Mighty Blue On The Appalachian Trail: The Ultimate Mid-Life Crisis

Bill Tickner, or Mr. President, is a hiker we've been following for some weeks now. When he wanted to respond to the points made by Sandi Marra from the ATC in last week's show, I realized that it was too good an opportunity to miss, so I turned our expected ten-minute catch up into a full interview about both the 2020 hiker's push back to the ATC and more of his hiking and life journey. You can find more about Bill's hiking stories at his blog, https://www.wildernesseffect.com Connect with him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/bill.tickner or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mrpresidenthikes/ In the show, I referred to a hiker I met in 2014, No Pain. He has been missing for nearly a year, so I thought I'd share the poster below in the hope that somebody may recognize him and even know where he is. Please call the numbers on the poster if you know where he can be found. Instead of Bill in the middle part of this week's show, I caught up with Bounce, who is settling, for the time being, in Rangely. Finally today, Fozzie is nearer to Katahdin than he is to Springer, always a magical and awe-inspiring moment. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.

This week, we have Sandi Marra on the show. Sandi is the President and CEO of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and has had to make some tough decisions during the 2020 hiking season. With a longtime love of hiking and volunteerism, Sandi combined both to give most of her life to the Appalachian Trail and its hikers. I wanted to bring her on to the show to find out the thought processes behind the 2020 closures, and she responded with thoughtful and decisive answers. Typically, her choice of links to share with listeners is illuminating. If you want to find out more about the Conservancy, go to https://appalachiantrail.org/. If you want to help, either through volunteering with or joining the organization, go to https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/ or https://donate.appalachiantrail.org/default.aspx?tsid=7709. Mr President is fast discovering the joys of Pennsylvania, delighted that he invested in a fresh pair of shoes before he hit the state. He met up with two old friends and even met a listener. Fozzie's Balancing on Blue reaches the magnificent Virginia Triple Crown of Dragon's Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs. He also bumps into a stranger in need and steps up to help. This week, I got a wonderful surprise in the shape of a beautiful map from a listener, Don Robinson. Listen to how this all developed in the show, but check out https://www.redeftmapping.com/. You won't be disappointed!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.

I was first contacted by today's guest, Ryan Schlosser, when he was preparing for his 2020 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail earlier this year. Ryan's mother is a friend of my friend and hiking partner, Pat Coate, or Tee Bird. Ryan's hike was a school project (imagine that!!) and he needed to record his progress. Pat thought I might be able to help him and a new podcaster was born. I listened to his early progress, then stopped getting updates. He went radio silent in response to the growing pandemic. Eventually, when things eased up a little, he was back online and still heading north. You can learn more about Ryan's story on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/walkingtalkingpod on his website at http://www.ryanschlosser.com/ and at "Walking and Talking: An Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike" wherever you find your podcasts. Bill Tickner is loving his southbound hike, and he is now through both Connecticut and New York, having savored the delis AND a drive-in movie. Fozzie is preparing to drive back to Trail Days. First, though, he recalls the story of the Wapiti Shelter. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.

We've got a guy this week who has spent his life hiking and giving back to both the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails. Dave Fleischman has spent time over the past 25 years maintaining both trails (mainly the PCT) and has a great insight into the logistics behind some of these extraordinary projects. He also arranged his work life to facilitate his passion and shares a story about the importance of watching your health on any trail. I'm sure you'll recognize where he is on our epic main photo and you should watch his video to give you an idea of his '93 PCT thru-hike. https://youtu.be/_iRufREILgM John Zaccone comes onto the show to talk to us about his popular–and rather addictive–app called Walk The Distance. Listen to John as he tells you how to get the app AND help the ATC. Mr President, Bill Tickner, introduces us to yet more serendipity and history of the trail. Follow up on this story by clicking this link to learn more about Ned Anderson and the beautiful Brae Burn Farm. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nestell_Kipp_Anderson Finally, Fozzie meets some ponies. No prizes for guessing where!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

Today we have a comedian, a writer, and a podcaster, but, as you'll learn, she is also an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker. Sally Brooks has a compelling story that appealed to me the moment we started talking. She is funny, wry, and observant, all qualities that she probably needs for her day (or night) job of being a professional comedian AND as a podcaster. You can check out the podcasting and Sally's comedy at http://dumblovepodcast.com http://sallybrookscomedy.com Mr. President is in CT and feeling the heat, while his cabin in California is going through much the same thing. Bill's pragmatic approach to that tense situation says a lot of good things about him. Fozzie has reached the Smokies, always a highlight in the thru-hiking adventure. Special thanks to Ever Green Adventure Foods for their wonderful support for the past three weeks. They have a great product and a wonderful business ethic that is all about protecting and giving back to the various long-distance hiking trails. Thanks, Toast and Jammz. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

This week we have a serious overachiever on the show. Craig "Scatman" Fowler finished the Triple Crown of hiking and looked around to find something else. In particular, he wanted to do something that nobody on earth had ever managed to complete. Once he had become the "One of Seven," his focus shifted to help people celebrate their own uniqueness. If you'd like to learn more about Craig and his One of Seven Project, go to http://www.oneofsevenproject.com/ Mr President is just short of the Massachusetts border, staying in Bennington, VT. He shares an insight into some fellow SOBOs that had never occurred to me. Fozzie is approaching the Smokies. As anybody who has ever done the AT, the Smokies have their own way of greeting you! Thanks to this week's sponsor, Ever Green Adventure Foods. Find out more about them at https://evergreenadventurefoods.com/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. Click here to donate to the show. Any support is gratefully received.

Another terrific show today, with Barney "Scout" Mann sharing his story as a lifelong hiker, a Triple Crowner, and the Ultimate Trail Angel of the Pacific Crest Trail. He started his journey as a young lad in the High Sierra (picture below) and started his Triple Crown on the PCT–with his wife–on their 30th Wedding Anniversary. Barney has written a book about that hike, weaving in the stories from not only he and his wife but also of other characters they hiked with. As you can see below, he's changed a bit over the years!! Order Journeys North https://www.amazon.com/Journeys-North-Pacific-Crest-Trail/dp/1680513214 Visit Scout's Website https://barneyscoutmann.com/ Follow Scout on Instagram and Facebook https://www.instagram.com/journeys.north/ https://www.facebook.com/barneyscoutmann/ Also this week, Bill Tickner, or Mr. President, joins the show to talk about his SOBO hike that originally started back in 2019. You can follow Bill's blog at https://www.wildernesseffect.com/ and find him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mrpresidenthikes/ And in Balancing on Blue, Fozzie hits Amicalola Falls and the start of his own thru-hike. An immediate problem is establishing his nationality! Get Fozzie's book at Amazon by clicking here The sponsor for this week's show is Ever Green Adventure Foods. Check them out at https://evergreenadventurefoods.com/ Thanks guys; it means a lot. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button can be found on the Hiking Radio Network site at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-crisis/donate/ Any support is gratefully received.

Amber Heuisler, or Wheezy, came to my attention recently on Facebook. Her proud boast of walking 200 miles on the AT may not seem to be so much of a cause for celebration but, as she explains, in my view it is an achievement on a par with my thru-hike last year. She is an inspiring young woman who has fought back in life and found that being on the trail is exactly where she wants to be. I hope others are as inspired as I was when I caught up with her in Damascus a few weeks ago. You can keep up with Amber on the trail at her YouTube vlog https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=redeemed+wanderer Bounce has found some peace once more, and he shares with Steve what the hike is doing for him. Our new book, Balancing on Blue, by Keith Foskett, picks up with Keith flying over the Atlantic, then reflecting upon how he got to the AT. If you'd like to check out this and Keith's other books, just go to his Amazon author page at https://www.amazon.com/Keith-Foskett/e/B00A535AQ6?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1596666090&sr=8-1 Thanks to our sponsor for the past few weeks, Triple Crown Coffee. Not only do they make a great Cup of Joe, they give back to the trail with every sale. I hope that you want to support them as you choose what you drink on the trail. Check them out at https://triplecrowncoffee.com/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

This is a long show!! First off, we have Lily Gelfars, a listener who wanted to express her opinion regarding hiking in 2020. She brings some personal experience to her views, having decided to abandon her own 2020 hike on the Camino de Santiago. With a background that includes a SOBO hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2017, she shares her story. She also gave me permission to share her letter/email to me; I'm sure you'll see why I wanted her on the show. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kjIZWdJkpKWDkf02J7nUkYK8y9SUyih3OHB0JBcRfD0/edit If you'd like to hear more from Lily, her blog is at https://alengthyinterlude.wordpress.com/ and she is on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tuliplaglitter/ Bounce is now moving extremely fast, having said that he intended to slow down. Find out why. Despite the length of the show, I didn't want to miss bringing Erin Mackenzie's amazing encounter to you. Believe me, it is a tale that will make you appreciate that we share the trails with wild animals. Finally today, Keith Foskett's "Balancing on Blue" is our new book, about Keith's own AT journey. This week, he introduces his cast of characters. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

Brian Bell has shaped his life to enable him to spend as much time as he can in the outdoors. He looked for a local trail club to see if he could help, then volunteered more and more until he took responsibility as a trail overseer in Shenandoah National Park. Continuing to give back to his local community, he has started a volunteer organization called Keep Virginia Cozy, putting together teams to spend some time in the outdoors and picking up litter that they find. You can find out more about Brian and Keep Virginia Cozy with the links below. His website: http://keepvirginiacozy.org/ On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/keepvirginiacozy On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keepvirginiacozy/ On MeetUp: http://www.meetup.com/keepvirginiacozy Bounce has had a tough few days. After our chat, I found out a little more. This is the picture he posted on his Facebook page. Grandma Gatewood has reached the end of the road and we hear of her final days. I don't know about you, but I will miss her! Thanks go to Triple Crown Coffee for supporting the show. We hope that you try out their great coffee on your next hike. Find them at https://triplecrowncoffee.com/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

I met Molly Rhoads in 2019 when she was hiking with my buddy, Nate Stockton. The two of them were a well-suited odd couple. Nate has retired from the military and is in his 40s, while Molly looks like a 20-year-old. They acted like siblings and enhanced my hike whenever I ran into them, which was often. Molly had a run-in with some small wildlife, though she never lost her sense of humor about that and, as far as I could see, about anything else. She had previously done the Long Trail and, after a shaky start, found that she loved thru-hiking. The AT fired her passion, and she is currently hiking the Colorado Trail, with the PCT in her sights soon. Bounce Da Hiker had been out of contact for a week, and it was only on Wednesday morning that I could get hold of him. He's right on the New Hampshire border, so let the fun and games begin!! Grandma Gatewood has amazed us along the way and, now in her 70s, she continues her wanderlust with a THIRD Appalachian Trail hike. We gratefully welcome to the show Triple Crown Coffee, our sponsor for the next four weeks. Find out more about them at https://triplecrowncoffee.com/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Your support is gratefully received.

We've got a really well-traveled guest on the show today. Chris Pirrello has led a somewhat nomadic lifestyle, with a fourteen-month trip around the world at the start of the 21st Century, followed by years of hiking most of the long trails of America, including the Triple Crown. He even took a job in Antarctica to chalk up his sixth continent. He is a self-confessed foodie and loves excellent coffee, so it seems almost inevitable that he has ended up as the owner of Triple Crown Coffee, a company with a mission to give back to the three trails that make up the Triple Crown. Indeed, each roast is named after one of the trails. If you want to learn more about Chris and his coffee, go to https://triplecrowncoffee.com/ With Kate now home, we're following Bounce Da Hiker. This week, Bounce has been putting in some very long days and had to take a double zero when his body told him he needed a rest. Grandma Gatewood's fame, which had been growing while she was on the trail, gets even greater, as she appears alongside Groucho Marx on TV. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

We've got quite the show today, coming in at over 90 minutes. There's something for everybody, with Keith Foskett, one of the best writers on hiking, sharing his stories and hikes with wit and introspection. We'll be having his Balancing on Blue as our next book on the podcast, so it was great hearing about how he developed as both a hiker and writer. If you want to learn more about Keith or buy some of his books, you can go to his website, https://www.keithfoskett.com/ where you'll find links to each book, his blog, some info on his hikes and a contact page. You can also find him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Keith-Foskett-Fozzie-270894196286427/ On Twitter at https://twitter.com/KeithFoskett and on his Amazon Author page at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Keith-Foskett/e/B00A535AQ6?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_5&qid=1592228832&sr=8-5 Phoenix has been struggling with her ankle recently and, when she texted me on Thursday, I was expecting the worst, though she was in great spirits. Find out what happened. There are a few additional parts to the show this week, including an initiative by Bruce "RTK" Matson, so we hopped on the phone and were joined by Neville Harris of Woods Hole Hostel. Check out the Woods Hole website to learn more about Bruce's initiative. http://woodsholehostel.com/ And, for reasons that will become obvious, we get to meet Sean Campbell, or Bounce Da Hiker. Check out Bounce's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_bYx8ZiGBNPrJfu9eqY57A/videos Finally, Grandma Gatewood does the unthinkable–and goes again!! What a woman!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

This week, we have JC Van Etten, or Catmando. Not only did JC recently win our six-book giveaway, but he was also part of the very tight "tramily" that Togs and Lucky referred to a few weeks ago. I wanted to hear JC's side of the story and, as I'd anticipated, he brought his own slant to the journey that they all shared. JC retired early from work and hopes to fill his retirement with further adventures, though the Appalachian Trail was the fulfillment of a dream many years in the making. As part of this dream, JC raised money for a charity close to his heart, Paws of War. You can learn more about them at their website, https://pawsofwar.org/contact-florida-chapter on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PawsofwarFlorida/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/pawsofwarflorida/ Kate, or "Phoenix," has had a tough few days and is pushing on in the heat of Connecticut after a zero in Kent, CT. She's having to pull on all her reserves of grit and determination as she continues to recover from her ankle injury and the tough terrain. Grandma Gatewood, after summiting Katahdin, had to deal with an inordinate amount of celebrity in the immediate aftermath. As she is going through this, a new plan is forming in her mind..... In this week's show I also referred to the excellent discussion that Anna Huthmaker had on her latest podcast with El Miller and the issue of hiking while black. It is a thoughtful, insightful look at something I'd never truly considered. You can find it on https://traildamespodcast.libsyn.com/episode-57-el-miller-bear-spray I also mentioned my own fundraiser for hikeforH2o, a charity that helps fund the construction and maintenance of wells in Africa, giving villages access to clean water for the first time. I'm currently 30 miles into my 45 miles-in-a-week challenge. You can still sponsor my effort at https://runsignup.com/MightyBlue If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

I think that this is the longest show we've ever had!! Our main guests are Eric and Jessica Matos, or Toast and Jammz. They were introduced to me by Jester, from the Jester Section Hiker podcast and they have a strong hiking resume. We talk about both their hiking and their passion for leave no trace and sustainable use of wilderness places. Toast shares a few stories about their first hike together as a couple and how, when they were on the John Muir Trail, an idea for their business came to them. They have an inspiring message and vision for a time that needs businesses like theirs. If you'd like to learn more about Toast and Jammz (and, of course, Jelly Belly), check out https://evergreenadventurefoods.com/ and follow them on social media at https://www.instagram.com/evergreen_adventurefoods/ and https://www.facebook.com/evergreenadventurefoods Phoenix, our Woman of a Certain Age, is dying to get out of New York. Her ankle still bothers her, but she's soldiering on. Late this evening (Wednesday, Jun 17) I heard from her as she passed 400 miles. Cori Strathmeyer wanted to share news of a charity that is helping three African countries to get clean water. Hikers can help in this effort, either by signing up to walk yourself or sponsoring me as I take on a challenge. I highly commend this cause to you. Go to https://www.hikeforh2o.org/ to sign up. Grandma Gatewood summits Katahdin and the writer, Ben Montgomery, wanted to follow in her footsteps. Listen as he follows in the path of this trail-blazing woman. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

It's an all-woman show today, with Marissa Neel, the Executioner, as our main guest. She has a very funny, brutally honest YouTube channel, and is exactly the same person in our conversation. Marissa shares plenty of witty insights and a stoic determination to get to the end. The story of her last night camping on the AT is a visceral example of what it can be like out there. I could relate on so many levels. Her YouTube channel is not to be missed, so click here. https://www.youtube.com/user/mkneel2/videos Kate is now moving through New Jersey and past the 300-mile mark. The ankle still hurts, but she continues to push north. Below, she is with her current hiking partner, Luna, at the top of Culver Tower. I mention the open position at the Devil's Backbone Brewery as Chief Hiking Officer in my comments in the show. If you'd like to apply, check it out at this link. https://www.dbbrewingcompany.com/cho/ Finally, Grandma Gatewood reaches Baxter State Park. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

Carolyn Walker and Gordon Yhap are now thru-hikers. When you hear their story, you may well wonder "How did they do it?" This conversation should shake up any pre-conceived ideas you may have about what it takes to hike the trail successfully. Gordon and Carolyn are an inspiration. Carolyn kept an online journal while on the trail, so if you'd like to follow along with their hike, click here. http://mytripjournal.com/carolynwalker . She also did a guest post in the Trek once she finished https://thetrek.co/appalachian-trail/not-hiking-harder-than-hiking/ Kate Stillwell is still pushing north in our "Woman of a Certain Age" segment and has made it out of the dreaded state of PA. We also have the second part of Chapter 14 from Grandma Gatewood's Walk If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

We're not so focused on the AT this week, with Luke "Strider" Jordan taking on some of the wilder American trails. His first thru-hike was the 4600 mile North Country Trail, and he became the Earl Schaffer of the Great Plains Trail when he completed the very first thru-hike of that new trail. On the way, he learned what worked and what didn't. He shares some fascinating insights in his conversation with Steve You can connect with Strider and find out more about these trails at the following links. Strider's NCT Hike website: http://stridernct.com/Home_Page.php Strider's Travel Facebook https://www.facebook.com/StriderNCT/ Strider's Book "Thru And Back Again...", available on amazon https://www.amazon.com/Thru-Back-Again-Journey-Country/dp/0692880909 For information about the North Country Trail visit: https://northcountrytrail.org/ For information about the Great Plains Trail visit: https://www.greatplainstrail.org/ Kate Stillwell, or Phoenix, has stopped in town for the first time, mainly to resolve a blister issue. She and Steve chat twice as she continues her steady progress. Grandma Gatewood's Walk is a little truncated this week, with only the first part of Chapter 14. The second part of the chapter will be next week. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

This week's guests met as members of the Class of 2019–my year, even though we never met–and they have been together pretty much ever since. Natalie and Grady both left a little earlier than I did and had a terrific tramily. It was Catmando, one of their tramily and a listener to the show, who pointed me in their direction. Natalie and Grady's story brings out the diversity of opportunity on the trail and each reflects upon how lucky they were not only to meet one another but that they chose 2019 and not 2020 for their trip. Natalie has a beautiful AT video which she did entirely in verse, so check that out here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyh80NSnma8&t=206s Kate Stillwell, in defiance of ATC directives, keeps moving forward and is already over 100 miles into her hike. We caught up on Tuesday. After chatting with Kate, I received an email from ATC who clarified their continued guidance about trail closures. I read this email on the show for the benefit of listeners. Finally, Grandma Gatewood's ordeal is over. No, not her hike, her marriage. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

We've got another terrific show today, with Bobby O'Donnell, a listener, providing our main conversation. Bobby and I discuss a pivotal moment in his life that led him to marathons on seven continents and, in 2018, the Appalachian Trail. His story has moments of sadness, disaster, and triumph, all of which he drew on during his hike. A paramedic, Bobby has been working during this crisis, and his personal experiences have shaped his response to adversity. You can connect with Bobby on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/runningwildbook/ He is on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/runwildbook His website is https://www.runningwildbook.com/ Kate Stillwell, our Woman of a Certain Age, has decided what she wants to do with her intended thru-hike this year. She shares that decision with Steve. Grandma Gatewood's growing fame has reached the pages of Sports Illustrated and she burnishes her superwoman credentials by her stoic approach to the swollen rivers in the north. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

This week, we have a book theme in the show, with a giveaway of six signed books. The principal guest is Sarah Jones Decker, or Harvest, who thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2008, but that wasn't the primary reason that we have Sarah as a guest. She has photographed and written about all the AT shelters in a beautiful book that evokes all the memories we share at those often rundown places. You can connect with Sarah and buy a signed copy of her book at https://www.sarahjonesdecker.com/ Sarah's question as part of our six-book giveaway contest is: What is the largest non-hut shelter on the AT? Bruce Matson also came back to the show to talk about the three books that he has written since his thru-hike. You can find his books on Amazon at this link. https://amzn.to/3ccmmrU Bruce's question is: In which town do participants in the Curly Maple Pizza Challenge purchase the beer and pizza necessary to complete the challenge? I've added my two signed books about my 2014 thru-hike and my question is: What shelter has the highest elevation on the trail? Answer ALL THREE questions correctly, email your answers to me at [email protected], and you'll be entered into a draw for ALL SIX signed books. Best of luck. Finally today, Grandma Gatewood faces a storm in both her personal and hiking lives. She also teaches us a lesson that was being learned the hard way, for some, in the 1950s. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

This week, our guest is a listener who is also a LASHer, a long-ass section hiker. His name is Steve Ortiz or Survivor. His trail name gives away that the mere fact that he is hiking the Appalachian Trail in sections is a blessing in itself. A cancer diagnosis has not slowed down this self-confessed adventurer and, while he regrets that he has to stay off the trail during the current crisis, he is itching to get back out there to complete his goal. If you'd like to keep up with Steve, take a look at his blog; it has some glorious trail pictures. You can find it at https://www.a-bucket-list-of-adventures.com/ My special guest for the middle section is a surprise, though it is a very personal conversation with somebody who has occupied a lot of my thoughts in April. Finally, Grandma Gatewood is in New England, just as a hurricane is slamming its way towards her! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

With the trails now quieter than they've probably ever been at this time of year, it seems appropriate somehow that we should have a trail maintainer AND thru-hiker as our main guest this week. Paul Curtin hiked the AT in 2015 with his son, Kyle, and now gives back to the trail through his work with the Carolina Mountain Club. Paul and Steve talk about Paul's hike and the very important lessons that he learned for his post-hike life. You can read more about the hike on his blog at this link - https://pckc.tumblr.com/ Then, Paul and Steve go on to chat about the work that Paul and the rest of his Carolina Mountain Club members do for the respective trails that they care for. You can learn more about some of this work at the following links: Overnight crew - https://youtu.be/sSjE-HKFmaY Regular crew work - https://youtu.be/0pmb0yXkTLs Carolina Mountain Club website - https://www.carolinamountainclub.org/index.cfm CMC trail maintenance https://www.carolinamountainclub.org/index.cfm/do/pages.view/id/12/page/TRAIL-WORK National Trail Day at Max Patch https://vimeo.com/341199743 Also on the show, sharing his passion for the Great Plains Trail, Clay Bonnymore Evans gives us news of this relatively fledgling trail that promises tons of solitude. Website for Great Plains Trail Alliance - http://www.greatplainstrail.org/ Clay's website Wonderland (menu on top has a link to a long blog about his GPT hike) - https://claybonnymanevans.com/ People can always reach out to Clay through email at - [email protected] The photo above is of Bear Butte from the Centennial Trail, to give you a sense of what it's like. The butte is truly the "Katahdin" of the Centennial Trail, a spectacular place to finish or start. Finally, on today's show, Grandma Gatewood crosses the Hudson River at the lowest point on the trail. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. You might also be interested in buying a Hiking Radio Network shirt (tee or performance) at www.hikingradionetwork.com and clicking on the "Cool Merch" tab.

Today we meet James Brinkman or Snickers. James, like me, was a member of the Class of 2019. Indeed, we met and had dinner in Erwin TN on our respective hikes. James' journey to the trail was somewhat tortuous, with a nasty accident as a young man and an addiction to pain killers messing up much of his early life. James is an inspiring example to all who believe that they can't hike the Appalachian or any other long-distance trail. He faced his issues, moved past them, and got out into nature. As you'll hear, it was just what he needed to do. You can connect with James on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100006002928928 and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/beardly_mcbearderson/ I wouldn't normally add his business Facebook page but I'm making an exception here as he intends to offer free massage sessions to healthcare workers once his business reopens. Good on you, James. Reach him there at https://www.facebook.com/JamesBrinkmannMassage/?__tn__=%2Cd%2CP-R&eid=ARCEnwVyhLueMAtMh9-_s7Q7LhepGjqCi9SUxgHQ0O21s62VQGTb9cLhPj6DX_8r9pZEA1ZTwPv7uTlG While I'm still pondering what to do with the middle section of the show, this week I have Steve Cole, an aspiring AT thru-hiker who went for a warm-up on the Tour Mont Blanc. He shares some of his experiences of this beautiful trail with you all. If you'd like to see more, check out this YouTube link from Abbie Barnes; it gives you a great little taster for what you'll see on the TMB. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzHJGRTjo2Q Grandma Gatewood continues to walk north, gaining publicity and admirers along the way as she heads into New York. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

Our main guest today is Melissa "Click!" Goodwin, a licensed outdoor guide and photographer. She is the founder of Girl Gotta Hike, which connects women with nature, confidence, and camaraderie, both online and on-trail through blog posts, podcast interviews, and guided hiking and backpacking trips in and around New York City. She and her dad, Michael "LongTime" Goodwin, thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail together in 2011. This is her story. Melissa can be found at: Girl Gotta Hike Website www.girlgottahike.com Girl Gotta Hike The Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/girl-gotta-hike-the-podcast/id1485833617 https://open.spotify.com/show/0YHVJuW8bitL56H4B1l9UE @girlgottahike on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/girlgottahike @girlgottahike on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/girlgottahike @girlgottahike on Twitter https://twitter.com/girlgottahike Melissa Goodwin Photography http://melissagoodwinphotography.com Mel and Mike Hike - A 2011 AT Adventure http://melandmikehike.com We also hear from Janet Hensley, universally known and loved as Miss Janet, the ultimate Trail Angel. Miss Janet's calm, pragmatic take on the current pandemic is welcome at this time. Finally, Tim Montgomery's Grandma Gatewood's Walk reaches the second half of the AT, revealing more of her brutal relationship with her husband. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

Plenty to get your teeth into today. Our main guest is Paul "Skunkape" Collins, a man who took on the Appalachian Trail in 2012 and has missed it every day since. He also plans to get back on the trail in 2022, his 10-year trailiversary. He took over 2,000 photos (carrying a DSLR camera) and shared them with friends and, most particularly with his mother. Prior to her death, he celebrated the trail with her in a really touching way. You can see some of Paul's pics on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/hikingwithskunkape/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hiking_with_skunkape/ I join my fellow Hiking Radio Network podcasts–Julie Gayheart and Anna Huthmaker–in a panel discussion on the ramifications of the virus on hiking long-distance trails. Additionally, Dr. Lynne returns to the show, with real-world experience of what the virus is doing to us and some helpful tips. Finally, Grandma Gatewood reveals more of her brutal life and reaches Harpers Ferry. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

We have another pastor on the show today. Cari Pattison is a member of the Class of 2019 (as am I) and she tells the story of her hike as it unfolded last year. She had planned a return to the trail this year but, with the Corona Virus now threatening to overrun most of us, she has had to accept that this year won't be possible for her. Cari's calm presence on the show may well reassure others as they contemplate their own broken plans. If you'd like to follow Cari on Instagram, you can find her at https://www.instagram.com/follow_thejoy/ Additionally, her fascinating and extremely well-written blog on the Trek can be found at https://thetrek.co/author/cari-pattison/ There are a lot of different opinions on the virus and how hikers should respond. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has had its say (along with the associations of other long-distance trails) and I will be giving my view on the show this week. To add to that, we have a hiker who (at March 25) is currently still hiking north. Grandma Gatewood continues her struggle north, with Post-WWII America unfolding in front of her. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.

This is a special show that takes in the Corona Virus and its implications for hikers, as well as a father and son pair of pastors preparing to hike the Appalachian Trail. First, we have Aaron and BG Turner, two men ready for the adventure of their life, yet torn with doubt over the advisability of the hike. This situation is changing so quickly that I thought it was important to not only hear from Aaron and BG, but it was also important to get an expert on the show to help us in our deliberations regarding this outbreak. Heather "Brave" Sloan is a public health educator and gives us up-to-the-minute advice on what we should be considering. She may well be needed on the show in a week or so for further updates. You can check out Heather's Facebook page if you'd like to learn more about staying healthy on the trail. https://www.facebook.com/stayinghealthyontheappalachiantrail/ Kate Stillwell continues to count down to her own AT flip flop, though that decision is similarly conflicting her. And Grandma Gatewood reaches Damascus, with the whole of America in a road-building frenzy. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

This week, now that we've finished reading his book Hiking Through, Paul Stutzman shares with us his hiking and personal journeys. We've learned about his AT trip and I wanted to know what happened after he stepped off the trail. Like his books, Paul is funny, perceptive, and occasionally serious. If you'd like to learn more about Paul or buy some of his books, you can visit his website at http://paulstutzman.com/ We also chat again with Kate Stillwell, our Woman of a Certain Age. Kate is using her 2017 experience on the trail with her daughter to dial in her gear. With less than three weeks to go, Kate's journey is nearly upon us. Finally, in Grandma Gatewood's Walk, Emma's sometimes brutal early life is juxtaposed against the freedom of her hike. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

We first met Chloë de Camara a few weeks ago on the show, informing us about the critical Leave No Trace principles and, in a follow-up conversation, it was clear that Chloë had her own Appalachian Trail story about her trek in 2015. She was very intentional about how she came to the trail, writing a thesis about Appalachian Trail thru-hiking as a spiritual experience and volunteering for the ATC. As you'll hear, meeting the inspirational Jennifer Pharr Davis was a great motivator for her own journey. If you'd like to see more of what Chloë does, click on this link to the ATC's Start Smart program https://youtu.be/J_-evEG3fFg Also today, we have the start of a new series; A Woman of a Certain Age, where Kate Stillwell prepares for and then attempts a thru-hike of the AT from April 1. In this episode, Steve and Kate talk, along with Kate's daughter Alexa, or Tinkerbell. Our new book, Grandma Gatewood's Walk, by Ben Montgomery, teaches us more about the harshness of Emma's life and the early days of her epic journey. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.

Aaron Owens Mayhew, MS, RDN, CD is a registered dietitian, ultralight long-distance backpacker, and backpacking food cookbook author. Aaron has worked in the field of nutrition for nineteen years and has been a backpacker for nearly as long. After having a mid-life crisis in 2016, Aaron began long-distance backpacking on her 40th birthday by hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. She has since launched her business, Backcountry Foodie™, a recipe and meal-planning service for backpackers. The service provides a platform for Aaron to share her knowledge and passion for eating well in the backcountry. She also runs her business and lives in a camper van full-time with her husband and dog. They have been on the road since April 2019 and look forward to where their outdoor adventures will continue to take them. You can learn more about Aaron, and her advice, at her website https://backcountryfoodie.com/ You can also find her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/backcountry_foodie/ Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/backcountryfoodie/ YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSUpLNV2Ct1WQWZHhSF3eCw Also today, we have the first chapter of Ben Montgomery's book about the first badass woman on the trail; Grandma Gatewood. If you'd like to buy the book, follow this link. https://www.amazon.com/Grandma-Gatewoods-Walk-Inspiring-Appalachian-ebook/dp/B00IQY2Q0O/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3F2GUEOT90P8Y&keywords=grandma+gatewoods+walk&qid=1582740316&sprefix=grandma+gate%2Caps%2C202&sr=8-1 Remember to show your support for the show by donating on our podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/

Our guest today, Brant Bazner, lives in the iconic trail town of Damascus. He moved there to be near the trail and has now been hiking on the AT for several years, mainly with his dog, Garvey. Steve and Brant have a wide-ranging conversation about hiking on the trail with a dog, along with a discussion on gear and a few of Brant's stories about his years of hiking on the AT. You can catch up with Brant at Garvey on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYX2u59E9uxUD92oFVKdZeg We also have Chloe Decamera from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy on the show, talking about Leave No Trace principles as the hiking season warms up. Chloe has a wealth of information and clearly articulates what you need to know when you take to a trail near you. Chloe has shared several excellent links as you prepare for the trail. We talk about "Don't be that guy" on the podcast, so check out these links Don't Be That Guy: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuekIhaoBuWaLCkXWvhdoFy8ag5sGOLxt Thru-Hiker Registration (AT Camp) Link: https://atcamp.org/ A.T. L.N.T. Online Awareness Course: http://atc-training.org/lnt/ A.T. Recommended Food Storage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6LnIl-Gt8U&feature=youtu.be In today's show, I also mention an email I had from a listener, Frances Youngblood, drawing my attention to an event happening in Lebanon, MO on April 25th. On that Saturday Frances' friend, Tracey Sheets, will be holding a program to introduce foster children (ages 14-20) to the outdoors. THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN HELP. We're trying to get new or gently used hiking books into the hands of these youngsters and, if you can help, please sign them on the inside, telling who you are and where you're from so that these young people have some connection to you and to the great outdoors. Please mail them to Tracey Sheets, PO Box 751, Ozark, MO 65721. Thanks for your help. Finally, Paul Stutzman's epic journey comes to an end as he stands on top of Katahdin. It's been a blast.

It's a fabulous show this week, not least because we have Mr. Fabulous, or Derick Lugo, as the main guest. Derick hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2012 and has earned himself a reputation as a speaker about the trail, as well as a growing recognition as a writer. His new book, The Unlikely Thru-Hiker, is now available at his website and on Amazon. You can connect with Derick in a variety of ways. Website: https://www.dericklugo.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/derick.lugo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dericklugo/ The short story of his hike with his brother–The Trail Brothers–can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JR21w5qi-B8 Another fabulous guest is April Mae, who Steve spoke with following a post that she made on Facebook. Her story is illuminating and inspiring. The pictures below show April's "Before" and "After" pics. Her story is a testimony to the power of hiking and its beneficial effects upon both the body and the psyche. Don't forget to check out our sponsors, Hiker Medals, at https://www.hikermedals.com/. We've been delighted to have had them on the show these past few weeks. Also, if you'd like to support the various shows on the Hiking Radio Network, you can find the donate button at the podcasts page on the Mighty Blue site: https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Finally, today, Paul Stutzman stands on the edge of glory, tackling the 100-Mile Wilderness as he prepares for Katahdin.