Not everybody in Europe has heard of Big Agnes, the outdoor specialist whose products span tents, sleeping bags and pads, furniture, backpacks, clothing and accessories.
They proudly call themselves The Mother of Comfort, with a mission to get us outside and help us share their love of the backcountry.
Based in Steamboat Springs, deep in Colorado’s Mount Zirkel Wilderness, the company takes its name from one of the area’s highest peaks—Big Agnes.
Today my guest is co-founder Bill Gamber. We’re about to dive into what drives him and his team, and how they’ve built a brand whose pioneering gear has become some of the most sought-after in its field.
BIG AGNES
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This episode is sponsored by Sunware Solar
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#13 Preparation for Kyrgyzstan and a power cut with Mikael Strandberg
The intrepid explorer Mikael Strandberg has countless expeditions behind him. In recent years, he’s often travelled with his two daughters. Right now, they’re preparing for their next foot march into the Tien Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan.
We cover a lot in this conversation—so much that I think we’d have gone on endlessly if technology hadn’t cut us short. A sudden power cut in Sweden ended things mid-sentence.
One of the highlights is Mikael’s kit list. It’s everything he and his daughters are packing for the Tien Shan. In fact, it’s a great starting point for anyone planning to backpack remotely while filming along the way. You can download his list here:
Mikael's Kit List
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Follow Mikael Strandberg:
Facebook | Instagram | Substack | LinkedIn
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This episode is sponsored by Sunware Solar
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#12 Attitude and Minimalism with Jacqui Furneaux
The summer break is over and we’re back!
We’ve been travelling, working on the cars, writing and recording … which means we’ve got a ton of new stories lined up for you over the next few months. I must say, it feels really good to have all the ducks in a row.
But now, let’s jump into the latest episode of the @overlandeurope podcast.
Today’s guest sums up her philosophy in one line: “I’ve found that all I need in life is the right attitude and what can be comfortably carried on a Royal Enfield.”
After raising a family and working as a nurse and health visitor, Jacqui Furneaux packed a bag in 1998 and set off solo for the first time in her life. What began as a one-year journey became something much bigger.
Southeast Asia, Pakistan and India lit the spark and with the dawn of the new millennium, she swapped her backpack for road maps and, for her 50th birthday, bought a Royal Enfield Bullet in India.
With no plan, no grand design—just the right attitude—Jacqui rode off.
Twenty countries and countless stories later, she’s still proving that the best adventures often begin when you don’t overthink them.
Follow Jacqui Furneaux:
Instagram | Facebook
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Read Jacqui's bestseller: Hit The Road Jac!
Available on: Amazon, Kindle, and Spotify/Audible
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This episode is sponsored by Sunware Solar
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#11 Anton talks about his Defender's electrics
Anton Poplett has to rely on being able to run and charge his equipment when he's deep in the bush. In this day and age, it shouldn't be too difficult, but he's had his fair share of problems along the way.
Here are some of the tips and facts Anton refers to during our talk:
Remember your power draw in summer will differ from winter. In summer it’s possible the fridges will run for longer hours keeping temperature. In winter, you may use a diesel heater.
With my current setup in summer, I will average using 11% - 14% of my battery. In winter, I will use between 8% to 11%. It varies daily according to temperatures, sunrise, and sunset
DCDC charger: Ctek 250SE (lithium) and Ctek Smartpass
Inverter: Victron 500W inverter.
Solar panel: 300Watt (plugs in around 16-18Amps depending on angle towards the sun)
Battery: 305Ah lithium with BMS and bluetooth
Charging ports: single Distribution box with USB, type c, cigarette light, Anderson plugs with breakers,
Wiring: all wiring needs to be adequate for his usage. The gauge for wiring from the Ctek to the auxiliary battery will of course be much thicker than wiring to charge a USB type C.
Connecting points (like Anderson plugs): ensure all connecting and joins our firm and cannot rattle loose or cause a disconnection. This will give you false readings.
Calculating your power draw requirement. Add all of your devices you would like to use off the auxiliary battery. This includes laptop, lights, drones, Camera equipment, fridges/freezer, and so forth. Calculate as an average and when not driving.
Follow Anton and 4x4outfar on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube
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This episode is sponsored by SunWare Solar
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#10 Church House Classics with Richard Hudson
I think it’s fair to say that my guest today is indirectly connected to the overlanding world … but intimately involved with some of the vehicles we love and rely upon when we're out and about exploring the world.
He runs a thriving restoration business, manages a popular YouTube channel and, when he’s not wielding his tools, isn’t impartial to British ale or a gin and tonic.
My guest’s name is Richard Hudson … aka Church House Classics, and he’s an expert when it comes to Range Rover Classics, Series Land Rovers, MGBs and Triumph Stags.
Unsurprisingly, I first ran into Richard on YouTube. I watched one of his videos and promptly ended up binge-watching the series about Bob - you’re going to have to check out his channel if you want to know more!
Needless to say, it was Richard’s authenticity, wisdom and unique sense of humour (including his impersonation of seals) that had me glued to the screen.
Some would say his workshop is untidy and his language is colourful—the man calls a spade a spade—but Richard possesses an uncanny skill to take the wizardry and mystery of mechanics and bodywork, and turn them into an entertaining, and compelling video series packed with a wealth of hands-on experience.
Oh … Richard was also featured in the January 2025 edition of that equally wonderful magazine Land Rover Monthly.
Follow Richard on YouTube and Instagram
This Episode is sponsored by Sunware Solar
The overlanding podcast - regardless of whether you prefer to walk it, ride it or drive it - featuring travellers, gear reviews, industry news and more. Hosted by Mike Brailey
Ireland