In today’s episode of Backpacker Radio presented by The Trek, brought to you by LMNT, we are joined by Demetri Coupounas, aka Coup, the founder of GoLite and MyTrail Company. Coup might just be the most interesting man in the world. This conversation takes us through his incredible journey, from his work balancing the federal budget in the '80s and '90s to becoming the first person to complete unsupported hikes of the Colorado Trail and the Long Trail, and how he stumbled upon the once underground world of ultralight backpacking.
We also dive into the history of GoLite, from its role in popularizing Ray Jardine’s ultralight designs to its meteoric rise with more than 20 retail stores nationwide—without taking any investor money—and its eventual downfall, leading to bankruptcy just a few years later. Coup shares the story of MyTrail Co, his follow-up venture, and how he applied the lessons learned from GoLite while stripping away what didn’t work, and how that eventually failed to achieve launch.
This episode is an insightful history lesson on GoLite and the world of ultralight backpacking, as well as a fascinating case study on business successes and failures.
We wrap up the show with a new 2-ounce device that could replace your Garmin InReach, what we consider a satisfactory number of steps in a typical day, and the ultimate Triple Crown of best smells.
LMNT: Get a free sample pack with any order at drinklmnt.com/trek.
Gossamer Gear: Use code “BACKPACKER20” for 20% off packs at gossamergear.com.
[divider]
Interview with Demetri “Coup” Coupounas
Time stamps & Questions
00:10:20 - Reminders: Join us for our live show in Austin, listen to our episodes ad-free on Patreon, and apply to vlog for the Trek!
00:12:40 - Introducing Coup
00:15:15 - What are your favorite backpacking Youtube channels?
00:16:25 - How did you get into politics?
00:28:10 - How fucked are we currently and what’s your take on DOGE?
00:34:44 - How did you get into backpacking?
00:42:00 - How would you walk a first time hiker through packing their backpack?
00:51:22 - Do you think fun correlates directly with the weight on your back?
00:53:40 - Why did you take on unsupported hikes?
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