『GPS Training Podcast』のカバーアート

GPS Training Podcast

GPS Training Podcast

著者: Jon Monks GPS Training and reviews
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概要

Keeping you up to date with everything going on in the world of outdoor GPS navigation 政治・政府
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  • GPS Training Podcast – number 122
    2026/03/01

    GPS Training Podcast – Episode 122

    **Interview with Martin Overton, Founder of TalkyToaster Maps**

    In this episode, we sit down with **Martin Overton**, the founder of TalkyToaster Maps, to explore the story behind one of the most detailed and widely used third-party map providers for Garmin GPS devices.

    1. What Are TalkyToaster Maps?

    Martin explains what TalkyToaster maps are and who they’re designed for. With over 500 maps covering almost every country and updated monthly, TalkyToaster provides highly detailed, Garmin-compatible maps built using OpenStreetMap data and NASA elevation models.

    We discuss how these maps differ from standard Garmin topographic maps. TalkyToaster maps often include additional detail such as:

    * Field boundaries
    * Stiles, gates and benches
    * Water points
    * Enhanced footpath routing
    * Frequent updates

    For many walkers, hikers and geocachers, this extra detail improves confidence and navigation accuracy, especially in rural and remote areas.

    We also explore why users choose TalkyToaster over official Garmin mapping. Cost, routing accuracy, map freshness and level of detail all play a part.

    2. Martin’s Journey from Cybersecurity to Cartography

    Martin shares his fascinating background in IT and cybersecurity, including over 35 years in computer security and ethical hacking.

    A lifelong outdoor enthusiast who grew up hiking mountains such as Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis, Martin combined his technical expertise with his love of the outdoors after buying his first Garmin GPS for geocaching in 2008.

    Frustrated with the mapping available at the time, he began creating his own. What started as a hobby quickly evolved into TalkyToaster Maps.

    We talk about:

    * The early days of map-making
    * The learning curve from cybersecurity into digital cartography
    * How programming skills and technical thinking helped shape the business

    3. The Story Behind the Name (and the Man)

    Yes, the name *TalkyToaster* does come from the Red Dwarf character.

    Martin explains how the name began as a geocaching handle and eventually became the brand itself.

    We also uncover some unexpected sides to Martin:

    * Keeping tarantulas and scorpions
    * Publishing articles for the British Tarantula Society
    * Playing guitar
    * A love of science fiction

    It’s not your typical mapping company backstory.

    4. Supporting Mountain Rescue

    TalkyToaster’s British Isles map operates on a donation basis, helping to raise funds for UK Mountain Rescue teams.

    Martin explains why supporting Mountain Rescue matters to him personally and how the outdoor community benefits from that approach.

    5. For Walkers, Hikers and Tech Enthusiasts

    We round off the conversation by looking at how TalkyToaster maps serve two audiences:

    6. For Outdoor Users

    * Improved trail and footpath coverage
    * OS-style appearance with added detail
    * Reliable routing for walking and hiking
    * Regular updates

    7. For Tech-Focused GPS Users

    * Built from OpenStreetMap and NASA elevation data
    * Garmin-compatible formatting
    * Monthly updates across 500+ maps
    * Technical challenges behind contour generation and routing

    We also discuss device compatibility, installation options, and how TalkyToaster caters for both plug-and-play users and those who prefer full manual installation.

    This episode is ideal for anyone using Garmin GPS devices who wants better mapping, greater detail and a deeper understanding of what sits behind the screen when navigating outdoors.

    If you enjoy your navigation with a side of geeky detail and real outdoor passion, this one is well worth a listen.

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    1 時間 4 分
  • GPS Training Podcast – number 121
    2026/02/04
    Big news from Suunto, updated UK Grid reference finder, the end of the Garmin GPSMAP67 and Andy’s top tips. 1. 90 Years of Suunto Suunto was founded in 1936, celebrating 90 years in 2026Anniversary marked with the Suunto Vertical Titanium Limited EditionOnly 1,936 units worldwideJust 22 coming to the UKGPS Training is expecting at least 6 units What makes it special Titanium buildBased on Suunto’s flagship outdoor watchA nod to Suunto’s expedition and navigation heritage, not fashion or hypeThis is a watch for people who actually go outside and use their kit This is one of the most meaningful limited editions Suunto have ever released. Proper heritage, proper scarcity, and a watch that’s actually designed to be used. More information about Suunto’s anniversary can be found here. 2. GPS Training Website Update: UK Grid Reference Finder Improvements What’s changed Nearest postcode now shown, not just exact matchesDistance to nearest postcode displayedShareable link that opens the map at the exact selected location Why it’s useful Convert between: Grid referencesPostcodesLat/longEastings and northingsWhat3Words Ideal for: Finding car park grid refsSharing locations with friendsDropping accurate points into a GPS You can look at the UK Grid Reference Finder online here. 3. The Last GPSMAP 67 Sold: A Handheld GPS Milestone GPS Training has now sold the last GPSMAP 67Marks the end of a hugely important handheld range Brief history GPSMAP 66s October 2018First appearance of this case design GPSMAP 66i InReach satellite communication added GPSMAP 66sr Multi-band GNSS for improved accuracy GPSMAP 67 / 67i Refinement rather than reinvention Why this range mattered Rock-solid reliabilityPhysical buttonsBig improvement in screen and battery over older modelsTrusted by walkers, mountaineers, and professionals Garmin GPSMAP67i – more here 4. Andy’s Top Tips Suunto Web Based Route planner: Did you know Suunto have a web-based Route Planner routeplanner.suunto.com Rather than the App you can plan on your computer, bigger screen, use a mouse for easeRoutes you plan can be synced to the mobile app with one click of the mouse so that when you open the mobile app they are there to quickly send to your watchOf you plan routes on other software’s on your computer i.e. OS, GPS Training route planner etc or downloaded from websites, rather than email them to yourself to then open and import to app simply import them into web planner and select the upload syncYou can view routes you have planned on the app within the Web planner Online resource – Multi Activity Watches – Suunto Race or Vertical – Module 3 unit 5 Using the Suunto Web browser Route planner Garmin FENIX 8 Pro tip using LTE tracking only £7.99 a month unlimited LTE tracking Using Live Track on Garmin devices in connect app will pull down phone battery, With the new Fenix 8 pro from Garmin you can use LTE tracking on the watch standalone, will use more watch battery but not your phone Make sure in the Connect App More menu – Safety & Tracking – Live Track – Auto start on, you can have show course & spectator messagingThen on the connectivity settings on your watch turn of phone connection and then also in Connectivity settings make sure Garmin Share enabled and on LTE & Satellite Status does include an option with LTE & LTE Mode AutoTested using Fenix 8 Pro 51mm with route navigation and LTE Tracking, Satellites Auto, screen on gesture and would have achieved approx. 28 hrs 16-mile hike only a couple of very small parts, loss of LTE , LTE 4g signal will depend on area
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    34 分
  • GPS Training Podcast – number 120
    2026/01/01
    Getting to Grips with Your GPS in 2026

    In this New Year’s Day episode, we look at one simple question many walkers and runners ask at the start of the year:

    “How do I actually get confident using my GPS?”

    Rather than talking tech for tech’s sake, this episode walks through the practical training options available through GPS Training, helping you choose the right level of support for how you use your GPS.

    What’s covered in this episode

    1. The GPS Training Online Resource – more here

    • 24/7 access to step-by-step training videos
    • Covers current GPS units and older models
    • Ideal if you like learning at your own pace
    • A single GPS unit can have 50+ dedicated videos

    2. One-to-One GPS Training (Zoom or In-Person) – more here

    • Tailored entirely to how you walk, run or navigate
    • Perfect if you want focused help on specific issues
    • Ideal for people short on time or lacking confidence

    3. Two-Day GPS Training Courses (Nationwide) – more here

    • Hands-on, outdoor, practical GPS training
    • Learn route planning, following routes, trackback, and emergency scenarios
    • Designed to build real confidence, not just button-pressing knowledge

    4. Follow-On & Refresher Training, GPS in the hills – more here

    • Options for those who already own a GPS but want to go further
    • Particularly useful if you’ve never fully used your device’s features

    5. Choosing the Right Training for You

    • Advice on matching training options to your experience level
    • Why there’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to GPS learning

    Key takeaway

    Getting the most from your GPS in 2026 isn’t about buying new kit — it’s about understanding the kit you already have. With the right training, a GPS becomes a genuine confidence tool rather than a frustration.

    If you’ve ever thought “I know my GPS does more than I use it for”, this episode is a great place to start.

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    39 分
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