Q&A - How Hiking Changed My Life

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

When I first found your channel I felt very drawn to your content as genuine and not super flashy. You reminded me of writers from the 19th century who sought time in wilderness away from our contrived ideas of society. Now after reading much more of John Muir and Henry David Thoreau's work, I firmly believe you're the modern personification of their ideas. I mean that in the best way and as a compliment and not some kind of derivative comparison. Thank you for sharing your love of the outdoors with your audience (and me) and breaking the stereotype that experiencing long trails, or just appreciating nature has to be a start to end non-stop thing. Just. Ya. Thank you.

[@nedanother9382]

Your vulnerability is the key to your appeal. It's amazing to watch and very very inspiring. You're NEVER invisible.....you could be talking about farm equipment, wouldn't be any less appealing. I'm glad to know what you're working on and that sooner or later you'll be back. The voice telling you it sucks...is a liar. I'm trying to learn the same. Thanks John

[@nobodyhikes]

This feels like a conversation between two good friends while deep in the backcountry. Your content always moves and affects me in some way. Thank you, John!

[@gonewild1220]

Totally agree 👍 John your a ledgend!

[@andreaslangager859]

we don't hate everything you've ever made! I know for a fact that a lot of people (myself included ofc) in the community (the overseas community as well) really draws inspiration from you and your videos to progress towards better and more efficients hikes as well as to progress towards minimalistic ideals in their lives outside hiking. Thanks for the video man!

[@aspenadams]

"I think people worry too much about fitting into trends and trying to emulate others. There's no point in trying to just improve a little bit upon someone else's thing. It's way better to just go way over here and do something different." That's a really really good quote. As someone that likes to create stuff I find too often that I'm trying too hard to be like someone else. And I'll never be better then them at being themself. Thank you, John, for inspiring me, not to be more like you but, to be more like myself.

[@hibiru6868]

John, I'm going back through your videos since it's been a while. I've definitely been impact by your videos. My biggest take away has been reinforcing something that we feel but sometime can't grasp and that's "it'll be okay with time". Challenges arise, tough times come even when you're doing the things you love or are with the people you love, but get through them and the good times will be back again. The other thing your videos brought to me is seeing areas that I probably won't see myself. I miss hearing "this is my view" and seeing the beautiful views.

[@justinhelmkamp]

I think it's safe to say I don't think I would have ever started hiking and exploring without seeing your CDT and AT vids. Thanks for making your stories open and honest. I appreciate them.

[@phrayzar]

A channel with real substance, and the courage and honesty to have substance. Wonderful.

[@hhslf]

Your vids have definitely had an impact on me as I've been focusing more on hiking and outdoors stuff in the past couple years. Thanks for sharing all this cool stuff.

[@wyld_at_heartt7783]

We absolutely do care what you are doing. It’s so generous of you to give so much of yourself. Even a few videos a year it is obvious you are pouring your soul into your work and I personally will consider the day you put out your movie a gift to us we will not forget. You are setting a standard of perfection for yourself that I’m confident is going to pay off for you and your audience as well.

[@meton875]

Hate everything you’ve ever made??? I’m in LOVE with everything you’ve ever made, perfection ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@decentdiversions]

Watched the whole thing. I didn’t realize you were an engineer but that makes a lot of sense. I love how basically lying to your boss basically planted a seed in you to make something happen for real.

[@tonyronco4040]

I’ve always enjoyed Q&A videos, and was disappointed when you took them off your channel. Glad to see you return to the format in a big way. Thanks! Welcome back!

[@nellaanderson359]

Course we care - your videos capture the beauty that we all feel out there. Yes, you could be talking about farm equipment but it's the way you express it that makes it wonderful.

[@Reese842]

Thanks for talking about creating your own video style instead of emulation of another person's creation for views or subs etc. Your videos definitely inspired me to take my love of the outdoors from day hiking to thru-hiking. I want to see these places.

[@livinglike_lisa7954]

You remind me of a philosopher. Your candidness is refreshing.

[@CalvinHikes]

Yeah I like hiking and philosophy mixed as well. Hey livinglikelisa, I checked out your channel and it looks like you're a hiker and you watch hiking videos... but do you make videos? I'm just curious, as I check out people's channels and I find a lot without any content. Is it private? I guess I just don't know. Just asking. Thank you.

[@livinglike_lisa7954]

Calvin Hikes no I don’t make any videos. Maybe some day but I don’t hike enough right now.

[@apricotmarmelade]

Thank you for continuously sharing your process and relentlessly working on improving your videos. The quality of your work is incredible and I can’t wait for the hayduke, Alaska and whatever else you’ve got planned to be ready!

[@tkpwns04]

Thanks for the Q&A. I think a lot of people enjoy that you are genuine and honest in your videos. The same goes for your gear. You sell at a very reasonable price, which is probably why most of your stuff sells out so fast. You and Andrew seem dedicated to putting quality and customers first and I'd bet that is why you have a pretty good following of hikers that love your gear/company. I'll be rocking one of your fanny packs on the Colorado Trail this summer and maybe one of your backpacks in the future as I explore the no hipbelt/ultralight setup.

[@michaelb1761]

Very nice, and yes, Free Solo certainly did raise the bar for documentaries or at least outdoor documentaries. Thanks for taking us along on your hikes and speaking to us through your videos.

[@anthonymejia2670]

Hey John, since you said you like hearing about it, you and your videos really helped me get my priorities in life straight. I started getting into backpacking a few months before I stumbled upon a video of yours someone posted in r/ultralight, so I already knew I liked backpacking, but your attitude on backpacking and life helped me come to the decision to change career paths to something that would allow me more time to do the things I love and pursue bigger miles. I wouldn't have made that huge decision without your influence. You're the coolest.

[@margaretcox4290]

I like the way you think....deep but not spacey. The comment about the freedom to just do a hike but not always a thru hike speaks to me .

[@livesoutdoors1708]

You inspire...thank you for not staying "private" because you have a lot to contribute to us adventurers and the world. Good luck with your art.

[@getlost3094]

I’m just happy to be able to experience the world through this life. It really is a gift.

[@386Clarke]

Nice to hear your thoughts on thru hiking. I agree there is too much emphasis put on the triple crown and going from one arbitrary point to another. It lacks of creativity and self autonomy by being stuck between those two points. It seems some define themselves by following such narrow paths. And people applaud them for being so adventurous but it’s really very predictable and uninteresting - To me anyways. I like seeing people do what they want to do and being spontaneous and not just following some trail because that’s the trail, those are the points A and B, and that’s what they told people they were doing.

[@scottpope9105]

There are plenty of people that care about what you are doing, and I am one. When I stumbled across your videos from 2015 I was so excited about what a hiking video could look like. Your honesty and vulnerability along with the minimalist style really struck a chord with me. I decided that I would start trying to learn a little about filming hikes. I did the JMT last year and will start a SOBO AT this June and can't wait to get back on trail. Thanks for the inspiration and I look forward to seeing your next projects whenever they may be ready.

[@janosaldroun6560]

Good stuff John. I've enjoyed a lot of your content even if you don't like what you created. I'm always my biggest critic too, so I understand at some level. Looking forward to seeing what you release next!

[@bensosnowski1128]

Just listening to this makes me feel nostalgia for the trail, man I love these videos

[@briancswartz6411]

Great video, John. Your talent is very evident, and I'm very pleased you continue to share it with us.

[@bloodhootyeh]

It’s been a while since the last q&a video you upload, so glad this is a long video with lot of topic and questions!

[@pap4539]

Such a valuable first half in so many ways! That being said, your thoughts on laziness made me realize I’m being lazy right now. I’ll be back for the second half tonight after I get out and hike and get some photos I’ve been wanting to get for a while. Thanks John!

[@brendenray3876]

Ohh man, so good to hear that opening intro again. Hard to beat a new Jawnny Z vid

[@JohnZahorian]

yeah that song has a certain nostalgia to me now, too

[@highbalsamdesigns3452]

John, one day when you write your book, consider "Nothing matters, but in a good way" as a title! Love your videos man. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us.

[@nolankinney5593]

So excited to see what films you will create in the future. Yours are definitely my favorite videos on KZbin.

[@Lachlans-i2s]

Intro song was an immediate thumbs up

[@ambulowan]

What is the name?

[@slowpokespinar5390]

Thanks John! I seriously enjoy all the work you do to bring your experience of the awsome places you have been for our.benifit. Please keep going. Your pictures and videos are fantastic. I also like how real you keep it while sharing your emotions.

[@ks2567]

I'm so glad to see you come back around to social media for a quick visit. This Q&A felt like a deeper dive, like a maturation from previous discussions; it resonates. It feels like you're arriving with a more developed, authentic voice. You have a gift and the determination to create great work. And yeah, Fear is a Liar. I hope you can tame the brutal critical voice. Discernment is valuable, but it doesn't have to be cruel. I look forward to what you create next!

[@ChrisBrown-gw5tg]

John, when I grow up I want to be just like you. (I'm 42...) . You rock man. Keep up the great work!

[@tambourinemang]

Thanks John. Always appreciate hearing from you.

[@jigo13]

I can relate too much with that artist's negative inner monologue. It can be so hard sometimes. You are an inspiration for me to get out there and commit. Thank you and continue, it works.

[@DashFreerunning]

Keep up the amazing work John! It’s been amazing watching your work progress and develop. I can’t express how much your content has influenced me in a positive way. Thank ya!

[@robertdiaz3975]

as the vlogosphere expands your videos remain unique. the hiking comnunity is better for your contributions. keep evolving and telling stories. and keep up the amazing work at Pa'lante. thanks John Z

[@WildWestTrail]

Preach, brotha.

[@theooutdoors7969]

Thanks for this. Very sincere and a pleasure to watch.

[@richardbarrett2625]

Awesome Video man keep up the great work your an inspiration to all us who want to start hiking.you make a difference 🙌

[@Lachlans-i2s]

Thank you for your trail fam vs solo response. Totally resonate

[@bfdtcb]

Good to hear from you again...I've got to say I wouldn't mind seeing a longer version of the fkt video. It is one of my favorites and a very inspirational video for me. Thanks for getting me off my ass.

[@nicholasrokitka380]

Most excellent work John! Short form, longer stuff, it's all good. Do what you want. Also, missing the other Q&As, but it's all good!

[@jackpumkinhead9583]

Please do more of these videos your trail videos are what got me into thru hiking 🥾, they are just the best, thanks 🙏 for being you

[@sweetbodhisoul891]

There you are! LOVE your channel. Always interesting and unique. You are a talented storyteller. And I dig the music you use!

[@blueridgeexplorer]

You make great videos John. Thanks for sharing!

[@retiredusmc9090]

I would say that you have influenced many people and hikers alike maybe you have gotten some people to become hikers. While doing a section of the AT I ran into a guy named John his trail name was Long John and he turned me on to the Colorado trail. After that hike I found your FKT of the CT and it was my first eye opening video exposer to the CT. Well I completed my thru hike on Sept 6th 2018 and enjoyed every step, so thank you for your inspiration and to Long John for taking the time to share with me the beauty and challenges of the Colorado trail.

[@mycelium451]

Keep up the work on your video project! I'm definitely excited to see where you take it. I know Neemor and Darwin are collaborating on a hiking video right now too, so it's a great space to be in.

[@theironwarpig]

John Z, thanks for the response. Your thoughts on making little adjustments to your stride and gait were helpful, i'll definitely keep this in mind on the PCT

[@OffGridHawaii]

Found you though my girlfriends sister (dirty avocado). Love your style of movie making! It has made want to improve and think more about my process. Looking forward to seeing more of your movies 🤙🏽

[@HerbalistGuybrush]

Did she hike the pct in 17?

[@Chatter76]

Have you ever thought of the Lake Superior trail? Not very mountainous but beautiful views along the lake. Sadly, it isn’t very remote

[@Yourname3000]

This dude is my hero... Not really, but he’s still rad~

[@henryjones1897]

Thanks for answering my question!

[@DiscoverLifeMedia]

Great stuff you have going on. Keep up the good work!

[@lighterpacks]

Thank YOU.

[@adrivs.wild.pct23]

I love your person John, such a good content as usual !

[@elced01]

Hey John, some great wisdom in this video especially about the way you perceive and balance short term happiness and long term. Appreciate the transparency and your insight in life matters and your crafts, your drive for perfection comes out in the realness and beauty felt in your videos, honestly far better than free solo ,) . On the engineering side have you ever considered making a UL Backpack that also works duel function as a bikepacking saddle bag? I would love to do my first bikepacking trip but hate to have to rebuy new main UL bag to do so. Seems there is a lot of crossover in people doing these activities. Thanks!

[@thetrailhunter4469]

I just watched Free Solo twice back to back. Ball clinchingly good, see what you mean.

[@WildWestTrail]

A true inspiration.

[@donovanroberts6219]

Hey John, if you are interested in northern Canada, on the opposite side is “akshayak pass”. You should look into it, hiking next to ‘Mt. Thor’ is my dream hike. From what I’ve heard the McKenzie range is breathtaking. A lot of the mountains we have up here are not well documented, but that adds to the beauty of creating your own plan. Hope you’re doing well.

[@JohnZahorian]

woahhhhh that sure is far out there. thanks!

[@bretthikez6567]

half hour ...damn bro..hope you are enjoying life and looking for those dope ass ROUTES...i love hearing about people's ideas of off trail shit...about the skill set stuff ,i think it's so fun to do things and test yourself and gear....i enjoyed this vid .

[@jamiegoforth]

Beautiful videos!

[@CC-CODER]

Thanks John

[@davveylupek]

Thank you for this video

[@Andrew-mo6iz]

Could you release some more extra footage like you were talking about with the Colorado trail? It would be cool to see more about those experiences

[@frankynodots]

This was outstanding

[@Martyupnorth]

You should have way more views and way more subscribers. Cheers from Alberta.

[@andrewleidich]

I wish for Netflix to partner with you to create a bomb ass hiking documentary. Surely you have the talent and resume to show for.

[@mnberg]

Hi john, I regret not spending more time with you in Tucson. Hope we cross paths again in this life or the next.

[@kumsari2398]

Are you planning to do thru-hikes in the alps or new Zealand? I see you usually hike in North america.

[@CamHikes]

Love love love!

[@mars_hikes967]

"I hate everything I produce". You should just know that the rest of the world loves it, so maybe this helps you not to get consumed by your hate. I am pretty sure that the free solo people watch your videos too and that they cause them to work harder. At the moment Pa'lante hasn't a R&D department like Arc'teryx but if I would sit in a posh office there and the intern comes along with your Joey I would definitively get an existential crisis, for good reasons. I remember that once you released "cheap" videos. They were still much better than nearly all other hiking videos at the time.

[@Squighikes]

great video. What kind of camera are you using these days? still an RX100? If so what model?

[@ethanminier5542]

Any plans for a new The Routes episodes?

[@FOLLOWINGWALKERSWORLD]

John write a book! I’ll buy it.

[@francisdufour6487]

Free Solo seriously changed the game. Kinda sad that The dawn wall came out at basically the same time though. Great film as well

[@WildWestTrail]

Totally agree, two great films.

[@MrEditorsMusic]

Did you really use your 35mm f/2.8 for this? There's so much depth!

[@JohnZahorian]

i'm using a tamron 28-75 f/2.8 now and it's so good. probably set around 60mm f/3.5 for most of this vid

[@MrEditorsMusic]

@@JohnZahorian That's great, is that your new go to set up for longer hikes or do you still use your 35mm for those occasions?

[@ambulowan]

hey John, what programm or programs so you use for creating music? also do you only produce digitally?

[@uloutdoors]

CT b-sides, yay!

[@jackpitzen6152]

Hey John, luv you brother. What happened to the other Q&A vids on your channel?

[@JohnZahorian]

they are more of a way to interact in the moment, and over time a lot of context is lost, things get misinterpreted, and the comment section gets weird

[@jackpitzen6152]

@@JohnZahorian makes sense. Glad to hear more up-to-date feedback. Thank you

[@JChurchua]

2:15 Took a little bit to pin point that misedit. lol "questions and answers" again. Edit:oh, there appears to be many of those.

[@JohnZahorian]

strange. it's fine on my final rendered file but messed up in youtube. oh, youtube....

[@JChurchua]

Weird, there are several spots with an instantaneous blip that pops up. Makes me think of the scripted blips added to the films shown on "Fight Club." lol

[@JChurchua]

finally wrapped up the video. Great answers! KZbin makes it very easy to keep up with any channels, even the ones who post less frequently. I'll be waiting for the next!

[@gpk7683]

Yea John, I care what you’re doing a lot. Looking forward to whatever you post next time. More please

[@oneofnine4212]

So youre going into mountaineering that's awesome man! Fast and light and stupid is the best😂🤘

[@SlaveMonkey0072]

John, what's the easiest way to contact you about the Mackenzie Mountains? Looks like Instagram's a no-go, so I'm trying here. I'm looking into a kind of traverse myself and I've done lots of digging and map-reading

[@JohnZahorian]

[e-mail]

[@OverThePeaks]

Hey John, I am hiking the Canol trail in August 2020. I have all the maps, books and stuff on the history behind the trail. I don't know how to get in touch with you, but you can send me an email if you want and I'll share what I have. [e-mail] Cheers! Laurent

[@RicardoGuillen]

love ur videos bro! Got a question, did u ever try any psychedelics around any trail... if not would you try it ?

[@Tennyfun05]

17:06

[@bensosnowski1128]

I’ve ‘only’ hiked half of the AT, but my dream is to spend my retirement hiking the long trio and maybe end up building a cabin(s) in my favorite state(s)

[@garretchristensen]

"extremely normal behavior" :)

[@kapittsalt]

[@andyveres3982]

2nd

[@HerbalistGuybrush]

First

[@HerbalistGuybrush]

Finally my dream came true. John, youre my favorite ytuber :) thank you so much for inspiring

[@JohnZahorian]

proud of you