Not only is #VWRadio Featured Artist, Ben Phantom, an amazing singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, videographer and music producer, he is also a long-distance hiker. In 2014, Ben walked from Mexico to Canada, with his guitar and all of his belongings on his back. The 2,668 mile journey transformed Ben and his relationship with music. He began writing songs about his experiences on the hiking trail, as well as his struggles with addiction, depression, love and loss. This diary of songs became the hopeful and inspirational album, Fear Is The Teacher, released in 2019.
On April 15, 2022, Ben will be hitting the hiking trail again and it’s his biggest challenge yet – he will be hiking the entire Continental Divide Trail from Mexico to Canada! And on this hike, every step he takes will be with a very special purpose – to raise awareness for those at risk of, and those recovering from substance use disorder. He’ll be hiking to support the transformational impact that the time on the trail brings. This trek will cover 3,100 miles and offers parallels to those currently challenged by substances and connects to Ben’s own recovery journey, as he celebrates 10 years clean and sober.
*Note: Ben will be posting weekly videos from the trail, so be sure to follow him on social media (see links below) to follow Ben on his incredible journey.
Check out Ben’s video below, where he talks about his upcoming hiking challenge:
VWRadio has created a fundraiser to support Ben on his upcoming venture. Follow Ben’s trek across New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana – from the Southern U.S. border by Chihuahua, Mexico to the Northern border of the U.S. by Alberta, Canada. Hike with Ben and help PIVOT Point WNC outfit therapeutic adventure weekends for at-risk youth and young adults in recovery – providing them with access to the same transformational experiences as Ben!
To donate, click on this secure link here: DONATE
On March 27, 2022, Ben will be performing a farewell show before he hits the trail. This fantastic live send-off show will be held at The Grey Eagle in Asheville, NC. Ben’s musical guests for the evening will be Cynthia MdDermott on electric mandolin, Franklin Keel on electric cello, Patrick Armitage on drums, and Garron Chesson on bass.
Doors open at 6pm and the show starts at 7pm. $12 for advance tickets and $15 at the door. Get your tickets here: Ben Phantom at The Grey Eagle Tickets
Find out more about Ben Phantom at his official website – www.BenPhanMusic.com and follow him via the social media links below:
Listen to the amazing body of musical work by Ben Phantom below:
