INTO THE BACKCOUNTRY: BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND A LOVE FOR CONSERVATION

In this episode, host Dave Bastian talks with ACE staff members Caroline Canter and Keean Ruane—who share their backgrounds in guiding young adults into the backcountry and watching them transform through these experiences.

Together, they explore what makes backcountry hitches such uniquely powerful experiences. From the joy of living immersed in wild places to the personal breakthroughs that happen miles from the trailhead, Caroline and Keean share stories of resilience, confidence-building, and unforgettable wilderness moments—including wildlife encounters, personal transformations, and the camaraderie that makes conservation culture so meaningful.

And for anyone considering their first step into the outdoors, the episode offers practical, beginner-friendly backpacking tips—from choosing the right gear and managing pack weight to staying comfortable in challenging environments. Caroline and Keean share the guidance they give new ACE members and students, including the small skills and mindset shifts that make backcountry travel accessible to anyone.

Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker, an aspiring ACE member, or simply curious about what life looks like behind the scenes on a conservation crew, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and inspiration from people who have lived it.