Making Custom Packs, Setting FKTs, Escaping Death, and Starting an Outfitter with Jonathan "Janis Joplin" Thomas (BPR #307)

In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by Topo Athletic, we are joined by Jonathan Thomas, known on trail as Janis Joplin. Janis Joplin is a thru-hiker, FKT record holder, D1 collegiate track and field athlete, former news cameraman, Boston Marathon bombing survivor, CDT trail angel, and owner of Exotic Pax, an innovative, vest-style backpack for thru-hikers handmade in Chama, New Mexico. This episode covers a lot of ground, including the many times he’s narrowly escaped death, what is was like growing up in New Orleans, being a D1 collegiate athlete, what brought him into the world of FKTs and how FKT athletes are more possessive over their records than they might lead on, what it’s like to run an outfitter in a sleepy CDT town, and the inspiration and process that goes into his unique backpacks.

We wrap the show with a reversal on the closure of a campground key to JMT and PCT hikers, our takes on who’d win in a fight between 100 men and one silverback gorilla, and the Triple Crown of items you geniously stash in many strategic locations.

Topo Athletic: Use code “TREKSPRING15” at topoathletic.com.

Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com. 

Betterment: Learn more at betterment.com/trek.

Burgeon Outdoor: Use code “BACKPACKER15” for 15% off at burgeonoutdoor.com.

Bear Mattress: Use code “BACKPACKER” for 40% off at bearmattress.com.

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Interview with Jonathan Thomas aka JJ

• JJ's Instagram
• JJ's Youtube
• Exotic Pax Website
• Tumble On Outfitters Website

Time stamps & Questions

00:05:34 - Reminders: Take our survey, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to blog for the Trek!

00:09:25 - Introducing JJ

00:10:28 - What’s it like growing up in New Orleans?

00:18:10 - Tell us about working for a news channel

00:21:40 - What’s the most interesting scene you ever shot from?

00:24:30 - What were the highlights from the local news industry?

00:26:50 - What events did you do at LSU?

00:30:00 - Discussion about biking in Baton Rouge

00:34:20 - What personality differences were there between swimmers and runners?
00:35:25 - Why did you walk on to the team at LSU?

00:37:35 - Tel