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Podholic: Dirty deeds

The 4WD Podcast offers an Aussie perspective on off-roading culture and overlanding adventure.

CONTEMPLATING heading off the beaten track? 

The 4WD Podcast could be the ideal companion.

This weekly show from Australia offers exploration of the world of overlanding, mud-running, and off-road escapades.

Ronny Dahl, a well-known YouTuber and off-road enthusiast, and Liam Duggan, an Australian Football League player who co-captains the West Coast Eagles, delve impressively into everything and everything else critical to the off-roading scene across the Tasman.

Listeners can expect humorous dialogue surrounding past overlanding experiences, the best tyre pressures for varying terrains, camping equipment and the intricacies of vehicle placement off-trail. 

Need help determining which vehicle is best for exploring the wilderness? The hosts frequently champion the Toyota 70 Series Land Cruiser (above), revered by many as the king of off-road vehicles. They also show enthusiasm for the classic Nissan Patrols and the new (but ‘old’-looking) Ineos Grenadier (below). 

It is informative, but it appears off-road capability is prioritised over safety and other amenities that would be a deal-breaker if not present in your daily driver.

The show also doesn't shy away from controversial topics, such as the viability of electric vehicles (EVs) for long-distance off-roading. 

Although Dahl and Duggan may seem anti-EV, they present credible concerns about the practicality of EVs in Australia's vast and rugged landscapes​ due to the lack of infrastructure. 

They’re not wrong, but it could have been an opportunity for them to explore future technologies, such as high-density solid-state batteries, that promise to negate their concerns somewhat.

The pod’s relaxed, campfire-style dialogue can sometimes understeer wildly off-topic, which may turn a few listeners off. On the flip side, this casual approach also makes the show feel genuine and engaging, providing a refreshing break from overly scripted content. 

The podcast is available in audio and video formats. The YouTube version features a straightforward round-table setup enhanced by background merchandise. Visually, it’s a little bare, but the content and audio quality make up for it.

The 4WD Podcast Homepage: https://www.youtube.com/the4wdpodcast