#11 | "Miranda in the Wild" ft. Miranda Webster

In this episode of Walking Distance presented by The Trek and hosted by Blissful Hiker (Alison Young), we are joined by Miranda Webster, the star of REI’s Youtube series, “Miranda in the Wild.” Beginning her career as a cashier at REI, Miranda now educates new backpackers about everything from meal planning, how to wash gore tex, and most popularly, how to poop in the woods.

Blissful Hiker covers the Youtube filming process, how Miranda relates to her Youtube audience, and advice to others hoping to break into the outdoor industry.

Gossamer Gear discount code: Use code “walkingdistance” to save 15% off your cart at GossamerGear.com.

Walking Distance is sponsored by John Reamer and Associates. Go to www.johnreamer.com to learn more.

Interview with Miranda Webster

1:48 - Background on Miranda and “Miranda in the Wild”

2:50 - First of all, AOC reposted you on Instagram? What did she repost and how did you feel about it?

4:37 - How does it feel that you’ve helped someone of her stature to start backpacking? You’ve ushered a new person into the world of backpacking.

5:20 - You do have a dream job - how did you make the transition from being a backpacker to working in the outdoor industry?

7:18 - You embody the type of spirit the REI brand is after. Who came up with the idea of “Miranda in the Wild”? Did you go from cashier to Youtube star?

11:10 - What’s so great about the series is that you’re just being yourself. Who works with you, and what are your producers like?

11:54 - Do you write out what you’re going to say, or does it grow organically?

12:57 - Have you ever had any weird video fails?

14:27 - Why do you think the video format works so well?

15:40 - Sometimes there’s a feeling that to backpack, you have to be perfect and look like the Patagonia ads. So you putting the real process out there and sometimes looking silly on the trail, is relatable to everyone.

19:07 - How did you find your niche talking about relieving yourself in the outdoors?

20:00 - How does REI feel about your approach on video, being natural and laid back?

21:35 - There’s a lot of burping, and a lot of bleeping of swear words. How does that work out with your job contract?

22:48 - Do you have a favorite video you’ve created? I really enjoyed the backpacking hygiene video.

24:20 - For people listening, you’re talking about doing a video spending only $200 to do a backpacking trip with gear. 

25:05 - How do you balance your personal trips with your adventures for “Miranda in the Wild”?

26:47 - Do you feel like being a well known figure in the outdoor industry has changed anything about your experiences in the outdoors? Do people recognize you?

28:25 - Do you have advice for people looking to break into the outdoor industry?

29:30 - What do you want your career to