How a Pandemic Backpacking Trip Started Trekker Joe’s | Robin Williams

When the world shut down during the pandemic, Robin Williams found herself searching for a way to get outside and move again. What started as a simple backpacking trip to Lost Maples in Texas quickly turned into something much bigger.In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie talks with Robin Williams from Trekker Joe’s, a small family-run business creating handcrafted backpacking gear designed by hikers, for hikers.Robin shares how a heavy first backpacking trip sparked their journey into lightweight gear design, how their family business grew from a few handmade products on Etsy, and what it’s really like building an outdoor brand while balancing work, family, and life.They also talk about lessons learned from the trail, solo hiking safety, and why sometimes the best ideas come from simply getting outside and trying something new.Whether you're a hiker, small business owner, or someone dreaming about turning an outdoor passion into a project, this episode offers inspiration from the trail.In This Episode• How a pandemic backpacking trip sparked the idea for Trekker Joe’s • Lessons learned from their first backpacking trip at Lost Maples • Designing lightweight handcrafted backpacking gear • Building a small family-run outdoor business • The challenges of running a side business while working full-time • Solo hiking tips and safety advice for women hikers • Why keeping gear light matters on the trail and in businessAbout Robin WilliamsRobin Williams and her husband Joe run Trekker Joe’s, a small family business creating handcrafted ultralight backpacking gear. Their products include water bottle sleeves, fanny packs, zipper pouches, wallets, and dry bags designed to make life on the trail simpler and lighter.Learn MoreTrekker Joe’s Gear https://trekkerjoes.orgJust Hyke https://justhyke.comConnect with the Just Hyke PodcastSubscribe so you don’t miss future episodes featuring hikers, trail leaders, outdoor entrepreneurs, and stories from the trail.Every step you take no matter how small is part of your journey from Sidewalk to Summit.