Can relying on smell, touch, sound, and taste unlock a richer way to explore the backcountry, even for those with sight? Experience the wilds of Montana as Hoby did: through the scent of fresh chanterelles, the thrill of a fly rod loading up, and the beep of a metal detector striking gold.
This week on the Backcountry Manifesto Podcast, join us for Hoby’s Big Ass Montana Adventure with Dr. Hoby Wedler—a sensory storyteller, food enthusiast, and PhD in organic chemistry—who’s been totally blind since birth. From foraging early-season chanterelles in undisclosed forests (complete with their apricot-plum aroma), to panning for gold nuggets in historic mining districts, and mastering fly fishing on the Yellowstone River amid thunderstorms and swallow-filled caves, Hoby shares how he navigates grizzly country, echoes locations like a bat, and turns everyday senses into superpowers. We dive into whiskey tastings, elk dinners with wild mushrooms, and life lessons on embracing challenges, preparation, and positivity. Plus, Hoby ranks his favorite experiences and inspires us to try new things without fear. If you’re into foraging, prospecting, fishing, or just reimagining the outdoors through fresh perspectives, this episode is your ultimate sensory adventure.
Links mentioned in this video
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Sponsors
- Special thanks to our partners at Shared Pour! Visit SharedPour.com – Use code “BACKCOUNTRY” for 10% off at checkout.
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Credits
- Intro and Animations by Barry Thompson
- Photograph Contributions for Animation by Carver Weeks
- Additional Graphics by Andrew O’Neill
- Production Assistance by John Stock
- “Welcome to the Backcountry” theme song by Logan Roth, Will Brown, Arjun Dube and produced at Treacle Mine Studios, Phila, PA
- Copyright Outdoor Visions Media LLC, 2025
