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It's commonly said that the people are what make a place special. In this episode, Dave reflects on how his interactions with fellow Philmont staff and participants, taught him that one could live a life outside of the traditional norm. Also, that we can do more than we realize with our bodies, our will, and our minds. All of which shifted his priorities in life, solidifying for him that time in nature and time with friends in a simple setting, is was what means the most.

Philmont Experience:
2004 - Trek participant
2007 - Ranger
2008 - Environmental Educator / ROCS
2009 - PC Crater Lake
2010 - Cons A-Team/Dance Band Coordinator/Base Camp Carouser

The life of a Philmont staffer is lighthearted and fun for sure - but also opens doors for serious, deep conversations about the meaning of life.  Especially while making and executing plans to hike to see a friend or a lover, with less than 12 hours to spare, yet you still go - hike to that camp, sleep on the roof under the stars, and talk for hours.  There’s a fleeting limitlessness to those encounters.

Today Dave is an ultra-runner by day, performing musician by night.  The Philmont backcountry campfire scene and his summer at Crater Lake taught him how to be a performer and influenced the music he would go on to write, produce, and play.  We discuss the song-writing process and favorite tunes from his discography.  Referring to the song titled “Ain’t Gonna be Easy” on his album State to State, Dave says:

“The wildness and energy of our youth doesn't go away, it just becomes more compartmentalized & controlled. This song is a love letter to friendship, celebrating what it is to have a friend who knows you, where you came from, and who can remind you of who you are.”

Check out Dave’s music on Bandcamp, Spotify, and his website. If you’ve registered for the first ever Philmont Trail Race happening this August, you will see him there! 

Notable Mentions:
Bryce Blankenship
Pete Weber
Rosy Gallegos
Piper Niehaus
Doug Palmer
Ranger Matt
Allison Vinson Defrees
Alex Pagnotta
Bob Frieman
Brian Grey
Tim Collver
Ellie Nickens
Iron John Logan
Mark Anderson
Alice Paulding Gabriel
Demitri "Mungo"
Andrew Garner
Gene Schnell
Barbara Garcia
Katie Nuessly
Jose Fernandez - Miami Marlins
Tim Borden
Austin St. George