BONUS - Overland EXPO PNW 2026, Redmond

[00:00:10] Hello and welcome to another bonus episode from the Subie & You Podcast. This one is coming from my trip out to Overland EXPO PNW 2026. And as you can see, this is a really long episode, but there's a lot of really great conversations and I mixed in some fun stuff in the middle, which you will find out whenever we get there or whenever you get there. But I encourage you to listen to it all at once or break it up in pieces. It doesn't matter.

[00:00:35] But I had a lot of fun with these interviews and I was extremely thankful for Subaru bringing me out to do this. So yeah, it's a long one, but it's a good one. The majority of the conversations are with people that were at Subaru Basecamp. I recorded a lot of them there at Subaru Basecamp. I also did some over at the Subaru booth. I did one with Benjamin who goes by BMC Adventures because his car was in the booth and I wanted to record in front of his car.

[00:01:01] I actually had another conversation with a guy named Mike who just happened to be visiting Overland EXPO. He wasn't a camper, but he was coming through the booth and we just kind of bumped into each other, started talking. Turns out he's from Dallas and he actually drove out. Not in his own Subaru, but he did drive out to Overland EXPO PNW, which is crazy. He did say he is going to drive his Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness though to Overland EXPO Colorado. So I think that's pretty cool. But I got a conversation with that guy as well.

[00:01:28] But I want to give a huge shout out to Subaru of America, first of all, for putting this together. Thank you to everybody. Subaru of America, Rune Management, G7, and also to Emily, our camp host. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday dear family.

[00:02:02] So Emily's birthday was two days after that particular day of the event. So everybody wanted to sing happy birthday to her because her birthday was going to be in two days. So that is why I included that. They all did such an amazing job. And then there's also a whole team of people that have to pack all this stuff up into a trailer and then unpack it when they get to the next event, put it all together, and then take it back down again. And then just up, down, up, down for all these events.

[00:02:29] And it's a lot of work. If you've been there, you've seen the structures, you know that it's a big deal. And these, everything looks so amazing. And then of course, Subaru Base Camp was just elevated by like a thousand percent from last year. And it was just such an incredible experience, not just for me, but for everybody that was there. All the people that I was talking to, so many people expressed many, many thanks for even being there in the first place and being invited out.

[00:02:57] So that is what, I ended up asking people about their cars, of course, and just like not talk about their Subarus and there's a little bit about their Subaru journey. But the majority of the conversations were asking them like what their impressions were of Subaru Base Camp, what their impressions were of the booth at Overland Expo, and then of course Overland Expo itself. But that was what I was there to talk to these people about. And it was just, again, it's so great having these conversations.

[00:03:26] You know that most of the time I'm recording from in my closet in Houston. So to be able to go out to these events and meet people in person, like really, really means a lot to me. And because I don't get a chance to do that very often. So thank you so much, Joe, for bringing me out to do this. It really, really means a lot. I'm extremely thankful and grateful, and I feel very, very blessed to be able to do this. Make some noise for Joe, everybody. Yay! Yay!

[00:03:57] Before we get into these conversations, of course I have to give a huge shout out to Subaru Gear. Subarugear.com. Go check it out. Browse the site. Check out all the merchandise that they have. There's beanies, hoodies, even though it's not that cold now. But then there's t-shirts. There's refillable water bottles so that everybody can stay hydrated when you're going out there and adventuring. There are coffee mugs that you can use when you're out there camping. And then, of course, backpacks, coolers that you can use to take your drinks in and keep them cold.

[00:04:26] But yeah, go browse the site. There's so many great things there. You can also save 20% by using the code SUBINU2026 at checkout to get 20% off a single item or your entire purchase. I highly recommend that you fill up your cart because if your total is over $50 after the 20% discount, you'll automatically get free shipping and that is such a great benefit.

[00:04:52] So I really appreciate Subaru Gear for working with me, sponsoring the podcast, and bringing this great offer to everybody. So now that that's out of the way, we're going to go ahead and get into these conversations that I had with people from Overland Expo, PNW2026. Again, many of them at Subaru Base Camp, a couple of them at the Subaru booth at the Expo. So here we go.

[00:05:26] We asked this question on the phone yesterday, but I want to get it official here, whether you prefer waffles or pancakes. 100% I am a pancake girl. Yes. I love them best. Take that, Sierra. And ice cream. Yeah, there you go. Yeah. Handcakes every day. That's right. All right. So we're over here. We're going to have a little conversation about Subaru stuff and about Subaru Base Camp because we'll get into that in a little bit, but other people over there are watching soccer. Yeah. But yeah. So I am standing here with Melissa.

[00:05:56] How's it going? Good. How are you? I'm doing good. So apparently this whole thing is sort of your fault. Kind of, but not all. Yeah. No, no. Well, I think the, uh, it kind of started with you and then it led to all of this, which is amazing. So let us, well, first of all, let us know what you drive and then like how long you've been a Subaru owner, like how many Subarus you've owned. Oh boy. How much time do we have? I don't know.

[00:06:22] Uh, so I currently drive a lifted 23 Subaru Outback. Okay. Um, I own five Subarus right now though, between my husband and my kid. Uh, this is, we've owned 10 altogether. Nice. Um, we race rally cross with Northwest Rally Association. So we have a 2004 2.5 RS sedan. It's kind of a, a piece of junk. Um, uh, but it's intended to crash and, you know, hit cones and all that stuff. Of course.

[00:06:52] Uh, and then we have, uh, primitive racings, old rally cross car, um, that blew, uh, as a donor car. That's cool. But we're rebuilding it to be an auto cross car. Okay. Um, uh, primitive sponsored me since I bought my Outback two years ago. Um, so I, I have their lift and everything on my car and their skids. They're good people over there. Yes. I love primitive. I have a lot of ADF stuff on my car, um, as well. Patrick is amazing. So as you know. Yeah, yeah. Definitely. So yeah.

[00:07:21] And then we have a rebuilt 2005 Forcer XT. Um, basically an STI. It's got forged rods and pistons, a type RA block. Uh, did all of it in our living room. My husband. Yeah. We don't have a garage. So I came home and I found the engine on my custom coffee table and I was like, what are you doing? And he's like, I put a towel down. Um, got to do it somewhere. So yeah. So I got those cars. My first Subaru was actually a 2019 Subaru Ascent and I lifted it and I was a part of a local, um, Subaru group, but they only did pavement stuff.

[00:07:52] Oh. And I always wanted to do off-roading. So I reached out to the, yes. So I reached out to, um, the other people that ran the group cause they had me help run like almost immediately. Um, and I was like, Hey, can we do an off-road thing? And they're like, well, I don't know if there's interest. Let's see. So I put it together. We were going to do section two of the BDR, uh, the Washington BDR. And I think we had 23 cars show up for it. Yes. People were interested. People were interested.

[00:08:21] Let's do this. Come on. We did have one that shouldn't have been on the trail. He made it most of the way. Uh, there's always somebody with a lower car that wants to see how far they can go. Um, but that trip will probably forever stick in my memory. Uh, so I had that and then we were like, Hey, let's make an off-road group. So me and I think there's six of us now we run to be adventure club. Um, and we kind of spanned across multiple states.

[00:08:47] So, but I would, this came about because I had done a, um, ladies only trip. I wanted to empower women to get out there with their Subarus and what is typically a male dominated kind of area. How long ago was that? Um, so this was the last right before, right before the last big Northwest. So like three years ago or so. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I'm a little over that. Um, so I had just done that group and or run with a friend who helped me run it.

[00:09:15] And I want to say there was like eight or so, um, women who showed up all of us strangers who trusted us to take them up in the mountains and show them how they can drive their cars, what their cars are capable of, what they're capable of. We had a flat tire up on the trail over a pit and everything. We had to change it. We showed them how to do it. Um, and it was just a really good three days. So then I go to big Northwest and my friend, Justin Nimmo, um, introduces me to Sean Conklin here with Subaru of America. Yep.

[00:09:44] And that's how this got started. So I met Sean. He entered me in some drawings Subaru was doing, um, for telling him about the ladies trip and I won. I just, I didn't know that I won anything and I got a thing saying, congrats you won. And I'm like, for what? Yeah. What did I win? And then, um, Sean reached out to me and he said, Hey, we want to do the Overland Expo. Subaru has never done an Overland Expo, but they're kind of on the fence with it. So we're going to do this as an ambassador program.

[00:10:13] And if it goes well and we can show Subaru that this is wanted, you know, and that this is a thing, which clearly it is. He goes, let's see what we can do. He said, call three friends and make it happen. So I called a couple of friends. Um, one of them's here right now, Dan ring, um, again, uh, and we showed up and our site was literally three outbacks bumper to bumper. I couldn't even open my passenger side doors because the sprinter van next to me was so close.

[00:10:43] Um, our little pop-up tent was all the space we had that was free, not taken up by cars. So what did y'all display? Like, or did y'all just... Our cars were bumper to bumper in like a half a box and we sat underneath an awning because it was a hundred degrees and we just had people kind of wee between our chairs to look at our cars. Um, and Troy had his, uh, little, um, Overland trailer with his outbacks. So it was three outbacks. Um, our cars were dirty. I had actually just gotten mine.

[00:11:12] So it didn't, mine was the cleanest and the newest. So I didn't have a whole lot of stuff on it yet. I had the lift kit and the skids, but that was about it. And Troy had a busted windshield. Oh my gosh. And it was funny because everybody kept coming to our booth and saying, your cars are used. All these sprinter vans and everything are clean. Everything's clean. Yeah. Clean. And we're like, we are using these cars. Yeah. So real quick, when we had, uh, we had the big event in Houston at one of the, um, dealerships,

[00:11:40] it was Gilman Subaru. And two years in a row, I took my car there muddy. Uh-huh. We're all, because it was, it's more of like a, kind of like a tuner scene there. Yeah. There were some off-road cars, but like, I want to take mine muddy and people are saying the same thing. Oh wow. You actually use your Subaru. I'm like, of course. Yeah. Yeah. We got so many, like just with the three outbacks, we actually had a Forester. My friend Simone came with her Forester, but we couldn't fit it because that's how small of a space that Subaru had that first year for us.

[00:12:10] So she parked her car out front and, you know, obviously just came and sat with us. Uh, but everybody just kept complimenting. You're like, your cars are used and they're like, we have everyday cars, you know, you didn't have to spend a hundred thousand dollars to get these cars and to do these mods that we had on there. They're, you know, the average person couldn't achieve this, you know? And so we got a lot of conversation and then the expo people kept coming back and bugging Joe and Sean, like, how do we get you guys back? How do you get back? So then last year came back again, obviously.

[00:12:40] Um, and they went to all of the ones across the country, like they did again. And I'm just blown away at how big this is. And they leveled it up this year from last year. This is wild. It's yeah. Like, like I said, we're in little tiny spot and now like, well, and not only do you have a big booth over there with a lot of space, factory vehicles, owner vehicles, but then you also have the accessories team there.

[00:13:06] Now you have a little bit bigger space for the adopt a pet area. Yep. And then you have the stage and just the owner lounge. But then this experience, like Subaru base camp is just like, this is where it's at. Yeah. This is in everybody should definitely, you know, when they're here, like take the time and walk around and look at there's so many builds. And that's, what's nice too, is this is within the expo space.

[00:13:34] So it's not like off limits per se, you know, obviously all the cars that are here are by invite only from Subaru of America. Yes. But if you're at the expo, you can come by. I mean, of course people can come by and see the booth, but to come out here and see what Subaru has done for their owners, you know, for their loyal fan base. Yeah. You know, it's amazing. I don't know of another car company.

[00:13:59] I've owned, you know, Fords, Chevys, Dodges, Oldsmobiles, and we've never gotten this, you know, and we have issues. They take care of you. You know, they're, they really understand the value to keeping customers versus constantly having to search for new ones and retaining their customers with quality products. And this event just shows how, how Subaru values us, you know, and because we love our

[00:14:28] Subarus, you know, I mean, Subaru owners are kind of quirky, you know, a little bit different, but I always have a camera. But I mean, you know, we, we are, we're also showing people that you can do a lot with these that a lot of people think you can't do, even if it's completely stock. You know, a lot of people are doing things that they buy it and then they go like meet up with people that have heavily modded vehicles and they're like, oh, I'm not going to be able to do anything. Like, yeah, you can, we'll help you out.

[00:14:56] That's the other thing too, is you're not going to get out on a trail with somebody and then just have to figure it out. Like people are going to be there to like, they're going to tell you like, you really shouldn't go this way, but there's this other path that you can take that would be better for you. And they help you to be, feel comfortable and not like, you know, you're going to be scared and intimidated maybe. But then by, by the end of it, you're like, oh my gosh, I can't believe I did that in a stock Subaru. Yeah. Yeah. So it's so cool.

[00:15:22] I think the Subaru owners are some of the most laid back, like people I know in the car scene, you know, cause the car scene gets a bad rep. But they're most, for the most part, everybody's willing to help everybody and they're willing to, you know, be like, you can do this. Like cheer them on and kind of like, you know, and get them going. My car's got, I call it a baby lift. I got the one and a quarter inch, um, King spring primitive lift. Yeah.

[00:15:50] Um, I was out on the Oregon BDR with Patrick and the wildebeest, which has got a ridiculous lift going through the same stuff. At one point, I won't lie. I literally looked at my husband and I said, why am I following him? We shouldn't be here, but he was already on the other side of the obstacle. And I was like, well, we're going. Yes, we got to do it. So, but you know, you, you don't get left behind and everybody talks you through things and everybody's willing to get out and spot you. And, you know, we're all willing to be like, Hey, I've used this product.

[00:16:18] Um, maybe check the reviews first. Like, you know, cause we're not wanting to see people just go and blow money. And sometimes, you know, it is about the name brand, but other times you can find things that aren't name brand that work just as well. Yeah. And it's nice because like so many different people have done so many different things that there's going to be so many different resources. So many. So like, you're not going to be stuck and not knowing what to do. It's almost like if you go to a restaurant that has a lot of options, you're like, Oh my gosh, what do I order? It's like, what do I get for my Subaru? Yeah. Pick one. Yeah.

[00:16:48] I can't just pick one. Yeah. So, well, yeah. I mean, thank you for like, kind of, I mean, I guess officially and unofficially, you know, getting this started and I mean, they reached out to you and then you put it together or you came out and, and I mean, I'm wondering like how, if it would have been a different story, if all your Subarus were like totally clean and polished, you know? Oh yeah. My husband's Subarus will never see the places I go. Yeah. He has what I call pavement princesses.

[00:17:16] Um, and honestly, like, you know, I appreciate you thanking me, but like if people didn't show up, there wouldn't be anything. Yeah. Like this is because of everybody that's here, not because of me. Well, yeah. And like, even though y'all did the event and everything, I think Subaru still understood that there is a market out there, that there is a fan base, that there is a community and because they wouldn't have had you come in the first place. Yeah. So, and then here we are with this amazing spot.

[00:17:43] So we're, we're on, on point when they were like, Hey, let's test this out. Um, and it's just gotten better. Yes. I mean, look, you got people eating, watching soccer, you got kids running around, um, dogs. And so it doesn't get better. Like what better way to spend a summer weekend? Subaru signs everywhere. This is definitely the Subaru spot. Yes. So you guys can't miss us, but yeah, no, thank you for having me speak on here. Yeah. And thank you for doing it. Okay. All right. So we're here at Overland Expo.

[00:18:14] This is a Overland Expo PNW 2026. And I'm here with Alexandria. How's it going? Doing well. It's been a great expo. It's been awesome to meet all the folks who love Subaru as much as I do. And just really cool seeing all the creative builds and accessories folks have on their cars. Yeah. So what year is your Outback? My Outback is a 2016. Uh, I believe it's the limited trim. I've got the leather and the sunroof, which is pretty sweet. Yeah. But otherwise fairly stock. Okay. Yeah. And how long have you had it?

[00:18:43] I've had it for over two years. Yeah. Okay. And is this your first Subaru or? It's my second. Oh, very nice. What'd you have before that? My first car was an 06 Outback. Okay. Passed on from my mom. So I was technically the second owner, but it always stayed in our family and drove it past 300,000 miles. Wow. Yeah. That's good. Where are you at with this one? I think I just crossed 165. Okay. So we're getting up there, but still going strong. Yeah. That's good.

[00:19:10] So you are here by, I guess, invitation from Subaru as well. I am. So to create some content and capture things. So like, what are some of the things that you've been doing here as far as content creation and what they wanted from you? Totally. Totally. Yeah. I've been doing content for a few years now. And so I feel like finally have my bearings when it comes to events. It can be a little overwhelming feeling like you're going to miss something, right? Yeah. Because there's always so much going on. There's so much going on. So you really can't capture everything.

[00:19:39] But I think I've just been really trying to focus on the community aspects and how just welcoming, family-oriented, community-oriented Subaru is. So folks laughing, dancing, sharing meals together. And there was a lot of that going on yesterday for sure. So much. Yeah. I mean, we even had a dog adoption event. So that was really cool to see Roo Roo, I think is his name, get adopted.

[00:20:02] And just, I think, focusing on the organic moments as they happen has allowed me to be both more present and also more authentic in my shooting. And it's great, too, that you're here as a content creator to capture those things. But you also own a Subaru. So that may not always be the case. Yeah. So, and then you're here camping with everybody. So, like, when you rolled in here, is this your first time to Overland Expo? It's my first time at Pacific Northwest. So I've been to Flagstaff in Colorado and Loveland, but never here. Okay.

[00:20:31] And is this your first time with Subaru at Overland Expo? It is, yeah. Okay. So what did you, like, when you came into base camp, I mean, like, I guess kind of what were you expecting and then what did you get? Yeah. So I came alone just solo. And I think at first I was a little apprehensive, wondering, you know, am I going to make any friends? Like, does everyone already know each other? And obviously a lot of people have traveled to many events. And so a lot of people did know each other.

[00:20:56] But it was no problem at all that I came by myself because immediately I was just welcomed in and connected with folks, camped around me, broke bread, you know, and shared meals from Chad White's kitchen, which was awesome. So good. All the food was incredible. And I think it just made it really easy to connect with folks in a way that I haven't been able to at other expos where I also showed up alone, but was just, like, very disjointed, I guess, from the rest of the community. Yeah.

[00:21:23] And so what do you think of, like, the whole layout here of base camp and what the, you know, all the activities and stuff that they have going on? Awesome. Awesome. I think they did a great job in setting up this as a community space. It made it really welcoming during the day, you know, after exploring Expo to come back and sit down and hang out on the mattresses or hang in the hammocks between meals and just get to meet and know people a little bit better. Yeah. That's great.

[00:21:48] And then it's getting to meet people from Subaru of America, which is really cool, you know, and the people that are organizing this. We've got, you know, Emily, our camp host, which she's been great. And did you end up doing any yoga? I did. I did some yoga yesterday, which was great on my back after a very windy first day where I felt like I was kind of running from stuff. So yoga was a great way to start Saturday. That's good. Yeah. And then what is your kind of takeaway been from this whole experience here at base camp?

[00:22:17] I definitely want to come back. So that's an easy takeaway. I think also just makes me even more proud to be a Subaru owner. I love my car, but it's more of a feeling, I think, than a car, right? Like having this makes me feel connected to other people. And I think this weekend really just solidified that. Yeah. And then like you said, you're kind of apprehensive, you know, about coming here and wondering if people already know each other. Because there are a lot of people that travel around together that do know each other.

[00:22:45] But then they purposefully reach out to just, you know, Subaru owners and then have them come together to meet each other. Because I know that there's a couple of people that ended up meeting here that they found out they live 15 minutes from each other. Yeah. And so, you know, it's these kinds of gatherings and Subaru being purposeful about bringing people together that you can find those connections, you know, that you wouldn't have found otherwise. 100%. Which is super cool. Cool. Yeah.

[00:23:14] I left with a lot more phone numbers in my phone than I thought I would. I've just folks where I'm like, you know, if you're ever down in my area or vice versa, let's go for a hike. Let's get out on the trail. Let's go do something together. Even though I've only known them for a few days now, I'm like, you guys feel like friends. So it's really special. So what are some of the things that you get out and do with your Subaru? Yeah. I mean, I normally have my dog with me. She is actually staying with a friend this weekend, but love to get out on adventures with her.

[00:23:40] I live in Bend, so we're super close to trails and camping, dispersed and otherwise. Yeah. I love to strap my paddleboard on top of my car. I go camping a lot. I have a pretty set up build in here, so that allows me to get out and stay out for even weeks at a time when I really feel like it. Yeah. So I just say it is my base camp for adventure in a way, right? I do everything out of it. Bike, paddle, hike, all the good stuff. Yeah. And Subarus are perfect for that kind of stuff. Totally.

[00:24:09] I mean, I think that's one of the reasons that people end up buying them. And they're great because, you know, it's not anything that you're going to go rock crawling in, but you're going to be able to go explore places that you wouldn't be able to in, you know, like a two-wheel drive car or a lower car. You should see some of the things I get up to. It is borderline rock crawling. A 4x4 sign sounds like a challenge to my Subaru. Yeah. And that's good. That's the thing, too, is a lot of people are like, let's see what this thing can do. Yeah. And then you take it and are pleasantly surprised a lot of times.

[00:24:39] Constantly. Yeah. So as far as, like, the booth over there that Subaru had up, like, what was your impression of that? And, like, what would you say is kind of your favorite thing or aspect over there? Well, I wasn't expecting to get to meet Travis Pastrana's co-driver. Yeah. That's super cool. So that was pretty cool. Rhiannon seems like an exceptional human. She is. And just so many cool stories. And I think especially as a woman, it's really cool to see other incredible women out there doing their thing and taking charge and leading.

[00:25:06] I also just really loved the space that they set up last night. We had kind of like a happy hour and their snacks and refreshments. And it was another good way to just kind of be like, oh, hey, like, I met you when I pulled in that first day. And connect in a way that was different than the mealtimes. So I found myself congregating in smaller groups here. But that was more of a, like, let's all get together and mix and mingle. So I loved having both spaces. And it's also like the party that they had from 3 to 5.

[00:25:35] It's advertised in, like, the whole bulletin, I think. So it's not just for Subaru owners. It's for anybody at the expo to come by and see what we're doing. And I think that gives people an opportunity that maybe didn't make it over to the Subaru booth before to come over and then see the vehicles and be like, oh, these things are pretty nice. The setups are very cool over there. I know they had a couple of models with the Yakima setups in the back and the pull-out drawers. And, again, it's a great opportunity to see what you can really do with these cars.

[00:26:05] Yeah, yeah. And, yeah, you mentioned Riannon earlier. And it's really great, too, because she doesn't just come in here, do her speech, and then leave. Like, she comes in here and hangs out with everybody and tells stories, like you said, and making everybody laugh. And then she had games that she was doing, you know, last night, which was really cool. You know, like WRX or BRZ, you know, lifted or lowered. And that was, you know, really cool. She did that for a while. Yeah. It's just a great experience overall.

[00:26:34] I saw her dancing with a baby at multiple points during the weekend. Not her baby. No, no. But just, yeah, she's just such a great person to be able to do that. Truly. Well, thank you so much for your time and sharing your experience here. Yeah, I appreciate it. I appreciate your time. And it's been great to meet you this weekend. You too. And hope to see you again soon. Yeah. I wish you, you know, well on all your future adventures. Thank you. You're welcome. Thank you. See you out there. Okay. Awesome. Thank you. All right. So I'm standing here with?

[00:27:03] Tracy Getty. Tracy Getty. Nice to meet you. Nice to meet you. Okay. So we were talking yesterday after we, when we got to the lunch spot and I was asking you about your Crosstrek and then I was asking you about your experience here and everything. And this is your first time attending anything with Subaru or any like Subaru community and other people. Correct? That's correct. Yeah. So which, uh, what year is your Crosstrek again? Crosstrek is a 2023. 2023. Okay.

[00:27:30] And you went from something, well, you still have the other vehicle, but you decided to get a Crosstrek. I did. Because you had surgery, you said, and it was easier on your knee and everything. So, uh, so what is your experience been with your Crosstrek so far since you got it? So I was very hesitant to leave my existing vehicle because I loved it so much. I'm like, nothing can be better than what I'm driving because it's been a part of me for 20 plus years. Yeah.

[00:27:59] And I went in kicking and screaming. I don't want another vehicle. And then the second my keister hit that seat, I fell in love. Yeah. That's great. Yeah. And I, then I went, I went feet first. I went all out. Yeah. Cause your Crosstrek is modified and you've done some stuff to it and it looks really good. Thank you. You're welcome. I keep adding to it and I can't wait to see what else I can add to it. Yeah. So what was your experience like yesterday?

[00:28:27] Cause you, I'm guessing got an email invitation from Subaru of America to attend this. I did. And I was ecstatic. I'm like, my vehicle isn't up to par with the pictures that I've seen and it's not as cool as theirs. And it's not as big and beefy. And, but then, yeah. And then next to it, I'm like, just in love. Yeah. Well, I mean, we had some, a few stock, uh, Subarus out there. So, you know, they're very capable even as a stock vehicle, but to go from kicking and

[00:28:56] screaming, I don't want another vehicle. And then being super excited to, as soon as you got into your cross check to then be invited by Subaru of America. Like, how is that going for you? You know, just that realization. Just over the moon. Um, and Subaru as a company, I am learning that they are, uh, just, they, they love the owners. Yes. They love the community. And, um, during the off-road adventure yesterday, I got to use my X mode, which I've never used

[00:29:26] before and absolutely incredible. My other vehicle could, couldn't do that. Could not do that. That's good to hear. So, I mean, I, there's a lot of people that don't really know a whole lot about Subarus a lot of times, and then they get into one and they realize that it's way more capable than they realize. Yeah. My biggest disappointment is that I, I didn't get one sooner. Yeah. I mean, they're, they're great vehicles and, and like, I like that the cross check is small cause that's what I have.

[00:29:55] And it's just, it's so fun and it's very nimble. And even as a small car, like you discovered yesterday, it's very capable. It's absolutely perfect. And I do camp in it as well. So that's right. You had it set up for camping. And it's an extension of my personality. So I hang out with myself a lot, but I'm never alone because I always have my Subaru. Yeah, exactly. Exactly. So like, as far as the off-road adventure and everywhere that we went and lunch and all that, like what was your overall experience with that? Oh, it was fantastic. I can't wait to do it again.

[00:30:25] And I hope to latch onto one of these groups that, that's near me so I can pal around with more Subaru owners. And I think that's, what's really great about Subaru inviting people out to this because there are a lot of like for me and for like Milton and Carrie who led the drive and then just other people that were in their group. A lot of us know that there's a community. We're part of the community. We get together with other people.

[00:30:51] So, you know, we, we have a lot of fun together, but for people like you who didn't realize, didn't kind of realize that there is a whole community out there. It's great for all these people to come together and see one, that there are other people doing what you're doing. There might be people near you that you can get together with that you hadn't have met before. Right. And then to see what Subaru is doing for their community, for their owners. And like, it's just amazing. Well, and it's one thing to hear about it and read about it, but then it's another thing

[00:31:20] to experience it. Yeah. So it's really cool. Like really cool. Yeah. This is like adult summer camp. Exactly. Exactly. That's a good way to put it. It is like, yeah, it's fun. So like, so we did the trail ride yesterday and then we kind of had some free time for ourselves to go do whatever we want to. And then after that, we were meeting up at Subaru Base Camp, which is at the backside, kind of the backside of Overland Expo here and P&W. So going over there and seeing base camp for the first time, what was your impression?

[00:31:50] The setup is incredible. And it's, it's a very fancy. Yeah. Very fancy. I am just, I don't know. I'm just mesmerized and it's, it's over the moon. I mean, it's, it's just absolutely incredible. And I'm telling my friends about what I'm doing and they're really jealous as they should be. Yeah. And like, so for, for me, I was here last year to see what they're doing this year with base camp compared to last year. It's like a huge step up from what they did.

[00:32:21] That's what I heard. So I'm happy that this is my first year. Oh yeah. Yeah. I mean, last year was good too, but what they're doing this year is like, they're just completely elevating the experience. Everything is perfect. Yeah. Absolutely perfect. So we've got all the tables laid out over there. So we've got plenty of room for people to eat. We have professional chefs making food for us, which is amazing. Coffee. Yeah. The coffee this morning. That was so cool. And the yoga this morning. Yeah. So just a really cool experience.

[00:32:49] And like, so what do you, what is your kind of takeaway from this so far? I want to live here. I want to go home. Yeah. Yeah. I haven't even had a chance to walk around and look at any of the exhibits yet. It's so big. I just kind of gravitated right to the Subaru one. Yeah. So it was perfect. Yeah. So like kind of give a recap of your whole experience, your first night of camping over there.

[00:33:13] So first night of camping, did a setup and then walked around and made friends and dinner time and the games and the dogs and the people and everybody's just been awesome. Yeah. Yeah. Just been awesome. And did you have a chance at all to chat with some of the people that are here with Subaru of America? I've already made my two neighbors on each side of me. They're outstanding. Okay. I'm already friends with them. We were already making plans. So when they come up to our neck of the woods, we're going to meet. I met another gal.

[00:33:43] As a matter of fact, she's right there. Oh, we're neighbors. Oh, great. We live 15 minutes away. Are you serious? Yeah. 15 minutes away. That's all. See, this was such a good opportunity. This is why it's such a good opportunity because you can potentially meet people that are close to you that you didn't even know were close to you. And she's part of a group too. So we've already exchanged numbers. So hopefully the next time she does something with her group, I can tag along and see what it's about. Nice. And have you had a chance to talk to some of the representatives from Subaru of America?

[00:34:13] I haven't. Not yet. Okay. Well, I can introduce you to them later. I would love that. Just so I can fangirl. Oh, yeah. We're all incredibly grateful. So it's Joe that has been, this is kind of like his baby per se, you know, of putting this together. So it has been like, we're just constantly thanking Joe. Like, thank you so much. And then he's working with Rune Management. And then the people that set this up is G7, the actual Subaru booth, Rune Management helped with Basecamp.

[00:34:42] So everybody together is like doing such an amazing job. And so it's just, it's been great for us to like be invited out to these things. So I guess, what was I going to say? Oh, so what do you think of the whole Subaru booth here, the way it's set up? It's really neat. Yeah. It's really neat. The photo booth on seed paper is cool. I like, the cool thing too is we rode with him. We rode with her. Nice. Just the other people that were part of it.

[00:35:12] Oh, okay. So it's fun to see. I'm like, I got to ride with that vehicle. Yeah. Yeah. It's super cool. Yeah. It's a really nice setup. I really like it. Yeah. And then they're doing dog adoptions today too, right? Yeah. So what's nice too is like last year for the, oh, I'm sorry. So for the pet adoptions, they had just kind of like a temporary setup. They have like the sign that says Subaru loves pets. But this year they have like the whole enclosure so that it's kind of more of a permanent, you know, enclosure.

[00:35:41] And it just gives people more space to go in there and walk around and play with the puppies and stuff. So yeah, it's been great. But yeah, I am. And people, you know, they end up adopting them and which is really great. That's what they're hoping for. Yeah. If they had, if they did cats, I'd probably end up with a pocket full of cats. I think in Colorado they had cats last year. Yeah. That's great. Yeah. So that was really cute. But so what is your impression of like, so, so you've, you've had your cross check for a while.

[00:36:09] So what is your impression of some of the other factory vehicles that you see in here? They're, they're amazing. I'm really happy with my cross track though, because it suits me perfectly, but I really like to see the other models and what people have done with them. So yeah. And it gives me a lot of ideas of other stuff that I need. It's kind of dangerous in a way to see what other people are doing. Well, it's good though, because I, um, I adventure in a lot of places I probably shouldn't go, but my cross track takes me everywhere I want to go.

[00:36:37] And there's some, um, like emergency things that I really need to carry with me. Okay. So that helps too. So I've already got a working list of things that will, that will help. Yeah. And that's, what's great about coming to these events. Not, I mean, cause like at Overland Expo, you see so many vendors that could potentially have something that you can utilize. But then also, of course, seeing the other Subarus outfitted with certain things where you might be like, Oh, I didn't think about that. Or I didn't know you could do that. Yeah. So it's really great to see that.

[00:37:06] Well, thank you so much for hopping on the mic and chatting with me. Thank you for tracking me down and chit chatting. I love to talk about Subarus and being brand new. It's yeah, no. And that's, what's great. And like, that's, that's part of kind of what we're, what I'm trying to do is like talk to people who haven't had any experience with other Subaru owners like this and get their feedback and stuff. So thank you. I don't know. And I can honestly say, uh, Subaru owners and the Subaru group are a lot more friendly

[00:37:36] than the group that I was a part of before. Like a lot more friendly. Yeah. Yeah. It's, I feel like people that drive Subarus are like respectful and, and we like can admire other people's builds across all different, you know, manufacturers and that, you know, we're just like, cause we, we have respect for what other people are doing. And I feel like, you know, it's not that it doesn't come the other way too, but it seems

[00:38:04] like Subaru is more open to like being friendly with everybody. Yep. Yeah. Absolutely. And that's what's great. Yeah, it is great. So thank you. Thank you. You're welcome. Nice to meet you. You too. Okay. So there's a few conversations I had here where I forgot the little windscreens for my mics. I thought that I left them back at the hotel, but they were actually in the rental car. So I didn't know that and I didn't go back and look for them. So I apologize for the wind blowing across the mics on some of these conversations coming up.

[00:38:34] All right. I'm here with Emily. How's it going? Good. Very good. Nice to meet you. Nice to meet you. Nice to meet you. I like your cross trek. It's awesome. I love her too. And it's like, it's the hatch area is much higher than mine because it's lifted. So it's like weird seeing it up high like this. My legs are dangling. Yeah. Yeah. But, uh, so what kind, what year is your cross trek? 21. 21. Okay. Which is the same as mine. Crystal white pearl gang like that.

[00:39:02] Uh, so, you know, some of the people that are here at base camp, like Milton and Curie and some of the others, but this is your first time doing something like this with Subaru of America. Right. Right.

[00:39:39] Mm-hmm. It's so back and forth, but the view is beautiful once we got up there. So like, what is, what was your experience like yesterday? Like meeting up with everybody and then going on the trail run and stuff and then getting up to the view and all of that. I mean, I would say epic is like the perfect word for all of yesterday. Um, I haven't been on that big of a trail run before. I think the most vehicles I've been on the run with is like 10. Okay. I think we were at 20 yesterday. So that was like a lot.

[00:40:10] Yeah. Um, but I always like watching other people and like their skills and stuff. Cause I learn a lot from other people and the way they drive. Yeah. Um, but yeah, I know we were being responsible and going under 25, but I would have really liked to go faster. So those washboards didn't feel so aggressive. Um, but yeah, it was beautiful. Up there. Yeah. Seeing like the sisters mountains was amazing. Yeah. So yeah, yesterday was a lot of fun. And, uh, and then, so we, we did the trail ride. We went up to the big bowl.

[00:40:38] We saw the sisters mountains and then we came back down and had lunch. Yeah. Milton. Chef Milton. Yeah. Yeah. He didn't cook everything. Yeah. It's really good. But like, so, I mean, what would you like, I guess your overall experience with the whole day yesterday? 10 out of 10. Obviously. Yeah. I like to do, I like trying like more technical stuff. So it was good that there was like pathways to be like, this is the easier side and this is the more difficult side. So I chose the right side off the ground. Yeah.

[00:41:07] Because I want to challenge myself and like improve my skills. And it really wasn't that bad. Uh, and yeah. Cause I mean, you could have done that in a stock cross track, you know, but I, uh, so last year I think we went the easier route, but I believe. Yeah. And then this year I'm like, I'm like, I'm going to take the more difficult route. Yeah. I was surprised when I looked behind me, I was like, Oh, he's doing it. I had to, I'm like, I can't not do it in this. Yeah. Yeah. So, uh, so we did that.

[00:41:36] And then after we had lunch, Milton was like, okay, you're kind of all on your own and then you need to come back to base camp and be here before six. So what was your first impression coming into base camp? Oh, I was like so surprised that I knew there was going to be a lot of Subarus here, but like, I didn't, you don't believe it until you see it kind of thing. So yeah, it's just amazing. Like they thought of everything. I love the picnic tables, the way they're set up. It's like brings everyone together. It's like force connection. Yeah.

[00:42:05] Be together. You guys love cars. Be together. Um, but yeah, it's really, really amazing. Yeah. Cause like they're trying, they're, they're inviting people. I mean, there's, they know that there's people like Milton and Carrie and other people that are in the community that they've done this before, but they're really trying to reach out to the general Subaru public of people that own Subarus that may not know that there's a community that may not know that Subaru does things like this for, for all of us.

[00:42:32] And then bringing those people together to have them meet up and meet each other. Then you get invited to do stuff like this with Subaru of America, which is like super cool. I know. I'm still like pinch me. This is amazing. Yeah. Like it's like, there's not a lot of car brands out there that do things like this for their community, for their, you know, for their owners. And so it's really great. So like, what are your overall thoughts of like the whole setup, you know? Cause we've got a lot of stuff going on here. I like all this. I like that the vehicles are like around the perimeter.

[00:43:00] So everybody is like facing each other. I think that's really amazing. Um, that's different from last year because last year they were just kind of all just, yeah, because they, they didn't have it all set up the way they have it now. Like they're continuing, continuously improving what they're doing with base camp. Yeah. And so I, cause I was here last year and like I said, everybody was just kind of mishmashed together. And then when I, whenever I came up yesterday and I saw people parking and saw them just

[00:43:29] like you said, you've got all of the activities in the middle and the cars around the outside. And I think that's like the perfect setup. Yeah. Well, and then at night everybody was just like sitting around and like we had our little setup, but then people would come over and we're like, yeah, sit down, like hang out, like spread out. Let's do this. Let's hang and talk and geek out on our cars. Cause people have their awnings out. They've got lights under them. And then they have like some areas set up for people like the little campfires with chairs around that. Yeah. And then they have like the little tents with a blow up, um, couches in there and coolers

[00:43:59] with drinks. And it's just so cool how, what they've done. And they had the world cup on last night. I love that it was like, we're going to have this on and everyone can come watch. I think that's just rad. Yeah. Like, Hey, let's, we know this is going on. Come watch it if you want to. Yeah, exactly. And then what about the food? Oh man, the food's really good. Yeah. Yeah. I have to ask them how they cook those potatoes from this morning. Cause they were perfect fried potatoes. Yeah. So, or I'm just going to stand over there and watch and just start writing my notes. So, yeah.

[00:44:28] So that's, it's chef Chad White and that's, that's like his team. Yeah. So the taller guy, his name is Dustin. I talked to him at Overland Expo West in Arizona and he like ran a like five-star restaurant or something like that. So he's like a professional chef and I'm not sure who the other guys are, but they're part of Chad White's team, which is just amazing. But so yeah, the food was really great and I like, so I'm vegan and I like that they make

[00:44:57] accommodations for everybody because I know there's other, like there was some people that were pescetarian that were in line and you know, they don't eat meat, they only eat fish. So they have accommodations for everybody, which I think is really nice because they take it into consideration. Yeah. There's a lot of gluten-free people in there. So. It's, uh, the food is amazing. It is so good. I'm looking forward to dinner. I'm like just going to have my little lunch and then I'm like saving space for dinner. And I were talking about this when we were in Arizona and we were talking about how like,

[00:45:24] you know, usually if you're going camping on your own, you might have like burgers and hot dogs and like eat a lot of the same stuff, you know, while you're at camping. But I mean, yeah, I mean sometimes make people make different things, but traditionally it seems like, you know, you want easier food that's quick to make and they're making something different for us every single day. Yeah. Every breakfast is different. Every dinner is different. Well, in the sauces, they have sauces. Yeah. And they're like, we have three different sauces for you to try. I'm like, I'm in. It's so good. Yeah.

[00:45:54] So it rained a little bit last night, right? Yeah, it was lovely. Oh yeah. I was sleeping. So like I was in the car. It was good. That's good. Yeah. So yeah, I mean, it's just, it's such a nice setup. And then I know you've been over to the Subaru booth. So what were your thoughts on that? Oh, I love it. I mean, that's the first time that I met Milton and Carrie was at an Overland Expo, like they were presenting in SoCal. And so it just brings back memories of me like, hi, I messaged you on the internet and this is me in person. Yeah. Yeah. That's really cool too.

[00:46:23] But yeah, I watched two talks today. So living out of your Subaru and then modifying your Subaru. So the living out of your Subaru, did you learn some stuff with that? Mostly about like how to use maps and whatnot. That's not something that I've done before, but yeah. Oh, nice. Doing like paper maps and digital maps and that kind of stuff. Yeah. That's good. Yeah. So what do you think of like the Subaru booth? Like as far as your thoughts on the way it's laid out? It's so big this year. There's so many cars, so many things to shop for.

[00:46:55] I love the photo booth. I've already utilized the photo booth and their compostable paper that you can plant. Yep. And grow seeds. Yeah. That part's my favorite. Yeah. I know they have seven vehicles in there. That's wild. This year. Yeah. One of them has rock sliders that I'm like, eyeing. And that's the same spot that we had last year. And I really like the way that there's, even though you have seven vehicles, you have the owner lounge and then you have the little stage, you have the accessories, you have the

[00:47:24] pet area. You still have plenty of room to walk around the space, which I think is really great. And it's at like the entrance, which is super cool. You can't miss it. Yeah. So there's, there's some good traffic that comes through there. So I guess your overall experience with, you know, for, with everything so far. I'm happy. I'm so happy. I can't believe I'm here. Like with Subaru. I just, I can't, I can't believe it. So yeah, I'm obsessed with this car. Yeah. Obsessed with this brand. So it's like. Crosstrikes are awesome. Unbelievable to be here. Yeah.

[00:47:54] I love, I mean, I love my Crosstrikes. This is my first Subaru too. Like this is one of many. It's going to be. That's cool. And I like that you have the Patagonias. That's what I have. They, they're really nice tires. And I think they have a really aggressive look. Cause like when you look at them, they're like, oh, they look so cool. But a shout out to Milestar Tires. Yeah. Love you. Good stuff. All right. Well, thanks for hopping on the mic and chatting for a little bit about your experience here. Yeah, of course. Yeah. Happy to chat again.

[00:48:23] Okay. All right. Thanks. All right. Let's do this, Bob. All right. Raphael. Nice to meet you in person, man. Nice to meet you. And to see your Crosstrek, it's, I know people talk about your content and like how you go off road with your car and do kind of crazy stuff, but it's fun to see all that. Yeah. Yeah. We drove all the way from Southern California for the Overland Expo and the Subaru Basecamp Adventure. And we're just happy to be here. Happy to be a part of this with the whole group.

[00:48:52] You know, the, the Sue buggy, she's getting pretty old, but she chugged along on the whole trip. So yeah, I'm proud of her. How many miles do you have on it? It's 160,000 miles now. Okay. I'm catching up to you. I have one 46. Okay. Yeah. What year is yours? 21. 21. Okay. I mean, yours is older. Did you buy it new? No, I bought it used with 20,000 miles on it in 2018. Okay. So you've put about 140 something miles on it. Yes. Nice. Very nice. So what was the drive like from Southern California up here?

[00:49:22] I mean, it's a long drive. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. We, we took about a week to do it. So, yeah, we did pretty much the whole thing in like three hour chunks. Okay. And we did a little bit of overlanding and camping along the whole way. We did one night in a hotel room because it got really hot outside. Yeah. That's, but, um, but yeah, other than that, we camped the whole time. Nice. Nice. So how many miles is it, or did you like track your mileage from where you left to when you got here? Are you having like a rough estimate? Uh, so yeah.

[00:49:50] Um, I think so far we've done about 1300 miles. Oh yeah. That's a good trip. Yeah. You know, I have a CDL. I used to do cross country truck driving. Oh, okay. So driving is just in my nature. It's what I do. And one of the things that I like is it's a manual too. Yes. Manual transmission. Yeah. So fun. How did you find out about overland expo and Subaru base camp and everything like re-invited out? So yeah, actually, uh, Carrie and Milton hit me up and told me about,

[00:50:18] and, um, they're like, we want you to come. So we signed up and got it all figured out. And that's why we're here. Nice. Yeah. So what were your first, cause you've, you've, have you been to overland expo before? So the only other one I've been to was earlier this year at Costa Mesa. Okay. Yeah. Is that their first time ever going to it? It was my first time ever. Okay. Yeah. So rolling into here for, cause like this is different than it was last year. So where were your like first impressions of base camp? Um, awesome. I love it.

[00:50:46] Um, you know, I love all the activities and stuff that have set up for everybody. The food is amazing. Yeah. I mean, the eggs this morning were like, I wanted to go back for seconds. It was so good. Yeah. I mean, we've got professional chefs cooking for us. Yeah. So it's incredible. Yeah. It's just, it's just great to have, you know, the whole subie crew out here, everybody hanging out, you know, especially the PNW crew, you know, we've all been following each other online for years and actually getting to meet everyone

[00:51:12] in person and, you know, see all the rigs in person is just like really made the trip special. Yeah. Yeah. And being, yeah. Being able to meet people in person that you've been following online, I think is one of the best parts of these, you know, adventures and stuff, whether you're doing it through something like this or just, you happen to be traveling through somewhere and you're like, Hey, I'm coming through your area. Let's meet up. Yeah. Super cool. Yeah. Just like you, you know, I saw your content and I was like, dude, there he is. Yeah. Same with you.

[00:51:41] I mean, it's like, it's just so fun to run into people. So like, what would you say is your favorite thing of like the whole base camp here? Um, I mean, as far as like, like my favorite thing about it is honestly just the people, you know, getting to hang out with everybody. But, um, I mean, Subaru did a really good job at, you know, making everybody feel comfortable and welcome and just keeping things fun and exciting. Yeah. So yeah, it's, it's, it's pretty great. And then what do you think about the Subaru Blitz over there?

[00:52:10] Oh, I mean, it's awesome. Getting to see the rigs over there. Like, uh, you know, the, the, the Rebel Rally Forrester Hybrid. Yeah. Like that thing is absolutely gorgeous. So, I mean, they built that thing up so fast. Yeah, I know. Yeah. They did a super quick. And the livery on it looks incredible. Yeah. Yeah. The colors are really nice. And the, uh, see the, the puppy dogs over at the pet adoption. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. We got a, a little doggy bandana for Subi. Oh yeah. I saw that. Yeah. It's super cool. Yeah.

[00:52:39] It's nice that they're like providing things like that for people that, you know, just come by with their puppies and they're giving them water and stuff. So it's just like, I know I've had so many people say that like the booth over there is just so inviting and people are friendly and stuff, you know, and it's just so different compared to the other booths. And it's so big too. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. It's a Subaru goes hard with this stuff. I mean, clearly they put all this together. Yeah. You know? Yeah.

[00:53:06] They've done an amazing job and it's great that they have so much passion for those of us that have so much passion for our cars. Yeah. I mean, it's, it's really great because you don't really see other car companies doing that, you know, like they, they know how much people love their Subarus and they, you know, they, they bring it all back, you know? Yeah. So, and, and, you know, I mean, they're, they're, they're taking recognition of what we're doing with these and like how we like to modify them, which, you know, kind of led to the wilderness

[00:53:36] additions, but yeah. You know, they're, they're taking notes or watching what people are doing and they see how excited we are, but you know, this whole setup too, like people have their awnings out, you know, there's plenty of room for people to do their stuff and then I'm going to go pivot over here, but we've got this little area set up over there where they have like, you know, this, they've got two of those. They've got this one here and the one in the far distance. So these little tent areas where people can just set up and, you know, hang out and

[00:54:05] it's just awesome. And the Subarista. Oh yeah. Yeah. Subarista is so nice. Yeah. I think it's awesome. So, the loyal, but yeah, just all these people coming together because of Subaru, you know, because they, they wanted to help do something for their community and for their loyal owners and, and, you know, that's, it's, it's, it's great to have content creators here too, to show what Subaru is doing for the community to see like, you know, show people like, Hey, Subaru

[00:54:33] of America is showing up for the community and they're doing really great things and, you know, and I have a feeling there's just more to come. Oh yeah, absolutely. Yeah. I think they're just getting started. Yeah. Yeah. And Joe, Joe, Joe is Subaru. He's been doing such a great job, you know, pulling these things together and, and putting these programs together. It's a, it's been great working with him and getting to know him over the past couple of years. Yeah. Great. I actually haven't met him yet. I have to go introduce myself. Yeah. We'll do that. Yeah. And Emily too.

[00:55:03] Emily, the camp host. She is fantastic. Yeah. Just bubble of happy energy. Yeah. She's doing the yoga in the morning. You know, she's just helping set this whole thing up and creating a great experience for everybody. And she's doing all of the events this year, which is super cool. Cause last year she did, I think, I know she did Colorado and she may have done one of the other ones, but they wanted her to come back. Oh, she did Colorado and she did Virginia for sure that I know of. Yeah. She was at Costa Mesa also. Yeah.

[00:55:31] So, so they were like, Hey, we want you to come back and do all of the events this year. So that's been super great for her. Yeah. I'm glad to see that for her. Cause yeah, she's doing a great job. Yeah. Yeah. Cool. Well, thanks for talking with me and thanks for chatting about it. Absolutely, man. Okay. So I'm standing here with Joe and it was easy to remember his name because we've got Joe from Subaru of America. So I always try to make, like do a name association. Like if somebody else that I know that has the same name. So it was great to meet you yesterday out on the trail.

[00:55:59] We were talking some, uh, before we went into the cave, which was really cool experience. Yeah. Um, but this, is this your first time to overland expo? This would be my fourth, but third full weekend. So last year I came for just one day. Okay. Um, and then I came the first two years that they had it here in Redwood. Okay. But last year you were actually invited by Subaru of America and you were only able to come for one day. Yeah. Yeah. I had kids stuff.

[00:56:27] So I just said, Oh, I'll come down Sunday for fun. Yeah. Yeah. And did you, did you come to the base camp that they had or were it, but since you were here just for the day, did you mostly just go to the booth and the expo? Um, both. I came back and saw a couple people that, that I recognized back in the base camp and then kind of meandered around the full expo for a little while. So you saw the base camp last year compared to this year. So like, what were your thoughts rolling up to this, this year?

[00:56:53] Like this is 10 X at least, if not more, what it, what the, what I saw on Sunday last year. Like this, this is, this blows me away. It's so crazy. It's so awesome. And just like all the things and then the people that are putting it on are just amazing and great. And yeah, there's nothing negative about it. Yeah. Yeah. Maybe the wind. Yeah. Yeah. Uh, I mean, we've got professional chefs cooking up food, which is amazing.

[00:57:22] And then I was talking to Emily earlier and she pointed out, she liked that they've got everybody kind of like around in a circle, which last year they were just kind of mishmashed around, you know, but you have all the vehicles around and then all the activities in the middle. And like, it's just the way they have it set up is super cool. Yeah. I'm sure they learned a bunch from, from last year and this year and, you know, made the changes and it seems like they kind of elevated the base camp in general. Oh, a hundred percent.

[00:57:52] And it's just like, it's, it is second to none. It's, it's crazy how cool and how great it is to be here. And it feels, it feels great to be involved and to be able to be here and get the, get the opportunity. So yeah. And be invited out by Seabroove America. You know, it's like, that's, that's really cool. So what was your experience like yesterday going on the trail ride and then going to the cave and all that? Bouncy. Yeah. It was very bouncy and dusty. Some crazy, some crazy washboards and yeah, lots of dust.

[00:58:21] Yeah, no, it was, it was a, it was a ton of fun. Um, that's probably the longest, uh, like trail drive that I've been on, um, in this car at least. And, um, it was, it was a ton of fun just going with everybody and the radio banter and just seeing, you know, getting to the big bowl and everybody's just one by one starting to drive into it and kind of, kind of drive around and be, be a little crazy. So it was, it was a ton of fun.

[00:58:51] And then obviously lunch from, from Milton was outstanding. It was great. That was really good. And I was just, just lots, lots of fun, lots of, lots of good memories. So how did your ascent do on the trails? Cause I've, I've been with somebody that owns an ascent and she and her husband have one and you know, they've got it lifted and they've got some method wheels and, and all-terrain tires and stuff. And so I've seen them like, you know, in, in Texas in a spot that, you know, that seemed to do pretty well.

[00:59:20] So how did yours do yesterday? It did great. I went, I aired down, uh, for the first time. Okay. Uh, to like 20. And yeah, it really did help. And, um, just put, you know, put the gas in and go. And it just, it just goes. I mean, even that big, that hill going up to the, to the cone, I was like, well, we'll see if this, uh, you know, okay. Yeah. There was no way that I've was going to take the, the easier. So I was like, no, we're going to, we're going to make it challenging.

[00:59:49] Well, and you know, everybody said, you know, people are saying all the cars here should be okay. And I've done some shorter hill climbs, um, in this. And so I was like, well, that we're good. Let's just go. Yeah. And it was, it was fun. It was a, it was a fun trip up the, up the hill. And then, um, interesting to kind of drive around the rim and see all those views. It was, it was awesome. Yeah. It was beautiful up there. Uh, so like, what, what, what do you think of the whole Subaru booth over there? That's cool. That's really, really neat.

[01:00:18] Uh, it's, it's cool to see owner cars. That was one thing that really stuck out to me last year too. Yeah. Is seeing owner cars in there and seeing people that, you know, are buying them and modding them and using them. And then that Subaru is actually, you know, showcasing them and having them there and then seeing like the six, the new, uh, Outbacks there. Um, and then getting a little more up and close and close and personal with, uh, Carrie's Forrester. Yeah. Um, that thing is, that thing is great. Yeah.

[01:00:47] So just all, all the stuff, you know, puppies were there and that was heartbreaking to walk away and not have a puppy. Yeah. But, uh, it just, it seems just like, Hey, you're one of us. Come on in and join, join our, join our family, join our area. You want this? Do you want this? And they really just like take care of everybody. More than I think any manufacturer that I've seen, uh, at the expos. Yeah.

[01:01:14] And what's cool too, about like having the owner vehicles in there is like, that says that Subaru supports what people are doing with their Subarus, you know, because they're taking a factory vehicle and building it into something for themselves and something that is purposeful for the things that they love doing. And then it also shows that, you know, Hey, we love these cars. We love modding them. And Subaru says, yeah, we love you too. And we see you. And, uh, it's great for them to have them in there.

[01:01:43] Yeah, absolutely. That's, that's the best thing. It's like, okay, you're, you know, like you said, you're taking the vehicles and you're, you're putting your own spin on them. And we want to support you in doing that. Yeah. Um, and try to, try to help that out. Yeah. So what would you say is your favorite part of the Subaru booth over there? Was your favorite part of the, um, space camp here? And then what was your favorite like part or aspect of yesterday's trail ride?

[01:02:08] Um, I think the favorite part of the booth so far is the class area. I think that's really neat to incorporate that and have those, those kind of small talks for people. Um, base camp so far, I don't know, being able to just hang out and watch the world cup last night. Awesome. Yeah. That was, that was really fun. And I mean, obviously the meals have been, been great. And then the favorite part of the trail ride, I don't know, that was, it was all a ton of

[01:02:38] fun, but I think the climb up to the, the bowl was, was cool. And then just being up there and seeing, seeing people kind of cruising around and having a good time. I was like, uh, I wasn't going to do it, but I'll watch other people do it. Yeah. So like with, um, the way they have everything set up here at base camps. So I was talking to Dan earlier and he's with Rune Management, which they have worked in conjunction with Subaru to set all this up. Yeah. And he was like, we're just getting started.

[01:03:05] So I'm guessing they're going to be doing more stuff, but is there anything here that you saw that you're like, you know, maybe we could do it a little bit differently. Or do you have any ideas of like, I would like to see this at a setup like this next time? Honestly, I can't think of anything. I feel like they knocked that out of the park. Yeah. Like that, you know, Luma brought out the, the, those rocking couches that are really,

[01:03:30] really comfortable and it, there's just like little pockets to hang out in. And then the big, the family sized, you know, dinner tables and the tables in the middle that I think that's a really cool idea to create more community. Um, you know, having the, having the world cup going on right now kind of brought people into, into the little theater area and stuff. So I, I don't think anything that I can see that could be improved at all. No, it's fantastic. It's a, yeah.

[01:03:58] So, I mean, if they are thinking of other things to do, it'll be interesting to see what they do next year. Yeah. You're like, how do you improve on this? You know? Exactly. Exactly. It's like so awesome. You did great. So keep it up. Yeah. I don't think you can increase it, but just make sure that my email stays on the list. Exactly. Yeah. All right. Well, thank you so much, Joe. Absolutely. It was nice meeting you. Thanks for talking. Yeah. And, uh, cool. Enjoy the rest of the event. Thanks. You're welcome. All right. Okay.

[01:04:26] I'm here with my buddy, Sierra again. If you happen to listen to the Zuby and You podcast and hear, you hear me ask the question, do you prefer waffles or pancakes? This is where it came from. So I don't even remember exactly how it got started. I think we were in a discord chat and you happened to ask it or something. I think it was a Patreon episode. Yeah. We were allowed to ask questions to the man behind the pod. And I, of course, posed that question because it's the most important one of all. It is. And so I've been running with it ever since. So thank you.

[01:04:56] All right. So, um, you've been here for a little bit. I saw you earlier. So what is you've, you've been around, you know, I know you're not camping here, but you've been around Subaru base camp. So what are your like first impressions of this layout here? I like this layout. Um, I think it's, it works pretty well, especially over the, over yonder. There's a little like central area with like Carrie's a pop-up and all the cars next to it. And I think it, I really do like this kind of layout. Yeah. It's working out well. It feels inviting.

[01:05:26] It feels comfortable. I guess you could say. Comfortable is a very good word, especially with the new Luno benches that they brought in over there. That's really nice. Excuse me. So I'm sure you've been over to the booth. I know you were at the booth last year, so it's, it's pretty similar setup. So like, what are your thoughts and impressions on the booth? I like the booth this year. Yeah. It's pretty good. It is a little bit different. They've got seven vehicles in there, which is really cool. They have, um, they have Carrie's, uh, Forrester.

[01:05:56] They have, uh, Andy and Mercedes. They have their personal cross track. Then the cross track that they took on the trans America trail. I think that's what it's called. They have the, uh, trail seeker, the electric vehicle. They have a factory Subaru Outback 2026, the, um, wilderness edition. And then, uh, they have Benjamin's BMC adventures. I think that's what it is. Yeah. They have his Outback. So, and then I think one more, but yeah, it's pretty nice. Yes. It's a good setup.

[01:06:26] I want to say congratulations because let people know why I'm congratulating you. You did so. You had a pretty big milestone. So, for those who do not know, I have graduated from my degree program last Thursday. I am now the proud recipient of an Associates of Applied Science and Engineering Technology. Very nice. So, the last week has basically just kind of been, literally the last week since has been kind of a whirlwind. Yeah. Literally.

[01:06:55] Not even, same day after graduating, my parents who were visiting me for my graduation. Mm-hmm. Uh, for those who don't know, they live out of a Mercedes Eco Sprinter van. Super cool. So, and they, they had to be back where I used to live in Tahoe on the 22nd. So, graduation was the 18th.

[01:07:15] So, we literally packed, packed my car up for a camping trip and we drove down to Tahoe literally the same day as graduation. We went Mount Hood to Mount Shasta and then down to Tahoe. Very nice. So, basically this time Monday, I was in my car and I think, I think probably in Oregon at that point. Driving home from California. Nice.

[01:07:42] For an absolute whirlwind four days. And I say whirlwind, not lightly. Like it was a lot of moving and driving in a four day period. I think I covered like 1500 miles. Yeah, that's a good distance. And then I had worked the last three days, which were absolutely hectic. Yeah. But now you're here. And then this trip, which was so last minute. Okay. So, so last minute. You weren't originally planning on coming out? No. So, crazy, crazy thing. When I was in California, I was having an electrical issue with the car.

[01:08:12] Okay. So, normally when I am driving, my car remains at 14 volts every single time. Okay. Rarely drops below that. For whatever reason on this trip, I kept dropping below. I kept dropping to like 12 volts. Okay. Which is not as good. Yeah. Yeah. And I was like, okay. I was kind of on the fence about coming to Overland Expo before that. So then when I had that issue, I was like, okay, maybe I should stay home. Yeah.

[01:08:40] And then that issue magically fixed itself last night. Well, there you go. So I was like, well. Might as well come out. I'm coming to Overland Expo. So literally last night at probably 7.30, I bought my ticket and then woke up at 4.30 this morning. Oh gosh. Not wanting to. Yeah. I wanted to wake. I was planning to wake up at 6, but my body said, no, 4.30 sounds good. All right. So I woke up at 4.30, hit the road by 5.30, and here I am.

[01:09:09] How long does it take you to get here? Four hours. Okay. And then are you going to go back tonight? No. Or are you staying here tonight? I'm camping with friends off. Okay. Awesome. Cool. Well, welcome back. Yeah. And you know a lot of people here too. Yeah. This is my third Overland Expo I've been to every single P&W except for 2024. Could not go because I had too much going on, but here we are. Yeah. Made it to this one. It's a good event. Yeah. We're happy to have you again. Of course. All right.

[01:09:39] I know everybody gets a kick out of me being here. Hey, everybody likes seeing each other, you know? Yeah. And it's cool because I'm coming from Houston, and so I don't get a chance to see a lot of people too often. And we had Sam fly out from Massachusetts. I know. That's super cool. Mad lad over there. I know. We were talking, and he was like, okay, you know what? I'm coming out. And I was like, dude, that's super cool. Yeah. So, yeah. The gang is together. Yeah. All right. Well, thank you. Of course. Always happy to hop on the mic a little bit. Sweet. Cool.

[01:10:08] I'll take the mic back. Okay. So, I'm here with my buddy Sam. We met up last year at Virginia. Yes. Met for the first time. Yes. And since I've had you on the podcast and you've been a patron, thank you so much. Absolutely. And, but besides the people from like Subaru of America, you may have been the person that flew out the furthest. So, we were chatting online. Tell everybody where you flew out from. I flew out from Western Massachusetts.

[01:10:37] I'm telling you, the airport's in Connecticut, but that part of Eastern Connecticut, Western Massachusetts is where I flew out from. Yeah. So, how, did you get a direct flight or? No. No? Okay. Of course. My luck is not that luck. It was a long flight if it was. I had to fly from Hartford to Minneapolis. Okay. Minneapolis to here. Then get a couple out. You rented a car and drove about three hours-ish to Redmond last night. Okay. Cool. Yeah. So, where are you staying overnight? I'm staying at a hotel in Redmond about five minutes away from here.

[01:11:07] Nice. Nice. That's good that you're close. Yes. Yeah. So, it was cool that you decided to come out. I'm sure this is probably your first time coming out to the Overland Expo P&W, right? Yes. Not my first time in Oregon. I did live here for a period of time. Yeah. I remember that. However, my first time at Expo P&W. Okay. And I definitely want to come back next year. Yeah. Awesome. So, coming into Subaru Base Camp here, you've been kind of wandering around and checking things out. Like, what are your first impressions of Base Camp here? Base Camp here is awesome.

[01:11:36] There's a lot more Subarus than we're here at Expo P&W. Yeah. There's a lot of people who really just don't know. I don't know a lot of people here, but everyone's been so talkative and wanting to share stories and let me check out their rigs and their setups. Yeah. Everyone's been so friendly that it's been great. I know because I miss my rigs. I don't have it here. Yeah. I know. Neither do I. I just have a rental car. Yeah. So, but when you were in Overland Expo, Virginia, you had your rig set up there. Not with Subaru, but who did you have it set up with? I had it set up with Overland Expo itself.

[01:12:06] Yep. Overland Expo has a part of it called the Do Yourself Showcase Dispoys. And I applied for my 2015 Super 4th in there and I won. I was given permission to be in the show, have it on display. I had a time where I had to talk to people about my vehicle. But being able to do all that was definitely a pleasure. Yeah. So, thinking of like Overland Expo, Virginia, like that booth compared to this booth, like what are your thoughts of a booth over here at P&W? I think the booth here is awesome.

[01:12:35] I think it's a lot bigger, more stuff to look at, more vehicles. It seems more open. Yeah. In Virginia, I think it felt a little bit more scrambled. But the Overland Expo here seems to have bigger, much larger, more space to spread out. Yeah. I'm enjoying it a lot more. Yeah. What would you say is your favorite part of the booth over there? Getting to look at Carrie's New Forester. Yeah. Yeah. No, it's so awesome. Yeah. Yeah.

[01:13:01] I mean, just the fact that she's taken it, you know, in the Rebel Rally and she's like had it at events, you know, and just gets to experience driving that thing. Not just, you know, not just at events in the Rebel, but like she's been driving it off road, testing it out and really putting it through a lot of tough terrain. And it's just doing amazing. She's been the guide for the new platform. Yeah, definitely. Because I do have a 26th Forest Award and I said we'll be building out in the short time.

[01:13:29] Being able to talk to Milton and talk to Carrie here about what they like, what they don't like, what they've found to work. That's been a great resource. Yeah. Yeah. Very much so. So what would you, I know you're not camping here, but like just looking around, what would you say is your favorite part of like what they've done with base camp here? Just how open it is. Yeah. You don't really, I understand people want to park together, but it seems to be just like wherever you want to park, it's wherever you want to park. Yeah. And have all this seeing all the different types of setups.

[01:13:58] Some people have ground tents, people have hammocks, some people have rooftop tents, people are camping in the back of their vehicle. Just, I love just the diversity of all the arrangements. If you're able to see the different rigs, we have an electric Sotera over there. Yeah. We have a lower BRZ over there. I know. I know. So you get to see the wider, the wide diversity of Subaru owners. I think that's awesome. And there's also a lifted WRX over there too. Yes. Which is really cool. So you've got pretty much everything here. You know, it's just all range.

[01:14:28] And everyone came here for one purpose. Yeah. Everyone's having a great time. That's really all we can ask for. Yeah. That's awesome. And then Subaru of America bringing all these people together is like super cool. It's like so great. I don't think I know of another brand that does that. I know. Another manufacturer that puts their own money out to help host these events. Yeah. Because this is truly special. This is a big deal. Yeah. I mean, and like the base camp compared to like last year is like way elevated. You know, I think every year they keep improving. Every year they keep learning.

[01:14:56] And we're going to keep improving because we keep doing it every year. And it gets better and better. And we're going to be able to come and make some more friends. And I'll fly back out next year and we'll do it all over again. Yeah. I mean, it's just it's a great way to bring people that are like already in the community, but also people that don't really know that there's a community because they're reaching out to just like everyday Subaru owners, you know, that may not have an Instagram account. They may not know that somebody lives 15 minutes away and then they come here and find out that like,

[01:15:25] oh my gosh, you live like really close to me. And now we can get together and hang out. So it's a really good way. It's making friendships. Yeah. And then they have like the long tables that we can commune together and stuff and bring people together. It kind of forces interactions. Absolutely. One of my favorite parts is being able to actually see the rigs I follow on Instagram. Yeah. Absolutely. I just met Fuzzy in the Wild a little bit ago and I see Starscream and Starscream Trouble.

[01:15:49] I want to be able to see these rigs in person is really something really special to me because I'm going to try to talk to the owners before I leave. But just to see these vehicles in person is awesome. Yeah. Yeah. It's a really cool experience. So, well, thank you for hopping on the mic. Absolutely. Thank you for the privilege. Okay. So I'm standing here with Ollie, man. How's it going? That's good. Raphael, how are you doing? Good. Nice to meet you. You as well, man. Chatted a little bit yesterday. You did. Yes.

[01:16:14] And I like came up to you because I saw that you have these awesome Riker wheels. These T-tons. Those T-tons. I have the same ones. That's right. Yeah. I was like, okay, I got to go chat with this dude. Yeah, no, I appreciate it. I appreciate it. Yeah. Thank you. So did you get an invitation from Subaru to come out to this? Yes. Okay. Yes, I did. Yes, it was unexpectedly, but yeah, I just got an email one day that said, hey, this thing is happening, this base camp thing. Yeah.

[01:16:42] And yeah, fill out a survey or whatever, send it back and that was that. Very nice. Yeah. And then now you're here. And then here I am. Yeah. Were you ever expecting anything like that when you bought this Crosstrait? No. No. Never. No. I mean, so I've always been aware of the community that's around Subarus and I've owned Subarus for a number of years. Okay. Nice. So that's not new, but this experience is completely something different. Yeah. Completely unexpected. And what year is your Crosstrait? It's a 2022. Okay. Yeah. Mine's a 21. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.

[01:17:12] Yeah. So you got the 2.5. I did. Yeah. So kind of one of the reasons why I got it, right? Yeah. Because I was like, I have to have the bigger motor. Yeah. I see. And I had to have the manual. I know. Even though it's a two point slope. I know. But I get it though. That's a trade. It's fun. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I do. I miss the stick. Yeah. So we went out yesterday. We hit some trails. We went through a cave. We got in this big giant bowl. We did. You know? Saw the Three Sisters Mountains. Yeah. It was awesome. So first of all, where do you live in relation to the expo? Okay.

[01:17:41] Do you live here in Oregon? No. So we live in Washington. Okay. In the city of Puyallup. Okay. Specifically. All right. It's about an hour or so south of Seattle. Okay. Yeah. And then how long was your drive from there to here? Five hours. Oh, that's not too bad. Five and some change. But yeah. Five hours. Yeah. And then did y'all get here like Wednesday night and camp somewhere or something? Yeah. So we left home late Wednesday night. Okay. Later than we wanted to. Okay. But late. We drove out.

[01:18:09] Got to a hotel the first night on Wednesday night. Gotcha. At 2 a.m. Something like that. So we slept three hours. And then hit the event on Thursday morning. Yeah. You had to meet at 730. Exactly. Oh, my gosh. Exactly. You're like, okay, let's do this. Yeah. Yeah. Committed. Let's make it happen. Yeah. So driving here, you know, getting there really late and having to get up early morning. Like, you know, I'm sure you're tired, you know, but like, was the experience yesterday totally worth the lack of sleep?

[01:18:39] I mean, a thousand percent. It was worth it. Okay. Yeah. Oh, yeah. I mean, kind of knew that that was the excursion we wanted to go on in that drive. And so it was at that point, it was, it was like, come hell or high water. We're going to do it, man. Yeah. Whatever. So lack of sleep and all included. Yeah. It doesn't matter. We'll do it. So you did, you did the, the one we did, but like, and so there was another trail ride that people did. Did you have the option to choose which one you wanted to do? Yes. Okay. Yeah. Okay. Cool.

[01:19:06] I think it was like, I want to say three, if not four options, right? Cause one involved a hike at Smith rock. Yeah. And then there was the other drive, our drive. And then, oh, I guess the fourth option was just coming here. Yes. Yeah. Setting up ahead of time, but okay. Yeah. So we could choose. Gotcha. Yeah. So yeah, so we started off at Smith rock, which was really cool. Yep. And, uh, they provided breakfast for us and then they gave some instructions on what we're going to do for our particular trail ride. And then, then we headed out.

[01:19:33] We, we got out there to the trails where it was really dusty and bumpy and stuff. Yeah. Uh, went to hike to the cave. And then like we said earlier, went and drove to the bowl. Yep. Yep. So like, what was your overall experience with yesterday? I mean, so the whole, the whole day, the whole excursion. It was fantastic. I mean, the destination was great. I mean, you know, the stops along the way and the, the trails that we got to drive on are all great.

[01:19:58] Um, I think the highlight for me was having all of those cars out there, all the Subaru folks out there and everyone just sort of gelling with the day. Right. Yeah. And, and these are folks that, you know, maybe some folks know each other, of course, but not all of us. Right. And just coming out and meeting new folks and getting the thing done. And I think that reinforcement of the Subaru community, right. Yeah. In real time. Yeah. Um, was the highlight. Right.

[01:20:24] Now, like where you live, do you have, do you know other people in your area that have Subarus that you get out with? Or was this your first time like meeting up with a bunch of people going out? Yeah. No, it's a good question. So we're, this was the first excursion of this type for us. Okay. Um, we are newly transplanted from California. So we haven't been in, in Washington for that long. Okay. It's been maybe seven months or so. Oh, wow. So, um, yeah, because of that and moving and such and all that, that brings right.

[01:20:52] We haven't had a chance to get out with local folks yet, even though I do know of some around. So yeah. Yeah. That's the idea going forward. Right. Yeah. Yeah. Getting hooked up. But not just meeting all these people like, you know, that own, own Subarus, but knowing that everybody was invited out by Subaru of America. Right. Like that's, that's super cool. Like it's special. It's, it's great that they're doing this for the community, you know, and for everybody. So, so like yesterday was really cool. It was a long day. It was a lot of fun. And then we roll into base camp.

[01:21:21] So like, what was your first impression of what they've done here at base camp? So again, this is like a lot more than I expected. I mean, I, you know, I figured we'd have a cool place to put our stuff and set our stuff up, but you know, this layout is, is incredible. It's in sort of with the, with the expo, of course, like integrated. Right. Yeah. And that's cool. So we're not out somewhere on the outskirts of the location, but yeah, I think even the

[01:21:48] details as far as how things are set up here, how things look, aesthetics, the whole nine yards, the food, it's, it's, it's just, it's been incredible, right? Like it's a whole lot more than I anticipated. So, yeah. Cause it's like, you know, you're coming into something, but you don't know what, and if you've never seen it before, cause like, this is a lot different than it was last year. This is like way elevated from what they did last year. So you coming into this for the first time like this, it's like, oh yeah, this is pretty cool. Yeah. Yeah.

[01:22:18] For sure. The way that they've set things up. So like, then what about the booth over there at Overland Expo? So the booth is cool. We, um, this is our second expo. Oh, okay. And we did one last year that was the inaugural one in Southern California. Yes. Right. Yeah. Costa Mesa. So we did that one. Okay. We were still living in California times. We just drove South for that. And so we experienced that booth sort of thing there. Yeah. And I haven't been to Costa Mesa. Okay. So I have no idea what that one looks like. Yeah.

[01:22:46] So I would say that this is again, elevated compared to that one, but similar, similar the booth portion of it. So yeah, that's an entirely, you know, different, cool experience, you know, just having things to do there and then the cars on display and everything else. It's yeah, it's great. Yeah. Cause I know they have the owner lounge, which is really nice. So people can come in there and just sit down and, you know, grab a drink, grab a snack. And then you've got the pet adoption area. The accessories is new this year.

[01:23:15] So that's really cool to see all of that. Yep. But like, so for yesterday, um, base camp here and then the booth, like, what would you say is your favorite thing of all three of those experiences so far? Yeah. Um, that's a hard one to pick out, man. When you got a whole bunch of good things, I know I asked tough questions. Well, I mean, look, I think, I think probably the excursion, the drive we did yesterday,

[01:23:43] probably really, I mean, this base camp thing is hard to beat, man, but yeah, you know, I think again, just seeing folks out in their cars and the variety of cars, right. And we're all doing this thing with our vehicles that they were intended to do. They were built to do, they're capable of doing all of that. Right. And so seeing it in action throughout that whole span of varieties of cars is, was awesome. That's a really cool, unique experience for sure. Yep. What would you say your favorite part is about base camp here?

[01:24:14] Ooh. Um, yeah, I think I'm going to fall back on the community aspect. We're all in this little space together. We've got their setups. Everyone's, you know, hanging out, eating and drinking together. Yeah. Um, there are things to do. You can also do nothing and it's still cool, you know? Yeah. Like it's, and, and, and again, it's like a mini car show, right? So you get to walk through and see people's rigs. Right. And, and I mean, how cool is that? You get them all in the same space at the same time. So it's nice. Yeah. And it's such a very relaxing environment.

[01:24:43] You know, it's like you walk out in there, you've got all the areas to sit down. Yeah. You've got little fire pits that you can gather around. Yep. Yep. So when you were here last night, like what were some of the things that you were doing? Oh, we did a lot of just chilling. Yeah. You know, we had, we came off of like three hours of sleep the night before, you know what I mean? So I was like, we're just going to as much chilling as we can do. We'll try to get done. So we just hung out with some folks that we'd met earlier in the day and, um, you know, we had some food obviously at dinner time, but mostly just chill and had conversations

[01:25:12] by the, by the campfire. Yeah. Yeah. And that's what, you know, that's what this is all about is just bringing super owners together to meet each other and, uh, just hang out. And like you said, kind of like a car show, you walk around because everybody's, you know, you're going to have a lot of similarities with builds, but you're also going to have everybody's doing their own thing and things different. Like, you know, you might have the same car or like the same roof rack or you might have the same, you know, tires or wheels or something like that, but everybody's doing things a little bit different. Absolutely.

[01:25:42] Kind of see that variety. Yeah. No, it's a lot of fun. Yeah. It's really, it's good. I'm not, you know, I'm not opposed to stealing a good idea. You know what I mean? Yeah. Oh yeah, absolutely. I mean, and everybody's here to like inspire each other too. And that's, what's cool about the community is like, you have somebody that's maybe doing something and you're like, Oh, how'd you do that? We know what'd you do and you know, what, what did it take you to get to that or whatever. And, and you don't have people going like, Hey, you know, I'm not going to tell you how I did that. Or if it's like, Oh, I really want to do that. They're not going to be like, well, I did this. You can't do it.

[01:26:11] You know, everybody's like so supportive of each other's builds and, and being, being able to like, just share their knowledge and stuff. And that's what's really cool. Yeah. It makes for a good exchange of ideas and stuff. And that's, yeah, that's awesome. So we're just, we're on the first day of Overland Expo. This is the second night of base camp. So we've got a couple of more days here, but you know, it's probably going to be, I mean, so we're doing some other things. So, um, tomorrow night at the booth, we're going to have a party at three o'clock from three to five.

[01:26:41] There's going to be live music at the booth. And then over here at 7 PM, a Luno mattress is going to come over here and do a little demonstration with an outback. They're going to have like a Luno party. I have no idea what they're going to be doing. So I'm excited to see what's going to happen. But they set up all those benches over there, which is cool. Yeah. Like, cause this, they weren't there this morning. And then I came back later on and like, what are these doing? This is super cool. I didn't know they were even doing that. I had no idea. So, so there's more things to come, but like, what do you feel like is going to be your kind

[01:27:10] of biggest takeaway from this experience? Uh, I mean, for me, I really wanted to do like a Subaru led event, you know, forever. I just really, it's always something I wanted to get into if I could be part of it. So having been given this experience, right? Like I, I really, I think my takeaway is like this reinforcement of community that's built around these cars and this brand and, and all of that.

[01:27:39] Like it, you know, it's, I was having this conversation the other night about how it's different, I think with Subaru and that we're all sort of united by this brand and we all drive a different variation of the cars produced by this brand. Yeah. But it's the brand I think that inherently draws people together as opposed to other car clubs or whatever, which are typically centered around a particular vehicle. Right. Yeah. Yeah. You might have a Corvette club, you know, but it's not necessarily a Chevy club. Right. So it's different. Right. That the whole vibe. That's a really good point too. I haven't really thought of it that way. Yeah.

[01:28:07] That's a really interesting point because Subaru, it's all the Subaru. It's all of them. Yeah. Not just like. Oh, it's unique. I mean, of course within it, you have like, you know, like groups on Facebook, like your CrossFit group or an Outback group, because they're all trying to like, this is the particular Subaru that I own and I want to learn like what I can do to modify it, you know? But then like as a whole, like you're saying, it's like everybody comes together with all these different vehicles. Yeah. And that's what's cool. It's really cool. Yeah. So I think that's the, you know, the reinforcement of that community aspect.

[01:28:37] Yeah. That I've always known and always been familiar with for years, just sort of in the flesh, you know? Yeah. Right. Like living and breathing it for a weekend is amazing. Cool. Well, thank you so much for your time. Thank you. I appreciate it. And I'll see you around all weekend. You know it, man. All right. Thank you. And then, uh, shout out to Riker. Shout out to Riker always. Yeah. Always, man. You got the Milestar Patagonia too. We have the exact same setup. I'm telling you, man. Dude, they're awesome. That's the setup. Yeah. They're great. So, yeah, man. Thanks a lot, Rafael. Appreciate it, man. Thank you.

[01:29:07] I said I was going to add some fun bits in here in the middle. So this is what this is. Uh, Rian and Gelsimino was going around Subaru Base Camp talking to the Subaru owners and she was playing a game. I love this game! And it was this thing where it was like, this is what we say in Australia. What do you say in American? As she said. So this is what this whole segment is, was just her. I recorded a lot of these and I wanted to capture them here too because it was just so much fun. She had a lot of fun.

[01:29:36] We had a lot of fun. So, uh, yeah, here we go. We are here at the Subaru Base Camp at the Overland Expo and I'm going to play a little game with these guys. Everyone seems to get confused with Australian versus American words. So let's do some Australian versus American car words and see how we go. You ready? You ready, everyone? Let's go! So if he can't get it, then you guys should start shouting, okay? You ready? Now you do. Now you do that! I'm sure you'll get it. We ready?

[01:30:06] Servo. Servo. Oh. What? It's somewhere we go and we fill up. Gas station. Gas station. Service station, gas station, servo. I think it's like a collection. That's what I'm thinking. That's what I'm thinking. Whose car is that? Anyone's? A whole bunch over there. Is that yours? Yeah. I need a hard one because you're good at this. So they can be like things that relate to like fueling up and things like that too.

[01:30:38] Torch. Torch. Torch. Come on, guys. Flashlight? Flashlight! Yay! You did it! Oil PM is like... I was thinking... Yes! All right, I'm going to pick a hard one. Yes! Okay, where are we going next? Cover your number plate. All right. I just gave away one of my answers. I said number plate.

[01:31:07] Ute. What is a ute? Pickup. Pickup truck. Yeah! Good job! All right. Do you want me to... Is that okay to be seen? Oh, yeah, yeah. It's all over the social media already. Okay, you ready for it? I'm ready. Bitumen. Bitumen! What's bitumen, guys? Yeah, what's bitumen?

[01:31:37] What do we drive on? Pulled by car. Uh, the pavement. Tarmac. Tarmac. The freeway. Tarmac. Tarmac. Asphalt. Asphalt. That's bitumen. That's bitumen. You told me. Trick job! I love this game. Our Australian words are so good. Yeah, that's a weird one. I've never heard that one. I'll show you how it's spelled. Yeah, like a pavement. Piedumen is lava. So you know. Piedumen is lava. So asphalt or bitumen. Okay. Okay, are we ready?

[01:32:07] I think so. Spanner. Wrench. Oh! Oh! Oh, let's go again. Yay! We've maybe got two now. Spanner. Good job! I love the Australian I know. I know from Ronnie Darl. And he says Spanner. Yeah. There you go. Right, who's next? It's all over the place. Oh, okay. It's no secret. Okay, are you ready? I'm ready.

[01:32:37] What is a rim? A wheel. Oh! That one was too easy! That was too easy! Hey, is that three in a row? That is. Oh my gosh. I can't go with that. She didn't get oil pen. I want to say pom. Like sound pom? I'm speaking English. You have to guess what it is. Is it okay if you number plate's on or do you want me to cover it? Cover it because your tags are expired. Ehhh. See if you put children back in. Okay. The Australian word boot is what in American?

[01:33:07] Boot. That is so crazy. I know this one. Come on! I don't want to say tired. Close. Any ideas? Boot. Trunk! Trunk! Trunk! Yes, I went again. I went again. I don't know how hard this is, but anyway. She's lifting it. We'll try it. I'm not sure how hard it is. Okay. Let's see. We'll see how hard it is. Okay. Tow bar. Tow bar.

[01:33:37] Tow bar? Yeah. The hitch? Oh! Good job! Did anyone else know? Yeah. You're kind of guessing, yeah. Hey, I'm so proud that I got you because you're still going to all of them. Yeah, that was confusing because I speak so well. Quickly. Right, who's next? Okay. Do you know how it works?

[01:34:04] I say the Australian version and you say the American version. Okay. We ready? Mm-hmm. Guard. Guard? Guard. What is a guard? Guard? Close. Anyone? What's a guard? Leo? Yeah. Leo will? Darts with F. Fender? Fender! Good job! Window, buy your car. Buy your car. You like that? Yep.

[01:34:35] Hi, Reed. Hey, how are you? It's nice. Are you ready for it? Let's go for it. Let's go for it. This might be easy. We'll see. I'll hope so. Okay. What is the bonnet? That is a hood. Yeah! That was too easy. Good job. What are we doing? Play the game. Okay, what game? We're going to go stand by your car. Okay. Where is your car? Oh, this is it here? Yeah. I'm just interested in what type of game is it?

[01:35:05] Oh, we should go maybe. Where should we go? Hey, this is freaking cool. Thank you. Probably the front. I'm running out of good ones to try and trick him. So you're standing by your car. Okay. Yep, you're standing by your car. Oh, boy. I don't want to. I'm nervous now. Yeah, you should be. Oh, wow. This one will be easy because I'm running out of ones. In Australia, we say petrol. In America, we say... Gas?

[01:35:35] Yeah! What? He's like, that's it? That's all I'm going to do? Yeah, how would you go? You've got easy ones, wouldn't you? Wait, wait, I'll give him some hard ones. Oh, yeah. Lasky nose. Lasky nose. Ask the one I have. You won't get this one. Are you ready for it? I hope so. In Australia, we say sump. Okay. In America, we say... Pottle? No. It's on a car.

[01:36:05] It's on a car? Yeah, it's part of your car. I'm glad I wasn't the only one. We got him! We got him! We got him! We got him! We got him! My brain freeze! Okay, guys, let's help him. What is it? Oil pan! Oh, but there it is. Got you! High five! I was running out of good ones, but that one's a hard one. Did anyone know? Who knew that? Dan, but he didn't. Yeah, you knew it. People would know that one. That one's easy, isn't it?

[01:36:36] Do you think? Probably. Probably easy. That one's easy. That one we've just done. That one's easy. What's an amber plate? License plate. Yep. What's a puncture? Oh! Let's do it. Is this someone's car? I don't know who those cars are. Who hasn't been on video yet? Sean or Mandela. Is it? You haven't been on... Oh! The car's here. Awesome. Oh, let's get it.

[01:37:06] We'll do it. We'll do it. We'll get it wrong. No one knew it. We'll get it wrong. I thought they would. Did you? Yes. It's because you and I race, though, and we use it in racing terms. It's really good. All right. Okay, guys. I'm getting in the middle. All right. We're going to get it wrong. Here we go. Are we ready? Let's do it. Not really. The Australian word we use is puncture. Puncture. Oh. Flat. Flat tire. Well done. Oh, yeah. Good job.

[01:37:36] Well done. I was like, it's going to be hard on that. That was like a hole. Yeah, it's a hole. Yeah, because I'm running out of them. So when you are like... We say windscreen. You guys say windshield. What else have I got written down here? I think I've got through them all. So if I say chuck it in the boot, what does that mean? Throw it in the trunk. And what about if I say pop the bonnet? Pop the hood. And what about if I say grab a 13 mil spanner?

[01:38:06] Well done. It's leaking out of the sump. I'm going to have that one now. Pass me the torch. Give me the flashlight. You're good at this. And then pull into the servo. Gas station. Yay! So now we need to do an intro to it. What should we do on the intro? To this whole game? Yeah. I don't know.

[01:38:36] It's a good idea because this is going on. We're here doing some Australian versus American cowards. Enjoy. Or something you should do. Yeah, there you go. Will you be able to video it? And all of this jumping together. Okay. I thought of one. Yeah, tell me. Oh! Yes! Let's add this. We can add this as a group. Okay. That's new coverage. Is it record? Have I turned it on? Oh wait, no. Hold on. I can edit it, so it's fine. Okay. Okay, guys. I've got another one. What was your name? Robert. Robert, come up with.

[01:39:06] What is corrugations? Corrugations. Yeah! You're really good at this. Okay, are we ready? We're going to now just do some normal everyday general Australia versus American words. Okay. This one's easy. Mate. What's mate? Friend. Friend. Buddy. What's arvo? A-R-V-O. Arvo. Afternoon. What are you doing in the arvo? Afternoon. Brekkie. Breakfast.

[01:39:36] Breakfast. Maccas. Maccas. McDonald's. McDonald's. Esky. What's an esky? A cooler. Good job. A cooler. What is a stubby? A stubby. Maybe we won't do stubby. It's a bottle of beer. What's a snag? A snag. Snag. Put a snag on the barbie. Sausage.

[01:40:06] You're really good. You need to go to Australia. What's a mozzie? Mozzie. Mosquito. I'm impressed. What was tomato sauce? Ketchup. Ketchup. Spaghetti. What is chips? Fries. Fries. Well done, guys. You're all coming to Australia because now you know how to speak Australian. We ain't alive in Australia. It's our own type of English.

[01:40:36] Good job. And you definitely qualify. Well done. Thank you for playing my silly games. Appreciate it. Thanks, guys. How are you guys doing today? Doing pretty good. How are you doing, Raph? Yeah, good. How's this been for you so far? It's been a lot of fun. I haven't actually done too much wandering around. We're just getting to that today. We've been doing some trail runs. Went on one yesterday. Just got back from one a little bit ago today. Nice. Yeah.

[01:41:05] I heard about that. How'd that go? It was good. Didn't get to go exactly where we wanted to go. The trail was closed down, unfortunately. Yeah. You know, we made it. We found another route out there and the trail we were on just kind of vanished into the grassland and you could barely see tire marks anymore for a little while. You start wondering, like, should we be out here? Yeah. It just goes straight back to the highway. And I was like, oh, all right. Okay. That was pretty cool. Yeah. So, how's your doggo been doing? Oh, she's loving life here.

[01:41:35] She's having a great time. She's just, you know, everybody's best friend. Getting up in everybody's business. Yeah. Pretty much so in everyone's business. Getting all the pets. All the lovin'. That's always fun, you know. I mean, Subaru is definitely a place for pets and dogs. Absolutely. They definitely go hand in hand. Yeah. So, how about you? You've been having a good time? Oh, very much so. Yeah. Yeah.

[01:42:25] Yeah. Definitely. Yeah. They put us up well here. It's quite nice. I know. It's nice seeing you guys again. Yeah, man. Seeing Sherman, of course. You know. Always. Happy to have you out. It's been a good time. Yeah. Yeah. Glad to be out here again. For sure. Yeah. Yeah. Sun's starting to come out. Yeah. I know. For the first time today, it's not as windy all of a sudden. We might have a decent evening. Yeah. So, it'll be good. We're getting ready to start with the booth party here with some live music. And it's a good time. Yeah. Yeah. We're looking forward to it.

[01:42:54] Subaru does it right. Heck yeah, they do. So, let's get it started. Let's get to it. Yep. All right. So, we're here at Overland Expo P&W 2026. Why don't you go ahead and introduce yourself for the show? Yep. I'm Mike Cantrell. I'm out of Dallas, Texas. Up here enjoying the Subaru. All the Subaru there is to love. So, it's fantastic. Okay. That's interesting because I'm from Houston. Oh, there you go. Yeah. Yeah. So, did you fly out here specifically for this event? I drove out here. Yeah. Oh, yeah.

[01:43:24] In your cross trek? No, I'm bringing that on the next one to Denver. Okay. I'll be going to Denver and then to Loveland. Okay. Nice. So, having that one out there. And it's just been a blast. I camp out of mine. I have the cross trek wilderness. Okay. Great little fun car to ride in. Yeah. Love the gas mileage. Yeah. I love how easy it is to actually get into things. So, it's a lot of fun. Yeah. Yeah. So, this is also where before we started recording, you said this is your first Subaru. It is. It is. So, what made you decide to get into Subaru?

[01:43:53] I didn't like. So, usually I'm a Toyota Honda type person. Okay. And I didn't like the way now that they started to build out their vehicles. I hate the big computer screen. Yeah. On top of the dash. I don't like that either. Yeah. Everything is built into the Subaru. It's all low profile. Very streamlined. Yeah. Yeah. So, what have your thoughts been so far owning your first Subaru? I'd get another one. Yeah. As a matter of fact, I'll probably upgrade to the Outback at some point. Okay. Yeah. Yeah. I camp out of mine.

[01:44:21] And if you push the seat far forward, I can get six feet of camping space out of the back of mine, front to back. All right. So, I'll camp out of that. I'll put all my gear to the left of the vehicle. Sleep on the right. And it's fantastic. So, what kind of setup do you have for like a mattress and stuff? I use the Exped mattress. Okay. So, I'll blow that up, lay it on the little Home Depot. There's little, they come in plastic racks, basically. Yeah. So, I set that up. It's all lightweight. Okay.

[01:44:51] And I break it down, lay my Exped down there. Wonderful place to sleep. Have you ever heard of Luno mattress? I did. I checked them out today. Okay. And they just don't have any at the show that I wanted to be able to get because you get a better deal at the show than if you have to buy in secondhand. Well, you might be able to like order something and get a show deal and then they can ship it to you, potentially. Yes. But I also want to let you know, too, that they're going to be over at Camp Subaru in

[01:45:17] the back here from 7 to 9 doing, they're going to have an Outback out there and they're going to be there to answer questions and stuff. Wonderful. So, if you want to come check that out. Yeah. I will do that for sure. It'll be a good opportunity. But, yeah. So, it's kind of cool having you out here from Dallas. Oh, yeah. So easy to maintain. The great thing about it is I do like to do my own maintenance. You open up the hood and then everything's right there. Yeah. Everything's color coded. You've got your oil filter right there.

[01:45:45] The only thing you have to do is get up underneath it and you're good to go. So, it's fantastic. So, do you have the OEM skid plate on it or have you done any modifications? So far, it's all OEM, which is why I'm out here. Okay. I wanted to come see this setup here that you have at the Share the Love event here. Yeah. Also in Subaru camping. Yeah. I wanted to check out everybody else's SUVs. Oh, there's some. So, you haven't been back there yet? No. So, I'm hitting there next. Yeah. Yeah. And I started joining some SUV forums. Okay.

[01:46:11] I found out about the stuff that Subaru does in Flagstaff. Yeah. They had a huge camping area for all the folks at SUV owners. Yeah. That's why I want to bring mine out here. So, hopefully, I can do the same thing. Yeah. So, what do you think of the Subaru booth here? Well, I love it. Yeah. And it's a lot to learn. Everybody here is knowledgeable. They've been very helpful in helping me understand the things I can modify, the things I shouldn't modify. Yeah. And how well they can do. But stock, really, stock is good. Yeah.

[01:46:41] I mean, you really don't need to do much to them. Yeah. And especially with the wilderness because you've got a little bit more clearance. You've got the all-terrain tires. And it's just, you know, they've outfitted them so they're pretty much just ready to go. Yes. I mean, even if you don't get the wilderness trim, they're still so very capable. And I think a lot of people that don't know a lot about Subarus and then they get into it, they find out that it's way more capable than they realize. Absolutely. And they're kind of surprised about that. Absolutely. And that's what I'm picking up on.

[01:47:11] I thought I had to go into it and start doing a bunch of modifications off the bat. But everybody that I'm talking to that owns them right now, they're like, brother, you're ready to go. Yeah. You just, all you got to do is throw whatever you want in there and you're riding. You're getting it. And the way that a lot of the people do modify their Subarus is they modify it based on their needs. So, like, depending on where they're going, they might be like, you know what? I'm really wanting to get to these spots and I could probably use a little bit more of a lift. And I'm getting into some spots that are a little rocky.

[01:47:41] So, maybe I'll get some aftermarket under body protection, you know. And then, aside from that. And then, of course, you know, they do have all-terrain tires. But if you wanted a more aggressive all-terrain tire, you can do that. But, yeah, I mean, it sounds like it's working out well for you so far. And the funny thing is here in the all-wheel drive, so that's something else I didn't know about and how Subaru was the first to come up with some of the all-wheel drive. So, we just had a big snowstorm here back in Dallas. Yeah.

[01:48:09] So, I thought, what a great time to take it out in the snow. I found some big parking lots. It was trying to spin it. I couldn't spin it. Yeah, no, it's hard. I could not spin it. And so, I have a 21. It's a manual. Yeah. And I was – we had a big – the big freeze that we had, like, back in 2000 – Yep. What was it? 2000 – About four years ago. Yeah, yeah. I can't remember exactly when it was. But, yeah, we had that. And I – like, same thing. There was a big parking lot at the high school where my daughter went. Yeah.

[01:48:38] And it was open. Of course, I had only had my car for maybe, like, four months or so. And so, I was very – I was kind of timid with it. Yeah, yeah. Like, now I would have gotten more aggressive with it. But even then, like, it was kind of – even on the slick, you know, snow and icy conditions, it was still kind of hard to get it to go sideways, even with a manual. Couldn't do it. Yeah. I couldn't do it. As a matter of fact, they have a driving course up here.

[01:49:04] So, yesterday, I was up at the driving course and saw two Subarus go through. No. And I asked them as they were coming back down from the driving course, they said it didn't even – it didn't even hesitate. Going through up the hills and off camber through everything that they were doing. And because of the high lift on it, naturally, it's like there's nothing you can't do with it. Yeah. So, there might be some add-ons that you want to do. I'm looking at getting a spare tire rack for the back. Yeah. Because I don't want to have the donut when I'm off in the trail. Exactly, yeah.

[01:49:34] So, I'm looking at doing that. I want to add that. So, I'm getting ideas for which brand I should probably get. I know Subaru's big on Thule. Yeah. But, you know, I'm looking for something a little cheaper. Yeah, yeah, yeah. No, I understand. You have to, you know, get what's best for your budget and everything. So, being in Dallas, like, where are you taking your Subaru? Uh, mostly, it's either going to be around the Big Bend area. Okay. So, southwest Texas. That's a long drive. Or I'm going up into, oh, yeah, about an eight-hour ride. Yeah.

[01:50:03] Well, anything's a long drive in Texas. I know. So, it's crazy. I know so well. But Arkansas, there's some great trails up in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Oh, yeah, yeah. I found some there, too. Fantastic stuff to go out to. Yeah. And other than that, it's east Texas through Tyler, some of those areas. Yeah. I have family that's from Alto. Okay. So, yeah. Yeah. My first off-roading experience was in Colorado. Me and my family drove out to Colorado and did some off-roading there. Yeah. But, yeah, I love the Crosstrek. I like that it's small.

[01:50:31] It's very nimble and easy to maneuver, easy to park. You know, but I don't know. The Outback is calling me, too. Well, and that, so I'm going to get my wife. Now that I know how stable they are. Yeah. In the kind of conditions I was trying to put it through. I was so impressed with it that I want to get her one now, but I'm thinking about for her getting maybe the Forester. Yeah. She likes a little bit bigger vehicle. And I think the reliability of what I'm understanding out of Subaru now is incredible. Oh, yeah.

[01:50:59] I didn't even know it until I started doing research on it. Yeah. Because I got- I didn't either. Yeah. Right. So, once Honda started changing their look and the way that they're putting all the big computer dashboards and stuff, I just, I didn't like it anymore. So, I looked around, heard some good things about Subaru, researched it. Oh, good. Saw how easy it was to work on. I thought, that's mine. Yeah. I got a good one. And like, you know, being in Texas, we get some pretty heavy rains. Oh, yeah. And so, like, so I have the 21 Crosstrek.

[01:51:29] My daughter has a 24 Crosstrek. My son has a 2010 Outback. Nice. So, I feel good that all four of us have, or all three of us have Subarus. And, you know, with the heavy rains that we get and the all-wheel drive, I just feel like we're so much safer with that. Absolutely. I agree. You can be kind of hard to avoid, you know, hydroplaning if there's water on the road. But just other, you know, hard rain conditions, I feel so much safer in it. Solid. Yeah. It is solid.

[01:51:57] Because when you're trying to get it to go sideways in snow and ice and it's hard, you know it's going to be good with some rainy conditions on the road. Still a blast to drive trying to do it. Yeah. But now I know it's solid and I don't have to worry about it sliding around. Yeah. It's just been wonderful. So, what are some other things that you really like about it, you know, other than just all-wheel drive and safety? Oddly enough, for a smaller car, there's lots of room. There is. Yeah.

[01:52:25] I mean, even in the back seats, you've got a lot more room back there. And I love the fact that if you get the sunroof, the sunroof is massive. Yeah. It is pretty big. It is fantastic. It is fantastic. Yeah. I like the solidness of it. When you shut the doors, there's a hard thunk to it. Yeah. I tried out one of the Tacomas because I thought maybe I'd try a truck for a while. But they're real tinny. Real tinny sounding. Yeah, yeah. I think they're just making them lighter and lighter weight because of the EPA standards.

[01:52:55] Yeah. So these cars, to me, are just better built. Yeah. They're solid quality. The reliability apparently is off the charts. Yeah. And high resale value. Oh, yeah. Absolutely. So if you want to trade it in every three to five years, you can almost get it back. And there's some people that are trying to see how many miles they can get out of it. Yes. Because like I said, mine's at 21 and I have 146,000 miles on it. And it's still on the original clutch. Oh, wow. Which is impressive.

[01:53:24] I'm surprised it's lasted this long. Yeah. That's the only thing I do miss is I do wish I could get a stick. Yeah. Absolutely. It's just more than driving a stick than anything else. But it's kind of the way of the world now. It's got to be automatic. Yeah. Yeah, I know. I need to get another one, but I used to have one on the back of my car that said save the manuals. No, there you go. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. It's really cool. So yeah, that's, you know, I'm sold. Yeah. I really enjoy Subaru. Glad to hear. I like the people. Oh, yeah. The people with Subaru.

[01:53:53] I'm a big. Um, so I do a lot of photo shoots for animal rescue groups. Okay. Uh, when I purchased my car, I actually got to make my donations to animal rescue groups. Oh yeah. So they're real big in the outdoors. They're real big in camping, real big in overlanding. Uh, and they really help support, uh, local shelters and things. That's all I need. Yeah. They're so big on that. Yep. Yep. That was it. So that's what drove me there. Yeah. Well, good. Good. It's great. Well, yeah, if you get a chance to go check out camp Subaru.

[01:54:21] So if you take the loop and go around, it's like halfway around the loop straight back side. Yeah. Yeah. And, uh, like I guess, like I said, we're going to have, you know, Matt, seven, going to be back there at seven and nine, I believe. And then here from three to five, we have a party. Okay. Yeah. Okay. Great. Today. Yeah. Okay. Great. Happening in like just a little bit. Yeah. I was going to say, we should be coming close. Yeah. And your name? Raphael. Raphael. Nice to meet you. Nice to meet you too. Yeah. Great. Thank you. Alrighty. All right. Awesome. That was great.

[01:54:51] Overland Expo PNW 2026. I'm here with Amanda. How's it going? Good. How are you? Good. Yeah. So you've got some exciting news because you've got this little guy that you adopted over at the booth. Yeah, we did. We adopted him. Um, we just kind of, we've been looking for another dog for a while and it just, I don't know, it felt right. We looked at a couple other dogs named, there was one named Dax. Um, he was a lab mix. Um, and he was kind of feeling it. He was just kind of chill. Yeah.

[01:55:19] But then this little guy just got put on me and he put his head on my shoulder and I just, that was it. That was it. Yeah. So, uh, from what I understand, you've been to Overland Expo PNW before? Yeah. Yeah. We, uh, uh, we're here last year. Um, it was just myself, uh, looked a little different than I did, uh, last year. Um, I didn't have the rooftop tent. Okay. So it was kind of a nice, uh, nice upgrade. Yeah. But you were here with Subaru last year too, right? Yeah.

[01:55:47] Um, I got invited, uh, Derek on Praved, um, PNW. He just sent me the link. He said, here, try and see what happens. And I said, okay, I did. He's a pretty good guy. Yeah. Yeah. I like him. Yeah. He's been super cool. Yeah. That's cool. So what has your experience been this year, especially like coming into base camp compared to last year? Cause it's quite a bit different than it was last year. It is. Um, I feel like it's, it feels a little bit more open than last year. Yeah.

[01:56:15] Um, but like the community vibes have been like a ton different. Yeah. It's like, they've put a little bit more effort into just being out here and enjoying each other's company and getting to meet new people. Yeah. Yeah. And then they've got, what I really like too, is they've got the long tables so that people are not really forced to sit together, but it's like encouraged like, Hey, let's all sit here and be a community. I think last year they only had one. Yeah. Um, so this year it's kind of cool that they have multiple of them.

[01:56:45] So everybody can just kind of chill together and hang out. Yeah. And then they've got the stage, which we've got live music, which was cool. Cause they didn't do that last year. And then of course you've got the chefs, which is food is amazing. Yes. Yeah. I was telling my husband about it. Who's here with me. Yeah. Uh, and I was like, you're not going to worry about food. We just have to worry about lunch, but even the vendors here are pretty cool. Yeah. Yeah. And I actually like yesterday, I didn't even eat lunch. I ended up, I didn't even eat lunch. Like I, and today I haven't eaten lunch either.

[01:57:14] So I'm like, because I don't usually eat breakfast and I usually eat a little bit later, but I'm, I'm going to eat this breakfast. Yeah. It's so good. Yeah. And then I'm like, and then I'll just wait until dinner and maybe have a snack in between. The pancakes this morning were so good. Happy water bowl. I'm giving to your husband. Oh, thank you. Um, they, the, the pancakes were really good this morning. Um, even dinner last night was just really good. Yeah.

[01:57:40] They definitely, they make it an experience for, for food. Yeah. And then again, you know, everybody eating together. Yeah. So it's just been, it's just been really fun, but it's just great that Subaru is doing this for all of the community. And it was really surprising to my husband too. He like, he got a little surprised. He's like, he's like, this is just, this is so cool. It's like, it's just like a community aspect of everything. He's like, I did not realize it was, it was like this. Yeah.

[01:58:06] I said, yeah, it's just like, we're all owners and we're all from all over the place, but we get to come here and just chill out and get to meet. Yeah. And look at everybody's build and see what they do because everybody's different. That's what I like about it. Yeah. And you have a lot of similarities. Like maybe some people have the same wheels or same roof rack or something, but everybody does their own thing and, you know, has their own little unique style that they have with their build. And it's cool to see what everybody's doing and then meet new people that you wouldn't have met before.

[01:58:36] Yeah. Yeah. So what do you think about like the Subaru booth where they've got, you know, all the factory vehicles and owner vehicles? Uh, I, I, it's like, it's super cool because I got to actually sit in the 26. I have not seen it. I have not like been in it cause, um, I work at a body shop and we haven't had one in yet. Okay. Um, and so it was kind of cool to sit in it. And I was telling my husband, I was like, yeah, there's a lot more leg room and headroom because whenever he drives it, he tends to get up there cause he's like six, five. Yeah.

[01:59:06] So he's a little up there. I know, but you're going. So what are your thoughts on, I mean, the interior is so nice, but like the exterior, cause I know there's like mixed feelings about it. So what do you feel about the 26? Um, as, as just a stock vehicle, I'm not a huge fan of it. It's growing on me a little bit, but there was, I believe it was rally tech, um, who did it? Maybe it was rally innovations.

[01:59:33] Um, who did it, it, it just with the river rock color, I believe it is. It just, it looks so cool and it looks just so good with the modifications that they put on it. Yeah. Even, even the one that they have over there in the, in the booth, they just changed out the wheels and tires and just that alone. The, uh, um, uh, Oh God, the, the gold color wheels, the bronze color wheels. Yeah. Yeah. That makes a big difference on it. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah.

[02:00:00] So have you, have you met like some new people here as far as, cause I know you knew some people here obviously, but like, have you had a chance to meet a bunch of new people at the camp? Yeah. There was actually, we went on the crater lake run. Um, there was a, um, a brother and sister duo in the, in a forester with us. Nice. They're super cool. Um, I think that's Jamie and Janine. Okay. Um, got to meet them. Um, I got to meet Josh Camilla Fazz for the first time. Cause it's like, I know a bunch of people from Instagram. Yeah.

[02:00:29] And I was like, I've talked to them, but it's like putting a face to a name. Yeah. Super cool. Yeah. And that's, what's cool too. Not, and I know that there's people that are not really like in the community and they may not know about it. And there just might be some people that are just like daily driver Subaru owners that don't know that, you know, Subaru does this and that don't know that there's a community out there. So for them, it's a good chance to meet some people and see what other people are doing with their vehicles. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I actually had, um, some people come by, they were walking through the camp and just

[02:00:59] looking at everybody and just talking about like what I've done to them. They're like, Oh, that's super cool. And I'm like, yeah, I put some effort into it, but yeah, it's, it's, it's easy to do. It's easy to modify. I mean, it takes a little bit of money, but. Yeah. Yeah. And there's a lot of options and I see you're part of the Max Trax micro crew, which is always fun. I am. Yes. Yeah. That's cool. I like this too. You've got the little, so what is this exactly? The tire table. I actually bought that here last year. Oh, this one? Yeah. Yeah. Um, tire table.

[02:01:28] And then I just set up my little coffee table on there and then most of the time it's on the front, um, tire because then I set up my, uh, um, diesel, diesel heater on it. Oh, nice. So I'm going to do cold weather camping, which kind of wish I would have had it. Yeah. Yeah. It got chilly here. Yeah. Um, but yeah, it's, it was a, it was a super cool find. That was my buy last year. And then this is my buy this year. Yeah. I know. It's, it's super cool. Cause you know, of course Subaru loves pets and then they bring them, they do the pet adoption

[02:01:57] and that's cool that you adopted one. I know Milton and Carrie adopted one last year. They got Lola last year. Yeah. Yeah. That was really cool. So yeah, it's been a fun experience. Yes. I, I, I've, I've had a lot of fun this year and just even just chilling out by the fires and just relaxing. Yeah. Um, you don't have to go do something every day, just kind of chill and just talk. Yeah. Yeah. And meet new people. Yeah. Have a good time. So, well, thanks for hopping on the mic and chatting. Yeah. It was great. I loved it. It was nice meeting you. Yeah. Yeah.

[02:02:27] It was great meeting you too. Yeah. Chance to come out here and meet a lot of people that I've either been following or just didn't know, you know, we're out in the community and then see people again that I haven't seen in a year. Yes. Yeah. That's fun. I've been slowly getting, um, involved more in the community as well. Um, especially with like Carrie Milton, I've been doing a couple of runs with them and then same with, uh, Melissa, um, Shenfield's journey, I think is what it is. Yeah. Um, hanging out with her and doing stuff with her. Uh, she just did the, uh, national parks run.

[02:02:57] Yeah. Yeah. I missed that one. I wanted to go on it, but I missed it. And are you part of the Subi crew? I am part of the Subi crew. Yeah. It was my first year. I got in and invited, um, to be on there. I was like super surprised, but yeah. Yeah. So what is your experience been with that so far? Uh, so far it's been super cool. Um, we haven't had any issues. We've been like solely rolling things out and, and just, um, there was people in the community that I didn't know. Like I knew Carrie and Milton because they're, they're in my chapter. Okay.

[02:03:26] I'm in there with Carrie Milton and Melissa. Those are the people that I knew, but there's like, there's other people that are chapter leader and, um, a director. I didn't know. Okay. Um, but I'm like, wait, I've seen your car around. Yeah. Yeah. It seems to happen. Where are you going? He's excited. I know. He's probably getting chilly again. Yeah. Um, yeah, but yeah, it's kind of cool to like, it's like, I've seen your car around. It's like, okay, I know you are now. Yeah. Yeah.

[02:03:54] No, it's, it's great that Joe is rolling out the Subi crew and, you know, just popping it here and there. And then I know eventually it'll be kind of complete with what his vision is with it. Yeah. I'm excited to see where it goes. Yeah. Me too. And I'm going to have him on at some point to like talk about it. Like after he's kind of launched it everywhere. Yeah. Yeah. Feedback on that. So yeah. That'd be cool. So yeah. So thanks again. Yeah. Thank you. You're welcome.

[02:04:20] So we're here at Overland Expo PNW 2026 and, uh, interviewing another person here, Gustavo. This is actually my first time sitting down doing one of these. So he brought out the double chair. It was very nice. Yeah. So it's nice to meet you, man. Nice meeting as well in person. Yeah. Mostly. I just see you, um, on Instagram or here in the podcast. So I'm definitely glad that, you know, we were able to meet at this race camp. Yeah. Yeah. It's cool to like get to, it's, it's always fun when you get a chance to meet somebody in

[02:04:50] person that you've, you know, chatted with online or just follow or whatever. Yeah, definitely. But, uh, first off, this thing is awesome. Thank you. Thank you. So, uh, tell us a little bit about this first. Yeah. So this is a 2020, uh, Subaru WRX. Um, in this case it's lifted, uh, measure maybe about like five inches from stock. Okay. Um, I'm running, uh, uh, 2016 3.6 outback suspension, um, with, uh, just the front suspension, uh,

[02:05:20] replacing the top hat for WRX top hats. Um, and then a one inch spacer as well in the rear. Okay. Um, the engine is pretty much stock, uh, not much into it other than just replacing, you know, the, um, engineer filter for, uh, K&N and then, uh, uh, bypass valve from Grimspread. Other than that, pretty much stock. Yeah. But the exterior is definitely nice. The exterior is definitely nice. Yeah. Um, so it has been a little bit of, uh, I don't know, like a headache every now and

[02:05:49] then, mostly just on finding parts for what I want to do just because as you know, WRXs are normally lowered to the ground for the most part. Um, so finding things to lift it and to make it look like an overlanded. It has been a little bit challenging. Yeah. Um, but the good thing is that a spider, uh, no drill refrac was able to made as well. A refrac for my car. Nice. And they're the only company that I know at this point, uh, that makes a roof like that as well. Nice. That's what I have. I have a spider. Yeah. No, they're awesome.

[02:06:19] Um, I mean, I have been able to put, you know, the awning on this side and then the shower awning as well on the other side. Yeah. Um, I am running as well, a lot of, uh, diodynamics lights. Um, I, I mean, I have eight just up front, um, on the hood side and then two for fogs plus the light bar on the top and then two more pots in the rear as well. Yeah. So a little bit of lights. A little bit. Yeah. Just a little bit. Yeah. And I just did as well, the top 40 sign before the Subaru base camp, just because I wanted to have a different look.

[02:06:49] Um, it definitely has a different look. Oh yeah. No, and it definitely gets the attention. Yeah. Um, and it depends on how close you are or depending on the light as well. You're able to see that in reality, it's a black and green. Yeah. Um, but I think the green definitely calls out a lot more attention than anything else. Yeah. And you said with the lift, you're running about stock height as a, as a cross track about that. I think, yeah, yeah. Uh, for the most part, it might be, um, a little bit higher maybe with different Wilson tires. Okay.

[02:07:18] Um, but at this moment with what I'm running, uh, 17s, um, and then, uh, the needle tires as well. Uh, those are the Wilson tire setup that I got when I lifted the first time for like two inches from Rally Tech. Okay. Um, so when I did that, it looked good, but now definitely like, you know, started planning to get on 15s and then getting thicker tires as well to, you know, make it look better as well because there is too much space in between the tire and the wheel wheel. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I've got quite a bit there. So you got some room to grow. Definitely. Yeah.

[02:07:48] Yeah. And have you done quite a bit of off-roading with it or just mostly like gravel roads and stuff? Yeah. So for the most part, um, I try to join into like, you know, um, trips that Carrie and Milton do for the most part. Um, so they're like pretty fun. So a lot of like gravel roads and like off-roading and sometimes like as well testing the articulations of it. Yeah. Um, cause, uh, we ended up going to the first, uh, off-road class that Milton and Carrie offer. And I was on like two inch lift.

[02:08:14] That was the first time that I ended up hitting my skip play, uh, with a big dent on it. Um, so I just replaced it for a Rally Tech one as well. Uh, but, uh, for the most part, yeah, not running sway bars, um, after the lift as well, it definitely made it feel better off-road just because I don't have to worry about, you know, too much movements on every pothole that Washington has to offer. Um, so that is definitely a plus for me. So, um, yeah, I would like to take a little bit more off-roading and also camping as well.

[02:08:43] That is, uh, one of the things that I have on the bucket list for this year and we already did one of those. Yeah. Yeah. You've got to set it for the camping. So, so when you like, so is this your first time to Overland Expo period? Yeah. Okay. So this is the first time on Overland Expo. This is the first time on Subaru Basecamp. And this is also the first time for me using my entire setup of camping. So like that time I've been just storing it for like months after I got it, never used it.

[02:09:12] And then all of the audience, I got it a month before the Overland Expo. Okay. In preparation for it. Yeah, definitely. So everything is new, but, uh, I thought that I was doing a little bit too much shopping, but it's definitely not enough, but it definitely helped for all of the nights in here. It was definitely comfy. Good. Good. Yeah. Yeah. So, so coming into here, like what was your impression of Basecamp and everything that they have set up?

[02:09:37] So in my case, just kind of like how I just got to this spot specifically. Um, I was definitely excited from the beginning, uh, mostly because I wasn't sure if I was going to get picked right for the Subaru Basecamp, um, which I'm glad I did. And I really appreciate that. I know, right? And I'm also like really glad to see that I'm not the only OverX. There was also an STI and I think there was another. And then there was a BRZ.

[02:10:06] The BRZ as well. So I'm definitely glad that that is opening up a little bit more. Yeah. Cause it's nice that they didn't, that they invited people that don't just have off-road bills. Exactly. Yeah. And give them an opportunity. Yeah. That too. Which is awesome as well. Like talking to them, it has been definitely fun and like their experience as well on this, it has been great too. Um, so like for me, just seeing this, I wasn't sure what to expect. Uh, for the most part, before coming into this trip, I was just like watching TikToks or like YouTube videos.

[02:10:33] I was like, what do I need to learn from it to prepare for it? Right. Yeah. Um, but the Subaru base cam, I didn't saw much videos other than the ones that were happening on like South Carolina or California. It was South California. Yeah. So like seeing all of those videos definitely gave me an idea. And then I got lost also on the way here just because I was asking for instructions to like everyone and they sent me all the way around the expo until I finally got here. Yeah.

[02:11:01] Uh, but like seeing this spot, seeing as well, like all of the people, it has been a really great opportunity. I think. And also, um, a great time to enjoy, you know, what Subaru is made of the community and like talking with everyone as well. Um, definitely as well, camping with all of you guys as well. Um, in here, it has been great. It's something new for me. Like I have mentioned a few times already, but it's definitely something that I have enjoyed to the plenty of it, you know? Yeah.

[02:11:57] Yeah. I never asked or found the showers, but I know that they were out there too. Okay. Um, I ended up just using the shower running that I have. And how did that work out for you? It did work out even though it was cold. Um, I had to heat up some water prior to it. Um, but other than that, it definitely worked out too. Um, and yeah, it has been, I don't know, great for me. Yeah. That's good. So what did you think of the way that they have the booth set up over there for Subaru? Oh, that's awesome.

[02:12:24] I already went in there, uh, for like a few of the classes that they have with Milton and Kerry as well with, um, Rihanna. Rihanna. Rihanna. Yeah. Yeah. So, um, yeah, it was awesome. I also in there just kind of like having great people working in there for Subaru as well. Uh, we're like the people as well that are there. It was awesome. Good drinks, good snacks as well. The tamales. Yeah. Oh yeah. Those were good. Um, I brought those. Oh, you did? Yeah. Oh, no way. I didn't know that.

[02:12:54] The little walking tamales. Yeah. I brought those. Oh, that's awesome, man. I reached out to the brand and you know, I was, cause I wanted to see if they were working with creators. Yeah. He said they aren't working with creators, but I told them about this event and I said, is there any way you could send some to it? And he said, yeah. So he sent those to us. Oh man. Yeah. That's awesome. I mean, that was a good thing to have in there too. Yeah. It was really good. Yeah. No, the talks as well were definitely helpful. We were just, uh, um, hearing as well about, you know, um, living out of your car.

[02:13:21] And one of the things was a fridge just because I bought a fridge just for this trip. Um, and then we're talking about, you know, overheating the fridge and things like that, how to leave space around it too. And that definitely happened as I was packing up just because I did it like on a Wednesday morning and it was like really hot. And all of a sudden, like the fridge shot off completely. And I'm like, Oh wow. It happened. But I saw that the sun was hitting right on it. So I'm like, okay, you probably got overheated. I closed the door. As soon as I did that, it came back on. Oh, that's great.

[02:13:50] So, um, good learning experience. Exactly. And hearing that from the talk, I was like, yeah, that definitely happened. And that's something that people should know as well. You know how to prepare for that too. Yeah. Yeah. And it's good that they have these little like seminars because then it's a good learning opportunity for people that, you know, if they have a Subaru and they want to come over there and learn some of these things about going off road, about lighting, about living out of your, because even if you're not planning on living out of your Subaru, but it's good information. If you're going to go like stay camping for a few days, you know, that's really good stuff

[02:14:20] to keep in mind. Oh yeah. No. And, and as well, I mean, all of those like seminars as well, um, has helped me out just because I don't take it as often, but yeah. At the same time, it is kind of like in the way of like the double X being lifted is definitely something new for a lot of people and for a lot of places too. Um, and it was even new to us. Well, Milton and I were working on that as well. Um, it was what we think it was like one of one at this point in the United States.

[02:14:46] Um, so like for me, it has been a learning experience on how to off-road it, how to do things that a cross track could do as well. Um, learning a little bit more about the all wheel drive system and, and as well about driving a manual off-road too. Driving that too. Yeah. Because it is a manual. Yeah. Yeah. Um, I remember that on the first class, I, you know, um, was going up a hill and it did shut off a few times just because articulation wasn't there, but it definitely did it at the end. Um, and also this experience, uh, had taught me a little bit more about organizing just

[02:15:15] because I don't have much room. Um, and with the tent that I have behind me, like that's a big tent as well. Um, so everything packed into your car, everything is parked inside my car. So the trunk was already tight after the tent. Um, so I was using the entire trunk of just like pushing things in. Um, and then also the rear seats that were packed to the roof as well. So you foresee maybe getting like a really small, lightweight trailer to pull behind you to put stuff in. That was kind of like the idea.

[02:15:45] The other thing that I've been thinking of is putting more things on the roof just because there's a lot of space that I have just not using at all. Um, but when I was planning for this, I didn't have time to like order the carrier boxes or things like that to fit in there. Yeah. Cause that would be good. That would be nice. Yeah. Cause like a lot of the stuff is like, you know, I do have kind of like a small, uh, box in here where I have like all of the tools or like the blankets and that could have been on the roof. Yeah. And that would save me as well. Some space.

[02:16:12] Um, the trailer part or like the, just the carrier box kind of like in the back, I have thought about it. Um, but just because of the setup, but with the bash board that I have at the rear, um, that might not work. Okay. So that, that's where I'm at of like trying to see what, because I'm doing a mix of like off-road, overlanding style to also stay to what the WX is like. So just mostly because I'm not able to find a lot of things out there. Right. Yeah. Um, so I'm trying to do a mix of those two or three things as well.

[02:16:40] So we'll, we'll see what we can work with. And it's about exploration and trying to figure out what, what does work for you. And making it unique as well. Yeah. Cause you know, if you have like a hatchback, it's a lot easier to do organization and finding a place for things and people still end up using the roof, you know, for storage, but yeah, when you only have a trunk, you're limited. It's, uh, but I think it is, it is good that you figured out a way to get all that stuff in here and bring it with you. Yeah. And it helped out that for the sprint. It was just a two people trip. Yeah.

[02:17:09] I don't know where that other person would have been. Yeah, exactly. Yeah. Yeah. So it was great meeting you. And, uh, it's like, what, what is your like biggest takeaway from this whole experience? I mean, my biggest takeaway, I think from this is like all of the things that I learned of course from the, uh, Subaru classes that they had, um, definitely all of the people that I met, um, on this days, I have made some really good friends now. Yeah. Um, really good communication as well. Just kind of like with the raffles just to say, I was not expecting to win anything. I did.

[02:17:39] What did you end up winning? So I won two things. I won a Subaru hat signed by, uh, Rihanna and then, uh, um, as well a poster, uh, that had a brat on it. Nice. And then the other prize that I got was, um, a knife, like a meat crafter. That's right. I saw that. So I got the meat crafter with a hat and then a cozy as well. Um, the cozy and the hat were signed. And then I just had the knife engraved this morning before they left. Oh, very nice. That's so cool.

[02:18:07] But what I take from that is that I ended up building as well. Like a good talk with, uh, one of the other folks that are camping with us and he won twice in a row. Yeah. So then, uh, there was a limit, right? That you can only win twice. Yeah. Um, so then the third time that one of his ticket won, he gave it to another person as well to get a Diode Dynamics, uh, windbreaker. And all of a sudden we were just kind of like looking at our tickets. None of them were getting called out. All of a sudden the Subaru stuff came out and he came right behind us and he was like,

[02:18:37] Hey, you guys won. You guys won. And he handed me the tickets. So then I go over, I claimed the price as well. Uh, you know, we gave him a hog as well. I have an appreciation too. And all of a sudden there was the knife coming up and I started like seeing all of the numbers because I had five plus other two. And then all of a sudden from the two that he gave me, that was another winner as well. So then I, I just couldn't believe it too. So like just building that community with everyone was definitely awesome. I tried to like talk to as much people as possible too.

[02:19:06] Um, and talking about their cars. The Rapport was a lot of fun. Yes, there was a lot of fun. Yeah. Um, and yeah, I think it's mostly just kind of like the community, um, also learning about what people are doing, uh, with their cars, with, you know, their camping trips as well. Um, learning a little bit more about them and just kind of like growing the community that I'm around with. So that has definitely helped me out to be in here in Superbase Camp. This is a great opportunity. Um, I just never would have thought that I would have been chosen to be here and also at the Overland Expo.

[02:19:35] Um, but at the same time, you know, I'm definitely appreciative of this opportunity and really enjoyed all the things that it got to offer as well. Yeah. So cool. Congrats, man. No, appreciate it. And yeah, it has been good to me as well. Yeah. Talking with you around the Superbase Camp as well. Yeah. Um, and seeing you as well, taking all of the videos and all of that too is definitely awesome. And I'm excited for that too. Thank you. So yeah, of course. Great meeting you. Great meeting you as well. Alrighty. All right.

[02:20:03] We are here at Overland Expo PNW 2026 and I'm here with Benjamin. I wanted to talk to him because he has his car at the Subaru booth, which I think is really, really cool. So how's it going, man? I'm doing great. Great to see you here. And it's been super fun event so far. It's day two. Yeah. So how did you go about getting your car in the booth?

[02:20:30] Um, last year I attended Loveland Overland Expo Mountain West, like Raph was saying. And I talked with Joe from Subaru. Um, and then I kind of chatted with him and I said, is there opportunity to get into this, uh, get into the booth maybe at the Loveland event or the Redmond Expo. And, um, I ended up moving up to Oregon just about two months ago, a month and a half or two.

[02:21:00] And here we are. So, um, super stoked that he was able to find some space for me and I'm really happy to be here. It's awesome. Yeah. It's a really cool experience. So like, what are your thoughts on the booth itself, the way it's set up? Cause you went to Loveland and it's a little bit different setup. So what do you think of this one this year? I really like this venue. So the venue, the venue of the whole expo is really, really nice. Yeah. Lots of green grass, lots of trees, lots of shade.

[02:21:28] Not that it's been really hot or anything. It's super windy. Really windy. Um, the venue set up really nice. I think where, where the camp Subaru booth is, um, is really nice. Cause you have all these people coming in and then exiting. The entrance is right over there. Entering and exiting. So people are kind of checking out all the cars as they come in. Um, and then we have the speakers over there and the stage kind of, um, and I love how many vehicles we have here too.

[02:21:56] I think there's seven. Yeah. So it's really cool to see a big variety of, um, Subarus here. Absolutely. Yeah. So have, what has your experience been like here? Have you had a lot of people coming up and talking to you and asking questions? Yeah. I have had quite a bit of people either just taking a look or asking about certain things. Um, the suspension, the tires, or maybe even the cell booster or something like that. That's cool. Yeah.

[02:22:24] I know when I first saw that yesterday, I thought it was like one of the 360 cameras, but just like at first glance, I was like, Oh no, it looks very similar. And how well does that work? It works really well. It's not like I explained to everyone. It's not like if you have no service, it's not going to pick up a bar, but if it's like weak signal, it's going to boost that up to one to two bars, three bars, whatever it can. So it's going to pick up signal and boost it as much as it can. Yeah. So it definitely helps.

[02:22:52] Um, if you're out in remote areas, having some cell service is really nice. Yeah. Yeah. And people have been really, really stoked to see an older car. I've mentioned this before, but it's a 2010. So everything else here, I think is at least 2020 and newer. Yeah. I think, um, there's like a 21 Crosstrek, but this being a 16 year old car is really cool. So people appreciate that. Yeah, absolutely. Yeah. And then like, so what you've, you've been over at base camp, you know, and check that

[02:23:21] out. So what is your, like, Oh, your, your, what was your first impression of that? Cause I know in Loveland it was different cause it was a separate space and it was kind of remote from the event and there was like a minimal setup over there too. But then like rolling over into that one, what were you, what was your first impression and thoughts on it? Yeah, I was really impressed. Um, I really liked the way they had it set up. So, um, really nice area with really nice bunch of chairs and like a huge community area, which is really cool.

[02:23:51] Lots of different options. Um, and all the cars set up. Um, and it's, it's, it's quieter and it's farther away from kind of the main expo yet. It's super close to this. It's like a couple minute walk. Yeah. Um, I think having the camping in the expo is so key. Like the, the mountain West one's so different cause it is separated. Um, so it's not, you can still go, but it's not like you're as connected. It's a little bit harder.

[02:24:19] Um, so it's really nice having that and then getting to hang out at night has been really nice. Yeah. Yeah. That's cool. But yeah, it's, um, it's been a great experience here. I'm glad to be back. And, uh, and it, and this is your first time at PNW, right? Yes. Okay. Yep. That's what I thought. First time at the Redmond. Okay. Yeah. Yeah. That's a nice, that's a nice venue. And so like, what are your kind of takeaways with your car being in the booth, you know,

[02:24:48] and getting this experience and getting to talk to people about it? Yeah. I mean, it's been really awesome. It's definitely quite a bit of standing around, you know, and talking to people, but at the same time, just getting, getting to meet so many different people is really, really cool. I really enjoyed that. And all, no matter, I've met so many people that don't even have Subarus. I had, uh, one of my coworkers. It's going to be my next question is like, has it been a mix of people that own Subarus and don't own Subarus?

[02:25:18] Mainly people that own Subarus, but then I just had one of my coworkers friends come up to me that it's got a Jeep, you know, people that's got Jeeps and they all are just appreciating the commonality of getting out and exploring and just having different vehicles. So it's really, really cool to see that. And I think that's really the important part that I think like the off-road and overland community as a whole, no matter what builds you have, or you have a Jeep or a Toyota or

[02:25:46] Ford or, you know, Subaru, I think it should all really be about just getting out and exploring no matter what vehicle you have. I agree. Yeah. So it really, I think the whole point of this event is just showcasing new gear, new vehicles, new ideas, new ways to just get out and explore and camp and explore new places. Yeah. Yeah. So it's been great having you here. It's been great again, like over at base camp, but like with base camp, what would you

[02:26:15] say is like your favorite thing over there or your favorite aspect of it? Probably, probably the meals, getting to have the group meals has been really awesome. The breakfast has been fantastic. The dinner's been fantastic. And yeah, like just the kind of community time in the morning and especially in the evening. Yeah. Getting to hang out around the campfire with everyone. It's been really awesome. Yeah. And the way that it, the way they have it set up and the long tables, it just brings everybody

[02:26:45] together, which I think is great. And then some people have their own little areas where they migrate to, but I think as a whole, it's great to bring people together that haven't met each other. Yeah. I think there's so many people I've met, I've known online and now I'm finally meeting them in person and there's tons of people that have never been here before. So everyone's getting to meet each other, which is just awesome. Yeah. Yeah. Cool. Thank you so much for hopping on the mic. Yeah. I'm going to get you on the podcast for a full episode at some point. Sounds good. Yeah.

[02:27:15] So thanks again. Yeah. Thank you. You're welcome. Yep. Cool. What's up, Derek? It's good to see you, Raph. You too, man. Yeah. It's been a while. It's been a year. It's been exactly one year. Yeah. It's cool to be out here again and hanging out with all my buddies and doing Subaru things. Yeah. Same. And some new buddies as well. Absolutely. So last year you had your Forester right there in the booth. Yep.

[02:27:43] This year you're at base camp. Yep. So what's your experience been like here at base camp? I'm definitely feeling the base camp vibe a lot more than being in the booth, honestly. Yeah. Yeah. And you had to be over there. Right. Right. When your car's in the booth, you kind of have to be there with it. Yeah. And talk to people about it. And it kind of locks you in there. But it's kind of nice being able to go out and do some day trips and did some wheeling

[02:28:11] today and then went out to the Painted Hills yesterday. Yeah. And it's just nice being able to escape for a little while. Yeah. So the other thing too is like, I don't know what they're doing back there. So I know that you were coming to base camp last year and just for breakfast and dinner and stuff. But it's quite a bit different this year. So what is your experience this year with it?

[02:28:40] Like rolling in here, it's obviously different. It's a real first impression. I mean, it's definitely got a great vibe. And it's lots of spaces set up for people to kind of mingle together. Plenty of opportunities to get to know people that maybe you haven't hung out with before. Yeah. I like how they have... Everybody has like their little car set up. There's also places like community areas where you can go hang out with people and gotten to meet some new people from that. Yeah.

[02:29:08] I definitely feel spoiled being here with all the stuff that Subaru has put out for us. I mean, I feel like there's just things available for us all day. Yeah. They've been doing a great job. Yeah. Yeah. Bringing in chefs with amazing food. Yeah. And the live entertainment at the stage. So it's been pretty cool. And I mean, the booth over there is pretty similar to last year. I think they've got maybe a few more cars, but then they have the accessories area. Yeah.

[02:29:37] I mean, like what is your overall vibe been with the whole experience so far? Because I know we started off on Thursday going out and doing some trailing. Yeah. Which is fun. I mean, I'm very impressed with the statement that Subaru has been making at the Overland Expo. Yeah. It definitely seems like they are taking this seriously and they've kind of have seen all

[02:30:02] of these amazing things that people are doing to their Subarus without, you know, like Subaru acknowledging it basically. Like they're just kind of doing their own thing. And I feel like they're taking notice now and looking around this base camp, there's some pretty incredible setups that people have come up with. A lot of creativity and just functionality for, you know, being out off grid for days at a time. But yeah.

[02:30:33] Yeah. Definitely impressed with what Subaru has done to promote this and take care of us while we're here too. Yeah. They've been, they've taken very good care of us from just like this whole setup and all the tables and the little like community areas around the campfires and the food, you know, they just, they, uh, they see, they see us and then they're, so they're taking care of us. And, uh, I know that everybody is extremely grateful for that. Yep. Yeah. Yep. So, uh, yeah.

[02:31:03] Yeah. Thanks for chatting. Anything else you want to add? Um, I don't know. I was starting to think if I've done anything new to the Forrester, but follow me on Instagram. Oh yeah. If you want to. Yeah. Follow me. Unpaid PNW. Yeah. Um, yeah. I'm just kind of going through another tired debacle and always trying to find the right suspension for my, for my needs and everything. But, um, it was actually kind of cool.

[02:31:31] I was talking to Luke, um, the Ironman CEO who came over yesterday and I'm like, Luke, you're going to come by again, again this year to give us an update on where things are at. And he's like a hundred percent. Like, I'd be happy to, but I don't think they've really changed a whole lot since then. But it sounds like everybody that was in the booth, um, or the base camp last year that talked with them has been taken care of as far as either getting a refund or replacement on products. Yeah. And that was really good of him to come over and talk to people and not shy away and not be like, Nope, not going to do that.

[02:32:01] No. Like he said, like, all right, I'm just going to jump into the lines then and come over and see what's going on. And, um, then he showed up again first thing yesterday morning to check on it too. So I know I was wanting to go see him and then he, uh, I was standing out here and he came by and I was like, you know, when are you leaving? He was like, I'm leaving right now. He's like, but I wanted to come by and find you. Yeah. That was really nice. Yeah. It was great for him to do that and take the time. So it was cool. Yeah.

[02:32:26] I'm hoping they, uh, kind of take it seriously and, um, maybe make some changes to the products, but yeah. It seems like he is super happy with it. Yeah. Yeah. Cool. All right, man. Nice chatting. Okay. Likewise. Yeah. I'm standing here with Richard. How's it going, man? Hey, how's it going? Good. Good. It's nice to see you again. Yeah. You were out here last year and Neil skis introduced me to you. Yeah. Y'all were like camped right next to each other. But, uh, I know that you had the experience here with Subaru last year.

[02:32:56] So what is it, what was your impression coming in here and seeing base camp set up, you know, as opposed to how it was last year? Uh, I mean, this year one, for instance, is, uh, I like how everything was set up and organized. So they have like a great entrance. So there's an entrance right behind us. You can't see right now, but yeah. It's a great entrance. It kind of leads you into the open area where you have nice seating. Um, and it's very comfortable.

[02:33:22] They have more seating that had more fire pits, um, which came in handy because it was a little windy out here and colder than we had expected and planned. But it was definitely a nice layout. Yeah. It was warmer last year and this year, a lot cold, colder. I mean the cold, it wasn't, it wouldn't have been so bad with just the cold, but the wind was like kicking so hard. The wind would bite right through you. Yeah. Yeah.

[02:33:45] So, uh, like, you know, with the way to have everything set up, like what was it, what was like something that stood out to you the most with the way to have everything going here? I would think the common areas, um, last year they had maybe one game. It was cornhole. And then this year they had a couple of games. They had cornhole, some, uh, frisbee games, little, um, ball games over there on the other side. So it was just more activities. And then you have more common areas to see. So yeah, more fire pits and more, uh, coolers with drinks.

[02:34:14] So kind of bring the community a little bit back together. Yeah. So what was something that you kind of took away from this experience here at base camp? I'm just kind of getting to know everybody. Like everybody comes from a different aspect, different way of life and just kind of learning what makes them love Subaru and what they've done to it, what they haven't done to it. What makes them love the brand of Subaru? Yeah. Yeah. And then like, what are your thoughts on the booth set up over there where they've got the factory cars and stuff? Oh, I like that.

[02:34:42] I love the inclusive nature of the love, um, logo on the front. Yeah. All the cars are out. So they showcase some of the owner's cars that have different stories behind them. You can talk to the owners and learn more about their stories and what makes them tick. And as well as the, some of the stock cars that they have in the booth that shows what you can get from the dealership as well. Yeah. Yeah. And then how many times have you been to this Overland Expo? Uh, this will be my second year. Okay. And each year I've done it with the Subaru camp.

[02:35:13] Okay. Yeah. Cause I know some people have been coming to Overland Expo, you know, whichever event it may be. Yeah. You know, but then they find out that Subaru is here and then they're like, oh, it's even better, you know? Yeah. So it's great that, uh, we could have this happening. Yeah. It's awesome. With Subaru. Definitely an awesome time. Yeah. Uh, and then like, did you meet any new people here at this, at this event? Yeah. I actually met, um, Kai is one. He lives in Portland. He lives right, pretty much right down the street from me. That's cool.

[02:35:42] He has a Subaru Wilderness Forester. Nice. I just met Jamie this morning. He has a, the Wilderness Forester is right here. Yeah. Um, they're from Idaho. Boys in Idaho. So yeah, just meet like different people who love Subaru. Yeah. Yeah. I know. What do you think about the food? The food was amazing. Yeah. Like the pancakes with the corn in it. Yeah. That was really good. Yeah. They did a good job and it's so nice of Subaru and Rune Management, you know, cause they're

[02:36:10] working in partnership and to, to bring out the chefs and have them prepare these meals for us. And then, like you said, the, the common areas and the way they have all the tables set up, it just brings everybody together and, you know. To just talk and meet new people. Yeah. Yeah. So it's been. I definitely can't go for seconds, you know. I know. Yeah. I know they, they plan for a certain number of people. So for everybody to have at least one meal, but it's like, is there anything left over there? I want some more. Yeah. Yeah. It's been so good.

[02:36:39] Yeah. Yeah. But yeah, I mean, it's been, it's been an overall good experience. And like last night, you know, it was Emily's birthday. The camp host is in a couple of days saying happy birthday to her. That was super cool. Happy birthday again, Emily. Yeah. Happy birthday. Yeah. So, I mean, she did a great job, you know, and it's cool having Luno here yesterday to talk about their mattresses and do a little demonstration and stuff. So it's just great. Everything that they have set up. Yeah. And I like the party that we had last night as well. Yeah.

[02:37:09] I don't normally dance, but, you know, where else do you get to go out and dance at camp? You know? Yeah. Yeah. With other like-minded people. They definitely make it fun for everybody, which is nice, you know, because they, Subaru appreciates, you know, what we're doing with our car and they just, they just appreciate their customers, you know, and they, they want to show their appreciation for us being Subaru owners and they recognize our passion. And so like, Hey, let's do something for the community. Yeah. And I think that's great.

[02:37:38] So, you know, with, with Joe, this being kind of his, um, his baby, you know, and like his project, I have a feeling, well, he's wanting to expand it and maybe do more stuff. So that'd be exciting to see what else comes about. Yeah. I'd like to see that. Yeah. Yeah. But man, it was great meeting you and seeing you again. Oh yeah. And, uh, you know, hopefully I'll see you around again at some point because it's always fun when I have an opportunity to travel and go out and see people. Yeah. Thanks for coming. Yeah. You're welcome. All right. I'll talk to you later. All right.

[02:38:08] Thanks, man. All right. So I'm standing here with Ephraim, correct? Correct. All right. Yeah. You're welcome. So we're here at Overland Expo PNW 2026. So, uh, why don't you let us know like what year your Outback is here? Um, so got the 2020, um, Onyx edition. It's a XT by default. Nice.

[02:38:31] Um, and when I ordered it, I ordered it, uh, with the LP Avenger kits that I ordered and send it right to my dealership, which was kind enough to install it along with, uh, with a two inch lift and, uh, all the armor underneath and the bumper, um, guards and everything. Okay. And I got some method wheels with some Pirellis that I researched, uh, and I sent those to the dealership as well.

[02:38:59] I got five of them, so I do a Jeep rotation. Yeah. Nice. Yeah. So I got those on there and it's kind of simple, but does the job. It's clean. Yeah. Yeah. So, uh, I was talking to you before we started recording, you said this is your first time to Overland Expo here. Correct. Yeah. It can be a little overwhelming, but it's, it's an amazing place. Uh, especially, um, you know, you get a lot of ideas. You could see what's out there from, you know, some basic toolkits like for people

[02:39:29] like me that might want to get a few convenient items for the Subaru, like throw it in the back on a camp trip or, you know, people looking to that could afford like sprinter vans or something, you know, you got it and everything in between. So it's, it's pretty cool. Um, you know, it's definitely, uh, an event that I would visit again over and over, uh, pretty happy about it.

[02:39:53] And the fact that, uh, the Subaru, um, base camp ended up being, you know, together with the event is, uh, and being invited for that was, uh, I'm very grateful for that. The two events compliment each other really well. So I'm pretty happy about that. Yeah. Yeah. So I know that you are a Subaru ambassador previously, cause that was a previous program and now you're a Subi crew. Correct.

[02:40:20] Uh, so kind of talk a little bit about your role with Subi crew and what you're doing right now. Um, yeah. So I was lucky enough to get selected. Uh, when I first moved out here from, I'm originally from New Jersey, New York. So, Oh yeah. Wow. Yeah. You're opposite coast, man. I drove out here with my mom in my 2000 Forester back in the day of five speed. Yeah. I loaded that thing up through a cargo box up top and me and my mom did a road trip for like 11 days cross country. That's super cool.

[02:40:50] Yeah. I was really, cause I'm real close to my mom. So like, how do you drive across the country with your mom? You know, it wasn't a problem for us. We was really good bonding. That's great. And, um, and you know, I came out here and, you know, after about a year, I saw this ambassador program initially and I didn't know anybody out here and stuff. I had a few friends, but, um, and when I got selected, it was a, it was a great experience. It got me connected.

[02:41:16] It got me, you know, like-minded people, you know, and it opened up horizons. So, and then I did that, obviously that was like 2015. So I've been in the master for a long time. Yeah. It got quiet a little bit because they were rebranding and then they did some questionnaires and stuff. And, um, and you know, some of the people I knew at SOA to encourage me to apply for a certain path.

[02:41:41] And then I ended up getting selected as a director of my chapter, which is the Northern Washington chapter and Alaska, but apparently there's nobody in Alaska. So it's mainly the North, North, uh, Washington. Okay. And, um, yeah. How often do you get up to Alaska, buddy? Yeah. Not too often. You know, it's still very new, but I think, you know, talking to some of the, some of the other chapters and stuff, you know, every area and all the different people it's, you

[02:42:09] know, you get different dynamics, but speaking about my own chapter, I like to say that I got pretty lucky because some of the people that I've gotten, uh, that are also here, they're already part of their own like groups that they've created, like Mount Subi and such. And, and they're all very, very active. So like before I even come up with ideas with my lead, who's also a very helpful person, um, it makes our leadership role quite easy.

[02:42:40] Um, I mean, we give our, you know, we're, I'm on my leads a little bit older and I'm on the older side. So like, you know, we got that kind of life experience. So like, uh, to like give some different perspective, you know, on some ideas, but otherwise it's almost like on autopilot. They're already the, it's a younger crowd, but they're very active crowds. So that's really good. Yeah. So they got a lot of energy and they're constantly like every, it almost feels like every week

[02:43:07] or every couple of weeks they're driving somewhere and everything. So, and they're just channeling it through the program now, like by creating an event. Yeah. And, you know, if Subaru could help out, they do. And it's, you know, and yeah, they have a lot of good support. So like, because now I, you know, the, the old program was quite huge and it wasn't always

[02:43:30] effective or, you know, the, I guess not every member was as, as equally effective where right now it's, it seems like it's a, it's a fraction of that. And, um, and it's like more quality over quantity. So yeah, I think it's a lot more focused too and intentional. Yeah. And I, and I, I think that structure is way better because when you do create events, it allows Subaru to actually get involved and assist you in any way they can anywhere.

[02:43:59] I think from like, if it's financial sport or, or gear or everything from that to, um, like if it's big enough where they feel like, oh, maybe we'll send a few guys out and like let Subaru actually helps you sponsor it like officially or something like it could, it could get that big or it could be as little bit. It was like, here's a little stipend, take care of this stuff. Or here we sent you a case of, you know, lanyards or whatever it might be, you know, and, and

[02:44:27] just, it'll help out everything from like a little coffee, uh, event to a car show event or, you know, planting trees or whatever you want to, you know, come up with. And, and a lot of it you could take away if you were very active ambassador, you know, you already established some contacts between not just dealerships, but like organizations and stuff, you know, cause I was initially like, you know, getting in since I didn't

[02:44:53] know a lot of people when I came out, you know, it, it was a great opportunity and, you know, a single and I was definitely younger, you know, and I was just, I was very active. You know, I went to everything from the motorsport events to, you know, planting trees with the nonprofits and, or I would go to all the dealership events. And then I got really good close relationship with Pialop of Subaru Pialop, which is my great dealership. Yeah. Um, and it's great when the dealerships are involved with it too, because that definitely helps.

[02:45:23] Not, and it's a shame that not all of them understand or acknowledge the program. Like there was, because I skip literally five dealerships to go to Pialop. Like it's an hour away from me, you know, but I'm willing to do that because of the, their understanding of the program, their willingness to work with us. They appreciate the help when they had events, you know, pre COVID we're really active with them.

[02:45:50] But after COVID it kind of slowed down obviously, but I think it's starting to pick up a little bit. They're starting to do some more public events where we could get involved. And yeah, it's nice. It's nice to be able to retain that active relationship. Absolutely. So coming out here to Overland Expo and then being invited to Subaru Basecamp, like what was your first impression pulling into the basecamp?

[02:46:18] Cozy, I think is a good word. Yeah, definitely. You know, like these, and like really promoting some of the gear that sometimes they associate with or partners they have. It's pretty cool. Like the solo pal refrigerators and stuff. And then the little couches they've got over there. Yeah. So like it's extremely inviting and they got these, like the gas powered fire pits and stuff. Like, uh, it worked out. Like I, I like it. And they built the whole trailer for it, you know, to be able to take it everywhere.

[02:46:48] And it's actually an entity of its own that's growing. Just the whole setup with being able to bring all these different Subaru owners together with like, you know, the long tables and then the food. Dude, how, how's the food been? Dude. And I'm a foodie man. And it's like, they were just very accommodating and not only vegetarian, but I think naturally, I think by default, they were making food that's, I think, gluten free. I'm not sure.

[02:47:16] I didn't actually ask, but like, you know, like the, the rice, the eggs, they were phenomenal. Everything that they cook is just like, I mean, they're professional chefs, which is great to like, so for Subaru and, and Rune Management to like bring out a professional chef for this is like pretty amazing. And then just everything that they've set up here, it's like so great. But going back to the Subi, uh, base camp, uh, I really liked the idea.

[02:47:43] I told Sean, I was like, if it's in this area all the way out to like Wyoming, Washington, Idaho, um, Utah, even I was like, you know, send me an invite. I, you know, I wouldn't mind taking, you know, in the future, um, some vacation days and driving out because I, I would do this quite a bit, uh, you know, as they attach themselves to maybe different events or just on their own, bringing Subaru owners together just to camp and have some events created around it.

[02:48:11] It'd be, uh, I think, uh, it's only going to get better and bigger. So what are your thoughts in the, uh, on the booth over there, the Subaru booth? You know, it's nice. Um, seeing some of the vehicles that some of them are, uh, the owners are like the new people I met through my chapter. It's nice seeing those out there and, um, you know, they got a good setup there. They got the classes hosting there with the chairs and stuff and, uh, seeing your friends

[02:48:39] actually teaching courses because they're so involved. It's, uh, it's nice. It's encouraging. And it's, it's like the, um, the community of Subaru, uh, you know, the groups and the owners like giving back to their own, you know, community of owners and friends. So it's, it's good. I had to come alone this time. And, uh, and I was, uh, a little intimidated, but my fiance had some other obligations, but she was like very encouraging.

[02:49:06] And she's like, please go like, you know, it's your type of thing. It's your, you know, you're going to like it. It's, you know, and, uh, I'm glad she did too. And it felt good to have, you know, be supportive in that. Cause I was a little, yeah. And it was a little intimidating only because like, it was a six and a half hour drive. Like I left basically at midnight, you know, on Thursday to get here. I did, uh, I did the crater lake drive, you know, as a launch event, you know, I got invited to that. So I, um, that was awesome.

[02:49:36] So what was that like? Cause I did the other, I did the off-road drive with Milton and Carrie. So tell us about that experience, because since I didn't go on that, I want to get some feedback on what the crater lake experience was like. It's long. Yeah. So the drive is long, but like, and you gain, it's a big elevation gain to like my cooler and that actually like sealed, you know, I had to like air it out to release some pressure. Yeah. Uh, but, uh, yeah, you go up to about 7,300 feet, 7,400 feet.

[02:50:05] Um, nice views. Oh yeah. So, you know, we only really had time for like, I think three stops. One of them being like the visitor center, which is nice. The viewpoints were nice. We did two viewpoint. The visitor center is like a reverse look on the other, the first point we looked at. So, um, you get two different perspectives. Yeah. It's literally a giant crater that filled up with water. Oh, okay. But I mean, some of the impressive facts about it are apparently it's one of the deepest lakes, I guess. Oh, wow.

[02:50:35] If not the deepest lake, like the deepest points, like almost 2,000 feet. Wow. Like 19 something. That's crazy. Yeah. So, um, so it's impressive in that sense. And I didn't believe him. Like when they said there's these butterflies constantly, like if you leave your windows open, they'll just like fill up your car. Oh, yeah. And, uh, on the first stop when I got out, I mean, there was just butterflies everywhere, which is cool. Like, you know, it's pretty. Yeah. And then they were like, you know, land on your car and stuff.

[02:51:03] But, uh, yeah, it was, it was kind of interesting. You got these like chipmunk like animals and stuff. Like when you go to Mount Rainier and stuff. Oh, yeah. Yeah. The drive itself is, um, it's tarmac, right? So it's not like gravel or off road. So, uh, it's, it's easy in that sense. Like it's a little bit more relaxing. It's just elevation gains. So your car might like, you know, want more breathing. Yeah. But, uh, um, other than that, yeah.

[02:51:28] Um, I would probably try the off road one next time, you know, because this car could definitely handle it. Oh yeah. Yeah. We had a, I think we had maybe three or four stock vehicles that did just fine. So it was fun. Not as long of a drive, but yeah, it was fun. And it's like, what would you say over with the Subaru booth and the expo? Like, what would you say is like kind of your favorite thing over there? Honestly, I mean, it's a pretty standard booth.

[02:51:57] Like even at like auto shows that I've been to, like Subaru's, you know, they kind of go, you know, big. Yeah. You know, like, especially at auto shows, they'll have like off road setups and stuff where a car's like kind of like hanging off of like fake mountain terrain or something like that. Um, and it's not that big and elaborate, but it's, you know, it's presence is known.

[02:52:18] So, and having those nice, uh, um, diverse customized vehicles is a pleasant sight to the eye or whatever you want to say that. Um, so like, I, I, I appreciate that. And, uh, I think what's cool is that it's, they don't just bring their own like stock inventory. I mean, there's like the new trail brazil, which is cool. Yeah.

[02:52:44] Um, but like that, it just by default shows you how Subaru is appreciative of their owners and what they do. So by having like custom owner vehicles there and, and how they made their vehicles and what they do with them. Um, and then the, you know, the rebel rally, a vehicle and stuff like having those there, it just shows you the diversity of Subaru and, and their support for the community.

[02:53:12] So it's not like, Oh, here's our cars, you know, let's just promote our, you know, product line. Yeah. Let's show we, cause like it's great that they are very supportive of what their owners are doing and like, let's show it all. Yeah, exactly. So I appreciate that angle of the booth. Yeah. Um, and not just be like, here's our, you know, here's a, here's this trim or here's our new electric car.

[02:53:39] I mean, the trail, I think the trails seeker. Yeah. Yeah. I think I called a blazer. Let's not mention that. Um, but yeah, the trail seeker, I was excited to see that. I know initially, uh, Sean, you know, from our event management, um, he had driven it out and it was, it was nice to see. I mean, that thing, um, you know, it's, uh, you know, maintaining the preservation of

[02:54:05] the, the wagon style, you know, as our outbought the outback, the new gen turned into a little bit more of a, more of an SUV look than the wagon look. But I'm glad there's at least a couple of cars that are still maintaining a bit of a wagon. Yeah. Cause there's, there's, uh, some owners like us that appreciate the, the station wagon, you know, but, um, yeah.

[02:54:32] What would you say is your favorite aspect or thing about the base camp here? I think it's, it's very inviting for like community, like being able to just sit next to strangers and start a conversation. Yeah. It's like, it feels like family and, and I feel like the setup encourages that. Cause they've intentionally put spaces together where people kind of almost have to come and sit together. And I know a lot of people are meeting people for the first time, you know, and it's, that's really cool.

[02:55:02] Yeah. As we mentioned before, the, the, the, the catering is phenomenal. Yeah. Yeah. I think that's, you know, the fact that they do that when they, when I first got the invite was like, Hey, we're taking care of everything. You're just saying, you know, be able to sit down. Uh, we'll have, uh, you know, beverages, catered breakfast and dinner, uh, you know, and a space where you could in community where you could, you know, communicate and share space with, with your fellow owners and stuff.

[02:55:31] And I was like, you know, when I reached out to Sean, I was like, well, what do I bring? He's like, just bring camp gear, bro. Yeah. I mean, it's, it's amazing that they're taking care of so many things, you know, it's like, it's pretty awesome. Yeah. So, you know, I found out, I met Emily and found out about Emily as well. And, um, you know, her being part, like providing yoga and, you know, being a, being a point

[02:55:58] of contact for the event and stuff. And, um, you know, she's extremely helpful to like, like once again, like super, like outsourcing some really unique resources and individuals that are fully not from like an individual level, like Emily to like a business to like, you know, a company. Well, thanks for hopping on the mic with me and chatting. Yeah. It was nice meeting you. I appreciate the, you know, the chat, you know, it's always, uh, you know,

[02:56:28] and good luck with the podcast. Thank you. Um, I seen you doing a lot of work out here. So yeah, thank you. All right. Thanks. Yeah. Cool. Yeah, we did it. Thank you, sir. All right. Okay. So here with another interview at Overland Expo PNW 2026, why don't you go ahead and introduce yourself for everybody. I'm Robert Ray. And this is my 25 Forrester Wilderness.

[02:56:58] Very nice. Anything else you? Yeah. So is this, is this your first time at Overland Expo PNW? I've actually been to all the Overland Expo PNWs. Okay. But this is my first time with Subaru. Nice. Nice. So, um, what has your experience been like? Like, like let's say like when you first rolled up and you saw the whole setup here for base camp, like what were your first thoughts with that? Wow. Yeah. Yeah. It's a, it's a really nice setup.

[02:57:24] Um, so like what were some of your favorite aspects of everything that they have going on here? No, my favorite thing is just the, I'm sure everybody's saying the same thing. My favorite thing is the community. Yeah. Yeah. All the new friends I've made. Yeah. Just hanging out with everybody by the fires. Yeah. Eating amazing food. Oh, the food. Yes. Yeah. Yeah. That's right up there too. Yeah.

[02:57:50] I mean, the whole purpose of this was really to like for Subaru to bring people together that, you know, probably most likely haven't met each other and just to show appreciation for our love of the brand, you know, like, Hey, we know you all love the brand. We know you enjoy your Subarus and love them. So we want to do something for the community. And I think that's been pretty great. Yeah. So, um, like I'm guessing you met a lot of new people here at the event. Yeah. Yeah.

[02:58:17] Did you happen to meet anybody that happens to like live close to you and you didn't realize it? No, not really. Okay. All right. Um, what would you say is like, besides the community, like where are the, any other aspects here that you really enjoyed about the whole setup? Ah, the trail run. Yeah. We did. Yeah. That was a lot of fun. Did you do the one that was off-road? Yeah, I did the off-road. Okay. That's what I thought. Yeah. Yeah.

[02:58:44] Did you, so when we were going up to the bowl, I know they said you can either take the lower easier pass or the little bit more difficult one, which one did you end up taking? I did the easier. Oh, okay. Yeah. Yeah. The one that was like a little bit more difficult. It wasn't too bad. I took the, uh, loaner that I had, which was a 26 Forester Wilderness and it did a great job, but that was, uh, that was a lot of fun going out there. A lot of dust, but, uh, you know, still pretty cool. So, um, I'm usually running trail solo.

[02:59:14] So it was so nice to do it in a group. Yeah. It's, I mean, it's, it's great getting out on your own because then you can kind of go wherever you want to go and do your own thing. But then it's also great being with other people because then like you get a chance to like hang out, you know, when you stop and stuff like that. That's fun. So talk a little bit about your kitchen set up here. So this is made by Compass Campers. Okay.

[02:59:39] It's, uh, it's a combination drawer system and sleeping platform. Yeah. Which is really nice. And yeah, it's got, as you can see, lots of pullout tables, cutting board. Yeah. And I liked how this folds up and then stainless steel part here. So the stove doesn't heat it up too much. Oh, that's really nice. I like that. Yeah. And then I saw like, you've got your refrigerator underneath, you know, that's really cool. You taking off. Yes, sir. Yeah. It's nice meeting you, man.

[03:00:10] Yeah. Um, yeah. So that's a really nice setup and I like the Forester Wilderness, you know, it's, it comes equipped with the, um, all-terrain tires and a little bit higher of a lift, you know, so it's a nice setup. Uh, as far as like the, um, the Subaru booth over there, like, what were you, what was your impression about that? Great. Yeah. Anything specific about it that like stood out to you? I'd love all the owner vehicles. Yeah. Yeah. It's nice seeing those over there.

[03:00:37] It's like, you get a chance to see like what different people are doing with them and especially like people coming through the booth that can see like what you can do to a Subaru, which I think surprises some people. And it's great that Subaru's, you know, promoting. Yeah. Yeah. Doing stuff and not just keeping our car completely stock. Yeah. Oh, and it's great too, that they're like, you know, not afraid to like bring in owner vehicles

[03:01:03] and show that like, you can take this vehicle that we built as a stock vehicle and do some really amazing things with it. You know, it's great that they support what we're doing with them. So that's fun. What would, what would you say is like your favorite thing at the booth over there? Ah, well, the classes have all been great. Yeah. Yeah. Classes were nice. Any particular one that you liked? Ah, well, they've all been great. Yeah. Yeah. Did you get a chance to meet Brianna? Yeah. Yes. The one with Brianna.

[03:01:33] Yeah. It was awesome. Yeah. That was a lot of fun. Yeah. It's cool. Cause she talks a lot about what she's doing as a co-driver and like her experience with Travis Pastrana, which is a lot of fun to see that. Yeah. I really didn't know anything about rally driving until her class. So that was, that was a lot of fun. Yeah. Yeah. She's, uh, she's been doing it for a long time. She's been doing it with Travis for a long time now. And, uh, it's cool. It's so nice of her to like stick around to and hang out with everybody. Yeah. That was fun. Yeah.

[03:02:03] So, um, yeah, this is a great event. And I mean, you know, since you said you've been coming to all of them now getting a chance to experience it with Subaru, I'm sure it's like a cool experience. Oh yeah. Way better. Yeah. Yeah. So, well, thanks, you know, for hopping on the mic and sharing your experience. You know, it was great meeting you, Robert. Yeah. Nice meeting you. Okay. Thank you. All right. So if you made it this far, thank you so much for listening to this whole episode. I told you it was going to be long, but I had a lot of fun getting all these interviews and talking to these people.

[03:02:32] And I am extremely grateful to Subaru of America and to Joe for bringing me out so that I could capture these conversations because these are the kinds of things that I want to be, or I want other people to be able to hear and share with the Subaru community. And of course, with Subaru of America. So again, thank you so much. I really appreciate it. Everybody had a great time. Again, if you haven't been to Overland Expo, I highly recommend it. If you can make it out to one that's near you or far away, just go.

[03:03:02] But anyway, thanks again. Hope you all have a wonderful weekend. We'll see you on Monday for a regular episode. Much Subi love. Raf. The Subi and You podcast is hosted by Raphael in a closet in Houston, produced by Raphael in a room next to the closet in Houston, and edited by Raphael on a computer in the room next to the closet in Houston, with music by Luke Ruiz in another room in Houston.

[03:03:28] You can find the Subi and You podcast wherever you listen to podcasts, including Apple Podcast, Spotify, and many more. To support the podcast, please head over to patreon.com slash subiandyoupodcast. Once you join, you will have access to the Discord channel and Discord chats with other patrons. If you'd like to get in contact with the show, you can find them on Instagram at subiandyoupodcast, online at subiandyoupodcast.com, or by email, subiandyoupodcast at gmail.com.

[03:03:57] That's all for this week.