--- title: Campfire Chat | ZOLEO --- [![ZOLEO 2026 logo plus tagline-1](https://go.zoleo.com/hs-fs/hubfs/ZOLEO%202026%20logo%20plus%20tagline-1.png?width=300&height=84&name=ZOLEO%202026%20logo%20plus%20tagline-1.png "ZOLEO 2026 logo plus tagline-1")](https://www.zoleo.com) # ZOLEO Campfire Chats ### Weather Preparedness & Decision-Making in the Backcountry đŸ—“ïž September 17 | 1 PM ET / 11 AM MT / 10 AM PT | Microsoft Teams [Save My Seat](https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/8584cda5-1106-4674-9fc2-876f43c187af@0d8ec7a6-27fb-467b-8d34-21f98ea797da) ![Ryan-Jordan-4](https://go.zoleo.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Ryan-Jordan-4.jpg?width=643&height=723&name=Ryan-Jordan-4.jpg) When it comes to severe weather planning, knowing how to make better decisions when forecasts are uncertain, and conditions continue to evolve is a game changer. Ryan Jordan returns to Campfire Chats to show how climate signals, route-specific forecasts, terrain, gear and fast-moving hazards can be turned into a practical plan for the field. **You'll learn how to:** - Use major climate signals, including a possible Super El Niño, without treating them as a trip-specific forecast - Build a forecast around your route, elevation and terrain instead of the nearest town - Read ranges, thresholds, confidence and timing instead of relying on a single prediction - Match gear to the credible range of conditions while balancing weight and preparedness - Set decision gates for starting earlier, changing camps, choosing a lower route, turning around or altering the plan - Update the plan when wildfire, smoke, closures or other fast-moving hazards change the evidence **Live demonstration:** Ryan will start with a GPX route in a fresh AI session and show how to identify terrain and forecast locations, find authoritative evidence, expose uncertainty and translate the result into route, timing and equipment decisions. **You’ll leave with a repeatable process:** Route -> Evidence -> Uncertainty -> Decision -> Update [Save My Seat](https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/8584cda5-1106-4674-9fc2-876f43c187af@0d8ec7a6-27fb-467b-8d34-21f98ea797da) --- *Plan for changing conditions, even in severe weather.* ![Ryan-Jordan-2](https://go.zoleo.com/hubfs/Ryan-Jordan-2.jpg "Ryan-Jordan-2") ### About the Speaker Ryan Jordan is the founder and publisher of Backpacking Light. For more than 30 years, he has studied and taught backcountry gear, safety and decision-making, bringing technical evidence together with practical field use. Ryan was the first guest to join ZOLEO Campfire Chats. In this return session, he builds on that earlier conversation about off-trail risk management with a closer look at weather preparedness and the decisions that shape a backcountry trip. ### Speaker Bio **Ryan Jordan** has spent more than 35 years helping people explore the outdoors more safely and efficiently. With a Ph.D. in engineering from Montana State University, Ryan combines scientific expertise with decades of experience as a wilderness guide, educator, and expedition leader. He is a trusted voice in outdoor safety, risk management, and ultralight gear systems across all seasons. He is known for translating complex research in physiology, psychology, and gear engineering into practical tools that help hikers, hunters, skiers, overlanders, and other adventurers make smarter decisions in challenging environments. For this session, Ryan will bring his unique blend of science and field experience to help participants — whether beginners or seasoned backcountry travelers -- understand how to manage risk, stay safe, and thrive when traveling off-trail. --- # Campfire Chats Giveaway  Join us and you’ll automatically be entered for a chance to win a **Backpacking Light Unlimited Membership** and a **ZOLEO Swag Pack**! *No purchase necessary. Open to residents of countries where ZOLEO operates. Must be 18 years or older and attend the live session to qualify.* *One entry per person. Winner(s) will be selected by random draw on or about September18, 2026, and notified by email. Void where prohibited by law. Backpacking Light Unlimited Membership valued at US$195/ CA$269 and ZOLEO Swag Pack valued at US$40 / CA$55.* [*View full details and eligibility*](https://www.zoleo.com/en-ca/giveaway). --- ## Exclusive Giveaways for Attendees #### Win a Backpacking Light Membership and ZOLEO Swag! #### Win a Backpacking Light Membership and Exclusive ZOLEO Swag! Every attendee will be entered for a chance to win a **free Backpacking Light membership** — unlocking expert articles, training, and gear insights — **plus exclusive ZOLEO-branded swag** to fuel your next adventure. *For complete giveaway details and eligibility requirements, visit [zoleo.com/giveaway](https://www.zoleo.com/giveaway)* ![gift_icon_image_AI_600x600](https://go.zoleo.com/hs-fs/hubfs/gift_icon_image_AI_600x600.png?width=600&height=600&name=gift_icon_image_AI_600x600.png) ## Win a Backpacking Light Membership + Exclusive ZOLEO Swag! Every attendee is entered for a chance to win a **Backpacking Light membership** — unlocking expert articles, training, and gear insights —** plus ZOLEO-branded swag** to fuel your next adventure. *For complete giveaway details and eligibility requirements, visit [zoleo.com/giveaway](https://www.zoleo.com/giveaway)* ![](https://48752163.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/48752163/raw_assets/cms-elevate-theme/master/2256/js_client_assets/assets/engagement-DJyT7C4h.png) ## About Campfire Chats Pull up a seat by the fire. **ZOLEO Campfire Chats** brings our community together with outdoor experts to share stories, skills, and safety insights that build confidence for every adventure.  **Why join Campfire Chats?**  - Expert guidance and live Q&A’s with seasoned pros - Community connection with fellow adventurers - ZOLEO giveaways every session  *Just like your trusted ZOLEO device, Campfire Chats are designed to give you all the tools you need to explore with confidence.*  ![gift_icon_image_AI_600x600](https://go.zoleo.com/hs-fs/hubfs/gift_icon_image_AI_600x600.png?width=300&height=300&name=gift_icon_image_AI_600x600.png "gift_icon_image_AI_600x600") ### 🎁 Campfire Chats Giveaway Join us live on **October 23, 2025 (12–1 PM MT)** for our next Campfire Chats and you’ll automatically be entered into the **Campfire Chats Giveaway** for a chance to **win a Backpacking Light Membership and a ZOLEO Swag Pack!**   *No purchase necessary. Open to residents of countries where ZOLEO operates. Must be 18 years or older and attend the live session to qualify.* *One entry per person. Winner will be selected by random draw on or about October 27, 2025, and notified by email. Void where prohibited by law.*   *For complete giveaway details and eligibility requirements, visit [zoleo.com/giveaway](https://www.zoleo.com/giveaway)* ### About Campfire Chats Pull up a seat by the campfire. ZOLEO Campfire Chats are live expert sessions for everyday adventurers, built to help you plan smarter, travel safer, and feel ready when you’re off-grid. ### Why join? - Live expert guidance and Q&A you can apply on your next trip - A community that values preparedness, safety, and confidence - Member-only giveaways for ZOLEO users *ZOLEO is built for off-grid confidence. Campfire Chats helps you build the skills to match.* [Save My Seat](https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/8584cda5-1106-4674-9fc2-876f43c187af@0d8ec7a6-27fb-467b-8d34-21f98ea797da) **Invite someone who wants to make better weather calls in the backcountry by sharing this page.** ## Reserve Your Spot at Future Campfire Chats ### Lessons from the Edge: Real Search and Rescue Case Studies Learn from real missions and how quick decisions make the difference. ### Winter Survival Skills: Training for Cold Weather Master the essentials of staying safe when the temperature drops. ### Gear Essentials and Common Mistakes Avoid pitfalls and pack smart with field-tested gear advice. Don’t miss out on what’s next. Sign up now to save your seat at upcoming events and get first access to replays, resources, and giveaways.  [Register Today](https://go.zoleo.com/campfire-chat-zoleo#form-banner) ## Frequently Asked Questions Who can attend? Campfire Chats are free for ZOLEO users and their guests. You are encouraged to invite a friend or loved one who is interested in staying safe and prepared while adventuring off-grid. How do I join? Simply [register](https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/8584cda5-1106-4674-9fc2-876f43c187af@0d8ec7a6-27fb-467b-8d34-21f98ea797da) on this page. You’ll receive a confirmation email with a Microsoft Teams link to join the live session. How long are the sessions?  Campfire Chat sessions run about an hour, including time for live Q&A with the guest speaker.  Do I need my ZOLEO device during the chat?  No. You do not need your device to join the session. Will sessions be recorded?  Yes. The recording will be shared with registered participants after the session. Do I need prior experience?  Not at all. Campfire Chats are designed for a range of experience levels, from newer adventurers to experienced backcountry travellers. Can I suggest topics or speakers?  Absolutely. After the event, you will receive a short survey where you can share feedback and ideas for future sessions. Is there a cost to attend?  No. Campfire Chats are free for ZOLEO users and their guests. Will I get to interact with the speaker?  Yes. The session includes live Q&A so you can ask Ryan about weather, route planning, gear and changing conditions. ## Stay Connected with Us   Copyright © 2026 ZOLEO Inc. All rights reserved.