Smart ways to handle unpredictable weather in the mountains
• Essential gear for water purification on the trail
• How to navigate wildlife encounters with confidence and caution
• Packing tips that help you avoid overloading while still being ready for anything
• Why mental preparation is just as important as physical conditioning for long hikes
• An “adventure-approved” Gear of the Day you might not see coming

You'll find Darrow's photos and more at TrailMemoir.com (specifically THIS LINK)

You'll find Darrow's new Gear of the Day picks at StackingAdventures.com/GearOfTheDay

Ready to tell YOUR hiking story? You'll have five minutes AND appear in a future episode at StackingAdventures.com/MyStory

Join our growing Facebook community of nearly FIFTY adventurers! We're sharing tips, photos, and more! Here's the link.

What do you get when you mix Vatican politics, mafia secrets, fine art forgery, and a dash of gelato? Award-winning mystery author Michael Balter joins us to share the real-life adventures that inspired his novel The Vatican Deal—a fast-paced thriller set against the backdrop of Rome, Florence, Naples, and Capri.

But this episode isn’t just about fiction. Michael brings stories from his own globetrotting life: negotiating with the Vatican, almost buying a centuries-old foundry, and getting swept up in the magic (and madness) of Italy’s cities. From sipping espresso in ancient coffee shops to exploring iconic landmarks like the Coliseum and Vatican, he gives us both the postcard highlights and the behind-the-scenes grit that most tourists miss.

Also in this episode:

• Why renting a boat in Capri should absolutely be on your bucket list

• The secret to tackling Italy’s world-famous museums without hitting a wall of overwhelm

• What to expect on Italy’s blazing-fast bullet trains

• Tech tips for navigating Italian culture (and why your smartphone might betray you)

• Gear of the Day: a must-have for your next trip through Italy’s cobblestone streets

Whether you’re planning a trip, dreaming of one, or just love a good mystery set in a killer location, this episode delivers wanderlust with a side of whodunit.

What happens when you mix millennia-old ruins, sun-drenched islands, and gourmet Greek cuisine? You get an unforgettable adventure—plus a podcast episode to match.

In this wanderlust-packed episode of Stacking Adventures, hosts Joe Saul-Sehy and Crystal Hammond are joined by a very special guest: Joe’s wife, Cheryl Saul-Sehy, a seasoned traveler with a keen eye for luxury, efficiency, and surprise gems you won't find on most itineraries. Together, they unpack their latest trip to Greece, spanning the historic streets of Athens, the Instagram-ready cliffs of Santorini, and the charming hospitality of Crete and Naxos.

• The Ancient Meets the Modern in Athens: From the Acropolis to upscale walking food tours, Joe, Crystal, and Cheryl break down why the cradle of Western civilization should still be on your bucket list (and your stomach’s).

• Santorini’s Stunning... and Packed: Is the sunset as romantic as it looks in the brochures? Yes. But also: elbows. Lots of elbows. Get tips on dodging crowds and soaking in the caldera views like a pro.

• Crete’s Hidden Depths: Explore more than beaches—like the poignant beauty of a preserved leper colony and the stunning Palace of Knossos. Plus, Cheryl’s unexpected emotional moment at a nearly forgotten site.

• Naxos, the Culinary Underdog: Spoiler alert—this island may have stolen the show. Learn why renting a car here is a must, how to find secret beaches, and where to eat your weight in feta.

• Logistical Gold: From scoring flights with credit card points to the perks (and limitations) of Disney-guided tours, this episode dishes out real traveler talk for making your next trip smoother—and more rewarding.

• Gear of the Day: Cheryl reveals the MVP of the trip, a simple travel essential that made all the difference in staying organized and secure abroad. You’ll want to add this to your packing list, stat.

This isn’t your average travel chat. It’s a blend of heartfelt storytelling, practical wisdom, and enough dreamy island imagery to get your suitcase halfway packed. Whether you're planning your first Greek adventure or reliving your last one, you’ll walk away with ideas, laughs, and a serious craving for baklava.

Have a favorite Greek island, hidden taverna, or ferry tip? Share it with the Stacking Adventures community—we’re always hungry for more (especially if it involves olives or octopus).