Overland Bonfire - podcast cover

Overland Bonfire

Blue Ridge Overland Gearblueridgeoverlandgear.com
Welcome to the Overland Bonfire Podcast, where we talk all things overlanding, adventure, and the gear that makes it all possible. This is the place to swap stories, share wisdom, and nerd out on everything from storage solutions to suspension upgrades. Hosted by the team at Blue Ridge Overland Gear, we bring you real conversations with seasoned overlanders, industry pros, and everyday explorers who live for the journey. So pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee (or something stronger), and join us by the fire.
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Episodes

Camping in the Rain... and Other Digressions

In this episode we tell some stories and talk about how we deal with camping in the rain... or at least that was the idea. Let's just say we got off topic a few times, but would you expect anything else from us? SHOP NOW:⁠ https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/⁠Youtube:⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw⁠ Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/⁠ Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear

Apr 17, 202429 min

Why Do We Do This?

Join us this week as we talk about why exactly we do what we do. That's right, Rick decided to go a little deep this week. We dive into why Matt builds things, why Logan makes videos, and why Rick loves obscure vintage backpacks. Yep, this episode has a little something for everyone... assuming that everyone is just a little bit of a nerd. Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your Journey SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW...

Apr 03, 202421 min

How To Start Overlanding

In this episode, we discuss what it takes to get started overlanding. While we all agree that you don't need to have a ton of gear, there are some categories that are helpful to consider before setting out. Things like food, sleeping arrangements, shelter, and navigation can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable—or less so. Let us know in the comments what your first overlanding set up was like! SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/...

Mar 20, 202426 min

Full-Size Vs Mid-Size

In this episode we debate the pros and cons of Full-Sized and Mid-Sized rigs. Matt starts out with a strong preference for full Size, but Rick's Mid-Size has served him well in some tight spots. In the end Matt surprises us with his Mid-Size picks. Let us know in the comments what you prefer and why. SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/ Facebook: https://www.f...

Mar 06, 202426 min

We Almost Died

We've all been on trips where things went a little sideways. In this episode, the guys recall some times that they got a little too close to the black robe and sickle. The stories range from a sled-dog debacle to a childhood encounter with a tornado at a music festival. And of course there are some tangents. That's what we do. If you've had some close calls, aka Type 3 fun, but sure to drop us a comment or DM.

Feb 21, 202417 min

Blue Ridge Overland Gear Has a New Team Member

You might remember that CT departed BROG a couple of months ago, and now we're welcoming Logan to the team. He'll be handling lots of video and photography duties, jumping into the podcast, and wherever else the winds of working on a small team lead us. In this episode of the Overland Bonfire Podcast, we learn a little bit about Logan, some of past (mis)adventures, and, of course, we explore a few tangents. It's what we do.

Feb 07, 202418 min

We Respond to Negative Comments - Overland Bonfire Podcasts

While the vast majority of comments we receive across social media are overwhelmingly positive, we occasionally get some that are less than joyful. In this episode of the Overland Bonfire podcast, we respond to some of those and try to decipher some that don't make much sense at all.As always, you can find our gear at www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com

Jan 24, 202453 min

What's New at Blue Ridge Overland Gear (Early 2024)

We've made it through the holidays and spent the last weekend of 2023 on the trail with friends. Now it's time to get back into the shop to get started on some big plans for 2024! In the latest episode of the Overland Bonfire, Matt and Rick discuss where we are headed in 2024, some new products that will be debuting in the first quarter of the year, and more. As always, you can find our gear www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com

Jan 11, 202432 minEp. 125

Radio Chatter: The Overlanding Card Game - Overland Bonfire Podcast December 13, 2023

In this episode of The Overland Bonfire, we dive into a deck of cards from our friends at the Radio Chatter Game. The Radio Chatter Game not only provides a regular 52-card deck, but each card also provides a conversation prompt that's designed to spur conversation with your travel companions around the campfire or over the radio while on the trail. We love the idea and decided to incorporate it into one of our podcast episodes. You can check out the game at https://www.radiochattergame.com/ and...

Dec 13, 202339 min

What We Want for Christmas, an Overland Gift Guide - Overland Bonfire Podcast November 29, 2023

We like gear, and not just the stuff we make at Blue Ridge Overland Gear! In this episode of the Overland Bonfire Podcast, we break down a few safe bets for great gifts for the gear-minded individuals on your shopping list. From everyday items to required kit, there's something for everybody and every price point. Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your Journey SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw Instagram: https://ww...

Nov 30, 202331 min

Catching up with Rodney Dewson (aka Overland_Medic) - Overland Bonfire Podcast November 16th, 2023

In this episode of the Overland Bonfire, we catch up with our friend Rodney Dewson, aka Overland Medic. Since he was last on the show, he's been busy with his regular Special Operations Firefighter and Paramedic duties, but he's also launched a new project. Under the Overland Medic brand, he's outfitting a number of purpose-built first aid kits that are designed to take care of minor medical needs and trauma situations. Rodney uses his nearly 20 years of emergency medical knowledge to build kits...

Nov 15, 20231 hr 12 min

Our Favorite Beef Jerky, So Far...

Since most of our podcast episodes tend to veer into the territory of food and snacking, we decided to go all out and devote an entire episode to the subject. Instead of just discussing beef jerky, aka the ultimate road trip snack, we decided to test it on screen. To top it all off, we asked you to send us your favorite jerky brands, and you all came through in a big way!Check out the full episode to see our breakdown of our favorite beef jerky.

Oct 25, 202337 min

CT, Gone but Not Forgotten.

You read that right. CT, the beloved member of the Overland Bonfire trio of hosts, is no longer with us. He's alive. He just got a new job. We wish him well in his new endeavors! Plus, we have a huge favor to ask of our listeners/viewers! You'll have to watch to find out what it is.

Oct 02, 202322 min

How To Choose Overland Gear - Overland Bonfire Podcast September 13th, 2023

Everyone has their favorite gear, but how do you land on those favorites? In this episode of the Overland Bonfire Podcast, we break down what we look for across a wide range of equipment that helps us stay prepared in the outdoors. As always, if you have episode topic suggestions, drop them in the comments or reach out to us on Blue Ridge Overland Gear's social media channels. Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your Journey SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: https://www.yo...

Sep 13, 202334 min

Overlanding and Ham - Overland Bonfire Podcast August 30th, 2023

Overlanders love ham. At least the team at BROG loves ham. And it also seems that overlanders love HAM. So why not have a podcast where we discuss both!?! After a short digression, we talk about getting your HAM license, our favorite radios, and other in-rig communication options. Plus, we take a creative route in explaining what's legal and what isn't when it comes to radio licenses. If you're looking to dive into the HAM world, check out our buddy Thomas. He has a great site, https://qrper.com...

Aug 30, 202323 min

Best Tools For Overlanding - Overland Bonfire August 16th 2023

Overlanders love tools. Duh. And we had a listener that asked about our favorite tools for cooking, camp chores, etc. So that's how we ended up on the topic of our favorite things. As it turns out, no matter what it is, we look for some of the same characteristics. Listen to the full episode for details and the prerequisite tangents. Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your Journey SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw I...

Aug 16, 202333 min

Best Places to Overland: East Coast - Overland Bonfire August 2nd, 2023

We've camped a lot of places here on the East Coast and in this episode, we wanted to share our favorites. And what did we miss? Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your Journey SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear

Aug 02, 202327 min

Facebook Wants Your Kids To Bleed Out - Overland Bonfire July 19th, 2023

Typically our Social Media overlords restrict things with good intentions. But they also don't always go to plan. Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your Journey SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ -------------------------------------------------- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear

Jul 19, 202328 min

Our Favorite Overland Trips - Overland Bonfire June 28th, 2023

From dog sledding to getting stuck in the woods, here are our favorite overland trips. Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your Journey SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ - ------------------------------------------------- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear

Jun 28, 202336 min

What is the Best Overland Vehicle? - Overland Bonfire May 24th, 2023

A friend challenged us to make a would-you-rather. We couldn't pass it up. Would you rather go on a trip with a nice newbie or a grouchy pro? You'll have to listen to hear our answers. SHOP NOW: ⁠https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/⁠ Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear⁠ ⁠...

Jun 07, 202328 min

What is the Best Overland Vehicle? - Overland Bonfire May 24th, 2023

It's a question heard often, but few have tried to answer it. Ride with us into uncharted territory full of eagles, minivans, Tacomas, and more. Blue Ridge Overland Gear - Reclaim Your Journey SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ -------------------------------------------------- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeoverlandgear

May 24, 202337 min

The Zachary Diehl Episode!! - Overland Bonfire April 26th, 2023

If you've seen @zachary_diehl 's videos, you know why we love him. His unique twist of wit and wacky adventure has made him an instant favorite among the overland community. You won't want to miss our chat about overland comedy, pretzels, and international espionage. SHOP NOW: ⁠ https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw ⁠ Instagram: ⁠ https://www.instagram.com/blueridgeoverlandgear/ ⁠ Facebook: ⁠ https://www.facebook.com/blueridgeo...

Apr 26, 20231 hr 16 min

Don't Buy Our Products If...

On occasion, someone, usually not a customer, makes a comment about the price of our products. Maybe they aren't aware that all of our bags are built right here in Bedford, Virginia, from American-made materials. Now, we're not saying everyone should buy everything American-made. Matt sums it up best with, "Buy what makes sense for you." If you need a product that will last, we hope to fill that need. So, if you want to hear more, check out our deep dive into American manufacturing, why we do th...

Apr 12, 202357 min

How to Film Vehicle Adventures- Overland Bonfire March 29th, 2023

In this episode, we catch up with Jason from Mountain State Overland. We wanted to get his input on how to record your overland journey. He gave us great insight into the whole process that he uses to record his journies as he explores and guides overland trips around the country. We dive into how to record without bogging down your pace, the gear Jason prefers for shots inside and out of his rigs, and how to tackle the task of editing once the trip is over. If you're looking to up your adventur...

Mar 29, 202346 min

Overlanding For Beginners - Overland Bonfire March 15th, 2023

What do you really need to overland? A brand new 4x4 kitted out with all of the latest and greatest gear? A rare classic off-road rig that you have broken down and rebuilt a dozen times? 52 weeks of PTO to traverse a hemisphere or two? That would be a no, a no, and another no. In this episode of the Overland Bonfire, we talk about what you really need to get out and quench your thirst for adventure. In all reality, it's better to focus on the experience and ease into it instead of compiling a mi...

Mar 15, 202333 min

Overlanding Vs Offroading - Overland Bonfire February 22nd, 2023

Off-roading versus overlanding? They're the same thing, right? They can be, but they can also be very, very, very different. In this episode of the Overland Bonfire Podcast, we talk about the differences we perceive and our experiences that involve the two communities evolving over time. While this tends to be a hotly contested debate in some corners of the internet, we tend to believe that as long you're prepared, having a good time, and responsibly enjoying the outdoors, you can call it whatev...

Feb 23, 202344 min

Is Overlanding Expensive? - Bonfire Show February 8th, 2023

Is overlanding expensive? Why is overlanding expensive? How do I overland on a budget? Those are all questions that we hear a lot. In this episode of the Overland Bonfire Podcast, we take a deep dive into the ins and outs of what you really need to "overland." The cool flashy gear is awesome to have, but all you really need is a rig, a place to sleep, some food, and fuel. As long as you keep your sense of adventure and expectations reasonable, you can have a lot of "vehicle-supported backcountry...

Feb 09, 202333 min

Adam is back - Overland Bonfire Show January 18th, 2023

If you've been a friend of Blue Ridge Overland Gear for a while then our guest on this episode of the Overland Bonfire will be a familiar face. Adam Schalow spent several years here at BROG, before heading west, and he's now a member of the Rhino Rack. Learn what he's been up to, how the Cherokee build is going, and more in this overland trip down memory lane. SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw Instagram: https://www...

Jan 19, 202346 min

2022 Recap - Bonfire Show December 14th, 2022

In this episode of the Blue Ridge Bonfire Podcast, we chat about the last year at Blue Ridge Overland Gear, including the new BROG Campground, products that we launched, and more. Plus, we give a quick preview of what's in store for 2023. As always, thanks for watching/listening. We appreciate the support, and Happy New Year to the #BROGnation ! SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/...

Jan 04, 202326 min

Overland Dashboard Setups + More Camp Cooking - Bonfire Show December 14th, 2022

This week we talk about Overland Radios and what we're rocking on our dashboards. Maybe we just love food, because, towards the end, we went down a major food rabbit hole. No regrets. Thank you for your courtesy regarding our technical difficulties. Our camera died and was out of focus when it came back on. We have a fix for the future. SHOP NOW: https://www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2TInbINexaZME_0mhW_bnw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blueridge...

Dec 14, 202248 min
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