Interview with geocaching guru, Andy Smith

Head Hard Hat AKA Andy Smith

It wasn't too long ago I stumbled upon an instructional video on geocaching while I did research for an article. The production quality and presentation of material was exceptional for a do-it-yourself flick. Who was this guy with the engaging narrative and Mike Roe-like humor?

Raleigh, North Carolina resident Andy Smith, takes his hobby to a whole 'nother level. The title of his blog says it all: GeoCache? I"m not Obsessed... Right?

Andy not only loves to "get in touch with his inner pirate", he loves to share his passion and excitement about the sport with others. Using his expertise as a professional trainer, Andy, his wife and teen daughter posted a video on YouTube covering some more advanced aspects of the sport. The response was overwhelming. People sent emails and Tweets asking for more films but for beginners. Recognizing an informational void, the Smiths came up with Geosnippets - a website hosting a collection of video tutorials on geocaching.

Many people love their recreational pursuits but...

Last year Andy bought a Garmin Nuvie for his vehicle. A friend made a passing comment about some treasure hunt thing people were doing with GPS devices. Treasure hunt? The very idea of hunting hidden treasure appealed to Andy's inner pirate.

Andy describes himself as an all-or-nothing type of guy. He had to check out this geocaching thing to see if it was worth his time. The further into the sport he delved, the deeper the obsession - not to mention his love of shiny objects.

Shiny things aside, Andy who goes by Head Hard Hat in the geocaching world, finds the challenge of creative hides most alluring. He loves applying logic and reasoning to his own hides. In addition, Smith enjoys collecting geocoins from all over the world. Geocaching is a global sport. Smith told me he's found that Europeans take it to a whole other level - one he'd like to reach.

Some cachers go for big numbers and statistics. Smith says time \ with his daughter is more important than stats. The younger Smith, through adventures with her dad, is discovering an interest in photography and videography.

Head Hard Hat may be relatively new to the scene of geocaching, but he's making quite an impact. His love for his family and this recreational obsession is contagious. So get off the couch and go explore new places in your neighborhood you've never seen and find some shiny treasure while you're at it.