The Wellness Puzzle Podcast

Take less, do more

Episode Summary

In episode 279, I speak with author, speaker and ultralight backpacker, Glen Van Peski. He is widely recognized by the trail name “Legend” for his legendary contributions to the backpacking community. A native Californian with a childhood rooted in the western outdoors, Glen’s journey into backpacking began when his oldest son joined Scouts, and he led the Troop’s backpacking program. Through those experiences, he became intrigued by lightweight backpacking and started sewing his gear. In 1998, he founded Gossamer Gear, a company dedicated to manufacturing ultralight backpacking equipment. Over the years, Glen and his company have been featured in Backpacker, Outside, and National Geographic Adventure magazines, and The New York Times. This is an inspiring podcast, not to be missed

Episode Notes

Guest: Glen Van Peski – Ultralight Pioneer, Founder of Gossamer Gear, Engineer, Speaker & Author

Title: "Take Less. Do More": Lessons in Living Lightly with Glen Van Peski

Episode Summary:
In this illuminating episode of The Wellness Puzzle Podcast, I sit down with Glen Van Peski, founder of Gossamer Gear and author of Take Less. Do More., to explore how the principles of ultralight backpacking can inspire a richer, more intentional life. Glen shares compelling stories from the trail and reveals how generosity, gratitude, and curiosity have shaped his unconventional journey from engineer to minimalist gear innovator and thought leader.

Whether you're a hiker, high achiever, or simply seeking to unburden your life—physically, emotionally, or mentally—Glen’s insights offer a refreshing guide to living with purpose, passion, and lightness.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Glen’s path from engineer to outdoor gear pioneer unfolded
• The origins and philosophy behind ultralight backpacking
• Why "taking less" can lead to doing—and being—so much more
• Life lessons in letting go, showing up, and staying curious
• How to apply minimalist principles to your journey
• The surprising power of gratitude and generosity in leadership and daily life

Guest Bio:
Glen Van Peski is a lifelong innovator, engineer, and founder of Gossamer Gear, a company that revolutionized backpacking with its ultralight ethos. He is a sought-after speaker and the author of Take Less. Do More.: Surprising Life Lessons in Generosity, Gratitude and Curiosity from an Ultralight Backpacker. Glen’s passion for simplifying not just gear—but life itself—has inspired thousands to rethink what they carry, both on the trail and off.

To find out more about Glen, Click Here

My website is www.andrewjobling.com.au