She Explores

What happens when injury sidelines you from your favorite outdoor activities. First off, you're not alone. This episode features four nature-loving women whose injuries necessitated surgery and lots of time for rest. We talk about the mental and physical challenges, how they coped, and how it felt when they made it outside again once more. Women featured in this episode: Hailey Hirst, Erica Aaron, Amanda Gates, and Jaime Purinton Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode you'll hear: About four women's injuries and how their recoveries put them on the sidelines of their outdoor lives How the mental challenge of healing is often harder than the physical challenge How the women coped with the isolation, immobility, and separation from the outdoor activities they love What it felt like when they were able to step back outside Sponsored by NoteCast by EX-IQ & Ritual Learn more at She-Explores.com Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Sponsor Websites and Codes Notecast: Head to Notecast.app and use code EXPLORES at checkout for 60 days free! Ritual: Head to Ritual.com/explore to get started! Resources Blog post: 'How to Cope When You're Recovering Indoors' Hailey Hirst: Instagram & Website Erica Aaron: Instagram Amanda Gates: Instagram Jaime Purinton: Instagram & Hike It Off Clothing Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Josh Woodward and Kai Engel using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

How to make time for nature, even in the winter season. It can be be all too easy to get into a groove that doesn't include the outdoor activities you love -- but that's OK, too. This episode shares some practical tips for experiencing nature year round. We talk to She Explores and Women on the Road team members Noël Russell, Laura Hughes, and Hailey Hirst about how they incorporate nature into their everyday lives, and why it isn't always easy. Women featured in this episode: Noël Russell, Laura Hughes, and Hailey Hirst Hosted by Gale Straub Tips for experiencing nature year round, even in winter: Eat your meals outside Walking your dog Driving with your window open Try a new activity: snowshoeing, cross country skiing, skating, ice climbing, ice fishing - for a few ideas! Go out with a friend that loves cold weather Treat yourself to something you love after you step outside Read an adventurous book and experience some 'armchair' outdoor time Sent up a tent inside! Bring some plants into your home Take note of the 'in-between' moments: shoveling snow, the light through the trees, a bird in the distance In this episode you'll hear: Nature sounds from New Hampshire and Utah! How Noël taps into nature while living in a city Why walking her dogs helps Noël experience nature on weekdays Why it can be harder to spend time outside in the winter Suggested new activities to try this season Why Women on the Road podcast host Laura Hughes has conflicting feelings about winter How hiking in Moab has helped Laura learn about her new home Why Hailey Hirst has spent more time inside than usual this winter How an injury can change your perspective Advice Noël, Laura, and Hailey have for tapping into nature year round Sponsored by NoteCast by EX-IQ Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Learn more at She-Explores.com Sponsor Website Head to notecast.app and use the code 'EXPLORES' to get your first 60 days free! Resources Noel Russell: Instagram Laura Hughes: Instagram Hailey Hirst: Instagram What Hailey's reading: Girl in the Woods & Paddling North Women on the Road: Episodes & Instagram She Explores Book She Explores Book Limited Edition Poster Promotion Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Lee Rosevere and Kai Engel using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

Stories connect us, help us learn, and help us better understand each other. Melanin Base Camp founder Danielle Williams taps into the power of storytelling to showcase the many different ways people of color and LGBTQ+ folks experience the outdoors. In this episode, we talk to Danielle and featured bloggers Nadia Mercado and Dr. Favia Dubyk. In interviewing Danielle, there’s a lot we could dig in to. She’s a skydiver and started “Team Blackstar Skydivers,” a community for skydivers of color. She’s third generation military. She’s coping with complications from Rheumatic Fever that have left her unable to run. She’s also one of the founding members of Diversify Outdoors, a coalition of social media influencers who share the goal of promoting diversity in outdoor spaces. Their website also hosts Teresa Baker’s Outdoor CEO Diversity pledge. For this episode, I want to highlight Danielle’s work with Melanin Base Camp and the power of storytelling, and in particular, the power of telling your own story and listening to the personal stories of others. Women featured in this episode: Danielle Williams, Nadia Mercado, and Dr. Favia Dubyk Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode you'll hear: About Danielle's early experiences running Nadia Mercado's article "I said I Wasn't Outdoorsy, but I Lied" and how we create stories about what is outdoorsy and what isn't The value of stories to help us understand people with different backgrounds and cultures How Danielle's chronic illness has changed her perspective Why Danielle started Melanin Base Camp to share the stories of people of color and the myriad of ways they experience the outdoors Why bloggers Nadia Mercado and Dr. Favia Dubyk contribute to Melanin Base Camp The power of storytelling to connect, to educate, and to create a historical record About Nadia's article, "Shut Up and Climb" and why 'good vibes only' cultures in outdoor adventure sports can be destructive What Melanin Base Camp will be focusing on in 2019 Sponsored by ThirdLove Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Learn more at She-Explores.com Sponsor Website Head to ThirdLove.com/explore to learn more and get 15% off your first purchase! Resources Melanin Base Camp: Website, Instagram, Facebook Team Blackstar: Community for skydivers of color founded by Danielle Diversify Outdoors Nadia Mercado: Instagram Favia Dubyk: Instagram "I Said I Wasn't Outdoorsy, But I Lied" Shut Up and Climb Favia's Three Part Series on Cancer and Climbing: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Evan Schaeffer, Nihilore, Lee Rosevere, Miss, and Kai Engel using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

What's the Outdoor CEO Diversity Pledge? Teresa Baker and Danielle Williams share why it's important for diverse people to take the lead doing the work to make the outdoors a more inclusive, equitable place for all. They also comment on the recent announcement of a CEO Outdoor Equity Pledge by Camber Outdoors. Women featured in this minisode: Teresa Baker and Danielle Williams Resources: Outdoor CEO Diversity Pledge "Camber CEO Outdoor Equity Pledge sparks major backlash" SNEWS article by James Edward Mills Op-Ed: After the Camber Equity Pledge Blow Up Camber Outdoors Public Apology Camber Outdoors Public Statement Melanin Base Camp Instagram Melanin Base Camp Website She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Mise and Nihilore using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

Meet Jeanine Pesce, creative connector and founder of RANGE, a creative agency and magazine inspired by the culture of the outdoor movement. We talk about how she's carved out a place for herself in the outdoor industry. We also chat about the tenth issue of RANGE Mag, centered around the theme 'Work in Progress.' RANGE contributors Rocío, Hatie, and Emily share their perspectives on the theme and the unique stories about culture, product technology, and outdoor travel that they brought to the issue. Women featured in this episode: Jeanine Pesce, Rocío Villalobos, Hatie Parmeter, and Emily Hopcian Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode you'll hear: Stories around the theme of 'work in progress' How Jeanine Pesce started RANGE, a creative agency and magazine inspired by the culture of the outdoor movement Why Jeanine carved out a place for herself in the outdoor industry Why Jeanine believes in sharing her media platform with others How Rocío Villalobos sees herself as a work in progress and why it's important for her story to reach more people, especially young women of color Hatie Parmeter sharing a riveting story about new technology in outdoor gear Why RANGE managing editor Emily Hopcian is passionate about writing international features How Jeanine is working on finding more time for herself as a business owner and outdoor-lover What's next for RANGE in 2019 Sponsored by Ritual Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Learn more at She-Explores.com Sponsor Website Ritual.com/explore Resources SNEWS article on Outdoor CEO Pledges by James Edward Mills Outdoor CEO Diversity Pledge RANGE Website & Instagram RANGE Magazine Issue 10 Rocío Villalobos: Instagram Hatie Parmeter: Instagram & Whoa Mag Emily Hopcian: Instagram & Portfolio José G Gonzáles: Website Melanin Basecamp Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Jason Shaw, Mise, and Kai Engel using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

Caroline Gleich is a ski mountaineer who knows the meaning of scary but rewarding: whether she's climbing 8,000 meter mountains in the Himalayas or anticipating her future as an adventure-seeking wife and mom. Years of hard work have brought her here and while she's a self described late bloomer, Caroline's learned to trust the timing in her life. Looking back on 2018, Caroline shared on her Instagram that she summited 72 peaks and climbed 489,704 human powered vertical feet of uphill. Included in these peaks and vertical feet was the 6th highest mountain in the world, Cho Oyu. We talked with Caroline about that climb and the family she sees in her future. Even though she’s ski mountaineered some of the tallest mountains in the world, her thoughts on fear, self-trust, and creating the life she wants for herself hit close to home. Plus, we catch up with Karen Wang two years after we interviewed her for Episode 9, After the Pacific Crest Trail. Women featured in this episode: Caroline Gleich and Karen Wang Hosted by Gale Straub The She Explores Book is now available for presale! Learn more here In this episode you'll hear: What surprised Caroline about her climb of Cho Oyu, the sixth highest mountain in the world Why she continues to ski mountaineer despite the inherent risks How altitude sickness almost cost her the summit Why she proposed to her fiancé and not the other way around How what she learned on Cho Oyu will help her on her spring climb of Everest How Caroline copes with pre-trip anxiety and post-trip depression Why getting married and planning to have kids feels scarier than a big mountaineering trip Our up with Karen Wang two years after her "After the Pacific Crest Trail" interview Sponsored by ThirdLove Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Learn more at She-Explores.com Sponsor Websites and Codes Thirdlove.com/explore: For 15% off your first purchase Resources Caroline Gleich: Instagram & Website Karen Wang: Photography/Website & Blog Episode 9 - After the Pacific Crest Trail: Karen Wang Follow Through: A Film about Caroline by REI & Duct Tape Then Beer Headspace App RANGER Station Schedule at Outdoor Retailer trade show Natives Outdoors Flash Foxy She Explores Book, available for Pre-order! Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Steve Combs, Mise, Josh Woodward, Evan Schaffer, and Meydan using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

Heather Hansman went on a solo pack rafting adventure for the sake of conservation. Paddling the 730 mile Green River, she learned about the future of water in the west and documented her journey in her upcoming book, Downriver: Into the Future of Water in the West. We talk about her two month pack rafting trip, what it means to write an adventure memoir that's grounded in water conservation, and why addressing environmental issues doesn't have to be intimidating or impersonal. Planning ahead can be like reading a river, a graceful mix of intuition and problem solving. Women featured in this episode: Heather Hansman Hosted by Gale Straub The She Explores Book is now available for presale! Learn more here In this episode you'll hear: How Heather got started as a rafting guide Why water conservation doesn't have to be an abstract, hard to understand concept (But why it's probably more complicated than you think ) The reason Heather wanted to pack raft the Green River All the logistics involved in planning a 730 mile rafting trip Heather's thoughts on adventure memoirs Why solo isn't necessarily better when you're on an adventure Some of the issues Heather dug into that stakeholders found with water rights in the Colorado River basin Why river recreation is inherently tied to conservation What we can do close to home Sponsored by Ritual Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Learn more at She-Explores.com Resources Heather Hansman's Website Downriver: Into the Future of Water in the West - Available for Pre-order! 12 Essential Books on Water in the West, as recommended by Heather She Explores Book, available for Pre-order! If you liked this episode, you'll probably like: Episode 56: An (Adventure) Book Club for the 21st Century Episode 92: Quitting Can Be A Kindness - Nicole Antoinette Episode 72: Fifty Years as an Outdoor Entrepreneur - Sheri Tingey Episode 49: Great Lakes, Greater Goals - Traci Lynn Martin Sponsor Websites and Codes Ritual.com/explore Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Jason Shaw, Nihilore, and Meydan using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

We put out a call for voice submissions, asking questions like: how will you bring what you’ve learned in the outdoors this year into 2019? Are you hoping to take up a new skill? Is there anyone you want to introduce to your outdoor life? Do you have any big trips planned? Or are you embracing resources closer to home? The answers were a resounding yes, all around. Women featured in this episode: Marissa Priestap, Alisha M’Lot Ruby and Jenni Goldman, Rhiannon Ball, Annabel Plush, Diandra Oliver, Jennifer, Meghan Young, Hailey Hirst, Kimberly Bradley, Katarina Mulec, Rachel Friedman, Kate Rafey, Rocio, Elisa Janson, Desiree Penner, Helen Wallis, Francesca Turauskis, Teresa Benitez, Greta Matos, and Christina Hickman Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode you'll hear: The question to ask yourself if you're looking to spend more time outside in 2019 Why bringing others (and pets!) out with you can be fulfilling How fat people are claiming space for themselves in the outdoor industry (and on Mount Kilimanjaro) in 2019 How nature is healing, emotionally and physically Why when you're recovering from an injury (and otherwise), adventure is relative How listeners are hoping to incorporate conservation advocacy into their recreation in 2019 The specific goals and bucket we have on our minds Why big goals are great but small goals are valuable, too How it's difficult to balance indoor and outdoor time when you work full time Gale's hopes for 2019 (hint, they have to do with balance, too!) Sponsored by Benchmark Maps and Audible Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Learn more at She-Explores.com Resources Marissa Priestap: Instagram & Blog Rhiannon Ball: 'outdoorsy' Instagram & personal Instagram Annabell Plush: Instagram Diandra Oliver: Instagram, Blog, & Curvy Kili Crew Fat Girls Hiking: Instagram & Website Layla Cameron: Fat Hiking Club Documentary Katarina Mulec: Instagram & Balkan River Defense Rachel Friedman: The Ski Retreat Elisa Janson: Blog & Women's Trail Summit Francesca Turauskis: Seize Your Adventure Podcast Teresa Benitez: Instagram Greta Matos: Company she's building in Chile & Instagram Christina Hickman: Instagram & Blog Desiree Penner: Instagram & Art Sponsor Websites and Codes Benchmark Maps: Take 20% with code SHEEXPLORES at checkout Audible.com/explore: Get first month free and one free audiobook! Or text EXPLORE to 500500 to get started Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Jason Shaw, Lee Rosevere, and Kai Engel using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

Nicole Antoinette quit her thru hike of the Pacific Crest Trail after about 1,600 miles and she's ok with calling it a failure. In fact, Nicole questions why we have to choose either success or failure. Can't we be gentler with ourselves? Can't we set out to both succeed and fail? Nicole Antoinette has a gift for applying lessons she's learned to new chapters of life. We talk about how what she's learned in sobriety applies to distance running applies to thru hiking applies to us all. Women featured in this episode: Nicole Antoinette. Cameos by Carrot Quinn, Karen Wang, and Rahawa Haile Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: How long distance running can be a gateway to thru hiking Physical activity as a way to cope with new sobriety Why you don't have to be "good" at something to do it Why growth is a value for Nicole When making life changes is a lonely thing Why Nicole wanted to hike the PCT on her own but also wanted a trail family What the culture is like on the PCT The awareness Nicole has for her body while hiking "'Success', whatever that means" Giving yourself room to fail (on a trail and in life) Post-trail depression and why "this too shall pass" The mindset of embracing "both/and" vs. "either/or" aka we don't have to be one thing Sponsored by Benchmark Maps and Outdoor Voices Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Learn more at She-Explores.com Resources Nicole Antoinette's Website & Instagram Real Talk Radio Nicole's patreon 2019 She Explores Listener Survey Carrot Quinn's Thru Hiking Will Break Your Heart Carrot's episode on She Explores & Real Talk Radio Rahawa's episode on She Explores & Real Talk Radio Karen's episode on She Explores & Real Talk Radio Brainstorm National Park Puzzle Sponsor Websites and Codes Benchmark Maps: Take 20% with code SHEEXPLORES at checkout Outdoor Voices: Take 20% off your order of $100 or more with code EXPLORES at checkout at outdoorvoices.com/explores Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Josh Woodward and Kai Engel using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

Becoming a new mom has changed the way Kristina Frost experiences the outdoors. And she's realizing, it's not better or worse - it's just different. The confluence of a body in healing, a child who needs constant care, and postpartum depression means her life looks little like it did a few years ago. We talk to Kristina before and after she takes her two-month-old daughter Emma camping for the very first time. Women featured in this episode: Kristina Frost Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: How Kristina compares her first backpacking experiences with being a new mom What postpartum depression feels like to Kristina The difference between PMDD and postpartum depression Why Kristina feels like she's lost her outdoor community (for now) Before and after Kristina's first camping trip with her 2 month old daughter and husband How her body's changed after pregnancy and birth Why Kristina feels like she has an old self and a new self and how the two might be integrated Advice for new moms who want to take their infants camping Why you don't have to stick to one kind of camping Sponsored by Benchmark Maps and Sustain Natural Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Resources Follow Kristina on Instagram: @frostkristina Hike it Baby Adventure Mamas Sponsor Websites and Codes Benchmark Maps: Take 20% with code SHEEXPLORES at checkout Sustain Natural: Take 20% off first one-time order with code EXPLORES at checkout Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Jason Shaw and Kai Engel using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

What we have (and want) to give to ourselves and to others is often clarified through time outside. At Lodged Out in the Adirondacks of New York, four women share how they spent the weekend through a giving lens. And as a bonus, we start off the episode by talking with Cassie Abel about "Women-Led Wednesday" - a new initiative to support female-led businesses this holiday season and beyond. Women featured in this episode: Bobbilee Hartman, Nic Annette Miller, Abby Pond, and Adriana Aldana Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: About the origin story of Lodged Out How Bobbilee is energized by connecting with people and connecting people with others How even though your job isn't always the right fit, it doesn't mean you have the wrong profession Why Bobbilee decided to make Lodged Out retreats tech free and centered around the outdoors How it can be hard to find balance between motherhood, work, entrepreneurship, and giving yourself time Why choosing to do something for yourself can be a gift Why sharing and teaching art is giving, both towards yourself and others How we can learn from a photograph Why bias is perpetuated by not listening to other people's stories About Women-Led Wednesday and why it's important to vote with our dollars Sponsored by Benchmark Maps, Robinhood and Bombas Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Resources Lodged Out Women Led Wednesday: Website, Instagram, and Twitter Queen of Cups Lingerie Nic Annette Miller: Instagram She-Explores.com landing page Sponsor Websites and Codes Benchmark Maps: Take 20% with code SHEEXPLORES at checkout Robinhood: Head to Explores.robinhood.com for a free stock with signup Bombas: Use code 'explores' at checkout for 20% off your first order Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Jason Shaw and Kai Engel using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

Lost in the mountains is a vulnerable place to be. Lydia Sturgis shares her experience losing the trail for a night in the Beartooth Mountains of Montana, and heli nurse Krista Elkins gives advice for both how to prevent getting lost and what to do if it happens. Women featured in this episode: Lydia Sturgis and Krista Elkins Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: Lydia's hike and climb up Granite Peak, the highest mountain in Montana Why it's important to trust your climbing partner What Lydia and her climbing partner Artie did when they got lost on the way down Advice from heli nurse and paramedic Krista Elkins for ways to prevent getting lost Gear to bring on an overnight What to do if you do get lost for one night and more than one night Recommended courses for outdoor enthusiasts Why it's worth getting out there, even with the risks What Lydia learned while she was out there Sponsored by Benchmark Maps, Outdoor Voices and Sustain Natural Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Resources Episode landing page Wilderness First Responder Course REI Adventures Sponsor Websites and Codes Benchmark Maps: Take 20% with code SHEEXPLORES at checkout Outdoor Voices: Take 20% off order of $100 or more with code EXPLORES at checkout Sustain Natural: Take 20% off first one-time order with code EXPLORES at checkout

Hiranya de Alwis Jayasinghe set out to be the first BAME woman in the United Kingdom to thru hike the Welsh Coastal Trail. She didn't achieve her goal, but after 570 miles on foot, she could hear herself loud and clear. Women featured in this episode: Hiranya de Alwis Jayasinghe Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: What the ~870 mile Welsh Coastal Path is Why Wales is so important to Hiranya Why she chose to hike solo "On your own? You're very brave." What Hiranya heard most often about being on her own and why she thinks that is Why what is deemed a "good adventure" feels like a hierarchy How trails in the US are different than the Welsh Coastal Path How hiking solo gave Hiranya a new appreciation for her body Balancing comfort and challenge on a long hike How Brexit brought out a resurgence of racism in the UK and how Hiranya experienced this as a South Asian woman on the path Whether or not people are talking about DEI and the outdoors in the UK Gender norms Hiranya observed on the path How she felt when she got off the trail after 48 days Sponsored by Ritual and Sustain Natural Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Resources Hiranya's blog: Life Moves in Cycles Sponsor Websites and Codes Ritual.com/explore Sustain Natural: Use code EXPLORES for 20% off your first one-time order! Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Josh Woodward, Jason Shaw, Lee Rosevere, and Kai Engel using a Creative Commons Attribution license. Music is also by Sun Shapes

Pregnant with her daughter Ruby, Melody Forsyth thought hiking would be her "last hurrah" when she found out Ruby has Down Syndrome (DS). Turns out, it was just the beginning. We talk about what having a child with special needs has added to Melody's hiking and personal life, and how she uses social media to break stereotypes about her little girl and DS. Women featured in this episode: Melody Forsyth Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: How Melody balances the roles of mother, nurse, hiker, and wife The ways in which a backpacking experience in her teens has carried with her into her 40's Getting started hiking again a little later in life Why fear of not getting to explore after having a child with Down Syndrome got Melody's family outside How seeing a kid with special needs at a National Park assuaged Melody's fears How Ruby connects with the outdoors Melody's family's quest to visit all the National Parks in the US The ways Melody uses her Instagram @downwithadventure to correct misconceptions about Down Syndrome and hiking with a child with special needs What Ruby has taught Melody (and can teach us!) Sponsored by Away and Bombas Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Camp with us In Taos at the Women on the Road Gathering Resources Melody's instagram: @downwithadventure Learn about their family on the Goal Zero Blog Sponsor Websites and Codes Bombas: Get 20% off your first purchase by using code 'explores' at checkout! Away: Get $20 off your first purchase of a suitcase by using code 'explores' at checkout! Get 20% off an Escape Campervan rental by using code 'WOMEN20' at checkout Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Jason Shaw using a Creative Commons Attribution license. Music is also by Bouquet and Liam McNally

Elyse Rylander is the founder and executive director of OUT There Adventures, a nonprofit dedicated to empower queer young people through their connection with the natural world. Elyse believes nature is a disruptive force for queer youth and hopes to foster their identities and love of the outdoors. Women featured in this episode: Elyse Rylander Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear What Elyse is working on right now How partnering with other established nonprofits like Outward Bound is helping spread the mission of OUT There Adventures Why it can be uniquely hard for a small nonprofit to do outreach for queer kids for outdoor programs Why role models are so important for queer youth in the outdoors How working at an outdoor store and getting into guiding positively impacted Elyse as a teenager Why Elyse believes nature is a disruptive force How nature mirrors queer identities How OUT There fosters inclusiveness on trips What Elyse hopes the youth take with them when they leave Hurdles to growth for OUT There Elyse's vision for the future About the second annual LGBTQ Outdoor Summit What Elyse is looking forward to Sponsored by BetterHelp and Bombas Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Camp with us In Taos at the Women on the Road Gathering Resources OUT There Adventures: Website & Instagram LGBTQ Outdoor Summit Outside Online Article on Elyse Rylander Sponsor Websites and Codes Betterhelp: Get the first week free by heading here and using offer code 'explores'! Bombas: Get 20% off your first purchase by using code 'explores' at checkout! Get 20% off an Escape Campervan rental by using code 'WOMEN20' at checkout Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Lee Rosevere, Jason Shaw, Josh Woodward using a Creative Commons Attribution license. Music is also by Kay Orange

Tsedo Sherpa-Ednalino is the COO of Sherpa Adventure Gear. Leading with humility is part of her Sherpa heritage and it's a tenet of her life as an executive and a mother. Women featured in this episode: Tsedo Sherpa-Ednalino Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear Tsedo talk about why working moms shouldn't be the only parents to get the question 'how do you do it all?' About why Tsedo loves international travel and wants to share that with her 3 year old daughter Origin story of Sherpa Adventure Gear Sherpa cultural attributes (welcoming, warm, friendly, humble, adaptable ) and how Tsedo identifies with them How Sherpa Adventure Gear elevates Sherpa culture by employing women and funding education for children in Nepal Advice for women looking to work in the outdoor industry and rise through the ranks Who Tsedo's role models are The unique challenges and benefits to working for a family business How motherhood has improved Tsedo's time management Sponsored by BetterHelp and Ritual Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Camp with us In Taos at the Women on the Road Gathering Learn more at She-Explores.com/podcast Resources: Sherpa Adventure Gear Women on the Road Gathering Sponsor Websites & Codes Betterhelp: Get the first week FREE by heading here Ritual: Try Ritual guaranteed, if you don't like it after the first month get your money back Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Lee Rosevere, Kai Engel, Josh Woodward using a Creative Commons Attribution license. Music is also by Great Lands

Sydney Williams is more than a weight loss story, or an outdoors person with Type II diabetes, or a trauma survivor. But hiking the Trans-Catalina trail the second time helped her put it all together. Women featured in this episode: Sydney Williams Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear How Sydney hiked the Trans-Catalina Trail in Southern California two times: the first time it was the hardest thing physically, the second it was the hardest emotionally Why a diagnosis of Type II diabetes was the best thing that ever happened to Sydney The four things Sydney learned to manage when monitoring her blood sugar Why stress can be so hard to regulate How Sydney started hiking her feelings rather than eating and drinking her feelings What was revealed to her about her past trauma on the trail How hiking has helped her own her story Why Sydney is going on a speaking tour in southern California to share her experience and where you can hear her talk The lost potential of women due to sexual violence How the outdoors helped Sydney coax healing from the trauma she carried Sponsored by BetterHelp, uBiome, Outdoor Voices, and Robinhood Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Camp with us In Taos at the Women on the Road Gathering Learn more at She-Explores.com/podcast Resources: Sydney Williams: Hiking My Feelings Website & Instagram Sydney Williams: Personal Instagram RAIIN.org: 1-800-656-HOPE Sponsor Websites & Codes BetterHelp: Get the first week free by heading here! uBiome Outdoor Voices: Get 20% off your first order of $100 or more by heading to Outdoorvoices.com/sheexplores and using the code 'SHEEXPLORES' at checkout Robinhood: Get a FREE stock like Apple, Ford, or Sprint to help build your portfolio! Sign up at explores.robinhood.com Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Lee Rosevere, Kai Engel, Josh Woodward using a Creative Commons Attribution license. Music is also by Great Lands

Mary Ann Thomas loves bike touring because it's accessible, it helps her care for her body, it connects her with people she might not otherwise meet, and it has helped her express the truest parts of herself. She's bicycled across the United States and Canada, as well as India, and is currently on a speaking tour to share her love of bike touring and her work as a queer brown travel writer with the WTF (Women Trans Femme) community. Women featured in this episode: Mary Ann Thomas Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear How bike touring helps Mary Ann feel in sync with her body Why bike touring is an accessible form of adventure About Mary Ann's first transcontinental bike tour What Mary Ann learned about herself on that first long solo bike tour How the middle of the US was more welcoming than she expected The ways in which travel nursing can help facilitate an adventurous lifestyle Why Mary Ann wanted to bike across India How India surprised Mary Ann How Mary Ann uses social media when she's bike touring to set up a network of safe spaces on the road Why women and women of color should bike tour, especially in countries with familial ties How Mary Ann believes you're only as safe as you believe you are About the WTF Bikexplorers Summit About Mary Ann's F*** Impossible Road Trip Sponsored by BetterHelp, uBiome, and One Eleven Watches Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Camp with us In Taos at the Women on the Road Gathering Learn more at She-Explores.com/podcast Resources: Mary Ann Thomas: Website & Instagram WTF Bikexplorers Summit Warm Showers Mary Ann's Chapbook: Asking For Elephants Sponsor Websites & Codes BetterHelp: Get the first week free by heading here! UBiome One Eleven Watches: First 20 get an Ursa Major gift with your purchase. Head here! Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Lee Rosevere, Kai Engel, Jason Shaw using a Creative Commons Attribution license. Music is also by Great Basin

Kristin Link is a science illustrator and an artist living off the grid in McCarthy, Alaska. She shares about her life there, why she loves helping people see the natural world up close through science illustration, and her tips for applying to artist-in-residencies at National Parks. Women featured in this episode: Kristin Link, science illustrator, with a special intro segment with Chevon Powell, founder of Refuge Outdoor Festival. Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear Chevon Powell share her vision for the Refuge Outdoor Festival coming to Tolt-MacDonald Park September 28 - 30, 2018 About Kristin's life off the grid near McCarthy, Alaska What brought Kristin to Alaska and how it lead her to a career in science illustration What science illustration is and the different ways you can pursue it as a career Why Kristin focuses on the environmental aspects of science illustration About artist-in-residencies programs through the National Park Service What the application process is like for artist-in-residency programs The goal of Kristin's work, whether it's science illustration or fine art How it's difficult to live sustainably, even when you're living off the grid How Kristin's relationship with the land and its history has evolved in her time living in Alaska Why science illustration will never go away as a profession and why she recommends it for others interested in art and the environment Sponsored by RxBar, Otterbox, uBiome, and Victorious Resources: Kristin Link: Portfolio Site and Instagram Refuge Outdoor Festival Artist-Residencies info from Kristin: Call For Entry is a website that lists calls for visual artists. There are several residencies in national parks that post there, including Gates of the Arctic The Wrangell Mountains Center, the nonprofit where I used to work, also has a residency application there and hosts a two-week residency in McCarthy and the Wrangell-St. Elias. Their application is also on CaFE. Voices of the Wilderness is a collection of artist residencies on public lands and wilderness areas in Alaska. It is one application where people can apply to many opportunities. In 2017 I did a residency in the Nellie Juan – College Fiord Wilderness Study Area with the Forest Service in Prince William Sound. There is no fee to apply which I appreciate. The Chilkoot Trail Artist Residency has it’s own application hosted on the Yukon Arts Center’s website. Also no fee. Some artist residencies are just listed on NPS websites or organizations that work with them, so it can be worth searching around. A surprising number of places have artist residencies, and it seems like there are more becoming available. Here is the Joshua Tree one, which I did in 2016. Sponsor Websites & Codes UBiome Victorious RxBar: Use code "SHEEXPLORES" for 25% off your first order! Otterbox Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is also by Lee Rosevere, Kai Engel, Jason Shaw, Doctor Turtle, and Steve Combs using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

Georgina Miranda lives mindfully in business and while pursuing the Explorer Grand Slam: standing on the highest summits in each continent as well as the North and South Pole. The founder of She Ventures and Altitude 7 shares how years spent summiting the highest mountains in the world drove home her devotion to creating businesses and taking adventures that have a positive social impact on the world. While Georgina's accomplishments are impressive, we're most struck by her ability to learn and adapt with each one. Women featured in this episode: Georgina Miranda, founder of She Ventures Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear What factors in Georgina’s upbringing lead her to pursue an impact-driven career focused around women’s rights How what you’re passionate about can find you vs. the other way around How Georgina started “choosing adventure” in her life in the form of indoor rock climbing and hiking Why she believes 30 minutes of activity and/or mindfulness each day has a positive impact on your life, and how She Ventures launched the Move 30 Collective to help people achieve that goal How goals like summiting Mount Everest are more achievable when you break them down into smaller steps How Georgina came up with the idea to hike the 7 summits to raise money for gender-based violence awareness and treatment The ways in which listening to her gut have helped her in mountaineering and running her companies How she's become more comfortable with failure (on and off the mountain) Why it's key to make your decisions at "base camp" The mission behind She Ventures and the special in-person events they put on Sponsored by Otterbox, uBiome, and Victorious. Resources: Georgina Miranda: Website and Instagram She Ventures: Website and Instagram Move30Collective: Website and Instagram City of Joy International Medical Corps V Day About Miranda's quest for the Explorer Grand Slam Learn more on She-Explores.com Join us in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group! Sponsor Websites & Codes Otterbox uBiome.com/explores Victorious.com/explores Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by The Mariners. Music is also by Lee Rosevere, Kai Engel, and Josh Woodward using a Creative Commons Attribution license.

Anastasia and Rose hike their violin and keyboard, respectfully, into the mountains of Washington to play music to greet the rising sun. In doing so, they hope to inspire others to share their own gifts with the world. A little over a year ago, Anastasia Allison and Rose Freeman met in person and found out they had the same dream: to play music in the backcountry (in a low impact and respectful fashion). They decided to load up a violin and keyboard and give it a try. You can watch videos of them playing in the mountains in all seasons - surrounded by snow and in the height of summer. In this episode, Anastasia and Rose record a recent hike up Sahale arm in the North Cascades and share what makes it special for them and others. Women Featured in this Episode: Anastasia Allison and Rose Freeman Addy Polet is featured in the Deuter midroll. Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode you'll hear How Anastasia and Rose got started as "The Musical Mountaineers" - carrying their instruments to play music as the sun rises and sets in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest The sounds of the two women hiking up to Sahale Arm in the Cascades to play a sunrise "concert" How the women practice Leave No Trace when they perform and why they don't tell anyone that they're going to be out there The challenges and rewards of hiking instruments up 3,500 feet to play The mission behind "The Musical Mountaineers" and how it's evolved The ways playing music in the backcountry has impacted them personally How they improvise to create new music together What makes Anastasia and Rose a good team How letting go of perfection in music relates to every day life and other lessons we can draw from their performances And about the Women on the Road Gathering in Taos, NM! Sponsored by Victorious and Deuter Resources Follow The Musical Mountaineers: Instagram, Facebook, Youtube Follow Anastasia Allison: Instagram, Podcast: The Inspired Adventurepreneur, Website Follow Rose Freeman: Instagram See The Musical Mountaineers Perform at Benaroya Hall Women on the Road Gathering Learn more on She-Explores.com Join the conversation in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Sponsors & Codes Victorious: Get the first month's membership free using the URL Victorious.com/explores Deuter Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is performed by The Musical Mountaineers: Sunrise Improvisation - original music by The Musical Mountaineers How Great Thou Art (1885) Great is Thy Faithfulness (1923) Music is by Jason Shaw via Free Music Archive (CC by A license)

Taryn's grandma Carol went on a bike tour in 1944 with her girlfriend Billie. We hear from Carol about the "ordinary adventure" she took at home during World War II. This episode is an opportunity to learn about what Carol's experience was like as a woman living near Vancouver and making airplanes during the war, as well as carving out a couple of weeks for a vacation that might seem surprising to anyone who didn't live through that time. It's a reminder to ask our grandmothers questions because we never know what their stories might hold. Taryn sent us this note with some black and white photos of her grandmother on the one bike tour of her life in 1944: My grandmother is 93 now. During World War II she was a teenager. Instead of going to university she went to work at a factory making airplanes. One summer she got a few days off so she and a female friend did a completely self-supported bike tour from their home in Vancouver BC, over to Vancouver Island and back, except that they didn't call it a bike tour. She says they wanted to go on vacation but they didn't have a car and gas was too expensive so they took bikes. They stayed with host families and toted all the things they would need (a change of clothes and some sandwiches) in suitcases tied to their rear racks with string. Their bikes were single speeds so they walked up all the hills. There may have been boyfriends, or brothers or dads who thought that two women shouldn't embark on such a journey alone and on bikes, but that's not how Grandma remembers it. When I talk to Grandma about this trip now, she doesn't see it as a grand adventure the way that I do. She sees it as a fun girls trip she took back before she got married. I think it's a great way to think about adventure - as something that can be quite ordinary. My grandma has some photos from the trip in an old album... there's one of her friend wearing a halter top and short shorts, riding a single speed bike with a suitcase on it... uphill... while grinning ear to ear. Taryn wanted to learn more about her grandmother Carol and a trip that seemed so out of character for her. In this episode, we get to learn, too. Women Featured in this Episode: Taryn and Carol Eyton Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode you'll hear About the value of photographing your adventures What it was like to be a woman working at a factory to support the war effort during World War II How some women were empowered during this time period What bike touring was like in 1944 How the kindness of strangers prevails over the years What gear you'd have on a bike tour in the 1940's Why we might just overpack for our adventures Why Taryn's Grandma Carol doesn't see her bike trip as extraordinary, but why we still think it's an adventure What Taryn values in her grandmother Why it's important to ask our relatives to tell us their stories, especially as time passes Why you might be surprised by what the older women in your life have in their past Sponsored by Escape Campervans and Deuter Resources: Taryn Eyton: Blog, Instagram, and Facebook Episode landing page on She-Explores.com Open Road, Open Sky - Song [Learn more on She-Explores.com][12] Join the conversation in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Sponsors & Codes -Escape Campervans: Use code 'SHEEXPLORES20' for 20% off. Book for now through June 1, 2019! Some restrictions apply - see landing page for details. Deuter Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Lee Rosevere, Josh Woodward, and Jason Shaw via Free Music Archive (CC by A license) Music is also by The Helio Sequence

Cheryl Strayed never planned on giving advice professionally and doesn't love a guru, but she agrees with Anna Brones that everyone has wisdom to bestow upon others. The key is to seek as much as you share. When our friend, the artist and writer Anna Brones offered to chat with Cheryl Strayed at Mountain Film in Telluride for She Explores, the answer was a resounding yes. Anna is working on an ongoing paper cut series called, "Women's Wisdom Project" that has evolved from simple portraits with quotes to full conversations and write ups. This episode is an extension of that concept, and offers us the opportunity to contemplate the wisdom we receive from women in our everyday lives. Women Featured in this Episode: Cheryl Strayed and Anna Brones Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode you'll hear About the evolution of Anna's "Women's Wisdom Project" How Cheryl is an "accidental self help writer" Why advice giving should be a horizontal exchange vs. a top down one The importance of seeking out wisdom in those close to you The influence Cheryl's mom had on her life, in particular as it relates to seeking out beauty in the every day Why kindness and vulnerability are often underrated in our culture Why Anna believes the most revolutionary wisdom is often the most basic How Cheryl sometimes feel like she doesn't 'look like' the type of person to write 'Wild.' That Cheryl is both a 49 year old mom, but also an avid wilderness athlete Why Cheryl is excited to get older How to feel better about saying "no" The role fear plays in stepping outside and creating art The overlaps we all have with the wisdom Cheryl shares How through her writing, Cheryl has told the truth about real life (whether venturing into the wilderness, grieving, or setting your life back on course) and made people feel less alone Sponsored by Escape Campervans and Deuter Resources: Cheryl Strayed: Portfolio, Instagram, and Twitter Anna Brones: Portfolio, Instagram, and Twitter Wild, Tiny Beautiful Things, Dear Sugars podcast Women's Wisdom Project Best American Travel Writing 2018 Learn more on She-Explores.com Join the conversation in our She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Sponsors & Codes -Escape Campervans: Use code 'SHEEXPLORES20' for 20% off. Book for now through June 1, 2019! Some restrictions apply - see landing page for details. Deuter Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Lee Rosevere and Kai Engel via Free Music Archive (CC by A license) Music is also by Liam McNally and Our Many Stars

Sirena Rana Dufault is an expert on trails, but that hasn't always been the case: hers is a hard-won expertise born of patience. Trails inspired her to persevere through the chronic pain of fibromyalgia, develop an intimate relationship with her newfound home state of Arizona, and change the course of her career. Women featured in this episode: Sirena Rana Dufault, founder of Trails Inspire. Hosted by Gale Straub Learn more about Sirena in an editorial feature, Blaze Your Own Trail, on She-Explores.com earlier this year. In this episode, you'll hear: How Sirena started hiking at the age of 19 The impact a car accident and the onset of Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition, had on her life and hiking Tips for women whose romantic partners aren't as interested in hiking or backpacking The benefits for Sirena of hiking solo How to stay connected when you're off the grid What fibromyalgia feels like for Sirena and why she chooses to hike through the pain when she can Why section hiking a long trail is a great alternative to thru hiking History of the Arizona Trail How hiking trails connect communities to hikers and vice versa How Sirena started a career in trails The work she does through her consulting company, Trails Inspire Why promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is a key element of her company's mission statement and how she's already put that mission into practice The book Sirena is working on for Wilderness Press Why Sirena recommends hiking the same trail more than once Sponsors & Codes: Deuter Stamps.com - Use the code "EXPLORES" for a special offer of a 4 week trial, plus postage and a digital scale! Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Sirena Rana Dufault: Instagram, Trails Inspire, Blog Satellite transmitter Sirena uses when she's off the grid hiking: Garmin InReach About the Arizona Trail Music is by Lee Rosevere and Kai Engel via Free Music Archive (CC by A license) Music is also by The Mariner

What’s up with the over-the-top uncertainty we sometimes feel when we try something new? We share two women’s stories of trying new things in the outdoors in spite of self-doubt or feeling like they won’t measure up. Women Featured in this Episode: Locke Hughes and Laura Hughes Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: How Gale sometimes struggles with not feeling "outdoorsy" enough Why Gale felt a bit apprehensive about some new high-altitude activities in Winter Park, Colorado What being outdoorsy in Florida meant to Locke growing up vs. what it means today Why Locke loved mountain biking so much her first time that she decided to move to Utah The benefit of trusting your mountain bike and other lessons that translate to everyday life Why trying new things is rarely as scary as it sounds in your head Why Laura Hughes took the opportunity to take a two week trip rafting and hiking the Alsek River in Alaska How Laura felt before she left Why comparing herself with others makes Laura doubt her abilities in the outdoors What Alaska taught Laura about herself The camera gear Laura brought with her to Alaska The bright spots of challenging weather on a long trip Why Laura thinks we create mental blocks to trying new things at the outdoors at time Sponsored by Escape Campervans and Victorious Resources: Locke Hughes: Instagram and Portfolio Laura Hughes: Instagram and Women on the Road Learn more about Laura's Alaska Experience This is the trip Laura went on with MT Sobek Learn about Winter Park Resort Sponsors & Codes Escape Campervans: Use code 'SHEEXPLORES20' for 20% off. Book for now through June 1, 2019! Some restrictions apply - see landing page for details. Victorious.com/explores: Get your first month free by heading here! Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Jason Shaw and Kai Engel via Free Music Archive (CC by A license) Music is also by Mree.

This is the story of how Gretchen Powers and Alexandra Roberts became adventure partners. It's also about what it means to be an adventure friend, and how you might find one, too. Sponsored by Escape Campervans Women Featured in this Episode: Gretchen Powers and Alexandra Roberts Hosted and Produced by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: How Gretchen and Alex met and why they weren't fast friends Why going through hard things together (emotionally and in the outdoors) can strengthen bonds The value of "just trying" in the outdoors How Gretchen and Alex went from meeting in Maine to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for their friendaversary The importance of knowing your friend's weaknesses in the outdoors Advice for making new friends and adventure partners How to hold onto friends once you make them Learn more on the episode landing page. Sponsors & Codes Escape Campervans: Use code 'SHEEXPLORES20' for 20% off. Book for now through June 1, 2019! Some restrictions apply - see landing page for details. Resources: Gretchen Powers: Portfolio and Instagram Alexandra Roberts: Portfolio and Instagram Gretchen & Alex's first ski trip Organizations to Meet Women in the Outdoors: Women Who Hike, And She's Dope Too, Wylder Goods, Outdoor Women's Alliance, Bold Betties, Hike it Baby, Hiking My Way, She Jumps, Women Who Explore She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Music is by Lee Rosevere and Kai Engel via Free Music Archive (CC by A license) Music is also by Memory Palace.

Your stories of spending time solo in the outdoors. Including a bikepacker, a so-called fat hiker, an aspiring astronaut, an extrovert, two med students, and a backcountry paddler, in short - you and me. It's been almost 2 years since we last asked you about how you adventure solo in Episode 8 of She Explores, Alone on the Trail. Gale asked for new submissions and she received more than she could squeeze into this episode, which is a great thing! It means you're getting out there. Please keep in mind when you listen - there are inherent risks to recreating in the backcountry, whether you're with a friend or by yourself. It's always a good idea to take inventory of your limits. In this episode, you'll hear: How solo time in nature opens up your headspace Why the listeners who submitted take time for themselves solo How Beth Bradley and Jessie Johnson used solo hiking to help quiet the negative body talk that went on in their heads Why getting outside solo isn't always a choice The ways in which you might be physically solo, but not quite alone while you're out there Why an extrovert says it's ok to find other people to adventure with The value of a long thru hike How going it solo can be empowering Some motivation to take the next step Women featured in this episode: Sunny Stroeer: Website, Outside Online Article, Alpinist Article Jodi Spangler: Instagram Jessie Johnson: Instagram Beth Bradley: Watch her full story here; Instagram Francesca Turauskis: SeizeYourAdventure.com Savannah Simmons-Grover: Blog Natalie Izzo: Instagram Kathi Kamleitner: Blog Kristine Turner Emily Sehloff: Instagram Ashley Franklin Sian Proctor: Facebook and Kickstarter Julie Hotz: Instagram and Portfolio Hosted by Gale Straub Sponsors & Codes: Benchmark Maps: use code SHEEXPLORES for 20% off your order Ritual - try your first month! Sawyer: Enter giveaway at She-Explores.com/sawyer World Nomads: Check out their podcast at Worldnomads.com/podcasts Music is by Lee Rosevere, Jason Shaw, and Smaller Tide via Free Music Archive (CC by A license) Music is also by Fort Vine.

Ultrarunner Mirna Valerio is a role model for many because by doing what she loves, she shows others what is possible. She’s modeling being a black, fat girl running, moving her body up and over mountains. Which begs the question - what are you modeling for others? Women featured in this episode: Mirna Valerio, AKA "The Mirnavator." Mirna is a full-time ultrarunner, author, and public speaker. She blogs at Fat Girl Running and Runner's World. Want to meet Mirna in person? Our friend Shanti Hodges is hosting a retreat in October. Learn more here and take $50 off with the code, 'SheExplores' at checkout! Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: Why when Mirna coached high school students, she taught them to love running as a lifestyle How Mirna answers the oft-dreaded question, "What do you do?" How nature and trail running impacts Mirna personally The ways in which joy and suffering balance each other in ultrarunning Why it's important to put in the work, but why it's also important to rest and listen to your body Why Mirna doesn't believe changing one's outward appearance leads to happiness How our culture uplifts a certain beauty standard, and the ways in which Mirna believes this is changing What she's learned from other plus-sized women about what they want their outdoor apparel to be like What Mirna thinks about being a role model for others Who Mirna looks up to in her everyday life Advice for listeners on how they can be a role model Sponsors & Codes: Benchmark Maps: use code SHEEXPLORES for 20% off your order Sawyer: Enter giveaway at She-Explores.com/sawyer World Nomads: Check out their podcast at Worldnomads.com/podcasts Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Mirna Valerio's Instagram Mirna Valerio's Memoir: A Beautiful Work in Progress The Mirnavator - Short Film produced by REI and directed by Sarah Menzies Mirna's blog, Fat Girl Running Submit your story of going solo in the outdoors! She Explores Facebook Group Music is by Lee Rosevere, Kai Engel, and Steve Combs via Free Music Archive (CC by A license) Music is also by Memory Palace.

Sheri Tingey has been making gear in the outdoor industry for the past 50 years, and she's done a lot of it with her own two hands. Learn about what drives her to solve problems, how she learned the important lesson of slowing down, and what happened after she re-started her career in her 50's by founding Alpacka Raft. Sheri started out making custom ski apparel in Jackson Hole in the late 1960's and she founded Alpacka Raft in 2000. The latter revolutionized packrafting as a sport in and of itself. (Color us impressed!) In between the two ventures, Sheri spent 17 years with a then-mysterious illness, chronic fatigue. She raised her kids in Alaska then, but she stayed active in the outdoor community, making custom clothing for dog mushers with her limited energy. She was in her early 50's once she found treatment and started Alpacka Raft. Sheri has fun solving problems and being an entrepreneur - which may just be the secret to her success. Women featured in this episode: Sheri Tingey, the founder of Alpacka Raft, a company that makes Packrafts in Colorado. Sheri has been innovating since the late 1960's when she started a ski apparel company, Design by Sheri, because she couldn't find the ski clothes she needed. Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: What the outdoor industry was like in the late 1960's and 70's The catalyst for Sheri's first company, Design by Sheri When Sheri knew it was time to move on from her first venture How chronic fatigue affects your body and creative ability The value of slowing down, and how Sheri incorporates that lesson in her life (and work) today What it's like to gain confidence again after treatment for a chronic illness What packrafting is The unique challenges and rewards of a product-based company The importance of re-evaluating your business after it's been around for a certain period of time Why sometimes it's better to stay small as a company Sheri's advice for other entrepreneurs as she looks back at her career Sponsors & Codes: Benchmark Maps: use code SHEEXPLORES for 20% off your order Sawyer: Enter giveaway at She-Explores.com/sawyer Stamps.com: use code EXPLORES after clicking on the mic for a free 4 week trial, postage, and a digital scale! World Nomads: Check out their podcast at Worldnomads.com/podcasts Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Alpacka Raft Ray Jardine's Lightweight Backpacking She Explores Facebook Group Music is by Lee Rosevere, Kai Engel, and Steve Combs via Free Music Archive (CC by A license) Music is also by Memory Palace

A beginner's guide of sorts to advocating for land we can all love and enjoy. This week, we’re back camping with Amanda Machado, the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), and 13 women who are passionate about learning about championing public land. Women featured in this episode: Special reporter Amanda Machado (learn more at brownenvironmentalist.org); Laura Torres, Megan Hernbroth, Amy Wong, Aracelli Hernandez, Briget Underwood, Christine Mariano, Grace Rougier, Jenifer Mendez, Jenny Lopez, Nanci Torres-Poblano, Maricela Rosales, Miyuki Gomez, Michelle Magalong, Rebeca Contreras, and Sally Garcia. Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: Camper Amy Wong's story of love of the outdoors and public land starting in her own backyard Why public lands matter to the women attending a campout with the NPCA The unique relationship women of color have with parks How to make the outdoors more accessible to all people How the outdoor industry is gradually changing and the importance of brands getting behind issues of accessibility to public land Steps the NPCA recommends to get started with advocacy for public land The impact sharing the outdoors with people you love has on your life and public land A summary of tangible action steps for getting involved Sponsors & Codes: Ridge Wallet: Get 10% off (and free worldwide shipping) at checkout with code EXPLORE Sawyer: Enter giveaway at She-Explores.com/sawyer Ritual - Ritual.com/explore Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: National Parks Conservation Association: Website NPCA Advocacy Amanda Machado: Portfolio Brown Environmentalist She Explores Episode 19: Finding Your Voice to Speak for Public Land Brown People Camping Latino Outdoors Brothers of Climbing Melanin Basecamp She Explores Facebook Group Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Lee Rosevere, Josh Woodward, Kai Engel via freemusicarchive.org with a CC by A license.

Ever feel like you're alone in your relationship with the outdoors? Join a group of women who are leading by example in their communities by spending time outside and breaking ground for others to do the same. Amanda Machado shares her experience camping with the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) for a special night near Los Angeles. Because it was rainy, the group huddled until tarps and told stories about how they find healing in the outdoors. And by doing so, they found friendship and the realization that they weren't going it alone. The event was unique in that the majority of the women are Latina, which added an integral layer to what they had in common. This episode reminds us of the importance of spending time outside with other women and encouraging each other to share. Women featured in this episode: Special reporter Amanda Machado (learn more at brownenvironmentalist.org); Laura Torres, Megan Hernbroth, Amy Wong, Aracelli Hernandez, Briget Underwood, Christine Mariano, Grace Rougier, Jenifer Mendez, Jenny Lopez, Nanci Torres-Poblano, Maricela Rosales, Miyuki Gomez, Rebeca Contreras, and Sally Garcia. Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: About the purpose of the women's camping trip with NPCA Why the women wanted to attend Personal early memories of outdoor experiences Why "gear shaming" is a thing (but really shouldn't be) What it's often like for Latinx to explain their love of the outdoors to their families How the outdoors is healing for the women who attended The ways in which this healing is unique to Latina women and children of immigrants What the women took away from the experience Sponsors & Codes: Ridge Wallet: Get 10% off (and free worldwide shipping) at checkout with code EXPLORE Sawyer: Enter giveaway at She-Explores.com/sawyer World Nomads - Listen to their podcast! Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: National Parks Conservation Association: Website Amanda Machado: Portfolio Brown Environmentalist Vox.com article: The Strangeness of Being a Latina Who Loves Hiking REI She Explores Facebook Group Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Lee Rosevere, Josh Woodward, Kai Engel via freemusicarchive.org with a CC by A license. Music is also by WMD.

Could a hike a week change your life? Interview with Karla Amador, co-founder of 52 Hike Challenge. We talk about why she chose to hike 52 times in a year, how It helped clarify what she wanted out of work and life, and how a feeling of accomplishment can carry with you long after the trail. Women featured in this episode: Karla Amador Hosted by Gale Straub In this episode, you'll hear: How Karla’s mom (and adventurous spirit) was a positive influence Why a divorce lead to Karla taking one hike a week for a year The impact 52 hikes had on Karla’s work and active life Why Karla and her partner wanted to share the 52 Hike Challenge with others Why a hike can be as long or as short as you want it to be How a feeling of accomplishment can carry with you Gale and Karla talking about ideas for business growth Advice for listeners interested in starting a business What's next for 52 Hike Challenge Preroll Sponsors & Codes: High Hopes Hammock: Use code SHEEXPLORES30 at checkout for 30% off Sawyer: Enter giveaway at She-Explores.com/sawyer Midroll Sponsors & Codes: Stamps.com: Use code EXPLORES at checkout for first month trial free + signup package Benchmark Maps: Use code SHEEXPLORES at checkout for 20% off Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: 52 Hike Challenge Website, Instagram, and Facebook Karla's Instagram Episode 69 Landing Page Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Lee Rosevere, Josh Woodward, Kai Engel, and Steve Combs via freemusicarchive.org with a CC by A license. Music is also by Our Many Stars.

Kareemah Batts is a cancer survivor and the founder of Adaptive Climbing Group. After finding climbing after losing part of her leg to cancer, Kareemah wanted to share the feeling she has on the wall with others. She's done with sympathy, she just wants to climb. Women featured in this episode: Kareemah Batts Hosted by Gale Straub Featured in the midroll: Maggie Peikon Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. In this episode, you'll hear: About the outdoor activities you can access in and around New York City How Kareemah got into rock climbing, despite reservations Why it can be difficult to go back to your favorite activities after an amputation The impact First Descents had on Kareemah's re-discovering her love for the outdoors post-cancer How discrimination can impact a job search when you have a disability Why Kareemah wanted to share climbing with other people, and why she believes anyone can climb How disability is a culture The growing pains of starting a nonprofit climbing program and the significance of organic growth Tips for how to be more welcoming to disabled people in the outdoors (hint, treat them the same as anyone else) How Adaptive Climbing Group's unique training instills empathy into their instructors Why Kareemah is motivated to keep doing what she's doing Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Vasque. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Adaptive Climbing Group: Website, Instagram, and Facebook Kareemah Batts: Instagram and Facebook Donate to Adaptive Climbing Group First Descents Vasque Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Lee Rosevere and Meydan via freemusicarchive.org with a CC by A license. Music is also by Kevin J. Simon.

Jenny Bruso is the founder of Unlikely Hikers. Her work is rooted in her belief that there is room for every body on the trail. Jenny is queer, fat, and femme, and she's passionate about cultivating a safe space in the outdoors for people of all backgrounds and body sizes. Unlikely Hikers is just two years old, but its positive reception proves that the time is right for outdoor media and meetups that include rather than exclude, and encourage people to occupy their bodies rather than critique them. We talk with Jenny about Unlikely Hikers' growth, how straight-sized people can be considerate of others while in the outdoors, where she finds her hiking apparel, and more. Women featured in this episode: Jenny Bruso Hosted by Gale Straub Featured in the midroll: Kaily Gashi, hiker and mother of twins Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. In this episode, you'll hear: Why Jenny Bruso started Unlikely Hikers and what it means to be one How her time on the trail equates to self care How Unlikely Hikers group hikes intentionally cultivate a safe space for all people (including queer, trans, people of color, fat, disabled, etc.) Why Jenny's ground rules for hikes include not talking about weight or dieting The assumptions straight-sized people make about fat people on the trail (and how to avoid making them) Why representation of marginalized communities in the outdoor industry won't change unless those communities are included when decisions are being made The lack of options available for plus sized athletic clothing (and who is doing a good job) Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Vasque. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Jenny Bruso: Unlikely Hikers Instagram & Blog, JennyBruso.com Donate to Jenny Bruso Huffington Post article on Unlikely Hikers Unruly Bodies Essays Outside Online: "I don't hike to lose weight, I hike because I love it" Diversify Outdoors SHIFT Conference Melanin Basecamp Brown People Camping Brothers of Climbing Flash Foxy Vasque Kaily Gashi Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Lee Rosevere and Evan Schaeffer via freemusicarchive.org with a CC by A license. Music is also by Feverkin.

Simone Martin-Newberry is a plant person. And the attention she pays to flora has led to her discovery that contrary to what most media would have you believe, nature is everywhere - especially if you're open to finding it. Simone is naturally curious. She speaks with a deep reverence for the natural world, whether she finds it within the bounds of her longtime city of Chicago or when using her vacation from her full time work as a graphic designer to take trips around the US. Simone has a beautiful blog called “Darker Than Green” where she documents her appreciation for flora with photographs, green city guides, and contemplative writing. Women featured in this episode: Simone Martin Newberry Featured in the midroll: Sasha Cox, founder of Trail Mavens Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. In this episode, you'll hear: The benefits of having plants in your home How Chicago values green spaces What 'outdoor time' means to Simone living in a city that places importance on public space Why you don't have to drive hours from your city to appreciate (and benefit from) the outdoors Embracing the in-between moments and reflecting them social media How plants can parallel the human experience How discomfort makes us better equipped for future decisions Advice for experiencing our National Parks in a way that acknowledges their history and the history of the people who lived on their land Why Simone identifies as an artist Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Vasque. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Simone Martin-: Instagram, Portfolio, & Blog, Darker Than Green Grist.org Video - Our National Parks Belong to Everyone. So Why Are They So White? Bell Hooks Vasque Trail Mavens Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Chris Zabriskie, Lee Rosevere, Josh Woodward, and Kai Engel via freemusicarchive.org with a CC by A license. Music is also by Emancipator. A note about Episode 65 - we incorrected stated that Brooke Holloway spoke at about 20:36, this was in fact Paige Garratt.

In climbing, it's key trust yourself and your community. Discover what it's like to attend the Flash Foxy Women's Climbing Festival through the ears of a beginner. Jaymie Shearer takes us to Bishop, CA to climb, contemplate, and learn some life lessons. Women featured in this episode: Jaymie Shearer, Shelma Jun, Claudia Gallegos, Shelma Jun, Tristin Vaughn, Savannah Norris-Jenkins, Jolie Varela, and Brooke Holloway. Featured in the midroll: Stephanie Harper. In this episode, you'll hear: Thoughts on setting intentions to respectfully climb and recreate in outdoor spaces An introduction to three types of climbing: trad, sport, and bouldering What it's like to climb with just women The element of fear in rock climbing and how it relates to life What it means to 'identify as a climber' Learning to your strengths How Shelma Jun got started climbing and where she found mentorship The need for more mentors in climbing The importance of being vocal in outdoor situations Real women talking about why they love rock climbing Advice for how to invite others in and create safe spaces for women in outdoor activities Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Vasque. Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Jaymie Shearer: Instagram and Portfolio Flash Foxy Women's Climbing Festival Friends of the Inyo Leave No Trace Principles Indigenous Women Hike The Mentorship Gap (article by Shelma Jun) Vasque Sanni McCandless Coaching Raising Kids Wild Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Chris Zabriskie, Lee Rosevere, and Kai Engel via freemusicarchive.org with a [CC by A][15] license. Music is also by Distance.

Those moments on the trail when you just have to laugh because it's the only way forward. Live storytelling of mishaps in the outdoors and an interview with Marielle Cowdin of Oregon Wild. Recorded at the Columbia Flagship store in Portland, OR. Women Featured in this Episode: Marielle Cowdin, Amy Faust, Stephanie Smith, Stacey Arnold, and Stephanie Makris Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. In this episode, you'll hear: About how Marielle Cowdin's love of the outdoors overlaps with her work at Oregon Wild, an environmental nonprofit Advice for hiking and camping solo Advice for getting started in the nonprofit field Marielle's funny stories on the trail (including animal encounters) Live stories about when things go "wrong" hiking in the Pacific Northwest and elsewhere (spoiler alert: it probably rains) Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Columbia Sportswear. Watch the "Offline" video featuring She Explores here. Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Oregon Wild Marielle Cowdin's Instagram Stephanie Smith: Boredom the Adventure Youtube and Instagram Stacey Arnold: Blog, Instagram, Facebook Stephanie Makris: Instagram Columbia Sportswear Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Chris Zabriskie via freemusicarchive.org with a CC by A license. Music is also by Danielle Grubb.

What happens when we take risks when we’re spending time outside? How does it pay off and when does it backfire? These are your stories of taking risks in the outdoors. Women Featured in this Episode: Hallie Seay Shelby Stanger, Host of Wild Ideas Worth Living Claire Giordano, Instagram & Portfolio Karen Wang, Instagram & Portfolio Megan Bixel Brooke Weeber, Instagram Sheree Angela Matthews Nikki Frumkin, Instagram & Portfolio Mara Johnson-Groh Danielle O'Farrell, Instagram & Portfolio Ashleigh C, Instagram Rebecca Becky Jensen, Portfolio Tori Duhaime, Instagram Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. In this episode, you'll hear: How listener Rebecca went from self-identifying as "not a risk-taker" to going on her first backpacking trip How trying something new can help change the expectations you have of yourself About the clarity you can find by hiking solo The way risks you take in the outdoors can mirror your everyday life The challenges of plein air painting When not getting a job turns into an opportunity Climbing Mount Whitney for sunrise Surviving a big storm on your first solo hike The importance of differentiating between risk and unneccessary risk Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Columbia Sportswear. Watch the "Offline" video featuring She Explores here. Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Live She Explores Event: Portland Oregon Sarah's production company: [Le Columbia "Offline" Film Columbia Sportswear Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Original Music is by Liam McNally. Find him on Instagram. Music for this episode is by Chris Zabriskie via freemusicarchive.org with a CC by A license.

Sarah Menzies is all in. Whether it's her adventure documentary film career or her relationships, Sarah is fully committed to following through on giving back to others. Sarah’s story is about what she would do for her many loves, and in turn, and what they would do for her. The filmmaker behind the short pieces, "The Mirnavator" and "A Steelhead Quest," Sarah's first full-length documentary film, "Afghan Cycles" is debuting at Hot Docs April 29th. Afghan Cycles uses the bicycle to tell a story of women’s rights - human rights - and the struggles faced by Afghan women on a daily basis, from discrimination to abuse, to the oppressive silencing of their voices in all aspects of contemporary society. These women ride despite cultural barriers, despite infrastructure, and despite death threats, embracing the power and freedom that comes with the sport. With the help of her girlfriend Katilin Bailey, we talk with Sarah about the evolution of her promising career. Women Featured in this Episode: Sarah Menzies and Kaitlin Bailey Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. In this episode, you'll hear: How Sarah became a documentary filmmaker and lessons learned along the way The importance of (at times) removing yourself from the story Tips for getting started in the outdoor film industry What fishing can teach you about patience, generosity, and the environment The parallels between bicycling in Afghanistan and the suffrage movement in the United States The challenges faced by Afghan women and their perseverance in spite of them. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Columbia Sportswear. Watch the "Offline" video featuring She Explores here. Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Live She Explores Event: Portland Oregon Sarah's production company: Let Media Outside Online: Sarah Menzies Knows the World's Coolest Women The Mirnavator A Steelhead Quest Afghan Cycles Website Columbia "Offline" Film Columbia Sportswear Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Chris Zabriskie, Kai Engel, and Lee Rosevere via freemusicarchive.org with a CC by A license. Music is also by Kent Rockefeller.

What happens when we go offline for a camping and hiking trip in the Olympic Peninsula with a plein air painter and a food blogger? We get really inspired. In a lot of ways, this is a simple episode about making friends offline. But it’s also about the headspace you cultivate when you step outside and how that makes room for thought and inspiration. And it’s also about experiencing an outdoor space through creative work and wanting to dig deeper than surface level when recreating. Last August, Columbia Sportswear brought Megan McDuffie and Heidi Annalise and (host) Gale Straub together for a backpacking trip. They learn about the surprising things they have in common, as well as the landscape around them. And to learn more, Gale calls up local Lorraine Greene, a member of the Makah tribe. Women Featured in this Episode: Heidi Annalise, Megan McDuffie, and Lorraine Greene. Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. In this episode, you'll hear: The benefits of taking online friends offline in the outdoors How food blogger Megan McDuffie and painter Heidi Annalise got started How the outdoors inspires creativity in us Insight as to what it's like to grow up on the Olympic Peninsula as a member of the Makah Tribe The sounds of the Olympic Peninsula of Washington Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Columbia Sportswear. Watch the "Offline" video featuring She Explores here. Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: Columbia "Offline" Film Columbia OutDry Extreme The Sea is My Country by Joshua L. Reid Fresh Off the Grid Fresh Off the Grid Instagram Heidi Annalise Art Heidi Annalise Instagram Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Chris Zabriskie, Kai Engel, and Lee Rosevere via freemusicarchive.org with a CC by A license. Music is also by Snow Palms.

Jessi Johnson is a bowhunter and a public lands advocate. This week we're presenting a story from the HumaNature podcast about how one backcountry trip lead her on a heartbreaking odyssey. You can see photos and videos from Jessi's hunt, and more information about her nonprofit work, at HumaNaturePodcast.org. You can also hear more stories about human experiences in nature there, too. The story was produced by Caroline Ballard, Alanna Elder, Erin Jones, August Lah, Annie Osburn, Anna Rader, Micah Schweizer and Tressa Versteeg. HumaNature is a production of Wyoming Public Media. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Resources mentioned in this episode: HumaNaturepodcast.org Artemis Wyoming Wildlife She Explores Podcast Facebook Group Heliograph by Chris Zabriskie is licensed under a Attribution License. Candlepower by Chris Zabriskie is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. The Sun is Scheduled to Come Out Tomorrow by Chris Zabriskie is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. What True Self, Feels Bogus, Let's Watch Jason X by Chris Zabriskie is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. Desire by Borrtex is licensed under an Attribution-NonCommercial License. Dout by Oelek is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 International License. Celeste by Alex Fitch is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial 3.0 International License. Memoir of Solitude by Borrtex is licensed under a Attribution-NonCommercial License. The Ambient by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. Everybody's Got Problems That Aren't Mine by Chris Zabriskie is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license. We Were Never Meant to Live Here by Chris Zabriskie is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license

Sisters Alex and Sage Herr have been summiting peaks in the White Mountains since they were 5 years old. Now 15 and almost 13, respectively, their enthusiasm for hiking has remained the same as ever. Proof that for all the activities we grow out of in life, there’s no saying you have to grow out of hiking. Gale met up with the girls and their mom, Trish, for a winter hike of WIldcat Ridge. After hearing about their podcast, Granite Gals, we wanted to learn more. We talk about why they started hiking at such a young age, what makes them want to take on big challenges, hiking solo, what excites them about podcasting, and the benefits of hiking with your kids. Featured in this Episode: Patricia (Trish) Herr, Sage Herr, and Alexandra Herr. Listen to their podcast, Granite Gals, via their website, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you stream stories. Featured in the midroll: Cartoonist Connie Sun aka @cartoonconnie. Connie draws cartoons and they've helped her get in touch with her emotions and her outdoorsy self. Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. In this episode, you'll hear: How the girls started hiking 4,000 footers in New Hampshire at age 5 Some NH hiking vernacular Why Alex enjoys hiking solo The origins of the "Terrifying 25" hikes in NH Why the girls like a hiking challenge What "gridding" is in the White Mountains How Granite Gals podcast got started Why the girls talk about sexism on their show The benefits of incorporating hiking into their lives Midroll: Cartoonist Connie Sun shares what she loves about cartooning her innermost thoughts and outdoor experiences Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Links mentioned in this episode: Alex's Hiking Blog Granite Gals The Terrifying 25 4,000 Footers Cartoon Connie Connie Wonnie Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Josh Woodward, Kai Engel, and Lee Rosevere via freemusicarchive.org. Music is also by Siren and the Sea.

We often live with timelines in our minds. We’re really good at building a narrative for ourselves: "by this age, I want to do have accomplished______." Maybe it's a list of mountains to climb, or debt to repay, or a family to grow - we all tuck dreams in the back of our minds. And yet the older we get, the more we realize that life gets in the way. Many of us end up looking in the mirror and asking the scariest of questions: Am I allowed to change my dream? And other questions run parallel: How stuck is too stuck in my ways? What if I'm working towards something but I've lost sight of why? What if I can't articulate what I want? How fortunate am I to ask these questions in the first place? This special episode in partnership with Subaru gathered 12 adventurous and creative women in the high desert of Marfa, TX to contemplate these questions and to consider how the outdoors plays a role in helping us to navigate crossroads in our lives. Women Featured in this Episode: Jules Davies, Shelma Jun, Kaylé Barnes, Kristen Blanton, Sarah Uhl, Sara Close, Nic Annette Miller, Sarah Menzies, Anna Brones, Laura Hughes, and Gale Straub. Other women in Marfa include runner Sarah Attar, photographer Sarah Forrest, farmer Andrea Bemis, and fabricator Kelly DeWitt. Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. In this episode, you'll hear: The ways the outdoors helps us at points of transition How privilege plays a role in making time to contemplate dreams Why dreams can be scary to acknowledge Honest talk about depression How a professional cyclist became a landscape painter Why simple dreams are just as important as 'big' ones Encouragement to focus on the present rather than constantly looking ahead or behind. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Subaru. Learn more at www.meetanowner.com and follow along on Instagram: @subaru_usa Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Links mentioned in this episode: Jules Davies: Portfolio & Instagram; Shelma Jun: Flash Foxy, Never Not Collective; Kaylé Barnes: The Great Outchea Instagram & blog; Kristen Blanton: Hello America Instagram & website; Sara Close: Hello Soul; Sarah Uhl: Portfolio & Instagram; Nic Annette Miller: Portfolio & Instagram; Sarah Menzies: Let Media & Instagram; Anna Brones: Portfolio & Instagram; Laura Hughes: Portfolio & Instagram; Sarah Forrest: Website & Instagram; Sarah Attar: Website & Instagram Andrea Bemis: Blog & Instagram; Kelly DeWitt: Website & Instagram Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Swelling, Kai Engel, and Lee Rosevere via freemusicarchive.org. Music is also by Our Many Stars.

Caro Luevanos-Garcia believes the key to closing the gaps between generations can be found in the outdoors. And she also believes the inverse: that people across generations can find the outdoors with the help of each other. Caro started hiking, backpacking, and running when she retired from a career in corrections at the age of 50. Now 56, she’s run 26 half marathons in 18 states. She loves backpacking. She’s hiked Half Dome twice and section-hiked 90% of the John Muir Trail. In short, she’s made up for lost time. Now that she's discovered that love, she wants to share it with her grandson to make sure he's comfortable in the outdoors from a young age. Women Featured in this Episode: Carolina Luevanos-Garcia. Follow her on Instagram @abuelaafuera & @carohikedhere. Read her writing on her blog. Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. In this episode, you'll hear: How Caro's relationship with the outdoors (as a first-generation American) was influenced by her parents Barriers to more traditional outdoor activities for some people of color Why Caro started running and hiking before retirement at 50 Advice Caro has for her younger self How saying yes has benefited Caro in her retirement Caro's philosophy on the benefits of older people taking younger people into the outdoors Why the outdoor industry should represent more older people in their marketing A call-to-action from Caro that will help diversify outdoor spaces Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Subaru. Learn more at www.meetanowner.com and follow along on Instagram: @subaru_usa Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Links mentioned in this episode: Caro's Instagram: @abuelaafuera Latino Outdoors Outdoor Afro Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Swelling, Josh Woodward, Kai Engel, and Lee Rosevere via freemusicarchive.org. Music is also by Dobsy.

A book is often just a jumping off point to talk about other topics we care deeply about. In this episode, we bring mountain guide and writer Charlotte Austin's Adventure Grapes Online Book Club to life. Along with Charlotte and outdoor author Shawnté Salabert, host Gale Straub discusses questions of gender roles in the outdoors and adventure narratives, as well as the outdoors' role in mental health issues. All was talked about in the context of "All That Glitters," a memoir by ice climber Margo Talbot. Women Featured in this Episode: Charlotte Austin and Shawnté Salabert Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Subaru. Learn more at www.meetanowner.com and follow along on Instagram: @subaru_usa Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Links mentioned in this episode: Adventure Grapes Book Club All That Glitters by Margo Talbot Hiking the PCT Southern California by Shawnté Salabert Wild by Cheryl Strayed Savage Summit by Jennifer Jordan Annapurna by Arlene Blum Pure Land by Annette McGivney Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Swelling, Josh Woodward, and Lee Rosevere via freemusicarchive.org. Music is also by Daniel M. Petersen.

When Annette says that she has something in common with a murderer, she’s right. And she also has something in common with a tourist from Japan, as well as the American landscape. Annette doesn’t hold anything back - at her core, she’s a journalist. She investigates her own story like she investigates that of all the subjects in the book. Each person came alive through her diligent research, resulting in a tribute to a curious woman named Tomomi, sympathy for the man who killed her, and a reunion with Annette's childhood self. Annette's is a story of trauma, healing, and connection. While there's darkness, there's a whole lot of light. Annette founded a nonprofit called Healing Lands Project to help children who have experienced trauma. Women Featured in this Episode: Annette McGivney Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. Sponsored by Subaru. Learn more at www.meetanowner.com and follow along on Instagram: @subaru_usa Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Links mentioned in this episode: Healing Lands Project Pure Land by Annette McGivney Annette's Portfolio Adventure Grapes Book Club All That Glitters by Margo Talbot Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Swelling and Lee Rosevere via freemusicarchive.org. Music is also by Ryan Teague.

What is it like to enjoy the outdoors after the age of 50? We asked and you answered. We're honored to be highlighting the wisdom and experience of women in their 50's, 60's, and 70's. These are voices that we don't hear as often in our youth obsessed culture. All of these stories are extraordinary for their willingness to share, try new things, and encourage others to do the same. Women Featured in this Episode: Jo Ann Hickey, Jean Drummond, Cheryl Falkenburg, Joann Baste, Kristi, Kathleen Merrick, Liz Wise, Rose Burrows, Tricia, Hellen Wallis, Sarah Lefler, Lisa Auvril, Gail Storey, Lori Brookes, & Dianna Stavros Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. She Explores is sponsored by Health IQ, an insurance company that helps health conscious people like runners, cyclist, weightlifters and vegetarians get lower rates on their life insurance. Go to healthiq.com/sheexplores to support the show and see if you qualify. She Explores is also sponsored by Deuter. Thank you to them for the support! Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Links mentioned in this episode: Adventure Grapes Book Club All That Glitters by Margo Talbot Pure Land by Annette McGivney I Promise Not To Suffer: A Fool for Love Hikes the Pacific Crest Trail by Gail Storey Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Josh Woodward, Kai Engel, and Lee Rosevere via freemusicarchive.org. Music is also by Our Many Stars.

Interview with Jaylyn Gough, Navajo outdoors woman and founder of Native Women's Wilderness. Jaylyn has found strength and healing in the outdoors. She talks about why she shares her connection with the land with other Native Americans, how non-natives can support her work, and her long term vision for Native Women's Wilderness. Our conversation is inextricably linked to trauma, but it is also filled with hope. Jaylyn's experiences as a child growing up on the Navajo reservation in Gallup, New Mexico, set her on her path. She was adopted at a young age, and it was both due to her adopted mother's generosity and certain hardships on the reservation that made her want to become a social worker. But as Jaylyn says, her childhood felt rich with the land. Jaylyn has a deep-seated drive to help people, especially women, overcome suffering. She also wants to see more women of color and native women on the trail and represented in outdoor media. Jaylyn's passion shines through every moment of this episode - we hope you'll find as much inspiration as we did in meeting her. Learn more about Native Women's Wilderness on Instagram and Facebook. Their new website will be live within the next day or two, visit it at www.nativewomenswilderness.org. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. She Explores is sponsored by Health IQ, an insurance company that helps health conscious people like runners, cyclist, weightlifters and vegetarians get lower rates on their life insurance. Go to healthiq.com/sheexplores to support the show and see if you qualify. She Explores is also sponsored by Deuter. Thank you to them for the support! Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Visit She-Explores.com Links mentioned in this episode: Indigenous Women Hike Indigenous Women Climb Natives Outdoors Unlikely HIkers Hosted and produced by Gale Straub. Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Josh Woodward, Kai Engel, and Lee Rosevere via freemusicarchive.org.

Nicole Brown is founder of Women Who Hike. In October, she set out to hike Southern California's three highest mountains in 24 hours. Nicole was confident leading up to the challenge, but very little went according to plan. Learn about the power of her community, living (and hiking) with a chronic autoimmune disease, and committing to a challenge, even when success might just be out of reach. Learn more about Women Who Hike on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Nicole's adventures through her Instagram. Enter the first ever Women Who Hike Challenge! Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. She Explores is sponsored by Health IQ, an insurance company that helps health conscious people like runners, cyclist, weightlifters and vegetarians get lower rates on their life insurance. Go to healthiq.com/sheexplores to support the show and see if you qualify. She Explores is also sponsored by Deuter. Thank you to them for the support! Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Episodes air weekly on Wednesdays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Josh Woodward and Lee Rosevere via freemusicarchive.org.

After 15 years working a practicing lawyer, Marinel de Jesus decided to leave her legal career to pursue her love of the mountains and run her trekking company, Peak Explorations, full time. Marinel’s is a story of great cultural expectations: after a childhood growing up in the Philippines, Marinel moved to Seattle at the age of 13. Her parents instilled in her the importance of stability: finding a good job, marrying, having a family. As the only daughter, she was closely protected and encouraged not to take risks. Find out how Marinel started listening to her inner voice, taking groups on treks around the world, and using her skills to advocate for others. Follow Marinel de Jesus's adventures through her Instagram and her blog, Brown Gal Trekker. Learn more about her trekking company, Peak Explorations LLC. Enjoy this episode? Rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. It’ll help other people find us. She Explores is sponsored by Health IQ, an insurance company that helps health conscious people like runners, cyclist, weightlifters and vegetarians get lower rates on their life insurance. Go to healthiq.com/sheexplores to support the show and see if you qualify. She Explores is also sponsored by Deuter. Thank you to them for the support! Join the She Explores Podcast community on Facebook. Episodes air weekly on Fridays-- subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode. Music for this episode is by Josh Woodward, Kai Engel, Lee Rosevere, and Pipe Choir via freemusicarchive.org.