The CAMO Convoy Overland Podcast

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we sit down with Jed Smith, founder of Backroads of Appalachia, to talk about the rise of one of the most unique grassroots motorsport events in the country: 24 Hours of Appalachia.What started as a small regional rally has grown into a legitimate endurance competition attracting serious drivers, national attention, and real economic impact for Appalachian communities.We break down:• How 24 Hours of Appalachia was built from the ground up• The vision behind Backroads of Appalachia• What makes this rally different from everything else• The future of East Coast off road and rally racing• What competitors NEED to understand before showing upThis isn’t just racing.It’s movement, culture, and a new chapter for motorsports in Appalachia.If you care about overland, off road, rally, or the future of grassroots motorsports in America — this episode matters.Subscribe for more conversations on overland, off road, and the great outdoors.

OUR STUFFGET THE CAMO GEAR HEREIf you think more lumens means better lighting… this episode might hurt a little.In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, we break down why most overlanders are setting up their off road lights wrong.We cover:• Light zones and how to properly layer your lighting• Beam patterns and why combo beams can lead to a mistake• LED vs halogen performance and eye fatigue• Why roof lights can are a bad idea if you pick the wrong light• How desert racing lighting setups differ from trail driving• Color temperature, amber vs white, and what your eyes actually prefer• When too much light becomes a liability• Basic wiring considerations and electrical loadOverlanding is not desert racing.If you are crawling tight Appalachian back roads at night, you do not need a Baja trophy truck light bar blasting 600 yards into the woods.This episode is about designing a lighting system that actually works for how you drive.Whether you run ditch lights, roof bars, amber floods, halogens, or LEDs, this conversation will make you rethink your setup.If you care about functional gear instead of just bolting on more lights, this one is for you.Subscribe for weekly overland talk, trail stories, gear breakdowns, and real world testing.

ALL OUR STUFFNEW MERCH!THE CAMP TONNEAU TENTRooftop tents have dominated the overland world for years.But are they still the best option?Today we compare a traditional RTT mounted on a bed rack versus the new Camp Tonneau truck bed tent system. Weight. Cost. Setup time. Center of gravity. Real world practicality.No brand bias. No fluff.Just the pros and cons of both setups so you can decide for yourself.So… which one would you run?Drop your pick in the comments.

THE BEST MERCH --> HERE!ALL OUR STUFF --> CLICK HERE!Ever wonder why rigs catch fire after a “simple” wiring job?This episode kicks off Don’t BBQ Your Rig, a no BS breakdown of 12V electrical basics for trucks and overland rigs. No diagrams you can’t read, no electrical engineering degree required, and no pretending bad wiring is “good enough.”We break down electrical loads in plain language and explain why wires melt, fuses pop, and accessories stop working when people start stacking lights, radios, compressors, and chargers without thinking it through.We cover:What electrical load actually means in real world termsLow, medium, and high demand accessoriesWhy amperage is what kills wiring, not voltageWhy voltage is just electrical pressureWhy wire size matters more than most people thinkCommon lighting and accessory wiring mistakesThe race level correct way to connect power and groundWhy you can’t shove 200 amps through tiny wire without consequencesIf you’ve added lights, radios, a winch, an air compressor, or a power bank to your truck, this is the episode that keeps you from cooking your wiring harness and learning the hard way.This isn’t about being fancy.It’s about keeping your rig running and not turning it into a rolling campfire

What's the best differential for overlanding? In this episode Aaron and Nick discuss that and take a deep dive into how both work, their ups, and their downs. The Podcast also starts a new series, the DOOM SCROLL where we show off the best, worst, and WTF of FB marketplace.

In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we sit down with Max Foltz of MBM Fab to talk fabrication, questionable project vehicles, and why a 2000 Kia Sportage rally build might be one of the most unhinged but well thought out rigs we’ve ever featured.We cover:How MBM Fab started and why Max builds everything himselfThe origin story of the Kia Sportage “Desert Rat” Gambler buildFabrication philosophy: sliders, bumpers, TIG welding, roll cages, and why OEM cross-compatibility mattersMax’s GMC Sierra 2500 HD flatbed camper build and Aussie-inspired design choicesOverlanding vs car camping and why the argument misses the pointReal talk on 24-hour rallies, fatigue, seat choice, and vehicle prepFavorite builds, worst ideas, and why projects always snowballWinter storm prep, power outages, and cold-weather lessons learned the hard wayThe debut of a new segment: The Doom Scroll (Marketplace finds that should not exist)This one’s heavy on shop talk, light on polish, and full of the kind of stories that only happen when you build weird stuff, drive it hard, and live with the consequences.👉 Follow MBM Fab for custom fabrication, off-road builds, and no-nonsense metal work👉 Subscribe to CAMO Convoy for overlanding, off-road culture, fabrication, and bad ideas with good people

In this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, hosts Nick and Aaron dive into their recent winter camping trip to the Appalachian Mountains, specifically the Mothman trip. They recount the unpredictable weather, which ranged from rain to snow, and the challenges they faced while camping at high elevations. The conversation highlights the importance of preparation for varying conditions, as well as the camaraderie among the group despite the adverse weather. Nick shares amusing anecdotes about their camping experiences, including mishaps with gear and the amusing dynamics of their group, which included a mix of seasoned campers and newcomers.The hosts also discuss the unique features of the Cass Railroad, a highlight of their trip, where they enjoyed a break from the elements and learned about the history of the area. They reflect on the beauty of the Appalachian landscape, the fun of off-roading in the snow, and the overall spirit of adventure that defines their trips. The episode wraps up with a teaser for their next adventure in Michigan, promising more exciting tales to come. In this episode, Nick and Aaron dive into the exciting developments within their community, particularly the transition to Discord for discussions and planning. They emphasize the importance of community engagement and the fun of sharing ambitious project ideas, like potential trips to Michigan. The conversation shifts to personal projects, with Aaron sharing his experience with Camo Express and the acquisition of a new turbo for his vehicle, highlighting the camaraderie and support from fellow enthusiasts. They also discuss the importance of quality parts and the thrill of building and modifying vehicles, reflecting on their own experiences and the evolution of car culture over the years.As the episode progresses, the duo shares practical tips for outdoor adventures, including how to pack for varying weather conditions and the importance of maintaining gear. They emphasize the need for flexibility and preparation when camping, especially in unpredictable weather. The conversation wraps up with a tech tip on traction control, discussing when to disable it for off-road driving, and the significance of understanding vehicle dynamics. The episode concludes with a light-hearted Q&A segment, where they share personal anecdotes and insights about vehicle ownership and maintenance, reinforcing the bond between car enthusiasts.

OUR LINKS AND MERCH! https://bio.site/camoconvoyPeople We Like: Nature Reliance SchoolNorth American RescueBlue Ridge OverlandMost overlanders are prepared for vehicle failure, not medical emergencies.In this episode, we break down why being your own rescue is a non negotiable mindset when traveling remotely.Most people spend more time obsessing over roof racks, traction boards, and gear than they do thinking about what happens when someone actually gets hurt in the middle of nowhere.In this episode, we dig into the reality of overlanding medical risk and why every traveler needs to be prepared to be their own rescue. Drawing from firsthand experience on high consequence trails and years of emergency medicine and trauma work, we break down what really goes wrong in the backcountry and what actually matters when help is hours or days away.We cover the difference between Hollywood trauma and real world injuries, why dehydration and poor personal health lead to bad decisions on the trail, and how small problems like cuts, infections, sprains, and heat or cold exposure can quietly turn into serious emergencies if ignored. We also talk about bleeding control, tourniquet use, wound care, environmental exposure, and why training and knowledge matter more than owning the coolest gear.The conversation also dives into solo travel risks, medical disclosure within groups, managing chronic conditions in remote environments, and the importance of communication when cell service disappears. From GMRS radios to satellite communicators, we discuss how to plan exits, call it early when things start stacking up, and avoid letting ego put you or your group in danger.This episode is not about fear. It’s about responsibility. If you travel off pavement, you owe it to yourself and the people with you to be medically prepared, mentally aware, and honest about your limits.Be your own rescue.

OUR LINKS: https://bio.site/camoconvoyIn this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, we sit down with Sapan, president of the Mid Atlantic Rivian Club and former Land Rover mechanical engineer, to talk about overlanding with an electric vehicle.We dig into what actually works, what does not, and how the Rivian platform changes the overland experience. From adjustable suspension and camp mode to real world trail use, charging concerns, and community building, this is not a press release episode. It is a reality check.We cover:• What got Sapan into overlanding• Why he chose a Rivian over traditional platforms• Real off road capability and suspension tech• Camp mode and trail usability• EV limitations nobody wants to talk about• How the Rivian community is shaping modern overlandingThis episode is for anyone curious about EVs, skeptical of them, or already running one off pavement.CAMO Convoy Podcast is about real experience, not Instagram builds.

SummaryIn this conversation, Nick and Aaron discuss various aspects of work-life balance, personal projects, and the essentials of building the best overland vehicle. They share insights on navigating work challenges, the importance of understanding vehicle capabilities, and the significance of quality modifications. The discussion also touches on recent automotive news, including Toyota's innovations, and the ongoing debate between manual and automatic transmissions in the context of overlanding. In this conversation, Aaron Mizell and Nick discuss various aspects of overlanding, focusing on vehicle modifications, the importance of throttle response, and the evolution of vehicle design. They emphasize the significance of driver skill, maintenance, and the lessons learned from their experiences on the road. The discussion also covers the best factory overlanders, the importance of lighting, and practical tips for modifications, including the use of wheel spacers and skid plates.

In this conversation, Nick and Aaron discuss various work challenges, including scheduling issues and job frustrations. They share personal stories and experiences related to their work and vehicle modifications. The discussion also touches on the history of Camo Central Appalachian Mountain Overland, notable encounters, and the importance of documenting their journey. The conversation highlights the connection between personal experiences and the broader community, emphasizing the excitement and uncertainty of future plans. In this engaging conversation, Nick and Aaron share their experiences and adventures in off-roading, discussing the sense of freedom it brings, the community it fosters, and the challenges faced along the way. They reflect on memorable trips, the importance of preparation, and the joy of exploration, all while highlighting the camaraderie that develops among off-road enthusiasts. The discussion also touches on personal growth through these adventures and the thrill of long-distance driving. In this segment, Aaron Mizell shares his journey from childhood through high school and into the automotive world, highlighting the challenges he faced, the mentors who influenced him, and his passion for mechanics and racing. He discusses his early interests in cars, the impact of family dynamics, and the importance of hands-on learning experiences. Aaron reflects on his education, the SkillsUSA competition that led him to meet his wife, and his time in North Carolina pursuing a career in NASCAR. He also addresses the challenges of finding his place in the automotive industry and the valuable lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, Aaron Mizell shares his journey through various career transitions, reflecting on the challenges he faced and the physical toll of his work. He discusses his desire for a management role and the importance of mentorship. The conversation also delves into personal challenges, including potential ADHD, and how childhood experiences shaped their perspectives. The discussion shifts to the off-roading scene in Pennsylvania, highlighting the difficulties in finding accessible trails and the need for community involvement. Finally, they offer advice for newcomers to off-roading, emphasizing the importance of getting out and exploring without the pressure of extensive modifications.

In this conversation, Nick and Aaron discuss various work challenges, including scheduling issues and job frustrations. They share personal stories and experiences related to their work and vehicle modifications. The discussion also touches on the history of Camo Central Appalachian Mountain Overland, notable encounters, and the importance of documenting their journey. The conversation highlights the connection between personal experiences and the broader community, emphasizing the excitement and uncertainty of future plans. In this engaging conversation, Nick and Aaron share their experiences and adventures in off-roading, discussing the sense of freedom it brings, the community it fosters, and the challenges faced along the way. They reflect on memorable trips, the importance of preparation, and the joy of exploration, all while highlighting the camaraderie that develops among off-road enthusiasts. The discussion also touches on personal growth through these adventures and the thrill of long-distance driving. In this segment, Aaron Mizell shares his journey from childhood through high school and into the automotive world, highlighting the challenges he faced, the mentors who influenced him, and his passion for mechanics and racing. He discusses his early interests in cars, the impact of family dynamics, and the importance of hands-on learning experiences. Aaron reflects on his education, the SkillsUSA competition that led him to meet his wife, and his time in North Carolina pursuing a career in NASCAR. He also addresses the challenges of finding his place in the automotive industry and the valuable lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, Aaron Mizell shares his journey through various career transitions, reflecting on the challenges he faced and the physical toll of his work. He discusses his desire for a management role and the importance of mentorship. The conversation also delves into personal challenges, including potential ADHD, and how childhood experiences shaped their perspectives. The discussion shifts to the off-roading scene in Pennsylvania, highlighting the difficulties in finding accessible trails and the need for community involvement. Finally, they offer advice for newcomers to off-roading, emphasizing the importance of getting out and exploring without the pressure of extensive modifications.

ALL OUR STUFF, Merch, Links, Discord, etc! -->bio.site/camoconvoyIn this episode of the Camo Convoy Podcast, hosts Nick and Aaron welcome Chad Kulig, General Manager of All Dogs Off Road, to discuss the unique co-op business model of their company, the intricacies of off-roading and overlanding, and the importance of community in the automotive enthusiast space. They delve into Aaron's Tacoma build journey, the innovations in suspension technology, and the trends in overlanding modifications. The conversation also touches on the challenges of the off-road community, the significance of budgeting for modifications, and the future plans for All Dogs Off Road. In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of off-roading and overlanding, including the costs associated with custom armor, dream vehicle builds, and the importance of mentorship in the community. They share personal experiences and lessons learned from their journeys, emphasizing the significance of cooking and community during camping trips. The discussion also touches on the worst factory four-wheel drives and tires, essential tools for off-roading, and valuable tech tips for vehicle maintenance.

Looking for the best Overland gifts under 200 dollars that aren’t junk? In this episode of the CAMO Convoy Podcast, Aaron and Nick break down the gear we actually use, trust, and would buy again. If you're shopping for Christmas or Black Friday — or you are the overlander on the “nice list” — this episode saves you the research.We bounce back and forth with rapid-fire picks, why each item matters on trail, and the small upgrades that make a huge difference. Shorter episode this week to boost retention and reach even more of the CAMO community before next week’s big guest episode.We also reveal CAMO’s January trip:M.O.T.H.M.A.N. — Mid January Overland Test of Human Misery And NumbnessLinks:GIFT LIST UNDER 200Wavian 20L Steel Jerry Canhttps://www.alldogsoffroad.com/wavian-steel-nato-jerry-gas-can-53-gallons-20lCapless Fuel System Emergency Funnels (2 Pack)https://amzn.to/4o5eVXNHarbor Freight 20V Ultra Torque 1/2" Impact Driverhttps://www.harborfreight.com/20v-brushless-cordless-12-in-ultra-torque-impact-wrench-with-friction-ring-tool-only-58887.htmlDifferential Breather Relocation Kits (Search by vehicle)Google: “Differential Breather Relocation Kit + year make model”ARB Tire Kit Bundle (Deflator + Repair Kit + Digital Chuck)https://a.co/d/4xxDunEBadlands APEX Snatch Blockhttps://www.harborfreight.com/apex-30-ton-snatch-block-57674.htmlBadlands Tree Saver Straphttps://www.harborfreight.com/3-in-x-8-ft-tree-saver-strap-62479.htmlBadlands Soft Shackles (x2)https://www.harborfreight.com/7800-lb-capacity-apex-soft-shackle-58268.htmlBadlands Bow Shacklehttps://www.harborfreight.com/9-000-lb-capacity-d-ring-bow-shackle-62785.htmlAARON’S PICKSBluetooth OBD2 Scanner (2 Pack)https://amzn.to/49KkQhBStainless Mesh Packable Fire Pithttps://amzn.to/4r8IR8aRear Chase Light Barhttps://amzn.to/3JVlpumBluetooth Diesel Heater (Hcalory / Vevor style)https://amzn.to/4nZymRTRadiator Washout Wandhttps://amzn.to/3KdsAOuMERCH: camoutdoors.printify.me

In this episode, Aaron and Nick discuss how to safely navigate Appalachian Winters

In this episode, the boys discuss tire choice and the do's, don'ts and things to watch out for when picking a tire for your truck or SUV.CAMO SWAG: https://camoutdoors.printify.me

In this Episode, The CAMO boys walk back the 24 Hours of Appalachia Finals in Kentucky. Nick and Aaron do some Q&A, and Aaron gives a tech tip:FIND OUR MERCH HERE! https://camoutdoors.printify.me/

In this episode of the Camo Convoy podcast, hosts Aaron and Nick, along with guest Matt, discuss their recent trip to Kentucky. They share their experiences, expectations, and the challenges they faced while off-roading. The conversation delves into vehicle performance, mechanical issues, and the importance of proper preparation for such adventures. They also touch on modifications, tire choices, and the overall enjoyment of the trip, emphasizing the camaraderie and safety felt throughout the journey. In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss various aspects of off-roading, including tire pressure management, camping experiences, scenic views, and the challenges faced during their adventures. They share insights on vehicle performance, predictions for an upcoming 24-hour finale, and the importance of group dynamics in off-roading trips. Additionally, they touch on photography and storytelling in the off-roading community, as well as practical tips for brake maintenance. The conversation highlights the camaraderie and excitement of off-roading while providing valuable insights for enthusiasts.

KeywordsKentucky trip, off-road, photography, winching, recovery techniques, spotting, communication, kinetic ropes, recovery points, vehicle safety, off-roading, winch recovery, safety, synthetic rope, steel cable, snatch blocks, water crossings, vehicle recovery, outdoor adventure, off-road equipment, off-roading, recovery gear, safety tips, water crossings, solo exploration, winching techniques, outdoor adventure, vehicle recovery, off-road safety, adventure preparednessTakeawaysUsing a trip to build a photography portfolio is a great idea.Communication is key when planning a group trip.Spotters are essential for safe off-roading.Kinetic ropes can be dangerous if misused.Always use rated recovery points for safety.Avoid using unibody vehicles for heavy recoveries.Spectators can slow down the recovery process.Planning ahead can prevent getting stuck.Understanding vehicle dynamics is crucial for recovery.Safety should always come first in off-roading. Don't buy cheap structural components for off-roading.Winch recovery requires careful planning and communication.Safety is paramount during winching operations.Steel cable has advantages over synthetic rope in durability.Always maintain tension on winch cables to prevent bird nesting.Understand the duty cycle of your winch to avoid overheating.Snatch blocks can double your pulling power effectively.Water crossings require careful assessment of conditions.Differential breathers should be upgraded for water crossings.Proper equipment maintenance is crucial for safe off-roading. Always assess visible obstacles before proceeding.Muddy water can indicate dangerous conditions.Solo exploration can be safe if precautions are taken.Communicate your plans to someone before going out alone.Keep your window open and seatbelt off during water crossings.Recovery gear should be inspected regularly.Unique recovery techniques can be effective in tricky situations.A multi-tool is essential for off-road adventures.Don't rely solely on winches for towing.Salt can severely damage your vehicle's components.SummaryIn this conversation, Nick and Aaron discuss their upcoming trip to Kentucky, focusing on the importance of planning, photography, and safety in off-roading. They delve into the significance of having spotters, effective communication, and the use of recovery techniques and equipment, including kinetic ropes and recovery points. The discussion emphasizes the need for safety and preparation to ensure a successful and enjoyable off-road experience. In this conversation, Aaron Mizell and Nick discuss essential safety practices and techniques for off-roading, focusing on winch recovery, the pros and cons of different winch types, and the importance of proper equipment maintenance. They emphasize the need for careful planning during recovery operations, especially in challenging conditions like water crossings. The discussion also covers the significance of understanding winch specifications and the effective use of snatch blocks to enhance recovery efforts. In this conversation, Aaron Mizell and Nick discuss various aspects of off-roading, focusing on safety, recovery techniques, and the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations. They share personal experiences and insights on navigating obstacles, the risks of solo exploration, and the essential gear needed for recovery. The discussion emphasizes the significance of safety precautions, especially when crossing water, and the necessity of inspecting and maintaining recovery equipment. They also touch on unique recovery methods and the importance of understanding winch limitations.

In this episode, Nick talks about why keeping it simple as a new hobbiest in the overland world will be a much more enjoyable experience for you.