Most travelers walk away from a guided trip thinking, “That was amazing”—but they have no idea what it actually took to make it feel that way. In Part 2 of my conversation with former REI Guide of the Year Chris Anderson, we go behind the curtain to uncover what guides really do: How REI tried to flip the script and treat guiding as a real career—and why that model didn’t survive The long hours, behind-the-scenes prep, and emotional labor that guests never see The broken tipping culture—and why it puts guides in a tough, awkward position What it really means to serve 10+ guests for 14+ hours a day with zero margin for error How underprepared guests affect group dynamics, safety, and morale The impossible math behind seasonal contracts, no PTO, and $100 day rates Why the best guides make you feel like the trip ran itself—and how much effort that actually takes If you’ve ever been on a guided trip—or plan to—this episode will change how you see your guide forever. 🎧 Start listening now—and maybe rethink that tip envelope. Check out the LinkedIn post from Chris that sparked this two-part series… Ask Me How To Get Fit For Your Next Hike, Trek or Backpacking Trip: https://fitfortrips.com/consultation/ Get Your 3 Free 12-Week Hiking Training Plans: https://fitfortrips.com/free-hiking-training-plan/ LIKE & SUBSCRIBE for new videos: https://www.youtube.com/@HikeStrongPodcast Check out the audio podcast version on all platforms: https://fitfortrips.com/hikestrongpodcast
