Mighty Blue On The Appalachian Trail: The Ultimate Mid-Life Crisis
An overweight, 61-year-old retiree, with zero hiking experience, decided to hike the entire 2,185.3 mile length of the Appalachian Trail in 2014. What could possibly go wrong? As his brother, Mike, commented, "It's a bit like taking up boxing and fighting Mike Tyson in your first bout." Join Steve and his guests as they discuss all aspects of the trail, from gear to Lyme Disease, then back to trail magic and injury.
Sat, April 05, 2025
Episode #478 - Annika Ananias (Ravenclaw)
We have a German hiker on the podcast this week. Annika Ananias recently flew into the US to hike the Arizona Trail with her American boyfriend, when she was pulled out of line, harshly interrogated, deported, and banned from re-entering the country for five years. This, despite having a ten-year visa. She has a compelling story. I wanted to hear from Annika in her own words. The Trek wrote a great article about her that left me with a few questions I wanted to clear up with her. As you’ll hear, she is articulate and tells her alarming story with clarity. These links will tell you more of the story and, if you’re able to read German or you can get it translated, at the end of the list is an article she wrote to warn fellow European hikers of the situation they may face in the US. Annika Ananias / "Ravenclaw", Author at The Trek German Thru-Hiker Detained, Deported, and Banned From US - The Trek Einreise in die USA: Warum ein Visum keine Garantie ist und wie ihr euch vorbereiten solltet - Weltwanderin Both of our Mighty Blue Class of 2025 are now on trail. Beth saet out this past week, and we catch up with her and her stepson, Andrew, at Woody Gap, with their first impressions. Dave is now into Hot Springs, some 275 miles ahead of Beth, and he is zeroing there to give back to the local community by spending in local businesses. I used my hike last year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been priv
Thu, March 27, 2025
Episode #477 - Bill Zyckowski (Big Willy Dawg)
This week, we meet Bill Zyckowski, or Big Willy Dawg. Bill is a retired police officer who truly needed a walk in the woods to bring some meaning to his life. As you’ll hear, he embraced it thoroughly, forming a strong bond with his fellow hikers, the majority of whom were decades younger. He emerged changed, as many of us do. You can learn more about Bill–and follow him on his hiking adventures–on YouTube at BigWillyDawg Beth is less than a week away from her AT thru-hike start. This week, we talk last minute preparations and imminent plans. Next week, we’ll hear from her from the trail. Already out there, Dave Santi has passed the 200 mile mark and, twinges aside, is sounding strong and in control of his hike. Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike last year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Wood
Thu, March 20, 2025
Episode #476 - Nicole Markovich (Droplet)
Nicole Markovich joins us on the podcast to tell us about her 2022 AT thru-hike, the drastic changes to her life that ensued, and the ultimate formation of a business that encompassed both her teaching and backpacking experience. As if that wasn’t enough, she also met the man who would become her boyfriend at Springer Mountain the first night on trail. Undeterred by the distance between their respective lives, Nicole moved to Tennessee to start a new life and a new business. You can find out more about Nicole’s guiding trips and engage with her on social media by clicking the links below. Wildwood Hiking Co. Wildwood Hiking Co. Instagram (@wildwood_hiking_co) Instagram (@travel_by_trail) Dave is at Franklin, NC, adjusting to life on trail with new friends and even some new gear. Beth shares her musical favorites as she gets ready to hit the trail very soon. Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at <a class="css-1rn59kg" title= "https://www.emilysescapades.com/product-page/happy-hiking" href= "https://www.emily
Thu, March 13, 2025
Episode #475 - Nick Panetta
Nick Panetta is our guest this week. He is an avid section hiker on the Appalachian Trail, and a stickler for detail. He attempted a southbound thru-hike back in 2012, was woefully ill-prepared, and only made it part of the way through the 100 Mile Wilderness. Undeterred, perhaps even more determined, Nick went away and started to understand the requirements for extensive backpacking over a period of time. He shed plenty of excess weight in his gear, and now prepares methodically with spreadsheets to guide him along his way. Nick’s is an instructive story on how to learn by one’s mistakes and prepare for the trail as best you can to mitigate risks along the way. Our Mighty Blue Class of 2025 brings Beth back to the show as she prepares for her own thru-hike attempt at the end of this month, while Dave checks in with us on his reflections–and a picture from the Green Dragon Hostel–of the first few days. Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available a
Thu, March 06, 2025
Episode #474 - Shelley Harris (Hopscotch)
I saw a great Facebook post on one of the Appalachian Trail pages recently. Shelley Harris (Hopscotch) wrote her reflections after her thru-hike, offering common sense solutions to those contemplating such an adventure. Basically, Shelley suggested that you can figure it out as you go along, and you shouldn’t stress the details. Our over-cautious, everybody-has-an-opinion world tends to forget the simple truths, which apply not only to hiking but also to everyday life. For me, Shelley was a breath of fresh air. For the first time in our Mighty Blue Class of 2025, both Beth and Dave are on the show. Beth shares her gear choices, while Dave has a few last-minute thoughts, and anticipates the impending journey ahead. Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike last year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="button" href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs" aria-label= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yX
Thu, February 27, 2025
Episode #473 - JC Van Etten (Catmando) Triple Crowner
JC Van Etten, or Catmando returns to the show. We first met him on the Appalachian Trail a few years ago, I seem to have missed him on the PCT, but caught up with him again after his Continental Divide Trail thru-hike last year to complete his Triple Crown. Cat is a great raconteur, sharing plenty of advice through our conversation, as well as recording some of the epic sights he was able to see out on the CDT. One of those epic sights was a chance encounter with four grizzly bears which, startlingly, Cat decided to capture with his iPhone. Here’s the link. Four Grizzlies!!! Dave Santi and I talked again, this time invoking our Desert Island Discs take-off, with Dave’s choices of music that evoke memories for him. Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike last year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="button" href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs" aria-label= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=P
Thu, February 20, 2025
Episode #472 - David Alan Lane (Squarepeg)
We meet David Alan Lane, aka Squarepeg, today. David has been sharing his trail experience extensively over the past few years on Facebook. He helps with all sorts of advice, including gear and what to eat out on trail. It’s a cherished resource for hikers. Now, David has put together another Facebook page that is ambitious in its scope. He has formed Slackpack the Appalachian Trail with Squarepeg, and will shortly be heading north on a big slackpack that will have members drop in and drop out along the way. Steve and David discuss this new venture, as well as his other experiences hiking the Appalachian Trail. You can check out his two Facebook groups here at https://www.facebook.com/groups/1394634307891967 and https://www.facebook.com/SquarepegsHikeTalk Dave Santi and Steve talk about inspiration and motivation in the second of his four pre-hike conversations as he gears up to head out in early March. Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . <p data-prosemirror-
Thu, February 13, 2025
Episode #471 - Tina Tempest (Chunky)
We have Tina Tempest on the show today. Tina, or Chunky, completed a SOBO thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2009. The trail had such an impact upon her life, that she and her husband, Brett, ultimately opened the Quarter Way Inn, a hostel near Marion, Virginia. Tina’s breakfast at the hostel is the stuff of legend! But it is one of her side businesses that we’re talking about today, as Tina is the owner of Bead By Bead Adventures, producing necklaces for many of the long distance trails, including two that I wear. There are plenty of ways to follow Tina, either online or in person. Check out these links: See Tina in person: AT Gateways at Amicalola Falls State Park in Georgia on February 28 - March 2, 2025. Appalachian Trail Days in Damascus, Virginia on May 16-18, 2025 Follow Tina online: Bead by Bead Adventures: Necklaces that are maps of long-distance hiking trails that hikers (or those at home) can use to track their progress. Her website is at www.gobeadbybead.com , on Instagram at Instagram (@gobeadbybead) , and on Facebook at Bead by Bead Adventures . Her hostel: Quarter Way Inn: Seasonal Appalachian Trail Hiker Hostel at mile 555-ish in Southwest Virginia. Her website, www.quarterwayinn.com , on Instagram at Instagram (@quarterwayinn) , and on Facebook at Quarter Way Inn Her Honey business is Gather Ye Honey: Pure honey and beeswax candles from C
Thu, February 06, 2025
Episode #470 - Nick Thatcher (Hotfoot)
Our main guest today is Nick Thatcher, who I found when he posted an epic Katahdin summit picture on Facebook. I hoped there would be more to his story than a December summit, so I reached out to him. He shared a story of determination and drive, culminating in that epic picture on the top of Katahdin. Nick made some intelligent choices for his hike that should inspire others in their own quest to fulfill an Appalachian Trail thru-hike. His calm demeanor will impress you. You can follow him on social media at Instagram (@realnickthatch) , as well as his blog for the Trek at Nick Thatcher, Author at The Trek . Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . Our new sponsor for the New Year is TSX Challenge, who turn one week into inspiration for a lifetime. And I should know. Chris at TSX told me he could get me to the top of Mt Whitney…and he did. Check out their incredible group hikes at TSX Challenge - Guided Backpacking Trips to Mt. Whitney, Grand Canyon & Beyond , and save 10% at checkout by using the code MIGHTYBLUE. I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="button" href= "https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/eda
Thu, January 30, 2025
Episode #469 - Dr Lydia Kuhn (Tetris)
Dr Lydia Kuhn joins us this week to talk about both her Appalachian Trail thru-hike in 2020, and her CDT thru-hike last year, proving herself to be a “true badass.” She reminds us of the need to live your life on your terms, and not to be constrained by how others might want you to live your life. Lydia also shares some information on wilderness medicine that we should all pay attention to. Check out the link below to learn more. Home We hear again from Chris Casado of TSX Challenge, who gives us an update on some of the adventures that you could be having this summer. Check out their incredible group hikes at TSX Challenge - Guided Backpacking Trips to Mt. Whitney, Grand Canyon & Beyond , and save 10% at checkout by using the code MIGHTYBLUE. Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="butt
Thu, January 23, 2025
Episode #468 - David Kibiloski (Texas)
David Kibiloski is our guest today. What starts as a story about his Appalachian Trail thru-hike, tracks his evolution into an AT hostel owner, then a 501(c)(3) with AT Kids, followed by Stumble Inn 2.0. It is a fascinating journey. You can follow David on his website, at The Stumble Inn and AT KIDS - A Perfect Partnership . We also started what I hope to be a bidding war for Smercomics, a political satire book that David owns (unopened), but he is willing to offer to the highest bidder from our audience. All funds will go directly to AT Kids. I’m starting the bidding at $100. I hope you’d like to join in. You can email me your bid to steve@hikingradionetwork.com , and we’ll run it for a couple of weeks before announcing the winner. You will get an email back from me if your bid is exceeded, just in case you'd like to up it again!! I also wanted to share a link to my friend, Rob Diamond’s YouTube page, as he is channelling George Eschleman from a few weeks back by taking dog tags with him on his AT hike this year. You can find it at Rob Diamond (DogTag_on_the_AT) Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . Our new sponsor for the New Year is TSX Challenge, who turn one week into inspiration for a lifetime. And I should know. Chris at TSX told me he could get me to the top of Mt Whitney…and he did. Check out their incredible group hikes at <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="button" href="https://tsxchallenge.com/" data-tes
Thu, January 16, 2025
Episode #467 - Al Marriott (Lookout) Triple Crowner
Today, we welcome back a friend of the show, a fellow Brit, Al Marriott. Al has already been on for his AT and PCT adventures, but last year he went and completed the CDT to complete his Triple Crown. He is always good value, with some wry observations about these trails and stories to share along the way. Here, you can check out his last day on the CDT. https://youtu.be/UbVsTHWtg5I Al has a thriving YouTube community with his channel, Adventure Together TV at Adventure Together , as well as a beautiful website, Adventure Together , where all his travels, along with some spectacular photos, are featured. You can also see more pictures on his Instagram, at Instagram (@advtgt) . Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . Our new sponsor for the New Year is TSX Challenge, who turn one week into inspiration for a lifetime. And I should know. Chris at TSX told me he could get me to the top of Mt Whitney…and he did. Check out their incredible group hikes at TSX Challenge - Guided Backpacking Trips to Mt. Whitney, Grand Canyon & Beyond , and save 10% at checkout by using the code MIGHTYBLUE. I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organizati
Thu, January 09, 2025
Episode #466 - Collyn Nielsen (Doc) Hiker Trash Radio
We have a fellow hiking podcaster on the show today. Collyn Nielsen, known as Doc to his listeners, is the host of Hiker Trash Radio. The show was originally the John Freakin' Muir Podcast, but Doc extended its remit by re-branding to reach a wider audience, speaking to climbers, kayakers and others who spend their time in the outdoors. You can find his podcast on all the platforms, as well as at his website, hikertrashradio.com. Doc even turned the tables on me by interviewing me in a section taken directly from his own show. Check it out. Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . Our new sponsor for the New Year is TSX Challenge, who turn one week into inspiration for a lifetime. And I should know. Chris at TSX told me he could get me to the top of Mt Whitney…and he did. Check out their incredible group hikes at TSX Challenge - Guided Backpacking Trips to Mt. Whitney, Grand Canyon & Beyond , and save 10% at checkout by using the code MIGHTYBLUE. I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at
Thu, January 02, 2025
Episode #465 - Wyly O'Brien (Calamity Jane)
Wyly O’Brien, or Calamity Jane, is our guest today. Wyly attempted her thru-hike in 2007, researched the trail and her gear to give herself the best chance ot completing the hike, and began with a self-confidence that was ultimately shattered when she quit the trail after more than 1600 miles. Wyly shares her story of what happened and what she learned along the way. More than a decade later, Wyly found her journal and decided to write about her “failure,” offering tips on what she could have done to imporve her chances. You can check out her new book on Amazon at Done, But Not Thru: Thru-Hiking the Appalachian Trail - A Cautionary Tale Our new sponsor for the New Year is TSX Challenge, who turn one week into inspiration for a lifetime. And I should know. Chris at TSX told me he could get me to the top of Mt Whitney…and he did! Check out their incredible group hikes at TSX Challenge - Guided Backpacking Trips to Mt. Whitney, Grand Canyon & Beyond , and save 10% at checkout by using the code MIGHTYBLUE. Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for m
Thu, December 26, 2024
Episode #464 - Beth Bakke Stenehjem and Dave Santi (Mighty Blue Class of 2025)
Today, we meet the two members of the Mighty Blue Class of 2025, with Beth Bakke Stenehjem and Dave Santi under the spotlight. Beth is my friend, having hiked twice with her, enjoying her sunny smile and encouraging manner. She’s heading out there at the end of March, with her stepson, Andrew. The two of them will make a terrific couple as they plough their way north. I’m looking forward to hearing their journey. Equally, Dave Santi is set up to succeed. Dave is from the West Coast, coming east to take on the AT and ready to pitch himself into the challenge. He has a dogged determination–which he’ll need, of course. You can follow Dave on the Trek at https://thetrek.co/author/davesanti/ , while he also has a separate Facebook page set up to share his hike. You can follow that at https://www.facebook.com/dave.hikes.the.appalachian.trail/ . Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on t
Thu, December 19, 2024
Episode #463 - Daniel Shaw (Team Whimsy)
Daniel Shaw, of Team Whimsy, give us his view of some of the Hurricane Helene clean up and recovery, meeting people where they are, on their worst day ever, when they need someone to show up and help. It is a fascinating model for a 501c3 that can have countrywide effect, with a sign up to help within your own community and beyond. I hope that listening to Daniel will inspire you to click on the volunteer page and add your name to his list. You can find his website here https://www.teamwhimsy.org/ with the sign up link, here. https://www.teamwhimsy.org/volunteer/ Daniel also offer his other great passion, a martial arts and fitness gym in Conway, Arkansas, where veterans, first responders, and supporters come to train and find community and support. Check that out here. https://graybeardforge.org/ Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to he
Thu, December 12, 2024
Episode #462 - Jessica and Largo Sueiro (Sunshine and Captain)
We’ve got a couple of free spirits on the show today, who happen to be mother and son. Jessica and Largo Sueiro, went on a big adventure this year; taking on the Appalachian Trail. As a family, they have lived unconventional lives, yet this half-year of mother and son bonding must have been precious to them both, combining their hiking, Largo’s school work, and his Dungeons & Dragons business along the way. Both are great conversationalists, so sit back and enjoy their story. If you’d like to see more of their journey, you can check out their YouTube channel at World Towning and see them on Instagram at Instagram (@worldtowning) . Or, if you like the idea of traveling with the family and being introduced by them to various international cultures, check out their travel website at Full-Time Travelers Leading You To Local Experiences . You can even see Largo’s D&D biz site at Home Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="button" href= "https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/" data-testi
Thu, December 05, 2024
Episode #461 - John Turner (Raven)
John Turner is an avid listener to our HRN podcasts and is a board member of the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club–and a trail ambassador. John completed a five-year section hike in 2022, and is here to share his story with us. We have a wide-ranging chat; not only about his hike, but his work with GATC, and his new book, Killing the Buddha on the Appalachian Trail. John’s story is of a man who came late to our wonderful trail, and a man giving back to the trail he fell in love with. That’s quite a calling. You can check out John’s book at Killing the Buddha on the Appalachian Trail while he can also be found on his website at The Blue Ridge Hiker and on Facebook at The Blue Ridge Hiker . If you’d like to learn more about The Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, check out their website at Home - Georgia Appalachian Trail Club Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="button" href= "https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/" data-testid="inline-card-res
Thu, November 28, 2024
Episode #460 - Dave Fleischman (J.I.F.)
This week, we welcome back Dave Fleischman, a trail maintainer and a newly minted Triple Crowner. Dave already had the PCT and the AT under his belt, after hikes back in the 90s. Suddenly, the opportunity arose to do the CDT, so he headed back out. On this Thanksgiving Day, it is worth being grateful for so many things, yet Dave personifies the selfless nature of trail maintainers, so let’s thank him for that. In our conversation, Dave refers to the Triple Crown ALDHA ceremony out west. Check it out at this link. Triple Crown | ALDHA-West Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners
Thu, November 21, 2024
Episode #459 - Katie Westling (Phoenix)
We’ve got a bit of a change of pace this week, with previous AT thru-hiker, Katie Westling, sharing her past year of adventures, with hikes in France, Ireland, and England. Katie started with the Tour du Mont Blanc last year, then headed over to Ireland for the Dingle Way this year, followed by Hadrian’s Wall Path soon after. Katie shares her hike with us, as well as a couple of links to organizations that helped her on her way. They are: Self-Guided Hiking & Biking Vacations | Macs Adventure and Tour du Mont Blanc - Self Guided . Doctor Lynne wanted to memorialize her late father on the show, as he was the person who inspired her outdoor adventures and loved hearing her with me on the podcast. He must have been so proud of her. If you’d like to speak about someone who influenced your outdoor adventures, drop me an email at steve@hikingradionetwork.com , and we’ll make it happen. Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="button" href= "https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-s
Thu, November 14, 2024
Episode #458 - Frank Mularcik (Snowman)
Frank Mularcik, who recently completed a 100-day SOBO thru-hike, is our guest today. Frank reached out to me a few weeks before he finished, then followed up once he reached Springer Mountain. You’ll be impressed by Frank’s can-do attitude, bringing a practicality to his hike that stood him in good stead. He discovered on the trail–as we all do–that faith in humanity that we may have thought was lost. Frank documented his hike by vlogging every night on trail, producing an impressive record that is available on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@frankmularcikbeyondinvesting After Frank, I have a few words to share about my recent trip to Hot Springs to help out after Helene, accompanied by listeners–now friends, Ellen Langford, Allan Anderson, Rob Diamond, and Stuart Phelps. To each of you, my heartfelt thanks for stepping up. Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike earlier this year on the South West Coast Path in the UK to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. <a href= "https://www.hikingrad
Thu, November 07, 2024
Episode #457 - George Eshleman (Keeper)
It’s a slightly shorter show than usual this week, but it is about as powerful as any of my interviews have ever been. Our guest is George Eshleman, or Keeper, who hiked the Appalachian Trail with 363 nametags of military personnel who have committed suicide. George chose to do this in honor of his own friend and hiking partner, who had committed suicide. However, George had a secret of his own that he shared with nobody as he hit the trail. What happened next was sufficiently impactful to have been turned into a feature film, released on November 8 and available on Prime Video. Check out the trailer to get a taste of what took place. THE KEEPER OFFICIAL TRAILER Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I
Thu, October 31, 2024
Episode #456 - Hunter and John Rud (Hunter & JR)
Another former guest returns to the show today, this time with his hiking partner, and Dad. Hunter and John Rud completed the CDT this year. For Hunter, it was the second leg of his own Triple Crown, but for John, it was his completed Triple Crown. They share their awesome experience. There is a lot of wisdom, both in hiking and in life, from these two, as they reminisce on what must have been an epic journey for this father and son to share. You can see more of their adventures on Instagram at Instagram (@hunterrud3) . Then I want you all to meet Jessica Bowser, a fellow podcaster who is the host of the Virginia Outdoor Adventures podcast. Hers is a wide-ranging show that covers all aspects of the outdoors available in Virginia. Check it out at Virginia Outdoor Adventures You can also check the episodes she mentioned in our conversation at 22. Hiking McAfee Knob and Virginia’s Triple Crown with Diana Christopulos, Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club ‣ Virginia Outdoor Adventures and Appalachia’s Greatest Conservation Story: Elk Restoration in SWVA Our book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recen
Thu, October 24, 2024
Episode #455 - Don Robinson - 900 Miler Award
We’re going to talk about the Great Smoky Mountains today, with Don Robinson sharing his love of the park, and his recent induction into the 900 Miler Club, having hiked all the trails in the Smokies. It’s a pretty exclusive club, with fewer than a thousand members, yet the logistics required to get this done would fry my brain! Don has provided me with links to the two books he suggests, should you wish to follow in his footsteps. Day Hiker's Guide to All the Trails in The Smoky Mountains and Hiking Trails of the Smokies . You can learn more about the Smokies and the club, by visiting their website at Smoky Mountains Hiking Club - 900 Miler Club After Don, we had a second visit from the lovely Sally Brooks, who has produced the book about her own thru-hike two decades ago. Sally is a stand-up comedian, laughs easily, and is sure to have included her humor in the book. It is called “Going to Maine.” You can find it on her website at www.sallychaffinbrooks.com , or on Amazon at Going to Maine: All the Ways to Fall on the Appalachian Trail . Here she is with her friend Erin, on Katahdin 20 years ago, and this year. Our new book reading, Happy Hiki
Thu, October 17, 2024
Episode #454 - Rob & Gavin Duncan (Waffle and Hawkeye)
We have a couple of returning guests today. Rob and Gavin Duncan attempted a thru-hike in 2019 and were forced off the trail due to injury. It was a bitter blow for a couple of guys who’d put in over 1300 miles. Gavin is now an 18-year-old, and both father and son wanted a do-over, starting again from Georgia. I’ve observed several father-son relationships on trail and would have loved to have had one of those myself, for the emotion of getting to Katahdin with your son (or your daughter, wife, or husband) must be exponentially enhanced as the two of you walk those last few hundred yards together. You can see more of Rob and Gavin’s hike on their YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@WaffleHikes Of course, our hearts and minds are still in the southern Appalachians, with recovery just starting and so much still to accomplish. We speak this week with Miss Janet, who lives in Erwin, but who lives perpetually on or near the trail in her role as our Trail Mother. Also, Jester provides us with updates on what she knows, with both women wisely guarding against rushing in and being more targeted in our offers of help. I intend to drive to Tennessee on November 3, starting to work on November 4, and remaining until the Friday. I’d love for any of you who can spare the time, to email me at steve@hikingradionetwork.com , with any skills you may be able to bring, or simply a desire to help, and we’ll work as a team once we get there, under the auspices of ALDHA Care. Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at <a href= "https://www
Thu, October 03, 2024
Episode #453 - Paula Martin (Windeagle)
We have a very different show this week, with Paula Martin, or Windeagle, sharing her dramatic survival from a bad accident that may well have killed her. Several years later, Paula had recovered and decided that an Appalachian Trail thru-hike was something she could achieve. She ultimately summited Katahdin two years later, but her story is one of grit and resilience. She also shares a story about how a bear got a little bit close and personal with her tent. See the picture below. After Paula, our show is all about Hurricane Helene, and the devastation it wrought on our beloved trail community. We have representatives from the Appalachian Trail Community (ATC), the Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association (ALDHA), as well as reflections from Lady Di in Damascus, and my friend Jester, whose podcast recently gave us ways to help. I urge you all to check out these ways of providing support, while comstantly checking the ATC and ALDHA websites on volunteers opportunities that will eventually arise. The links are Mountain Harbour B&B & Hiker Hostel HOME SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA 2022 DISASTER RELIEF | United Way of Southwest Virginia Donate - Feed the Hunger <a class="css-1rn59kg" title= "https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.operation-airdrop.com%2Fhurricane-helene%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2F7AGWLwI6Iz65QkFZsw4rCd1f5JSWaxdFH6JsWKuXarZESwX5GwJpkwI_aem_W4RrOLBeQb2eGWdp0ylFdQ&h=AT0kdbOPVQ7n3sFwjrEYwg8XOgoglyAXhddoz0Bv0vxb3YhMi7eK4mY3OyN1Yx7pE8MPcHXIMtmJtlGsbWwl9yTbHspZOpRMHyT7c18KjTGzu7AIIdMQ0l8GASp-bpq8pYw8HbnmYNs87aHdVSFAAJc&__tn__=-UK-R&c%5B0%5D=AT1i_v1r0Jc8VWQFR4-8RzHTy55tC-wC98FJ8P3L9KQmhvlcLpBZLvi37-wGiEMatfJtV-uy3uo190xHR5-aCA4r2cf3JjHuJ-8YIyRe1csHnGXE1_p1m5U5VjP6q6CTTNNFarPbgWdTC6Vjmf4VV8xv-rjGCtgVoHVtE29JnvOLF8KeAY5QG8qsB-udiDKrpz1-045SJhNwks_uI2KsZSECSgkM" href= "https://l
Thu, September 26, 2024
Episode #452 - John Pearson (Magellan)
We have another recent Appalachian Trail successful thru-hiker as our guest today. For many, the AT is a years-long dream, but for John Pearson, or Magellan, he had no idea he’d be hiking the trail until Christmas last year. Through a bit of trial and error, allied to a fierce determination, John made it to Katahdin in less than five and a half months. You can see more of John’s hike on Facebook, at https://www.facebook.com/AJohnPearson/ . In our Mighty Blue Class of 2025, Michael Gaasch has decided that his thru-hike this year needs to be deferred to next year, so that Michael and his hiking buddy, Chopstix, can finish up New Hampshire and Maine together. Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike, earlier this year, in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to inter
Thu, September 19, 2024
Episode #451 - Kim Shoop (Gator)
We have a really accomplished young woman on the podcast today, with Kim Shoop, or Gator, sharing her story about section hiking the entire Triple Crown in just eight years. She has a very self-deprecating way about her, yet she is clearly a determined person to be able to achieve multiple long hikes, having to start again and again to fulfill her dream. Fully in love with backpacking, Kim also decided that the Palmetto Trail needed a bit more information than was publicly available, so she put together a website of her own to help out. You can find it at http://Blazzardk.wixsite.com/palmettotrail . Kim is also active on YouTube, with her channel, I Hike Marathons . Another completion for a Mighty Blue Class of 24 member, with David Vose checking in on his way down from the summit of Katahdin. His picture below says it all. Then, Sondra Lee, or Lemonade continues southward, leaving Virginia and chatting with me from Uncle Johnny’s in Erwin, TN. Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="button" href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs" data-testid="inline-card-res
Thu, September 12, 2024
Episode #450 - Larry Ripari (Bird)
Larry Ripari, fresh from his recent completion of not only an Appalachian Trail thru-hike, but also the hiking Triple Crown, shares his story with us this week. Larry became Bird on trail, a persona he was happy to assume, yet one he is now leaving behind. He is full of insights on all three trails, sharing his knowledge and even his budget as he successfully negotiated them all. You can check out Larry on social media on Instagram at Instagram (@ohreallylar) and on YouTube at Hiker Larry Our Class of 2024 is moving towards the end for some of our team. Hear the joy in Sloggy’s voice as he describes his Katahdin summit with his family, while No Rush, the Elder, has some news to break to us. Also on today, Dianne Seger, better known to many of us as Lady Di, is selling her awesome hostel in Damascus. I invited her on to tell us about the place. If you’d like to check it out, you can do so on Zillow, at 217 Damascus Dr, Damascus, VA 24236 | MLS #96062 | Zillow . You can also check out Lady Di’s website at Bed & Breakfast | Lady Di’s Bed & Breakfast | United States Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="button" href= "https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2
Thu, September 05, 2024
Episode #449 - Mighty Blue Class of 2024
We’re catching up with all five members of our Mighty Blue Class of 2014 this week, so each of them will update us on where they are and their coming plans. There are no real notes this week for the class, just their latest pictures of them all having a blast!! Anita (Moxie) Bobby (Sloggy) David (Professor Milkshake) Sondra (Lemonade) Michael (No Rush the Elder) Also today, we meet Bill and Donna Milsten, owners of The Green Dragon Hostel in Hiawasee. You can reach out to them on their website at https://www.greendragonhostel.com/ or call 407-435-0294. I also shared a bit about my recent return to the Appalachian Trail with two friends. Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting <a href= "https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/" data-inline-card="" data-
Thu, August 29, 2024
Episode #448 - Sarah Zettler (Cricket)
Sarah Zettler is our guest today. Sarah is a teacher, and has had to fit her six-year section hike of the Appalachian Trail into her summer vacation as a teacher. She even incorporates the trail into her school lesson plans to further engage her students. She felt called to do this hike and, once it was in her heart, she worked out a plan to get it done. A dramatic fall on one of the river crossings in the north led to a rescue by the Emergency Rescue team from Androscoggin. These selfless people reassured and cared for Sarah and deserve our praise anytime we get the chance. Nice one, team. Our Mighty Blue Class of 2024 is represented today by Sloggy, Lemonade, and Professor Milkshake, each with their own adventures happening and about to happen. Such is the nature of the AT. Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer . There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I
Thu, August 22, 2024
Episode #447 - Georgetta Frederick (Trail Mama)
Georgetta Frederick finished her Appalachian Trail thru-hike just a few weeks ago, at the beginning of August. You can hear that she still has the joy of the trail in her voice as she shares her journey with us all. You can follow Georgetta on social media, on Facebook at Trail Mama Hikes | Johnstown PA , and on YouTube at Trail Mama Hikes . We also talk about her guided tours in the Laurel Highlands, in PA. If you’d be interested in joining one of those tours, check out her website for more information at Book Online | Laurel Highlands Hiking Tours | Trail Mama Hikes – trailmamahikes.com Our Mighty Blue Class of 2024 is still pushing forward, with Anita Gschwendtner and Michael Gaasch checking in with us today. Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer . There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from
Thu, August 15, 2024
Episode #446 - Dr Daniel Warren on Lyme Disease
Dr Daniel Warren is our guest this week, with a subject very close to the heart of a hiker; Lyme Disease. I try my best to pick his brain and learn a little bit more about this pernicious disease, which is on the rise throughout the country. He sent me several papers to inform my questions, so I believe that you’ll gain a lot from our conversation. If you have any questions about this conversation, email me at steve@hikingradionetwork.com and I’ll forward your question to Daniel. If you’d like to learn more about the work taking place at Envita Medical Centers, check out their website here. Envita Medical Centers Two of our Class of 24 members are back with us today, heading in opposite directions. Sondra Lee, or Lemonade is headed south, having modified her thru-hike attempt, though still with her eye very much on the prize. Meanwhile, Bobby Campbell, or Sloggy, continues to learn about himself, calling us from the top of Mt Washington. Between those two, Bruce Matson, or RTK, pops in to share some news of his own. Check out The Wood's Hole Weekend to find out more. If you have any questions about the weekend, reach out directly to Bruce at rtkchallenge@gmail.com . I used my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer . There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesom
Thu, August 08, 2024
Episode #445 - Nick Kindred (Sgt Pepper)
We have a NASA guy on the show today. Nick Kindred worked on the Artemis Program, and when he was able to retire, he set his sights on completing his Appalachian Trail adventure of a number of years by finishing the rest of it in a 1200 mile LASH from Harpers Ferry to Katahdin. Nick’s thoughtful observations, and his conversations with his wife about the extended separation on trail, should give pause to those who haven’t considered the impact of lengthy separations on their own adventures. He hasn’t shared any social media links, but he sent me this link about the Artemis program that is of interest. Artemis Our Class of 2024 members who we catch up with this week are No Rush the Elder, and Professor Milkshake. No Rush is trying out the delis of New York as we speak, while the Prof is just a day or so from the VT / NH border. Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer . There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could d
Thu, August 01, 2024
Episode #444 - Heidi Nisbett (Sketch)
Today, we’re looking at the Allegheny Trail, with Heidi Nisbett talking about her contribution to the trail’s 50th anniversary. Heidi is an accomplished artist who captures the trail in all its glory, sharing her hiking (and drawing) journey with us. I saw several of Heidi’s drawings some months ago, and was struck by how evocative they were. When she wrote to me about the project she was doing with the Allegheny Trail, it seemed the perfect time to have her on the show. If you want to find out more about the trail itself, go to https://www.hikethealleghenytrail.org/ You can check out Heidi’s website at http://sketchingsummits.com/ and her blog on the Trek at https://thetrek.co/author/heidi-nisbett/ Following Heidi, Julie “Jester” Gayheart and Austin Wallis talk about their work for the Allegheny Trail, with the release of the trailer for their documentary, The Allegheny Trail. You can check that out at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpggXI74Qec , while their other work is at https://www.youtube.com/@JesterWallisProductions Our Mighty Blue Class of 24 conversations today feature Bobby “Sloggy” Campbell, and Sondra “Lemonade” Lee. Bobby speaks with me from the top of Bromley Mountain, while Sondra and her husband have had to rethink their hike for this year. Yet all is not lost…. Check out Sondra’s blog at https://sondrawinter.wixsite.com/in-the-lee/blog Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting <a href= "https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/" data-inline-card="" data-card
Thu, July 25, 2024
Episode #443 - Glenn Van Peski (G Squared)
Our guest today is Glen Van Peski, a man who made a significant contribution to the ultralight backpacking movement when he founded Gossamer Gear. It takes an engineer to work out the problems of heavy gear, and Glen’s engineering skills and natural curiosity made backpacking easier for all of us. He’s written a book about the many life lessons he has learned from a life outdoors, mixing moments from his life in with these lessons, making the book extremely accessible for hikers of all ages. You can get a copy of Glen’s book from his website at Home - Glen Van Peski , while you can follow him on Instagram at Instagram (@gvanpeski) , and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenvanpeski/ . We catch up with two more members of the Mighty Blue Class of 2024 today. First up, Moxie gives a shout out to her own trail angel, while Professor Milkshake celebrates trail magic–and trail towns–in the north. What a trail we’ve been gifted. Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role="button" href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs" data-testid="inline-card-resolved-v
Thu, July 18, 2024
Episode #442 - Linda McAbee (Castaway)
We have another packed show today, with an interview that is quite unlike any I have ever done before. Linda McAbee wrote to me and told me her own harrowing story that, fortunately, worked out in the end, though it could have taken a far worse turn. Despite that outcome, her story is a salutary lesson in the dangers of being in the woods with no means of navigation. I’m sure she’ll be fully prepped on her upcoming hike on the Buckeye Trail. At the same time, Linda’s ordeal proved her perseverance and determination, both qualities required for a successful hike. We also caught up with three members of the Mighty Blue Class of 2024, with new member, Sondra Lee (Lemonade) introducing herself, along with catch ups with Bobby Campbell (Sloggy Hikes), and Michael Gaasch (No Rush the Elder). I’ll be playing a notice inviting people to the ALDHA Gathering this coming October in Abingdon, VA. If you’d like to register at the discounted price before August 15, go to Events Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes thi
Thu, July 11, 2024
Episode #441 - Florence Bradley (Fireflo)
We have a retired firefighter on the show today. Florence Bradley had been wanting to hike the Appalachian Trail for some time, waiting until retirement to get to it. But it drew on all her resources as she got injured several times, even breaking a foot along the way. She returned earlier this year, in an attempt to finish her last 300 miles in time to be able to record a 12-month AT hike. You can see more of Florence on Facebook at Florence Bradley and on Instagram at Instagram (@ffireflo) . We meet three new members of our Mighty Blue Class of 2024 this week; Michael Gaasch, Anita Gschwendtner, and David Vose, aka No Rush the Elder, Moxie, and Professor Milkshake. Each of them has shared links and a picture. Michael: Michael Gaasch Anita: Anita G on Snapchat David: isn’t into social media, but he shared this YouTube channel that he’s featured in. Ben on the Trail . He’s also happy to be emailed if you have any questions. He’s at dave.vose@gmail.com Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting <a class="css-118vsk3" tabindex="0" role= "button" href= "https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowe
Thu, July 04, 2024
Episode #440 - Martin Pazzani
Today, we welcome Martin Pazzani to the podcast. Martin is a true outdoorsman, having hiked and climbed in all seven continents. He’s parlayed that experience with his involvement in the fitness business, and an intellectual curiosity about the scientific benefits of simply getting outside and walking uphill. Those of us who have hiked extensively can identify with Martin’s conclusions, yet he presents it in such an accessible way that I’m sure you’ll enjoy being informed and entertained in equal measure. You can check out Martin’s book on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/SECRETS-AGING-WELL-Healthier-Recharge-ebook/dp/B08B8YC99R/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=ARGkQ&content-id=amzn1.sym.f911c8db-3a2b-4b3e-952f-b80fdcee83f4&pf_rd_p=f911c8db-3a2b-4b3e-952f-b80fdcee83f4&pf_rd_r=141-1163969-3030724&pd_rd_wg=wCInZ&pd_rd_r=0b03db07-3fad-427e-b1b4-d1a01b7fa727&ref_=aufs_ap_sc_dsk , and on his website at https://www.getoutside.online/ . Then, we meet Bobby Campbell once more in our Mighty Blue Class of 2024. Bobby has cruised past 1,200 miles, which means he was confronted by the choice of whether or not to partake in the Half Gallon Challenge; a decision that faces us all on an AT thru-hike!! Our new book reading, Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to my reading of it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at Happy Hiking: Falling in love on the Appalachian Trail , or on Emily’s website, at Happy Hiking . I used my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . And, maybe, you’ll get a personal picture of me thanking you with your name etched in the sand during my hike. I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire seri
Thu, June 27, 2024
Episode #439 - Casey Huffman (Vegas)
I’m back from the UK and am eager to bring more great guests for you. First, though, I want to thank all of you who reached out to me while I was away. Your concern for my welfare was more than touching. I’m forever grateful to my listeners. Today, our main guest is Casey Huffman, AKA Vegas. Casey hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2023, and he shares his story with an infectious enthusiasm which, he’ll concede, may not have been there when he set out on his adventure. A solo hiker, and somewhat introverted, he even became the Prom King of the Class of 2023! Casey has a Youtube channel, though he tells me that it isn’t all about hiking, so pick your way through it. https://youtube.com/@vegasthepiedpiper?si=izi8BQ2K8TY7nUdv Also today, our Mighty Blue Class of 2024 starts catching up with hikers already into the second half of their hike. Today, it’s Bobby Campbell, or Sloggy, who shares the first half of his own thru-hike with us. We need a few more members of the Mighty Blue Class of 2024, so reach out to me at steve@hikingradionetwork.com if you have a candidate for me to track down. Finally today, I’m starting a new book! Happy Hiking, by my friend, Emily Leonard is–of course–written from a woman’s POV and a woman’s voice. I hope you enjoy listening to it. If you’d like to buy the book, you can find it on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Happy-Hiking-Falling-Appalachian-Trail/dp/1736156802 , or on Emily’s website, at https://www.emilysescapades.com/product-page/happy-hiking I used my recent hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all
Thu, May 02, 2024
Episode #426 - South West Coast Path (Days 15-17)
I’m into my third week on the trail and still spending most nights indoors. The first two weeks were always going to be that way, with John, then Richard and Wendy as part of my hike, yet the weather has intervened in this third week. Hopefully, the weather is about to turn and I’ll be able to camp outside a bit more. I’m using my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . And, maybe, you’ll get a personal picture of me thanking you with your name etched in the sand during my hike. I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at <a title="smartCard-inline" href= "https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/" target="_bla
Mon, April 29, 2024
Episode #425 - South West Coast Path (Days 11-14)
I’m using my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . And, maybe, you’ll get a personal picture of me thanking you with your name etched in the sand during my hike. I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751 . Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at <a title="
Thu, April 25, 2024
Episode #424 - South West Coast Path (Days 8-10)
The last three days have tested me yet again, though I’m pretty much on schedule. A schoolboy error on my part led to a very low energy day, though meeting dear friends at the end of the day more than made up for it. I’m using my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . And, maybe, you’ll get a personal picture of me thanking you with your name etched in the sand during my hike. I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now supp
Mon, April 22, 2024
Episode #423 - South West Coast Path (Days 4-7)
The first week has been unexpected, exciting, and even a little scary. I’m now 80 miles into the hike and just starting to feel that I’m finding my way. John has returned home, as originally planned, and the tenor of the hike has shifted as I’m on my own. I’ve been overwhelmed by the beauty of this hike, I’ve been surprised by the difficulty, and I start week two excited by the prospect of the time I’ll be spending with dear friends later in the week. I’m using my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting [https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/](https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ "smartCard-inline"). And, maybe, you’ll get a personal picture of me thanking you with your name etched in the sand during my hike. I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs "smartCard-inline") There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. [https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/](https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ "smartCard-inline") If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at [https://www.hikingradionetwork.com](https://www.hikingradionetwork.com "smartCard-inline") . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch
Thu, April 18, 2024
Episode #422 - South West Coast Path (Days 1-3)
The first three days of my South West Coast Path hike are in the books. Unfortunately, my notes weren’t in the books! I somehow lost them, so this first podcast is a little thin on detail, though full of my heart. I hope you enjoy it. I’m using my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . And, maybe, you’ll get a personal picture of me thanking you with your name etched in the sand during my hike. I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751 . Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at <a title="smartCard-inline" href= "https://hr
Thu, April 11, 2024
Episode #421 - Briana DeSanctis
Today’s guest has recently completed a truly epic journey. Briana DeSanctis set out to hike the American Discovery Trail in January 2022. 6,800 miles later, having taken in all the seasons–twice–Briana finished her personal odyssey in February this year, becoming the first solo woman to do so. Having thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail almost a decade ago, Briana considered that it wasn’t enough for her, so she set her sights on this epic hike and worked to accumulate the funds she needed. On the way, she discovered that no woman had completed this hike, so the impetus to become the first woman doubly motivated her. She worked as a journalist throughout the hike, and you can see her column here. https://dailybulldog.com/author/briana-desanctis/ . You can find out more about Briana through her social media links on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/rockygoeshiking and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/brianadesanctis/ , while her website, http://www.brianadesanctis.com/ , will give you even more about her. After Briana, I share a short journal entry from a fun group hike of the Virginia Triple Crown, which I used as a shakedown for my upcoming hike in the UK. It was also a chance to catch up with fellow team members of Team 6 from my TSX Challenge hike in 2022. A couple of other friends joined us, and we had a blast. I’m using my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . And, maybe, you’ll get a personal picture of me thanking you with your name etched in the sand during my hike. I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often as
Thu, April 04, 2024
Episode #420 - Clay Bonnyman Evans (Pony on the Cape Wrath Trail)
We have an old friend on the show today. Clay Bonnyman Evans completed his AT thru-hike back in 2015, yet his latest hike is the intriguing Cape Wrath Trail. Clay shares his experience in his own inimitable style, even adding an unscheduled walk after the hike from Edinburgh to Glasgow. Because, well, why not? Clay is a contributor to the Trek, and you can follow his blog here https://thetrek.co/the-cape-wrath-trail-the-wild-wonderful-230-mile-at-of-the-uk/ He has added further links to illustrate some of the topics he brings up in our conversation to further aid you should you wish to follow this epic route. https://tinyurl.com/5873eesn https://www.hostellingscotland.org.uk/ https://www.mountainbothies.org.uk/ Also on the show today, the Dude, Brandon Jacob, shares news of what he hopes to become an annual “Dudefest” at Trent’s Grocery on June 1. If you’d like to attend or help out with the event, text the Dude on 713-443-8311. You can also email him at brandon@contractorscfo.com (don’t forget the “s”), though text is his preferred means of communication. I’m using my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting Hike with Steve - Empowering Parents, One Step at a Time | Parenting Matters % . And, maybe, you’ll get a personal picture of me thanking you with your name etched in the sand during my hike. I hope you want to support this critical mission. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like t
Thu, March 28, 2024
Episode #419 - Sarah Denison Williams
A few weeks ago, I met today’s guest, Sarah Denison Williams, at the Appalachian Trail Club of Florida, and was so impressed by her presentation that I invited her on to the show. But it turned out that Sarah had so much more to share than the confines of her presentation that we expanded our recording to cover it all. Sarah shares the work done by the Conservation Foundation here in South West Florida, but also speaks to the local and national implications of that work and other trusts around the country. Additionally, she tells us the seven wilderness survival priorities that she presented to us at the Florida ATC, and we’ll all get a good refresher on that. You can find out more about the subjects that Sarah brings to the show by these various links. https://landtrustalliance.org/land-trusts https://soloschools.com/ https://www.byronkernssurvival.com/ https://www.thefolcfarm.com/remote-medical https://www.conservationfoundation.com/get-involved/celebrating-20-years/ https://www.conservationfoundation.com/join-us/donate/ In our occasional series on other hikes, Lisa Rana brings us the three or four day Tri State Hike, a 25-mile loop taking in parts of Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York. You can check out her daily progress on the hike via her vlog: Day 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9df-AEVMNw Day 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVWTgYtmelU Day 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8q1q4lIDqJY I hope we’re able to introduce other, shorter trails to offer something for everybody in the future. I’m using my hike in the UK on the South West Coast Path to help raise money for my absolute favorite charity, Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been privileged to serve for over a decade. You can learn more about the hike and the organization–and donate–by visiting https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/
Thu, March 21, 2024
Episode #418 - George Steffanos
We have an old friend back on the show today, though it’s the first time I’ve met him! He is George Steffanos, writer of the hugely entertaining blog, now book, Then the Hail Came . I read the book over about 18 months and was constantly gripped by both his recall and his descriptions of the trail. Also, it was 40 years ago that George headed out on the AT, and he shares plans for a future hike in 2025. You can buy the book at Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 , while you can learn more about George at https://www.georgesteffanos.com/ . He’s also fairly lively on social media. You can follow him on Twitter (X) at https://twitter.com/GSteffanos , on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084450877622 , and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ges8853/ , all sites where you can gaze at some of his fabulous trail pictures. We start the Hike With Steve Challenge this week, by catching up with Katie Becker, Chief Executive for Parenting Matters, on whose board I’ve been proud to serve for over a decade. You’ll learn about the work that Parenting Matters does, as well as the exciting partnership with The Flanzer Trust that will double your support. Check it out at https://parentingmattersfl.org/eventer/hike-with-steve-empowering-parents-one-step-at-a-time/edate/2024-04-15/ . Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. <a href= "https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intak
Thu, March 14, 2024
Episode #417 - Bern Leibensperger (Yardsale)
Bern Leibensperger discovered the Appalachian Trail when her daughter expressed an interest in section hiking the trail several years ago. Since then, the two of them have racked up over 1,000 miles and, in an attempt to integrate further into our community, Bern and her husband Glen opened a hostel for hikers in PA. We discuss what it is that hikers need and Bern shares her own insights from her hiking. She’s also a fierce proponent of the Hike for Mental Health organization, helping out whenever she can with that awesome mission. https://www.hikeformentalhealth.org/ You can find Bern and the Lookout Hostel on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=100083102450360&name=xhp_nt__fb__action__open_user , and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thelookouthostel?igsh=dGRoaHBhaWJvdWE2&utm_source=qr . My friend, Nate Stockton, introduces me to the Collegiate Loop, which is very remote and looks awesome. Check out the map–and Nate–below. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. <a href= "https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-
Thu, March 07, 2024
Episode #416 - Audrey Payne (Glowstick)
We have another successful AT thru-hiker on the show today. Yet Audrey Payne seemed very unlikely to get the chance to hike the trail a few years earlier. How she recovered, and ultimately succeeded, is a story that she tells here in a conversation with Steve. Now, six years later, Audrey has continued to hike and has just released her book about her hike in 2018. You can find it on Amazon here. https://www.amazon.com/Where-Rhododendrons-Bloom-Thru-Hiking-Appalachian/dp/B0CT5XD95X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1JSIKUO1U4LE0&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VGwbKyOpSbCGAC_0wTgWr6WXHIWx6IKdEtKT2rkmSPKPMDLHERF9SNzSnKPyz2MpvNtzp9SIB98HId0sVpQJ-1EDABJs_YZ34xdGpVQuXd3rjRJif-zS4iflhEc0AvJHKNsuDpQHyofG4JzS6jOuoDJn-QcP76fn6Fd-ctg0n1uIPlGqv2fX0KaLu1fGiGxNT-rm0XlDqxMGA6fdHK3jlLpv-zn3YMZ3NDUGprXp-sI.1zyW5d1eKZdpJ9VVRg2xMNiI8W8K6jNdUDKXRdItLG0&dib_tag=se&keywords=audrey+payne&qid=1709759111&sprefix=audrey+payne%2Caps%2C138&sr=8-1 She also has an excellent website with great pictures of the AT and her other hikes. http://audrey-adventures.com/ . Additionally, you can find her on social media at http://instagram.com/Audipayne , and on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@AudreyAdventures?si=aZkWlCGjPob5KWCQ . Also today, Bob Campbell, or Sloggy, shares his very recent trek to the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania. He mentions–and highly recommends–the company he used to make the trip happen. So, if you fancy checking Kilimanjaro out, you should visit Peak Planet at https://peakplanet.com/ . Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awe
Thu, February 29, 2024
Episode #415 - Al Marriott (Lookout)
We have two returning guests today. First up, Al Marriott, fresh from his AT thru-hike in 2022, followed up with the PCT last year. Al shares his varied life of adventure in a great conversation with Steve. He also tells us a story of how serendipitous the trail can be, with a chance meeting with people he shared an AT shelter with the previous year. Al’s YouTube channel–Adventure Together–continues to show his adventures. You can catch it here. https://www.youtube.com/c/AdventureTogether1?sub_confirmation=1 , while he has a bunch of great pictures on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/adventuretogether.ig/ and a wealth of stories on his blog at the Trek https://thetrek.co/author/al-marriott/ . Natisha Webb is our second returning guest, with her Christmas escape coming on the Foothills Trail. You can learn more about the trail at https://foothillstrail.org/ Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. <a href= "https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/" data-inlin
Thu, February 22, 2024
Episode #414 - Jessie Gehner (Twisted Sister)
Jessie Gehner, MD, is a thru-hiker from 2008 who then went to medical school. She currently works as an ER physician at Roanoke hospital, and is a member of the faculty of the Wilderness Medical Society, spearheading the Wilderness Medicine Fellowship at her hospital. She has continued her hiking life and, in her work capacity, also hikes to Everest Base Camp each year with a group of medical professionals. Jessie has provided links for both the base camp group, https://www.blueridgeadventuremed.com/everest-trek.html and the Wilderness Medical Society. https://wms.org/WMS/WMS/Attend/Adventure-CME/Backpacking-Medicine/Master.aspx?EventKey=23BACK&hkey=784185ed-d042-416a-8eb6-b827030ebed2 She can also be found on Facebook at https://m.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=1445550661 We also finished our Mighty Blue Class of 2023 debriefs with Jessica Lang-Wright who, as you can see, has done a bit with her hair! Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer . There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below
Thu, February 15, 2024
Episode #413 - Daniel Clark (Lucky Colleague)
We meet another Brit on the show today. Daniel Clark is a listener to the podcast, and he filled in the form to register as a guest on our website, adding rich detail about his 2023 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. We explore some of his stories. Daniel has a terrific website that chronicles some of his other hikes. You can find it at All Walks | Ourwalks He is also on social media at Instagram and YouTube at Instagram (@walking__north) and Englishman Just Walking In our casual series of other hikes, my friend Andrew Cohen shares his recent experience on the TGO Challenge in Scotland. You can catch his YouTube at The Wandering Drew , where there is a playlist with 23 videos related to his equipment, some planning, as well as each day of the journey, and his travel to and from the UK. Check them out, as well as the TGO Challenge site itself, at A unique Scottish backpacking adventure , where you’ll find a ton of info about the challenge. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer . There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. Come on the show! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off
Thu, February 08, 2024
Episode #412 - Roxanne Lashley (Foxy)
Roxanne Lashley took on the AT last year and took her time. She had planned to go straight north to south, yet reaching Harpers Ferry past the Independence Day holiday, she knew she needed to flip north, then head back south. Roxanne finished back at Harpers Ferry and shares her story with us. In our conversation, Roxanne mentioned a couple of MeetUps, so, if you’re a lone who’d like to hike with others, check out these MeetUps Blue Hills Hiking & Biking Club | Meetup Outdoor Afro Boston | Meetup https://www.meetup.com/hike-blue-hills/ Remember, there are MeetUps all over the country, so check out others in your area. Also today, Amanda Aguillard shares her story of hiking the Hadrian’s Wall Path in Scotland last year. You can read more about the Path at Hadrian's Wall Path: British Walking Guide: Two-way: Bowness-Newcastle-Bowness - 64 Large-Scale Walking Maps (1:20,000) & Guides to 30 Towns & ... Stay, Places to Eat (British Walking Guides) Also, she has shared links for the places she stayed at. inicio The Hollies Bed & Breakfast, Gilsland, Cumbria, Northumberland Home - Walwick Hall Keelman's Lodge - Accommodation Newburn-upon-tyne Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer . There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the week
Thu, February 01, 2024
Episode #411 - Molly Beth Gaynier (Breaky)
Our two guests today have something in common; they’ve both thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail, yet their stories have taken entirely different turns. Our main guest is Molly Gaynier, who thru-hiked the trail in 2022, relishing the experience, even dragging it out with her extended breaks to take in the whole thing. But it was after the trail that she went through something none of us would wish on our worst enemy. The grace and grit that she reveals in our conversation should alert you to the importance of not procrastinating, as well as her determination to get back on trail. You can follow Molly on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mollybeth36/ . In our second conversation today, Dave Braunlich, or Seventy, talks to us about his Ouachita Trail experience, a 200-mile hike in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Here’s his video on the trip. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V2IeRhfuhC8&t=582s . He also had a blog he used for planning if you'd like to get into more detail. https://www.treelinereview.com/where-to-go/ouachita-trail Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. <a href= "https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/i
Thu, January 25, 2024
Episode #410 - D. J. Mullet (Dos Entradas)
DJ Mullet, or Dos Entradas, had been a hiker for several years, with the Appalachian Trail firmly in his sights. Yet a Type One Diabetes diagnosis seemed to have put paid to that dream. However, undaunted, DJ worked out not only how to manage the illness in his day-to-day life, he was able to manage it successfully on the AT in 2023. He shares his story eagerly, so that others will be inspired to do what it takes to get out into the woods to fulfill their own dreams. You can follow DJ on YouTube at Journey To The TRAIL- Ep.06 Diabetes Gear For Thru-hiking and on Facebook at two sites. Darrin Mullet and MADE TO MOVE: The A.T. in '23 | Facebook We welcome Jester and her buddy and partner, Austin to the show today as they celebrate the release of their documentary, Safe & Found, which features the selfless and heroic work performed by the Haywood County Search and Rescue Team. The film is well worth your time and can be found on YouTube at SAFE AND FOUND Documentary . If you’d like to find out more about the film, or speak with Jester or Austin, you can email them at info@jesterwallisproductions.com . There are some terrific shots of the team in action, as well as some jaw-dropping drawings by Heidi Nisbett of Sketching Summits. Check it out. Don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at Woods Hole Weekend - Trailer . There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. <a class= "css-10vvz0j" t
Thu, January 18, 2024
Episode #409 - Alyssa Whoaa (Rainbow Brite)
The uniquely named Alyssa Whoaa is our main guest today. She came to me as a member of the TSX team and she is widely experienced in a variety of different adventures that have taken in many countries and even led her to the South Pole, with the North Pole her next great adventure. Alyssa has shared several links that may be of interest to listeners having heard her on the podcast. As she says, they are links to “interesting things.” Jobs in the US antarctic program (USAP): The USAP Portal: Science and Support in Antarctica - Jobs and Opportunities ‘ai pono hawaii, residential eating disorder treatment facility that i work for (eating disorder coaching is separate from ‘ai pono): Residential Eating Disorder Treatment Center TSX website: TSX Challenge - Guided Backpacking Challenges Northwinds expeditions, polar trainings in Baffin island: NorthWinds - Northwinds Expeditions Ventiventiventi project (haven’t mentioned this yet, but it’s a project I’m supporting in the spring: The Project | Venti Venti Venti Joanne has had a couple of months to reflect upon her own epic hiking year, and we catch up with her today on the show. The memories are all about “the people.” I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. Come on the show! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingr
Thu, January 11, 2024
Episode #408 - Olive McGloin and Darrell Johnson (Raindance and The Chimp)
Olive McGloin and Darrell Johnson don’t seem content with straightforward thru-hikes, they tend to go for the YOYO. That is: they turn around and head back the way they’ve come to complete double thrus in a season. Olive has YOYO’d the Triple Crown, with Darrell almost complete in that endeavor. Their remarkable story has, I’m afraid, been beset by some technical difficulties on my part, but their story is so fascinating that I wanted to tell it. You can follow along with their adventures through Instagram at Instagram (@oudarrell) Mark Carpenter returns to the show with his reflections on his 2023 thru-hike after the benefit of a couple of months back home. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, January 04, 2024
Episode #407 - Jason Tompkins (Out & About)
Jason Tompkins is a returning guest to the show this week. He was on last year, discussing a new route / trail that he came up with and named “The Carolinian.” This week, an AT thru-hike was just part of his 2023 adventure. He took on the Eastern Continental Trail, stretching from Key West in the south to Newfoundland; an epic, if ever there was one. Jason didn’t share any social links, but check out his YouTube channel at Out & About . It’s awesome. We also caught up once more with Mary Marks, who has had a little time to reflect on what she achieved last year in completing her AT thru-hike as part of the Mighty Blue Class of 2023. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. Register as a Guest If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Additionally, we accept Venmo and Zelle through steve@hikingradionetwork.com . Any support i
Thu, December 28, 2023
Episode #406 - Sarah Beatrice (Too Long)
Sarah Beatrice, a fellow member of the Appalachian Trail Class of 2014, is my guest today. Sarah started after me and finished before me, so we may well have met as she cruised past me! We’ll talk about her hike then, of course, but it is her after-hike life that especially interested me, with loads more travel and even a trip to Everest Base Camp. You can follow Sarah on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/sbeatrice13?mibextid=ZbWKwL on Instagram at Instagram (@traveler_sarahb) and on YouTube at Travel with Sarah B We saved it until the last show of 2023 to conclude the Mighty Blue Class of 2023, with Jessica Lang-Wright reaching Harpers Ferry, to be greeted by friends and family, as well as one of our listeners who came along to give Jessica a finish she deserved. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I
Thu, December 21, 2023
Episode #405 - Clark L Ward (Wild Coyote)
Clark L Ward is our guest this week. Clark is a Native American and, while his hike was important to him, it was the story he was sharing with hikers along the way that made his hike so meaningful for him. Clark carried an orange flag that he got people to pose with at every opportunity along the way. Naturally, it accompanied him to Katahdin. His cause was Every Child Matters and all parents will feel empathy for the children involved. Clark sent me several links–below–that will amplify the message. Orange Shirt Day link Orange Shirt Day founder Phyllis Webstad answers kids’ questions | CBC Kids News Phyllis Webstad shares her story & the message that #EveryChildMatters 🧡 #OrangeShirtDay #CBCKids You can also find Clark on Facebook at Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Coyote2010 Jessica’s hike is getting to the end (as she heaves a sigh of relief). This week, we talk just 40 miles north of her ultimate destination–her Katahdin–at Harpers Ferry. She’s ready to be done and get her reward for the grit and determination she’s showed. Can’t wait to hear from her at the end. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. Register as a Guest If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at <a href="https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/" target= "_blank" rel= "nofollow noopener noreferrer ug
Thu, December 14, 2023
Episode #404 - Mary Wilson (Shades)
Mary Wilson is our guest this week and, when you know that her trail name is Shades, the blind hiker, you’ll understand what an extraordinary endeavor she took on attempting a thru-hike in 2023. Mary is overwhelmingly positive and looks to the reasons why she can do a thru-hike as opposed to the reasons why, perhaps, she shouldn’t. Family circumstances took her off the trail after more than 600 miles, yet she has pledged to return in 2024 to get the job done. She’s a remarkable woman. You can follow some of Mary’s journey on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075877519390 and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/shadesblindhiker/ Jessica is within spitting distance of the end of her own epic journey, with just 100 miles to go, expecting to reach her goal two days before Christmas. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, December 07, 2023
Episode #403 - Lynne Savino (Caboose)
We’ve got our favorite doctor on the show today. Lynne Savino shares with us her recent backpacking medical adventure that she was a part of, taking in the Virginia Triple Crown with a group of fellow doctors. Lynne’s excitement at merely standing on MacAfee Knob–with virtually zero view–provides us with a touching reminder of how important these special moments are. You can check out the Summer Adventure Camp she refers to in our conversation at https://www.wilderness-adventure.com/ , which she also sent me a link to the rescue gear used in their exercise. https://skedco.com/product/sked-basic-rescue-system-international-orange/ All interesting stuff and the fact that they took in the Virgina Triple Crown over the course of the exercise is an added bonus. Jessica has been braving the rocks of PA and is now largely through the worst of them as she approaches Port Clinton. She is now under 200 miles from her personal Katahdin in Harpers Ferry, which she aims to reach before Christmas. It’s been epic. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at <a href= "
Thu, November 30, 2023
Episode #402 - Dan Klaiber (Rockhopper)
Dan Klaiber is our guest this week and, while he had been planning a PCT thru-hike, Covid threw a wrench in the works and he had to look elsewhere. What he came up with was an epic journey through Britain, linking many established, and several not-so-well established trails to produce his very own long-distance trail. He’s a great planner, so the logistic geeks among you will enjoy reading the document he sent me, as well as his LighterPack link at https://lighterpack.com/r/lel2lg You can check out the full detail of his hike at https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1PJlXtUQxh54HgubLSA31FK0F4vYKT807?usp=drive_link You can also see more pictures on his Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/danklaiber/ When Dan reached the end of his hike, his now-fiancee had commissioned a beautiful memento that will serve as a wonderful reminder of his hike and the start of his new life with Claire. Jessica has been getting help from our listeners along the way and is now about to enter PA. Just two states to go. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . And don’t forget. Our entire series of videos from our Woods Hole Weekend in 2022 is now FREE and available at my YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA8ImK4qpNc&list=PLu8u88nsJtgWZxT8DLwEW2yXcz4gT6HXs There, you’ll find all sorts of tips and tricks that our guests took away from the weekend that helped them with their own hikes this year. Check it out. I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the
Thu, November 23, 2023
Episode #401 - Emily Johnson (Cobweb Rose)
Another newly minted thru-hiker from the Class of 23 joins us this week. Emily Johnson turned to backpacking when she met a guy who would become her hiking mentor. She found escape in the woods from her stressful job as a young nurse during Covid. Emily pushed through the horrendous variety of weather that thru-hikers encountered this year, making it to Katahdin in exactly six months. You can follow Emily at her various social media channels. On Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/6821010384580558/?hoisted_section_header_type=recently_seen&multi_permalinks=7430986266916297 , on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cobwebrose_on_the_trail/ and on her YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/@cobwebroseonthetrail2447?si=jtwfLSVFnFaFxB-4 We catch up with Jessica as she is trying to race winter and get her own thru-hike wrapped by Christmas. Unfortunately, her partner was at Urgent Care as we spoke. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with
Thu, November 16, 2023
Episode #400 - Chris Marshburn (Roll Tide)
For our 400th show today, I have Chris Marshburn, or Roll Tide, as my guest. Chris is a phenomenal steward for the trail, having been a Caretaker in New England and, this year, the sole Ridgerunner on the Appalachian Trail in the Smokies. His generosity of spirit, along with his curious nature, shines through in our conversation; indeed, it was during our recording that I decided he’d be the perfect guest to celebrate this episode milestone. You can see Chris’s awesome photos on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tndefender/ and find him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/christopher.marshburn?mibextid=9R9pXO He also provided me with great articles that tell what is involved in being a ridgerunner and a Back Country Caretaker. https://appalachiantrail.org/official-blog/ridgerunners-voice-for-the-trail/ https://she-explores.com/freeform/whats-it-like-to-work-in-the-woods/ We had a voicemail from one of our listeners today, with Crystal Glynn sharing a personal Trail Magic experience. I hope that listeners feel similarly inspired to share some of their stories using the microphone at the bottom right-hand corner of our website hikingradionetwork.com Then, I woke up Jessica Lang-Wright for her to update me on her steady progress as she is now less than 500 miles from the end of her own epic journey. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly
Thu, November 09, 2023
Episode #399 - Beth Bakke Stenehjem & Frank Levine (Dos Caminos)
Today, to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the completion of my Camino Francés hike in 2018, I’ve invited two friends to the show to share their Caminos this year. Beth Bakke Stenjhem went for her second Camino Francés earlier this year with some friends. It wasn’t entirely plain sailing, with some nasty injuries along the way. Also today, Frank Levine and his family took on the Portuguese Camino, from Lisbon to Santiago. His story has solidified my plans for the same hike next year, though Dana and I intend to start from Porto for a two-week hike. Frank has kindly shared an email address if you have any Camino questions for him. It is hikinglevine@gmail.com We also hear about Joanne Flagg’s ending at Springer Mountain, when she called me from the plaque within minutes of her completed thru-hike. She’s our third full thru-hike this year, though Steve Nota also completed his hike from last year. Then, Jessica Lang-Wright is continuing her own battle against the elements in an attempt to complete her thru-hike by mid- to late-December. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting ou
Thu, November 02, 2023
Episode #398 - Kyle O'Grady (Narnar)
Our guest this week is the host of the popular YouTube channel, Kyle Hates Hiking. Kyle O’Grady did his AT thru-hike in 2018, then started his channel a year later. He’s funny, irreverent, and wryly observant. I even tried out something new in our interview. I hope you like it. You can follow Kyle on several platforms. Of course, there’s his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@KyleHatesHiking , but you can also follow him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kylehateshiking/ and hear his podcast, Trail Tales - Thru Hiking and Backpacking on Apple at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trail-tales-thru-hiking-backpacking-and-peak-bagging/id1441376382 and on Spotify at https://open.spotify.com/show/5LsMWoNa5qPw1jQvqhwE5B?si=ba6c5e7d3fc84611 While everything on his YouTube channel is hiking and backpacking related, Kyle has branched out into mysteries on the trail. These are well-researched and very entertaining. Joanne is nearing the end of her thru-hike. In fact, she plans to summit Springer the day THIS episode is released, and I hope to be able to interview her from Springer Mountain for next week’s show. Jessica is still moving on, but we were unable to connect this week. We’ll hear from her next week. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. <a href= "https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/sh
Thu, October 26, 2023
Episode #397 - Aron Goss (OG)
Aron Goss did his thru-hike this year. It was about as perfect as a hike could be, with his family supporting him every step of the way, and climbing Katahdin with him at the end. On the way, he engaged with his fellow hikers, gaining an appreciation of the community and enjoying his interactions with younger hikers he met. You can follow his progress on his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Zm4PKcsysvdb2l-nWWIrA and on his Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/agoss23and3/ At the end of his trip, much like his all or nothing approach to his hike, Aron got a tattoo. Check it out below. Now THAT’S what I call an AT tattoo. Joanne is now under 200 miles to go, while Jessica stayed with Betty and Bruce McEnaney this week. Betty was also in the MB Class of 23 this year. Here they are together. That always warms my heart. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at <a href= "h
Thu, October 19, 2023
Episode #396 - Ed Riggs (Phys Ed)
We have Ed Riggs on the show today. Ed hiked the AT in 2013 and had to face some severe health issues on the way. In fact, he had to leave the trail and come back the following year to get it completed. He also faced the dilemma many of us encounter while we’re out there; keeping the family comfortable with what we’re doing, without scaring the living daylights out of them! Ed is inspirational and worth checking out on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOicX70mHbdQbG5pGqqkepw Unfortunately, due to a complete shambles on my part, I lost this week’s recording with Joanne Flagg, but we do hear from Jessica Lang-Wright, who is heading south after her triumph on Katahdin last week. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any suppo
Thu, October 12, 2023
Episode #395 - Chris Casado (Commissioner)
We have a returning guest this week. Chris Casado was the guy who was able to help me overcome the difficulties I was having with altitude out West, by getting me, in a guided hike, to the top of Mt Whitney. It remains one of my proudest moments. I wanted to catch up with Chris to get his perspective of our hike and the many others he’s involved with. He’s an interesting character who gives a lot of himself in the service of others. You can find out more about TSX and the other hikes at their website, at https://tsxchallenge.com/ Also, you can follow them on Facebook at https://m.facebook.com/tsxchallenge and on Instagram at https://instagram.com/tsx.challenge With just two members of our Mighty BLue Class of 2023 still out there, we hear from Jessica at the summit of Mt Katahdin and Joanne from Erwin, TN. Check out Jessica’s summit picture below. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, pl
Thu, October 05, 2023
Episode #394 - Drexel Swanson (Prepper)
Drexel Swanson, or Prepper, is our guest today. Drexel was a member of the Class of 23, and his story is an epic tale of resilience and a refusal to take no for an answer. What happened to him was, at times, truly stressful–even life endangering–yet he pushed on through with a grim determination. I’ve seen pictures of the damage to his foot that he talks about in the show and, trust me with this, it isn’t something you really want to see over your breakfast. But Drexel has a YouTube channel where–I must warn you here, his injury is on full display. Not for the squeamish! You can find the YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@drexelhikes52 , but don’t say I didn’t warn you!! Joanne and Jessica call in on their respective journeys this week, with Joanne into her last three states heading south, while Jessica pushes towards Katahdin. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Migh
Thu, September 28, 2023
Episode #393 - Laura Howe (Moonpants)
We have a newly minted Appalachian Trail thru-hiker as our main guest on the show today. Laura Howe, or Moonpants, took on the trail with gusto. Near the end, she had a terrifying river crossing that eventually necessitated an SOS call. She made it, but had an up-close look at how things can go quickly wrong. Her can-do attitude shines through our conversation and, despite her untimely premature exit, she was able to get back on and finish the hike. You can follow Laura through Instagram at https://instagram.com/moonpants.hikes Both Jessica and Joanne continue heading in opposite directions, with Jessica approaching Monson and the 100 Mile Wilderness while Joanne is about to meet some ponies in the Grayson Highlands. We also introduce you to our latest podcast on the channel, The Platinum Blazing Podcast, with Bruce (RTK) Matson as the host. This show is scheduled to hit next Wednesday, October 4, though Apple may have something to say about that! Rest assured, I’ll be posting on our HikingRadioNetwork Facebook page to let you know it’s up and running. After that, it’ll be released every Wednesday morning. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consi
Thu, September 21, 2023
Episode #392 - Lee Lovelace (Hooker Tush)
Lee Lovelace and I met at Trail Days this year in the author’s tent. My books are about my AT thru-hike, while Lee’s book, Sawyer’s Run, is a novel about the AT. We both share an abiding passion for the trail and I wanted Lee to come on the show to tell his story of resilience. Much of his novel is based upon real events, while plenty is made up; you decide what to believe!! Most importantly, when we spoke, he was healthy again. you can check out a few links form Lee, including his author website at http://www.leelovelace.com , his Amazon Author page at http://www.amazon.com/stores/Lee-Lovelace/author/B08W6Z1YVS , as well as a blog post of his first attempt at a two week hike on the AT at https://www.justasmallcog.com/2017/10/14/not-the-hiking-story-i-thought-i-would-be-telling/ , and another post (with video) of his successful hike on the Virginia Triple Crown at https://www.justasmallcog.com/2021/06/22/virginia-triple-crown/ Mary, having been kicking her heels in Bangor for about five days, had her Katahdin Summit Day this past Friday. As you can see, and will hear, she had a blast. We also caught up with Jessica and Joanne, experiencing their hikes in very different ways. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an aw
Thu, September 14, 2023
Episode #391 - Suzanne Roberts
Suzanne Roberts is our guest today. She shares a thoughtful, female perspective on long-distance hiking, using her 1993 JMT hike as a backdrop. The concept of a different experience from men to women had never occurred to me, but I was intrigued to hear her story. She is releasing an Anniversary edition of her book about her JMT hike, and you can find it in the links she sent me below. Almost Somewhere https://www.amazon.com/Almost-Somewhere-Twenty-Eight-Trail-Outdoor-ebook/dp/B0BYHDJQZB?ref_=ast_author_dp Animal Bodies https://www.amazon.com/Animal-Bodies-Death-Desire-Difficulties/dp/1496231023/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&&qid=&&sr= Bad Tourist https://www.amazon.com/Bad-Tourist-Misadventures-Love-Travel/dp/B09MR51ZCJ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3BW358QN3V3IT&keywords=amazon+bad+tourist&qid=1694646839&s=books&sprefix=amazon+bad+tourist%2Cstripbooks%2C115&sr=1-1 My Writing Prompts substack newsletter I mentioned. 52 Writing Prompts | Suzanne Roberts | Substack My website: Home We have our first Appalachian Trail thru-hiker in our class of 23. Mark Carpenter made it to Katahdin on Tuesday. We hear from him prior to AND after his summit. Great achievement, Mark. Additionally, Joanne Flagg measures her progress south, as Mary Marks prepares to emulate Mark in a few days. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at Then The Hail Came George Steffanos . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. Register As A Guest If you like what
Thu, September 07, 2023
Episode #390 - Earl Porter (A.Ham)
In our last episode before the 9/11 Anniversary, Earl “Chico” Porter shares his inspirational story, and mission, to help veterans contemplating suicide. Part of this was to take on a winter SOBO hike of the Appalachian Trail, starting on the 20th Anniversary in 2021. You’ll hear how Earl fared, as well as his deeper message, which will resonate with most of us. Earl has supplied me with several links, including his Blog: https://blogs.loc.gov/folklife/2023/06/one-way-to-mitigate-the-risk-of-post-traumatic-stress/ He was also on the Hazardground Podcast and others at: Hazardground Podcast Ep. 292 - Earl Porter (U.S. Army / Something Outta Nothing) - Youtube Veteran Trash Talk - Trash Talk Hour Episode 93 A Conversation With Greg C. Washington and Lou Koon Finally, a couple of articles about Earl and his mission: Law student parlays difficult beginnings into success in Army and academics (emory.edu) Alumnus shines light on veteran suicide (ung.edu) Our Class of 2023 is coming to a conclusion for two of our members, with Mary Marks and Mark Carpenter just days away from Katahdin, while Jessica Lang-Wright and Joanne Flagg continue their quest into the Autumn. We were also lucky to hear from Doctor Lynne this week, who answered one of Mary Marks’s questions on Trench Foot. If you’d like to read more about it and, indeed, other items Lynne has covered in the past, click on this link to gain access to everything. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CJ5llgK7FUnbKnbtbWlsP6v_4dNentVa?usp=sharing As a by the by, Lynne refers to Forest Gump and Lieutenant Dan on this very subject. Here’s the clip. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eobm6s5ASVE If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners fo
Thu, August 31, 2023
Episode #389 - Stephen Cole (Sweat Bucket)
Steve Cole joins us on the show today. He was a guest on the podcast about two years ago, telling us about his first big hike; Le Tour du Mont Blanc. Since then, he’s hardly stopped hiking. Today, we talk about his Appalachian Trail thru-hike in 2021, as well as some of his other adventures. Steve shared his Facebook details, where he posted most of his thru-hike pictures. You can find it at https://www.facebook.com/stephen.cole.3388 And for those of you who consistently fail to score the JMT Golden Ticket, Steve has a workaround that may help you with that. You should also check the shoe he set fire to (below)!! All four of our remaining Mighty Blue Class of 2023 join me on the show today. You can hear the excitement building in two of them–Mary and Mark–as they are now into Maine and just a few weeks out from Katahdin, while the other two–Jessica and Joanne–are just as determined and working on their flips. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. Register As A Guest If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via che
Thu, August 24, 2023
Episode #388 - Greg Johnson (Midwatch) and Betsy Hutchins
This week, we hear from one of the leaders of the Summit Project and the mother from a Gold Star Family about what the project means to them. This remarkable effort honors the fallen from Maine in an outdoor setting that is truly inspirational. If you’d like to learn more about the project, and maybe even sign up for one of their events, check out the links below. https://thesummitproject.org https://thesummitproject.org/heroes-hundred-welcome/ https://thesummitproject.org/tsp-at-anp/ https://thesummitproject.org/home/support/ In our discussion, Betsy Hutchins talks about her stepson, Corporal Andrew Hutchins and kindly sent me a picture of both Andrew and his stone. Once you’ve listened to the story, you’ll understand more the impact that this project can, and has, had. We also hear from three of our four remaining members of the Mighty Blue Class of 2023, with Mark and Mary within a day of each other and now into Maine, while Joanne is in the Shennies heading south. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. <a href= "htt
Thu, August 17, 2023
Episode #387 - Kathie Brennan
Kathie Brennan is our guest today. She is President of the Ozark Trail Association, putting in hours of trail maintenance not only on her beloved trail, but also on the Appalachian Trail. She provides us with a sharp insight into trail work, with modern practices and even talks about leaf blowing for instant gratification! Find out more about the Ozark Trail at their website http://ozarktrail.com There’s also a useful trip planner at https://www.ozarktrail.com/planner/ Two of our Class of 23 ladies join us today, with Joanne Flagg, fresh from her group hike in Iceland, now heading back to Harpers Ferry and the Southern Appalachians. Also, Jessica Lang-Wright has flipped north and recently–like Mary Marks and Mark Carpenter just last week–has climbed Moosilauke. I added Mary’s picture last week. Here are Jessica’s and Mark’s. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. Register As A Guest If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on
Thu, August 10, 2023
Episode #386 - Steve Vilsack (Wye Knot)
Steve Vilsack joins us on the show today. He refuses to see limitations that would prevent many others from even attempting the Appalachian Trail. He is legally blind, he fell too many times to count, and he got to the end by sheer strength of character. His story is an affirmation of the human spirit that will inspire many of us to not look at what we can’t do, rather what we can do. You can follow Steve on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092445351138 and https://www.facebook.com/WyeKnotRetreat Check out the home he renovated and the little house he hopes to welcome hikers to. Mark Carpenter and Mary Marks are just a day or two apart, with Mary having hiked over Moosilauke and Mark about to do so. Here’s Mary at the top. Watch out for Mark next week at the same spot. Justin Mullins (and his parrot) joined us between Mark and Mary today to talk about his local trail, The Allegheny Trail. You can learn more by clicking on any of the links below. Allegheny Trail website https://www.hikethealleghenytrail.org/ West Virginia Scenic Trails Association website https://www.wvscenictrails.org/ Email address Wvscenictrails@gmail.com Allegheny Trail | Facebook https://m.facebook.com/groups/295404191141571/ Allegheny Trail Instagra
Thu, August 03, 2023
Episode #385 - Adrienne Washney (Mother Hen)
One of our listeners introduced me to Adrienne Washney, who thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2022. She incorporated her shakedown hikes into the thru-hike, by taking the first few weeks in weekend hikes and gradually adjusting or refining her set up. When she was ready to go it alone, she’d sorted out the kinks. Adrienne had quite the adventure, even leaving the trail with about 80 miles to go to Katahdin to attend her son’s wedding; she even had a momentary pause over that! Always thoughtful and often reflective in her answers, Adrienne was a joy to talk with. You can follow her adventures on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/adrienne.washney , and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tryingthehardhike_at2022/ We check in with five of our Class of 2023 members today; Joanne Flagg, Mary Marks, Ron Ward, Jessica Lang-Wright, and Bryan Robbins. Joanne got to Katahdin and met a moose one morning. Check it out. https://www.facebook.com/joanne.flagg.79/videos/298348022714840/ If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch.
Thu, July 27, 2023
Episode #384 - Kristy Burns and Annette Dumbell (The Wander Women)
Some of the most recognizable hikers from the Class of 2019, The Wander Women, join us today. At least, two of them do. Kristy Burns and Annette Dumbell are two women in search of adventure, using their retirement time to travel, hike, bike, and canoe. They share their stories with Steve as they reminisce their adventurous life. These are two women who are clear-eyed and intentional about choosing how to spend their time. You can join in their adventures by following them on social media. On Facebook, they’re at https://www.facebook.com/RVsters . They can be found on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/wanderwomen_kristy_annette/ , while their YouTube channel is at https://www.youtube.com/@wanderwomenkristyannette5021 . I highly recommend you check out their Katahdin Day video. Our Class of 2023 tell us about their varying fortunes, with Steve Nota having his Katahdin moment, as well as the accompanying emotions. Check it out. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. Register As A Gues
Thu, July 20, 2023
Episode #383 - Dan Nobles (Wandering Monk)
Our guest today, Dan Nobles, was a Colonel in the Army, working out of the Pentagon, when he quit and went to Seminary School. I think I’ve rarely heard of such a drastic change of scenery. Vowing never to hike again after he left the military, his brother coaxed him back into it and he found the solace on the trail that he needed. Dan has some fascinating takes on many topics in this interview and, as the Wandering Monk, he has an informative YouTube channel that visits lesser-known trails. You can find his channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD5jYEV7mSM2AV5VdQ1gLSQ We catch up with two of our Mighty BLue Class of 2023 today. Mark Carpenter and Mary Miles are two of our surviving members. This week, Mark shares his stories about the sapping heat and dreadful weather in New England, while Mary reflects upon the loss of her hiking companion. Our last two interviews today are with John Dupras and Kim Mondonedo. John is a friend and fellow member from the AT Class of 2019, and he is taking part in an epic Ohio Bike ride, the Ragbrai, raising money on behalf of multiple sclerosis, a devastating disease. John shares his story of a friend with the disease, Fizzy (pictured below). If his story resonates with you, please support this selfless act and donate to the cause at https://mssociety.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.participant&participantID=371285 You can also find out more on the race itself by visiting https://ragbrai.com/ Our last guest today is Kim Mondonedo, who met one of our Class of 23, Joanne Flagg, in difficult circumstances. Kim wanted to share her story, and we’re honored to include it today. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. Register As A Guest If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and wan
Thu, July 13, 2023
Episode #382 - Nancy East
On today’s show, we have Nancy East, a retired veterinarian who is also an avid and accomplished hiker. Nancy is the perfect person to talk about dogs on the trail from a vet’s perspective. As somebody who know’s literally zero on the subject, I turned to my good buddy, ChaptGPT, to help me out with my questions that seemed to cover the subject pretty well. You can find more about Nancy’s rich hiking life and hiking achievements by visiting her website at https://www.hopeandfeathertravels.com/ We also catch up with two of our still-running Mighty Blue class of 2023 team. Steve Nota and Joanne Flagg have been bang in the middle of the horrendous weather the New England states have been experiencing this week. I also added a short piece about my son, Rob, pictured below. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. Register as a Guest If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayP
Thu, July 06, 2023
Episode #381 - Kevin Kinne
Today, we hear from a man who really loves the AT. Kevin Kinne and I have been communicating since 2017, and he maintains part of the AT near Great Barrington. He also provides trail magic for hikers, forming firm friendships along the way. One such meeting resulted in a thru-hike of the JMT with the Suttons and their son, Harvey. You can follow along with their journey at Kevin’s YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTX1tw8B4M1VYKsfJnEH8GA If you’re inspired to volunteer for the trail, you can reach out to Kevin’s club, The Western Massachusetts Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club at https://www.amc-wma.org/at If you’d like to find a club in your region, try this link to all the ATc clubs providing volunteer opportunities. https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/clubs-partners/ We also hear from just two of our Class of 23 members, Jessica Lang-Wright and Dale Shotkoski. For one of them, it’s the end of their adventure for this year. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 I often ask listeners for ideas on who to interview, and I’m sure several of you say, “I could do that. I’ve got an awesome story to tell.” You’re the person we need to hear from. If you’d like to be interviewed on the podcast, just register as a guest on the link below, and I’ll be in touch. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/guests/intake/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see o
Thu, June 29, 2023
Episode #380 - Samantha Sharkey (Lemon Drop)
We’re back to our usual format this week, with our main guest, three catch up interviews with our Mighty Blue Class of 2023 and the next chapter of George Steffanos’s “Then the Hail Came.” I met Samantha Sharkey at Trail Days this year and invited her to come on the show. She shares a deeply personal story and truly had a life-altering hike. That is an often hyperbolic statement, though not in Samantha’s case. You can see more of Samantha’s hike on her Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sa_sharkey/ Joanne Flagg has reached New Hampshire and tells Steve about her first 4000 footer, Moosilauke, while Ron Ward’s injury woes have continued. Ron is itching to get back out there, though the current outlook is uncertain at this point. ON the other hand, Mark Carpenter is heading home for a wedding, happy to be going so well, but with a hilarious encounter with a raccoon under his belt. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/ , or click on the store button on our network website at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you'd like
Thu, June 22, 2023
Episode #379 - Jillian Hitt (Buckets)
This is an unusual show for us. Our guest, Jillian Hitt, who attempted a thru-hike in 2018, isn’t on the show, though three important people in her life are on to share her story. Centrally, we hear from Jillian’s mother throughout the show, with contributions from her best friend Jessica Berringer and one of her hiking partners, Thomas Steiner, or Scatter. This is all intended to celebrate Jillian’s life and the legacy and imprint on the lives of people she knew. As you can see from the picture below, Thomas eventually carried Jillian’s “bucket” to Katahdin and proudly showed it off. Jillian's mother, Dana, is the thread that runs through her daughter's story, and both Dana and her ex-husband were instrumental in instilling the love of the trail to their daughter. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/ , or click on the store button on our network website at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you'd like to take advantage of my book of
Thu, June 15, 2023
Episode #378 - The Mighty Blue Class of '23 Update
This week is all about the members of the Mighty Blue Class of 2023. We’ve never had the opportunity to track them down all at the same time, so I thought this week, in the middle of June, would be as good a time as any to take stock. We hear the latest disappointments, as well as the wonderful moments that they have all experienced. In editing this, I was made more aware than ever of the fickle nature of the Appalachian Trail and its ability to still surprise me. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," (even though I’m not reading to today) check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/ , or click on the store button on our network website at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, June 08, 2023
Episode #377 - Spencer McKay (Warpzilla)
Our guest today, Spencer McKay, completed his thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2007. The poignant reason he went on the trail at that time is told in his conversation with Steve this week. As an Eagle Scout, he always believed he’d hike the trail at some time during his life, but events of the previous winter pushed his timeline up considerably. You can see more of Spencer on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/warpzilla and if you’d like to read his book, Walk With You , you can find it on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Walk-You-Spencer-Warpzilla-McKay/dp/0692178929/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2FY4V2Y59EGIN&keywords=walk+with+you&qid=1685651232&sprefix=walk+with+you%2Caps%2C87&sr=8-1 Three more members of our Mighty Blue Class of 2023 give us recaps of their progress so far. First up, Dale Shotkoski is through the Virginia Triple Crown, having to endure a whiteout at McAfee Knob. With more than 700 miles to his credit, Dale is killing it. Then, Jessica Lang-Wright has shown so much resilience to still be out there. I met her in Damascus and she looked so well. This week, she continues to thrive and we celebrate her passing the 600-mile marker. Finally in our group, Joanne Flagg is way up north, pushing through Vermont on her flip flop. Can’t wait to hear how she gets on in the two big states of New Hampshire and Maine up next. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the
Thu, June 01, 2023
Episode #376 - Mark Beno (Papa Dump)
Mark and David Beno, a father and son hiking team, took on the Appalachian Trail in 2022. Mark shares their story in this week’s show. The two of them chose to flip flop, choosing an unusual plan by leaving from Damascus headed north in March, then flipping back to Damascus after summiting Katahdin and heading south. This was more than a bucket list item for Mark, and he appreciated the community he found himself in. You can follow Mark and David’s hike on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mbeno1?mibextid=LQQJ4d We catch up with our most recent–and last–starter in our Mighty Blue Class of 23. Nancy Farrell heads out this week after allaying her concerns over her boyfriend’s health. We’ll find out soon how those early miles affect her. Betty McEnaney caught a lot of rain this week, and shares THAt story with us all. I’ve recently been to Trail Days and followed that by five days back on the AT with three friends. I share a little of that experience with you all. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/ , or click on the store button on our network website at <a href= "https://www.hikingradionetwork.c
Thu, May 25, 2023
Episode #375 - Al Marriott (Lookout)
We have a shorter show than usual today, as I’m away hiking. There is still a great interview and the next segment of the book “Then the Hail Came.” Al Marriott is an adventurous guy, traveling worldwide to satisfy an urge to wander, recording his journeys via his YouTube account. His mind fell to the Appalachian Trail, and he set out to do it last year. Al is a natural storyteller and shares some poignant moments out there, particularly with his tramily, though an unpleasant encounter with a tree branch was also something of a high(low)light. You can follow Al on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AdventureTogetherOfficial , on Instagram at both https://www.instagram.com/adventuretogether.ig/ and https://www.instagram.com/Afrocrow/ , while his YouTube channel is at https://www.youtube.com/adventuretogether1 If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully appreciated. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/
Thu, May 18, 2023
Episode #374 - Kelly Jaworski (Birdie)
Kelly Jaworski hiked the AT in 2021 with a former guest of the show, Stuart (Puppy Love) Phelps. I reached out to her when I saw her epic summit photo on Facebook. She returned my invitation to the show a year later!! She had an excellent excuse, though; she was having a baby. Kelly came on the show and demonstrated that, even though we walk the same path, even when we hike with the same person, our perspective informs our story, and those perspectives are often so different. She doesn’t use social media extensively, so she suggested I repost Stuart’s Instagram, in which she figures extensively. https://www.instagram.com/stuphelps/ . We lose another member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2023 this week, when we catch up with Ron Ward, Steve Kortekamp, and Mark Carpenter. You’ll have to listen to find out who’s gone home. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/ , or click on the store button on our network website at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by m
Thu, May 11, 2023
Episode #373 - Jana Giles & David Nelson (Ducky & Gravy)
We have a young couple as our guests this week; Jana Giles and David Nelson, otherwise known as Ducky and Gravy. They have known each other for some time but, in planning to go on an Appalachian Trail thru-hike, they started dating just before they headed out on the trail. Despite putting their relationship on the line, they clearly worked it out, finishing just five months after starting South bound from Katahdin. Jana wrote a blog for the Trek, so you can check that out at http://thetrek.co/author/jana-giles Our intrepid three from the Class of 23 are Steve Nota, who describes his encounter with the dreaded Norovirus, Joanne Flagg, who is gratefully through with Pennsylvania, and Dale Shotkoski, who puts some of Doctor Lynne’s advice to use. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/ , or click on the store button on our network website at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the Uni
Thu, May 04, 2023
Episode #372 - Patch Leonard (Cold Brew)
We have Patch Leonard as our guest today. Patch is the son of Emily Leonard–a previous guest on the show–and he tells us of his own Appalachian Trail thru-hike last year. He has grown up in Maine and New Hampshire, so hiking was more or less in his blood, yet the idea to hike the trail came after his mother blazed her way to Maine. You can follow Patch’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@ColdbrewPatch , but first, savor this sight at the top of an empty Katahdin early in the morning on Patch's Summit Day. Awesome. Our three conversations with our Class of 23 were all very positive. Betty McEnaney has to cope with an internal crisis, while Bryan Robbins starts, gets off trail to retire, then heads back out, while we hear from Mary Marks–with Wiley–from Virginia’s Triple Crown. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, April 27, 2023
Episode #371 - Zach Cross
Zach Cross is starting his NOBO thru-hike from Springer on May 1. That he is even attempting this hike is something of a miracle. Three years ago, as Covid hit us, Zach weighed about 400lbs. His journey since then, aided by hiking and nature, has brought him to contemplating an epic undertaking. The simple act of committing to a daily hike up and down a mountain in Georgia speaks of his determination to not only feel better about himself, but also to inspire others, and that initially small actions can have such powerful repercussions. You can follow Zach on his journey at https://instagram.com/hikingzach?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= , as well as on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@AT_Zach . You can hear his brief interview on CNN at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2g7jkLDd9c Our Mighty Blue Class of 2023 is thinning out a little this week. We say goodbye to Erin Conrad (and her Mom), and Sonny Blackwell, while Dale Shotkoski is still out there, lovin' his life. As we say goodbye to Erin, here’s a pic of the two of them at the top of Springer. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check
Thu, April 20, 2023
Episode #370 - Jim LePage (Grey Ghost)
Jim LePage is a man who spends a lot of time outdoors. He hiked the AT in 2018, having thought about it for years. The proverbial window of opportunity eventually opened, and he climbed straight through it. Jim talks about the importance of spousal support and was lucky enough to have his family either hiking with him or resupplying him. Overcoming doubts as to his ability to finish, Jim managed it to the end and returned home with his accomplishment secure. He owns a camp with a spectacular view over Katahdin. Imagine waking up to these views for weeks on end!! Three of our Mighty Blue Class of 23 are with us today. Jessica Lang-Wright has had a difficult time of it so far, but her support has come from her fellow hikers–as it always does. Then, Ron Ward is cheerfully battling a weak knee, yet his attitude remains completely positive. Finally, Joanne Flagg has started her flip flop from Harpers Ferry. She’s coping with some unseasonably hot weather but finding her feet. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. Remember to check out our Woods Hole Weekend Video Series, which is currently available–UNTIL THE END OF APRIL–for $100 off. You can see the trailer at
Thu, April 13, 2023
Episode #369 - Bob Delaney (Jon's Dad)
We leave the AT behind today for a trip to Sweden and the Kungsleden, a trail that I’d never heard of before. Bob Delaney, or Jon’s Dad, has a history with Sweden and returned there to hike this lesser known trail. He was so enamored by the trail that he’s started a YouTube channel, a blog, and written a book about it. You can reach out to Bob directly at JonsDadHikes@gmail.com . He’ll be happy to hear from you and will try to help you if you consider hiking this Swedish trail. You can also find Bob on YouTube at http://YouTube.com/@JonsDadHikes , his blog is at http://TrailJournals.com/journal/25339 , while his recently completed book is on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C1DJ4BHP/ref=nodl_?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_FTX05JTC6NC28FBH69WY&dplnkId=c87bba3c-7148-493a-8d1d-e91e35e1fd7f . In our Mighty Blue Class of 23, Chuck Faulkinberry had to leave the trail when we last spoke, but he’s back today with positive news about his injury and his prospects going forward. Also, Nancy Farrell has had to postpone her hike due to a family illness, but she, too, has good news about her hike. Remember to check out our Woods Hole Weekend Video Series, which is currently available–UNTIL THE END OF APRIL–for $100 off. You can see the trailer at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/p/woods-hole-weekend/ If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll f
Thu, April 06, 2023
Episode #368 - Kenneth Pararo (Moron)
Kenneth Pararo is our guest today. He reached out to me, sending me a link to his podcast, and I entirely misjudged him. When I eventually spoke with Kenneth, he was articulate, thoughtful, and a lot of fun. He’s an AT thru-hiker, though when he went for a second time, he took a rather different route. Why and how he did so is explained in our chat. Once you get past his intro to the podcast, you’ll hear more of his somewhat quirky personality come through. You can find the podcast here: https://bookofmoron.podbean.com/ . Give it a listen. Also today, with thru-hiking season kicking into gear, we hear from three of our Class of 23 members. Bryan Robbins is on his way this very morning (April 6) and will be slackpacking for a few days before heading home to retire, then back to the trail for the duration. Also today, Steve Kortekamp and his daughter, Brooke, are hitting the trail this week. Steve’s had a bit of a health scare, but he heads out having been cleared by his Doc. Best of luck to these two. Already on the way is Betty McEnaney. Betty and I spoke when she was at the top of Albert Mountain, which is the approximate 100 mile mark. Here she is at the foot of the tower. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via chec
Thu, March 30, 2023
Episode #367 - Rachel Hadley-Leonard
Rachel Hadley-Leonard is our guest today. I heard about Rachel walking the South West Coast Path in England from one of our previous guests and wanted to know more about her hike. She instantly pushed this trail up near the top of my bucket list for a possible future walk with my brother, Mike. Rachel is a podcaster with two shows. One is specifically about her own journey, while the other is the official podcast of the Path itself. You can check them out here. https://open.spotify.com/show/0yz3aPkq27XcwOtrN8ip7N and https://open.spotify.com/show/2IVnHYXMC1SCWmT1MUmqA4 If you’d prefer to see that pics rather than hear the audio, you can follow Rachel on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/keepingtheseaontheright/?next=%2F , or the SouthWest Coast Path at https://www.instagram.com/southwestcoastpath/?hl=en You can also learn a lot about hiking the South West Coast Path from their website, at https://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/ Two of our Class of 23 members check in this week. Bostonian, Steve Nota, is back from Australia to complete his AT hike after several stops last year, while Mary Marks records her own (and Wiley’s) steady progress as she nears Damascus. We had awful new as I was writing the commentary. A fellow Class of 2019 member, Ray Kroebl has passed. I didn’t meet him on trail–we were always just a few days apart–but he was still my brother. Ray was a guest on the podcast last year, so I’d like to let you listen again to him if you remember him. Rest in Peace, brother. https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/episode-261-ray-kroebl-sparky/ </a
Thu, March 23, 2023
Episode #366 - Matt Hengst (Masochist)
Matthew Hengst, or Masochist, is today’s guest. He is one of those guys who has managed to parlay his passion for hiking into pretty much a full-time gig. He’s got an extensive outdoor resumé, but it is his 2021 thru-hike of the Eastern Continental Trail that we focus on today. On the trail, Matthew edited videos before getting out of camp, and his whole attitude is one of calm enjoyment in solitude. You can follow him on his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/FirstChurchofTheMasochistHikes , or his Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mattonamtn . He also has a website that encompasses all of his varied outdoor adventures. You can find that at http://www.firstchurchofthemasochist.com/ . Two of our Class of 23 members check in today. Ron Ward will be setting out on March 23 from Springer and is, as you’d expect, raring to go. He shares with us that he's hiking for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and has a fund raising page here. Check it out if his cause speaks to you. https://www2.jdrf.org/site/TR;jsessionid=00000000.app30108b?px=3424783&fr_id=8890&pg=personal&NONCE_TOKEN=29FF65E0FAFBA5F2BA2DE60BADE3B502 Mark Carpenter started three weeks ago and is having an absolute blast, encountering cold wet weather but smiling through. Doctor Lynne concludes her part in the show for the time being, when she talks to us about the way in which lightning impacts hikers and the medical points we all need to know. Lynne is such a blessing to the show and we’ve really loved having her input for the past few months. Remember, you can get all her notes through this link. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CJ5llgK7FUnbKnbtbWlsP6v_4dNentVa?usp=sharing . If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out Geor
Thu, March 16, 2023
Episode #365 - Mike (Blaze Dog) and Marla Hansen (Shows Up)
Our guests today are a husband and wife couple who worked out their own way to share the Appalachian Trail experience, even though only one of them walked the full 2200 miles. Mike and Marla Hansen used their RV to assist Mike’s hike, working out a routine that would be attractive to many, I’m sure. Marla did a lot of the resupply, as well as hiking into some of the iconic spots on the trail and supported Mike’s dream throughout. Their method is a way of sharing the journey that certainly worked for them and would make a great blueprint for couples with different goals about long distance hiking. You can follow their journey on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/blazedog72/ Two of our Class of 23 members are heading out this week. Both Betty McEnaney and Erin Conrad (along with her Mom), are hitting the trail as their dreams come to fruition in the next couple of days. We wish them both Happy Trails!! Doctor Lynne is coming to the end of her segment of the show, but we’d like to offer listeners the opportunity to ask her medical questions directly. Just click on the microphone icon at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/ and you can record a message of up to two minutes, which I’ll play on the show for Lynne to respond. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gr
Thu, March 09, 2023
Episode #364 - Mel Vogel
We have a true one-of-a-kind story today. Mel Vogel set out to hike the Trans Canada Trail in June 2017. Even when part of the trail was closed for recreational use during Covid, Mel remained on or near the trail in the Yukon, eventually completing it in November 2022. During her hike, Mel touched the Atlantic, Pacific, and even the Arctic Ocean, finding kindness and friends along the way, as well as her new friend, Malo, a lost dog. Mel and Steve share a personal conversation that touches nerves and reveals a strength of character within Mel. You can learn more about Mel and her remarkable journey at the following links: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-walking-trans-canada-trail/ https://tctrail.ca/news/melanie-vogel/ https://torontolife.com/memoir/three-years-ago-i-left-toronto-to-walk-across-canada-now-im-riding-out-the-pandemic-in-an-arctic-community-of-nine-people/ Our Class of 2023 is starting to hit the trail, one by one. This week, we catch up with three of them. Chuck Faulkinberry has to share some difficult news, Jessica Lang-Wright is having problems keeping warm at night (check the picture below), and Sonny Blackwell is racking up milestones along the way. Our Woods Hole Weekend Video Series is now available for purchase. With over 13 hours of solid content, with tips, tricks, hacks, and advice, our presenters prepared our guests for their own AT thru-hike. You can check out the trailer and various subjects covered at the link below: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/p/woods-hole-weekend/ <
Thu, March 02, 2023
Episode #363 - Charlie Janssen (Kansas Express)
When Charlie Janssen was just ten miles into his Appalachian Trail thru-hike in 2012, he wondered what it would be like to complete a Calendar Year Triple Crown. He found out in 2022, and shares his story with us. Charlie’s thoughts eventually solidified and the planning began. His pragmatic approach and never-give-up attitude are clear in our conversation, yet this is still an epic adventure and one that so few people have managed to complete. Charlie is only the thirteenth to complete it. He has so many links to follow if you’d like to dive further into his remarkable achievement. Here’s the list: Backpacker Magazine- https://www.backpacker.com/news-and-events/meet-the-high-school-teacher-who-finished-the-entire-triple-crown-in-a-calendar-year/ Kansas City NPR- https://www.kcur.org/podcast/up-to-date/2022-11-25/a-kansas-city-native-conquered-the-countrys-longest-trails-and-earned-hikings-triple-crown Action News Now- https://www.actionnewsnow.com/news/chico-hiker-conquers-7-500-mile-calendar-year-triple-crown/article_fa2a0d60-96d3-11ed-866d-db2e785a2b17.html John Freakin' Muir Podcast- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgeyJhACgpY Vail Daily- https://www.vaildaily.com/sports/janssens-journey-eagle-valley-cross-country-coach-is-attempting-trail-triple-crown/ Vail Daily- https://www.vaildaily.com/sports/janssen-hits-snow-on-appalachian-trail/ Vail Daily- https://www.vaildaily.com/sports/janssen-completes-pacific-crest-trail/ Vail Daily- https://www.vaildaily.com/news/charlie-janssen-completes-7412-mile-calendar-year-trail-triple-crown/ Vail Daily- https://www.vaildaily.com/sports/the-top-5-local-sports-stories-of-2022/ County 10 News, Lander, WY-<a href= "https://county10.com/distance
Thu, February 23, 2023
Episode #362 - Leah Harman (Twig)
Leah Harman, or Twig, is our guest today. She is a self-confessed nomad, concentrating in the past few years on backpacking her way through many trails, both in the US and abroad. Despite the solitary nature of many of her hikes, Leah enjoys the trail community and Trail Angels in particular. You can check out Leah’s many hikes in her excellent blog at https://twigadventures.com/ Mary Marks becomes the final member of our Mighty Blue Class of 2023, and we speak from Franklin, NC, where she is already on trail with her beautiful hiking companion, Wiley. Is Wiley a poser, or not!!?? Doctor Lynne talks to us about the prevalence of Lyme Disease, how to spot, and what to do about it. Remember, you can download her notes on any of the subjects she has shared in this short series by clicking on this link. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CJ5llgK7FUnbKnbtbWlsP6v_4dNentVa?usp=sharing If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. <p cla
Thu, February 16, 2023
Episode #361 - Casey Beeman (Freedom Pouch)
I found this week’s guest by reading an article he’d written about Post-Trail Depression. I know some people scoff at this concept, but it is real, and Casey Beeman articulates it beautifully. He did his thru-hike, along with his wife, Kylie, last year. They enjoyed the freedom to have a big adventure, but coming down to earth at the end turned out to be problematic, especially for Casey. I asked him to read the article during our conversation, which he duly did, and I think it adds power to the piece by the simple fact of him reading it. Our MB Class of 23 is boosted by just one new member today. Jessica Lang-Wright was one of our first class members but, for reasons you’ll hear today, it is only now that she can be on the show. Welcome Jessica. You can follow her through her Youtube channel, https://www.youtube.com/@bluehairedhiker , and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bluehairedhiker/ . Doctor Lynne has had to miss this week, but will return next week with her views on Lyme Disease. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. <p class="p1"
Thu, February 09, 2023
Episode #360 - Emet Baker (Quickbeam)
Emet Baker, or Quickbeam is our guest today. He was able to complete his first year college finals before heading out on trail last year, with a mission to accomplish and complete the trail before he needed to return to camp. Emet was suggested to me by a previous guest, who wrote such kind words about him, that I wondered if they were hyperbole. They weren't. He's an impressive young man with, I'm sure, a great future, both in hiking and pretty much whatever he turns his hand to. You'll be impressed by him as well. You can follow Emet on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/quickbeamwalks/ and, a first for the podcast, on Reddit at https://www.reddit.com/user/Grati_Mortui/ . Our Class of 23 is adding another new member this week, as well as revisiting an earlier member. Bryan Robbins plans to head out in April after retiring from his career, while Steve Kortekamp has a new partner to share the trail with. Here's Bryan. and here's Steve and Brooke. Doctor Lynne feeds our souls today with a chat about nutrition, though I was mainly interested in the undoubted benefits of Snickers on the trail. Happy Days. Remember, you can get ALL of Doctor Lynne's notes at this Google Drive link. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CJ5llgK7FUnbKnbtbWlsP6v_4dNentVa?usp=sharing If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at
Thu, February 02, 2023
Episode #359 - Toby Busch (Stovetop)
Our guest this week is Toby Busch, a young man who lives out of his Ford Connect and records his life adventures on YouTube. Last year, he fulfilled a long-held dream and moved out of his van and onto the Appalachian Trail. Along the way, he found his mix of solitude and community, and he reached Katahdin as a joyful thru-hiker. He's now back in his Connect and often moving about the country finding "70 degree weather!" Toby recorded several of these adventures too, so you can follow along with him at his channel, which is at https://www.youtube.com/@tobyintransit2533 . Sonny Blackwell joins the MB Class of 23, with a similar plan to one of our recent team members. He put a few miles in before Christmas. Doctor Lynne is back with another conversation for hikers about the importance of hydration on the trail. As always, she has notes on this important subject that you can download at https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CJ5llgK7FUnbKnbtbWlsP6v_4dNentVa?usp=sharing . If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/ , or click on the store button on our network website at Hiking Radio Network. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publish
Thu, January 26, 2023
Episode #358 - Amanda Wylie (Two Braids)
Amanda Wylie is an independent, strong young woman from Queens, NY. She hiked the Appalachian Trail last year and, despite loving the impact it had upon her, she had to address a few issues on her journey that were unexpected, and often unwanted. Despite that, she wants her experience to inspire women to take on the trail and embrace the experience. You can follow Amanda on Instagram at http://Www.instagram.com/realamandawylie , while her clothing brand can be seen at http://Www.instagram.com/nycampcore . Amanda has recently started a blog, so I’m adding the link to that as well. Check it out. https://twobraids.wixsite.com/twobraidsontrail?fbclid=PAAabt08On87gm-14x8Sci8eOCsrkfuR05rPe9JG_3SWr9QLbV9a0poafD2tw Amanda also mentioned a hiker's vlog that impacted her and which she feels most ressembled trail life. It's Trailhead Justin, at https://youtu.be/z1TsIVInx6c , while the family that kindly slackpacked her to the end when she was injured are also on YouTube. They are the Skogman Family, and their channel is at https://www.youtube.com/@SkogmanFamily . Carl Bergquist joins the MB Class of 23. He's another recent retiree, and his excitement is palpable! Doctor Lynne follows her hypothermia segment last week with the topical "Frostbite" this week. You can see her notes on this important subject at https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CJ5llgK7FUnbKnbtbWlsP6v_4dNentVa?usp=sharing If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at <a href= "https://www.hikingradionetwork.com"
Thu, January 19, 2023
Episode #357 - John Jordan (Morning Glory)
Today, we hear from one of the unsung heroes of our hiking world. He's not a thru-hiker–though his son did one–but he's a member of the Board of ALDHA, the Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association. Where the ATC concerns itself with the well-being of the trail itself, ALDHA focuses on hikers. John joined the board quite recently and is coordinating the ALDHA Care project, bringing a new enthusiasm to the role as he works out the best way to assist hiker hostels and, by association, hikers. You can find out more about both the work of ALDHA and ALDHA Care at the links below. Check them out. https://aldha.org/ https://aldha.org/volunteer/aldhacare Our latest member of the Mighty Blue Class of 23 is Dale Shotkoski. Dale looks to me as if his trail name is a bit of a shoe-in!! You can follow Dale on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/daleshotkoski/ Doctor Lynne is back again. This week,she brings us up to date with the latest information regarding hypothermia. I've created a Google Drive Doctor Lynne file. You can gain access to it and the growing information that we'll be adding in the coming weeks by clicking the link below. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CJ5llgK7FUnbKnbtbWlsP6v_4dNentVa?usp=sharing If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check
Thu, January 12, 2023
Episode #356 - Julia Widmar (Stretcher)
We have one of our younger newly minted thru-hikers today. Julia Widmar was only 20 when she hit the trail last year, though she had learned so much in the previous five years as she looked forward to this journey of a lifetime. Julia is an EMT nurse who was thoroughly prepared at Amicolola to take on the trail and, despite a three-week break in the middle, she pushed on to complete it in just over four months of trail time. While she didn't blog or vlog herself, Julia wanted to share the blog and vlog of two of her trail friends who she met out there. Doubtless, Julia will be in some of those. For those of you who like to go down the YouTube rabbit hole, there's https://youtube.com/@ScritchsGoneWild , while trailnametales on Instagram tells the story of trail names. That's at https://www.instagram.com/trailnametales/ Chuck Faulkinberry is taking on the AT as a member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2023 by having a little twist to his hike. You can follow Chuck on his vlog, Polar Bear Treks, at https://www.youtube.com/@polarbeartreks Doctor Lynne Savino returns to the show with some timely medical advice for our class–and others–heading onto the trail this year. She gives us her First Aid Kit list. I'll be adding this to the show notes NEXT week, so look out for that. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support i
Thu, January 05, 2023
Episode #355 - Nick Gagnon (Chezwick)
Nick Gagnon is an elite level hiker. He completed the Great Western Loop in 2022 in under 200 days, a remarkable achievement in that the loop is just shy of 7,000 miles. Virtually by definition, Nick spent a lot of time by himself, and he shares with us his coping mechanisms for such a solo endeavor. He was so disciplined in his approach, sharing why this is so necessary for this particular trail. You can find out more about Nick by visiting his website at https://chezwicktreks.com/ . He has a foundation that helps provide funds for water projects in countries that are in desperate need of such projects to provide their citizens with water security. Scroll down on Nick's website to read about–and donate to–the foundation. Steve Nota–a friend of the show from past years–joins our Mighty Blue Class of 2023. He came from Australia in 2022 to do the AT but had to spend time off the trail for a family emergency. He'll be heading back to complete the trail in March. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can also support our shows by visiting our online "Merch" store. Check it out at https://hrntradingpost.com/ , or click on the store button on our network website at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books
Thu, December 29, 2022
Episode #354 - Billy Arthur (Backwards)
Our guest today, Billy Arthur, or Backwards, met and fell in love with another hiker on the AT this year. Billy had wanted to get on the trail since his scouting days, yet he left it until his late 20s and found more than he'd bargained for! Backwards and Pigpen bonded throughout their hike and stayed together once they reached Katahdin. I'd always wondered about these on-trail romances, and Billy shares how they got together, as well as how they're coping with after-trail life. That he'd conducted his romance with Pigpen even when they were hiking with her mother is another part of the story that really amused me! You can stay in touch with Billy on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/billywarthur/ . Joanne Flagg is our latest member of the Mighty Blue Class of 23, with a flip-flop from Harpers Ferry in her future, sometime in April. She's even considering extending her thru-hike with a link up trip to Flagg Mountain, in Alabama. Please check out our new "merch" site at HRNTradingPost.com . I've worked out how to offer FREE shipping in the US (with a small flat fee for shipping to Canada), PLUS a reduction in prices. Check it out; you may like what you see!! If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, incl
Thu, December 22, 2022
Episode #353 - Jason Tompkins (Out and About)
Jason Tompkins is our guest today, with his stories about a new long-distance trail; The Carolinian. It's new because he named it, then hiked it this year. Yet that isn't all of Jason's story. He's worked out his life for the foreseeable future to spend pretty much all his time out on a trail! We agreed that he should come back on next year when (not if!!) he completes the East Coast Trail, from Key West up to Newfoundland, when he'll be taking in the Appalachian Trail along the way. You can follow Jason on his adventures through his YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@outandabout53/videos , on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Beardeux , and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/outandabout53/ . Also today, Ron Ward steps up as another member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2023, as this Grateful Dead-loving banker takes a sabbatical to hike the AT. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, December 15, 2022
Episode #352 - Brittany Rosendahl (Hot Hands)
We're sticking with the Class of 2022 hikers once more, with Brittany Rosendahl–one of my Facebook friends–sharing the story of her hike and what brought her to the trail. She's lived a demanding life as a nurse and recalls some really tough times during the Covid Pandemic. Sharing some more intimate details, she opens up about relationships and attitudes that she found to be so reassuring on the AT. You can check out more about Brittany on her YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNn7KRxzVYdQyNDPKxC7Kug . She also has an Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/b_rose_goes/ Nancy Farrell joins the Mighty Blue Class of 2023. She's a Canadian who has homes both north of the border and in New Hampshire. She's clearly making America her home for much of next year! You can follow Nancy through her YouTube Channel and her Instagram pages at https://www.youtube.com/@blueskynancy3396 https://www.instagram.com/carpediemnh61/ Additionally, she mentioned two charities she's supporting through her hike. First up, is Big Brother, Big Sister. You can read more about that–maybe consider getting involved–at https://bbbsnh.org . The other organization is the Special Olympics. You can learn more here. https://www.specialolympics.ca/british-columbia/communities/invermere If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at <a href= "https://www.hiki
Thu, December 08, 2022
Episode #351 - Samuel Crisp (Shaker)
This week, our guest, Samuel Crisp, is another of the Class of 2022 thru-hikers. His mature approach to the trail, his understanding and treatment of his injuries, and his intentional reflections, make for a fascinating conversation. Sam was lucky enough to summit Katahdin with his mother; indeed, he summoned up that image to keep him motivated on the trail when the going got tough. To see more of Sam, you can watch his hike through his vlog at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZuwzNRxP0Q&t=3s Our latest member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2023 is Mark Carpenter, a retired firefighter, whose real concern is facing the prospect of extended separation from his wife. For many, missing family is a real test, yet it is one of many aspects of a thru-hike that we all have to face out there. I got a message from one of our guests from the past; Stephanie "Sunshine" Lorenze. She hopes that the Mighty Blue family can help her YouTube channel move up a level by subscribing to it. She did the PCT in 2022, so subscribe if you'd like to watch her stories. https://www.youtube.com/@sunshineshikingandadventur9932/featured While I can't promise it will be ready when you read these notes, our "merch" store is projected to be open this week. You should be able to find it at https://hrntradingpost.com/ . I hope you find something there that you like! If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us v
Thu, December 01, 2022
Episode #350 - Frank Dutman (Heineken)
Today, we have a visitor from the Netherlands. Frank Dutman first heard about the trail in some unrelated research back in the late 90s. Since then, he's immersed himself in further research, and this year he achieved his dream of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. We hear a European perspective, even a European sensibility, in his approach to the trail and the preparations he made towards achieving his goal. Along the way, he tended to hike mainly alone, allowing himself the luxury of self-reflection, something that he valued highly. You can follow Frank's journey via his blog, at http://www.polarsteps.com/dut . However, it is written in Dutch so, unless you can find a translate button, you'll need to know that language!! Also today, our fourth member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2023, Samantha Galbo, introduces herself, sharing some of her background and reasons she wants to hike next year. You can follow Samantha on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/grassrooted.ascension/ . If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Fri, November 25, 2022
Episode #14 - Skunkape & Pheonix ( Talk about HangCon)
This is a special HangCon episode where Pheonix and I go over all of the details about the event. We get asked a lot of the same questions from people that will be joining us for the first time at HangCon so we just wanted to go into detail on what everyone needs to know and what to expect when they arive and for the weekend. Connect with HangCon Email : floridahangcon@gmail.com Website : www.hangcon.com Event registration : https://hangcon.com/event-registration Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/FloridaHangCon/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/floridahangcon Connect with Paul "Skunkape" Collins Email : skunkape@thehammockhangerspodcast.com HRN Website : https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/the-hammock-hangers-podcast-1 Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/TheHammockHangersPodcast Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/the_hammock_hangers_podcast YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOw28WMum0pNN5WNTCIa_1A If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, November 24, 2022
Episode #349 - Lauren Adamczak (Airbag)
Today's guest, Lauren Adamczak, described herself as "the quiet 30-year-old that never spoke up in groups, often looked down at the ground in public, and wouldn’t dare leave the house in mismatched clothes." Four days into the trail, she accepted–with glee–the trail name, Airbag. When I read a post she made on Facebook, I knew I wanted her on the show. Lauren didn't make it to the brown sign on Katahdin, but she had an adventure that energized and enhanced her life, taking on "Airbag" with such positivity that I wondered through our conversation whether it was Lauren or Airbag with whom I was talking. You can follow Lauren on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/lauren.the.airbag/ Steve Kortekamp is our third member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2023. Steve is a retired firefighter, and first saw the trail in the 60s, on Clingman's Dome, with his father. He'll be carrying the picture from that day (below) with him as he hikes the trail next year. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, November 17, 2022
Episode #348 - Stuart Phelps (Puppy Love)
Stuart Phelps, or Puppy Love, is our guest this week. Stuart had set himself a goal to thru-hike the trail when he turned 50, yet, as often happens, the window opened a little earlier and he set out in 2021, turning 48 on the trail. His story is a mixture of fun, mutual respect, love, and illness, and makes for a fascinating conversation. Wait until you hear how his first date with his girlfriend went!! You can follow Stuart's blog at https://stuhikes.com/blog/ , and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/stuphelps/ . This week's member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2023 features Betty McEnaney. Betty was a trail angel for our own Katie Westling last year and they took this selfie together. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, November 10, 2022
Episode #347 - Syd Sayward (Bug)
Today's show features a recently successful thru-hiker, and the first of our Mighty Blue Class of 2023. Syd Sayward has wanted to complete the AT since, as a 15-year-old, her athletics coach took her and some school friends up Mt. Washington. The experience stayed with Syd, and she started preparing for what she knew would be an AT attempt at some future date. That turned out to be 2022, and Syd shares her story. Syd kept a blog while she was out on the trail. You can check it out here. https://sydoutside.wordpress.com/ Erin Conrad wrote a long email to me to share her backstory regarding her own upcoming AT thru-hike, and she is the first member of our Mighty Blue Class of 2022. Oh yes, and she's taking her Mom with her!! If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, November 03, 2022
Episode #346 - Mike Current (Energizer)
Today's guest was a guest on the show at the beginning of 2021, sharing his stories about his PCT thru-hike. He never expected to go again–even though his wife always knew that he would–but there's something about the Appalachian Trail that was drawing him in. He didn't know what it was, but he discovered his "why?" on the trail. Mike, as an ex-military man, is an extremely detailed planner. He shares much of his planning and actual hikes at his YouTube channel, Old Man and the AT, at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUjqg7BI_TE-D_O45GapBzw Three particular videos outline his process. For Mental Preparation, check out https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWhzYl2zyNY&list=PLymdJYfEjLcPtz0KreGQl7BkNnMV4Z-Z6&index=6 For Physical Preparation, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWhzYl2zyNY&list=PLymdJYfEjLcPtz0KreGQl7BkNnMV4Z-Z6&index=6 and for Weight Matters, check out https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPQ0oEf0_rQ&list=PLymdJYfEjLcPtz0KreGQl7BkNnMV4Z-Z6&index=8 We were unable to bring you the Two Jenns from the Maine Roadhouse last week, but we worked it out this week, so they are on to share with you all about their new life as hostel owners in Maine. You can find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheMaineRoadhouse and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/themaineroadhouse/ If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and wan
Thu, October 27, 2022
Episode #345 - Tonya Lonsbury (Monarch)
Today's guest recently completed her AT thru-hike and, joyous as she is, she and Steve get into a conversation that celebrates the joy, but also delves into some of the more difficult, but ultimately triumphant, aspects of her journey and life. Tonya shares her faith with us and the important role it played in her ability to get to the end of her hike. You can follow more of Tonya's journey(S) on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/c/travelingwithtonya on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/travelingwithtonya and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/travelingwithtonya If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, October 20, 2022
Episode #344 - Kristi McLeod Fondren (HQtie)
Dr Kristi McLeod Fondren joins us today to bring an academic's view on hiking. Kristi hiked the PCT over the last couple of years and has combined that love of the outdoors with her work as a Professor at Marshall University. She has some great insights that she shares with us, as well as her deeply personal story. You can find out more about Kristi from her two journals from 2021 and 2022. They are at http://www.trailjournals.com/HQtieandTurkeyB for the 2021 hike and at http://www.trailjournals.com/HQtie for the 2022 hike She also referred to the First Descents Program, which you can learn about at http://www.firstdescents.org And the book that she published of her dissertation is at https://www.rutgersuniversitypress.org/walking-on-the-wild-side/9780813571881 Also on today was Rebecca James who, along with her son Brad, owns the Burke's Garden Hostel. You can check that out at https://www.burkesgardenhostel.com/ , though, check out this glorious drone pic of their place. Beautiful. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the Uni
Thu, October 13, 2022
Episode #343 - Andy Hood
Today's guest, Andy Hood, isn't a hiker. He's a runner, but the story of his recent journey parallels that of many long-distance hikers. It is his backstory that attracted my attention, as well as offering me a chance to introduce you all to a different hiking trail; in England, no less!! Andy talks movingly about wanting to do something to empathize with his mother's plight and, in going so, he finds out much about himself and others. He also tells us about an often overlooked part of self-care. You can find out more about Andy and his journey on his blog at http://www.runningwestwardho.co.uk/ . He also posted on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/runningwestwardho . If you'd like to learn more about the path itself as a potential hike, go to http://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/ . And, of course, to learn more about self-care for guys, head to http://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/testicular-cancer/how-to-check . A last minute guest this week, in our hostels section, was Dave, from Mountain Harbour Bed & Breakfast, in Roan Mountain. You can find out more about this top-notch hostel at their excellent website, at https://www.mountainharbour.info/ . If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. You can take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for
Thu, October 06, 2022
Episode #342 - Hunter Rud (Hunter)
We have another recent thru-hiker today. He is Hunter Rud and, when you hear his story, the Appalachian Trail wasn't on his radar until very recently. But, like many others before him, he became more absorbed by the prospect of hiking it the more he researched. It wasn't all sunshine and roses for Hunter when he was out there this year, yet the support and encouragement he received from his entire family–including the latest weather forecasts from his uncle–got him to his Katahdin moment. You'll be impressed by him, as I was. You can check out a couple of his pictures on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hunterrud3/ A new mid-section of the show for October will focus on hostels along the trail. This week, my friend, Dianne Seger, or Lady Di, talks to me about her decision to start a hostel in Damascus after her 2019 thru-hike. Her website is at https://www.ladydibnb.com/ If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, September 29, 2022
Episode #341 - Julieann Hartley (Squirt)
Julieann Hartley is today's guest. She hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2015 and transformed her life. She articulates this so beautifully in our conversation, and you may be a little confused about why we laugh so much while discussing difficult topics. Yet her positivity is what pulled her through both the hike and her subsequent life. Check her out at Instagram and TikTok, and even on Spotify at the links below. https://www.instagram.com/missjulieannmusic/ https://www.tiktok.com/@missjulieannmusic https://open.spotify.com/artist/0ckQrLoxKGRGQ5AfPPMflf We also hear how Dan Whitesides, or Trumpet, ended his AT hike with FrankE, his faithful companion. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, September 22, 2022
Episode #340 - TSX Challenge (Part 2)
This week, we have the second and concluding part of my recent 75 mile TSX Challenge hike in California, taking in Mt Whitney as its main highlight. As many of you know, I've often spoken of my inability to hike at altitude. In this hike, I discovered that it was more about my attitude than the altitude. We covered the first three days of the hike last week. Today, we've got contributions from other hikers, as well as my own experience of those last five days. It was epic!! You can learn more about this and other hikes at https://tsxchallenge.com/ If you're interested in coming to our upcoming Woods Hole Weekend in early October, check out the Woods Hole site at https://woodsholehostel.com/things-to-do/the-woods-hole-weekend/ and read about what we'll be covering over those three days. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, September 15, 2022
Episode #339 - TSX Challenge (Part 1)
As many of you know, I recently fulfilled a long-held ambition to climb Mt Whitney. While I was out on this group-led hike, I could reflect upon what it is to hike in such a wilderness and, on my return, I was eager to share it with you all. I rarely start editing until the day before my podcast is due to be published, but I've been thinking about this one for the past three days and trying to marshal my thoughts as best I can. What you'll hear are my honest reflections of the hike as well as input from most of my fellow hikers. I'm not trying to sell you on whether or not you should try one of these hikes; I'm just putting my thoughts out to you and sharing my experience with you. Take it as you will. You can learn more about this and other hikes at https://tsxchallenge.com/ If you're interested in coming to our upcoming Woods Hole Weekend in early October, check out the Woods Hole site at woodsholehostel.com and read about what we'll be covering over those three days. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, September 08, 2022
Episode #338 - Clay Bonnyman-Evans (Pony)
Our guest today is Clay Bonnyman-Evans, a friend of the show and a previous guest from our early days. Clay came onto the show in 2017 to talk about his 2016 Appalachian Trail thru-hike. Since then, he has racked up a bunch more miles and trails, so we caught up before I headed to hike in California. As always, Clay is witty, thoughtful, and open as we chat about his hiking. He is also an excellent writer, so you can check out his latest book "Adrift on the Pacific Crest Trail: A Thru-Hiking Story" at this link . We discuss what he means by "adrift," and he gives insight to the necessary separation that a thru-hike will cause in relationships. He has more books to check out, on his website, claybonnymanevans.com , and he has offered his email should you want to contact him about anything to do with hiking the great trails of America. You can reach him at claybonnyman@gmail.com . We catch up with Dan Whitesides, our last remaining Mighty Blue Class of 22 participant. As always, he's smiling through. If you're interested in coming to our upcoming Woods Hole Weekend in early October, check out the Woods Hole site at woodsholehostel.com and read about what we'll be covering over those three days. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now s
Thu, September 01, 2022
Episode #337 - Ryan Leighton (Ken Burns)
Ryan Leighton is our guest this week and, though not a thru-hiker, he has probably impacted more people with regard to long-distance hiking than many of our guests on the show. He produced a documentary movie–Walking Home–that followed the hike of a father and son duo, along with two other characters who intermittently entered the story. But Ryan has always been a thrill seeker, and he shares his fascinating story of climbing Katahdin in the winter, a negotiating Knife's Edge with a reluctant friend, and spending time working on a nineteenth century whaling ship. You'll really enjoy meeting him. As we said on the show, the documentary is free and available on YouTube, at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4TWPbBlf70 . It is so good and I hope that, if you haven't seen it, you give it a look. Our Mighty Blue Class of 2022 has been drastically reduced over the summer, and we lost another member this week. Dom Tammaro sustained a hike-ending injury that made him reluctantly quit his journey for the time being. He intends to get back on the trail next year. Our free-wheeling young member of the group, Dan Whitesides, or Trumpet, and his dog, FrankE, have had a fairly drama-free time–until this week, that is. Hear what's happened to Dan. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, August 25, 2022
Episode #336 - Kelly Thomas (Spotter)
I found Kelly Thomas, or Spotter through my rather unhealthy habit of cyber stalking the Appalachian Trail Facebook pages. She had just summited, and her proud Dad recorded that fact. I reached out to him and eventually spoke with Kelly. For me, her demographic, of a mid-30s female, was under-represented on the trail in past years, but I've noticed it growing in recent years. I wanted to talk with her about that. You can follow Kelly on her YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/UnboundCrow Today, we also speak with Katie Westling at the end of her successful hike of the Appalachian Trail. She hiked with a buddy of mine, Hugh Ickrath, from her last shelter, then met her family at the finish. Here is a picture that Hugh took of Katie with her daughter and her grandson as she "crossed the line" at the end. Marvelous!! Also today, an announcement of another podcast on the network. Paul Collins introduces the Hammock Hangers Podcast. I hope you give it a try. You can find it at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/ , along with all our other great shows. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three
Thu, August 18, 2022
Episode #335 - Ted Lovett (Bulldog)
Just a week before I head out to hike in California, and we have another "vintage" hiker to hear from today. Ted Lovett, or Bulldog, wanted to hike the AT and finish on his birthday. Being a precise, mission-driven military man, that's exactly what Ted did. He shares his story with us. He met people he wouldn't normally come across when he was out on the trail and delighted learning from all of them. He didn't always enjoy the hike, but he took something positive from it every day. At Katahdin, Ted was lucky enough to be joined by two of his daughters and achieve that epic summit with them. What a glorious moment that must have been. Also today, we catch up with Dan Whitesides and Katie Westling, both close to the end of their own epic journeys. Two things I mention on the show. 1. The Woods Hole Weekend, which is being held on October 6-9 at the iconic Woods Hole Hostel. Details of the weekend can be found on the Woods Hole website, at https://woodsholehostel.com/ . I've only just sent the details to Neville and her team, so it should be there sometime today (Thursday). 2. If you'd like to take the last spot on Chris Casado's TSX Challenge, hiking with Chris, me, a couple of our listeners plus a bunch of great companions, email Chris at chris@tsxchallenge.com . I hope to see one of you out there. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the Un
Thu, August 11, 2022
Episode #334 - Kevin Newsome (Reckless Abandon)
This week's guest, Kevin Newsome, completed his thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail a year ago. I'd briefly met him at Trail Days while he was on his hike (we had a picture taken together) and I saw him for the second time a few weeks ago, presenting to a local charitable group near my home. I loved his presentation style and got him to come on the show. He's a professional photographer so, as you'd expect, his Instagram and YouTube channels are worth checking out. You can find them here. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTWPiN81Eb6laUrzIMBoRXA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recklessabandon2021/ We're following the two ladies closest to the end of there hikes, with Sarah Landis and Katie Westling checking, with great news from both. Check out Sarah's soaking Katahdin pic. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, August 04, 2022
Episode #333 - Monica Aguilar (Moss)
Our guest today is Monica Aguilar. Monica has been putting in the miles for the past four years, having thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2018, then completing half of the PCT last year before she was forced to get off trail because of the fires. In between, she managed to fit in a bikepacking trip on the Great Divide Trail. But Monica's passion for adventure triggered another, more creative side of her. She started to draw and paint in her journal to record the sights she was seeing. When she returned home, she parlayed that hobby into a business. If you'd like to check out some of Monica's work, go to her website, http://www.chasingtrailsart.com/ or her Instagram page at http://www.instagram.com/chasingtrailsart . She also runs a podcast, which you can hear at https://shitoutdoorspod.com/ Katie and Sarah, so close to the end of their respective journeys, are back on the show this week. They share their experiences of the past week. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, July 28, 2022
Episode #332 - Nathan Echols
Nathan Echols recently completed a sub-70 day, supported, thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail. How he was able to even set foot on trail is an extraordinary story. Just two years ago, he suffered a cardiac arrest in his sleep. It was only the rapid response of his wife that saved his life. Yet Nathan had long wanted to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail and he resolved to get it done. He resumed his training AFTER open heart surgery and, since then, has racked up over 7800 training miles. With the help of his son, Derek, he put together a completely supported hike, with Derek meeting him every day at road crossings, logging roads etc. He even got off trail for several days when he fell on Moosilauke and injured his face (pictured below). Nathan's resilience is remarkable, and he wanted to tell his story to prove that, with a lot of determination, and a bit of luck, you can overcome most things in life. Katie and Sarah are getting to the end of their respective hikes, so we caught up with them both and will check in on them both as they approach the finish. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, July 21, 2022
Episode #331 - Arlette Laan (Apple Pie)
The remarkable Arlette Laan is this week's guest. Arlette recently completed the eleventh and final leg of her quest to hike all the National Scenic Trails, becoming the first woman to do so. She's not a super-honed athlete, she's a down-to-earth woman who knows her strengths and limitations, and hikes accordingly. When she's not hiking these long-distance trails, Arlette leads hikes in New Hampshire and has shared with us the epic photo below. If you'd like to connect with Arlette, you can check out her Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/arlette_laan/ We hear from two of our Mighty Blue Class of 22. This week, Dom Tammaro and Dan Whitesides have progress and pictures to report. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 Thanks also to Emanuel Bravo-Ramos for sending me this handmade hat to wear in the Sierras next month. Pretty classy, eh??!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, July 07, 2022
Episode #330 - Amber and Josh Niven (Dandelion and Still Don't)
Amber and Joshua Niven were next to me in the Author's Tent at Trail Days, and I asked them to come on the show when I heard their great stories of having separately hiked the AT before meeting one another at Trail Days. They have experienced the trail differently, so their book is a product and amalgamation of those experiences. It is a true coffee-table book that you can pick up and open anywhere; there'll always be something of interest to read, or to see. If you'd like to learn more about them and their book, you can find them on these sites. http://Www.discoveringtheat.com http://Www.joshuaniven.com http://Www.AmberAdamsNiven.com Also, if you're in the vicinity of Hot Springs on August 13, why not drop into Big Pillow Brewing to meet them at the official launch of their book? http://www.thru-at.com/events/launch%20party One of the members of our Class of 22 still heading north, Sarah "Sunny" Landis, has reached Vermont and continues to have a blast. We caught up with her at Manchester Center on a zero day. Katie Westling was on MacAfee Knob when I called her. Check out the photo she'll be looking at for the rest of her life. Epic!! George Steffanos has really been putting himself through it and, just when he was on the verge of quitting, he found the best medicine. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com /. You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network
Thu, June 30, 2022
Episode #329 - Emily Leonard (Black Bear)
I met Emily Leonard and her husband Bruce at the Author's Tent at Trail Days in Damascus early this year. Not only does Emily write about her AT hikes, but she also has terrific stories to share about them. Like me, she has completed two Appalachian Trail thru-hikes and has now written about the first one. She also produced a children's book that will introduce a whole new generation to the trail. Additionally, Emily was featured quite prominently in the AT documentary, Walking Home. You can check that out here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4TWPbBlf70 If you'd like to learn more about Emily and her adventures, or buy her books, visit her website at https://www.emilysescapades.com/ . You can also see all her books on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Emily-M-Leonard/e/B08JMCXGL3?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1656540614&sr=8-1 Follow Emily on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/emilysescapades/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Emily-M-Leonard-109205634573859 Also this week, we caught up with Dom Tammaro from the Mighty Blue Class of 2022. He has just finished the Virginia Triple Crown and sent me his pic at the iconic MacAfee Knob (below). And Katie Westling is approaching that Triple Crown. We heard from her as she was on her way to Pearisburg. Perhaps next week we'll have her MacAfee Knob pic. I also heard from George Steffanos this week, with the exciting news that he has documented his own 1983 AT thru-hike in pictures. I'll continue to share his website below but, in case you missed it, check out his awesome scanned slides from 40 years ago. You WON'T be disappointed. https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/places-i-ve-been If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this
Thu, June 23, 2022
Episode #328 - Kayla and Ken Bold (Nugs and Kenbo)
Father and daughter hiking partners, Kayla and Ken Bold, came to the Appalachian Trail with Ken originally intending to hike just a section in support of his daughter. As often happens, those plans changed, and they headed north together as a team. Each learned something about the other, with their familial bond strengthened along the way. You can follow Nugs on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kayla.bold/ Our two catch-ups this week are with Trumpet and his dog FrankE, as well as with Katie Westling, who is filling in the miles she missed in her thru-hike attempt last year. I mentioned our other shows on the podcast today, so here are the links you'll need to find each of them going forward. Mighty Blue: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-life-c/ Trail Dames: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/the-trail-dames-podcast/ Jester Section Hiker: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/jester-section-hiker/ Hiking Unfiltered: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/hiking-unfiltered/ Returning to Katahdin: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/returning-to-katahdin-an-appalachian-trail-dream/ JR Hikes the Appalachian Trail: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/jr-hikes-the-appalachian-trail/ Dixie LIVE on the Continental Dive Trail: https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/dixie-live-on-the-continental-divide-trail/ If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue,
Thu, June 16, 2022
Episode #327 - Jeff Hayes (Speedo)
This week, we have a first for the podcast. Initially, our principal guest, Jeff Hays, lays out his views on why the Southern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail should move to Alabama. As Jeff says, "Why not Alabama?" Then, Jeff and Nathan Wright debate the issue as they see it. They keep it respectful and agree far more than they disagree. At the end, I weigh in with my opinion. I hope you all learn something from this discussion. You can learn more about the issues at stake by visiting Jeff's site, where he promotes building an entirely new trail. It is at https://www.at2al.net/ Jeff also offers the following site, which argues for using existing trails. That is at https://at2al.com/ You can find Jeff's hostel at https://www.nextstephostel.net/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NextStepHostel/ In between Jeff's chat with me and the subsequent debate, I caught up with Katie Westling, as she has now returned to the AT to continue her quest to complete her thru-hike. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/. You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, June 09, 2022
Episode #326 - Ian and Eve Alderman (Our Spectrum Adventures)
Today, we have Ian Alderman on the show. Ian and his daughter, Eve, are hiking the entire length of Britain. While it isn't a super long hike, it is still over a thousand miles and there is very little in the way of a defined path. The West Highland Way WAS a path that made it a little easier for them and that's where I found them. What's remarkable about these two, though, is that both Ian and his daughter are autistic. Ian and his wife Sarah have determined that they don't intend for Eve to be handicapped by autism, so they are giving her an adventure that, in itself, is spawning other ideas for further adventures. You can check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ourspectrumadventures If you'd like to offer some support, you can do so here. https://www.gofundme.com/f/eve-and-ian-john-o-groats-to-lands-end Dom Tamarro has taken a few days off the trail to return home for a graduation, yet he's now past 500 miles and loving it. By the time you listen to today's show, he'll be back at it. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed
Thu, June 02, 2022
Episode #325 - Dennis Pack (Bookworm)
Dennis Pack is nearer my generation of hikers, and this week he shares the story of his 2021 flip flop. He's a great believer in serendipity and enjoyed the way in which things just "happen" out there on the trail. He has a well-grounded, gentle wisdom, some of which he learned on the trail, though much of it he clearly accumulated over his 60 years. His cousin had been diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia and, not knowing much about this, he learned what he could and shared it on the trail. If you'd like to read Dennis's journal, you can find it at https://www.trailjournals.com/journal/24090 You can also follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Hikingforlewy If you'd like to learn more about Lewy Body Dementia, check out these two links: https://www.lbda.org/ and https://dementiaspotlightfoundation.org Our Mighty Blue Class of 2022 is thinning out fairly rapidly, and this week, we hear the diverging fortunes of Sarah Landis and Brittaney Allvord. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, May 26, 2022
Episode #324 - Natisha Webb (Calypso)
Natisha Webb wrote to me recently about my West Highland Way trip, telling me she'd already booked to go on the same hike next year. We corresponded, and it turns out that she also thru-hiked the AT in 2021, having been "Covided" off in 2020. Naturally, I wanted her to tell her story, and she agreed to come on the show. As you'll hear, she is a pragmatic woman, making sensible decisions when decisions are required. If you'd like to learn more about Natisha and her hiking, and van, life, check out her Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/calypso_chronicles/ . Additionally, you can check out at her YouTube page at https://youtube.com/user/uglybarnicle We caught up with two of our Class of 2022 this week, neither of whom is actually on the trail right now! Katie Westling, who we followed in 2021, is heading back to the Appalachian Trail in early June to complete the last 500 or so miles of her hike. She tells us her plans. If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, May 19, 2022
Episode #323 - Nathan and Kimm Wright (Switchback and Crewhiker)
Today, we have Nathan and Kimm Wright, from the Pinhoti Outdoor Center. I met them both at Trail Days this past weekend, and we got into a discussion on the benefits–or otherwise–of relocating the Southern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail to Alabama, using the Pinhoti Trail to effect that change. This is a controversial subject that Nathan and Kimm are well-versed in. Indeed, Nimblewill Nomad, who was with the two of them at Trail Days, got particularly het up over the subject. We'll let you decide. Listen to the two of them, then read the article below by Nimblewill, and, if you're convinced, why not sign their petition on change.org? https://nimblewillnomad.com/2022/02/24/pt-bmt-at-let-em-be/ https://www.change.org/p/do-not-move-the-appalachian-trail-terminus They also talked about the Pinhoti Trail "Kick Off," later in the year. You can check that out at https://www.facebook.com/events/1437834616634802 Some of the surviving members of the Mighty Blue Class of 2022 report in, with Dom Tammaro and Dan Whitesides giving their progress reports. From an old friend of the show, JC Van Etten, or Catmando, I got a call yesterday morning and he sent me some spectacular pictures ofrom the summit of Mt Whitney. It was great to hear from me, as well as a reminder that I'll be pushing for Whitney later this year. Finally, the rest of the first chapter of George Steffanos's "Then the Hail Came." If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/. You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a
Thu, May 12, 2022
Episode #322 - Chris Veasey (Idaho Bones)
Our guest today is from the AT Class of 2017. His name is Chris Veasey, and we share an open chat about his experiences on the trail. He flip-flopped, heading north from Harpers Ferry to Katahdin, then south to Springer. His northern section was spent with a tramily, while he was largely solo in the south. We discuss the differences between both sections. Chris has written a book about his adventures and has put up a Kickstarter for those who would like to support his efforts to publish his book. You can support that here. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/readuncivilized/uncivilized He can also be found on social media at https://www.facebook.com/chris.veasey.9 and https://www.instagram.com/thats1ezvz/ We catch up with some of the surviving members of our Mighty Blue Class of 2022, with Sarah Landis loving her time on the trail. Kera, Ryan, and Brittaney–while definitely loving the trail–have experienced both the highs and lows of trail life. Finally, I'm reading the first part of George Steffanos's book, "Then The Hail Came." If you'd like to find out more about "Then The Hail Came," check out George's website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ . You can also find George's book on Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like
Thu, May 05, 2022
Episode #321 - Brian Anderson (The Tick Terminator)
This week, we have the aptly named Tick Terminator, otherwise known as Brian Anderson. Brian has had a fascination with ticks–and how to terminate them–for over ten years. He has advised companies on how to deal with their outdoor employees, suggesting best practice to keep them from contracting Lyme and other diseases. Today, he's offering advice to hikers and backpackers. He does this in a fun, informative way, and I think we hit all the important points. If you'd like to learn more, Brian's website is https://www.thetickterminator.com , while he can be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/lymetick/ We caught up with another two of our Mighty Blue Class of 22. This time, Dom Tammaro tells us of his rattle snake encounter AND his new trail name, while Joanne Birditt has eventually called a halt to her hike. Her smiling face on the show told me that it was the right decision. Finally today, we have the Prologue of our new book. This was formerly a blog post, and I recently received permission to read it from George Steffanos, the writer. You can read more about George and his book at his website at https://georgesteffanos.webador.com/ , as well as buy his book from Amazon at this link. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QFG4ZR6 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, April 28, 2022
Episode #320 - Mighty Blue on the West Highland Way
This week's show is all about my recent "saunter" on the West Highland Way in Scotland. As many of you know, I'd never hiked before I moved to the US, and I certainly didn't know about this little gem in Scotland. I'd originally intended to couple a quicker hike on the WHW with a similarly fast walk on Hadrian's Wall Path. However, as you'll hear, fate intervened, and I had one of my most satisfying hikes. I've also added a lot more pictures this week (corresponding with the day they were taken), because I didn't share many of them on Facebook or Instagram. For those of you who are interested, my itinerary was as follows: Day 1 - from Milngavie (Mile Zero) to Drymen Camping (Mile 11.0), an 11 mile day Day 2 - from Drymen Camping (Mile 11.0) to Balmaha (Mile 19.2), an 8.2 mile day Day 3 - from Balmaha (Mile 19.2) to Rowardennan (Mile 27.6), an 8.4 mile day Day 4 - from Rowardennan (Mile 27.6) to Inverarnan (Mile 41.5), a 13.9 mile day Day 5 - from Inverarnan (Mile 41.5) to Tyndrum (Mile 53.3), an 11.8 mile day Day 6 - from Tyndrum (Mile 53.3) to The Bridge of Orchy (Mile 60.3), a 7 mile day Day 7 - from The Bridge of Orchy (Mile 60.3) to Glencoe "Pods" (Mile 72.4), a 12.1 mile day Day 8 - fro
Thu, April 21, 2022
Episode #319 - Mighty Blue Class of 2022
Today, we catch up with ALL (available) members of the Mighty Blue Class of 2022. Having been away for more than five weeks, I've missed their starts–in many cases–and the suspension of their hikes–in a few cases. One thing that is apparent from these conversations is that nobody's experience is like any other hiker's experience. The conversations speak for themselves and, going forward, I want you all to know who we're following out there. Each of the interviews is time stamped to allow you to jump to your favorite. 1:50 - Dave Burge 15:52 - Chuck Hays 26:26 - Sarah Landis 36:57 - Hugh and Kerry Ickrath 52:30 - Daniel Whitesides 59:22 - Dom Tammaro 1:10:43 - Barry Hill - No pic 1:18:13 - Joanne Birditt - No pic 1:29:08 - Kera, Ryan, and Brittaney If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, April 14, 2022
Episode #318 - Traci Galyon (Reroute)
Our guest this week is Traci Galyon, or Reroute. Traci's evolution from irregular hiker to thru-hiker is interesting, in that it was her husband Don who was originally intending to hit the AT. Instead, Traci absorbed the information, found herself drawn in by the adventure, and eventually went alone on the trail. She plans to hike the PCT this year, WITH her husband Don, so we'll look out for that story later in the year. You can connect with Traci through Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/traci.marriedtodon , Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thereluctanthiker72/ , and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjGW87doU9H8XxouyOB1iXw Our final catch up with our Class of 2022 is with Sarah Fox. Sarah even discusses the possibility that she will leave her dog at home, depending upon how she perceives the trail to be. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, April 07, 2022
Episode #317 - Ken and Allie Dravis (The Praise Team)
Today's guests were known as the Praise Team on the trail, with the purpose of "spreading cheer" on the trail. As committed Christians, Ken and Allie Dravis saw their hike as an opportunity to encourage and learn about their fellow travelers, offering support and encouragement as they went along. Ken wrote a book following their hike, and that is to be released shortly. When I get back from the UK, I'll let you all have the link. Also today, Trumpet, or Dan Whitesides and his awesome dog, FrankE are getting ready to drive across country to Georgia and the beginning of their hike. They're doing a shakedown hike on the Bartram Trail first. I recorded Trumpet on March the 1st, so he'll be well on his way when you hear this. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com . If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, March 31, 2022
Episode #316 - Ken Good (PTL)
Ken Good is today's guest. Ken took the name PTL (or Praise the Lord) on the Appalachian Trail. If you followed Ken's YouTube channel–Bestill on the Trail–you'll know exactly why!! Ken is such a positive person, carrying and expressing his faith all the way to Katahdin, meeting people along the way who were happy to pray with him. You can check out Bestill on the Trail at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU6UNNbl5GM2KoTeOU-nhAQ . Our Mighty Blue Class of 2022 members this week are Kera, Ryan, and Brittaney. All three are looking forward to their impending trip, with a little apprehension thrown in for good measure! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, March 24, 2022
Episode #315 - J. Robert Harris (JR)
We have a wonderful story on the show today. J Robert Harris grew up in New York during the 1960s. His folks realized that the New York streets were no place for a young black man. JR was sent to the Catskills to join the Boy Scouts. The lessons he learned, and the things he saw gave him a new purpose in life to pursue knowledge and peace in the outdoors. Following a caribou migration, or turning up at an Inuit settlement, JR's natural curiosity has led him to many of the paths less travelled and he shares his wisdom and experience with Steve. His book, Way Out There: Adventures of a Wilderness Trekker, explores these themes. You can get it on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07658GMBW/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0 You can also follow JR on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jrobert.harris.7 , on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jrinthewilderness/ or on his website at https://www.jrinthewilderness.com/ We also caught up with Dom Tamarro, an unabashedly excited man who is soooo ready for his upcoming hike!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, March 17, 2022
Episode #314 - Bonita Curtner (Mother Goose)
I was introduced to Bonita Curtner, otherwise known as Mother Goose, by a listener. Bonita is something of an overachiever when it comes to racking up hiking miles. She is closing in on 50,000 miles. She also says the last 2,000 have been the toughest! We had a few tech difficulties getting recorded, but the story was worth the effort. Bonita didn't share any links or social media, but she shared her knowledge and wisdom, both of which are far more important. We also caught up with Chuck on his progress. He was at Hot Springs on March 8. Also, Hugh and Kerry Ickrath were about to head out on their platinum blazing trail! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, March 10, 2022
Episode #313 - Hope Westall (Everest)
Hope Westall is today's guest. Hope is the owner of Alt Route Meals, yet it is her hiking and her traveling that made me want to interview her on the show. But the meals are now a part of Hope's life, with a desire to mix her adventures with nutritionous, plant-based food that allows her to hike stronger and healthier. She has done the AT and PCT, several trails in Australia and New Zealand, as well as a summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Her hunger for these adventures pushed her into developing her own food and, finding the results suiting her, she expanded into a business. You can learn more about Hope and her products at https://altroutemeals.com/ as well as on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AltRouteMeals and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/altroutemeals/ Barry Hill and Dave Burge, from our Mighty Blue Class of 2022, give their last updates until I return in mid-April. Each has a cautionary tale to tell!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, March 03, 2022
Episode #312 - Shepard Smith (Soundscape)
Shep Smith, or Soundscape, had a particular mission when he was on the Appalachian Trail. As a former oceanographer, Shep chose to map the sounds of the trail. He shares a few insights today, along with stories from his hike. If this fascinating subject gets you as much as it did me, you can check out the interactive map that Shep refers to in our conversation. It is at https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/8839ac254aa2473a9f2d2947d48ce799 Also today, I caught up with Chuck Hays, now in the Smokies. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, February 24, 2022
Episode #311 - Lee Brackman (General Lee)
I have a wonderful reunion this week, with Lee Brackman, General Lee, from my Class of 2019. Lee and I ran into each other in Virginia and hiked around each other for a few days. Despite that brief time, we felt like firm friends, our nearly 50 year age difference notwithstanding. It was great to catch up. Lee is a pretty remarkable young man, having packed an awful lot of stuff into his 24 years, including both his long hikes, mission work in a Cholera Hospital, and Cancer Research at Vanderbilt. More recently, Lee hiked the CDT and started a new company, with a friend from Vanderbilt, producing clean water with electrolytes. Check it out at Purlyte.com . If you want to learn more, or even reconnect with him after your own hiking adventure, Lee is happy to share his email address. You can reach him at lcb21977@uga.edu We catch up with two of our Class of 2022 members. Joanne Birditt tells me that she is bringing forward her thru-hike a few weeks, while Sarah Sunshine Landis is going in the opposite direction, putting hers back a couple of weeks. None of this will matter when the two of them get out on the trail; it's always going to be there! Finally today, stick around and listen to the Ballad of Mighty Blue, written for me by Andy Alexander. I close out the show with it today, and am grateful indeed that our show has meant so much to people that they want to support in this way. I'm humbled. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, February 17, 2022
Episode #310 - Kelly Hays (9 Lives)
This week, another intrepid young woman shares her story with us. Kelly Hays, who has developed quite a following on YouTube, hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2021, yet hers was no ordinary hike. Emergency surgery for most people would take them off the trail for more than just a few weeks, yet Kelly was so desperate to get back with her trail family that she returned just three weeks after the surgery. Hear how she coped with this setback and how she experienced the trail in all its glory. Previous thru-hiker and guest, Stephanie "Sunshine" Lorenze even crowned at the end! You can catch up with Kelly at some of the following links YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfMHF8GPio8NAeP0loK1VmA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyhays23/ TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZM8GFd7Bu/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/KellyHaysHikes23 Dom Tammaro mentioned last week how he'll be carrying a bear canister, and I expressed an interest to see how he stows it on his pack. Looks good, Dom. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, February 10, 2022
Episode #309 - Grant Breidenbach (Detour)
Grant Breidenbach is our guest this week. Grant hiked the John Muir Trail in 2021, his longest backpacking trip to date. But, as you'll hear, his preparation and knowledge base is impressive from many perspectives. He is a consummate planner who considers the many factors that go into completing a long-distance hike. He also has some insights into the weather patterns in the Sierras that culminated in a huge storm on his second day. His telling of that story is riveting. Finally, Grant makes the case for bear canisters as a method of food storage to help protect bears. Grant suggests the following two Facebook sites as valuable resources for the JMT https://www.facebook.com/groups/JohnMuirTrail https://www.facebook.com/groups/2022jmt If you'd like to learn more about Grant's preparations for the trail, and his attention to detail, check out his excellent website, at https://grantbreidenbach.wixsite.com/grantphotography . There, you'll see his pack breakdown, his food details, and his itinerary, along with a link to his Instagram account. Also today, Dave Burge and Chuck Hayes–our first two Class of 2022 members–talk to me about their progress in the cold, early days of the year. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of my book offer (all three of my printed hiking books–with a personal message and signed by me–for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, February 03, 2022
Episode #308 - Will Henry (Teaberry)
This week, we have four guests on the show, with Will Henry leading the way. Will tells us about his 1994 Appalachian Trail thru-hike. He also talks about meeting Bill Irwin, the blind hiker who hiked a few years before Will with his dog, Orient. Bill not only befriended Will, but he also changed the course of Will's life and career path. It's truly amazing when you consider the reach of the Appalachian Trail and the people who walk along it. You can check out the work that Will does with guide dogs here. https://www.guidedogs.com/ He also sent a few pictures of himself in 1994. Check out his Katahdin picture and the one of him fording the Kennebec. Epic!! Considering Will's canine connection, it seems totally appropriate that the final member of our Class of 2022 is going with his own dog this year. Dan Whitesides, aka Trumpet, and his dog FrankE are heading out in early April. You can follow Dan and FrankE via Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/whitehuskyadventures/ Also today, we have another conversation with Chris Casado, from TSX adventures. Chris talks about his new NextGen Education Program, and you can find out more about that at https://tsxchallenge.com/nextgen/ . If you have an interest in this program or would like to help, or find out more, please email Chris at chris@tsxchallenge.com . Finally, Dom Tammaro is, to say the very least, as excited as he can be about his upcoming hike. Dom and Steve chatted about Dom's ongoing preparations, particularly focusing on his pack and choice of bear cannister. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider suppor
Thu, January 27, 2022
Episode #307 - Annmarie Noonan (Vista Seeker)
My guest today is Annmarie Noonan. Annmarie wrote to me recently to tell me about her passion for hiking the Appalachian Trail. Indeed, it was the words from her journal and her story of her own four-year section hike of the trail that convinced me she'd be an excellent guest. When we spoke, the enthusiasm was infectious and I think you'll enjoy our conversation. Also this week, one of the last members of our Class of 2022. I intended to get Dave Burge in December but, as these things go, I kind of dropped the ball. Picking it up now, we caught up with Dave well into his Appalachian Trail hike. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, January 20, 2022
Episode #306 - Steve Barbour (Trail Dust)
Steve Barbour is the Executive Director of the Sheltowee Trace Association, and our guest this week. Steve hiked the Appalachian Trail in the mid-2000s, and has nearly completed a second section thru-hike with just New Hampshire and Maine to go. But it is his work with the STA that especially interested me. We had an informative and fun conversation about this 340 plus-mile trail, as well as an explanation of an innovative way to promote the trail and introduce the novice hiker to it. If you'd like to learn more about the trail itself, you can go to http://www.sheltoweetrace.org/ , while you can learn more about the Hiker Challenge that we talk about at https://sheltoweetrace.org/hiker-challenge We also talked about the phenomenon of Steve Miles, which is discussed in depth at https://bookhiker.com/2020/02/27/scientific-observations-and-exploration-of-the-unexplained-phenomenon-of-steve-miles/?fbclid=IwAR3LVoWlAvIYzrby4IKKi6Pvir__CWyfN5-uxDxxg-m1WuIHX1bswlWAjtQ Our Class of 2022 continues to grow, with Hugh and Kerry Ickrath chatting with me today. I met Hugh on my 2019 hike when he kindly brought me trail magic, then I met both of them just over a year ago at our Woods Hole Weekend. As you'll hear, Hugh and Kerry are planning a rather unique experience. And then, the last chapter of Just Passin' Thru!! It may have taken me the entire book to give you the correct title but, in case you've been looking for it on Amazon, here's the link, https://www.amazon.com/Just-Passin-Thru-Appalachian-Unforgettable-ebook/dp/B004X19L84/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2ERSWZS2V7RJ8&keywords=just+passin%27+thru&qid=1642621367&s=digital-text&sprefix=just+passin%27+thru%2Cdigital-text%2C80&sr=1-1 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to se
Thu, January 13, 2022
Episode #305 - Garrett Tandy (Jive Turkey)
Garrett Tandy is this week's guest, a 2021 flip flopper who finished at Delaware Water Gap in October 2021. He has fresh memories that he shares in a wide-ranging conversation. Garrett is in his late 30s, which is a rarer demographic on the trail, and he did what he needed to do to hike the AT, making necessary changes and arrangements to fulfill his dream. You can find out more about Garrett on his Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/jive_turkey_hikes/ , where he has some pretty cool pictures that track his hike this year. For the first time, we have THREE Class of 2022 members, all hiking together this year. Kera, Brittaney, and Ryan explain why they're going out as a trio, and what got them to this place in their lives that made them want to attempt the trail. Kera and Brittaney have new Instagram pages if you'd like to follow them along the trail. Kera is at https://www.instagram.com/atfindingme2022/ , while Brittaney is at https://www.instagram.com/brkhikes22/ . Brittaney and Ryan also have a new YouTube page to follow as well. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRajFlOiVYrtL2UifkJsf9w There's a bit of a shock in Winton Porter's Passin' Thru this week, as one of our favorite characters turns out to be somebody we didn't actually know. It just goes to show; you can reinvent yourself along the trail. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $35, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, January 06, 2022
Episode #304 - Michael Dunford (Honeybun)
My guests normally get on the show through listener suggestions, but this week, I found Michael Dunford on Facebook. He received a remarkable letter from a grateful father, and it was Mike's reaction to that letter that made me want to reach out to him and invite him on the show. Our initial conversation, which I always try to do prior to recording, was illuminating in so many ways. Mike's path hasn't always been smooth, and he shares a visceral tale of dark days before he found what he wanted to do with his life. That path is now clearly fulfilling him. If you'd like to camp on Mike's farm, just email him at the number below and share YOUR appreciation for the kindnesses he offers. The letter that compelled me to invite Mike onto the podcast in the first place, is shown, with Mike's permission, below. Sarah Sunshine Landis is the latest member of our Class of 2022, proving herself to be quietly confident in her own ability to successfully complete the trail. We'll be catching up with Sarah as her hike progresses. Chuck Hayes, however, is the only one of this year's class who has started his hike. We caught up with him at Mountain Crossings, as he reflected those early days and his climb up Blood Mountain. Finally, Winton Porter's Passin' Thru is coming to a close, with just two chapters to the end. This week, we conclude Chapter 18, following the shock news of Jennifer's ex, John. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to buy all three of Steve's printed hiking books for $35, (including postage to anywhere in the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, December 30, 2021
Episode #303 - Sarah Robison (Serendipity)
Our guest today is Sarah Robison. As you'll hear, she is very reflective about the hike and how it came about, articulating clearly some of her thought processes along the way. Sarah has changed her life to suit the "new" person who came back from the trail. She is a Nurse Anesthetist, specializing in neurosurgery, and resigned from this position to hike the trail. The adventure had such an impact upon her that she has modified her lifestyle to accommodate less stress and allow more freedom in her life. You can connect with Sarah on her social media on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008918597579 , on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sarah_robison/ , on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIG08WkiF6pEC6eEESc3aLA , and on her website, which is at https://www.andtheniwalked.com/ I also spoke with a new member of the Class of 2022, Dom Tammaro. Dom and I had quite a laugh as he is preparing to head out to the trail in a few months. We'll be catching up with Dom before he goes. But Chuck Hayes is going to be one of the first 2022 hikers out there. Chuck plans to hit the trail and be at the top of Springer at midnight on December 31. I caught up with him after I saw a funny video he'd posted . You can see it here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwErtEzuvzU We could only get part of Chapter 18 of Winton Porter's Passin' Thru in today; plenty still happens! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, December 23, 2021
Episode #302 - Kyle Stranagan (Huck Finn)
We have another of the newly minted Class of 2021 thru-hikers today. Kyle Stranagan, or Huck Finn, was just as inexperienced as I was when he started his own AT thru-hike last year. Yet, a combination of grit, luck, and determination saw him at the top of the brown sign at Katahdin just a couple of months ago. Kyle is clearly still processing what happened to him and he shares what he's discovered so far. You can see Kyle's hike unfold on his YouTube channel, as he is now uploading his videos every few days. Check them out here. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5tMuoFsO66BZ5UfE8xq4Mg You can also see Kyle's Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/adventures_with_huck_finn/ Our newest member of the Class of 2022 is Joanne Birditt. Joanne has a refreshingly candid and relaxed attitude towards her upcoming hike, expecting to finish but not putting herself under pressure to do so. It's an attitude that should serve her well. Our book, Passin' Thru, by Winton Porter nears its conclusion today, with just a few more chapters to go. This week, we learn much more about the Samsonite Twins. Fell free to contact me with your suggestion for the next book I should read on the podcast. Email me at steve@hikingradionetwork.com and make your choice. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above. THIS OFFER EXPIRES 12/31/2021
Thu, December 16, 2021
Episode #301 - Reta Walton (Fire Goddess)
A few weeks ago, one of our recent guests, Shannon Shaver, connected me to today's guest, Reta Walton. Reta has wanted to hike the Appalachian Trail since she was 13, but, as often happens, life got in the way. This year, now retired, Reta took on her dream. She is an avid hiker, and the AT was everything she'd hoped it would be, even though she caught hypothermia on the way! Her passion and emotions come through vividly in this conversation, and I'm sure you'll find her inspiring. You can connect with Reta at Facebook,at https://www.facebook.com/reta.walton.9 at Instagram, at https://www.instagram.com/retawalton/ and on YouTube, at https://www.youtube.com/c/RetaWalton Barry Hill is this week's new member of the Class of 2022. You've already met Barry once on the show but, like Reta, his passion for his upcoming adventure comes across intensely. Finally, Winton Porter's Passin' Thru takes up one of Reta's themes; hypothermia. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above. THIS OFFER WILL BE GONE AFTER CHRISTMAS
Thu, December 09, 2021
Episode #300 - Life Lessons From the Trail
This week is our 300th episode, and we're doing something a little different, including minimal show notes!! Every guest we've had in the past has shared their impressions, their stories, and the lessons they've learned. For this special show, I've put together nine short conversations with people who've been on the show or who I've hiked with. I was asking for just one lesson they've picked up from the trail. Their different takes were illuminating. The conversations are with Tee Bird and Lighterknot, from my 2014 hike. Pony, who joined me on the podcast and on my 2019 thru-hike. Dixie, who I podcasted with as she took on the CDT in 2018, and who has become a friend of mine over the years. Then, there are my podcast colleagues on the network; Anna, Jester, and Courtney. Finally, we'll talk with my two hiking partners from 2019, Trigger and Cushy. When they've had their say, I give you a few thoughts of my own. I hope you enjoy this very different show.
Thu, December 02, 2021
Episode #299 - Shannon Finn (Joy)
Shannon Finn became Joy this year. I followed her on Facebook and appreciated her visceral writing, where she rarely held back if she had something to say, which was often! We've often remarked at the life-changing nature of a long-distance hike, and Joy has experienced this change in compelling ways. Not only did she lose weight through her hiking, she also found out who she was meant to be. Her story is inspiring. You can follow Joy on Facebook and Instagram at https://www.facebook.com/shannon.finn.33 https://www.instagram.com/alotofshannonigans/ Our second Class of 2022 member is Sarah Fox, who is going to Flip Flop from Harpers Ferry, taking her dog Marshall with her for part of the journey. Sarah's knowledge of dogs in the outdoors is extensive, as you can see at https://adventureswithmydogs.com/ We'll catch up with Sarah again as she prepares to head out. We also heard from Paul Collins, or Skunkape. Paul is one of the organizers of the Hangcon Gathering, in Florida this coming January. Jester and I will be attending, so I invited Paul to come on and fill us in on a few details. You can learn more at https://hangcon.com/ In Winton Porter's Passin' Thru, I resume Chapter 15 where I left off last time, with Winton lying in an exhausted heap at the top of Blood Mountain, having attempted his fastest run up there. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above. THIS OFFER ENDS AT THE END
Thu, November 25, 2021
Episode #298 - Gail Muller (Hot Mess Express)
This week's guest, Gail Muller, is another of those unlikely adventurers, whose story is a breathless tale of triumph against a debilitating illness and chronic pain. Gail reveled in the "normal" cuts, scrapes, bumps, and bruises of the Appalachian Trail, precisely because they weren't the chronic pain she'd been experiencing for 15 years. Returning home and basically housebound because of Covid, Gail wrote an inspiring tale about her journey to and on the trail. It is a love letter to the healing power of the wild outdoors and an incredible testament to the strength of the human spirit. You can follow Gail in multiple places, listed below, as well as buy her book, "Unlost" on Amazon. For American residents, go to https://www.amazon.com/Unlost-journey-self-discovery-healing-outdoors-ebook/dp/B094Y95W4B/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=unlost&qid=1637782248&sr=8-1 For our British friends, go to https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unlost-journey-self-discovery-healing-outdoors/dp/1909770671/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=unlost+gail+muller&qid=1632942605&sr=8-1 . Gail's links: Website and blog: https://gailmuller.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegailmuller and https://www.facebook.com/groups/260115428930125/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegailmuller/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GailMuller This week's middle section starts a new season of aspiring thru-hikers. Each week, we'll chat with somebody who has chosen 2022 as the year that they will put their life on hold and head to that winding footpath along America's Appalachian Mountains. We'll meet them over the next few months, then follow them–in whichever direction they are heading–and hopefully meet them again at the end of their 2200-mile journey. This week's guest is Chuck Hayes, who is plann
Thu, November 18, 2021
Episode #297 - Tom Sherry (Stellar)
Tom Sherry has been on a bit of a tear regarding long-distance hiking over the past few years. His hiking bio is growing quickly, and I took the opportunity to catch up with him after he breezed through the Appalachian Trail this year in 99 days. He even had time to attempt a revival of a meme within his family. The "Phoon" is a pose he used in all the best places!! Tom has some great advice to share with others, particularly with those planning their 2022 thru-hikes. He talks about gear, saving ounces, and what hiking does for him. You can check out some of Tom's hikes over at his Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/heavyteva/ Since Julie "Jester" Gayheart and I returned from our aborted attempt on the John Muir Trail, we've not really talked about it. This week, in our ad hoc "Middle section" of the show, we had that conversation. You may be surprised at what we say. Finally today, Winton Porter and his buddy, Billy, help a young man chart a different course when they help him deal with a snake. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, November 11, 2021
Episode #296 - Lisa P Parker (Tex)
This week's guest is another of those intrepid female hikers who follow their passion and find out what the world has in store for them. Lisa Parker has had a varied career, from teaching to the New York fashion scene before finally finding her own passion. She had started the Appalachian Trail in 2020 but got off the trail after more than 300 miles because of the Covid outbreak. She wanted the "full experience" and went back to Amicolola Falls to start from the beginning in 2021. If you'd like to follow more of Lisa's adventures, check out her YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcV21r0lsuRsBdSW_H5zHNg/featured We also introduce you to our newest podcaster on the network. Courtney Miller chats with Steve about her new show, which is coming to the network. It is Hiking Unfiltered and episodes will be available every first and third Monday of the month. Check out Courtney's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/HikingUnfiltered and make sure you check out her show when you're on our website, https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/ Finally today, Winton Porter hosts a big, boozy party at Mountain Crossings. Things go pretty much as you might expect!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, November 04, 2021
Episode #295 - Rebecca Brackbill (Savage)
When I went out to hike the AT in 2014, I met a breed of woman I'd hardly known existed. These were strong-willed, fiercely independent young women, many of who were vastly more impressive than a lot of the men I met out there. It has been a theme of the trail for this past decade. Women are hitting the AT, and other trails, with little or no backpacking experience and proving to be more than equal to the task. Rebecca Brackbill turned out to be one of those women this year. She turned up in 2020 with few overnights under her belt, yet, as you listen to her, you'll hear a steely determination to succeed, even though she considered quitting while in Shenandoah, of all places! Rebecca developed a habit of getting her picture taken doing a backbend at various spots on the trail, including one in front of the Katahdin sign, one on Mt Washington's cog railway, and even one on the top of Odie's bus! If you'd like to connect with Rebecca or follow her adventures, check her out on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/brackbill421/ With no Katie to catch up with this week, I brought back a friend of the show, JC Van Etten, or Catmando, to tell us about his observations on forming a tramily on the PCT after his epic experience with his tramily on the AT. Winton Porter's Passin' Though brings real life drama to Mountain Crossings, with a mystery boot. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing it to Mighty Blue Publishing, PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.
Thu, October 28, 2021
Episode #294 - Sarah J. Ellison (Sheepdog)
We have another section hiker on the show this week. I recently saw Sarah Ellison's awesome summit picture at the top of Katahdin, joyously capturing the end of a 16-year odyssey that started when, as a cop, she spoke to a young man camped behind a store in Roan Mountain. The whole concept of being a "thru-hiker" was alien to Sarah, yet the thought of hiking this trail never left her, and she made progress year after year. Along the way, she was able to cope with the grief of losing her mother, then formed a bond with a young hiker named Moose. I'm grateful to Moose's widow for allowing us to discuss this part of the journey. His picture is below. Sarah has hiked on and off with dogs, one of which is featured in her YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/user/sheepdog0059 Katie's seven and a half month hike came to an end this week, as she decided to wait until next year to complete the AT. We discuss all aspects of her trip in a longer than usual conversation. Winton Porter's Passin' Thru has served up a number of fascinating characters, though none more so than Minnesota Smith, who we get to meet in this week's reading. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, October 21, 2021
Episode #293 - Emanuel & Karen Bravo (Ema el Astronauta & Hungry Marmot)
Our shows come together each week with a kind of serendipitous whimsey. This week's guests, Emanuel and Karen Bravo, wrote to me to share how they had prepared for the Sierras and eventual climbing of Mt Whitney. Emanuel wanted to encourage me to go again and told me exactly how he did it and suggested I could be successful if I adopted his approach. I was intrigued, and invited both Emanuel and Karen on the show to share their story. As you'll hear, they are an adventurous couple, with Emanuel coming up with the crazy ideas and Karen making them work! The perfect hiking couple! If you'd like to see more of their journey, they have a YouTube movie that is in Spanish, but the spectacular scenery speaks for itself. Check that out at https://youtu.be/sTQqP0SXahc You can also follow them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ema_el_astronauta/ Katie is near the end of her AT journey–for this year. She's been out there for over seven months and feels that it is time to come home. The trail will still be there next year, and we're going to follow her all the way to the end. Winton Porter's Passin Thru' provides an emotional, touching conversation between Winton and a lady he names "Lorac." If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, October 14, 2021
Episode #292 - Lord Thomas Bouissaguet (Lord Tom)
You're going to love the story that today's guest is going to tell you. Lord Thomas Bouissaguet is part of a group of French visionaries whose ambition is to bring to reality nothing less than a French Appalachian Trail, now named Hexatrek. I first heard of this on Dixie's Facebook page and reached out to Lord Tom, who had his own, somewhat tenuous link to the Appalachian Trail. He'd tried to get here from Belgium in 2020, but was thwarted by Covid. Luckily, for Hexatrek, he went elsewhere and, along with others, came up with this idea. You can learn more about Tom and his buddies at https://en.hexatrek.com/ If you'd like to get involved, go to their crowd funding effort at https://fr.ulule.com/hexatrek/ While you can reach the short film that they've put together on their website, you can reach it directly at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BMdyCJNFWA If you'd like to contact them via social media, you can find Lord Tom at https://www.instagram.com/cartapouille/ and Hexatrek at https://www.instagram.com/hexatrek/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LHexatrek You can read Lord Tom's blog about his Croatian hike at https://www.outdoorjournal.com/featured/expedition/hiking-through-minefields-and-a-pandemic-in-uncharted-lands/ and hear him tell it at https://anchor.fm/cartapouille Katie has had to make some difficult decisions during her hike–as we all do–and this week she explains her latest and toughest decision so far. Winton Porter's Passin' Thru reveals the debt some hikers feel that they owe others when they find themselves on the emotional maelstrom that is the Appalachian Trail. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City C
Thu, October 07, 2021
Episode #291 - Shannon Shaver (Feather Blue)
I recently saw a bunch of hikers finish under a banner headline of "Warrior Expeditions," and I was drawn to a black and white summit picture of today's guest, Shannon Shaver. Shannon's hiking really started after she saw Martin Sheen in The Way, that terrific little movie that tells about a pilgrimage on the Camino De Santiago, in Spain. That lead to her own pilgrimage and an early attempt on the Appalachian Trail that was ended by Covid in 2020. But Shannon is nothing if not tenacious, starting all over again in 2021 back at Amicolola Falls, in Georgia. Her shakedown hike for the AT was the Superior Hiking Trail in Minnesota that prepared her well for the AT. But it was the support that she recieved from the Warrior Expeditions that really struck a chord with me. You can find out about them at https://warriorexpeditions.org/ while you can learn more about Shannon at her blog, https://shannonhikestheappalachiantrail2020.art.blog/ or her Instagram account at https://www.instagram.com/shavannin_blue/ Katie is in Vermont, having made a tough decision about New Hampshire. As you'll hear, it was probably the right decision at the right time. Finally today, it's Snow Day at Mountain Crossings, though the work continues through the fun. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. If you'd like to take advantage of Steve's Trail Days book offer (all three of his printed hiking books for $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address above.
Thu, September 30, 2021
Episode #290 - Deb Taylor and Danny Mooney (Sundial and FIIK)
We have a husband and wife section-hiking team on the show today. Deb Taylor and Danny Mooney have done Iron Man races, Triathlons, and Marathons for years, yet Covid cemented and grew a new love–backpacking on the Appalachian Trail. Deb and Danny share their insights and reflect upon the correlations they have found between hiking the trail and those other disciplines. You should also check out their AT journeys at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8hBpjbcE1Gil9GwPEb8s1Q/videos where, amongst other goodies, as we referred to in our conversation, Danny Mooney lives up to his name with the Cog Train in the Whites. You can also connect with Deb on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/coachdeb32/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/deb.taylor.984 The two pics below are from their Iron Man days. A spectator caught the two of them meeting up in the race, then grabbing a quick kiss. Katie is out of Maine and heading into the Presidential Range and New Hamphire. She reflects upon Maine and looks forward to this next great chapter in her adventure. Finally, we meet a couple of hikers who are reluctant to shed pounds from their packs in the famous Mountain Crossings shakedown. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us by mailing a check, payable to Mighty Blue Publishing, to PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received. Remember, I'm still offering my Trail Days deal on my books, so you can use the same address (above) to buy those directly from me.
Thu, September 23, 2021
Episode #289 - Chris Casado (The Commissioner)
Chris Casado was lucky enough to be taken on a hiking trip in the Sierras at the age of 14 by a teacher who became a good friend. Fast forward 25 or so years, and Chris and his teacher are offering the same trip–and other trips–to people of all different hiking abilities. Even Chris's children have shared the adventure. Given my love/hate relationship with the John Muir Trail (I love it, it hates me), talking with Chris opened my eyes to a possibility that I may still get to Mt Whitney one day. I think you'll be fascinated by both his story and the trips that he offers. They certainly stirred my imagination as soon as we started speaking. If you'd like to learn more about Chris and his operation, visit https://tsxchallenge.com/ You can also check out his free backpacking courses, which he's offering this fall, at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/tsx-challenge-7513511981 Katie was late to report in this week, with Mahoosuc Notch occupying her for much of the day. We finally caught up just in time for this week's episode. What an adventure she's having. Winton Porter's Passin' Thru continues to show the variety of people–and problems that passed through HIS life at Mountain Crossings. Please check out our sponsor's website, https://cedartrailgear.com/ and thanks to those of you who've either bought or are considering buying the Three-Point Multi Tool. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, September 16, 2021
Episode #288 - Christian Foster (Bear)
We rarely feature A.T. Southbounders on the show, but this week's guest is halfway through his SOBO hike of the Appalachian Trail. Christian Foster, or Bear, is an insightful young man, gaining much from his hike. We discuss not only the journey but also the impact of the trail upon his general well-being. Christian also introduces the perfect articulation of what it is we need on a long-distance hike. I'd never heard the words "cognitive flexibility" in conjunction with one another before, but his smart use of the expression sums up the essence of we all need to complete a hike of this nature. For somebody who'd never even heard of the Appalachian Trail a year ago, this recognition is extraordinary to me. The only social media that Christian shared with me is one from Snapchat. Not sure if this will work for you, but it seems to make me want to sign in and I don't have a Snapchat account!! https://www.snapchat.com/add/foster2326?share_id=NzgyNzJC&locale=en_US Katie checked in from the airport–in Florida!! She's heading back to Maine after a few days of R&R with her family. She's rarin' to go, again. We also had the chance to chat with Ryan McCormick, from Cedar Trail Gear–this month's sponsor! If you haven't checked it out yet, you can learn more at cedartrailgear.com. The picture below is of me with the 3-Point Multi Tool. Winton Porter and his family re-located to the freezing Georgia Mountains. Just how freezing, we find out today. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, September 09, 2021
Episode #287 - Person Irresponsible (P.I.)
For the Mighty Blue show, it's a bit of a first today. Our guest is Person Irresponsible, or PI, and she is as unlikely a hiker as you've ever met. Yet, with grit and determination–and the fact that she had nowhere else to go–PI managed to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail in Covid Year. It was lonely; she was inexperienced, and she shares how she used a program designed for something else to navigate her hike. It's a fascinating story. If you'd like to follow more of PI's adventure, and if you'd like to read more about her book, you can go to http://www.mlconaquad.com/ . You can also find her (still anonymous) on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/person.irresponsible.3 The book is also available on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Everything-You-Ever-Taught-Me-ebook/dp/B096FYV6J9/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30ZK3PG7JFE38&dchild=1&keywords=everything+you+ever+taught+me&qid=1631128862&s=digital-text&sprefix=everything+you+ever+taught%2Camazon-devices%2C184&sr=1-1 And don't forget, our sponsor for the month of September is Cedar Trail Gear, with their 3 Point Multi Tool. Make sure you check them out at https://cedartrailgear.com/ Katie and I chatted this week when she was halfway up Mt Avery in Maine on a beautiful Wednesday morning. Sounds idyllic, doesn't it? And Winton Porter's Passin' Thru gets onto the prickly subject of ultralight gear. He has a warning for the unprepared! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, September 02, 2021
Episode #286 - Eric Patterson (Wild)
In the show this week, we have one of those guys who has wanted to do the Appalachian Trail for pretty much his entire life. That kinship with the trail and the forest began when he got lost on a scout trip at the age of ten. Eric Patterson harbored the feeling of peace and comfort throughout his life and finally got to achieve his dream in 2020. He tells his story and the impact it has had on him. You can follow Eric on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/c/WILDONTHETRAIL/videos and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/wildonthetrail/ Katie and I caught up this week when she was sitting on top of a mountain in the 1000 Mile Wilderness. As it always does with thru-hikers, Maine is making a massive, positive impression upon her. In Winton Porter's Passin' Thru, Winton introduces us to another couple of unforgettable characters. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. And remember, you can always support what we're doing by buying one of my books. My 2014 thru-hike story is in two volumes; My Appalachian Trial I: Three Weddings and a Sabbatical My Appalachian Trial II: Creaking Geezer, Hidden Flagon Along with those two, Hiking the Appalachian trail is Easy: Especially if You've Never Hiked Before can all be checked out on Amazon and at my author website https://steveadamsauthor.com/ . All support, in whatever form, is gratefully received.
Thu, August 26, 2021
Episode #285 - Daniel Winsor (Beta)
Today's guest, Daniel Winsor, will make you wonder for his sanity, then marvel at his tenacity. He decided that a hike through the Sierras in snow would be a challenge not to be missed, so set himself up for precisely that–in a heavy snow year. Daniel shares his somewhat shaky preparations with us, then chronicles his journey, making it through about 400 miles of snowy trail. He wrote a book–named "Crunch"–about his experience and you can check it out at https://amzn.to/2V4l2E3 You can also follow Daniel on his social media accounts at https://www.facebook.com/hikerbeta and https://www.instagram.com/hikerbeta/ or check out his website at http://hikerbeta.com/ While you're there, you can check out my books about my 2014 thru-hike at https://www.amazon.com/Steve-Adams/e/B01IP8ZVFW?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1629924020&sr=8-1 If you prefer, you can buy the printed versions from me at steveadamsauthor.com ; I'll even sign them for you if you'd like. Katie made it up Katahdin and to the fabled brown sign. It was every bit as good as it looks here!! In the show, I also mentioned the upcoming "Woods Hole Weekend," where you can prepare for your 2022 thru-hike with experienced hikers in the idyllic surroundings of the gorgeous Woods Hole with the enchanting Neville Harris. Check it out here. https://woodsholehostel.com/things-to-do/the-woods-hole-weekend/ Finally today, Chapter 2 of "Just Passin' Thru" introduces us to a guy with a serious snake bite and a woman with a serious potty mouth!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com If you prefer NOT to use PayPal, you can now support us via check by mailing to us at PO Box 6161, Sun City Center, FL 35751. Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, August 19, 2021
Episode #284 - Josh, Cassie & Harvey Sutton (Hot Hands, Straps, and Little Man)
Another stellar story for you all this week. Josh and Cassie Sutton started a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail back in the middle of January 2021. Apart from the early start, that wouldn't have been especially noteworthy–other than that they hiked with their four-year-old son, Harvey, or Little Man! What happened over the next seven months is a story of determination, patience, games, and a little bit of arm-twisting to get permission for Harvey to climb Katahdin–which he did last Monday, August 9. If you'd like to watch more of the Sutton story, you can follow their YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUAfUef5Cy3n4ujPE5JDQ1w and their Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/livesutton/ We catch up with Katie, having "abandoned" her for about a month. I'm delighted to be able to report that she's alive and thriving!! I also start a new book this week, with Winton Porter's "Just Passin' Thru." I hope that you all enjoy it. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, August 12, 2021
Episode #283 - Jesse Cody (The Boston Mule)
Jesse Cody had never hiked until he read Bill Bryson's book, "A Walk in the Woods." Something within the book spoke to him, and he saw a thru-hike as a way forward from some of his mental health issues. The result was a revelation, and Jesse devoted his days to helping others with some of the same issues. We spoke last week with Randi Silverman of the Youth Mental Health Project and Jesse is supporting that charity by raising money on the PCT. Jesse's website, https://hikethegoodhike.com/ , brings awareness and information on mental health to hikers everywhere. The man is truly on a mission.. On the home page of the site, Jesse says "My feet have carried me over roughly 7500 miles of trails throughout the United States, and now I’m sharing my journey to bring awareness to mental health through wilderness exploration." You can follow Jesse on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hikethegoodhike/ and on Facebook at ps://www.facebook.com/hikethegoodhike and https://www.facebook.com/jesse.cody.77 If you'd like to make a monetary donation to his hike, then you can click on this link. https://ymhproject.networkforgood.com/projects/133134-walking-and-talking-for-youth-mental-health If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, August 05, 2021
Episode #282 - Randi Silverman (Founder of the Youth Mental Health Project)
This week's guest is Randi Silverman, the founder of the youth Mental Health Project. I think I can do no better than to replicate the notes that Randi sent me when I asked her about the information and Jesse Cody's hike. The Youth Mental Health Project The Youth Mental Health Project is a nonprofit 501(C)(3) organization that seeks to educate, empower, and support families and communities to better understand and care for the mental health of our youth. We believe that: • Mental health lies on a continuum and includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. • A healthy mind is as important to a child’s development as a healthy body. • In order to address the devastating consequences of the current mental health crisis, early intervention and prevention must become the norm. We believe every child’s mental well-being needs to be nurtured, and that mental wellness and physical wellness should be equally prioritized. By equipping communities with tools to facilitate open and honest dialogue, providing educational materials that promote mental health literacy, and supporting families who are struggling, The Youth Mental Health Project is at the forefront of creating lasting change. WHAT WE DO: SUPPORT: The Parent Support Network is a parent-driven, family focused program that provides parents who are concerned about their children’s mental health with a dependable and caring network, valuable peer support, and access to peer recommended resources in their local communities. EVENTS: We help create events that spark positive dialogue and bring the subject of youth mental health to life in a way that is compelling, inspiring, and informative. FILM SCREENINGS: We foster community dialogue through community screenings of the award-winning film, No Letting Go . Speakers and materials are available to help facilitate post-screening discussions. EDUCATION: In addition to our Fact Sheet series, our Understanding Youth Mental Health booklet, created in partnership with Silver Hill Hospital and our Understanding Youth Mental Health: Questions Parents Frequently Ask guidebook, created in partnership with Child Guidance Mid-Fairfield County, are great tools for those who want to learn more. ABOUT JESSE CODY: Jesse Cody is the wilderness explorer behind “Hike the Good Hike.” His missi
Thu, July 29, 2021
Episode #281 - Richie Holbrook (Walks With Donor)
About ten years ago, you would never have guessed that Richie Holbrook would be taking on the Appalachian Trail. He was in a wheelchair, on oxygen, and with a hopeless pair of lungs. A transplant turned out to be his life-saver. This year, he was able to get on the trail and begin his journey to Katahdin. His remarkable story is a testimony to not only grit and determination, but also the unwitting gesture of an anonymous person who chose to be an organ donor. Richie's journey is a legacy for that person and he is trying to spread awareness of the need to opt in to organ donation, rather than the more obvious solution of requiring people to opt out. That one change would make a huge difference in the pool of potential organ donors. If you've never thought of this issue before, Richie will open your eyes today. You can find out more about organ donation at http://organdonor.gov/ , while Richie can be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/richard.holbrook.1656 and on YouTube at https://youtube.com/channel/UCv8U1Iuo33Vue69NoQc_saA If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, July 22, 2021
Episode #280 - Vince and Monica Strawbridge (Strawbridge Treks)
Today is the first of four shorter shows, with just one main interview and a few words of commentary from me. With a bit of luck, I'll be out on the John Muir Trail as you're listening to me and my guests. Our guests today are Vince and Monica Strawbridge who, along with their four children and a friend, have recently completed the Appalachian Trail. For the Strawbridges, it was the culmination of their family Triple Crown. This remarkable feat was achieved over a few years as the family responded to the hard times of the financial crisis by getting out on trails and realizing that their kids not only took to the lifestyle, but actually thrived out there. The family maintained a YouTube and Instagram account as they completed their hikes. You can visit them here. https://www.youtube.com/strawbridgetreksfamily https://www.instagram.com/strawbridgetreks/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, July 15, 2021
Episode #279 - Gretchen Pardon (Braids)
We return to the world of YouTube this week, with another interview of a woman who successfully thru-hiked the trail and recorded her experiences along the way. Gretchen Pardon shared her joys, and her sorrows. So, when we spoke, I always knew we'd get to talk about her depression and anxiety. Her sunny disposition masks an inner strength and occasional anxiety that she faces. It was important to Gretchen that she was able to share this part of herself. If you'd like to connect with Braids or see some of her adventures, she can be found on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/c/HikingwithBraids/ , on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hikingwithbraids/ , and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/hikingwithbraids Katie has returned home for a family birthday, so this week we took the chance to reflect on her first third of the trail. When we next hear from her, I'll be back from the JMT, so I look forward to catching up with her then. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, July 08, 2021
Episode #278 - Jessica Mills (Dixie) and MarDe Brooks
This week, let's welcome a newly minted thru-hiking couple to the show. Jessica Mills (Dixie) and her partner, MarDe Brooks, recently completed the Florida Trail, wading through swamps, bugs, gators and hot weather along the way. Jessica has been on the show before, but I was particularly interested in the dynamic between the two of them as they faced the test of a thru-hike. With the hike now in their rearview mirror, Jessica decided to repay MarDe's gesture of hiking with her by joining him where he is the most comfortable–on stage, singing at a festival. You can hear that here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKU1t6zQDpk If you want to see and hear more of Jessica and MarDe, check out the links below. MarDe Brooks Social Media Links •YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyygaT4mrVUfF7UC6pGgF-w •Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7txM1hlPgJt6CGJosCgPgA •Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MarDeBrooksMusic •Instagram: www.Instagram.com/MarDeBrooksMusic •Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/MarDeBrooks/posts Website: www.MarDeBrooks.com Jessica “Dixie” Mills Social Media Links •YouTube: www.YouTube.com/c/HomemadeWanderlust •Facebook: www.Facebook.com/HomemadeWanderlust •Instagram: www.Instagram.com/HomemadeWanderlust •Patreon: www.patreon.com/HomemadeWanderlust Katie has reached the rocks of Pennsylvania and is coping well with them. She catches us up with her progress over the past week. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com
Thu, July 01, 2021
Episode #277 - Michael Sisemore (Sy)
This week, our guest is Michael Sisemore, better known as Sy. As many people do, Michael hiked the Appalachian Trail when he was at a real crossroads in his life. He had no idea what he'd be doing after the trail but allowed himself the luxury of being open to all possibilities. The transformation that came his way was seismic, with the effects reverberating down the years nearly a quarter of a century later. Michael found a life that worked for him, and has now written a book that talks of those changes, as well as the meeting and very close friendship with a true trail legend. His story is fascinating. You can read some great excerpts from the book at http://www.intherealworldihike.com/ and follow Sy on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/at99sy/ If you'd like to buy his book, you can find it on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B094CXWV11?pf_rd_r=A7B6KASNTC21KNPFRT1S&pf_rd_p=5ae2c7f8-e0c6-4f35-9071-dc3240e894a8&pd_rd_r=999176fe-f691-46ad-9b35-439412a22d99&pd_rd_w=MNzIJ&pd_rd_wg=qwQaX&ref_=pd_gw_unk Katie has been putting in the miles this week, having eased herself back into her hike after her unfortunate injury. She also passed a special milestone. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, June 24, 2021
Episode #276 - Steve Nota (Dingo)
This week on the show, we go back to the 'normal" format, with me, Mighty Blue, at the microphone. Ryan is passing back the show having successfully steered it for the past three months. I am eternally grateful for the effort Ryan put into the show and hope to have him back behind the mic from time to time. Today's guest is Steve Nota, a Bostonian relocated to Australia. Steve shares his story about hiking as a youngster, then moving to Australia and hiking "tracks" out there. He will attempt to realize a burning ambition to hike the Appalachian Trail in 2022. As you can see from the pictures, the Aussie "tracks" provide the hiker with some glorious views. Katie Westling has settled more into her hike and crossed two state borders this past week. Her progress is measured, but our listeners continue to support her in her journey, with two "Angels" helping her through Pennsylvania. Now that I'm back in my recording seat, please let me know of any guests you'd like me to speak with by emailing me at steve@hikingradionetwork.com . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, June 17, 2021
Episode #275 - Lisa Speas (Conundrum)
Lisa Speas or "Conundrum" has been long-distance backpacking for many years traversing a variety of trails, the longest of which being the Appalachian Trail. Her AT journey was anything but typical and even included flatlining in the emergency room. Lisa and Ryan discuss her journey on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath, and the Great Allegheny Passage. She also shares her experience and advice for women hikers over 50 and how her backpacking style has evolved over the years. Katie Westling is out of the Shennies at last!! The knee continues to improve, and she is past the Roller coaster. All in all, a week of success, including her picture at the ATC in Harpers Ferry. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, June 10, 2021
Episode #274 - Kera Passante and Bill Welch (Sunny and Always)
We've got a couple of overachievers on the show today. Kera and Bill decided that an Appalachian Trail thru-hike wasn't sufficient to scratch their adventure itch, so they went straight from their 2200-mile walk to a 5000-mile bike trip, crossing the country from Bar Harbor to San Diego–taking a fairly circuitous route, it must be said! The two of them had such a blast on the trail–and this was in 2020, Covid Year–that they regarded their journey as not a case of stepping away from their previous lives but more towards their future lives. Going forward, Kera and Bill will be sharing their knowledge of the trail, plus their knowledge of bikepacking, so I urge you to visit their various social media sites below, as well as look out for their website coming soon. Always & Sunny on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlwaysSunnyAT Always & Sunny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Always_Sunny_AT/ Our Website (coming soon): https://www.adventurememories.life/ Katie has been learning valuable lessons on the trail, but her hike is back on and she shares with Steve her last few days in Shenandoah, with reflections upon those lessons. At last, we've come to the concluding chapter of Larry Luxenburg's Walking the Appalachian Trail, with Larry summing up the trail afterlife so beautifully and so topically, even though this was written nearly 30 years ago. Some things on the trail never change. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, June 03, 2021
Episode #273 - M.J. Eberhart (Nimblewill Nomad)
On a beautiful day in the Grayson Highlands, Ryan hikes and sits down with Nimblewill Nomad for a follow-up interview from the last time they spoke on the trail. Nimblewill is over 900 total miles in since leaving Flagg Mountain, Alabama, earlier this year. He is attempting to set a record by thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail at 83 years old. His hike this season has drawn the attention of many in the trail community and all are rooting for his success. Hike on Nimblewill! https://nimblewillnomad.com/ Email Ryan: ryanh620@gmail.com Katie continues her tentative on-trail rehab. She is still in Shenandoah National Park and gradually increasing the pressure on her knee. Steve and Katie discuss her plans to increase both the weight that she's carrying as well as the number of miles she is doing. As always, her determined spirit shines through. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, May 27, 2021
Episode #272 - Jamey Mossengren (Big Red)
While you listen to this, our guest today, Jamey Mossengren, is out on the Pacific Crest Trail with his buddies, The Minnesota Hikings. Jamey and I talk about his 2019 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail and his remarkable mode of transport on the Colorado Trail, amongst others. Despite our laughs, I was struck how Jamey and his mates were enjoying the trail and taking their time. This is probably why a bunch of younger guys didn't catch and pass this older guy in 2019! He has some wonderful stories to tell and even tries out a new name for Trail Magic. Let me know what you think; it may catch on! If you'd like to catch up with the Minnesota Hikings, check out their various social media sites below. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mnhikings Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MNHikings YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdpLKNHTlR-G9D1KqNT_fag/playlists Also, if you'd like to know what it's like to be a real life unicorn, check out Jamey's personal sites. Blog: https://www.uniproshow.com/apps/blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheUnicyclingUnicorn YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnicyclingUnicorn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_unicycling_unicorn Katie is easing her way back into fitness by doing short days on her way through Shenandoah National Park. The great news is that she's currently feeling no pain. Let's hope it continues. In Larry Luxenburg's book, Walking the Appalachian Trail, Larry and his guests have reached Baxter State Park and Katahdin. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gr
Thu, May 20, 2021
Episode #271 - Steve Adams (Mighty Blue) at Trail Days
It was Trail Days in Damascus this past weekend, and Ryan took to opportunity to chat with Steve about the event itself, his books, and his upcoming plans for the JMT. With Steve on his mini-sabbatical, Ryan is choosing the topics he wants to cover on the show and decided that putting a bit of a spotlight on Steve's books would open them to a new audience. If you'd like to see more about the books and to buy them, you can check them out at https://steveadamsauthor.com/ Remember, you can get a free copy of his short AT primer as an ebook from that site. Katie is back on the trail. This time, she is carefully reinserting herself onto the trail, starting in Shenandoah and hoping that her leg continues to heal. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, May 13, 2021
Episode #270 - Jim Harrison
Jim Harrison serves as the Director of Outdoor Programs at Emory and Henry College, where he created and oversees the Semester-A-Trail program. The only one of its kind in the country, this program allows students to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail while enrolled in courses tailored to their experience. Jim was shaped by his 1997 southbound AT thru-hike and now mentors students as they pursue their own long-distance backpacking dreams. He resides in Damascus, Virginia with his family and is also an English faculty member at the college. Semester-A-Trail: https://www.ehc.edu/outdoor-program/semester-atrail/ Ryan's email: ryanh620@gmail.com Don't forget. If you're coming along to Trail Days this weekend, drop in and see Steve at the author's section to say hi! You can check out his books at steveadamsauthor.com Also this week, Steve is still looking for members of Mighty Blue's Tramily to help raise money for Parenting Matters, a wonderful parenting education agency here on Florida's Gulf Coast. Check that out at https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Bradenton/10000Stepsfor10000Families I hope to welcome some of you to my team. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, May 06, 2021
Episode #269 - Will Campbell (Guano Man) on Trail Electronics
Will Campbell "Guano Man" joins the show this week as the first "subject matter expert" to discuss electronics and technology on the trail. With his electrical engineering background, we discuss batteries, cell phone systems, and chargers, all while considering the unique needs and challenges of the trail. Guthook Articles: https://atlasguides.com/blog/tech-on-trail-archive/ Questions for Ryan or Will? Email ryanh620@gmail.com Ryan referred to a coverage app. You can check that out here. http://www.twostepsbeyond.com/apps/ I also mentioned my new author website. Check it out at https://steveadamsauthor.com/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, April 29, 2021
Episode #268 - Lisa and Gordon Simmons (The Hostel Around the Bend)
Lisa and Gordon Simmons are the proud owners of Hostel Around the Bend in Hiawassee, Georgia. The hostel is just half a mile from Dick's Creek Gap (AT Mile 69.2) and this is their first season fully open. We discuss the experience of running a hostel, how the year has gone for them, and even share some advice for hikers. If you'd like to stay at Hostel Around the Bend or get in touch with them, their information is below: https://www.hostelaroundthebend.com/ 7675 Hwy 76 E Hiawassee, GA 30546 Phone: (706) 389-9668 Email: stay@hostelaroundthebend.com Katie, or Phoenix, has been having a tough few weeks and has come to a decision that changes her AT plans. That said, as always, she looks on the bright side. If you'd like to support the Virtual Walk, 10,000 Steps for 10,000 Families, click on the link below to walk virtually with Steve, in Mighty Blue's Tramily. Thanks for all the support. https://runsignup.com/RaceGroups/109424 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, April 22, 2021
Episode #267 - Sarah Jane Hatfield (Pringles)
For my show this month, I've returned to the Class of 2019 and a woman I met quite early on. Sarah Jane Hatfield was an outwardly confident hiker, with a YouTube channel and blog for a local newspaper, chronicling her way north. However, that wasn't at all how she felt in those early days. Her fascinating story is punctuated with a birth (her daughter's, not hers), a traumatic injury, a romance, and ultimate satisfaction on top of Katahdin. Sarah emerges from her experience even stronger than the woman she initially presented. Her story is another of those that fall under the category of "beware of what you wish for." In Sarah's case, the transformation was totally positive. You can follow Sarah's YouTube channel and blog by clicking on the links below. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_pOpiIJZEbb6b8EKDHj6bA https://www.themountaineer.com/search/?l=25&sort=relevance&f=html&t=article%2Cvideo%2Cyoutube%2Ccollection&app=editorial&nsa=eedition&q=georgia+to+maine+with+sarah+jane Katie has had another tough week, with a nagging ankle injury teaching her a significant lesson. Nevertheless, she soldiers on and heads out again this Thursday. I spoke today about my new Author page. You can find it at https://steveadamsauthor.com/ With a bit of luck, it should be live on Thursday morning!! Check out the intended covers of my next hiking books below. NOTE!! These are NOT written yet. These were designed by a previous podcast guest, Jessie Crawford. You can see more of her great design work at https://jessiecrawford.com/ Larry Luxenburg's Walking the Appalachian Trail distills trail wisdom that is still relevant 30 years after it was written. We're coming to the end of this book. I hope you've enjoyed getting this glimpse into our hiking forefathers. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and wa
Thu, April 15, 2021
Episode #266 - NC Trail Interviews (Nimblewill Nomad and more!!!)
The show this week features interviews from four hikers who Ryan was able to meet with at Rock Gap in North Carolina, mile 105.8 on the Appalachian Trail. All four interviews offer different perspectives, and each has a unique story to share about their hike. This is Gandalf. By complete luck, he crossed paths with Nimblewill Nomad, and got to chat with a real legend in the long-distance hiking world. Nimblewill started his AT hike in Flagg Moutain, Alabama and has already completed the Pinhoti Trail and the Benton MacKaye Trail connecting to the AT at Springer. When Nimblewill reaches Katahdin this season, he will be the oldest person to complete the AT at 83 years old. Check out his website and blog here: https://nimblewillnomad.com/ Perry's Photography Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perrywintersphotography/ Check out Perry's prints here: https://perrywinters.smugmug.com/ Ryan's email: ryanh620@gmail.com Steve caught up with Katie once more as she nears the 300-mile mark. A rest in Hot Springs will be just what she needs. Steve also shared details about his virtual walk to support Parenting Matters. If you'd like to join Mighty Blue's Tramily, just click here. https://runsignup.com/RaceGroups/109424 If you'd just like to walk yourself or start your own team, click here. https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Bradenton/10000Stepsfor10000Families You can check out Parenting Matters at https://parentingmattersfl.org/ The new Parenting Matters Podcast is here. https://parentingmattersfl.org/podcast/ Please share the podcast if you know any parents or families who may benefit. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, April 08, 2021
Episode #265 - Zach Hoopes (Relish)
Originally from Virginia, Zach Hoops has gone all-in with long-distance and ultralight backpacking. After discovering his love for hiking and honing his craft on sections of the AT, he went on to complete the Pacific Crest Trail Southbound in just over one hundred days. In addition to this major accomplishment, he has traversed several other lesser-known trails spanning from Arkansas to the Sierra High Route. He has compiled all of his own research into some very useful trail guides that can be found on his website. Zach also shares what he has learned from embracing the ultralight style and focusing on big mile days. Check out Zach's information-packed website here: https://relishhikes.com/ Zach's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8roAF3r-fi5PxLQaW3ZwWA/featured Also in this week's show, Steve shared news of a Virtual Walk on behalf of Parenting Matters, in Bradenton. You can sign up to be a member of Mighty Blue's Tramily at https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Bradenton/10000Stepsfor10000Families Additionally, Steve mentioned a podcast you may wish to share with families you know. You can find that at https://parentingmattersfl.org/podcast/ and anywhere else you listen to podcasts. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, April 01, 2021
Episode #264 - Cass Bridges (Nova)
Cass Bridges hails from North Georgia and spent a few seasons working at the historic Mountain Crossings before taking on a thru-hike attempt of her own in 2020. Her journey included two months of isolation since she had a start date of February 1st (!) combined with a more brutal than usual winter. However, the second half of her hike included a hugely impactful trail family that made the experience even more memorable. Nova is wise beyond her years and made the most out of her Appalachian Trail thru-hike by reflecting and growing every step of the way. Check out Nova's Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/kassdeey/ As Ryan said in the show, he welcomes emails with comments about the podcast and other ideas you may have for him. He's at ryanh620@gmail.com . Katie Westling is in NOC, with the weather and her second Covid vaccination slowing her down a little. But she's in good spirits and will be doing that long climb out of the NOC, while many of you are listening to this. Best of luck with that one, Katie! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, March 25, 2021
Episode #263 - Zach Nagy (Just Awesome)
Zach Nagy was introduced to hiking and car camping as a kid but a life in the rock business–working with Joan Jett–took him down another path until he met a woman from CT who reintroduced him to trails and revived those earlier memories. His hike of the PCT was transformative, with the community on that trail an unexpected highlight and delight. Now clean, he shares the dark days and the camping nights of his life with a fresh enthusiasm. If you'd like to follow Zach on his upcoming CDT thru-hike, as well as his other adventures, check out his YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8CaiumFMxCXZ6fgIEVvJHg As Zach mentioned in our conversation, he is a passionate advocate for Hike For Mental Health, and his fundraiser for the CDT supports that charity. You can check that out here. https://www.hikeformentalhealth.org/hikers/just-awesome-hikes-the-cdt/ Katie's truncated start of the Appalachian Trail is about to be truncated once more, as she heads back home for her second Covid shot. We caught up after she'd experienced some of the trail's notorious Georgia weather. Larry Luxenburg's Walking the Appalachian Trail introduces us to a variety of animals on the AT, in particular, Ziggy, the hiking cat! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, March 18, 2021
Episode #262 - Rue Mckenrick
Self-described "Complete Nature Boy," Rue McKenrick is today's guest. He takes us on a journey around the American Perimeter Trail. It was Rue's vision that spawned the idea and he is the one who is driving it forward. He is soon to return to the trail after an absence of six months. When he left it for a break–in October 2020–he had been out on the trail for over a year. Rue's hiking resume is extensive, including the Triple Crown and the John Muir Trail. But it is the APT that occupies his thought these days, as he works to realize his ambition. He's been shot at and had about 20 interactions with Law Enforcement while blazing this trail, so the difficulty of the mission should not be underestimated. If you'd like to learn more about the trail and about Rue, you can follow him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ruemckenrick/ and on the trail's website, at https://americanperimetertrailproject.weebly.com/ Katie Westling is learning a few harsh realities on the trail, though she was expecting them! Her honeymoon period is over and the real work of a thru-hike is now in front of her. Remember, you can follow her on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChEDoHA8w7RgCgs8MxuiIxA/videos With Summer coming, I'm taking a break from the main part of the podcast (apart from a monthly show plus my weekly interviews with Katie) and Ryan Hopkins will be taking my place as the presenter. Here, Ryan chats about his plans for the show and demonstrates how he is a ready-made temporary replacement for me. Don't forget, I'll be back in October full time. In the interim, you can reach out to Ryan at ryanh620@gmail.com or, of course, I'll always be happy to hear from any of you at steve@hikingradionetwork.com Larry Luxenburg's "Walking the Appalachian Trail" discusses some of the traditions and silliness of the trail from 25 years ago. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, March 11, 2021
Episode #261 - Ray Kroebl (Sparky)
I hadn't noticed how many of my fellow members of the Class of 2019 I'd had on the show until I spoke with Ray Kroebl, or Sparky. Ray is Swiss and, while we never met on the trail, we did hike just a few days apart. He started four days before me and ended five days before I did. And it was feeling such a kindred spirit with Ray that made me aware of how many of my fellow hikers on that trip were similarly kindred spirits. When you share time in such a visceral society, we bond. Ray is from Switzerland, so we spoke about his logistical challenges of getting onto the trail, as well as the enjoyment that he derived from literally every day that he spent on the trail. You can follow more of Ray's experiences through his Instagram account at https://www.instagram.com/rkroebl/ . Also this week, ATC's Brendan Mysliwiec, who is the Director of Federal Policy and Legislation and runs advocacy and federal government relations for ATC. He shares some fascinating insights into the sort of work with which the ATC is involved, dealing with an incoming administration. Then, Katie Westling got on the phone to me and shared those first few days of being on the trail. As you'll hear, Katie had a somewhat more comfortable time than most!! If you'd like to see more of Katie's hike, remember to visit her YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChEDoHA8w7RgCgs8MxuiIxA Finally, in Walking The Appalachian Trail, by Larry Luxenburg, we're introduced to the cult of Garveyism!! Fascinating. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, March 04, 2021
Episode #260 - Juliana Chauncey (Chaunce)
It's one of our longest ever shows today, with three guests and my book reading. First up, Juliana Chauncey, a fellow member of the Class of 2019, and a fellow podcaster (with Zach Davis on Backpacker Radio), shares her hiking journeys on both the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail. While originally from the Eat Coast, Chaunce knew virtually nothing about the AT before she started; she only found out about MacAfee Knob when she came to it!! However, a combination of stubbornness and grit allowed her to finish the trail and add to her hiking resume. You can learn more about Chaunce from her website, http://julianachauncey.com/ . You can also follow her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/juliana_chauncey/ and her YouTube channel is at https://www.youtube.com/user/julianachauncey You can find Chaunce's book on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Hiking-Home-Long-Distance-Family-Friends/dp/0578635143?fbclid=IwAR10B9Mz53tFfuyhi5LGCe1tCPwc-ibmZfGZDW_ZnOtUNEsMH3XmmgPerrU Katie Westling is starting her countdown to next week's Appalachian Trail start, so she and I discuss those last-minute arrangements–and nerves. After Andrew Downs came on the show a couple of weeks back, Maury Johnson wanted to talk about the ATC in the context of the deal that they had made with Mountain Valley Pipeline. Of course, I was only too pleased to share my platform with him, and he aired his own views of what he sees as an unsatisfactory situation. Finally, Larry Luxenburg's Walking the Appalachian Trail talks about hiking as an older hiker, as well as with a disability or even severe injury. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, February 25, 2021
Episode #259 - Brittany Briley (Mooney)
Brittany Briley's smile lit up the trail in 2019, and we first met at Woods Hole Hostel. A nurse by training, she felt that the time was right to take a break in her early 30s and hiked the Appalachian Trail as joyously as anybody I met out there. We didn't hike together much but, as is the way of the trail, we often saw one another. Brittany shared part of the trail with the sadly missed Pony Keg and his dog Blue. Eventually, Brittany teamed up with previous guests on this show and she summited with Cushy Life, Turd Ferguson, and Shark Tooth, along with Runaway Jim. As she'll tell you, they laughed relentlessly. Knowing these people, I can well understand it. If you'd like to read Mooney's blog, here it is: https://www.hiketotheheart.com or follow her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hiketotheheart/ Sandi Marra speaks on behalf of the ATC with regard to their JEDI initiative. If you'd like to learn more about this, go to https://appalachiantrail.org/our-work/about-us/jedi/ We're back on with Katie Westling as she counts down to her start date in less than two weeks. This week, Katie surprises me by how similar our gear is. Katie's YouTube channel is at https://youtube.com/channel/UChEDoHA8w7RgCgs8MxuiIxA while she is also raising awareness of Resources For Resilience. You can check them out at: https://resourcesforresilience.com/ Finally, Larry Luxenburg's Walking The Appalachian Trail continues this week's theme of strong women on the trail. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, February 18, 2021
Episode #258 - Joseph Barnett (Subway Gramps)
Joseph Barnett had quite the adventure hiking the Appalachian Trail during the latter half of 2019 and the first half of 2020. He faced a bunch of problems, took days off regularly to explore the towns around the trail with his wife, developed a hernia along the way, yet emerged at Springer Mountain battered but victorious. Along the way, Joseph documented and photographed people, plants, and animals, eventually producing a 500-page book he'd like to share with everybody. Quite how we're going to get it to you all, I haven't figured out yet. But watch this space for news in the future. Joseph's determination and self-belief carried him forward, sharing his hike with both his daughter and wife at various times, and meeting a guy with whom he hiked over 1,000 miles. We're introducing our new Class of 2021 hiker this week. She is Katie Westley, or Phoenix Rising. This week, we learn about why she's heading out on the trail in March. New week, I'll be learning more from Katie regarding her gear. Katie is supporting Resources For Resilience on her hike and talks about them briefly on the show. If you'd like to learn more, visit them here. https://resourcesforresilience.com/ Additionally, you can follow Katie's YouTube channel here. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChEDoHA8w7RgCgs8MxuiIxA In our ATC segment today, Julie Judkins tells us "How to be an Ally." If you'd like to put more of this into practice, or understand further, visit https://appalachiantrail.org/event/2021-hiker-guidance-how-to-be-an-ally/ Finally today, Larry Luxenburg is talking about Trail Magic in his book, Walking the Appalachian Trail . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, February 11, 2021
Episode #257 - Dan Gosmeyer (Shoeless)
We have another of my Class of 2019 brothers on the show today. I met Dan Gosmeyer pretty early on the trail and recall his quiet determination but, with a tiny hiking budget, I had doubts he'd get to the end. But the trail does something to a person. It reveals character that you may not have even known was there. Sure enough, sometime last year I received a friend request on Facebook from Dan and confirmed immediately. I checked out his page and was delighted to see that I'd been wrong; he did it. He's still a quiet guy, thoughtful in his deliberations. In fact, I had to cut out quite a few pauses in our chat to keep the flow going. Yet that determination is still there and–after all–he is still an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker. You can follow Dan and his girlfriend's new YouTube page, where he shares a few things he learned from the trail. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwarHBfDGl7-nr-OIfkfLcw The ATC have recently come under heavy criticism for a contract they signed last year with Mountain Valley Pipeline, a company which is exactly what it sounds like! Much of the criticism seems to have been reflexive, and I wanted to know what the rationale behind this seeming sell-out was. ATC provided me with Andrew Downs, a thru-hiker himself, who is passionate about both the trail and the attendant environmental issues. You may or may not agree with this rationale, but I hope you give him the opportunity to make his case and read further on the subject through all or any of the following articles. https://energynews.us/2020/10/05/southeast/less-than-ideal-bedfellows-mountain-valley-pipeline-payout-prompts-criticism/ https://roanoke.com/news/local/conservation-groups-purchase-land-to-preserve-views-from-mcafee-knob/article_3f9c56b4-4483-11eb-bd80-0f4943ce97ba.html https://roanoke.com/news/local/mountain-valley-pledges-up-to-19-5-million-to-conserve-land-along-appalachian-trail/article_3bc114c2-d07c-5947-8886-0ff3d106e17f.html Please feel free to offer your own opinion o
Thu, February 04, 2021
Episode #256 - Caroll Coyne (Cheer)
Today's guest is another whose thru-hike was the Pacific Crest Trail, yet Caroll Coyne has lessons–and solutions–that are universal to all long-distance trails. In her early 30s, she quit a well-paying job that wasn't fulfilling her and found that fulfillment out on the trail, with the community that she craved. Returning home, her trajectory altered and her project to reconnect with the hiking community was born. You can learn more about Caroll and Thru-R at https://www.thru-r.com/ . In our conversation, Carol also mentioned Craig's PCT Planner. It is in her resource directory, but I thought I'd add the link as she referred to it. https://pctplanner.com/ You can also connect with Caroll and Thru-r at: THRU-r Instagram: www.instagram.com/thru_r/ THRU-r Facebook: www.facebook.com/thrurcommunity/ Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carollcoyne/ Kathryn Herndon-Powell returns on behalf of the ATC to help hikers with some social distancing suggestions when out on a trail. If you're still planning on a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail this year, make sure you check out https://atcamp.org/ . This is a valuable resource that allows you to move your start date forward or backward to miss some high-capacity days. You can also register your own hike, thus helping other hikers who wish to do the same. Finally, in my reading of his book, Walking The Appalachian Trail, Larry Luxenburg is probably preaching to the choir when he reminds us that "it's all about your attitude." If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, January 28, 2021
Episode #255 - Erik Russell (Lars)
We have a couple of interesting topics on the show this week. Our first guest, Erik Russell, wrote to me to convey a notable if somewhat jarring, incident that he witnessed while hiking the AT in the 1997. Erik took a lot from both the hike and the incident, and he tells us how those two things contributed to help shape the man he is today. Erik is one of the few guests I've had on the show who had to search high and low for pictures of him hiking! Eventually, he found the only two that he has from his 90s thru-hike, as well as two from recent days on the trail. He also referred to an organization that he led trail crew for. This is the Student Conservation Association (SCA). They run a large number of programs for different ages including the Summer trail crews for teenage volunteers, Americorp programs and others. The SCA may be of interest to listeners who would like a way to work within the trail community or who have teenage children. Their website can be found at https://www.thesca.org/ Our ATC segment is entitled "Stay in the Know" this week, with Communication Director, Jordan Bowman. While we started with that subject, I eventually moved it on to the other interesting topic I mentioned earlier. Finally, today, Larry Luxenberg's Walking the Appalachian Trail warns us of the multitude of things that COULD go wrong on a thru-hike. Be warned!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, January 21, 2021
Episode #254 - Tina Tempest (Chunky)
It's lovely to interview somebody you've met and spent time with before. So I was delighted when Tina Tempest agreed to come on the show and share what happened during her 2009 SOBO hike of the Appalachian Trail with her friend. She has always had a desire to travel and fills in her background with one or two of those stories as well. Tina went on to buy a property and start what became one of my favorite hostels on the trail; The Quarterway Inn. Obviously, Covid gave her a hard decision to make, and she closed down for the season. If you'd like to learn more about Tina and the hostel, you can visit her website, at http://www.quarterwayinn.com/ , where you can also check out her necklaces. Additionally, you can find her on social media at www.facebook.com/quarterwayinn and www.instagram.com/quarterwayinn . In her story, she refers to her Americorps adventures, so you can read more on that at https://www.americorps.gov/nccc , while you can find out more about volunteering with a trail crew at https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/trail-crews/ Tina also makes and sells Appalachian Trail necklaces and agreed to give one away to a lucky listener. As you'll see below, I wear mine–which I received as a gift at Christmas. All you have to do is tell me, "Which of the 31 AT Maintaining Clubs maintains the trail surrounding the Quarter Way Inn?" When you have the answer, just email me at steve@hikingradionetwork.com and you'll go into the draw in a couple of weeks. In our ATC segment today, under the Know Before You Go mini-series, Chloe De Camara asks "Why Does Leave No Trace matter?" Once you hear Chloe, you may be interested in finding about the story behind the principles, so go to lnt.org . Finally today, Larry Luxenburg's "Walking The Appalachian Trail is all about the middle miles, with a few words from our #1 thru-hiker, Earl Schaffer. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see
Thu, January 14, 2021
Episode #253 - Reid Marshall and Marina Santiago (Wombat and Brown-Eyed Girl)
This week, we feature a couple who met on the trail in 2019 and have been a couple ever since. Reid Marshall and Marina Santiago are, however, locationally challenged, as Reid is in Australia and Marina is in Denver. I was fortunate enough to have met Reid on my thru-hike and was impressed with his calm and thoughtful demeanor. When we met, near the VT / NH border, Reid was on his own and didn't meet Marina until many miles later. Such is the serendipity of the trail. They share the story of their respective and joint hikes, as well as their adventures together since the AT. You can connect and find out more about them at their Challenge & Beauty website, https://challengeandbeauty.com/ , find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/challengeandbeauty , on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/challenge_and_beauty/ . Their first book, Trail Running Utah, is available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Trail-Running-Utah-Challenge-Beauty/dp/1661352820/ref=sr_1_1 Their second set of books, Trail Running Tasmania and Day Hikes Tasmania, are available in the US via special order on their website: https://challengeandbeauty.com/order-now/ Their illustrated book about their AT experience, Filthy and Free, is in the works and will be available later this year. I'll let you know when that comes out. This week on the Know Before You Go ATC part of the show, Laurie Potteiger suggests that we "Explore Locally." She tells us about alternative trails to explore, some of which are listed here. www.appalachiantrail.org/explore/plan-and-prepare/hiker-resource-library/alternate-trails/ A link to the Alternate Trails page, as well as ATC's Day-hiking and Overnight Hiking checklists updated for hiking during COVID-19, and many other useful pages, can be found in the Hiker Resource Library at www.appalachiantrail.org/hiker-resources . Don't forget, if you are going to get on the AT, make sure you register at www.ATCamp.org . In our book reading of Larry Luxenburg's Walking the Appalachian Trail, Larry talks about everybody's favorite subject;
Thu, January 07, 2021
Episode #252 - Mike Current (Energizer)
We normally focus on the Appalachian Trail, but this week, we're moving across the country to share the hike of Mike Current on the Pacific Crest Trail. Mike's YouTube channel provides a thoughtful and entertaining take on hiking. He and Steve chat about the hike and his intense preparations prior to the hike. Mike is particularly keen to make sure that the 2020 hikers' stories are told, believing that 2020 will become a lost year. If you'd like to follow Mike, you can see him on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUjqg7BI_TE-D_O45GapBzw/videos and follow him on Facebook here. https://www.facebook.com/Old-Man-and-the-PCT-2020-105383960868532 Kathryn Herndon-Powell shares her experience in our ATC segment as the first part of a mini-series, Know Before You Go: How To Plan for Hiking in 2021. Somebody found our microphone on the hikingradionetwork.com website!! Julia Doherty–a fellow Brit–tells us that she's found the perfect solution for people who like to journal on the trail and don't want to bring a heavy book. Check them out at https://www.thrunotes.co.uk/ Finally today, Larry Luxenburg's Walking the Appalachian Trail covers something of a rarity; hikers who repeat their AT thru-hike. Who on earth would ever do that?? If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, December 31, 2020
Episode #251 - Steve Yale (Walmart 2021)
We're back to our three-segment show this week, with Steve Yale, or Walmart 2021, as our principal guest. Steve got his name when he first hiked the AT in pretty much all-Walmart gear. He has since worked out better options, but his love of the trail shines through in both our conversation and his devotion to a life of thru-hiking the AT. In contrast to the negative responses that some people experience on Facebook, Steve has been embraced by the Facebook community, gaining support and strength from them throughout his initial and further hikes. You can follow Steve within that community at https://www.facebook.com/steve.yale.395 Jordan Bowman, Director of Communications for the ATC is our second guest this week. Jordan is a fellow member, with me, from the AT Class of 2014, and his responsibility has been to fashion and develop the message coming out from the ATC on behalf of the trail. It hasn't been an easy year. If you're planning a hike on the Appalachian Trail next year, check out their Hiker Preparation series of videos on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFH_6GYIHxE&list=PLUtubPrCAycOb-j-OsqTW5yQQxjQKfQja I revealed the competition winner today for our map giveaway. Christopher Marshburn is the lucky recipient. Here's a link to the Facebook Live draw that I did on Wednesday. https://fb.watch/2IIhBNsrNq/ Finally, Larry Luxenburg's Walking the Appalachian Trail digs into the motivations of people's hikes and we learn that virtually nobody does it like anybody else! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, December 24, 2020
Episode #250 - Trevor Hendry (Bear)
It's a shorter show today, though I think the content is as compelling as ever. This week's guest is Trevor Hendry, or Bear. Trevor's 2020 thru-hike presented him (and his fellow hikers) with unusual problems that he had to encounter and deal with. However, as I've found with some of this class of 2020, his experience–while not the same as previous hiking years–was equally rich as any other. He even found himself slowing deliberately towards the end as he was relishing his adventure. You can see more of Bear's pics on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/trevor__hendry/ There is no middle section of the show this week, but our ATC segment continues next week. In Larry Luxenburg's "Walking the Appalachian Trail" we meet a new character and you'll hear that many of the concerns of today's hiker are reflected in these stories of 30 and 40 years ago. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, December 17, 2020
Episode #249 - Matthew Norman (Odie)
We've got an old friend on the show today. Matthew "Odie" Norman is one of those good people of the trail. He lives it, he breathes it, and he shares it, with his Hiker Yearbook that reconnects hikers after the trail. Odie reached out to me recently and wanted to give me a recap of how he sees the hiking season of 2020. As you'd imagine, he has plenty to say that makes sense and wears his heart on his sleeve throughout our conversation. If you'd like to learn a little more about Odie and the Hiker Yearbook, you can find out at his Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/thehikeryearbook and at his website, which is https://hikeryearbook.com/ The last time I saw Kathryn Herndon-Powell, she was at our Woods Hole Weekend, educating everybody about Leave No Trace. This week, on our ATC segment, her topic is Trail Communities. So listen in and find out how why trailside towns are so important. Finally today, in Larry Luxenburg's Walking the Appalachian Trail, we get another take on a trail legend; Grandma Gatewood. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, December 10, 2020
Episode #248 - Larry Knight (McGyver)
This week, Larry Knight shares his Appalachian Trail thru-hike story. It was never really a bucket list item for Larry but, as often happened, a confluence of events culminated in Larry finding himself at Springer Mountain, heading north. Injury curtailed the first attempt, but Larry returned to finish the job the following year. When Larry was finished, he wanted a memento of the trip and started thinking about a map that would be personal to him and his hike. This has developed, and a listener to our show, Don Robinson, recently bought and gifted one of Larry's meticulously detailed maps to Steve. Larry then picked up the ball and offered to personalize a map for Steve. It is nothing less than spectacular. Check out the video further below. If you'd like to learn more about Larry's wonderful maps, visit his website at https://www.redeftmapping.com/ or find him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/Red_Eft_Mapping/ Steve and Larry discuss how these maps came about and–very generously–Don Robinson and Larry are donating the original map to one of our listeners. Larry himself poses the question on our show, so don't forget to enter this competition. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zs2XvoTHrkw Alyssa Reck was somewhat thrown in at the deep end with a few minutes' notice for this week's ATC segment but handled herself admirably. Alyssa's subject was "Why Connections Matter: From Engagement to Responsible Recreation." If you'd like to learn more about the issues discussed, Alyssa has provided the following links. Hiker Resource Library https://appalachiantrail.org/hiker-resources , This is a collection of resources for hikers to stay safe, healthy, and responsible on the Appalachian Trail. Register on A.T. Camp https://atcamp.org/ Recreate Responsibly Coalition https://www.recreateresponsibly.org/ Folks can also always find ATC us on Social Media. Lastly, Gene Espy figures in this week's reading of Larry Luxenburg's "Walking the Appalachian Trail." If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'
Thu, December 03, 2020
Episode #247 - Stephanie Logan Hall (Puffin)
Another really full show this week, with four segments. First up, there is a recently minted thru-hiker, Stephanie Logan Hall, who completed her SOBO hike on November 19. I was particularly keen to hear from her and her early impressions–which will doubtless change with time–of the trail and her adventure. Those of you who regularly listen to the show will know how impressed I am by these young women who take on the trail. It is clear to me that the world is in safer hands as they become our leaders for tomorrow. I'm afraid it's time for us old fat white guys to step aside!! You can reach out to Stephanie through her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000442855977 Stephen Eren, Trail Facilities Manager with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, shares his views on Life on a Trail Crew. As he said that he would in our conversation, Stephen has provided us with plenty of links to explore the possibilities of working on the trail. Get involved with SWEAT, Rocky Top, or Konnarock Trail Crews: https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/trail-crews/ SWEAT https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/trail-crews/smokies-wilderness-elite-a-t-crew-sweat/ Rocky Top https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/trail-crews/rocky-top-trail-crew/ Konnarock https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/trail-crews/konnarock-trail-crew/ Learn more about Trail Maintenance, Visitor Use Management, Leave No Trace, and Wilderness https://wildernessskillsinstitute.org/2020-wsi/ I was–at last–able to connect for a debrief with Mr President, or Bill Tickner, after the conclusion of the AT section of his now-completed Triple Crown, which saw him cross the "finish" line at Damascus. Finally today, Larry Luxenburg's Walking the Appalachian Trail looks back at the origins of the trail, and the people who made it happen. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Net
Thu, November 26, 2020
Episode #246 - Matthew Emerson (Prada G)
We have a story today of a young man who walked away from a life of extreme poverty to find himself (literally) on the Appalachian Trail. Matthew Emerson's story is now a book, and his visceral experiences set the scene for his journey and a new life at the end. Matthew's insights gleaned from his hike resonated with me, and we share a frank discussion for this Thanksgiving Day. You can find Matthew's book on Amazon . Click the picture of the cover and you'll be taken there. Another hiker-turned-author, Ben Crawford, shares why, despite exposing his family to YouTube scrutiny, there is more to tell. Like Matthew's book, you can find Ben's on Amazon by clicking on the book cover. Remember, you can get your own signed copy of Ben's book by answering the question I asked in the podcast. Send your answer to steve@hikingradionetwork.com . I also mention the magnificent, personalized map of my 2019 hike. You can see my video below and more of Larry Knight's work at redeftmapping.com . https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zs2XvoTHrkw Finally, continuing both the book and map theme, Larry Luxenburg's Walking the Appalachian Trail talks of another giant map. Once again, find Larry's book at Amazon . (Sorry about the small pic!!) <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Walking-Appalachian-Trail-Larry-Luxenberg/dp/08
Thu, November 19, 2020
Episode #245 - Alan Carpenter
Another full show today, with Alan Carpenter taking up long-distance hiking in his 60s and still going today, well into his 70s. Alan's story is a testimony to his persistence, while his joy at the people and sights of the various trails he has done shines through. He does get a little banged up from time to time. In our conversation, you'll hear about how he got his legs into the state you see below. Ouch!! You can learn more about Alan and his hiking at https://longdistanceadventures.com/ , while he is also available at https://alantcarpenter.com/ . Alan's book about a healthy lifestyle is at https://www.amazon.com/Choose-Better-Live-Healthy-Choices/dp/1734254408/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=choose+better%2C+live+better&qid=1605221852&s=books&sr=1-1 Julie Judkins and I talk about Education and Outreach at the ATC. Julie has shared a document that highlights their JEDI approach!! You can read it here. https://appalachiantrail.org/our-work/about-us/jedi/ I was so struck by the beautiful new medal from Hiker Medals recently and wanted to share it with you all AND get Wim Schalken on the show to tell us about it. He even includes a new discount code!! Go to https://www.hikermedals.com/product-page/2020-medal-free-engraving Larry Luxenberg's "Walking The Appalachian Trail" makes its debut on the show this week. It was written in the 90s and has contemporary stories from the era that offer some interesting counter narratives with some of today's hiking journals. Should be fascinating. If you can't wait for me to read it all, you can buy it from Amazon, here. https://www.amazon.com/Walking-Appalachian-Trail-Larry-Luxenberg/dp/0811730956 If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, November 12, 2020
Episode #244 - Julia Sheehan (Rocket)
It's a slightly shorter show this week, with Laura Sheehan, or Rocket, as our principal guest. Julia was a member of my last AT class; the Class of 2019. We never met on the trail, but I was made aware of the popularity of her YouTube videos. She is a very self-aware hiker, acknowledging the changes she saw in herself, having sold everything to uproot her life and hit the AT in 2019. Like many hikers, she learned to live with less and now uses her YouTube channel to record further adventures and inspire others. You can follow Julia on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/juliasheehan/ and her YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/jls935/featured Laura Belleville from the ATC takes on the subject of managing and protecting the AT in times of crisis. As you'll hear, Covid is just one of many issues that qualifies as a crisis. If you'd like to learn about the work that Laura refers to, check out the incident form at https://appalachiantrail.org/explore/plan-and-prepare/report-an-incident/ Learn more about Landscape Conservation and Climate Resiliency at https://appalachiantrail.org/our-work/conservation/landscape/ and https://appalachiantrail.org/register-blog/a-t-volunteers-are-saving-the-world/ Bill Tickner's phone eventually gave up the ghost, so we were unable to record a final catch up, but I will speak with him in next week's show. Finally today, Fozzie's hiking companions–and Fozzie–conclude Balancing on Blue by telling us all about their post-trail direction and the lessons they learned. Remember, you can get a full audio version of Balancing on Blue from Amazon . If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.
Thu, November 05, 2020
Episode #243 - Dan Schoenthal (Tremor)
This week's guest, Dan Schoenthal, is an unlikely thru-hiker. He suffers from Parkinson's Disease and, as you'll learn, he has pushed through this impediment, getting an impressive start on the 2200-mile journey. I spoke with Dan a few weeks ago, and he mentioned a fund-raising effort he was making in conjunction with his hike. That particular fundraiser has now ended, but if you know somebody stricken by the condition and would like to help, here is a link to the Parkinson's Foundation, where you'll find a donate button to make your gift. https://www.parkinson.org/ The ATC's Marian Orlousky surprised me by the breadth of work the ATC undertakes regarding science. As always, you should go to https://appalachiantrail.org/ if you'd like to learn more, though Marian did warn me that some of the links on the program-specific pages aren't working. She did say that the website is in the process of being updated. Mr President is under 100 miles from Damascus. As you'll hear, he is throwing himself into the whole experience in these closing miles; his Halloween costume should give you an idea that it's not all about the miles. Fozzie's Balancing on Blue is nearly over, and this week, the boys reach Katahdin. The full audio version of Balancing on Blue can be found on Amazon, Audible, and iTunes. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, October 29, 2020
Episode #242 - Jillian and Logan Ivey (The Purple People)
Anybody who shared the trail with me last year must have heard of the Purple People. They seemed to be ubiquitous, turning up night after night at hostels, shelters, and homes to play their own music to lighten everybody's lives. The fact that they wore and carried everything in a vibrant lilac color didn't exactly allow them to blend into the crowd. These are two people with a distinct sound, a memorable appearance, and a giving nature. When I was able to interview them for the show, their journey hadn't unfolded as I'd expected it would. Yet it is well worth listening to. If you'd like to find out more about the Purple People, click on some links below. https://www.ilovethemailboxes.com https://www.instagram.com/themailboxes/ https://www.youtube.com/user/themailboxesmusic Extra Links: https://www.facebook.com/themailboxes https://open.spotify.com/artist/5ZgpagevHW6qjOL6lQs7jb https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/the-mailboxes/591571580 Morgan Sommerville was next up for the ATC, with his insights into how the organization is trying to combat overuse on the trail. If you'd like to find out more, click on some links below. Morgan referred to the A.T. Comprehensive Plan, which is the essential A.T. management guidance: https://www.nps.gov/appa/learn/management/upload/CompPlan_web.pdf If you fancy a really deep dive into visitor use management, you should check here: https://visitorusemanagement.nps.gov/ And, ATCamp is where people and groups planning to camp on the A.T. can see if their proposed overnight site has room for them, and where thru-hikers can register the start date of their hike. ATCamp has charts that instantly update with each new registration, that show how many people are planning to camp at a given overnight site, or start a thru-hike on a given day in GA, Baxter, and for flip-flops, thus allowing them to spread out: https://atcamp.org/ Mr President is into the last two weeks
Thu, October 22, 2020
Episode #241 - Rob Landry (Fly by Night)
I first met Rob Landry (virtually) when he reached out partway through his 2020 thru-hike attempt. He was thinking about writing the book of hiking during a pandemic and wanted a little publishing advice. So it delighted me to hear from him when he finished his 2020 hike and I invited him on the show. The finish, however, wasn't what I expected, and nor will you. If you'd like to see more of Rob's hike, check out his Instagram account at https://instagram.com/flybynighthike Leanna Joyner is the Program Director for Volunteer Relations and in this week's "Discovering the ATC segment," she shares with us the myriad ways that you can volunteer to help YOUR trail. "Volunteering on the A.T.: From Recreation to Stewardship" is the title they gave me, so I dove in to find out more. If you'd like to help out, go to https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/ , and Leanna or one of her colleagues will point you in the right direction. Bill Tickner continues to weave his way south, enjoying every minute as he closes in on his Triple Crown. And Fozzie, in Balancing on Blue, discovers the boundaries he's unable to cross when a member of his tramily requires a somewhat closer inspection than Fozzie is prepared to give. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, October 15, 2020
Episode #240 - Woods Hole Hostel Retreat
We've got a bit of a departure from our normal set up today. Instead of a particular hiker, I've got a disparate collection of characters who attended our inaugural Woods Hole Retreat a couple of weekends ago. I've tried to recapture the event by chatting with nearly all the participants and hope that you'll enjoy this one-off change. We covered a four-day weekend, starting with a short hike into Dismal Falls from the Weary Feet Hostel. At the Falls, we camped overnight and shared some tips on overnighting and the various considerations you have to take into account. The following morning, we returned to Weary Feet, then drove to Woods Hole, where everybody joined up and spent Friday till Sunday lunchtime as our own little tramily. Pretty much everybody spoke, and, as you'll hear, the weekend was a great success. Special thanks go to Neville and Bruce for coming up with the idea and implementation and Tina for joining us from the Quarterway Inn. Tina showed off her AT necklace (Below). If you'd like to buy one or see more about them, check out her website shop at https://quarterwayinn.square.site/ You can also find out more about her hostel for a future stay (currently closed) at https://www.quarterwayinn.com/ If you'd like to find out more about Woods Hole, go to http://woodsholehostel.com/ and to learn more about Weary Feet, go to https://wearyfeethostel.com/ I've got Bill Tickner (Mr President) again as he pushes into his last state, Virginia. Also this week, Andrew Downs, Senior Regional Director for ATC in Virginia, kicks off our new segment of conversations with the ATC. This week, the subject is "Thru-Hiking to ATC Staff: How Has My Perspective Changed after my Thru-Hike?" Because of the length of this show, we're not including the latest episode of Fozzie's Balancing on Blue. That will be next week. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, October 08, 2020
Episode #239 - Pat Stith (Lucky)
We have another of our vintage hikers on the show today. Pat Stith didn't get started with his hiking until he was in his early 60s, yet he's certainly made up for lost time in the interim. Now 78, Pat goes through his various adventures with Steve, including his Appalachian Trail thru-hike in 2015 when he was into his 70s. Pat loves the people he meets even more than the hiking and mentions friendships that have survived the trail with far younger hikers. His blog, at http://patstith.com/ is full of the wisdom of age and the experience of a trail shared. Bill Tickner catches up with Steve after two weeks and is into his final state; Virginia. He reflects on the many places he's seen in this past couple of weeks. With Damascus as his goal to complete his Triple Crown, we only have Bill for a few more weeks. In his book, Balancing on Blue, Fozzie passes through the New York Zoo that is part of the trail, with thoughts of freeing a caged fox that he sees there. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, October 01, 2020
Episode #238 - Briana and Cambyr Sullivan (Chickweed and Kaleidoscope)
Another couple of 2020 Appalachian Trail thru-hikers this week, with Briana and Cambyr Sullivan, a mother and daughter duo who recently completed the trail. Significantly, Cambyr turned 14 on the trail and, as you'll hear, she has a remarkably mature view of the magic of the trail. One of the many wonderful things about their story is that their relationship shifted during the hike, with shared responsibilities and goals altering their familial dynamic. Their story is inspirational, so much so that the two of them appeared on the Drew Barrymore TV show the day after they spoke with me. Hopefully, I didn't ruin them for Drew!! Find out for yourself by clicking here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtN5vjn2wCU&app=desktop I highly recommend Briana's blog at https://naturespirit.me/AT/ and you can connect with her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/brianamsully/ No Bill Tickner this week as we were unable to connect in time before I went away for a few days. Bill will be back next week. Keith Foskett's Balancing on Blue delves into the nether regions this week. Don't say I didn't warn you!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, September 24, 2020
Episode #237 - Bill Tickner (Mr President)
Bill Tickner, or Mr. President, is a hiker we've been following for some weeks now. When he wanted to respond to the points made by Sandi Marra from the ATC in last week's show, I realized that it was too good an opportunity to miss, so I turned our expected ten-minute catch up into a full interview about both the 2020 hiker's push back to the ATC and more of his hiking and life journey. You can find more about Bill's hiking stories at his blog, https://www.wildernesseffect.com Connect with him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/bill.tickner or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mrpresidenthikes/ In the show, I referred to a hiker I met in 2014, No Pain. He has been missing for nearly a year, so I thought I'd share the poster below in the hope that somebody may recognize him and even know where he is. Please call the numbers on the poster if you know where he can be found. Instead of Bill in the middle part of this week's show, I caught up with Bounce, who is settling, for the time being, in Rangely. Finally today, Fozzie is nearer to Katahdin than he is to Springer, always a magical and awe-inspiring moment. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, September 17, 2020
Episode #236 - Sandi Marra (President and CEO of the ATC)
This week, we have Sandi Marra on the show. Sandi is the President and CEO of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and has had to make some tough decisions during the 2020 hiking season. With a longtime love of hiking and volunteerism, Sandi combined both to give most of her life to the Appalachian Trail and its hikers. I wanted to bring her on to the show to find out the thought processes behind the 2020 closures, and she responded with thoughtful and decisive answers. Typically, her choice of links to share with listeners is illuminating. If you want to find out more about the Conservancy, go to https://appalachiantrail.org/ . If you want to help, either through volunteering with or joining the organization, go to https://appalachiantrail.org/get-involved/volunteer/ or https://donate.appalachiantrail.org/default.aspx?tsid=7709 . Mr President is fast discovering the joys of Pennsylvania, delighted that he invested in a fresh pair of shoes before he hit the state. He met up with two old friends and even met a listener. Fozzie's Balancing on Blue reaches the magnificent Virginia Triple Crown of Dragon's Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs. He also bumps into a stranger in need and steps up to help. This week, I got a wonderful surprise in the shape of a beautiful map from a listener, Don Robinson. Listen to how this all developed in the show, but check out https://www.redeftmapping.com/ . You won't be disappointed!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, September 10, 2020
Episode #235 - Ryan Schlosser (YearBook)
I was first contacted by today's guest, Ryan Schlosser, when he was preparing for his 2020 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail earlier this year. Ryan's mother is a friend of my friend and hiking partner, Pat Coate, or Tee Bird. Ryan's hike was a school project (imagine that!!) and he needed to record his progress. Pat thought I might be able to help him and a new podcaster was born. I listened to his early progress, then stopped getting updates. He went radio silent in response to the growing pandemic. Eventually, when things eased up a little, he was back online and still heading north. You can learn more about Ryan's story on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/walkingtalkingpod on his website at http://www.ryanschlosser.com/ and at "Walking and Talking: An Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike" wherever you find your podcasts. Bill Tickner is loving his southbound hike, and he is now through both Connecticut and New York, having savored the delis AND a drive-in movie. Fozzie is preparing to drive back to Trail Days. First, though, he recalls the story of the Wapiti Shelter. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, and want to see our shows continue, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. You'll find the donate button on each Hiking Radio Network page at https://www.hikingradionetwork.com Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, September 03, 2020
Episode #234 - Dave Fleischman (J.I.F.)
We've got a guy this week who has spent his life hiking and giving back to both the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails. Dave Fleischman has spent time over the past 25 years maintaining both trails (mainly the PCT) and has a great insight into the logistics behind some of these extraordinary projects. He also arranged his work life to facilitate his passion and shares a story about the importance of watching your health on any trail. I'm sure you'll recognize where he is on our epic main photo and you should watch his video to give you an idea of his '93 PCT thru-hike. https://youtu.be/_iRufREILgM John Zaccone comes onto the show to talk to us about his popular–and rather addictive–app called Walk The Distance. Listen to John as he tells you how to get the app AND help the ATC. Mr President, Bill Tickner, introduces us to yet more serendipity and history of the trail. Follow up on this story by clicking this link to learn more about Ned Anderson and the beautiful Brae Burn Farm. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nestell_Kipp_Anderson Finally, Fozzie meets some ponies. No prizes for guessing where!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, August 27, 2020
Episode #233 - Sally Brooks (Not Yet)
Today we have a comedian, a writer, and a podcaster, but, as you'll learn, she is also an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker. Sally Brooks has a compelling story that appealed to me the moment we started talking. She is funny, wry, and observant, all qualities that she probably needs for her day (or night) job of being a professional comedian AND as a podcaster. You can check out the podcasting and Sally's comedy at http://dumblovepodcast.com http://sallybrookscomedy.com Mr. President is in CT and feeling the heat, while his cabin in California is going through much the same thing. Bill's pragmatic approach to that tense situation says a lot of good things about him. Fozzie has reached the Smokies, always a highlight in the thru-hiking adventure. Special thanks to Ever Green Adventure Foods for their wonderful support for the past three weeks. They have a great product and a wonderful business ethic that is all about protecting and giving back to the various long-distance hiking trails. Thanks, Toast and Jammz. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, August 20, 2020
Episode #232 - Craig Fowler (Scatman)
This week we have a serious overachiever on the show. Craig "Scatman" Fowler finished the Triple Crown of hiking and looked around to find something else. In particular, he wanted to do something that nobody on earth had ever managed to complete. Once he had become the "One of Seven," his focus shifted to help people celebrate their own uniqueness. If you'd like to learn more about Craig and his One of Seven Project, go to http://www.oneofsevenproject.com/ Mr President is just short of the Massachusetts border, staying in Bennington, VT. He shares an insight into some fellow SOBOs that had never occurred to me. Fozzie is approaching the Smokies. As anybody who has ever done the AT, the Smokies have their own way of greeting you! Thanks to this week's sponsor, Ever Green Adventure Foods. Find out more about them at https://evergreenadventurefoods.com/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. Click here to donate to the show. Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, August 13, 2020
Episode #231 - Barney Mann (Scout)
Another terrific show today, with Barney "Scout" Mann sharing his story as a lifelong hiker, a Triple Crowner, and the Ultimate Trail Angel of the Pacific Crest Trail. He started his journey as a young lad in the High Sierra (picture below) and started his Triple Crown on the PCT–with his wife–on their 30th Wedding Anniversary. Barney has written a book about that hike, weaving in the stories from not only he and his wife but also of other characters they hiked with. As you can see below, he's changed a bit over the years!! Order Journeys North https://www.amazon.com/Journeys-North-Pacific-Crest-Trail/dp/1680513214 Visit Scout's Website https://barneyscoutmann.com/ Follow Scout on Instagram and Facebook https://www.instagram.com/journeys.north/ https://www.facebook.com/barneyscoutmann/ Also this week, Bill Tickner, or Mr. President, joins the show to talk about his SOBO hike that originally started back in 2019. You can follow Bill's blog at https://www.wildernesseffect.com/ and find him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mrpresidenthikes/ And in Balancing on Blue, Fozzie hits Amicalola Falls and the start of his own thru-hike. An immediate problem is establishing his nationality! Get Fozzie's book at Amazon by clicking here The sponsor for this week's show is Ever Green Adventure Foods. Check them out at https://evergreenadventurefoods.com/ Thanks guys; it means a lot. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button can be found on the Hiking Radio Network site at <a href= "https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/show/mighty-blue-on-the-appalachian-trail-the-ultimate-mid-l
Thu, August 06, 2020
Episode #230 - Amber Heuisler (Wheezy)
Amber Heuisler, or Wheezy, came to my attention recently on Facebook. Her proud boast of walking 200 miles on the AT may not seem to be so much of a cause for celebration but, as she explains, in my view it is an achievement on a par with my thru-hike last year. She is an inspiring young woman who has fought back in life and found that being on the trail is exactly where she wants to be. I hope others are as inspired as I was when I caught up with her in Damascus a few weeks ago. You can keep up with Amber on the trail at her YouTube vlog https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=redeemed+wanderer Bounce has found some peace once more, and he shares with Steve what the hike is doing for him. Our new book, Balancing on Blue, by Keith Foskett, picks up with Keith flying over the Atlantic, then reflecting upon how he got to the AT. If you'd like to check out this and Keith's other books, just go to his Amazon author page at https://www.amazon.com/Keith-Foskett/e/B00A535AQ6?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1596666090&sr=8-1 Thanks to our sponsor for the past few weeks, Triple Crown Coffee. Not only do they make a great Cup of Joe, they give back to the trail with every sale. I hope that you want to support them as you choose what you drink on the trail. Check them out at https://triplecrowncoffee.com/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, July 30, 2020
Episode #229 - Lily Gelfars
This is a long show!! First off, we have Lily Gelfars, a listener who wanted to express her opinion regarding hiking in 2020. She brings some personal experience to her views, having decided to abandon her own 2020 hike on the Camino de Santiago. With a background that includes a SOBO hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2017, she shares her story. She also gave me permission to share her letter/email to me; I'm sure you'll see why I wanted her on the show. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kjIZWdJkpKWDkf02J7nUkYK8y9SUyih3OHB0JBcRfD0/edit If you'd like to hear more from Lily, her blog is at https://alengthyinterlude.wordpress.com/ and she is on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tuliplaglitter/ Bounce is now moving extremely fast, having said that he intended to slow down. Find out why. Despite the length of the show, I didn't want to miss bringing Erin Mackenzie's amazing encounter to you. Believe me, it is a tale that will make you appreciate that we share the trails with wild animals. Finally today, Keith Foskett's "Balancing on Blue" is our new book, about Keith's own AT journey. This week, he introduces his cast of characters. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, July 23, 2020
Episode #228 - Brian Bell (Brother Bear)
Brian Bell has shaped his life to enable him to spend as much time as he can in the outdoors. He looked for a local trail club to see if he could help, then volunteered more and more until he took responsibility as a trail overseer in Shenandoah National Park. Continuing to give back to his local community, he has started a volunteer organization called Keep Virginia Cozy, putting together teams to spend some time in the outdoors and picking up litter that they find. You can find out more about Brian and Keep Virginia Cozy with the links below. His website: http://keepvirginiacozy.org/ On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/keepvirginiacozy On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keepvirginiacozy/ On MeetUp: http://www.meetup.com/keepvirginiacozy Bounce has had a tough few days. After our chat, I found out a little more. This is the picture he posted on his Facebook page. Grandma Gatewood has reached the end of the road and we hear of her final days. I don't know about you, but I will miss her! Thanks go to Triple Crown Coffee for supporting the show. We hope that you try out their great coffee on your next hike. Find them at https://triplecrowncoffee.com/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, July 16, 2020
Episode #227 - Molly Rhoads (Shark Tooth)
I met Molly Rhoads in 2019 when she was hiking with my buddy, Nate Stockton. The two of them were a well-suited odd couple. Nate has retired from the military and is in his 40s, while Molly looks like a 20-year-old. They acted like siblings and enhanced my hike whenever I ran into them, which was often. Molly had a run-in with some small wildlife, though she never lost her sense of humor about that and, as far as I could see, about anything else. She had previously done the Long Trail and, after a shaky start, found that she loved thru-hiking. The AT fired her passion, and she is currently hiking the Colorado Trail, with the PCT in her sights soon. Bounce Da Hiker had been out of contact for a week, and it was only on Wednesday morning that I could get hold of him. He's right on the New Hampshire border, so let the fun and games begin!! Grandma Gatewood has amazed us along the way and, now in her 70s, she continues her wanderlust with a THIRD Appalachian Trail hike. We gratefully welcome to the show Triple Crown Coffee, our sponsor for the next four weeks. Find out more about them at https://triplecrowncoffee.com/ If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Your support is gratefully received.
Thu, July 09, 2020
Episode #226 - Chris Pirrello (Cookie Monster)
We've got a really well-traveled guest on the show today. Chris Pirrello has led a somewhat nomadic lifestyle, with a fourteen-month trip around the world at the start of the 21st Century, followed by years of hiking most of the long trails of America, including the Triple Crown. He even took a job in Antarctica to chalk up his sixth continent. He is a self-confessed foodie and loves excellent coffee, so it seems almost inevitable that he has ended up as the owner of Triple Crown Coffee, a company with a mission to give back to the three trails that make up the Triple Crown. Indeed, each roast is named after one of the trails. If you want to learn more about Chris and his coffee, go to https://triplecrowncoffee.com/ With Kate now home, we're following Bounce Da Hiker. This week, Bounce has been putting in some very long days and had to take a double zero when his body told him he needed a rest. Grandma Gatewood's fame, which had been growing while she was on the trail, gets even greater, as she appears alongside Groucho Marx on TV. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, July 02, 2020
Episode #225 - Keith Foskett (Fozzie)
We've got quite the show today, coming in at over 90 minutes. There's something for everybody, with Keith Foskett, one of the best writers on hiking, sharing his stories and hikes with wit and introspection. We'll be having his Balancing on Blue as our next book on the podcast, so it was great hearing about how he developed as both a hiker and writer. If you want to learn more about Keith or buy some of his books, you can go to his website, https://www.keithfoskett.com/ where you'll find links to each book, his blog, some info on his hikes and a contact page. You can also find him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Keith-Foskett-Fozzie-270894196286427/ On Twitter at https://twitter.com/KeithFoskett and on his Amazon Author page at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Keith-Foskett/e/B00A535AQ6?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_5&qid=1592228832&sr=8-5 Phoenix has been struggling with her ankle recently and, when she texted me on Thursday, I was expecting the worst, though she was in great spirits. Find out what happened. There are a few additional parts to the show this week, including an initiative by Bruce "RTK" Matson, so we hopped on the phone and were joined by Neville Harris of Woods Hole Hostel. Check out the Woods Hole website to learn more about Bruce's initiative. http://woodsholehostel.com/ And, for reasons that will become obvious, we get to meet Sean Campbell, or Bounce Da Hiker. Check out Bounce's YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_bYx8ZiGBNPrJfu9eqY57A/videos Finally, Grandma Gatewood does the unthinkable–and goes again!! What a woman!! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP
Thu, June 25, 2020
Episode #224 - JC Van Etten (Catmando)
This week, we have JC Van Etten, or Catmando. Not only did JC recently win our six-book giveaway, but he was also part of the very tight "tramily" that Togs and Lucky referred to a few weeks ago. I wanted to hear JC's side of the story and, as I'd anticipated, he brought his own slant to the journey that they all shared. JC retired early from work and hopes to fill his retirement with further adventures, though the Appalachian Trail was the fulfillment of a dream many years in the making. As part of this dream, JC raised money for a charity close to his heart, Paws of War. You can learn more about them at their website, https://pawsofwar.org/contact-florida-chapter on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/PawsofwarFlorida/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/pawsofwarflorida/ Kate, or "Phoenix," has had a tough few days and is pushing on in the heat of Connecticut after a zero in Kent, CT. She's having to pull on all her reserves of grit and determination as she continues to recover from her ankle injury and the tough terrain. Grandma Gatewood, after summiting Katahdin, had to deal with an inordinate amount of celebrity in the immediate aftermath. As she is going through this, a new plan is forming in her mind..... In this week's show I also referred to the excellent discussion that Anna Huthmaker had on her latest podcast with El Miller and the issue of hiking while black. It is a thoughtful, insightful look at something I'd never truly considered. You can find it on https://traildamespodcast.libsyn.com/episode-57-el-miller-bear-spray I also mentioned my own fundraiser for hikeforH2o, a charity that helps fund the construction and maintenance of wells in Africa, giving villages access to clean water for the first time. I'm currently 30 miles into my 45 miles-in-a-week challenge. You can still sponsor my effort at https://runsignup.com/MightyBlue If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either
Thu, June 18, 2020
Episode #223 - Eric and Jessica Matos (Toast and Jammz)
I think that this is the longest show we've ever had!! Our main guests are Eric and Jessica Matos, or Toast and Jammz. They were introduced to me by Jester, from the Jester Section Hiker podcast and they have a strong hiking resume. We talk about both their hiking and their passion for leave no trace and sustainable use of wilderness places. Toast shares a few stories about their first hike together as a couple and how, when they were on the John Muir Trail, an idea for their business came to them. They have an inspiring message and vision for a time that needs businesses like theirs. If you'd like to learn more about Toast and Jammz (and, of course, Jelly Belly), check out https://evergreenadventurefoods.com/ and follow them on social media at https://www.instagram.com/evergreen_adventurefoods/ and https://www.facebook.com/evergreenadventurefoods Phoenix, our Woman of a Certain Age, is dying to get out of New York. Her ankle still bothers her, but she's soldiering on. Late this evening (Wednesday, Jun 17) I heard from her as she passed 400 miles. Cori Strathmeyer wanted to share news of a charity that is helping three African countries to get clean water. Hikers can help in this effort, either by signing up to walk yourself or sponsoring me as I take on a challenge. I highly commend this cause to you. Go to https://www.hikeforh2o.org/ to sign up. Grandma Gatewood summits Katahdin and the writer, Ben Montgomery, wanted to follow in her footsteps. Listen as he follows in the path of this trail-blazing woman. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.
Thu, June 11, 2020
Episode #222 - Marissa Neel (The Executioner)
It's an all-woman show today, with Marissa Neel, the Executioner, as our main guest. She has a very funny, brutally honest YouTube channel, and is exactly the same person in our conversation. Marissa shares plenty of witty insights and a stoic determination to get to the end. The story of her last night camping on the AT is a visceral example of what it can be like out there. I could relate on so many levels. Her YouTube channel is not to be missed, so click here. https://www.youtube.com/user/mkneel2/videos Kate is now moving through New Jersey and past the 300-mile mark. The ankle still hurts, but she continues to push north. Below, she is with her current hiking partner, Luna, at the top of Culver Tower. I mention the open position at the Devil's Backbone Brewery as Chief Hiking Officer in my comments in the show. If you'd like to apply, check it out at this link. https://www.dbbrewingcompany.com/cho/ Finally, Grandma Gatewood reaches Baxter State Park. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.
Thu, June 04, 2020
Episode #221 - Carolyn Walker and Gordon Yhap (Lucky 59 and Pepperpot)
Carolyn Walker and Gordon Yhap are now thru-hikers. When you hear their story, you may well wonder "How did they do it?" This conversation should shake up any pre-conceived ideas you may have about what it takes to hike the trail successfully. Gordon and Carolyn are an inspiration. Carolyn kept an online journal while on the trail, so if you'd like to follow along with their hike, click here. http://mytripjournal.com/carolynwalker . She also did a guest post in the Trek once she finished https://thetrek.co/appalachian-trail/not-hiking-harder-than-hiking/ Kate Stillwell is still pushing north in our "Woman of a Certain Age" segment and has made it out of the dreaded state of PA. We also have the second part of Chapter 14 from Grandma Gatewood's Walk If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.
Thu, May 28, 2020
Episode #220 - Luke Jordan (Strider)
We're not so focused on the AT this week, with Luke "Strider" Jordan taking on some of the wilder American trails. His first thru-hike was the 4600 mile North Country Trail, and he became the Earl Schaffer of the Great Plains Trail when he completed the very first thru-hike of that new trail. On the way, he learned what worked and what didn't. He shares some fascinating insights in his conversation with Steve You can connect with Strider and find out more about these trails at the following links. Strider's NCT Hike website: http://stridernct.com/Home_Page.php Strider's Travel Facebook https://www.facebook.com/StriderNCT/ Strider's Book "Thru And Back Again..." , available on amazon https://www.amazon.com/Thru-Back-Again-Journey-Country/dp/0692880909 For information about the North Country Trail visit: https://northcountrytrail.org/ For information about the Great Plains Trail visit: https://www.greatplainstrail.org/ Kate Stillwell, or Phoenix, has stopped in town for the first time, mainly to resolve a blister issue. She and Steve chat twice as she continues her steady progress. Grandma Gatewood's Walk is a little truncated this week, with only the first part of Chapter 14. The second part of the chapter will be next week. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.
Thu, May 21, 2020
Episode #219 - Natalie Wood and Grady Thompson (Togs and Lucky)
This week's guests met as members of the Class of 2019–my year, even though we never met–and they have been together pretty much ever since. Natalie and Grady both left a little earlier than I did and had a terrific tramily. It was Catmando, one of their tramily and a listener to the show, who pointed me in their direction. Natalie and Grady's story brings out the diversity of opportunity on the trail and each reflects upon how lucky they were not only to meet one another but that they chose 2019 and not 2020 for their trip. Natalie has a beautiful AT video which she did entirely in verse, so check that out here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyh80NSnma8&t=206s Kate Stillwell, in defiance of ATC directives, keeps moving forward and is already over 100 miles into her hike. We caught up on Tuesday. After chatting with Kate, I received an email from ATC who clarified their continued guidance about trail closures. I read this email on the show for the benefit of listeners. Finally, Grandma Gatewood's ordeal is over. No, not her hike, her marriage. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.
Thu, May 14, 2020
Episode #218 - Bobby O'Donnell (Handyman)
We've got another terrific show today, with Bobby O'Donnell, a listener, providing our main conversation. Bobby and I discuss a pivotal moment in his life that led him to marathons on seven continents and, in 2018, the Appalachian Trail. His story has moments of sadness, disaster, and triumph, all of which he drew on during his hike. A paramedic, Bobby has been working during this crisis, and his personal experiences have shaped his response to adversity. You can connect with Bobby on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/runningwildbook/ He is on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/runwildbook His website is https://www.runningwildbook.com/ Kate Stillwell, our Woman of a Certain Age, has decided what she wants to do with her intended thru-hike this year. She shares that decision with Steve. Grandma Gatewood's growing fame has reached the pages of Sports Illustrated and she burnishes her superwoman credentials by her stoic approach to the swollen rivers in the north. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.
Thu, May 07, 2020
Episode #217 - Sarah Jones Decker (Harvest)
This week, we have a book theme in the show, with a giveaway of six signed books. The principal guest is Sarah Jones Decker, or Harvest, who thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2008, but that wasn't the primary reason that we have Sarah as a guest. She has photographed and written about all the AT shelters in a beautiful book that evokes all the memories we share at those often rundown places. You can connect with Sarah and buy a signed copy of her book at https://www.sarahjonesdecker.com/ Sarah's question as part of our six-book giveaway contest is: What is the largest non-hut shelter on the AT? Bruce Matson also came back to the show to talk about the three books that he has written since his thru-hike. You can find his books on Amazon at this link. https://amzn.to/3ccmmrU Bruce's question is: In which town do participants in the Curly Maple Pizza Challenge purchase the beer and pizza necessary to complete the challenge? I've added my two signed books about my 2014 thru-hike and my question is: What shelter has the highest elevation on the trail? Answer ALL THREE questions correctly, email your answers to me at steve@mightyblueontheat.com , and you'll be entered into a draw for ALL SIX signed books. Best of luck. Finally today, Grandma Gatewood faces a storm in both her personal and hiking lives. She also teaches us a lesson that was being learned the hard way, for some, in the 1950s. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, April 30, 2020
Episode #216 - Steve Ortiz (Survivor)
This week, our guest is a listener who is also a LASHer, a long-ass section hiker. His name is Steve Ortiz or Survivor. His trail name gives away that the mere fact that he is hiking the Appalachian Trail in sections is a blessing in itself. A cancer diagnosis has not slowed down this self-confessed adventurer and, while he regrets that he has to stay off the trail during the current crisis, he is itching to get back out there to complete his goal. If you'd like to keep up with Steve, take a look at his blog; it has some glorious trail pictures. You can find it at https://www.a-bucket-list-of-adventures.com/ My special guest for the middle section is a surprise, though it is a very personal conversation with somebody who has occupied a lot of my thoughts in April. Finally, Grandma Gatewood is in New England, just as a hurricane is slamming its way towards her! If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, April 23, 2020
Episode #215 - Paul Curtin (Magnum)
With the trails now quieter than they've probably ever been at this time of year, it seems appropriate somehow that we should have a trail maintainer AND thru-hiker as our main guest this week. Paul Curtin hiked the AT in 2015 with his son, Kyle, and now gives back to the trail through his work with the Carolina Mountain Club. Paul and Steve talk about Paul's hike and the very important lessons that he learned for his post-hike life. You can read more about the hike on his blog at this link - https://pckc.tumblr.com/ Then, Paul and Steve go on to chat about the work that Paul and the rest of his Carolina Mountain Club members do for the respective trails that they care for. You can learn more about some of this work at the following links: Overnight crew - https://youtu.be/sSjE-HKFmaY Regular crew work - https://youtu.be/0pmb0yXkTLs Carolina Mountain Club website - https://www.carolinamountainclub.org/index.cfm CMC trail maintenance https://www.carolinamountainclub.org/index.cfm/do/pages.view/id/12/page/TRAIL-WORK National Trail Day at Max Patch https://vimeo.com/341199743 Also on the show, sharing his passion for the Great Plains Trail, Clay Bonnymore Evans gives us news of this relatively fledgling trail that promises tons of solitude. Website for Great Plains Trail Alliance - http://www.greatplainstrail.org/ Clay's website Wonderland (menu on top has a link to a long blog about his GPT hike) - https://claybonnymanevans.com/ People can always reach out to Clay through email at - claybonnyman@gmail.com The photo above is of Bear Butte from the Centennial Trail, to give you a sense of what it's like. The butte is truly the "Katahdin" of the Centennial Trail, a spectacular place to finish or start. Finally, on today's show, Grandma Gatewood crosses the Hudson River at the lowest point on the trail. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Rad
Thu, April 16, 2020
Episode #214 - James Brinkman (Snickers)
Today we meet James Brinkman or Snickers. James, like me, was a member of the Class of 2019. Indeed, we met and had dinner in Erwin TN on our respective hikes. James' journey to the trail was somewhat tortuous, with a nasty accident as a young man and an addiction to pain killers messing up much of his early life. James is an inspiring example to all who believe that they can't hike the Appalachian or any other long-distance trail. He faced his issues, moved past them, and got out into nature. As you'll hear, it was just what he needed to do. You can connect with James on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100006002928928 and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/beardly_mcbearderson/ I wouldn't normally add his business Facebook page but I'm making an exception here as he intends to offer free massage sessions to healthcare workers once his business reopens. Good on you, James. Reach him there at https://www.facebook.com/JamesBrinkmannMassage/?__tn__=%2Cd%2CP-R&eid=ARCEnwVyhLueMAtMh9-_s7Q7LhepGjqCi9SUxgHQ0O21s62VQGTb9cLhPj6DX_8r9pZEA1ZTwPv7uTlG While I'm still pondering what to do with the middle section of the show, this week I have Steve Cole, an aspiring AT thru-hiker who went for a warm-up on the Tour Mont Blanc. He shares some of his experiences of this beautiful trail with you all. If you'd like to see more, check out this YouTube link from Abbie Barnes; it gives you a great little taster for what you'll see on the TMB. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzHJGRTjo2Q Grandma Gatewood continues to walk north, gaining publicity and admirers along the way as she heads into New York. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, April 09, 2020
Episode #213 - Melissa Goodwin (Click)
Our main guest today is Melissa “Click!” Goodwin, a licensed outdoor guide and photographer. She is the founder of Girl Gotta Hike, which connects women with nature, confidence, and camaraderie, both online and on-trail through blog posts, podcast interviews, and guided hiking and backpacking trips in and around New York City. She and her dad, Michael “LongTime” Goodwin, thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail together in 2011. This is her story. Melissa can be found at: Girl Gotta Hike Website www.girlgottahike.com Girl Gotta Hike The Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/girl-gotta-hike-the-podcast/id1485833617 https://open.spotify.com/show/0YHVJuW8bitL56H4B1l9UE @girlgottahike on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/girlgottahike @girlgottahike on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/girlgottahike @girlgottahike on Twitter https://twitter.com/girlgottahike Melissa Goodwin Photography http://melissagoodwinphotography.com Mel and Mike Hike - A 2011 AT Adventure http://melandmikehike.com We also hear from Janet Hensley, universally known and loved as Miss Janet, the ultimate Trail Angel. Miss Janet's calm, pragmatic take on the current pandemic is welcome at this time. Finally, Tim Montgomery's Grandma Gatewood's Walk reaches the second half of the AT, revealing more of her brutal relationship with her husband. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, April 02, 2020
Episode #212 - Paul Collins (Skunkape)
Plenty to get your teeth into today. Our main guest is Paul "Skunkape" Collins, a man who took on the Appalachian Trail in 2012 and has missed it every day since. He also plans to get back on the trail in 2022, his 10-year trailiversary. He took over 2,000 photos (carrying a DSLR camera) and shared them with friends and, most particularly with his mother. Prior to her death, he celebrated the trail with her in a really touching way. You can see some of Paul's pics on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/hikingwithskunkape/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hiking_with_skunkape/ I join my fellow Hiking Radio Network podcasts–Julie Gayheart and Anna Huthmaker–in a panel discussion on the ramifications of the virus on hiking long-distance trails. Additionally, Dr. Lynne returns to the show, with real-world experience of what the virus is doing to us and some helpful tips. Finally, Grandma Gatewood reveals more of her brutal life and reaches Harpers Ferry. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, March 26, 2020
Episode #211 - Cari Pattison (Sprout)
We have another pastor on the show today. Cari Pattison is a member of the Class of 2019 (as am I) and she tells the story of her hike as it unfolded last year. She had planned a return to the trail this year but, with the Corona Virus now threatening to overrun most of us, she has had to accept that this year won't be possible for her. Cari's calm presence on the show may well reassure others as they contemplate their own broken plans. If you'd like to follow Cari on Instagram, you can find her at https://www.instagram.com/follow_thejoy/ Additionally, her fascinating and extremely well-written blog on the Trek can be found at https://thetrek.co/author/cari-pattison/ There are a lot of different opinions on the virus and how hikers should respond. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has had its say (along with the associations of other long-distance trails) and I will be giving my view on the show this week. To add to that, we have a hiker who (at March 25) is currently still hiking north. Grandma Gatewood continues her struggle north, with Post-WWII America unfolding in front of her. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received.
Thu, March 19, 2020
Episode #210 - Aaron and BG Turner PLUS Heather "Brave" Sloan
This is a special show that takes in the Corona Virus and its implications for hikers, as well as a father and son pair of pastors preparing to hike the Appalachian Trail. First, we have Aaron and BG Turner, two men ready for the adventure of their life, yet torn with doubt over the advisability of the hike. This situation is changing so quickly that I thought it was important to not only hear from Aaron and BG, but it was also important to get an expert on the show to help us in our deliberations regarding this outbreak. Heather "Brave" Sloan is a public health educator and gives us up-to-the-minute advice on what we should be considering. She may well be needed on the show in a week or so for further updates. You can check out Heather's Facebook page if you'd like to learn more about staying healthy on the trail. https://www.facebook.com/stayinghealthyontheappalachiantrail/ Kate Stillwell continues to count down to her own AT flip flop, though that decision is similarly conflicting her. And Grandma Gatewood reaches Damascus, with the whole of America in a road-building frenzy. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.
Thu, March 12, 2020
Episode #209 - Paul Stutzman (Apostle)
This week, now that we've finished reading his book Hiking Through, Paul Stutzman shares with us his hiking and personal journeys. We've learned about his AT trip and I wanted to know what happened after he stepped off the trail. Like his books, Paul is funny, perceptive, and occasionally serious. If you'd like to learn more about Paul or buy some of his books, you can visit his website at http://paulstutzman.com/ We also chat again with Kate Stillwell, our Woman of a Certain Age. Kate is using her 2017 experience on the trail with her daughter to dial in her gear. With less than three weeks to go, Kate's journey is nearly upon us. Finally, in Grandma Gatewood's Walk, Emma's sometimes brutal early life is juxtaposed against the freedom of her hike. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.
Thu, March 05, 2020
Episode #208 - Chloë de Camara (Vulture)
We first met Chloë de Camara a few weeks ago on the show, informing us about the critical Leave No Trace principles and, in a follow-up conversation, it was clear that Chloë had her own Appalachian Trail story about her trek in 2015. She was very intentional about how she came to the trail, writing a thesis about Appalachian Trail thru-hiking as a spiritual experience and volunteering for the ATC. As you'll hear, meeting the inspirational Jennifer Pharr Davis was a great motivator for her own journey. If you'd like to see more of what Chloë does, click on this link to the ATC's Start Smart program https://youtu.be/J_-evEG3fFg Also today, we have the start of a new series; A Woman of a Certain Age, where Kate Stillwell prepares for and then attempts a thru-hike of the AT from April 1. In this episode, Steve and Kate talk, along with Kate's daughter Alexa, or Tinkerbell. Our new book, Grandma Gatewood's Walk, by Ben Montgomery, teaches us more about the harshness of Emma's life and the early days of her epic journey. If you like what we're doing on the Hiking Radio Network, please consider supporting us with either a one-off or monthly donation. The donate button is on the Mighty Blue podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Any support is gratefully received. Music for the "A Woman of a Certain Age" segment is by permission of Kate's friend, John Jensen. You can see and hear it in full on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlP7g7qivo4 Thanks, John.
Thu, February 27, 2020
Episode #207 - Aaron Owens Mayhew (Sling)
Aaron Owens Mayhew, MS, RDN, CD is a registered dietitian, ultralight long-distance backpacker, and backpacking food cookbook author. Aaron has worked in the field of nutrition for nineteen years and has been a backpacker for nearly as long. After having a mid-life crisis in 2016, Aaron began long-distance backpacking on her 40th birthday by hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. She has since launched her business, Backcountry Foodie™, a recipe and meal-planning service for backpackers. The service provides a platform for Aaron to share her knowledge and passion for eating well in the backcountry. She also runs her business and lives in a camper van full-time with her husband and dog. They have been on the road since April 2019 and look forward to where their outdoor adventures will continue to take them. You can learn more about Aaron, and her advice, at her website https://backcountryfoodie.com/ You can also find her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/backcountry_foodie/ Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/backcountryfoodie/ YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSUpLNV2Ct1WQWZHhSF3eCw Also today, we have the first chapter of Ben Montgomery's book about the first badass woman on the trail; Grandma Gatewood. If you'd like to buy the book, follow this link. https://www.amazon.com/Grandma-Gatewoods-Walk-Inspiring-Appalachian-ebook/dp/B00IQY2Q0O/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3F2GUEOT90P8Y&keywords=grandma+gatewoods+walk&qid=1582740316&sprefix=grandma+gate%2Caps%2C202&sr=8-1 Remember to show your support for the show by donating on our podcast page at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/
Thu, February 20, 2020
Episode #206 - Brant Bazner (Brant and Garvey)
Our guest today, Brant Bazner, lives in the iconic trail town of Damascus. He moved there to be near the trail and has now been hiking on the AT for several years, mainly with his dog, Garvey. Steve and Brant have a wide-ranging conversation about hiking on the trail with a dog, along with a discussion on gear and a few of Brant's stories about his years of hiking on the AT. You can catch up with Brant at Garvey on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYX2u59E9uxUD92oFVKdZeg We also have Chloe Decamera from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy on the show, talking about Leave No Trace principles as the hiking season warms up. Chloe has a wealth of information and clearly articulates what you need to know when you take to a trail near you. Chloe has shared several excellent links as you prepare for the trail. We talk about "Don't be that guy" on the podcast, so check out these links Don't Be That Guy: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLuekIhaoBuWaLCkXWvhdoFy8ag5sGOLxt Thru- Hiker Registration (AT Camp) Link: https://atcamp.org/ A.T. L.N.T. Online Awareness Course: http://atc-training.org/lnt/ A.T. Recommended Food Storage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6LnIl-Gt8U&feature=youtu.be In today's show, I also mention an email I had from a listener, Frances Youngblood, drawing my attention to an event happening in Lebanon, MO on April 25th. On that Saturday Frances' friend, Tracey Sheets, will be holding a program to introduce foster children (ages 14-20) to the outdoors. THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN HELP. We're trying to get new or gently used hiking books into the hands of these youngsters and, if you can help, please sign them on the inside, telling who you are and where you're from so that these young people have some connection to you and to the great outdoors. Please mail them to Tracey Sheets, PO Box 751, Ozark, MO 65721 . Thanks for your help. Finally, Paul Stutzman's epic journey comes to an end as he stands on top of Katahdin. It's been a blast.
Thu, February 13, 2020
Episode #205 - Derick Lugo (Mr Fabulous)
It's a fabulous show this week, not least because we have Mr. Fabulous, or Derick Lugo, as the main guest. Derick hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2012 and has earned himself a reputation as a speaker about the trail, as well as a growing recognition as a writer. His new book, The Unlikely Thru-Hiker , is now available at his website and on Amazon. You can connect with Derick in a variety of ways. Website: https://www.dericklugo.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/derick.lugo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dericklugo/ The short story of his hike with his brother–The Trail Brothers–can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JR21w5qi-B8 Another fabulous guest is April Mae, who Steve spoke with following a post that she made on Facebook. Her story is illuminating and inspiring. The pictures below show April's "Before" and "After" pics. Her story is a testimony to the power of hiking and its beneficial effects upon both the body and the psyche. Don't forget to check out our sponsors, Hiker Medals, at https://www.hikermedals.com/ . We've been delighted to have had them on the show these past few weeks. Also, if you'd like to support the various shows on the Hiking Radio Network, you can find the donate button at the podcasts page on the Mighty Blue site: https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Finally, today, Paul Stutzman stands on the edge of glory, tackling the 100-Mile Wilderness as he prepares for Katahdin.
Thu, February 06, 2020
Episode #204 - Rory Anderson (Bigfoot)
A packed show this week, with about 90 minutes of goodness!! Rory Anderson, or Bigfoot, is this week's main guest. Rory is an accomplished hiker, having completed the Appalachian Trail in 2016. He has done several other trails and recently broke the Fastest Known Time (FKT) for the Superior Hiking Trail. As Rory stresses, he's not superhuman; he's just a very determined guy with a plan. He and Steve talk about ultra-lite backpacking and the never-ending quest to shave off a few extra pounds from your pack. You can follow Bigfoot's YouTube channel, called Follow Bigfoot, at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkA3z-lSyEg6ZN-BqMy6wow For his FKT Superior Hiking Trail video, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SKjmG0QkGTs His FKT gear list is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3B-Je29UhWI In this podcast, Rory also talks about his passion for Halloween and shares a video of his 2019 haunt at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_B-cvQ5mik It is well worth watching!! Steve also chats with Wim Schalken of Hiker Medals, the sponsor for today's show. You can find out more about Wim's awesome project at https://www.hikermedals.com/ Paul Stream, of The Barn in Gorham, tells us about his hostel in Maine, which you can find at https://www.libbyhouseinn.com/ In Steve's reading of Paul Stutzman's Hiking Through, Paul has an unlikely encounter....with a giant rabbit!!
Thu, January 30, 2020
Episode #203 - Neville Harris of Woods Hole Hostel
We're almost at the end of my series on hostels, so Neville Harris, the owner of my favorite hostel on the trail, Woods Hole, was a great person to chat with. The interview took me in an entirely unexpected direction, but it revealed Neville to be a true AT character, flaws and all. You can learn more about the hostel by visiting http://woodsholehostel.com/ Neville's photos by Lisa VonLuehrte. Find Lisa on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/livonphotography/ We also spoke with Matthew "Odie" Norman in advance of the publication of his much-awaited Hiker Year Book for 2019. It is particularly much-awaited by yours truly, as I'll be in it, having missed out on the 2014 edition!! Check out Odie's page at https://hikeryearbook.com/ And we introduced you to Hiker Medals, who you can learn about at https://www.hikermedals.com/ . Thanks so much for the support, guys. Check out my own medal, below. Finally, Paul Stutzman has reached the last two states, normally the crowning glory of a northbound hike. Yet Paul's experience turned out to be a very soggy time indeed.
Thu, January 23, 2020
Episode #202 - Silvia Cassano (Momma Sil)
This interview with Silvia Cassano was recorded nearly a year ago, but I've only just recovered it. Silvia is a "Trail Angel" referred to by a previous guest, yet she has so much more to offer than that. Her knowledge of all things trail shines through here, with her many positions within the AT community contributing, particularly to the trail in her own community. Image courtesy of Jeff Yardis. Silvia admits to being opinionated, so her views on the trail are pretty much unvarnished and welcome at this time. She is passionate about the true meaning of Trail Magic and isn't a big fan of hiker feeds, with Leave No Trace principles uppermost in her mind. The Vermont theme is continued by a conversation with Jess Treat, a woman in whose home I have now stayed twice, both on my 2014 thru-hike and my hike last year. Jess tells us about her home and the service that she offers hikers seeking some warmth and comfort on the trail. Finally, Paul Stutzman is on the verge of New Hampshire–also in Vermont!!
Thu, January 16, 2020
Episode #201 - Craig Mains (Hawk)
Another great show today, with a guy who is clearly in love with hiking and particularly the Appalachian Trail. Craig "Hawk" Mains has been this way before but, with his THIRD thru-hike, he was going for something really special. Listen to how it all unfolded, with not only his epic hike but also several personal events that deeply affected him. Craig has a YouTube channel that you can visit to learn more about his adventures, past, present, and future. Go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEsauJnA_OgXuilWtEXGQKg and catch up with him. Tracey "Zoom Zoom" Davis-Witmyer reached out to me and I immediately asked her on the show. Tracey is one of that special breed; a trail maintainer. Even more importantly, she represents a younger generation than my own that the trail so sorely needs if our trails are to be sustained in the future. You can see more of Tracey's adventures on her YouTube site at this link. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqBSuze0_yVJc3Yyz7LIviQ/featured You can also follow her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Adventure-349950165693712/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoomzoom497/ If you'd like to learn more about trail maintenance, go to www.appalachiantrail.org and choose a trail club near you. Don't forget to support the show by clicking on the donate button on this link www.mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ Finally, Paul Stutzman finally understands why he is hiking the trail. The revelation is stunning.
Thu, January 09, 2020
Episode #200 - Sara Spittel (Cushy Life)
I've met many extraordinary women on the trail but few who have left as deep an impression as Sara Spittel, or Cushy Life. Cushy was the Queen Bee of our little tramily in 2019, with both Trigger and me in supporting roles. Cushy displays an empathetic nature, showing concern for everybody she met on the trail–often to Trigger's and my mock annoyance!! She is ever curious and willing to strike up a conversation with pretty much every hiker she meets. But we weren't going to finish with Cushy. She had other adventures and partners than us. Despite that, however, we were delighted to catch up with her again in New Hampshire to share her joy at being in her home state. I thought I knew quite a bit about her, after our long conversations on the trail, yet she surprised me a few times in this conversation. Adam Stanley, or Stanimal, owns two hostels; one in Glasgow and one in Waynesboro. I stayed at both, so it was fun to catch up with Adam as we talked about his great little hostels. Finally, for this 200th episode, Paul Stutzman's book, Hiking Through, has reached the New England states.
Thu, January 02, 2020
Episode #199 - Kimberly Brookshire (Legs)
While we normally focus on Appalachian Trail thru-hikers, Kimberly Brookshire's story was too good to miss. She had spent the early part of her career in fashion and wanted to experience something completely out of her comfort zone. Eschewing the Appalachian and other long-distance trails, Kimberly went for the lesser-known Mountains To Sea Trail. This proved to be the perfect segue between her previous life and a new one that she discovered. But Kimberly's story didn't end when she reached the end of the trail in the Outer Banks. She was enjoying the life that she was leading and appreciated the person she had become through her adventure. So she did it again, eventually completing a yoyo of the trail, becoming only the third person and the first woman to do so. The following links will enable you to connect with both the trail and Kimberly. Links for the Mountains To Sea Trail: https://mountainstoseatrail.org/ https://www.facebook.com/Mountains-to-Sea-Trail-144643271890/ https://instagram.com/mountainstoseatrail?igshid=1t4izqwud4jxm https://twitter.com/NCMST Links for Kimberly: http://kimberlybrookshire.wordpress.com/ https://www.facebook.com/kimberlylegsbrookshire/ https://www.instagram.com/kbrookshire/ https://twitter.com/kabrookshire30 Craig Griffiths of Misty Mountain Inn provides hikers with a wonderful place to rest their heads early on the AT. I stayed there on my 2019 thru-hike and thoroughly appreciated the experience. Craig tells us what the cabins have to offer the weary traveler. Find Craig and his inn at http://mistymtninn.com/ Paul Stutzman's Hiking Thru has reached New York, with its delis and a shelter dubbed by Paul's friend, Fargo, as the Pharmacy Shelter. Finally, if you love this and the other Hiking Radio Network shows, please consider either a monthly or one-off donation to help fund the five regular shows that we have scheduled for 2020. You can find the DONATE button on the podcast page of the Mighty Blue website. Click on this
Thu, December 26, 2019
Episode #198 - Willow Bolton (Angel)
With all the problems that one may encounter on the Appalachian Trail, Willow Bolton decided that highlighting her disability (something that she refers to as a blessing) would be a good way to bring some attention to it. In the interview with Steve she mentions, almost in passing, another major issue and, despite her stoicism, Steve was moved by her determination. If you'd like to learn more about Willow's "blessing," you can go to https://www.hydroassoc.org/ . If you'd like to help out with a donation you'll find a donation button on the homepage. This week, we also spoke with Ryan Hopkins, who produced Steve's show while he was on the AT this year. Ryan has some news of his own that involves a song called "Thru" by a group named Tie Goes To The Runner. Steve met Scooch and Paris (two of the group's members) this year and they graciously shared their song with him. Watch their video here on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-ejGjWCGHU Finally, Paul Stutzman indulges in the somewhat questionable joys of Naked Hiking Day.
Thu, December 19, 2019
Episode #197 - Dave Braunlich (Seventy)
Dave Braunlich gave himself a tough task when he considered hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2019. He needed to fit in the trail AND keep his job. For this reason, his daily mileage had to be more than 30 miles every single day. Listen to Dave as he shares his remarkable story with Steve. You can also follow Dave's journey with his YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSvDFp_OzbOSq1reZpChIEg?view_as=subscriber and his Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/davidbraunlich/ Standing Bear Farm is the featured hostel this week, as Marie Guzzman tells about the history of the hostel and why it is always a work in progress. I thoroughly enjoyed staying at the hostel, both in 2014 and 2019. Finally, Paul Stutzman reaches the rocks of Pennsylvania in "Hiking Through." 'Nuff said!!
Thu, December 12, 2019
Episode #196 - Andrew Haverstick (Gandalf)
When Andrew Haverstick reached out to me recently telling me that he had a story to share, I called and listened to his story. Our subsequent conversation turned into one of the most poignant interviews on the show so far. In 2018, when he thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail, he did so with an unfolding situation back home that was doubtless causing him stress. That said, Andrew's calmness in our conversation and his actions on the trail were all based around that unfolding situation. Listen to Steve and Andrew as they discuss Andrew's hike. If you'd like to follow Andrew on his adventures, you can find him on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ahaverstick13/ and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg6eYbh5TShtPBmuiiIdxcQ With no hostel owner to talk with this week, I took the chance to speak with Anna Huthmaker, of the Trail Dames Podcast. She told me of the development of the podcast and her plans for the future. You can catch up with the show at https://hikingradionetwork.com/the-trail-dames-podcast/ It is particularly apposite to do so in the next week or so as Anna gives you gift ideas for the hiker in your life. Our sponsor, Terri Kidder, a Young Living Essential Oils Independent Distributor, has an offer for listeners. Just text "HIKER" to 937-848-1630 and you'll receive a response telling you how to get the Young Living Basic Hiker Pack for you or the hiker in your life. Finally, in Paul Stutzman's Hiking Through, Paul passes the halfway mark and encounters a ferocious storm.
Thu, December 05, 2019
Episode #195 - Colleen and Julianne Davis (Peaches and Woodstock)
I met Peaches and Woodstock in Maine when I was heading north earlier this year. They are listeners to the show and Julianne introduced herself, asking me to say hi to her Mom, Colleen, who was on her way down the mountain. I recall thinking at the time that it would be great to interview a mother and daughter on the trail and I was consequently delighted when the two of them reached out to me recently. They have spent a long time on the trail and are now almost at the end. It was great catching up with the two of them as they tell of the fun they've had together, strengthening an already strong bond. Terri Kidder, a Young Living Independent Distributor, sponsors the show this week, offering a "Basic Essential Oils Hiker Pack." All you have to do is text the word "HIKER" to 937-848-1630 and you'll soon receive a response with everything you need to know about getting this great pack that Terri has put together for hikers. Thanks for your support, Terri. Jim Gregory of Boots Off tells us about one of my favorite hostels on the trail. With loads of different accommodations to choose from, this is certainly a stop you should consider. Lastly, Paul Stutzman's Hiking Through has Paul finally out of Virginia and at the traditional halfway point; Harpers Ferry.
Thu, November 28, 2019
Episode #194 - Jessie Crawford (Supergirl)
When Jessie Crawford had a drink with Stylez, a friend of mine from the Class of 2014, they discussed post-trail life and "how weird the transition is." When she got into contact I knew that she had a story to share, so we hit the record button and chatted away. Quite apart from her "weird transition," Jessie proved herself to be another of the empowered, strong young women who now take on these hikes and she had a fine story to tell, including one of the best explanations of what trail magic really is. When Jessie returned from the trail she started her own graphic design business and you can see her work at https://jessiecrawford.com/ If you reach out to her through the site I'm sure she'd be delighted to hear from you. Also, this week, I'm introducing another new podcast from the Hiking Radio Network, A Woman of a Certain Age: Phoenix on the Appalachian Trail. This will be covering the journey of Phoenix, whose real name is revealed in the show as we meet her.
Thu, November 21, 2019
Episode #193 - Rob and Gavin Duncan (Waffle and Hawkeye)
I first heard of Rob and Gavin on the trail when Rob's wife, Beth, wrote to me in May to tell me about their journey. The family had been listening to the podcast for some time as they prepared for the AT. Now that they were on the trail, Beth wanted to update me on their progress. I knew that Gavin was struggling a bit, so I reached back out and tried to give some encouragement, telling that I'd like to hear their story when they were done with the AT. I'm really glad that we were able to get them on the show because Gavin had an especially poignant message for hikers of all ages. Hiker's Welcome was one of the hostels that I enjoyed in 2019 AND 2014, so I asked John Robblee, or Packrat to come on the show and tell us about this iconic stopping point. You can reach the hostel at 603-989-0040, or find them online at www.hikerswelcome.com . Finally, Paul Stutzman's Hiking Through finds Paul running into trouble in almost the same spot that I did, back in 2014. Not so happy memories!
Thu, November 14, 2019
Episode #192 - Jess Jordan (Yalla)
When we met Yalla on our thru-hike earlier this year, Trigger and I were immediately drawn to her as a person but it was her name that stuck with us for the rest of our journey. Yalla tells us about her flip flop, starting at Harpers Ferry on the way to Katahdin then southbound from Harpers to Springer. She recounts two different hikes, which is the way she segmented them in her mind. As luck would have it, she ran into a friend of mine in Georgia and when my friend mentioned Mighty Blue, they knew that had a friend in common. I'm so pleased that I got the chance to talk with her again. Tina Tempest is the owner of Quarterway Inn, a hostel about 550 miles (or a quarter of the way) into a NOBO hike. I stayed at the Inn this year and loved it. Tina tells us about why she decided to run a hostel and the various services that she provides. I was told before I hit the trail this year that Quarterway was a "must stay." That advice turned out to be spot on. You can find out more about the hostel–and book it from April thru June–at https://www.quarterwayinn.com/ Paul Stutzman, from his book, Hiking Thru, moves farther up the trail, losing one partner and gaining another, if only for a short time.
Thu, November 07, 2019
Episode #191 - Darrell and Alicia Brimberry (Next Step and Which Way)
When Darrell and Alicia set out to hike the AT in 2018 they assumed that they would hike the whole way together. It didn't work out that way and, as a result, they have different perspectives of the same hike. When injury strikes, it is important to know beforehand what the plan would be for a couple on the trail. Darrell and Alicia had already decided what they would do, and one carried on without the other until they finally summited together at Katahdin. The Brimberrys kept a journal that you can find at the link below. http://www.trailjournals.com/Brimberry Also this week, I reply to a listener's question and speak with Chica and Sunsets on their new venture. Finally, Chapter Ten of Paul Stutzman's Hiking Thru finds Paul at Roan Mountain.
Thu, October 31, 2019
Episode #190 - Sahada Buckley and Luke Runels (Cloud and Leaf)
We've had a variety of guests on the show over the past three years but I'm pretty confident that no guest (or guests) has ever been as laid back about their journey as Sahada Buckley and Luke Runels. They were out in the woods to get away from life's distractions, playing music, singing, and avoiding much of the modern paraphernalia of everyday life. Often going radio silent, Sahada and Luke experienced the trail in a way I've never heard before. They took more than a week in Washington DC and even longer in New York City. The first three photographs in these notes are credited to Carly Geraci , while I wanted to include a pic of Luke lying, seemingly asleep, on a railway track. Love it! We also have Julie "Jester" Gayheart, our new host on "Jester" Section Hiker, a podcast coming soon. Julie shares a bit of news and gives a preview of what you can expect with the show. Finally, Paul Stutzman's Hiking Through reaches the trail town of Hot Springs, where a bike ride triggers some difficult memories.
Thu, October 24, 2019
Episode #189 - Julie Obear and Barry King (Boston and Cubby)
Boston and Cubby have been long-distance hiking for nearly 15 years, having started with the Appalachian Trail in 2005. During that time they have completed the Triple Crown, climbed Mt Kilimanjaro, done the American Discovery Trail and the Long Trail. They even found time to hike across the state of Rhode Island! They have simplified both their hiking style and their lives, finding peace and their desired solitude along America's trails. You can find out more about Julie and Barry's journeys at the following links. https://www.trailjournals.com/juliebarryjohn https://www.trailjournals.com/bostonandcubby https://www.trailjournals.com/adt2012 https://www.trailjournals.com/longtrail2015 They are also on Instagram at backpax and on Twitter at backpax14 Katy Amphlett completed the Mighty Blue Class of 2019 debriefs by letting us know how she got on this year. Whatever happened, we beat the odds overall.
Thu, October 17, 2019
Episode #188 - Dianne Seger (Lady Di)
Lady Di was part of one of my earlier "tramilies." We spent quite a bit of time together around Fontana Dam and the Smokies but were separated after that. She was yet another example of a fiercely independent, strong woman who brought a lot to the trail this year. Starting her hike less than a week after her retirement, she was slow but steady throughout her journey. I particularly remember her cooking "real" food every night, unlike my own pathetic efforts. Now that she has finished the trail–just a week before this conversation–she is still coming to terms with the impact of the hike on her and starting to adjust to retirement. Tina Dunaway is the last but one of the Mighty Blue Class of 2019 and she has her own story that tells why she finished the trail after 600 miles. It isn't a happy ending but certainly one with hope for the future.
Thu, October 10, 2019
Episode #187 - Jason Elwood (Bamboo)
I met Jason and his friends in 2014. They were on the trail helping other hikers while achieving their own hiking goals at the same time. I don't believe that I quite understood how much their journey was geared towards supporting others until we spoke on the show. Since then, Jason has completed both the Pacific Crest Trail and, very recently, the Continental Divide Trail, to complete hiking's Triple Crown. All these hikes have been motivated by the same theme of helping others while sharing his faith. You can find out more about Jason and his mission work at https://ywamrichmond.org/ You can also follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jason.elwood.12 and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bambooathiker14/ We also caught up with another member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2019, Carlton Johnson and he proved to have such a positive experience on the trail, despite not finishing it this time. Finally, Paul Stutzman has reached North Carolina, with Georgia now in his rear-view mirror.
Thu, October 03, 2019
Episode #186 - Tammy and Curt Fackler (Lolli and Pop)
With an empty nest, sufficient money, and plenty of time on their hands, Curt and Tammy Fackler decided to drastically downsize. They sold their home and gave away most of their belongings before hitting the road in their truck with their new home attached. Their adventures were always leading them to the Appalachian Trail and, six months after their travels started, they set off from Georgia. Tammy wasn't an experienced hiker but she wanted to support Curtis in his dream, so went along for the ride. Listen to how their journey unfolded. Lotta Anvret, from Sweden, is another member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2019, and she is back to reveal how her hike ended up. Finally, Paul Stutzman's Hiking Through covers the early miles and the first main stop, at Mountain Crossings.
Thu, September 26, 2019
Episode #185 - Mike Colburn (Bassman)
Mike Colburn started his years-long section thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail during the last century. While he never intended to complete the trail in sections, it wasn't until the earlier years of this century that he realized that it was in his sights. With so little now to do, Steve and Mike discussed his long, long journey to this moment. Along the way, Steve and Mike have run into one another on the trail, sometimes fortuitously, sometimes by design. The two of them have shared a friendship that was born on the AT and continues to thread through the AT. Our Mighty Blue Class of 2019 debrief continues with Nate Stockton, or Turd Ferguson, as he recounts what happened on his epic hike this year. Finally, Paul Stutzman provides us with some context for his feelings on that first night on the top of Springer Mountain, in Georgia.
Thu, September 19, 2019
Episode #184 - Olivia Miller Bakke (Mama Lion)
When you finish the Appalachian Trail, your mind is in a bit of a whirl. You can't fully articulate your thoughts and, really, those thoughts mature over time. I wanted to capture the thoughts of a hiker within 24 hours of his or her finish, so when I saw Olivia Miller Bakke's summit photo on Facebook, I reached out to her. This is that conversation. I also caught up with Lea Ann Hogan, another of our mighty Blue Class of 2019 and her reasons for stopping her hike after 500 miles. As you'll hear, she wasn't desperately happy about it! Chapter Three of Paul Stutzman's Hiking Through brings Paul to the trail at Amicolola State Park. During those initial steps, he entertains a few doubts!
Thu, September 12, 2019
Episode #183 - Bob Curran (Trigger)
When I met Bob Curran in the Grayson Highlands, I could never have imagined that he and I would end up at the top of Mt Katahdin together, some 1700 miles later. We came together by accident and stayed together more by circumstance than by design. That said, each of us acknowledges the positive impact that we both had on each other's hike. As two 66-year-olds we fitted perfectly with one another when it came to hiking style and speed. We weren't the fastest but we were also not the slowest. Our progress was measured and we seemed destined to finish on about the six-month mark. That we were able to finish prior to that is down to Bob's unyielding determination to squeeze out extra miles each day. If it hadn't been for him I'd have been out there a lot longer. Margi Mimms is the first of our Class of 2019 debriefs and, by happy coincidence, Margi was the first of us to finish. She reflects upon her journey. Don't forget, if you have a copy of Paul Stutzman's Hiking Through and would be happy to lend me it, please email me at Steve@mightyblueontheat.com . I will, of course, arranged for its safe return to you.
Thu, September 05, 2019
Episode #182 - Appalachian Trail (Debrief)
Now that I've returned to Florida and had a week off from the podcast, I felt ready to answer a few questions from listeners. There turned out to be so many of them that I had a good friend–and star podcaster–Glenn Hebert doing the honors. Glenn has a way of eliciting nuggets from people and he certainly kept me on my toes the whole time. While I didn't expect to be able to articulate precisely how I was feeling after another 2000+ mile hike, I tried to be as honest as possible in this debrief. I hope that it gives you more insight into the ups and downs of an Appalachian Trail thru-hike. The regular show will return next week, with another guest to entertain and amaze you about the trail that we all love. If you have further questions, about my hike or about the podcast, I'd really love to hear from you at steve@hikingradionetwork.com.
Sat, August 24, 2019
Episode #181 - Appalachian Trail (Day 179)
I wanted to share my last day on the trail with you all. The sound is often distorted through wind and even our paces. That said, I hope you gather from the show my enthusiasm and delight at getting this job done. Don’t forget, we’ll be back to normal service next week, with another guest telling their story, as well as a new book that I’ll be reading for you.
Fri, August 23, 2019
Episode #180 - Appalachian Trail (Days 175 to 178)
With the worst mountains in the 100 Mile Wilderness begins us, Trigger and I had to put in some long days to meet our goal of summiting Katahdin by Friday. The rocks and roots, abetted by some very dubious weather, tried to throw us off our game plan but we persevered. Make sure you listen to the last episode in this series as we try to scale Katahdin. Watch out for that episode in the next 24 hours.
Thu, August 22, 2019
Episode #179 - Appalachian Trail (Days 172 to 174)
Given how lucky we’ve been with the weather so far, I suppose it was only inevitable that the 100 Mile Wilderness gave us four straight days of rain. Rocks and roots are tricky at the driest of times; after rain they can be lethal. Despite this, we have a plan and are currently following it perfectly. Next time you’ll see how it held up through the entire Wilderness.
Fri, August 16, 2019
Episode #178 - Appalachian Trail (Days 168 to 171)
We’ve covered a lot of ground to get here and are now in Monson, ready to hit the 100 Mile Wilderness. The path here hasn’t always been straight (or even northbound), yet we’ve covered every mile and have longed for these final days. There is something almost surreal about what we’re about to do, as climbing Katahdin wasn’t really at the forefront of our minds six months ago. But we’re here and ready for it. Hopefully, that will inspire others to follow us down this whimsical path.
Tue, August 13, 2019
Episode #177 - Appalachian Trail (Days 164 to 167)
Slackpacking the tougher mountains has been a feature of these past four days. With the Saddlebacks, the Crocker’s, then the stunningly beautiful Bigelows, we’ve been treated to (mostly) great weather. Now, past 2000 miles, we’re refining our options for the end of our journey. Hard to believe, really.
Mon, August 12, 2019
Episode #176 - Appalachian Trail (Days 161 to 163)
It’s been a while (again). We’re making progress but the miles are taking their toll and I’m often too tired at the end of the day to record. That said, the miles continue to melt away and we’re closing in on 2000 miles. The Baldpates are the hiking highlight of this episode and we get to meet Yukon and his geodesic sphere.
Tue, August 06, 2019
Episode #175 - Appalachian Trail (Days 158 to 160)
My first, faltering days back from illness led me to Mahoosuc Notch on Day 3. To be frank, I think that I should have stayed another day or two with Gary and Cathy as I clearly wasn’t ready to get back to it. That said, Maine has continued to wow us and is very much not a disappointment after the wonders of New Hampshire. There is an interview with Michael Thorp and his dog, Fecteau. If his story moves you and you’d like to help out with a donation, go to www.pawws.org
Fri, August 02, 2019
Episode #174 - Appalachian Trail (Days 153 to 157)
In a marked contrast to yesterday’s show, this one is a little bit of a doom and gloom episode, with those earlier doubts all coming back to haunt me as I come down with an infection. The trail is an extended lesson in life that will test you throughout. I may be near the end but I’m as susceptible to self-doubt as much as anybody. Seeking sunshine in my cloudy mood, I discover true trail angels and the meaning of real trail magic. If nothing else, that discovery has made the past few days worthwhile.
Thu, August 01, 2019
Episode #173 - Appalachian Trail (Days 149 to 152)
With four days of glorious weather forecast, we couldn’t wait to get stuck into Franconia Ridge and the Presidential Range, highlighted by summiting Mt Washington. We were entertained in a log cabin, driven down, then back up Mt Washington, and experienced the area exactly how I think it should be experienced. This episode has me at my peak on this trip. Join me again tomorrow as I tell you about my unexpected, yet rapid, decline.
Wed, July 24, 2019
Episode #172 - Appalachian Trail (Days 146 to 148)
With Cushy back in the fold, we’re finding more ways to do this hike. Having done Moosilauke, we had to fill in our ten-mile gap AFTER the British Open. We worked it out. Then, most surprising to me, Kinsman blew me away. What a blast. We also had the chance to meet the Wander Women and a terrific young man who played guitar for us.
Tue, July 23, 2019
Episode #171 - Appalachian Trail (Days 143 to 145)
We’re in New Hampshire and starting to put together our highlight reel. We’ve also run into an old friend and teamed up again. The trail has already lived up to expectations, something that I was concerned wouldn’t happen for me the second time around. One more thing. I’ve added to my falls collection!
Wed, July 17, 2019
Episode #170 - Appalachian Trail (Days 137 to 142)
Trigger and I have been separated and are now reunited. I definitely hike better with him! Vermont has been great training for our upcoming adventures in the Whites and beyond. In this episode, we also chat with a SOBO hiker, a “hidden” hostel owner, and discuss giardia with a young woman who plaited the SOBOer’s hair. Only on the Appalachian Trail!
Thu, July 11, 2019
Episode #169 - Appalachian Trail (Days 131 to 136)
Vermont has provided us with mud, mozzies, and views from the top of mountains. We’ve been hiking for 20 straight days and I took the decision to take a zero, splitting with Trigger for about four days. We’ll get back together on Sunday. Vermont has warmed us up for the adventures in New Hampshire and Maine, so I’m sure I’ll one day be grateful for these extra climbs!!
Sat, July 06, 2019
Episode #168 - Appalachian Trail (Days 127 to 130)
We’ve had visitors this week. One had a shirt for me while Trigger’s boys drove 16 hours to hike seven miles with us. The heat in New England has been stifling and certainly took a toll on us. However, the further north we go, the cooler the temperatures should be. No more immediate visitors so we have an opportunity to put in more good miles in the coming days.
Tue, July 02, 2019
Episode #167 - Appalachian Trail (Days 123 to 126)
Still pushing on and now into Massachusetts and past 1550 miles. We’re managing our reduced mileage and taking several breaks during the day is helping us conserve our energy. I’ve now lost about 35 lbs while Trigger has dropped over 40 lbs.
Fri, June 28, 2019
Episode #166 - Appalachian Trail (Days 120 to 122)
With two-thirds of the trail under our feet, the humidity and heat has cranked up to shorten our days. We still aim to finish in the last week of August, but we can see a tougher profile ahead. These past few days have been impacted by, particularly, the humidity and we’ve come to terms that those 20-milers are a thing of the past. That said, we’ve been blessed by friends, new and old.
Tue, June 25, 2019
Episode #165 - Appalachian Trail (Days 115 to 119)
I had a brief day of doubt this week as my body appeared to rebel about the miles I was doing. I soon got over it but even wondered if Lyme Disease was a possibility. I also got the great chance to meet face to face with our very own Dr Lynne, as well as her husband, Bob, and a listener, Eric Gross Jr. Rain slowed us a little last week but the weather is looking good for the coming days.
Thu, June 20, 2019
Episode #164 - Appalachian Trail (Days 112 to 114)
We’ve been incredibly lucky with our management of rain so far but, as with all things, this, too, shall end. The rain is upon us and making the New York rocks slicker and far more dangerous. We have a quandary, in that there are blue-blazes to avoid the rocks but we want to stick with the white blazes as long as we possibly can. This purist streak may well be tested soon.
Mon, June 17, 2019
Episode #163 - Appalachian Trail (Days 109 to 111)
Old friends reunited and new friends met. The trail continues to provide us with serendipitous moments that are the real Trail Magic. Sharing the trail with Trigger, Dodger Dog, Cushy, and a new friend, Barb, has been a delight. I’m fulfilling my desire to watch the last round of each of the Major Golf Championships and zeroing for that purpose today. We’ll be back at it tomorrow. Here we come New York.
Sun, June 16, 2019
Episode #162 - Appalachian Trail (Days 106 to 108)
Pennsylvania has claimed another couple of victims; Trigger and I are VERY glad that it is over. Our feet and shoes have suffered from the sharpness of the rocks and, now that we have entered New Jersey, we were hoping that the rocks were going to improve. Our verdict so far; better but still rocky.
Mon, June 10, 2019
Episode #161 - Appalachian Trail (Days 103 to 105)
Rocks, rocks, and more rocks have made our days tougher but, somewhat perversely, longer and further. We’re taking a zero right now but have racked up an average of almost 20 miles a day for over a week. Two more days and we’ll be out of Pennsylvania and into New Jersey, state #8.
Sat, June 08, 2019
Episode #160 - Appalachian Trail (Days 101 to 102)
Just two days today, with a 35-mile hike into the precipitous descent into Port Clinton. Trigger and I are still together and, as you can see, he has reached for his bug net to keep the flies and mozzies at bay and away from his face. We meet a French Canadian hiker who is taking a novel journey back home and respond to an email from a listener who is concerned at the vitriol on Facebook. As you’d imagine, I have an opinion.
Wed, June 05, 2019
Episode #159 - Appalachian Trail (Days 97 to 100)
We’ve had a productive few days, including the longest day I’ve ever done on the AT. Trigger and I are currently a 2-person “tramily” as Cushy and Dodger Dog are a day ahead. We’ve supported one another and kept each other honest as hikers. The miles are melting away and I’m speculating that I’ll finish earlier than I’d previously imagined.
Sat, June 01, 2019
Episode #158 - Appalachian Trail (Days 94 to 96)
With the tramily now down to two of us, Trigger and I have made steady progress in Pennsylvania. The Mason Dixon Line, the halfway point, and the 1100 mile marker were all passed in quick succession. We’re hoping that Cushy will catch us in the next day or so and that Dodger Dog may slow down so that we can hike with her again. This week, without any interviews, I’ve added some impressions of how some of my gear is working out.
Thu, May 30, 2019
Episode #157 - Appalachian Trail (Days 91 to 93)
The past three days have taken us through Maryland to the edge of Pennsylvania. It didn’t turn out to be the easy state I’d remembered. We were honored to have the company of Laurie Potteiger from ATC as our hiking companion for part of the first day and she was a charming and informative guide to all things AT. Another member of the class of 2019 passed me and I was reminded once more that it isn’t the big animals that you need to watch out for.
Sun, May 26, 2019
Episode #156 - Appalachian Trail (Days 87 to 90)
We’ve made it to Harpers Ferry, the traditional halfway point. I’m tired, sore, and feel accomplished. The tramily is starting to break up, a natural progression as members come and go. With a bit of luck, we’ll reform in a week or so. The good thing about the trail is that these things are fluid, with plenty of opportunities to meet new and old friends as time goes by. Looking forward to the second half.
Sun, May 26, 2019
Episode #155 - Appalachian Trail (Days 84 to 86)
We’ve finished with Shenandoah National Park. It turned out to be a great place that we all thoroughly enjoyed. With Ugh leaving for Trail Days, our little group has been augmented by the lovely Dodger Dog. Her youth and vitality have lifted our spirits. Listeners have continued to reach out and help us while old family friends prove that, as they always do, there is nothing like the love of family.
Mon, May 20, 2019
Episode #154 - Appalachian Trail (Days 78 to 83)
It has been a wonderful six days with the Shenandoah National Park as the backdrop. I’ve been gobsmacked (wonderful English expression) by the kindness of others, with probably the surprise of my life coming on the first morning out of Rockfish Gap. Further “Magic” later in the week confirmed my feeling of being loved.
Wed, May 15, 2019
Episode #153 - Appalachian Trail (Days 74 to 77)
Four days of SOBO and NOBO hiking, with RTK joining us for a couple of very wet, quite testing days. We learn about the attacks and the trail has become a sadder place. How we recover from this desperately sad incident will say a lot about the character of the Class of 2019.
Tue, May 14, 2019
Episode #152 - Appalachian Trail (RTK interviews Mighty Blue)
Bruce Matson (RTK) asks Mighty Blue listeners’ questions, with subjects ranging from interesting characters, food, a comparison between his two AT hikes to lessons learned.
Fri, May 10, 2019
Episode #151 - Appalachian Trail (Days 68 to 73)
The forest is greening up rapidly. Our team is still together but issues are arising. Not between the four of us but in our own physical frailties that this hike examines. I’ve switched out several items from my winter gear and dropped about eight pounds in weight from my pack. The difference is startling. Next week we hit the Shenandoahs. Can’t wait.
Sat, May 04, 2019
Episode #150 - Appalachian Trail (Days 65 to 67)
It has been an epic few days, with the Virginia Triple Crown of Dragon’s Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs now behind us. Once more, new and old friends have shared these extraordinary moments and we’re all grateful for the times we’ve shared together. If you have any questions for me, please send them to Bruce Matson–who will be interviewing me in the next week or so–at rtkchallenge@gmail.com. Bruce will send the best questioners a copy of his new book Platinum Blazing the Appalachian Trail.
Wed, May 01, 2019
Episode #149 - Appalachian Trail (Days 60 to 64)
A week with a new Tramily. It has been fun to hike with Ugh, Cushy Life, and Trigger for the past few days. I’ve been upping my miles to keep up with them but they’ve kept me honest as a hiker. We’re about to hit the Virginia Triple Crown with Dragon’s Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs to come. Can’t wait.
Thu, April 25, 2019
Episode #148 - Appalachian Trail (Days 56 to 59)
Every night in the woods this time. After publishing the last show at Chestnut Knob Shelter I’ve made it the 55 miles to Woods Hole Hostel. Characters are becoming family and we’re caring about their lives as well as our own. Plenty of opportunities for copious eating and even the chance of a dip in a river. We’re nearly 30% of the way through and I continue to be surprised at my progress. Here’s to the next 70%!!!
Mon, April 22, 2019
Episode #147 - Appalachian Trail (Days 52 to 55)
I’ve spent the past four days hiking with my Buddy, Clay Bonnyman Evans. I trimmed back the mileage but have continued to feel better and better as I hiked. We even met some alpacas. As you can see from the pictures, the scenery remains glorious and the view from Chestnut Knob Shelter has to be one of the finest so far in the trail.
Fri, April 19, 2019
Episode #146 - Appalachian Trail (Days 47 to 51)
Three hard hiking days out of Damascus proved the perfect antidote to two days lying on my bed watching sport on TV. I was lucky enough to address some students studying the Appalachian Trail (yes, it’s a thing) while in Damascus. I rested and healed. When I got on the trail I fell right back into it and hiked more than 50 miles in three days, with the last day an impressive–and my first on this trip–twenty miles. I’m being joined over the next few days by a buddy who wanted to come hiking. Looking forward to it.
Sat, April 13, 2019
Episode #145 - Appalachian Trail (Days 43 to 46)
It’s been an exhausting few days and my body is telling me to rest. I’m taking a double zero in Damascus, though I’m still getting in some good mileage days. I’ve visited a couple of great hostels recently and also had a night back in my tent. Tennessee has been wonderful but we’re now into Virginia for the next month and a half. When I move into West Virginia I’ll be nearly halfway there.
Tue, April 09, 2019
Episode #144 - Appalachian Trail (Days 40 to 42)
Another diverse few days, with tiredness, bailouts, glorious views, wonderful people, and poignant stories filling my days. From a sun-filled Carvers Gap I crossed the balds and revealed in both the physicality and the beauty. Then, a totally unexpected evening that filled my heart with joy with a bunch of new friends thrown in. A chance meeting with a listener led to another new and solid friendship that enabled me to complete my longest day and learn a tragic story. Today, a short hike into a wonderful new hostel. Things continue to go my way.
Sat, April 06, 2019
Episode #143 - Appalachian Trail (Days 36 to 39)
More miles and experiences under his belt, Steve is planning ahead to ensure that he extracts the best parts of his hike when the weather is cooperating. He has met up with a listener, spent time with several new people, witnessed the sunset from Beauty Spot, and is coping better and better with big climbs. He reached Carvers Gap today and is relishing a day of balds tomorrow.
Mon, April 01, 2019
Episode #142 - Appalachian Trail (Days 32 to 35)
Another great few days, with weather extremes influencing the hike. Eventually, Steve learned–yet again–the importance of hiking your own hike. He has put in some fairly long days and found himself to be completely exhausted. Eventually, a plan was hatched and he is now in a far better frame of mind.
Thu, March 28, 2019
Episode #141 - Appalachian Trail (Days 29 to 31)
A short few days and a cloudy Max Patch. Getting the mileage up to 14s and 15s but still feeling tired, either through lack of sleep, lack of food, or both. Now in beautiful Hot Springs and enjoying the hospitality at Sunnybank Inn, or Elmer’s. Life is still good.
Mon, March 25, 2019
Episode #140 - Appalachian Trail (Days 24 to 28)
This is the Smokies Part II episode. With five days the cover the mileage may seem unimpressive. However, within those five days, there are two “nearos” and a “zero.” This has been a pretty brutal few days with snow, bone-jarring cold, warmth, slush, and a seemingly endless climb down out of these iconic mountains. In retrospect, I think that, while I’m glad they are over, the Smokies will stay in my mind long after the snow has melted and I’m pushing my way through Virginia.
Thu, March 21, 2019
Episode #139 - Appalachian Trail (Days 20 to 23)
It’s Smokies Week on the show and plenty of uphills on the way to Clingmans Dome. I became part of, and lost, my first tramily, and loved my time with them. I also met the very sweet Little Foot (follow her YouTube channel “Hike with Little Foot”) and the enormously positive Posi (@MattBurnsFat on Facebook and Instagram). I even hiked with Ryan Hopkins and his buddy Chris. Ryan is the man putting this show out every week. It was great to meet up with both of them. Now, I’m alone again and getting out of the Smokies in a couple of days. Max Patch and Hot Springs are upcoming highlights.
Sun, March 17, 2019
Episode #138 - Appalachian Trail (Days Seventeen to Nineteen)
Another few days with varying fortunes. The week started disastrously with the loss of a vital piece of equipment. The views continued to make the heart fly and the Smoky Mountain got closer and closer. Along the way, the humanity of hikers was on full display, especially one night in a very full shelter (Picture thanks to Ashley “Boomer” Enders). These are the evenings to relish and the ones that will stick in my mind long after the hike is over. Now, after my longest day, I’m set to tackle the Smokies from Sunday and hope to report back after I reach Newfound Gap. Bring ‘em on.
Thu, March 14, 2019
Episode #137 - Appalachian Trail (Days Fourteen to Sixteen)
Another three-day stint between stops in town took Steve from Franklin to Nantahala Outdoor Center. Before he even left Franklin, however, he started with one of the finest breakfasts that he has ever had. Listen to what he had. Another view, this time with Rowemer in the foreground, was taken from about 5,000 feet elevation. The rain has stayed away and an opportunity to catch a perfect sunrise came just north of Cold Spring Shelter. While the picture doesn’t do justice to the moment, you can see how a dry day can paint such gorgeous pictures in the sky.
Mon, March 11, 2019
Episode #136 - Appalachian Trail (Days Ten to Thirteen)
The trail has been testing this past four days. Steve left Dick’s Creek Gap last Thursday morning and has now reached Franklin NC after three nights in the woods. 48 hours of rain and not enough food has been testing but he has managed to push through. He is already learning how different his two journeys are going to be, with new challenges making him manage his clothing a little differently to last time. He has met a few families along the trail and two of them share their stories this week.
Thu, March 07, 2019
Episode #135 - Appalachian Trail (Days Seven to Nine)
It has been an emotional three days for Steve as he faced up to his first real adversity. He knew it would happen, he was even expecting it, yet his emotional reaction took even Steve by surprise. It just reinforced his belief that the Trail impacts us all in different and often unexpected ways. He has now reached Dick’s Creek Gap, at Mile 69.2, and has zeroed to reassess his pack and to restore his slightly bruised ego. He’ll be back at it tomorrow (Thursday).
Sun, March 03, 2019
Episode #134 - Appalachian Trail (Days Four to Six)
Now six days in, Steve is getting into something of a rhythm. His toes are hurting a little, though nothing too serious. He is constantly on the lookout for individual stories but only includes one today because he lost touch with his next intended “victims” in the bad weather today. With frigid weather in the forecast, he will be planning the next few days to carefully consider his options.
Fri, March 01, 2019
Episode #133 - Appalachian Trail (Days One to Three)
Steve is on his way and trying to adjust to his new lifestyle. So far, he has kept to the schedule he gave himself and finished day three in Suches. It has brought back memories from his first thru-hike, with a bunch of new characters already emerging. He is listening to other people’s stories and is starting to bring them to the show. There is also a magical moment when a young woman plays the violin at the top of a mountain as the mist and cloud swirl around her. Don’t forget to follow along twice a week as Steve podcasts from the trail. If you want to support the production of this and other Hiking Radio Network shows, please donate via PayPal at https://mightyblueontheat.com/the-podcast/ . Just scroll down the page on your phone to find the PayPal button or look at the top of the side panel if you’re on a laptop, desktop or some tablets.
Thu, February 21, 2019
Episode #132 - Megan Dolman (Giggles) and Mark Bychowski (Pepperjack)
When Megan (from the UK) and Mark (an American) started their respective hikes on March 5, 2018, neither could have imagined how their lives were about to change. They met that first day–Megan was the very first person who Mark met on the trail–and started hiking together the following morning. Their meeting and the unfolding of their hike reflects the serendipity of the Appalachian Trail and they summited together five months later. When they had finished, Mark put together this short video of their hike at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GAHFsEhANt0 while Megan blogged about their journey at https://megdolmanat2018.wordpress.com/ Bruce Matson came on the show to share news of his successful fundraising efforts on behalf of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and shared some news of his upcoming book to add more funds to the ATC. If you'd like to see more of Bruce's hike and efforts, go to http://www.rtkchallenge.com/ and https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgs4kgtMJPGslFSwHkgkesQ/featured. This is the last show in its current form and, from next week, I'll be on the AT. If you'd like to follow along, why not check out these sites. I'm on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/HikingRN/ , Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/hikingradionetwork/ , and YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpTCOIGPxoau_6aGohYpUPg/videos For now, though, I'd like to leave with our young couple who found love on the Appalachian Trail; Megan and Mark.
Thu, February 14, 2019
Episode #131 - Suzanne Dixon (Irish Fire)
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is THE critical component in a healthy trail for hikers, both now and for the future. Suzanne Dixon is the President and CEO of the ATC and in this week's show, she tells us about the exciting new initiative that the ATC has recently launched. Mighty Blue on the Appalachian Trail is lucky to have the first media interview about this initiative, called The Wild East. The poster below will give you some of the flavor of the Wild East and there is a new website specifically about the project. https://wildeast.appalachiantrail.org/ Suzanne has worked in conservation for much of her working life and is a passionate advocate of both the ATC and this initiative. Listen to her as she tells us about the Wild East and learn how you can assist in preserving the trail for future generations. Then, to find out more about how you can help, visit www.appalachiantrail.org Lisa Rana tells us about her recent journey on the strenuous Grafton Loop Trail. If you'd like to see more of this trail, check out the two videos that Lisa has linked us to. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvvO-xOQLFw&t=6s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiaTo8lVeN8&t=678s Finally, we have reached the last few chapters of The Year We Seized the Day, by Elizabeth Best and Colin Bowles. I hope that you enjoyed hearing me and my lovely niece Laura over the past few months. When I return from this year's attempt on the Appalachian Trail I'll be reading Paul Stutzman's great book–a personal favorite of mine–Hiking Through: One Man's Journey to Peace and Freedom on the Appalachian Trail.
Thu, February 07, 2019
Episode #130 - Paul Maguire (Irish Paul)
As soon as I started speaking with Paul Maguire I knew we'd get on well. He has that cheeky Irish lilt to his voice with a smile just under the surface, ready to make an appearance at a moment's notice. Paul retired and was looking for something to do when the AT caught his attention. Unlike some, though, he didn't go straight to the trail. He hiked in Ireland for a while before spreading his wings and touring Europe with a kayak, his bike, and his backpack. He even took a major detour up Mount Kilimanjaro. Eventually, Paul made it to the East Coast of the US and headed north. What he found was a delightful surprise, as I'm sure he was to his fellow travelers. We also have Margi Miims this week, the eighth and final member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2019. Margi and all our class members are hoping to beat the odds and complete the trail by the end of this hiking season. I hope you stick around and follow our journeys. For now, though, let's finish with a beaming Irish Paul.
Thu, January 31, 2019
Episode #129 - Lea Ann Hogan and Lotta Anvret
Another two members of the Mighty Blue Class of 2019 this week. Lea Ann Hogan and Lotta Anvret have given to others all their lives. They are a nurse and a special needs teacher respectively and feel the time is right to do something for themselves. Lea Ann (on the right below) has a calm determination to succeed and Lotta (on the left below) is flying in from Sweden in the hope that she can finish within her six-month visa. She is hoping that she meets a friendly Homeland Security agent at the gate!
Thu, January 24, 2019
Episode #128 - Tyler Lau (The Prodigy)
The awesome Tyler Lau is a man on a mission. Not only has he completed a Calendar Year Triple Crown, but he is also working for more diversity on the trails of America. An Asian American, he volunteers to support his various social projects and truly walks the walk. He started a Go Fund Me page to sponsor the various causes. You can find that at www.gofundme.com/8000milesto8000smiles . He hasn't had the chance to fully absorb the scale of his walking achievement and is slowly adjusting to life back with other people. Tyler's experience is considerably different from many others, with the sheer size of his hike pushing him to eschew the traditional end of one hike as he heads to another. That he took on this task to be a catalyst for change is a fine example of using his outdoor skills to benefit others. You can follow Tyler on several platforms: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HikingProdigy-202569297197744/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hikingprodigy/ He has a website currently under construction which will be available soon: http://www.hikingprodigy.com/ Similarly, his YouTube channel is under construction and will be at hikingprodigy when it is available. If you'd like to reach out to Tyler, his email address is hikingprodigy@gmail.com We return to my non-preparation for my upcoming hike of the AT. Listeners have offered their input and some decisions are hardening. Hopefully, by the time I get onto the trail, I'll be ready.
Thu, January 17, 2019
Episode #127 - Randy Forest (PT)
When Randy Forrest reached out to me so that he could tell his own story of hiking the Appalachian Trail as a member of the Class of 2018, I knew straight away that I'd found a man changed by the experience. Like many people, Randy came to the trail via YouTube, comments made in passing, and the end of his career. The challenge appealed to him, so he planned accordingly. We all rely upon good fortune to get us to the end and most of us fear a hike-ending injury. A fractured ankle would normally fall into that category but Randy wasn't to be denied. Ignoring his doctor, Randy hurried back to the trail to pursue his dream and made it all the way, seven months after setting out. You can follow some of his journey on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXTUWYqN3qb_kQgaE8zG5lg, as well as Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/randy.forrest.79 and Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/rforrest719/ . In my preparations for my upcoming hike, you'll hear that I'm still second (sometimes third) guessing myself and making about as much progress at this stage as I'd always expected to make, ie, very little.
Thu, January 10, 2019
Episode #126 - Dawanna Blue (Sally Forth)
Dawanna Blue is a self-confessed high-maintenance hiker. She is a member of the Class of 2018 and her hike was five years in the making. Having arrived at the trail, she soon discovered that she preferred a hotel or a hostel to her tent or a shelter. Despite this aversion to one of the main parts of a thru-hike, Dawanna shaped her walk to make it the best experience for her. She embraced slackpacking and found all the other elements of the hike to be a joy, with new friends to be found throughout her journey. The picture above shows her with previous Mighty Blue guest, Chrissy Funk. Dawanna had many moments of doubt, often leaving the trail, always to return when the Appalachian Trail called her back. A flip-flopper, she shared the finish of Katahdin with others, aware that she still had about 900 miles to go. Feeling broken by the effort to get to Katahdin, she was revitalized when she returned to Shenandoah to head south, finishing her hike with her son at Springer. You can see more pictures from her journey on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/wyld_blue_wander/ Don't forget to help Steve prepare for his second Appalachian Trail thru-hike by suggesting gear that he may like. Email him at steve@mightyblueontheat.com or go to https://mightyblueontheat.com/contact/ to leave a voice message for him.
Thu, January 03, 2019
Episode #125 - Dan Harris (Scars)
Dan Harris spent many years in the CIA, little suspecting that he'd one day use those problem-solving skills to take on a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. He has battled cancer and stood at Springer Mountain with just one lung. Undeterred, he pushed forward with a never-say-die attitude that was tested when he sustained a knee injury in the Smokeys. Dan adapted his hiking gait to accommodate both his knee and his lack of lung capacity, pushing on and accumulating friends and experiences along the way. He shares some of those observations and experiences in our conversation. Given the treatment he had received in battling cancer, Dan also chose to use his hike to raise funds for the Cancer Research Institute. If you'd like to donate post-hike, head on over to https://fundraise.cancerresearch.org/fundraiser/1578411 Dan also started a YouTube channel to share his story. You can find that here. https://www.youtube.com/c/ThruHikingwithScars . When he reached Maine, Dan was joined by his wife, Random, and the two of them were able to share the sweet moment of climbing Katahdin together. This week, I started a short middle section that is going to be an interactive section that helps me accumulate my gear and prepare for my 2019 hike. Please join in and send me a message, preferably through SpeakPipe. Find it here. https://mightyblueontheat.com/contact/
Thu, December 27, 2018
Episode #124 - Greg Behrens (GBolt)
One of our sister shows on the Hiking Radio Network, Returning to Katahdin, featured Bruce Matson's successful attempt to fulfill his 44-year dream of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. Greg Behrens accompanied Bruce for much of the last two states in this journey. Each man had a significant impact on the success of the other man's hike. Greg felt called to the trail and discovered much, not only about himself but also the trail. He formed new friendships, strengthened an already strong faith, and was able to get to the end through a combination of both. You can see more of Greg's AT adventure on his YouTube channel, GBolt on a Trail, at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCik_4AcN_NPHW7vu3vhRBGA/videos?view_as=subscriber . You can also read his Trail Journal at http://www.trailjournals.com/journal/entry/577754 Carlton Johnson is the last of our Class of 2019 adventurers. His journey has already started, in that he attempted a thru-hike in 2016 which came to an unhappy end. Read about that as he prepares for the second attempt next year. http://www.trailjournals.com/vagabundo As you'll hear in the main interview, Greg is a spiritual man, so let's leave him in silent prayer in front of Katahdin's iconic sign.
Thu, December 20, 2018
Episode #123 - Jessie Greger (Pipes)
Choosing what to eat on the trail normally ends in Snickers, ramen noodles, or pasta and rice sides. While these certainly give you instant energy, the long- and even some of the short-term effects aren't exactly optimal. What if you had a healthy alternative that gave you more and longer-lasting energy, weighed less, and gave you a sense of well-being, rather than a bunch of highs and lows? Jessie Greger believes that she has found that alternative. Jessie was living on a ketogenic diet and found that it suited her so well that she decided to hike the PCT on that diet. While she knew that it would be difficult to do it logistically, she enlisted her boyfriend as her supply buddy and set out. It worked like a dream. Apart from an irresistible pancake challenge, her keto diet proved to be not only possible but in many ways preferable. She didn't experience those sugar rushes and lows and she found that her energy lasted longer than most other hikers. She probably needed it when she ran into scenes like the one below. On her return home, she started Next Mile Meals, which provides some of the meals that she took with her, as well as information and recipes for keto eating. You can check out her website at http://nextmilemeals.com/ while she can be found on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/nextmilemeals/ If you'd like to learn more about the benefits of hiking on this diet, read her blog post on the subject https://www.nextmilemeals.com/blog/keto-and-ultralight-backpacking The latest member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2019 is Katy Amphlett. Katy has quit her job as a kindergarten teacher and has been preparing carefully for her journey. We wish her the best of luck. Last, let's finish with Jessie and the contrasting pictures of her at the beginning and the end of her PCT journey.
Thu, December 13, 2018
Episode #122 - Michael Duncan (Crispy)
Michael Duncan completed his thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2017. Since the time he touched the brown sign on the top of Katahdin, the sadness of that moment has never left him. By that, he means that he knew his journey was over and he has yearned for that feeling again. He has always been comfortable in the outdoors, with the AT a target for several years. He prepared assiduously, watching YouTube videos of Dixie and Darwin to work out the logistics of thru-hiking, then finding a buddy, Austin, to start the trail with. As every hiker discovers, relationships are fluid on the trail and when his buddy had to quit, Michael saw it as an opportunity to discover more about himself as a hiker, finding a new "tramily" in the process. You can follow Michael through his Instagram account at adventureswithduncan . We also met another young man–a member of the Mighty Blue Class of 2019–Matthew Ansart. Matthew possesses a strong streak of determination to complete his hike and I'm looking forward to catching up with him on the trail next year. Finally, we'll finish with a shot of Michael and his girlfriend (now wife), Cameron, together at the top of Katahdin.
Thu, December 06, 2018
Episode #121 - Dave Paumen (CBiscuit)
I interviewed Dave Paumen at 5:30 in the morning as he was about to enter the 100 Mile Wilderness. I was struck by his calm intelligence and his story. A Vietnam Veteran, he had demonstrated a cold-eyed determination in his life and brought that personality trait to the trail. He had been injured in his first attempt in 2017 but returned to complete his hike this year. Dave's solid common sense shines through in both the interview and his journals of the two, linked hikes. Read the journals at http://trailjournals.com/davepaumen17 and http://trailjournals.com/davepaumen18 Our Mighty Blue Class of 2019 continued with the introduction of an experienced hiker, Tina Dunaway. Tina has had the AT on her bucket list for several years and is ready to get at it. We'll be checking in with Tina from time to time while we're both on the trail. Let's finish with the triumphant Dave at the top of Mt Katahdin.
Thu, November 29, 2018
Episode #120 - Nate Stockton (Turd Ferguson)
As I'll be hiking the AT myself in 2019, I won't be able to follow one hiker as closely as I did with Jessa in 2017 and Bruce this year in the Returning to Katahdin podcast. So, in an effort to still follow some of these adventurers, I'm starting a new series of five interviews with members of this incoming class. The segment will normally support the main interview, but this we have a full interview with Nate Ferguson as the first member of the Class of 2019. Nate and I are fellow, members of the Fat Guys, and Gals, Back in the Woods hiking group. What originally started out as a ten- to fifteen-minute chat turned into a full-on interview and I thought it would be a great way to introduce the new series. Nate is fun to be around on a hike and, along with the other members who we'll be featuring, I hope to be able to get some of their early–and perhaps later–thoughts on the trail once their hikes get underway. Dan Wowak is back with what he refers to as the four critical survival priorities in the wilderness. As before, his clear guidance is really worth listening to. If you'd like to contact Dan for further information or tips, reach out to him at danwowak@coalcrackerbushcraft.com You can also check out his YouTube channel under Coalcracker Bushcraft or click on this link .
Thu, November 22, 2018
Episode #119 - Darwin
Darwin is a relatively new thru-hiker, having hit and completed the Appalachian Trail in 2015. Yet his YouTube channel is hugely popular, with over 135,000 subscribers at the time of writing. His articulate, information-laden content is of great help to hikers old and new. Darwin and his wife, Snuggles, sold most of their belongings in 2014 and radically altered their lifestyle, preferring to travel constantly as they had adventures. While the two of them shared the Appalachian Trail thru-hike, for Snuggles it was a "one and done" deal. So now, with Darwin on various trails, Snuggles writes and takes the occasional road trip. You can connect with Darwin in several different ways. He's on Facebook at http://facebook.com/darwin.onthetrail, on Instagram at http://instagram.com/darwin_onthetrail, while his YouTube channel can be found at http://youtube.com/darwinonthetrail He also has a website, which you can find at http://darwinonthetrail.com/ We had a nice chat with Bruce Matson as he told of his fund-raising venture for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. Remember, Bruce has arranged $100,000 of matching funds, so if you contribute your donation will be worth twice that amount to fund the invaluable work of the folks at the Conservancy. To make your donation, please click on this link http://www.rtkchallenge.com/support/
Thu, November 15, 2018
Episode #118 - Stephanie Lorenze (Sunshine)
For many people, hiking the Appalachian Trail is the culmination of a lifelong dream. There may be issues that they don't want to face, they may be grieving the loss of somebody. For many, the trail is spiritual in nature. For Stephanie Lorenze, eating unlimited pizza was her initial motivation. Despite this unlikely catalyst, Stephanie grew to love the trail and everything on it. She faced doubters at the outset, yet she pushed on, confidence growing in her own abilities to complete the journey. She chose to define her own life and didn't permit the negativity to deflect her from the goal of standing on that brown sign at the top of Katahdin. In the end, she had the perfect answer to everybody who doubted that she would be able to get to the end. If you'd like to contact Stephanie, her Facebook profile is https://www.facebook.com/steph.lorenze
Mon, November 12, 2018
Episode #117 - Camino De Santiago (Days Thirty-one to Thirty-three)
With just two days and about 32 miles left, Steve and Emma just had to contend with the torrential rain to get to Santiago. While the journey proved to be a spiritual experience for many, the Pilgrim mass at the end was spectacular in its gravity and grave in its spectacle. The incense burner heightened those thoughts as it seemed to crash through the long aisles. After 32 days and nearly 500 miles, our two adventurers made it to their ultimate destination, cold, wet, but very happy with their achievement. If you’d like to contact Steve don’t forget to email him at steve@mightyblueontheat.com
Thu, November 08, 2018
Episode #116 - Camino De Santiago (Days Twenty-eight to Thirty)
It’s been a tough few days since Steve found out that he’d miscalculated the miles per day required to finish by this Friday. Emma and Steve have stepped up their mileage to make up for the mistake. The two travelers have been responding to the kilometer markers by shouting down the reducing distance to Santiago. One of the lasting memories of this trip will be the convivial meetings between pilgrims, with beers and coffees shared over conversation. Steve and Emma enthusiastically embrace this convention!! If you’d like to contact Steve don’t forget to email him at steve @mightyblueontheat.com
Mon, November 05, 2018
Episode #115 - Camino De Santiago (Days Twenty-four to Twenty-seven)
With almost 400 miles to their credit, Emma and Steve can hardly believe the luck they’ve had with the weather. Even where it has snowed there still seems to be a pristine path for them both. Steve’s favorite day was last Friday, when the two of them went through Ponferrada. The castle that greeted them in the early morning sun was a surprise and a treat. As the day went on, the two of them knew that they were on the verge of a 20-mile day. That prospect is made much easier when you’re surrounded by so much beauty in the evening sun. If you’d like to contact Steve don’t forget to email him at steve @mightyblueontheat.com
Thu, November 01, 2018
Episode #114 - Camino De Santiago (Days Twenty-one to Twenty-three)
With Steve and Emma now firmly choosing to hike and stay at hotels as opposed to auberges, the hunt for bargains is on. Luckily, Steve is ready for the task! The weather has been threatening for several days but our hikers seem to be leading blessed lives and avoiding the worst of the weather. After several cold and potentially wet days, the weather looks set for the next five days. People continue to brighten every day with a shared camaraderie that often finds friends in every bar. If you’d like to contact Steve don’t forget to email him at steve@mightyblueontheat.com
Mon, October 29, 2018
Episode #113 - Camino De Santiago (Days Seventeen to Twenty)
The injuries continue but the Meseta is nearly done. Now, with less than 200 miles to go, there is snow on the horizon. We’ve had beautiful sunrises, spooky moon settings, and even a Cider Guy. Steve received a picture tonight of the settling snow several miles ahead, so he and Emma, even though they’ve reached León, still need to tread carefully in the coming days. The Meseta has been a dour place to traverse, so it was an excellent diversion to meet and be instructed on how to pour cider by the Cider Guy.
Thu, October 25, 2018
Episode #112 - Camino De Santiago (Days Fourteen to Sixteen)
With about 50 miles for the past three days, Steve and Emma have been making their way through the Meseta, finding gems like the town of Hontanas and its gloriously lit church. Their middle was all about the beauty of Castrojeriz and the way it dominates its surroundings. The weath er is also starting to turn, with frigid temps in the mornings and fears of snow in the near future. If you’d like to communicate with Steve, please email him at Steve@mightyblueontheat.com .
Mon, October 22, 2018
Episode #111 - Camino De Santiago (Days Ten to Thirteen)
With a need to up their mileage, Steve has set a target of 15.45 miles a day to get to Santiago. They take regular breaks for coffee and beer on the way and recently saw this charming mobile bar. The weather hasn’t been great for the past few days, though they have by and large avoided any substantial rainfall. This reduces their opportunities for longer views, though a clearing cloud revealed this on Saturday. While often hiking alongside one another, Emma’s pace often takes her ahead of Steve, hence regular shots of Emma powering ahead. If you’d like to communicate with Steve, please email him at Steve@mightyblueontheat.com .
Thu, October 18, 2018
Episode #110 - Camino De Santiago (Days Seven to Nine)
This week, Emma gets stuck in an elevator, a red squirrel gets way too close for comfort and Steve continues his transformation into Old Father Time. All the while, Steve and Emma continue to get into the rhythm of their hike. They ache a little bit more and they whinge and moan a little bit more but, underneath it all, they are improving with every day and planning an even faster hike. Emma now wants to be at Santiago by November 10, so Steve has set a tougher schedule to see if they can achieve their desired outcome. So far, the two of them are getting to grips with the new plan. What could possibly go wrong?
Mon, October 15, 2018
Episode #109 - Camino De Santiago (Days Two to Six)
Our two intrepid adventurers have been on the trail for six days and have fallen a day behind schedule. They have sustained injuries, aches, and pains but continue westward towards Santiago. They have met fellow travelers, shared meals with others, and spent time together over a few beers, red wine, and brandy. They even met up with their very own ghost. This trail isn’t the walk in the park that some people seem to believe. The miles still need to be hiked, and the climbs and descents need to be tackled. On the way, Steve and Emma have met pilgrim after pilgrim and this time, one such pilgrim shares his family’s story. If you’d like to learn more about Kelley and his family, follow their blog at wander4purpose.com or follow them on Instagram at the same name.
Thu, October 11, 2018
Episode #108 - Camino De Santiago (Days One and Two)
This is something of an experimental podcast. We're trying out several ways of doing this so the sound won't be perfect but it should be listenable. Steve is on his way and finding it far tougher than he had ever imagined. Things can only get better!
Thu, October 04, 2018
Episode #107 - Deanna McGregor (Mary Poppins)
This is a kind of crossover episode that keeps many of the "usual" parts of the Mighty Blue show but incorporates and transitions us over to the Camino show. Deanna McGregor hiked the Camino in 2017 as a truly spiritual experience and returned this year with her sons, 12-year-old Daniel and 16-year-old Jonathan. We speak twice with Deanna; once prior to her setting out, when she tells us about her evolution as a hiker and her experiences on the Camino last year. Once she had returned from this year's trip we caught up with her again as she reflected upon how the journey with her two boys had transpired. Needless to say, there were significant differences. You can follow this year's hike with Deanna on her YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/LupeShoes Also on the show, we have Dan Richards, CEO of Global Rescue. I'd originally intended to interview somebody about insurance available to hikers, as I'm aware that this is a regular topic of discussion for some people. Dan turned out to easily cover that base, even though he isn't an insurance guy. What Global Rescue do turned out to be far more interesting than just boring old insurance. Check out the website at https://www.globalrescue.com/
Thu, September 27, 2018
Episode #106 - Tenny Ostrem and Claire Wernstedt-Lynch (Aspen and Eleven)
For Claire and Tenny, hiking the CDT had been an ambition but they soon decided that they needed to do something else. Between the two of them, they hatched a plan to walk the entire length of the Southern Border of the US, stretching from San Diego in the west to Brownsville and the Gulf of Mexico in Texas to the east. Here's Claire. With no defined trail, the two of them set out to make their way and learn about the issues on both sides. It was an eye-opening experience for both women. Here's Tenny. They were able to experience the kindness of strangers and the desperation of the disenfranchised. They each said that many of their pre-conceived notions were overturned by their experience. On the way, the two women wrote an excellent blog that mapped out what they saw. If you'd like to read it, go to https://walktheborder.com/ and, for pictures, you can follow them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/clairetenny.walktheborder/ The last five interviewees from the Outdoor Retailers Summer Market in Denver were: Andrew Sidel, of Four Points, selling his slow-burning energy bars. You can learn more at https://www.fourpointsbar.com/ Brandon Rodriguez showed me the Spark, a new knee support combining kinesiology taping and compression. This IS NOT currently available but will be out sometime towards the end of October or early November. The link (at that time) will be https://www.brownmed.com/spark . Once again, THIS LINK DOESN"T CURRENTLY TAKE YOU ANYWHERE. Come back in November. Nicole Farah of Teva introduced me to a new shoe and suggested a good Teva for a long-distance hike. Go to https://www.teva.com/ for more. Kent Hernandez of Bucklegear ( https://www.bucklegear.com/ ) AND Bad Raccoon ( https://www.badraccoonco.com/ ) showed me two excellent items; the Camp Gear Hanger and some old school–but new designs–handerchiefs. Finally, Tim Richard shared the story of Oboz and how they give back to the outdoors. https://obozfootwear.com
Thu, September 20, 2018
Episode #105 - Cindy Ross
As a writer, Cindy Ross must be feeling fulfilled. She has published seven books about hiking and educating in the outdoors. However, it is as a hiker that she established her bona fides to write these books. She has completed the Triple Crown and realized the value of educating her children while on these trails. Memorably, Cindy and her husband, Todd Gladfelter, spent five summers completing the Continental Divide Trail with their two children–on llamas. Cindy's bio says "Cindy and her husband learned how experiences can generate extraordinary learning" and they put that realization into practice by providing their own children with the platform to learn in the outdoors. You can reach Cindy via email at cindyrosstraveler@gmail.com and read more about her on her blog, http://www.cindyrosstraveler.com/ . If you'd like to read her latest book, check out http://www.theworldisourclassroombook.com/ . For ALL of her books, just click on her author's page in Amazon, https://www.amazon.com/Cindy-Ross/e/B001IZTEJE/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1537396207&sr=8-1 This week in our Outdoor Retailers Summer Market roundup, we spoke with the following people: Sourya Ghosh and Dale Pendleton of Soul Inventions, who had brought their Solar Scroll, an innovative solar charger that will shortly be available. You can check out this fascinating device at https://soulinventions.com/ Hugo Davidson, of Knog, introduced me to the Bandicoot Headlamp, after an astonishingly successful Kickstarter campaign. The best way to see this is through their Kickstarter page at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1951570531/the-bandicoot-headlamp, though you can learn more about Knog at https://www.knog.com.au/the-bandicoot Tiasha Renganathan introduced me to some of the stuff that she is working on with Twinery, including their Phoenix Active Heating Platform. Learn more about the exciting innovations at Twinery at http://twinery.co/
Thu, September 13, 2018
Episode #104 - Ben, Kami, Dove, Seven, Eden, Memory, Filia, and Ranier Crawford
The story of the Crawfords has been one of the most prominent Appalachian Trail stories of the year. Their seemingly quixotic adventure didn't seem in the least bit strange to them. After all, they had been hiking as a family for some years so the AT appeared to be a natural extension to that as they tried to capture one last hike together before the children started to leave home. As YouTube viewers, this adventure divided us, with some critics castigating Ben and Kami, while others embraced them with an equally ferocious love. We watched them spend the night in the snow-covered Smokeys on a bathroom floor, only to be confronted by the child protection services the following morning. We saw them grow as a family as each child assumed tasks to help take their journey to fruition. By the time they reached Katahdin, most had come to applaud their resilience, with almost unheard-of support through the 100-Mile Wilderness. Baxter State Park refused to allow an exception to their rules of taking children under a certain age up to the top of Katahdin, so the family decided–unanimously–to finish the way they had started, as a family. You can follow their vlog on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/c/FightforTogether and their Instagram account at https://www.instagram.com/fightfortogether/ This week's segment from the Outdoor Retailer's Summer Market from Denver concentrated upon the claims made by manufacturers and the applicability of science to the process. I spoke with Dr. Jan Beringer of Hohenstein. You can find out more about their textile testing by visiting https://www.hohenstein.de/ You can reach Dr. Jan at j.beringer@hohenstein.de There is a translate button on the site for English speakers. Dr. Jan directed me to Shawn Flavin of Coolcore, who is a strong proponent of these stringent tests. As the Director of Textile Engineering, he explained some of the processes that they use. To find out more, go to https://www.coolcore.com/ where you'll find some cool products. You can reach Shawn at sflavin@coolcore.com
Thu, September 06, 2018
Episode #103 - Jennifer Pharr Davis (Odyssa)
Jennifer Pharr Davis is a woman on a mission. She wants to get people into the outdoors and, not only does she want to do it, she actually gets it done. Her Blue Ridge Hiking Company provides guided trips into the woods and over mountains, bringing many people who would never have considered going onto a trail before they came to her. She has hiked over 14,000 miles of long-distance trails all over the world, including what was then the Fastest Known Time on the Appalachian Trail of 46 days, 11 hours, and 20 minutes. She has been the National Geographic Adventurer of the Year and written five books. Between this frenzy of activity, she also finds time to be a wife and a mother. As you'd imagine, Jennifer is everywhere, so connect with her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jenpharrdavis/?hl=en, or learn about her guided hikes at http://www.blueridgehikingco.com/ . She tweets at https://twitter.com/jenpharrdavis?lang=en and https://twitter.com/blueridgehiking, while you can find her on Facebook at both https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.p.davis.3/ and https://www.facebook.com/blueridgehikingco/?ref=hl . If you'd like to see a short YouTube video about her new book, The Pursuit of Endurance, click here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-g9kyzWP6o From the Outdoor Retailer Show in Denver, this week's guests were Douglas Ruchevsky of Case Knives. Douglas showed me several camping knives, including the Kickstart Knife and the Southern Grind. You can find these at https://caseknives.com/ Matt Fitzgerald of Cauldryn showed me his "Swiss Army Knife of Travel Mugs," an impressive device that controls the temperature of your coffee through your Bluetooth-enabled phone, as well as performing a bunch of other tasks. See what Matt was talking about at https://cauldryn.com/ Claire Kooperman very kindly gave me a pair of Injinji toe socks. These turned out to be exceptionally comfortable. You can find more about these at https://www.injinji.com/
Thu, August 30, 2018
Episode #102 - Will Ransom (Bear Spray or Ever Changing)
I met Will Ransom at Trail Day in 2017 and was impressed by the bond that he shared with his dog, Rhetta. I'd hoped to interview him for the show but lost his details, only to find them recently when I moved home. Will was a fascinating guy to talk with as he had strong views on how to care for your dog when on a trail. He had told me at Trail Days that he intended to summit Katahdin with Rhetta, but experience, other people, and his good nature prevailed. So, Will had to flip up to Katahdin where he summited alone. However, Will wasn't to be denied finishing the Appalachian Trail with Rhetta. They finished, together, at Bennington Vermont. If you've ever thought about taking your dog with you on a long-distance hike listen and learn from Will's experiences. Our three guests from the Outdoor Retailer's Summer Market are: Aaron Kirkham of Renovo Water, with the MUV water filter. You can read much more about this remarkably versatile product at http://renovowater.com/about-muv/ or contact Aaron at aaronk@renovowater.com Lara Brecht showed me the Espro Ultralight Travel Press, which not only makes great coffee but keeps it great, and hot for hours. The results were really impressive. You can read more about the Ultralight at http://www.esprocanada.com/esproshop/espro-ultralight-press and contact Lara at lara@espro.ca. Cade Rees of Klymit showed me my new favorite set up, with the Sky Bivy. I've added a few pics to show you what it looked like. You can read about it yourself at https://www.klymit.com/sky-bivy.html or contact Cade at cade.rees@klymit.com Greg Seymour (Sunsets) made a welcome return to the show with two things he would do differently in If I Did It Again. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals. Obviously, we couldn't finish without another picture of Rhetta (and Will).
Thu, August 23, 2018
Episode #101 - Pat Coate (Tee Bird)
For the second week, I'm reminiscing with the two people I was closest to on the trail. Last week, Ken Hall closed out the first 100, so the NEXT 100 shows start off with Pat Coate, or Tee Bird. I met Pat earlier than Ken. I was nursing an injury after about 1200 miles and ran into her and her fellow hikers. We started chatting and all felt the need for a beer, so we hitched a lift in a fruitless search for one. We just found ice cream but I found a friend. Pat was then often hiking near me and we got back together in New Hampshire once I'd met Ken. She was always "up" on the trail and proved to be a great hiking companion. She certainly took over the responsibility of slackpacking once Ken and I had put it to her. She maintained those responsibilities by planning our ill-fated John Muir Trail hike in 2016. Once again, all Ken and I had to do was show up. We knew how to do that. Our three guests this week from the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in Denver are: Patrick Goguillon of Parakito showed me the innovative wristband repellent. You can see the products at https://us.parakito.com/ and can reach out to Patrick at patrick@parakito.com Monty Griffith from Bridgford Foods Corporation showed me the MRE Survival Food that the company is introducing to the hiking community. The link will take you to one of their products on Amazon . You can reach Monty at mgriffith@@bridgford.com . Finally, I spoke with Justine Barone, a feisty woman with an intriguing platform to help hikers rent their gear. Justine is the Co-Founder and CEO at Gearo and she'd be happy to hear from you at jb@outdoorgearo.com . You should also check out her website at https://outdoorgearo.com/ In a new segment for the show, I invited Dan Wowak of Coal Cracker Bushcraft to tell us how to safely build a fire. This will be a new area for the show in coming weeks. His site is at https://coalcrackerbushcraft.com/, while you can also find him on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXSVZTsqJn5JjN0h5q5_B_Q . We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia</a
Thu, August 16, 2018
Episode #100 - Ken Hall (Lighterknot)
For our 100th episode and, indeed, for our 101st, I have two friends with whom I finished the trail. Next week, it will be Pat Coate, or Tee Bird. This week, Ken Hall, or Lighterknot, joins us to tell us how the Class of 2014 affected him. We have a wide-ranging and definitely nostalgic chat about the time we spent together. In the interview, our laughter was incessant and proved how easily we picked up with one another again. Ken was supported on his 2014 journey by his wife, Deb, who was there at Springer to see him off. He is a man of faith, and his prayer at the end is burned into my mind, yet this is the first time I've seen the picture that was taken. That picture is placed at the end of these notes. If you'd like to read more about Ken's journey, here is a link to his blog. https://lighterknot.wordpress.com/ We also had three more interviews from the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market in Denver recently. I met: James Peet of Simple Shower - https://www.simple-shower.com/ . If you click on the link to his website you'll see a really good video that shows you what this simple device is like and what it can do. Ethan Devine of Solarcamp - https://www.solarcamp-usa.com/ . The solar charger that Ethan talks about is the Solympic -Hue . Andy Birutis of Alchemi Labs - https://www.alchemilabs.com/ told us about his reflective hats that reflect 80% of the sun's heatwaves. I liked the River Hat . Could my shirt really be any more pink?? Chrissy Funk returned to the show with If I Did It Again. Her sometimes almost-harrowing videos displayed the emotion she has for the AT and she resolved to get back to it someday and told us the changes she would make. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, August 09, 2018
Episode #99 - Stephanie White (Ultra Runner)
Stephanie White is new to hiking, yet she is already an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker. Her main discipline is the seemingly crazy sport of ultra running and, with three 200-mile races to compete in this year, she looked around for something to prepare her for the races. Choosing the Appalachian Trail as a five-month warm up may seem excessive to some, but Stephanie discovered far more than her endurance once she'd immersed herself in the trail culture. If you'd like to read Stephanie's blog, you can find it here. http://www.polyultrarunner.wordpress.com/ , while she can also be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.white.9404362 . The Outdoor Retailers Summer Market interviews this week are from Bryan Dunster at Hydra Light - http://www.hydralight.net/ Jeff Arias at Zulu Audio - https://zuluaudio.com/ Barry Ryan at 8K FlexWarm - https://8kflexwarm.com/ We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, August 02, 2018
Episode #98 - Tom Kennedy (Doinit)
Tom Kennedy hasn't been a hiker all his life; indeed, he came to it relatively recently. He has found a way to foster his love of hiking and hikers by raising money for those suffering from mental health issues. When he discovered the various trails of America he took on the Florida Trail, completing the whole thing other than 20 miles south of Miami. As he says, he spent WAAAY too much time slogging through water. Eventually discovering that he could live happier but financially poorer, Tom founded Hike For Mental Health to assist funding for mental health scientists. You can follow Tom's work (and fun) at http://hikeformentalhealth.org/ as well as on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/iHIKE/ . Once the interview was over, Tom and I chatted about how I could get involved in his charity so, at his suggestion, I'll be doing Maryland For Mental Health when I do the AT next year. I hope that some of you come and join me to help raise funds for this critical charity. We introduced a new segment to the show this week, following my visit to the Outdoor Retailer's Summer Market in Denver Colorado. I spoke with our main sponsor, Vince Robichaud of Trailtopia and I urge you, as always, to head over to Trailtopia's site, at https://www.trailtopia.com/ to see their wide range of great tasting food. I also visited with Adyn Soju as she pleasantly explained in detail the intricacies of The Tinkle Belle to this rather uptight Brit. You can find out more about this essential female hiking accessory by visiting the excellent website, https://thetinklebelle.com/ . While you're there, check out the awesome video they've put together. Last, though certainly not least, I met the impressive Erica Rosen of Biolite, who told me about the Biolite Camp Stove 2, a new cooking stove that will enable you to put together a small campfire AND charge your phone. She also showed me their impressive solar panels. Once we'd finished the interview she shared the generous mission of Biolite so I switched on the recorder again. You can find the stove at their website , https://www.bioliteenergy.com . There is another great little video on the s
Thu, July 26, 2018
Episode #97 - Cathryn Pugh (Sunshine)
Hiking the Appalachian Trail is a daunting undertaking for people with no medical issues. For those who rely upon their medication, the AT can be logistically challenging. Cathryn Pugh didn't let that get in the way once she decided to do a thru-hike in 2017. Her sunny disposition and can-do attitude are inspiring–even to the extent of convincing somebody else to tackle the trail next year. We'll be speaking with that person as well. Cathryn learned a life-affirming lesson on the trail–she can do absolutely anything. She even started dating her boyfriend, Mike, while she was on the AT, though even that wasn't straightforward and they didn't see each other for another month. If you'd like to learn more about Cathryn and her journey, you can find her on Instagram at hikeswithdiabetes. Nate Harrington made a welcome return to the show with the tweak he'd make to his hike were he ever to go again. I mention the Katahdin sign that Nate makes and sell. Here is the link to the sign on his site, Between The Blazes . We're up to Episode Eight of the Year We Seized The Day, with more grief for Colin between the laughs. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, July 19, 2018
Episode #96 - Kim Shaffer (Echo)
There are many reasons to want to hike the Appalachian Trail. Few have the history of the trail literally in their blood in the way that Kim Shaffer does. The family have all been hikers and Kim harboured the desire for a thru-hike years ago. The fact that her Great Uncle was the first EVER thru-hiker of the AT, added to that desire. She started her Flip-Flop (or OBO) at Penn Mar Park to avoid the dreadful flooding around Harpers Ferry and is now in Massachusetts. Along the way, she has learned plenty about her famous relative and much about herself as well. Kim tells me that she promises to update her blog more regularly, but you can find that here. https://kimhikesthru.com/ , though she does post more often on Instagram at Kimhikesthru A friend of the show, JASH, shared one of his stories from the trail and we had Chapter Seven of The Year We Seized The Day, by Elizabeth Best and Colin Bowles. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, July 12, 2018
Episode #95 - Anna and Branden Jones (Sweet Tea and Moose)
Anna Jones wrote to me a few months back to thank me for the various shows and our guests. Anna and Branden were planning a flip-flop, starting in May, so I asked her if they would like to be interviewed for the show once they had 500 miles under their feet. They are now in Vermont, getting ready for the AT's biggest and, in my opinion, best challenges–New Hampshire and Maine. Our interview was a delight, with stories and perceptions–including encounters with a few of our previous guests–mixed in a wide-ranging interview. You'll be impressed by their thoughtful responses. You can follow along with this wonderful couple on their Facebook Group under BrandAnna Hike The AT We also saw the return of Cesar Becerra in If I Did It Again. Considering that his hike lasted over a year, it seemed likely that Cesar might change one or two things. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, July 05, 2018
Episode #94 - Mike Piatt (Grinder)
Mike Piatt is a LASH, which is an acronym that Mike will explain in the show. He is shortly to complete his third full thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, done in 500-1000 mile sections over the years. He is a very sociable guy, relishing his encounters with a wide variety of hikers and tells many stories of his adventures over the years. He doesn't look like he intends to slow down anytime soon. You can email Mike at piatt512@centurylink.net if you'd like to ask him any questions about his hike or the AT in general. I'm guessing that anything you have to ask, Mike will have an answer. He can also be found on Facebook at Michael.Piatt.1614. Spielberg, or Craig McPherson, was this week's guest in "If I Did It Again." Craig's video is so worth another watch if, like me, you've already seen it at least 50 times. Here is the YouTube link. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hT8ZMp8Ec7U We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com / to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, June 28, 2018
Episode #93 - George Andrews (Tin Man)
George Andrews has a deep love of hikers and hiking so, when he retired, he wanted to involve himself in the community. He had always been keen to keep the weight of his pack and everything in it as low as possible, so this led him to start a company in that field, AntiGravityGear. He refers to himself as a "tinkerer," teaching himself to sew and make gear for hikers since 2003. He has spent time on the John Muir Trail, The Camino in Spain and, of course, the Appalachian Trail. An AT thru-hike still figures high on his bucket list. He has been a friend for many years of David Miller, the AWOL in the AWOL Guide and, when David decided to concentrate on his writing, George assumed responsibility for the guide. You can find out more about AntiGravityGear on their website at http://antigravitygear.com/ . They can also be found on Facebook and Instagram under antigravitygear. For the AT guide, go to theatguide.com or Facebook and Instagram under theatguide. If you're interested in nominating for the Best of The AT, just head over to https://www.instagram.com/theatguide/ . Kyle Bock gave us an entertaining list of changes he might make were he ever to hike the AT again, and Steve read Chapter Five of "The Year We Seized The Day. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, June 21, 2018
Episode #92 - Joel "Buddy" Wier III (Nami)
Buddy Wier is something of a late bloomer. He became interested in hiking after his retirement, accumulating gear though not immediately getting out to hike. He had always been a traveler and soon combined his love of travel with the various opportunities that arose to hike. Having traveled extensively and hiking when and where he could, Buddy was inspired to hike the AT when he heard the inspirational Jennifer Pharr Davis speak about her FKT record. So, over the next couple of years, Buddy took on this monumental task at the age of 69, finally reaching Katahdin at the age of 71. Buddy would be happy to field any questions that you may have and he can be reached at wieriii@att.net . Instead of If I Did It Again this week, I have a couple of parents, Kathi and Bob Bucklin, who endured, and enjoyed, their daughter's hike back in 2014. I thought their clear-eyed perspective would be reassuring to many of you who are faced with similar announcements from your nearest and dearest. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, June 14, 2018
Episode #91 - Linnea Van Manen (Shiver)
Linnea Van Manen struggled with Lyme Disease as a young girl and felt the effects through her teens. Lyme manifested itself by intense bouts of bursitis in her knees, so much so that a year before heading out to the Appalachian Trail for a solo thru-hike, Linnea was confined to a wheelchair for some of the time. She was a flip-flopper (or OBOer) and spread her hike over an eleven month period with seven months of hiking, much of it utterly alone. Despite all manner of incidents and occasional problems, Linnea reached her goal of a thru-hike at the unremarkable spot of Buena Vista. However, Linnea celebrated that finish as much as one would on the top of Katahdin. She kept a blog about her journey at 2200miles.blog and has an Instagram account at lvanm01 if you'd like to reach out to her. Tim McGann, one of my 2014 classmates, only really wanted to change his name. He.....well, let him tell you. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com / to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, June 07, 2018
Episode #90 - Kayla McCarthy (Popeye)
Kayla McCarthy, her father, and her mother set out to hike the Appalachian Trail in 2014. Only Kayla and her mother reached Katahdin as her father injured himself and had to leave the trail. As Kayla told her story I was struck by how much the dynamic of their hike had to change, with Kayla stepping up into a partnership with her mother, as opposed to being the daughter of a couple. The trail throws interesting conundrums at you as you hike and any observer of Kayla and Molly could see the partnership working well between these two strong women. Many people keep a journal on the trail and Kayla wrote every day, sharing her journey with listeners here. Go to http://www.trailjournals.com/journal/entry/446790 to read her story and, like me, you'll be amused to learn that her father's trail name was Wrong Way Jalapeno. Even funnier was the fact that she refers to him also as WWJ. That just tickled me. If you'ds like to see a selection of her pictures on the trail, she has those in a short video on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u22OIgC7DPs David "Digger" DiGrigorio returns in If I Did It Again, surprising me with the change that he would make if he were to hit the AT again. Considering that he's been hiking almost non-stop since we met on the AT in 2014, a return for him seems likely. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, May 31, 2018
Episode #89 - Tom Healy (Toasted Toad)
This week's guest, Tom Healy, is somebody who I hiked around for a while in 2014. He seemed so comfortable out in the woods that I assumed that he had been a lifetime hiker. It turns out that, like me, this was his first long-distance hike. Since he completed the Appalachian Trail, Tom has spent more and more of his life hiking longer trails and regards it as his lifestyle. As we spoke in this interview I found a few more similarities in our journey, but it was in the post-hike worlds that hiking became his new normal while I was pretty sure that I was one and done. That turned out not to be the case for me, but for Tom, it really accelerated to the extent that he expects to complete his Triple Crown this summer. He loves to photograph his surroundings and I urge you all to check out his Instagram account, where you can find him at thealy416. If you'd like to follow his journey even closer, why not read his Trail Journals from the PCT and the CDT ? Tom would love to reconnect with old friends so look him up, not only on Instagram but also on Facebook at tom.healy.79677. He even shared his phone number if anybody wants to chat directly. Call him on 843-425-3033 but please call at a reasonable time!! Bethany Varner came on for a brief chat about one or two things that she might change about her hike were she ever to go again. We started our new book, The Year We Seized The Day , by Eli Best and Colin Bowles. It tells the story of two friends hiking the Camino in Spain and we get a glimpse into the hike from both their individual perspectives. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, May 24, 2018
Episode #88 - Eli Best
This week, Eli Best tells me about the journey she took on the Camino De Santiago back in 2004. She had suffered a heart attack and organ failure several years before and the Camino was her way of testing herself in a life that had almost been written off. She shared the journey with an old friend of Steve's. Colin Bowles had moved to Australia as a teenager and found fame as an author while there, writing under the name of Colin Falconer. Their journey together was transformative in many ways, many of which Eli believes, continue to this day. They wrote a book together three years after their journey and this book, The Year We Seized The Day, is going to be the new book read on the show from next week. It is a riveting read and we all hope that you enjoy the story told by both a woman and a man. You can find the Paperback version of the book on Amazon , though the Kindle version doesn't appear to be currently available. They have a great little website for the book, with loads of pre-digital images now digitized for the site. They look great. Eli's first book, Eli's Wings, is also available on Amazon , while Colin's website is also worth seeking out. Jeff Alt returns to the show to tell us one or two things he'd change were he ever to repeat his 90s hike of the AT. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia , when you consider your next backpacking trip. Check out their wide variety of delicious meals.
Thu, May 17, 2018
Episode #87 - Spencer Leebolt and Blaike Bateman (Pit Boss and Play By Play)
Spencer Leebolt and Blaike Bateman have almost reached the halfway mark on the Appalachian Trail. Spencer is Blaike's stepfather and, although he had originally intended to hike the trail on his own, he took the opportunity to introduce Blaike to the trail for the adventure of his (early) lifetime. Blaike is just 14 years old. Steve found them to be very much a team, with each having the other's back. They have been videoing their journey, so you can keep up with them on YouTube at Batebolt Productions . If you'd like to see some of their pictures, head over to Instagram , where they are also at Batebolt Productions. Kelly Anderson told Steve the things she would change were she ever to do the hike again in "If I Did It Again," while Blaise Vitale texted then told Steve his story about an unfortunate hitch-hike. We hope that you take the opportunity to support our sponsor, Trailtopia, when you consider your next backpacking trip. Go to https://www.trailtopia.com/ to check out their wide variety of meals.
Thu, May 10, 2018
Episode #86 - Devan Horn (Shawty)
For a hiking show, Devan Horn wouldn't normally belong. Yet this extraordinary woman, a long-distance runner and rider, chose to hike the Colorado Trail while her party of five other women did it on horseback. She was able to draw distinctions and comparisons between the two modes of transport and provides great insights. She also took part in two Mongol Derbys , with a third coming this year. Click on the link to see more details and wild video of this amazing race. When our conversation turned back to long-distance running she even mulled over the idea of an attempt at an FKT of the Appalachian Trail. I wouldn't put that remarkable feat out of her range. You can connect with Devan through her Facebook page, at texantemujin. We had the return of the lovely Sarah Williams in If I Did It Again. As always, Sarah was boundlessly enthusiastic, with some welcome safety tips for women unsure of themselves on the trail. Please make sure you consider our sponsor, Trailtopia , when shopping for food for your next backpacking trip.
Thu, May 03, 2018
Episode #85 - Art Donovan (CraftE)
A member of the Class of 2018, Art Donovan is fulfilling a dream that his mother had 50 years ago. With retirement came the desire to cross the AT off his bucket list, honoring both his mother and assisting her plight by raising funds for Alzheimer's Disease. He's even found the time to leave the trail to become an American Citizen. Art has had quite the adventure so far, sharing time with one of his daughters on the trail and saving the last 30 miles of the Smokey Mountains for his other daughter after she has given birth later in the year. Below, Art is at MacAfee Knob. You can follow Art's adventure on Facebook , where you'll also have the chance to donate to Alzheimer's should you so wish. We also heard this week from Stacey Bucklin, or Stylez, in "If I Did It Again." Stylez leaves us with a memorable quote to consider. Our Merch Store now has a pink Hiking Radio Network logo for tee shirts, hoodies, mugs etc. We hope that you like it. Don't forget to visit the site of our wonderful sponsor, Trailtopia .
Thu, April 26, 2018
Episode #84 - James Smyle (Mayhem)
This weekend, April 28 and 29, the Flip Flop Festival will be held in the adjoining towns of Harpers Ferry and Bolivar, partly to celebrate the beginning of the outdoor season in Harpers Ferry but, more significantly, it is actively promoting flip-flop hikes as a viable, responsible approach to hiking the Appalachian Trail. James Smyle earned the name of Mayhem when he did his first thru-hike, back in the 90s, but the more laid back Mayhem went again in 2016, this time as a flip-flopper. He tells us about his hikes, though the conversation is geared towards his role as Chair of the Flip Flop Festival. You should check out the festival at FlipFlopFestival.org James and Steve discuss the attractions of this alternate route, comparing and contrasting the two hikes that James has taken. Mighty Blue on the Appalachian Trail is a strong proponent of the flip-flop as a concept but less happy about the name!! We encourage listeners to submit ideas for a change of name and will share the entries with James and the ATC. Jessa and an old favorite–"If I did It Again"–return to the show, as Jessa reflects upon differences that she would make to her hike if she were to do it again. Please support the other shows on the HikingRadioNetwork.com and make sure that you head across to Trailtopia.com when you next plan to hit the trail.
Thu, April 19, 2018
Episode #83 - Mike Carbonneau (Strummystick)
Mike Carbonneau loves to play music on the trail. He is a section hiker who fell in love with hiking in his 50s. Since then, he has been taking on large sections as he makes his way towards a completion of the Appalachian Trail. He has combined this love of hiking with a love of music, organizing several trips to the trail with a group of like-minded young musicians. Mike usually uses a strumstick to entertain folks and three of his recordings are scattered throughout today's show. If you'd like to see Mike play, you can find him on YouTube with his A.T. version of "Wagon Wheels" at Trail Days in Damascus. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-XRI7aSnsc Also on YouTube, you can follow Mike's adventure on the Long Trail with a slide show accompanied by Mike on his strumstick. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ae-r6YCtH8E&t=85s For those of you interested in carrying an instrument on the trail, check out this Facebook post by Mike. https://www.facebook.com/notes/michael-carbonneau/guitar-and-strum-stick-backpacking-tips/10153679894458401/ Jarrod Ross shared his experiences on the Lost Coast Trail, an exotic wilderness north of San Francisco. Make sure you check out our other shows at HikingRadioNetwork.com and, while you're online, see what Trailtopia can do to kick your food choices on the trail up a notch or two.
Thu, April 12, 2018
Episode #82 - Daniel White (The Blackalachian)
Daniel White is something of a rarity on the Appalachian Trail. Black people are unrepresented on hiking trails and Daniel provides us with, perhaps, some of the unhappy reasons for that underrepresentation. He hiked in 2017 and found the trail to be an unexpected source of love and light. Daniel and Steve discuss what it feels like for a young black man to "go into the woods" and Daniel has a few stories to share that would be unlikely to be part of a white man's experience. As with most hikers, the trail was transformative for him and he has plans for further adventures. You can find out more about Daniel and connect with him on Facebook and Instagram at The Blackalachian. His YouTube channel can also be found at The Blackalachian. Sue Jeffery (Steve mistakenly refers to her as "Jefferies") has a wonderful tale about the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail. Sue and her three youngest children hiked the entire 319 miles of the trail in June 2017. Her photo journal is highly recommended and can be found here. https://spark.adobe.com/page/GS0DpO1Z0ibhO/ Additionally, the Sheltowee Trace Association Facebook page is an excellent resource for more information and pictures of the trail. Check out our other shows at HikingRadioNetwork.com and don't forget to reach out to our sponsor, Trailtopia , when planning your next trip into the woods and mountains.
Thu, April 05, 2018
Episode #81 - Ben Montgomery
With so many future histories being made right now on the Appalachian Trail, Ben Montgomery brings us the story behind the story of Grandma Gatewood. Ben is a former Pulitzer Prize finalist and transitioned from journalist to writer when he discovered the tale of Grandma Gatewood. That she happened to be a distant relative didn't hurt his case. Ben and Steve discuss her life and hike in their conversation, as well as the human connection that Ben made with this indomitable woman. Ben has followed up his Emma Gatewood story with The Leper Spy , about an unsung heroine of the 2nd World War and has a new work out in September, The Man Who Walked Backward . He can be followed on Twitter at @gangrey and Facebook as AuthorBenMontgomery . Udi Goren introduced us to the Israel National Trail. His gives talks on the subject and his website is well worth checking out if you'd like to learn a little more about this beautiful trail. https://www.israeltrailtalk.com/ As always, we are thankful for the support of our wonderful sponsor, Trailtopia. Make sure you visit Trailtopia.com when you stock up food for your next hike. Remember, all our shows can now be seen in the same place, HikingRadioNetwork.com . Come on over and check us out.
Thu, March 29, 2018
Episode #80 - Ben Barbante (Juan Durer)
Juan Durer has certainly earned his trail name. Once he had decided that living for now was far better than waiting for retirement, he has been a man on a mission. He hikes then moves on to the next hike. When Steve caught up with him, he was just two miles into another long-distance hike. He is rational, indeed intentional, with the life he is leading and his laugh comes easily and is contagious. Since he finished the AT in 2016, he has hiked in Japan, Australia, Africa, and done "a couple" of Caminos in Spain. You can contact Juan / Ben through Facebook at Juan Durer. Kristen Brown explains the origin of her trail name before telling us about the White Oak Canyon/Cedar Run loop in Shenandoah National Park. You can find out more about this beautiful short hike at hikingupward.com . As always, we thank our Sponsors, Trailtopia for their support and hope that you support them when considering your hiking food requirements. All our four shows will be available at one platform, the new HikingRadioNetwork.com , which will be open on Sunday, April 1. I hope you drop by to listen to our other shows as well as this one.
Thu, March 22, 2018
Episode #79 - Maria Wishart (Wheezy Pee)
For Maria Wishart, hiking the Appalachian Trail became part of her life and, when she could no longer drive the distances required to get her AT "fix," her solution was to move to a more convenient spot on the trail. Maria and her husband had shared most of those hiking miles but after the move, her husband was constrained by work, so Maria started hiking on her own. But Maria's story is much more than another hiker doing the trail in sections. She got into hiking when she set foot on the trail for the first time, on Mount Greylock. Discovering what the trail was all about, she researched and set out on her journeys, with her husband. Another impetus was her dying father's wishes on his bucket list. What she learned from his bucket list was extremely instructive. She is enthralled by the trail and has now completed just over half of the entire 2,190-mile length of the AT. Maria will be happy to hear from you through Facebook or Instagram , while you can email her at wheezypee@aol.com On today's show, we also heard about two upcoming shows on the Hiking Radio Network. First, Dixie "LIVE" on the Continental Divide Trail will be available later this week. Watch the Mighty Blue Facebook page for announcements. The other show that I announced today is Anna Huthmaker's show, The Trail Dames Podcast , where Anna interviews like-minded, empowering and empowered women on mountains and in forests. You can find Anna's show on iTunes and everywhere you listen to podcasts. Alternatively, you can click the show name (above) and be taken directly to episode #1. Please remember that Bruce Matson is onto week number four in his AT bid. You can find that show at Returning to Katahdin on iTunes or by clicking the link above. Last, but certainly not least, my eternal thanks to our sponsors, Trailtopia . Check out their latest food offerings and be delighted by the taste.
Thu, March 15, 2018
Episode #78 - Curt Ebert (Disciple)
Curt Ebert was the pastor in his local church when the call came to hike the Appalachian Trail. The remarkable circumstances surrounding that call are introduced in this conversation with Steve. Curt had little hiking experience and, though they were a family who enjoyed the open air and had gone on day hikes on the Appalachian Trail, his decision was, for many reasons, somewhat unusual. Curt's wife was able to join him for the first 50 miles of the trail, then shared the 100 Mile Wilderness with him. Katahdin looms in the distance behind them. While his children remained at home, they were able to visit and support him on his journey. Here they are at the 1500 mile mark. Steve's intellectual curiosity and Curt's unwavering faith make for an absorbing conversation. If you'd like to learn more about Curt or contact him, he can be found on Facebook , at 2Corinthians57, on YouTube at Not By Sight, and on Instagram at notby_sight. Don't forget to visit our sponsor, Trailtopia.com and, while you're at it, why not see if there's anything you fancy on the Mighty Blue Merch Store.
Thu, March 08, 2018
Episode #77 - Bill King (Field Trip)
Bill King has had his mind on an Appalachian Trail thru-hike since he listened to a presentation from another thru-hiker. He is a retired school teacher and has found the inspiration to start his flip flop hike in April 2018. Despite a diagnosis of neuropathy in his feet, Bill has simply battled through the pain, taken the appropriate medication and kept moving forward. Bill has an abiding love of nature and expects to be smelling the roses on his way up the trail. He also anticipates the occasional chase after the perfect butterfly picture. His students–several now in their 30s and 40s–have been following Bill's preparations on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/bill.king.5454 and his blog at billkingfieldtrip.weebly.com. Now you can follow him as well. We wish him the best of luck for his hike this year. I recently saw a great little post on Facebook that showed a backpack / bivy tent combination that weighs in at just over one pound! The BivyPack is the idea of Ken Flannery, who has been on the road for the past ten years. I invited Ken on the show to tell us how he invented it. Click on his Kickstarter link to see the video. He also has a personal blog and a podcast . Click on the links to access either or both of these. Last, but definitely not least, Jack Masters, or Vagabond Jack, checked in and we had a chat about the progress he's made on his thru-hike so far. If you'd like to follow Jack, his blog is at Trail Journals. Don't forget to listen to our companion show, Returning to Katahdin . You can also visit Bruce's blog at rtkchallenge.com , where you will also be able to hear our podcast and contribute to his fundraising for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. While you’re online, we’d also be delighted if you’d check out Trailtopia.com and consider the wonderful food choices that they have for your next hike
Thu, March 01, 2018
Episode #76 - Laurie Potteiger (Mountain Laurel)
Laurie Potteiger came to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy to help them out prior to her attempted thru-hike in the 1980s. When her hike was over, Laurie returned to the ATC and found her passion–twice. She not only started a career there, she also found her husband! Laurie's quiet intelligence shines through in this conversation, with her extensive knowledge of the trail and its protocols informing her answers. While bear canisters are often required out west, Laurie is eager to see them more often on the Appalachian Trail. As you can see from the picture below of Laurie in the 100 Mile Wilderness, they can take a lot of stuff! Laurie is a great proponent of the various initiatives in the ATC and, as you'd imagine, has plenty of information for the interested listener. If you like the idea of doing a Flip Flop of the AT, try the AT Flip Floppers Facebook page. There is plenty of support for prospective hikers who want to help in this effort to maintain the trail for future generations. If you feel that a Flip Flop isn't for you, why not take part in the A.T. 14 State Challenge . Here, you'll find ideas about accessibility and suggested destinations that you can get to take on the challenge. I think that this is a wonderful idea that will bring the Appalachian Trail to Americans who might not otherwise get the chance to touch this magical piece of real estate. Laurie has also sent me a link to the AT Expert Advice Facebook page. Here, you'll get "advice that's good for you and good for the Trail." On the subject of what's good for the Trail, why not visit this link, which gives you tips and videos on the Leave No Trace policy. There's also the AT Camp , which is voluntary registration designed to help manage and record which hikers are leaving when. This is a great device to allow you to plan your journey and choose how many people you want to be around in those early days. If you're ever in the mood for a bit of trail maintaining, Laurie and her husband step up for that as well. The last two links are her Instagram and Twitter pages. Our other guest this week is Keith Myrmel. Keith is a mapmaker and he describes his painstaking process by talking about the Superior Hiking Trail. It was tough to get high-enough-definition pic
Thu, February 22, 2018
Episode #75 - Anna Huthmaker (Mud Butt)
Anna Huthmaker was one of my more surprising guests. Her story is inspirational on many levels, not least that she took to hiking when substantially overweight or, as she preferred to term it, "curvy." Her self-discovery on this journey enabled her to see herself in a different light and she felt compelled to share her experiences with others who may have been similarly reticent. Forming Trail Dames was a wonderful by-product of her own journey, and she has seen her organization for women hikers–curvy or not–grow in many areas over the past few years. Her philosophy is that this club is nothing to do with dieting; it's all about climbing mountains, both literally and figuratively. If you'd like to learn more about Anna or Trail Dames, there are several places to visit. Start off with the Trail Dames website, then head to their foundation, at tdcharitablefoundation.org . Anna referred to their Trail Dames Summit in the podcast. You can find out about that at TrailDamesSummit.com If you prefer Facebook or Instagram , they are on those platforms as well. Curtis Tavares shared his experiences of the Vermont Long Trail, which sounds like a terrific warm-up for a longer hike or simply as an adventure in its own right. Bruce’s blog will be regularly updated while he's on the trail. You can find it at rtkchallenge.com , where you will also be able to hear our podcast and contribute to his fundraising for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. While you’re online, we’d also be delighted if you’d check out Trailtopia.com and consider the wonderful food choices that they have for your next hike.
Thu, February 15, 2018
Episode #74 - Jack Jones (Quadzilla)
Jack Jones flip-flopped the Appalachian Trail in 2016, sharing part of his time with two previous guests, Kelly Anderson and Edwin Thullen. He found the physicality of the trail to be relatively easy and, with his military training, he carried a very heavy pack. Here he is in Virginia, with the spectacular view from Dragon's Tooth behind him. His journey to the trail came via adoption from China at age eight, and Jack speaks of the dislocation that caused him, yet the trail brought home to him the camaraderie with his fellow travelers. The picture below shows Jack with Kelly and their friend, Simba, on the way up Katahdin. He learned a great deal about diet on the AT and is hoping to use that knowledge in his Arizona Trail and Continental Divide Trail hikes this year (2018). You can see a short video of Jack's journey on YouTube and read his AT blog at his new site, CouchToTrail.com . If you sign up for his newsletter, you'll get over 100 high quality, full resolution photos of the Appalachian Trail. The photo of Jack at the bottom of these notes is of him at Mt Washington. Update 2/19: Jack sent me a couple of other links: Instagram and Reddit . Just click on either. Doctor Lynne returns to the show as Hiker Lynne, with a local Connecticut hike, the Charles Ives Trail her focus. She has shared a great link to a brochure and map for the trail. Just click here . Here she is with her family on the trail. Bruce’s blog is now regularly updated. You can find it at rtkchallenge.com , where you will also be able to hear our podcast and contribute to his fundraising for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. While you’re online, we’d also be delighted if you’d check out Trailtopia.com and consider the wonderful food choices that they have for your next hike.
Thu, February 08, 2018
Episode #73 - Ryan Linn (Guthook)
Ryan Linn has hiked both the Appalachian Trail (in 2007) and the Pacific Crest Trail (in 2010). He gained a true appreciation of the outdoors after college, combining his love of hiking with various jobs in and around the hiking business. It was while he was on the Pacific Crest Trail that he met his eventual business partner, Paul. They were both unsatisfied with the dearth of good, accessible maps for the long trails, and both saw the potential for smartphones within the hiking community. Starting with the PCT, the business of Guthooks was born. The Appalachian Trail followed and now the company provides map apps for the majority of the famous, and some of the not-so-famous hikes of America. In the meantime, as you can see below, his hair and beard seemed to grow in opposite directions! Ryan is aware of the intrusion of technology into the solitude of hiking He has thought carefully of the responsibility that his company holds and is trying to develop education and knowledge of hiking through partnerships with well-known stewards of the trail. You can learn more about Ryan and his company by visiting Atlas Guides, the company website, at http://www.atlasguides.com/ There are also company Facebook and Instagram pages. If you'd like to learn more about Ryan's hikes, you can follow his blog, which pre-dates his apps, at http://www.guthookhikes.com/ We'll soon be saying goodbye to Doctor Lynne, and this week she has some wise words about food and nutrition. For our sister show, Bruce Matson's blog is now regularly updated. You can find it at rtkchallenge.com , where you will also be able to hear our podcast and contribute to his fundraising for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. While you’re online, we’d also be delighted if you’d check out Trailtopia.com and consider the wonderful food choices that they have for your next hike.
Thu, February 01, 2018
Episode #72 - Paul Magnanti (Paul Mags)
Paul Mags is a man who simply loves being outdoors. He has hiked many trails, completing the Triple Crown of the AT, the PCT, and the CDT, in 2006. He is often alone on these trips, loving the solitude. He manages his life to fit in with his hiking, referring to hiking as his passion. He is a keenly aware of the history of both the various trails and the environment through which they pass. Paul's life isn't for everybody. Indeed, it is hard to imagine that many people would prioritize the outdoors ahead of personal relationships and family, but Paul has been able to do that while getting acceptance of his lifestyle from his family. He is, clearly, very happy with the choices that he has made. In the intrerview, Paul spoke enthusiastically about his recent adventure across Utah. He mentioned two websites that listeners may wish to visit. Jamal Green has an excellent site, AcrossUtah , with some awesome pictures and videos, while another site by "Amy and James," called DoingMiles , has the same area along with plenty of other outdoor adventures to read about. You can find Paul in a variety of ways. His website, which is extremely informative, is at PMags.com . He is also on Twitter and Instagram as PMagsco. He recently published a couple of books in the Quick and Dirty Hiking Guides series. If you are looking for the Kindle version, you can find them on Amazon . Clay Bonnyman Evans' reflections of the Colorado Trail opened Steve's eyes to the possibility that this is (at least in part) a possibility for him in the future. Don't forget to listen in on our latest adventure in Returning to Katahdin . Bruce is just four weeks out from his departure and Steve and Bruce discuss food, cooking, and water arrangements. Of course, on the subject of food, please make sure that you check out our sponsor's website, Trailtopia.com .
Thu, January 25, 2018
Episode #71 - Matt Philippi (Jersey)
Matt Philippi is not currently looking to do a thru-hike of the AT. For Matt, biting off sections is a satisfying way to de-stress from his job. He contacted me to talk about the Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Canal Towpath. It is quite some towpath, running from Washington DC to Cumberland MD and measuring over 184 miles. I had previously intended speaking with Matt but I dropped the ball on that, so it was good to hear from him again. This time, we combined his C&O hike with his experiences hiking the AT in sections. Matt shared a link to the C&O Canal Towpath. https://www.nps.gov/choh/index.htm . If you'd like to know more about this trail, or indeed, section-hiking the Appalachian Trail, email me and Matt will be happy to respond to your questions. As you can see from the waterfall below, it certainly has some great sights. Matt completed the hike with his work colleague and is as proud of his "summit" picture as I am of my own on Katahdin–as he should be. Dr Lynne and I discuss arthritis and joints this week on Doc Spot. Don't forget, we're going to be losing Dr Lynne soon because she's run out of trail ailments. On the other hand, if you have some hiking-related medical questions that we haven't covered, she'd be delighted to answer them on a kind of wrap up show. Don't forget to support our sponsor, Trailtopia and make sure you follow Bruce as he gets closer to his start date in late February. You can find his great show, Returning To Katahdin wherever you listen to podcasts.
Thu, January 18, 2018
Episode #70 - Jack Masters (Vagabond Jack)
Jack Masters is a member of the Class of 2018. While he's been interested in the possibility of hiking the appalachian Trail, a year ago it didn't seem likely. But life changes, and Jack has had a tumultuous year. Despite this, he has taken control of and redirected his life and, in a couple of short weeks, Vagabond Jack will be testing himself once more. He even decided to travel and hitched his wagon to hit the road. I met Jack as a listener to my show. We emailed back and forth and he eventually decided to join the Fat Guys, and Gals, Back in the Woods. I took to him instantly and we became friends. Despite this experience (as opposed to because of it), Jack announced to ur group that a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail was in his future. This picture was taken on our hike together. I hope that you all follow Jack on his journey. You can find his blog on Trail Journals and you can also reach him on Facebook . Doctor Lynne has plenty of good advice on how to look after orthopedic injuries, with me, once again, providing the idiot questions. Don't forget to follow our other show, Returning to Katahdin , with Bruce Matson. Bruce is also getting near the start of his adventure and this week we discuss his winter gear. I'm so pleased that Trailtopia have continued to support the show, signing up for a further six months. I hope that you nsupport them and, in doing so, you'll be supporting me.
Thu, January 11, 2018
Episode #69 - JD and Amanda Anttonen (Yak and Walks With Fire)
I met JD Anttonen on the Appalachian Trail in 2014 and, as one often did, we shared the odd meal in a shelter and ran into one another from time to time. He was out of the military and had just suffered a traumatic life event, so his journey up the east coast of America was not without internal strife. Yet, as he made his way north, he succumbed to the beauty of the trail, the kindness of people, and the realization that he didn't have to do it all alone. Yet, when he returned home, he became afflicted by a crippling depression that seemed to snuff out the good that had come from the trail. Luckily, he met and married Amanda, who had never been a backpacker but was somebody who shared his joy in being outdoors. Despite swearing that she would never go on a long-distance hike, one day Amanda felt compelled to fight for parental justice in the court system and her outlet was a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. To that end, the two of them will be heading out in April and intend to use their hikes to promote causes greater than themselves. You can find out more about JD and Amanda's projects by clicking on any of these links Amanda's Project Addi Facebook page Amanda's Fundraising page Amanda's Punished For Protecting Facebook page JD's Help End 22 Facebook page This week, in Doc Spot, Lynne and I are starting a conversation about the strange phenomenon of post trail depression. We'd really welcome your input, either via email at steve@mightyblueontheat.com or on my Mighty Blue Facebook page . As always, come over to Returning To Katahdin: An Appalachian Trail Dream , where Bruce is now counting down the days to his departure next month. Of course, both shows are so grateful to Trailtopia for their support and sponsorship.
Thu, January 04, 2018
Episode #68 - Damien and Renee Tougas (The Von Trapp Family)
Damien and Renee Tougas have always made sure that their children were able to experience the outdoors. So it seemed a fairly natural fit to take the entire family on the Appalachian Trail in 2014. To help fund their adventure they produced a high-quality video series that followed their journey. For each member of the family, it was harder than they had expected. Despite their hardships–compounded when Renee had to leave the trail for much of the last 500 miles–they eventually forced their way to Katahdin, summiting triumphantly together once more as a family. The children recognized their individual roles in the adventure, each having chores to attend to at the end of the day. Once Renee had left the team, she offered each child the option to quit but, to their credit, they battled on. You can connect with the family in several of ways. Renee’s blog: http://renee.tougas.net/ Outsideways: https://outsideways.com/ Just click on the names to access their Outsideways profiles: Damien and Renee Renee’s Outsideways journal of their thru-hike (not yet complete): https://outsideways.com/journals/beyond-our-boundaries/ Their excellent video series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDCqNxx6mOD_i08ETXNekSLwxIsrmc8T7 Dr Lynne shares a personal diabetes story and gives us signs to watch out for. There is even an update from Jessa.
Thu, December 28, 2017
Episode #67 - Nate and Sharon Harrington (The Hiking Vikings)
We first met Nate and Sharon at Trail Days in Damascus earlier in 2017. I was initially fascinated by the signs of Katahdin that Nate was selling, but he had such a compelling story to tell so I went back to him and Sharon to do a full interview. Life (or young Hank) got in the way between then and now, so it wasn't until recently that we were able to complete the interview. Neither of the children was awake as we talked, though Asher Thomas (AT) decided that he had something to say after our chat. The signs continue to be a source of pride, income, and an opportunity for The Hiking Vikings to give back to the trail in the form of donations to the ATC. The two pictures below are both of the replica sign; one on top of a mountain and one that lives on my desk. These are a constant reminder of the day you did something special. If you'd like to buy one, go on over to BetweenTheBlazes.com . There is so much about Nate and Sharon's journey that is worth watching, so these links should give you a flavor of what happened when the two of them took on the Appalachian Trail. First, there is the MacAfee Knob proposal , surely the most romantic place to pop the question. Then, there is their Katahdin finale video " Walking Together ." You can see these videos and many others on Nate and Sharon's YouTube channel, Between The Blazes . If you'd like to follow Nate and Sharon, you can find them on both Facebook and Twitter under the name "tokatahdin." We also have a great run through of another lesser-known trail, the Superior Hiking Trail by Blaise Vitale. Blaise is soon to attempt an Appalachian Trail thru-hike in 2018. Learn more about the Superior Hiking Trail here . Thanks, as always to our generous sponsors, Trailtopia . Don't forget to visit their site as well as our bro
Wed, December 20, 2017
Episode #66 - Zach Davis (Badger)
Zach Davis didn't hike a long-distance trail until 2011, yet he was intuitively aware of the need to prepare himself mentally for the hike. Establishing his "why" allowed him to be ready for the problems that he would inevitably encounter on the trail. The fact that he contracted West Nile Disease and carried it until the end of the trail is further testimony to his desire to fulfill his goal. When Zach returned from the AT, he wrote his best-selling book, Appalachian Trials to assist other hikers in the hiker mindset. He was already a prolific blogger, but used his website to, first, sell more books and, second, to turn his hiking influence into a business. Zach's commonsense approach to hiking resonates with Steve in their conversation. You can find Zach at any of these places. The Trek: https://thetrek.co Zach's Instagram: http://instagram/zrdavis/ The Trek Newsletter: http://bit.ly/ TheTrekNewsletter The Trek on Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/theTrek.co/ The Trek on Twitter: http://twitter.com/thetrek_ The Trek on Instagram: https://www. instagram.com/thetrek.co/ Zach's Amazon Author page: https://www.amazon.com/Zach-Davis With Trailtop
Thu, December 14, 2017
Julie Gayheart (Jester)
Julie Gayheart is a very active section hiker, having completed a 12-year thru-hike in 2017, while within 800 miles of a second thru-hike spread over a number of years. Steve and Julie find plenty to discuss and laugh about in their conversation, She has a passion for the AT that shines through, feeling that it is on the AT that she is the best version of herself. Julie had plenty of problems at Mt Moosilauke in consecutive years, so much so that she regards that glorious mountain as her own Katahdin. You can reach out to Julie on Twitter, as @jesterhikes , as well as on Instagram as @jesterhikes . We're trying something new this week now that Doctor Lynne is away. Eliza Newland told us about the North Fork Mountain Trail. She even told us where to buy breakfast when hitting this short trail. You can learn more about the NFMT from this link to Hiking Upward , while breakfast can be found at Yokum's . Don't forget, you can find my books in paperback at my author's website, steveadams.info . If you'd like me to sign or add a message, please let me know when you check out. While you're online, please check out our sponsor, Trailtopia .
Thu, December 07, 2017
Episode #64 - Jim Kern
Meet Jim Kern, a veteran of the hiking world, yet on a mission to CLOSE THE GAPS on America's trails. He has hiked all over the world, yet his passion is here at home in Florida, with the Florida Trail. Jim started the Florida Trail in 1966, when a lot of us were in short pants back at school, while many of us weren't even born yet. Watch this short YouTube video to get a feel of what the trail is about. The picture above is of Jim overlooking the Appalachian Trail in 1967. In our conversation, Jim points to the relative passivity of hikers–compared to, say, gun owners–when it comes to demanding rights. Jim and I would appreciate everybody signing his petition. I've copied the Mission Statement of Hiking Trails for America in full to articulate the need. America has 11 National Scenic Trails, but after 60 years only the Appalachian National Scenic Trail has a right-of-way set aside for posterity. The other 10 trails have gaps subject to closure and dangerous road-walks. Many have access problems. Hiking Trails for America (HTA) has been formed to support permanent protection and continuity for all National Scenic Trails and to educate the general public in the use of foot trails for walking, hiking and backpacking. You can sign the petition by visiting HikingTrailsForAmerica.org . Don't delay, do it right away. The link below will take you to a site that is highlighting the 50th Anniversary of the National Scenic Trails Act of 1968. Jim is planning a march on Earth Day in D.C. and a full page ad will go into the January issue of Backpacker Magazine. The details are still in the works. Jim is anxious that our listeners are made aware of this important anniversary. Many hikers are unaware the Act even exists. Click on the link to learn more. Jim also refers to his coffee table book, Trail Reflections, 50 Years of Hiking and Backpacking . Click on this Amazon link and you'll be taken directly to it. Doctor Lynne takes a well-deserved Christmas break for the rest of December. But, before she goes, she gave us some reassuring information about Lyme Disease. If you'd like to learn a little more, here is a link to a short YouTube l
Thu, November 30, 2017
Episode #63 - Kyle Rohrig (The Mayor)
Kyle Rohrig was one of the first people I wanted to interview on my podcast, so it is somehow fitting that it has taken me more than 60 episodes to finally get the chance to speak with him. For me, it was worth the wait. He comes across as a modest, quiet guy with hiking now firmly in his blood. He made an attempt on the Continental Divide Trail this summer to complete his Triple Crown. The weather played a part in aborting that hike, yet he has now set himself up the opportunity to complete the Triple Crown with his girlfriend, and friend of the show, Jessica "Dixie" Mills. Kyle and his "aloof" dog, Katana, have appeared in several viral posts on the internet, with the Lion King moments a highlight. When I asked Kyle for pictures, he sent as many of Katana as he did of himself. If you'd like to find out more about Kyle and his adventures, you can visit his website, and his blog, at BoundlessRoamad.com , while you can also follow him, as boundless_roamd, on Instagram . Kyle wrote about his journey on the AT in 2014 with Lost on the Appalachian Trail , following up that big success with his latest, Hear The Challenge: Hike The Appalachian Trail . Click on either link and you'll be taken directly to Kyle's book pages on Amazon. In Doc Spot, Lynne Savino terrifies us all once more with thoughts and remedies for Altitude Sickness. This has been such a successful spot on the show that we'd love to extend its run. If you have any medical issues regarding hiking that you'd like Lynne to consider for us, please drop me an email at steve@mightyblueontheat.com and I'll pass them on to Lynne. Please remember to join me and Bruce Matson every Monday morning on our other podcast, Returning to Katahdin: An Appalachian Trail Dream . Here, we chat about Bruce's preparation for his upcoming thru-hike in 2018. We'll also be catching up with him twice a week from the trail. Last, but by no mean
Thu, November 23, 2017
Episode #62 - Jessica Mills (Dixie)
Jessica Mills has become something of a YouTube sensation, with her Appalachian Trail videos securing a base of support during her 2015 thru-hike. However, that support has grown exponentially this year, as she took on, and beat, the Pacific Crest Trail, battling the snow in the Sierras, then smoke from fires the rest of the way. Her breezy delivery, thoughtful commentary, great pictures (including some taken from a drone, and sheer bravado in the face of difficult conditions, have made her PCT vidoes required viewing for aspiring and veteran hikers alike. Jessica discusses this year's hike with Steve and answers the inevitable question, "Did you prefer the AT or the PCT?" Jessica is very active on social media, under the name of Homemade Wanderlust, and she can be contacted through the following sites. Website: www.homemadewanderlust.com Facebook: homemadewanderlust Instagram: @homemadewanderlust YouTube: homemadewanderlust Patreon: homemadewanderlust Twitter: @homemadeWL You can also find Jessica's book about her 2015 Appalachian Trail thru-hike on Amazon Lynne Savino gives us another Doc Spot, with her spotlight focused on heat related illness. Steve remains utterly clueless in these pieces and thanks Lynne for her diligence in bringing this important information to hikers. If a hiker learns the thing that can save his or her life then Lynne's work will be rewarded. Please check out our sister podcast, Returning to Katahdin: An Appalachian Trail Dream , featuring a detailed look at Bruce Matson's attempt to hike the AT in 2018. If you want to find out more about Bruce and his hike, go to his website, ReturningToKatahdin.com . Also, don't forget to try out our title sponsor's website, <a href="https://www.trailtopia.
Thu, November 16, 2017
Episode #61 - Judy Mikesell
A thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail isn’t everybody’s idea of the best way to spend time in the woods. Judy Mikesell became interested in the trail through her son’s thru-hike several years ago. She knew that she didn’t want to thru-hike but she certainly wanted to visit the various parts of the trail. Her novel approach has enabled her to build her own version of hiking the AT without ever needing to go without a shower or needing to use a privy. To try to get as full an AT experience as possible, Judy also took part in the Half-Gallon Challenge at Pine Furnace Grove. From the look of the picture above, it didn't look like it went too well. Judy is very much into the outdoors, setting herself a similar biking challenge to the one she has her sights set on for the AT, as well as snowshoeing in the winter. Doc Spot sees Lynne giving us (or at least me) entirely new information about lightning and what to do should you get caught in a storm. Also, click on this link for further information from the NOAA. Don’t forget to check out our other podcast, Returning to Katahdin: An Appalachian Trail Dream , where we follow Bruce Matson as he prepares, then executes his 44-year dream of thru-hiking the AT. At the same time, Bruce is also raising funds for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. You can learn more about Bruce and his mission by visiting his website, ReturningtoKatahdin.com . While you’re online, why not check out the website of our title sponsor, Trailtopia . You’ll find all sorts of goodies there. We thank them so much for supporting our shows.
Thu, November 09, 2017
Episode #60 - Stacey Bucklin (Stylez)
I'm back with my class of 2014 again. This week, we have another of those powerful, independent women, Stacey Bucklin, or Stylez. Stacey had wanted to do the trail for quite some time and, when the time was right, she walked away from a job and went on her adventure. She rightly notes in our interview that interrupting your career path isn't necessarily a bad thing. Stacey is truly passionate about the trail and hiking and the outdoors in general. She even shares her current home with four snakes! While it is incomplete, Stacey kept an excellent blog for the first 1,000 miles with plenty of pictures and a real feeling of what it is like on the trail. She can also be reached on Instagram and Twitter . Just click on any of the links. Lynne Savino gives us a really interesting Doc Spot, following her hypothermia section last week with how to avoid, or what to do if you get, frostbite. If you'd like her recent first aid kit, just drop me an email. Thanks to our title sponsor, Trailtopia, who are also sponsoring our other podcast, Returning to Katahdin: An Appalachian Trail Dream. You can find the show on iTunes (I'll work out how to put a direct link here one day) or by clicking this link to the show.
Thu, November 02, 2017
Episode #59 - Silas Schroeder (Pepper)
The Appalachian Trail is a test for hikers at any stage in life and many people hike their own hikes vicariously through their family members. One of our listeners, Rick Schroeder, sent me an email to thank me for our podcast. While doing so, he mentioned that his son, Silas, had just completed a thru-hike if the trail in September. I was immediately interested in talking with Silas, as his Dad shared some of the changes in Silas that had taken place during his recent adventure. I was not disappointed. He proved to be an articulate, intelligent guest, with a strong sense of family, both trail and parental. Silas would love to catch up with any friends he met on the trail and shared his email, silaseschro@gmail.com , for people to contact him directly. Additionally, he's got a bunch of pics from his hike on Instagram under @silas_schro . He has a blog and a YouTube page with just a couple of videos, so click the links as appropriate. Doctor Lynne gave us some really valuable information about hypothermia, nearly all of which was entirely new to me. Several people have asked for a copy of Lynne's First Aid List from a few weeks ago. Just email me, at steve@mightyblueontheat.com if you'd like a copy. We also gave you a teaser to our new show, Returning to Katahdin: An Appalachian Trail Dream, in which Bruce Matson will be attempting a thru-hike of the AT next year and we'll be following him all the way. Look out for the new show on the morning of Monday, November 6. It will be on iTunes, YouTube and everywhere that you listen to your podcasts. If you'd like to learn more, check out Bruce's website, returningtokatahdin.com . We're also SO grateful to our new title sponsor, Trailtopia. Check out their site, at Trailtopia.com . Their confidence and investment in our show will not only help me to produce more and better content, but will give you, our hiking listeners, a wonderful array of delicious food to help you on your way. Both Bruce's show and Mighty Blue on he Appalachian Trail will be giving away a couple of meals, courtesy of
Thu, October 26, 2017
Episode #58 - Jeffrey Gray (Loner)
From the Class of 2012, this week's guest is Jeffrey "Loner" Gray. Jeffrey gave himself the name Loner, yet he soon discovered the extraordinary friendships that we all find on the Appalachian Trail. He originally came to the trail through the simple act of walking to waterfalls. With more waterfalls to visit, the walks became longer and longer, leading him ultimately to his thru-hike in 2012. He was an early pioneer of YouTube videos to record his adventures, having had a channel previously devoted to skateboarding videos. You can follow him on YouTube and Facebook . His Youtube followers would often ask him questions about all aspects of the trail, and Jeffrey would reply with long detailed emails. Eventually, somebody suggested that he should write a book about his journey and the many hiking tips that he shared. He published the book earlier this year and it is full of tips and tricks, as well as recording his journey. The book is available on the Amazon Store as wells as from his book website, Painted Blazes . I'm also introducing Bruce Matson to our audience this week. Bruce and I are putting together a brand new podcast, Returning to Katahdin: An Appalachian Trail Dream , which will be available from November 6. In this sneak preview, Bruce tells us about one of his motivations for his 2018 thru-hike attempt. Don't forget to watch out for this new and exciting show; you can find it wherever you find the Mighty Blue podcast. Doctor Lynne Savino reminds us of the importance of treating various wounds that one might suffer when hiking. Her common sense guidance differentiates between wounds of a certain type, so there should be something for every eventuality. I'm coming to the end of my own book in the podcast, so I've re-worked the video of New Hampshire and Maine, adding new music and changing how certain pictures appear. I added this to my Facebook page recently but wanted to share it here as well. Lastly, don't forget that you can get both my books as a $20 package, with only $5 for shipping,
Thu, October 19, 2017
Episode #57 - Derrick, Bekah, and Ellie Quirin (Sherpa, Kanga, and Roo)
You probably read about the couple who decided to attempt a thru-hike this summer with their 12-month old daughter, Ellie. I was skeptical myself when I read what they were attempting to do. Having found it tough enough to take care of myself on the trail, the thought of carrying an infant for nearly 2200 miles filled me with dread. Yet Derrick and Bekah Quirin were experienced hikers and really prepared for the trip. Ellie was clearly just along for the ride, but they had an adventure that will live with them all forever. Ellie loved to collapse her parents' poles and would often wander around camp with them, much to the amusement of one and all. You can read about their adventure on their blog, Ellie on the AT , which is being updated now that they are home, They also have an Instagram account, where Ellie is the undoubted star. Lynne Savino, in Doc Spot, features the joys of W.A.D. You'll have to listen to find out what that means! I've added destinations to my podcast this week, meaning that there should be more places to find it. You can now get it on iTunes, Stitcher , Google Play Music , and YouTube . Soon, it will be up on iHeart Radio and Tunein.com. If I can ever work out how to add an iTunes subscribe button to my site then I'll be a happy man.
Thu, October 12, 2017
Episode #56 - Jay Parker (Beans)
I met Beans in my first couple of days on the trail. We shared a particularly funny evening in a bar in North Carolina and I found him to be a very funny, free-spirited kind of guy. He joined quite a large group of hikers who stayed together for several hundred miles. I would often turn up at a shelter in those early weeks to find them all having a lot of fun as a trail family. As these things do, the family split up over time and I ran into Beans once more, somewhere in Virginia. I last saw him in Port Clinton, where I noticed that he was distinctly quieter and more thoughtful. He still made me laugh, but his growing introspection was apparent. In our conversation, he was quietly intense as he considered everything carefully. I even had to edit quite a few of the pauses, from both of us, in order to maintain the flow. Despite that, it was great to catch up with one of my trail friends as he works through what the trail meant to him. You can read Beans' blog at northboundatthruhike and connect with him on Instagram under the name of j.bird1 . In this week's Doc Spot, Lynne Savino gives us some great advice on the type of things we should consider for our first aid kit on the trail. The third interview this week is with Rawmin Ehyai, from Gregory. I took the Gregory Baltoro 65 backpack on my trip and, as I have with other pieces of equipment that I took with me, I wanted to know more about my pack.
Thu, October 05, 2017
Episode #55 - Greg and Jen Seymour (Sunsets and Chica)
Having lived for several years in Costa Rica, Greg and Jen Seymour were searching for an adventure. They chose a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2017 and prepared meticulously so that they would arrive at Springer Mountain in good shape for their journey. Recording their daily progress through YouTube, they grew their audience with their charming–and often hilarious–interactions as they made their way up the trail. By the time they got to Katahdin, they had lost nearly 100lbs in weight between them and gained an appreciation of their capabilities under duress. Jen even felt sufficiently pumped to refer to herself as a "badass." This is a story of how a couple can spend nearly six months in immediate proximity to one another yet retain their spirit, their companionship, and their love. If you'd like to follow Greg and Jen's adventures, visit any of these links on YouTube , Instagram , or Facebook . As they mentioned on the show, they are also both authors, Click on their names to be taken to their respective Amazon author pages. Greg Jen Lynne Savino was a guest on the show several episodes back. It turned out that, along with being an avid hiker, Lynne is also a doctor. Consequently, we've put together "Doc Spot." Each week, Lynne will tell us about medical issues that can arise when out hiking. This week, she gives us advice on steps you should consider before you even set foot on the trail. Great news this week. We're following the preparations and the hike of a member of the Class of 2018. His name is Bruce Matson and, along with fulfilling a long-held dream, Bruce is making this hike about so much more than himself. I really wanted to make this a deep dive into Bruce's hike, so we're starting a new podcast precisely for this purpose. Returning to Katahdin: An Appalachian Trail Dream will be making its debut on Monday, November 6. I hope that you take the time out to listen to Bruce and his story.
Thu, September 28, 2017
Episode #54 - The Catch-Up Show (Tough Girl, BC, and Kickstarter)
We've followed several hikers this year, with Jessa covered pretty much the whole of the way. For this week's show, I decided to find out what had happened to some of the hikers we spoke to in earlier episodes. I wanted to know whether or not they finished and how things may have changed since we spoke with them previously. These three–Sarah Williams, Byron Church, and Kyle Bock–all had vastly different paths to Katahdin, yet all three were happy to share the rest of their story with me. Sarah Byron Kyle You can follow Sarah's video log on Youtube Byron's blog of his various adventures is at earthandasphalt.com Kyle's amazing pictures can be found on Instagram .
Thu, September 21, 2017
Episode #53 - Jeff Alt (Wrong Foot)
When Jeff Alt set out to fulfil a long-held dream and hike the Appalachian Trail in 1998, he could have had no idea that his walk would eventually become the catalyst for a wonderful fund-raising effort that continues to this day. He raises money for Sunshine Homes, a facility that has been home to his brother Aaron for much of his life. Not only did he raise an enormous amount of money for this worthy cause, he became a writer and acclaimed speaker on the back of that singular decision to step onto the Appalachian Trail. He even appeared as a speaker in a Tedx talk . Click on the link to hear his story. He also offers National Park lectures that are free to attend. Click on this link to see an upcoming event in Shenandoah National Park. As you can see below, Jeff also has a very interesting wedding photo!! You can learn a lot about Jeff's myriad interests and adventures by going to his website and, if you have youngsters interested in hiking, check out the official site for his "The Adventures of Bubba Jones" book series. Of course, he is also on Facebook . With the amount of books that Jeff has written, it seems sensible just to link you to his Amazon author page , where you can check out his books, including A Walk For Sunshine . The lovely Kelly Anderson, who we met back in episode #40, spoke with me to let me know how her thru-hike ended. She is always enthusiastic and entertaining to talk with and this was no exception. Lastly, please come and visit (then like) my Mighty Blue on the Appalachian Trail Facebook page. I intend to do a lot more with this page in the future, so stay tuned.
Thu, September 14, 2017
Episode #52 - Jessa Hackman (Attie)
For our 52nd episode–which commemorates the fact that we've been podcasting for precisely a year–I caught up with Jessa Hackman, otherwise known as Attie. Jessa was first introduced to listeners of the show in Episode #16. She had written to me requesting Grizz's hiking preparations spreadsheet and, as I sent that to her, I wondered if she would be a candidate for a project I'd been considering. I wanted to follow a hiker in their preparations for the hike, then continue to hear from them throughout their journey. Jessa had just qualified as lawyer, she was very articulate, and it seemed to me that she had the potential to really give the Appalachian Trail a determined try. We discussed the idea and I immediately gave her an "out." I wanted her to be sure that this show would be something that she could commit to and, after a weekend's thought, she agreed. Later hearing from her mother, Joan, about Jessa's many achievements already in her young life, I knew that we'd found an exceptional woman. Moreover, involving both Joan and Jessa's fiance, Nick, in her journey seemed to give extra impetus to the project. For this week's pictures, I asked for one of Jessa as a lawyer and one of her at her skankiest as a hiker. Typically, Jessa obliged by giving me a neat set of "kind of matching" images. For me, this is something of a sad farewell, as I've thoroughly enjoyed my weekly chats with Jessa. That said, we now have a permanent record of her hike that, in some small way, this show has helped bring to fruition. Hopefully, guests, listeners and I feel some part of that success and can share in the feeling in the picture below.
Thu, September 07, 2017
Episode #51 - Daryl Fleischer (Road Trip)
Daryl Fleischer is aware that his thru-hike, hopefully with his lovely wife, is several years in his future. He has work and family responsibilities, like many of us. Yet his joy at being a weekend or occasional day hiker shines through in our conversation. He is a self-confessed trail addict and is prepared to work for his hiking fixes, including sleeping in his car overnight to get a good spot on McAfee Knob the next morning. If you'd like to follow our weekend warrior, you can connect with Daryl through Facebook . John Boyet returns to feed us another serving of information. This time, John is talking about food and the various options available to hikers. You can always reach out to John for more advice at john@trailwalkergear.com . Don't forget to return to the show next week. I will be celebrating my one year of podcasting and will mark it by talking with Jessa after her successful return from Katahdin.
Thu, August 31, 2017
Episode #50 - Mike Skelton (Bearded Skelton)
Mike Skelton is another listener who wrote into the show and immediately intrigued me. I'd asked for a few examples of the transformative nature of hiking and Mike provided me some thoughtful notes and personal examples. He is a hiker who has spent a lot of time on both the Appalachian Trail and other trails of America. He gave me some useful advice on how to avoid altitude sickness but, as you now know, my body refused to cooperate when I got above about 9,500 feet. Mike is selfless in his desire to get others into the woods and he told me that he led a group to the Appalachian Trail recently. It was a thrill for me when he told me that they listened to my podcast on the drive to Springer. The picture above, on the left, is of that group, while the other is Mike with a bunch of buddies at Glacier National in 2014. The photo below is Mike on his last trip to the AT. You can connect with Mike on Twitter , where he goes under the name @beardedskelton, or email him directly at beardedskelton@gmail.com . This week, John Boyet turns his attention to tents. I wish somebody had warned me that I was going to be sharing my tent with my backpack, so my advice is always going to be this; choose a double if you can. Funnily enough, I think John agrees with me on this one. Ask John anything you'd like at john@trailwalkergear.com .
Thu, August 24, 2017
Episode #49 - Lynne Savino (Caboose)
Lynne Savino wrote to me and gave me some funny examples of the differences between a section hiker and a thru-hiker. I have a lot of respect for section hikers and the way in which they have to rediscover their hiking legs EVERY time they go out into the woods. I love to hear these different perspectives so I invited Lynne onto the show. She told us about how she was introduced to camping as a child by her father through adventures in a GMC Motorhome. The picture below is of Lynne and her brother, by the GMC, somewhere out west in the 1970s. She even tried to replicate that spirit, using the very same GMC, with her own family. While she muses that one day she'll be able to hike the entire Appalachian Trail, Lynne is currently content to hit the trail any time that she can and bite off sections. She can be found on Facebook and Instagram , though she confesses to being a little behind with her Instagram account and promises to do better!! In our conversation, I learned that Lynne is a physician and she shared some important information regarding the almost industrial-scale consumption of Ibuprofen, or Vitamin I, on the trail. She referred to a recent article in the New York Times and sent me a link to it. As I used to ship in four of these wonder drugs every day, I'll be reading it with interest. Now that I'm back home, I've caught up with Jessa once more, so John Boyet's excellent advice series has been pushed back for this week. Speaking with Jessa proved to be a lovely recap and her progress really lifted my spirits. Finally, thanks to everybody who pledged to support me on my hike. While I was unable to complete it–and thus reach out to you to collect your pledges–I'm gratified at how generous some of you were. Stuff like that really warms my heart.
Thu, August 17, 2017
Episode #48 - Edwin Thullen (Bear)
When Edwin Thullen decided to hike the Appalachian Trail he had several challenges to overcome. His sheer size made gear acquisition a formidable process, but he gathered what he could and headed for Georgia. The previous winter had been spent living out of his car, so he was expecting Georgia to be warm. It wasn't. Watch the astonishing physical and mental transformation that Bear undergoes as he learns how to do a thru-hike on the fly. Follow Bear's journey as he constantly readjusts his expectations for his eventual finish and modifies his gear to meet the many challenges along the way. His is a story of resilience that will make you laugh, bring a tear to your eye, and fill you with admiration as he battles on toward his goal. The fact that our conversation has a happy ending is a bonus that will please all of you. John Boyet returns this week with advice on what to look for when you are deciding upon which backpack to buy. You can ask more of John by emailing him at john@trailwalkergear.com Don't forget that you can still pledge a few bucks for my Last 10,000 Feet Challenge to support Family Partnership Center here in Bradenton, Florida. My John Muir Trail is being dedicated to this great cause. Email Bridget Harry at the center at bharry@familypartnership.org . Thanks so much for the support.
Thu, August 10, 2017
Episode #47 - Bethany Varner (Snap)
Bethany Varner completed her hike on July 1 this year. She had zero overnight backpacking experience, yet she adapted so well to the challenge that she was even able to squeeze in a cruise with her boyfriend while on the trail. On the way, she rediscovered her faith in humanity, sharing her journey on YouTube with an ever-growing following. She also blogged regularly, at The Trek. You can see some of her photos from the trail on her Instagram account, and if you happen to tweet from time to time, why not follow her on Twitter ? Without any updates from Attie, John Boyet has stepped into the breach by providing us with some excellent gear advice while I'm away on the John Muir Trail. If you have any questions for John, just email him at john@trailwalkergear.com . If you'd like to follow part of my hike, I'll be posting on Facebook at When I'm 64. Also, if you'd like to pledge a few bucks to the child abuse prevention agency which I'm supporting on this trip, just email Bridget Harry at the agency at bharry@familypartnership.org . Thanks so much for any help that you can give.
Thu, August 03, 2017
Episode #46 - Robby and Meredith King (Doc and Tunes)
When Robby King and his daughter, Meredith decided to hike the Appalachian Trail, his wife Nancy decided that she could support them far better by driving an RV to various road crossings and providing them sustenance and a bed for the night. While Robby and Meredith covered the standard 2,200-mile length of the Appalachian Trail, Nancy chalked up over 10,000 miles of driving to back up their effort. Their story eloquently demonstrates the importance of familial love and support as hikers take on this daunting challenge. The physical changes, particularly in Robby, show the toll that this hike can take on the physique, yet with each of them encouraging the other, they made it to the end just a few weeks ago for that picture of pictures at the top of Katahdin.. Not only did Nancy feed and house her family on the trail, she took a major responsibility in ensuring that their blog was kept up to date. You can follow them here . This episode features the last interview I'll be able to do with Jessa before I leave for California. She only has a few weeks to go and I'm very proud of the part our podcast may have played in helping her during her hike. I'm also, of course, ridiculously proud of Jessa herself. When I return I'll be doing a complete program with Jessa, her boyfriend Nick and her mother Joan. If you can't wait until then, follow her blog and see how she fares. If you'd like to pledge to support my hike of the John Muir Trail, which I'm doing to support families in my local community, please consider pledging a few bucks for Family Partnership Center by emailing Bridget Harry at bharry@familypartnership.org . Thanks to everybody who has done so already.
Thu, July 27, 2017
Episode #45 - Tim McGann (Tadhg)
This week's guest is another from the Class of 2014; Tim McGann, or Tadhg. He shares his story with us and provides the perfect example of how the trail always provides. Indeed, on his first date with Erica, now his wife, she enthusiastically embraced the idea of his hike and supported him along the way, ultimately summiting Katahdin with Tim at the conclusion of his journey. Tim can be found on Facebook and would love to hear from any old friends he may have met along the way. I was able to catch up with Sarah Williams (Tough Girl) from a previous episode. Sarah is attempting to complete the AT in 100 days and, at Day 50, it seemed like a good time to catch up mark her progress. You can follow Sarah's journey on her YouTube channel, though the posts are currently behind this 50-day mark. I had the chance to speak with not only Attie this week but also Joan, her mom. Sadly, I won't be here when Attie summits Katahdin, but I will be doing an episode in September when I return from the John Muir Trail that will cover Attie's reflections of the trail and of course her conclusion at Katahdin. Don't forget. If you can't wait to find out about Attie's progress, she'll be publishing her blog right to the end. Thanks so much for supporting the show so far. If you'd like to support my John Muir Trail hike with the "Last 10,000 Feet Challenge" for a local child abuse prevention agency, Family Partnership Center, please either email your pledge or contact Bridget Harry at the center at bharry@familypartnership.org . I appreciate everybody who has done so already.
Thu, July 20, 2017
Episode #44 - Jan Leitschuh (Liteshoe)
Jan Leitschuh, at the time more comfortable on a horse than hiking through the woods, found herself contemplating a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail following the death of her mother in 2001. To prepare, Jan hiked over 500 miles, including the entire length of the Long Trail. In 2003, she was ready to go. She had already done a trail journal from the Long Trail so it seemed natural to keep that idea alive on the AT. Her journal was all the more remarkable because this was nearly 15 years ago, before the iPhone. Jan used a device called Pocketmail. Reading the journal now gives us a great representation of what it was like to hike the AT at that time. The link above takes you directly to the AT story, though you may find yourself reading her Long Trail journal as well. Jan also produced a book about her Long Trail journey. You can link to that here . You can reach out to Jan via Facebook . I've added a little section about my own return to the Appalachian Trail in the first week of July. We had a blast and I produced this silly little film just for the fun of it. I clearly have waaaaay too much time on my hands. In the picture below we are, from left to right, Lefty Righty, Skeezix, Golden, Sherpa, Skates, Mighty Blue, and Turd Ferguson. Attie continues her quest and is now in Vermont. Her renewed enthusiasm for the trail has been a delight to me. Once again, thanks to those of you who have supported my Last 10,000 Feet Challenge by pledging money to the Family Partnership Center here on the Florida Gulf Coast. It is so much appreciated. If you'd like to support, just send me an email to steve@mightyblueontheat.com with a figure for how much you'd like to pledge and I'll only be coming back to you for the pledge if (when) I complete my John Muir Trail adventure in August. Returning once more to Jan, today, along with her regular hiking a
Thu, July 13, 2017
Episode #43 - Chrissy Funk (C-Funk)
Chrissy is a woman who came to the trail in search of herself. She had endured a difficult personal life and fallen out of love with the person she had become. While the trail can't provide every answer, it can certainly soothe, perhaps even heal, one's soul. She posted several visceral videos on her Facebook page and seemed to be conducting a thorough self-assessment. The trail had several surprises for her, with the latest surprise coming on the day that I posted this episode. Listen to my comments after the interview to do a complete catch up with Chrissy. If you'd like to contact Chrissy, you can email her directly at CFunkWin@gmail.com . Alternatively, she would love you to follow her on Facebook . Talking of catch ups, I was delighted to hear from Jessa after missing out with her last week when I was back on the AT with the Fat Guys, and Gals, Back in the Woods. She continues to power forward and I can't help feeling a little paternal about her. Go Attie / Jessa.
Thu, July 06, 2017
Episode #42 - David DeGregorio (Digger)
Digger was one of the guys I met during my 2014 journey and, as often happened, this short acquaintance proved to assist me in my own hike. Once he'd completed the AT, Digger went on to many other adventures, including the PCT, the Camino and a kind of freestyle journey through France, England and, ultimately Ireland. Digger is currently plotting a beautiful trail through Italy with his 10-year-old daughter, Rosie. He was also involved in a little bit of controversy over his somewhat exuberant celebrations at the top of Katahdin. Frankly, after over 2,000 miles, I would have thought that wouldn't be too much of a problem. Oh well. The one below is the more restrained version. You can connect with Digger via Facebook or just check out his YouTube channel. No Jessa this week, so I had John Boyet on the show to give us a few tips on what to look out for if you're in the market for new boots or shoes.
Thu, June 29, 2017
Episode #41 - Craig McPherson (Spielberg)
I was introduced to Craig McPherson by a listener. He sent me a link to Craig's final video, one that served to represent a summary of his hike of the Appalachian Trail in 2016. It was arresting, to say the least. I've since sent this video to several friends who have been similarly moved and I can say with some authority that this is exactly how the trail feels. Interviewing Craig was just as riveting, for me. He was able to articulate several of the emotions that hit you during a thru-hike. I've also watched a number of his other updates and, together, they stitch together as good a representation of a thru-hike as I've seen. They certainly put my cinematic efforts to shame. If you'd like to see more of Craig's journey, just click on the link below and you'll be taken directly to his YouTube page. If you'd like to connect directly to Craig, email him at athiker117@gmail.com ***THERE IS A CURSE WORD IN MY READING FROM MY BOOK, SO BE PREPARED IF YOU LISTEN WITH CHILDREN*** Attie / Jessa continues to push forward, giving me less than full information on her somewhat lackluster attempt at the Half-Gallon Challenge. There's always a story behind the story! This is the last update for a couple of weeks. When we next hear from her it will be the middle of July. I mentioned my "Last 10,000 Feet Challenge" in the show, which turns my John Muir Trail hike into a fundraiser for an organization very dear to my heart. If you'd like to learn more about the organization or, better yet, to donate to the cause of protecting children, click this link .
Thu, June 22, 2017
Episode #40 - Kelly Anderson (Sleeping Beauty)
Kelly Anderson is a former professional tennis player from South Africa. She came to the US to attend Georgia Tech in their tennis program before taking up coaching positions, first at USF and then as Head Coach at Stetson. She even has her own Wikipedia entry! A chance meeting with a number of AT thru-hikers intrigued her and planted within her a desire to take on the Appalachian Trail someday. Deciding that she needed to do it sooner rather than later, she divested herself of many of her possessions and started from Katahdin 2016, heading south to finish at Harpers Ferry in December. This year, she is back on the trail to finish what she started. Her tale of grit and determination is inspiring. The two pictures below are of Kelly on Mt Madison and, bizarrely, Kelly in rather strange loaner clothes on a launderette stop. There are a bunch of ways to follow Kelly. You can email her, follow her on Facebook or Instagram , and go to her blog as she reaches the conclusion of her journey. Jessa/Attie and Nick continue to travel north, with the halfway point approaching rapidly. You can also follow Jessa through her blog . As a bit of a preview for next week's show, I promised to add Craig McPherson's video to really whet your appetite for our interview. Once you see this, you'll get some of the magic that we used to see on a daily basis on the Appalachian Trail Don't forget that the price of my two Kindle books will soon be increased from $2.99 each to $3.99 each. Save a couple of bucks if you'd like to get the Christmas price mistakenly left up for over six months!!
Thu, June 15, 2017
Episode #39 - Trail Days (Part Two)
This week, I've got another diverse array of guests from Trail Days in Damascus a few weeks ago. While I guess a parade of hikers could have been interviewed, I preferred to go with others associated with the Appalachian Trail, so I've managed to get another interesting mix together. Dan Bedore is hiking a kind of alternative AT, keeping the pioneering spirit of the trail alive by spending large amounts of time totally by himself. He said that he preferred it that way. When I checked his website, bedore.org , I was amazed at the variety of trails that he has completed. For those of you wishing to go a little off the beaten track, Dan's site is a good place to start. You can reach out to Dan at danshike@yahoo.com if you'd like to find out more about his journeys. Next, I spoke with the first of the vendors this week. One of the Jacks, of Jacks R Better, demonstrated the Bear Mountain Bridge Hammock, based upon the design of a suspension bridge. It provides a flat sleeping surface. I was a little doubtful, but it was terrific. Had I seen this in 2014, I may have even considered a hammock. You can find out more about the company at the Jacks R Better website and this video demonstrates the setup of the hammock. Eric Fox, the son of Alison and Bob Fox, hiked the AT a couple of years back. Bob wrote Eric's story for him, in a really interesting family collaboration, called The Endless Trail. Check out the book on Amazon . You can also see more about the book at Bob's website and Facebook page. Click on the appropriate link. Here's a picture of the two of us. Kyle Jeffreys introduced me to a very reasonably priced air pad. The company is Klymit, and I highly recommend their website. I tried out the Static V2. At just over $60, it is a bargain and extremely comfortable. The website will give you far more information, as well as some really excellent deals for somebody putting together a bunch of equipment from one supplier. Once again, click on the link that appeals to you. Moe Lemire is a hiker who wanted to give back. Instead of just talking about it, he joined the NY-NJ Trail Conference, responsible for more than 50 miles of the AT in these two states. If you're from that area, or simply want to see the great work that Moe and his team do, check out their website . Eddie Hinnant was showing us The Packa, his very own invention, at Trail Days. He demonstrated his combinatio
Thu, June 08, 2017
Episode #38 - Kyle Bock (Kickstarter)
Kyle Bock has had some dark days, not least because he lived in Alaska for over fifteen years with no running water and, for the past few years, with no electricity. Kyle has taken on the challenge of an AT thru-hike with an almost professional approach, yet enjoyed his journey as he contemplates what the trail means to him. He is expressing himself with his beautiful photographs, altering them to reflect how he felt at the time. The only contact information that he shared was his Instagram account, which is under the name of Bockasaurus . Pay a visit to Kyle's page; you'll be glad that you did. The three photos here are examples of the thought he has put into his pictures. Kyle hopes to complete the trail in about four months; I'm really looking forward to catching up with him on his return. Attie has reassessed her situation and is now pushing forward with her hike. She continues to enjoy her adventures but has been a great example of somebody who may have expected much of what she has experienced but didn't necessarily count on the yearning to be at home. I faced similar times when I was away; I'm just glad that she has made this reassessment and pushed forward. As always, thanks to everybody who supports the show. I hope that you listen to my new podcast, Mighty Blue on the John Muir Trail when it comes out soon. Watch this space.
Thu, June 01, 2017
Episode #37 - Trail Days (Part One)
A trip to Trail Days wasn't on my itinerary when I hiked the AT in 2014, so my visit this year had a dual purpose. I was going there to both see what I'd missed and to interview others who were attending. I was trying to capture some of the spirit of both Damascus at party time and the Appalachian Trail. This episode will focus on Trail Days and forms the first of two such episodes. I'm still following Attie, as she makes her way north. She has hit a few walls on the way but is upbeat pretty much whenever we speak and is taking each day as it comes. She has teamed up with a couple of other hikers, Bananas and The Machine. Here is her iconic shot at the glorious McAfee Knob. Another past guest, Erin McKenzie, told us about her Fear and Loathing thoughts on the AT. But this week is mainly about Trail Days. I've pulled together a number of the short, live conversations that I had with a wide variety of people. I hope you enjoy them. First up was Nathan Harrington, the enthusiastic maker of his Katahdin sign replica. These signs are all handmade by Nathan personally, so each will be unique. Nathan also has a great story to tell about how he proposed to his lovely wife, Sharon, at McAfee Knob. You can actually see the moment he proposes on his YouTube channel , Between the Blazes, as well as other AT videos. You can also follow him on Twitter as @ToKatahdin . If you'd like to buy one of Nathan's exquisite hand-made Katahdin signs, go to his website, www.betweentheblazes.com Tim Keenan told me his moving story that combined his AT thru-hike with a reconciliation of his "enemy," as he referred to him, later in Vietnam. You can get Tim's book, The Good Hike, on Amazon . It has excellent ratings. Next, I spoke with Will Ransom and his beautiful dog, Retta. They seemed to have such a calm and mutual understanding of one another and were utterly devoted to one another. I asked Will if he'd carry on if Retta couldn't continue. Interesting answer. Dick Klane, from the Friends of Baxter State Park, kindly gave me a run-through of the new rules regarding permits to summit Katahdin at the end of your hike (as a NOBO). It is really worth listening to Dick, because you really need the
Thu, May 25, 2017
Episode #36 - Sarah Williams (Tough Girl Challenges)
Sarah Williams is a true force of nature. Her goal is to inspire women and girls to think beyond the boundaries of their previously limited lives, and she has earned her recognition as a true leader in her community. To challenge herself further, she is attempting a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail from June 2017 and hoping to complete that challenge in 100 days. Her defiant self-belief and powerful determination lead her to challenge others to test themselves. Sarah quit her well-paid City of London job to pursue her dreams and spent 18 months traveling the world, climbing Kilimanjaro in Africa and hiking around South America among her many adventures. She can be contacted in many ways and through many platforms, all of which will appear at the bottom of these notes, after her second photograph. Jessa / Attie has come to something of a crossroads in her hike. We met at Trail Days and she seemed to have made up her mind that perhaps a thru-hike wasn't for her. A couple of days later, she was back hiking, relishing the trail once more and happy with her decision. She'll make the final decision on Memorial Day. Before that happens, though, we got the chance of a picture together for the first time. By the way, I mention my bear sighting in the show. Here is the YouTube link as promised. Back to Sarah and the many ways to contact her. Twitter - https://twitter.com/_tough_girl Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/toughgirlchallenges/ Blog/Website - https://www.toughgirlchallenges.com/ FaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/ToughGirlChallenges/ TRIBE - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ToughGirlTribe/ Tumblr - http://toughgirlchallenges.tumblr.com Pinterest - https://uk.pinterest.com/Tough101/ Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/ToughGirlPodcast?ty=h You can listen to the Tough Girl Podcast on the go via iTunes , Soundcloud<
Thu, May 18, 2017
Episode #35 - Byron Church (BC)
Byron Church has had his sights set on the Appalachian Trail since he read Bill Bryson's book in High School, nearly two decades ago. Section by section, he has completed more than 2,000 miles of the trail and will be finishing this year. As all section hikers do, Byron has had to earn his hiking legs every year. He reached out to me to tell his story as he is soon to set out for his final leg later this year. You can follow Byron on his blog, earthandasphalt.com and contact him at earthandasphalt@gmail.com In this week's Fear and Loathing on the Appalachian Trail, I caught up again with Steve Walker, or Big Bird. Steve was forced off the trail last year and has returned to complete his mission. He's currently slogging his way through Pennsylvania's rock and you can hear that in his voice! Steve's has one of the more thorough video logs, so follow him on YouTube if you want to share his journey towards Katahdin. Attie had a big decision to make this week. She has struggled with homesickness and needed to take a week's break before she made up her mind what to do. Thanks to all for your support, via email, reviews or through my book sales. I'd also like to thank those of you who have signed up to be patrons on Patreon, though you'll notice that nothing has been debited from you. It was me; I messed up my Patreon entry. I'll be trying to resolve it soon. The joys of technology in your 60s!!
Thu, May 11, 2017
Episode #34 - John Vonhof (The Foot Guy)
John Vonhof should be everybody's best friend. For years, he has been tending the feet of the people who most abuse them—hikers and runners. His experience as an ultra-runner led him to a life-long interest in the treatment of feet, and he understands what we do wrong and how we can correct it. I, along with many of my fellow hikers, completely ignored my feet on the trail. They hurt, my toenails dropped off one by one, and I lost feeling in my toes for about four or five months after I finished. I had no idea how I should treat them and I'll certainly be taking some of the precautions that John shares with us for my upcoming hikes later this year. If you'd like to learn more about the very simple steps you can take to protect these most valuable of assets, click on this link to John's Amazon page. You can also check out his blog , on his website, fixingyourfeet.com . John also has his own podcast, Writers Authors On Fire . Jessa has hit something of a wall. She has been doing really well to this point and has at last encountered an inevitable downturn. How she copes with this will be the catalyst for her success, or her failure, in completing her hike. We can only wish her well. She'll be sharing her thoughts further in her blog post later today. Thanks again to those of you supporting me on Patreon . Also, your support for my two Appalachian Trail books continues to keep them in the Top 20 Camping books on Amazon. Thanks once more.
Thu, May 04, 2017
Episode #33 - Ron Tipton (Turkey Foot)
This week, I'm interviewing Ron Tipton, a man who has spent his entire adult life in conservation and the environment. He hiked the trail in 1978, yet it isn't his hike that we're going to discuss in any detail. When Ron completed his thru-hike, he had already determined that this was a life and a career that he wanted to pursue. He has spent more than 40 years of his career as an advocate for public land preservation and national park protection. He became the President and CEO of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy in 2013. Visit the ATC's website, www.appalachiantrail.org . It is full of great information about the trail and I confess that it was a great education for me. I read the strategic plan and really understood the rationale behind it. Ron and his team at the ATC are simply planning for the future of OUR trail. For that, we should all be eternally grateful. You can email them at info@appalachiantrail.org , or call them on 304-535-6331. You can even find Ron on LinkedIn . In case you were wondering, the handsome young dude with the wild beard below is young Ron. Jessa's backpack woes continued this week, with the resolution to her problem waistband still elusive. She seems to face these problems with a smile and a shrug. Hopefully, she'll get the matter resolved in Damascus. If you'd like to see what an utter ARSE I made of myself at Laurel Falls, click here . Be warned, it isn't pretty. I appear after about 11 seconds. The falls are pretty though, aren't they? If you like what we're producing for you on the show, please consider supporting us at www.patreon.com/mightyblue . I'm planning on adding a couple of new shows after my hiking this year, so any help with this is much appreciated.
Thu, April 27, 2017
Episode #32 - John and Melody Bock (Bypass and Songbird)
In early November 2013, John Bock had a triple bypass following a completely unexpected heart attack. He and his wife, Melody, had planned to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail from March 2014—which is what they did. They flip-flopped and completed their adventure at Harpers Ferry in November 2014, just over a year after the news that would have postponed, or even abandoned the dreams of less determined people. Their remarkable story, along with the radical lifestyle that they have since adopted, is told in this interview. They are homeless by choice, fearless, and ever moving forward, refusing to stop their enviable lifestyle. Melody even had the time to give me a botany lesson on the trail, identifying plants as we walked by until she pointed out something that she referred to as a Lady Slipper, but which, to me, would always be known as Vasectomy Surprise. John and Melody would be happy to hear from old friends and fellow hikers at jhbock3@gmail.com , while they can also be found on Facebook. Click either John or Melody. Their journey wasn't easy, but they made many friends along the way and proved, yet again, that the trail can get you through your toughest days if you keep moving forward. Attie continues to revel in the trail, though this week she had her first setback. When she told me about it I was worried for her but she just shrugged it off and got on with it. Her perseverance was rewarded with a really sweet dollop of trail magic, administered by one of our wonderful, caring listeners. Thanks, Casey. In Fear and Loathing, Gary Sizer confesses to his worries about having a damp hike, and admits to his doubts along the way as he got closer to Katahdin. You can read about Gary's journey by going to his Amazon page for Where's the Next Shelter? It is a really funny read and one that I highly recommend. Please consider supporting the show by becoming a patron at Patreon . Thanks to those of you who have already done so.
Thu, April 20, 2017
Episode #31 - Steve Adams (Mighty Blue)
As this is my show, I thought I'd get myself interviewed and, in the absence of any questions from my listeners, I went ahead and asked Diane, my lovely wife, to interview me. She asked me a few things I hadn't really thought too much about and, listening back as I edited the show, I realized how much I'd changed in the past few years. The thought say, ten years ago, that somebody would one day interview me about hiking was as likely as somebody asking Kim Kardashian the nuances of nuclear fission. It just wouldn't happen. I was able to reflect further on my own hike, as well as my upcoming trip back onto the AT and my real task for the year of my second (and probably last) attempt at the John Muir Trail. I'll be blogging about that journey and eventually writing a book about it. You should know my email address by now, but you can also find me on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube . I love to hear from people and always respond. Atticus (Jessa / Attie) is through the Smokies and continues to have a blast. She seems to be having the best of the weather in this rather unpredictable year. Fear and Loathing this week is a longer than normal interview, with Gabe Burkhardt (Hermes or Sketch). He talks of the importance of finishing his 2016 hike and the internal precipice he found himself on the edge of during that hike. This is a powerful conversation that you may consider unsuitable for children. Read Gabe's excellent blog . He pulls no punches and illustrates his stories with great sketches. Thanks as ever for supporting the show, either on Patreon or buying my books . I'm so grateful to everybody for their support. Remember, you can also get my free e-book, Hiking the Appalachian Trail is Easy: Especially if You've Never Hiked Before , by going to my author's site, steveadams.info and leaving your name and email address.
Thu, April 13, 2017
Episode #30 - Jean Sobus (Sicilian Gypsy)
When Jean Sobus decided that she was going to hike the Appalachian Trail, she didn't let a little thing like plantar fasciitis stand in her way. In much the same way, stage 3 breast cancer wasn't going to deter her from the Pacific Crest Trail. Jean's solution to obstacles and negativity is to go for a very long walk. Her adventures included a 60-mile walk through the night, fueled by espresso milkshake, and an encounter with what she believed to be a mountain lion. She suffered spine fractures while undergoing chemo to treat her cancer, yet chose to find her cures on the trails of America, inspiring others with her fight. The picture below was taken just after finishing the Appalachian Trail, when she'd discovered her cancer diagnosis. One week later, she lost all her hair. Undeterred, Jean took part in bike rides to raise money for charity, and this speech is a great example of her refusal to be defined, or even slowed, by her cancer. She even shared a video of her dancing in a gorgeous blond wig and removing it mid dance. Battling her illness all the way, she completed the Pacific Crest Trail in 2015, two thirds of the way to a Triple Crown. You can email Jean at sobusjean@gmail.com , and find her on Facebook . Jessa, or Atticus, is now past the 150-mile mark and continues to show her sunny disposition as she makes her way north. This week, she's about to climb into the Smokies. Remember to follow her blog , which she updates regularly. Clay Bonnyman Evans gives us his fears before setting out, with rain right at the top of the list. As you can read in Clay's blog , he needn't have worried. Thanks to those of you who have supported the show at Patreon . I truly appreciate it.
Thu, April 06, 2017
Episode #29 - Trevor Thomas (Zero/Zero)
Trevor Thomas was an adrenaline junkie in his mid-thirties when he started to lose his sight. Six months later, he was completely blind. After a spell of understandable bitterness, Trevor refused to allow his new circumstances to define him. Approaching the logistical issues with a precise attention to detail, he set out on a new journey. This has led him to hike nearly 20,000 miles in the past ten years. His story is inspiring, as is his mission to empower blind and visually impaired young adults while challenging the misconceptions the sighted community has toward the blind. He founded Team FarSight Foundation, Inc. to achieve this goal in 2014. Since 2012, Trevor has been accompanied on his many adventures by his remarkable companion, Tennile. There are many ways to contact Trevor; Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram , as well as through his website . He and Tennile continue to inspire those of us who often take our physical well-being for granted. Jessa is now in her first 100 miles and enjoying every minute. Don't forget to follow her blog, which you can reach here . I caught up with her a couple of times this week. James Claiborne, another guest from a previous episode, shares his pre-hike concerns. They proved to be groundless as he reveled in the companionship of the trail. Please consider being a patron of the show. Go to patreon.com/mightyblue to support me. Thanks
Thu, March 30, 2017
Episode #28 - Matthew Norman (Odie)
The Hiker Yearbook is fast becoming a must-have item for thru-hikers of recent years. Matthew Odie Norman is providing a great service to hikers as he not only provides trail magic but also puts together his own version of magic with this glorious keepsake from that magical time in the woods. He is reaching out to his community to allow them to reconnect after the trail, answering his own question after reaching the summit of Katahdin, "What's the second book?" The Hiker Yearbook is the second book. Critically, he would appreciate the support back from his community in the form of your vote, every day until April 5. Click on Fedex to be taken directly to the voting site. Please don't pass this by. We can do it. You can reach out to Odie in several ways. There is his website , Facebook , and Instagram . Check him out and encourage this great project. You can also email him directly at hikeryearbook@gmail.com . Jessa, or Atticus, or Attie, is on her way. The first interview, from Gooch Gap is pretty lousy quality, which was entriely down to my boyish enthusiasm and stupidity, but the second is a lot better. She is having a blast and I hope you're looking forward to hearing more from her as she makes her way north. The amazing Stacey Kozell continues to disarm me with her glorious self-deprecation as she describes her pre-trail concerns in Fear & Loathing on the Appalachian Trail. Yes, her concerns APART from being paralyzed. You never have a conversation with Stacey without feeling better about your own blessings. You can support my efforts in the show by buying my books or supporting the show on Patreon. There is a button that can take you directly to my Patreon page, or you could simply click here .
Thu, March 23, 2017
Episode #27 - Diane Gonzalez-Adams
Did you ever wonder what it is like for those we leave behind? Listen to my wife Diane talking about the impact that my hike had on her life. She is forthright and brutally honest in our.conversation, telling me a couple of things we'd never really discussed before. I even left in something that I'd originally intended to leave out when she hit me with another revelation. When I was editing this interview, I was struck by the passion that she eventually had for MY adventure. Her understanding of it, and the AT sense of community, helped her to cope better with our separation. I always knew that I was a lucky guy; this proved it to me yet again. I just hope that everybody on the A.T. this year has somebody at home who cares as deeply for them and their journey.. Our globe-trotting adventurer, Jessa, has returned from her pre thru-hike trip to Europe. She had just a couple of days at home and will be leaving on her hike this morning, March 23. We spoke for the last time when she got to Atlanta. The next time we talk, she'll be somewhere on a mountain. I can't wait and will be presenting her updates from the trail every week. You can also follow her blog, by clicking here . Dixie gave us plenty of sensible advice with her Fear and Loathing segment. She, too, is preparing to plunge back into the "homeless by choice" lifestyle, as she is getting ready for her PCT adventure. Don't forget to follow her on Facebook at Homemade Wanderlust Backpacking Forum and, of course, catch her great YouTube series of videos which will soon include scenes from her PCT trip This week, I introduced my Patreon account for the people who'd like to support the show with a couple of bucks every now and then. You can find the page at www.patreon.com/mightyblue . I hope you'd like to become a patron if you enjoy what I'm sharing with you each week.
Thu, March 16, 2017
Episode #26 - Erin McKenzie (Camaro and Chevy)
Erin McKenzie loves her dogs. She hiked nearly half of the Appalachian Trail with her favorite, Chevy, before having to leave the trail through injury. Chevy was such a star that Erin was totally aware, yet totally happy, to be a sideshow in the Camaro and Chevy team. She then took on the Colorado Trail with three of her dogs, for reasons that will become apparent in her story. Her resilience and the strength that she found on both trails are inspirational. These pictures of Chevy and Camaro together, and her three loaded-up dogs, convey the peace, the quiet, and the magnificence of both the Appalachian Trail and the Colorado Trail. Erin also sent me another couple of pics, once again with Chevy and one of the team of four at the finish of the Colorado Trail. You can find Erin on Facebook and email her at emckenzie47@gmail.com . With Jessa vacationing in Europe, I took the opportunity to chat with Kate Schmidlin's mom, Jeanne. Kate was in episode #21, and I thought her instinct to suggest that I should speak with her mother was a good one. There can't be many tougher things for a mother to do than to wave goodbye to her daughter as she plunges into a forest. You'll really love Jeanne's attitude. Our old friend Grizz resurfaced recently in Florida and we spent several hours together, so I took the opportunity to record a fear and loathing section with him. As always, he was insightful and interesting. Please keep the reviews ticking over in iTunes. They really help me gain visibility (and often make me feel good at the same time). Lastly, don't forget that I'm relying on you, my listeners, to ask me questions you may have for this aging, fat, fool who thought that hiking 2100 miles for my first hike was a good idea. As it turned out, it really was a good idea. If you click here , you'll be taken to the SpeakPipe button.
Thu, March 09, 2017
Episode #25 - Janet Hensley (Miss Janet)
You get very few opportunities in life to spend time in the company of a living legend, so it was gratifying to learn that Janet Hensley, or Miss Janet, was the real deal. I was lucky enough to have a wide-ranging conversation recently with Miss Janet about all things Appalachian Trail. She proved to be incisive, engaging, and generous with her time and opinions. She is truly the hiker's best friend, putting herself out to help anybody who requests her assistance. When we touched upon some of the occasional bad behavior on the trail, she even jumped to a possible defense of the perpetrators. It is an indication of the regard in which she is held on the trail that she was confident in insisting that I took her personal phone number to make sure that anybody on the trail who needs help can call her. So, with some trepidation, her number is 423-483-0620. She can also be emailed at TheMissJanet@gmail.com and will be happy if you look her up on Facebook , though apologized because Facebook will not allow her to exceed her current total of 5,000 friends! Jessa is so ready to go that she has taken a week or so off to go on vacation to Europe! Her latest update shows the value of organization. We'll soon be hearing from her as she gets those first miles under her belt. John O'Shea and I just chatted in our Fear & Loathing segment, and I'm really looking forward to spending a week in July with John and his Fat Guys Back in the Woods. If you'd like to join us, email John at john.skeezix@gmail.com . Please try to leave a review of the show on iTunes . Click HERE to be taken to the show in the iTunes Store.
Thu, March 02, 2017
Episode #24 - Jason McElroy (Cavey)
Jason is an experienced hiker with a purpose. This year, 2017, will be his fourth attempt at an Appalachian Trail thru-hike. His calm demeanor and desire for simplicity in his life made for an interesting conversation as he prepared to hit the trail in the next few days (March 2017). I'll be following his progress and wish him well as he moves toward Katahdin. You can follow Jason's progress yourself at his blog, Cavey's Adventures . He can also be found on Facebook and Youtube . Just click on the links. With just three weeks to go herself, Jessa is saying her goodbyes. A combined engagement and farewell party probably emphasized the imminent separation, yet she is looking forward ever positively. It's going to be great to catch up with her on the trail. My Fear and Loathing section this week caught up with my fellow Class of 2014 member, The Muffin Man, Sam Weber. As others have said, fear of failure was a strong motivating factor after being an initial concern. Don't forget to check out my books, My Appalachian Trial I: Three Weddings and a Sabbatical and My Appalachian Trial II: Creaking Geezer, Hidden Flagon . Once again, just click on either of the links. They are currently (3/1/2017) at #5 and #9 in the Top 100 Camping Books on the Kindle Store. I have kept the low price of $2.99 each that I set at Christmas. I hope that you check them out to support the show.
Thu, February 23, 2017
Episode #23 - Charlotte Taney (Two-Pack)
Charlotte Taney was transformed by the Appalachian Trail. Initially nervous, she blossomed into a steely-eyed hiking machine. That, at least, was how she was described in one blog. She tells about her journey and the changes she recognized in herself. Charlotte would love to hear from fellow hikers or anybody who'd like to tap into her experiences. She can be emailed at char_runstrack@yahoo.com , while you can read her blog about the Appalachian Trail on Blogspot . The link will take you to part one of her trail journey. She's also on Facebook . Jessa continues to prepare diligently, with an early shakedown of her pack. Please keep trail names for Jessa coming in. Brandon Bowers of Cascade Designs told us about my favorite air pad, the Therm-A-Rest Neo Air XLite. This far exceeded expectations (how could it not; I didn't even know I needed one) and I kept snug and comfortable at night. You can find out more about Therm-A-Rest and other outdoor gear by Cascade Designs by calling them at 800-531-9531. We had another visit from our very own Triple-Crowner, my buddy, Francisco Miller, or Karate Kid. Remember to write to me to tell me what I'm doing wrong, and right. Drop me a line about anything to steve@mightyblueontheat.com .
Thu, February 16, 2017
Episode #22 - Rad Watkins (The Bear Whisperer)
First things first, it was me who named Rad Watkins The Bear Whisperer. He didn't have a trail name, but he certainly had a story. Rad is a landscape ecologist and motivational speaker. It seemed a good time for somebody to allay the fears of many as they start to gather in Georgia and find their way north. Bears need to be treated warily though not with fear. Brad has tracked Grizzlies and studied them in the wild, so his knowledge of bears is extensive. He has also incorporated animals into his Animal Leadership talks. If you'd like to find out more about Rad, and Animal Leadership, just go to his website, www.animalleadership.com . On the home page, you can take his test to establish what type of leader you are. You can find Rad on Facebook and email him at info@animalleadership.com . He's also written on the subject of Animal Leadership and you can find his books here , while there is also an excellent short video, here , with highlights of Rad giving a motivational speech, using his Animal Leadership approach. If you want to hear Rad reading the first chapter of his book, then click on the file below. [audio mp3="http://mightyblueontheat.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/03_Chapter_1.mp3"][/audio] Brandon Jacob, or The Dude, returns with the first "Fear and Loathing on the Appalachian Trail." While I'm not too sure about the sound effects for this segment, I think the interviews will be useful for hikers who may be doubting their ability to take on the trail. We ALL have concerns; it is how we address those concerns that decide how successful we're going to be. Jessa has just five weeks to go, and is now attending to the various bits of life that she needs to put on hold until she returns home. This week, she tells us that her last item of gear has been bought. From now, she'll be counting down the days. Keep your comments and reviews coming. They help the show in the iTunes rankings and encourage me to do better. Also, don't forget to email me if you have something to say in the "Fear and Loathing......" part of the program. See you next week.
Thu, February 09, 2017
Episode #21 - Kate Schmidlin (Tigger)
One of the fearless women I met in the Class of 2014, Kate Schmidlin, or Tigger, embodied the spirit of the trail. I never saw her pissed off at anybody, she was constantly laughing and never complaining. We didn't see each other after Damascus, but she left a big impression on me. She talks with an endearing openness about some of the rigors of being a woman of child-bearing age on the trail. It is, of course, a subject on which I had no opinion, yet one that affects nearly half of all hikers. Kate is very willing to hear from any of you who might prefer a longer conversation on this and, indeed any other subject about the trail. Her email address is klschmidl@sbcglobal.net and she is also on Facebook as Kate.Schmidlin . She even shared her phone number for those wishing to either reconnect with her or have a longer conversation. Call her at 330-842-7225 but please be aware of the time if you call. She also blogged about the trail at klschmidl.wordpress.com . Congrats to Jessa and Nick, and big props to Jessa's mom for doing what only a mother could do; loudly proclaiming the strength, endurance, and all-around great qualities of her daughter. With just six weeks to go, we'll soon be talking to her from the trail. Remember, you can contact Jessa directly at jessahackman@gmail.com Please keep the reviews and emails coming, as well as trail names for Jessa . Hearing from you all really lets me know where I'm going right and where I need to make changes. If you'd like to support the show further, please check out my books on Amazon. The link to my author page is here . If you'd rather get my free book to see if you like how I write, just click on steveadams.info and sign up for it. See you next week.
Thu, February 02, 2017
Episode #20 - Brandon Jacob (The Dude)
Brandon Jacob, AKA The Dude, became something of a social magnet on the Appalachian Trail in 2016 with his Dudefests. Straight out of the corporate world and seemingly out of place in the slightly less genteel life of the trail, he embraced it, and its characters, with relish. There were two Dudefests; one at Trent's Grocery in Virginia, with Dudefest #2 attracting quite the crowd at the Inn At Long Trail, in Vermont. I've circled the Dude in the bottom left-hand corner of the picture. I chatted with The Dude while he was driving to a weekend away. The audio isn't great but the conversation was fun. The Dude can be contacted at Brandon@contractorscfo.com , while he can also be found on Facebook as Brandon Jacob . His blog is at http://trailjournals.com/jakethefake and for those of you who may have met him, he has a great picture collection of the people he met on YouTube at this link, https://youtu.be/8H_ZemBZl4U Jessa continues her preparations for her start date next month. This week, she learns how to navigate around a car park. It makes much more sense when you listen to Jessa explain it! Please keep the reviews and emails coming, as well as suggestions for Jessa's trail name. Remember, the email address is steve@mightyblueontheat.com and don't forget to check out my books, which are linked here on Amazon. See you next week.
Sat, January 28, 2017
A brief announcement
If you'd like to follow the presentation live on Facebook, just click on the link below, which will take you to my profile page. This will also allow you to access the presentation when I post it later that afternoon. Steve's Facebook page
Thu, January 26, 2017
Episode #19 - Steven Cullen (Scotty)
Steven Cullen was a section hiker who I met on my first day on the trail. We clicked straight away and he continued to follow my, and other, blogs once he finished his week-long section hike. I thought it might be helpful to include a section hiker in the podcast and, though I met many, he was my first thought. In our interview, we talk about the differences between section and thru-hikers, with Steve making some perceptive, and funny, observations. He is one of the group of hikers who may one day take the life-changing step to thru-hike but, as you'll hear, he'll be a section hiker for the time being. Steven can be reached at steven.cullen.70@gmail.com . He will be happy to offer advice if anybody reaches out to him. Jessa continues her preparations for her March 23 start date. She shares her latest update, with, of all things, health insurance being a concern. What I loved about this update was that Jessa is feeling accountable to the show, which is giving her some discipline in getting done the things she needs to achieve. We still need more entries for Jessa's trail name. I'll be sharing them all with her a week before she sets out. Remember, the prize for your choice being the one chosen is both volumes of my book on the A.T from my 2014 thru-hike. Keep the entries coming to steve@mightyblueontheat.com . Indeed, anything you want to share about the show should be sent to that address. Our third interview was with Aaron Martray, the owner of Katabatic Gear. When I hiked the A.T. in 2014, I took the Palisade 30 quilt with me. It is STILL the "Editor's Choice" on the invaluable www.outdoorgearlab.com , three years later. I found it to be both light and incredibly warm. It even helped me survive a seven-degree night in the Smokies. It wasn't cheap but worth every cent. If you'd like to find out more about the Palisade 30 or any other Katabatic Gear bag, just email Aaron at info@katabaticgear.com , or call him on 303-984-4189. If you want to read the review on the quilt, click here . You'll probably notice that "If I Did It Again" is missing this week. This is partly because there are three interviews, but mainly because I've run out of stuff I'd change were I ever to slog my way up the eastern side of the country again. However, I'm sure one or two of my listeners will have their own pet peeves about the trail. Please don't keep it to yourself. Email me and I'll share your gripes with everybody. Happy Trails!!
Thu, January 19, 2017
Episode #18 - Patrick Bredlau (RW)
Patrick Bredlau had a truly life-changing experience on the trail. His candor at his spiritual epiphany was touching, while his encounter with a man hiding from his past seemed to provide a counter-point. Following his hike, he has given talks about the trail and exhibited pictures from his journey. Some of these photographs are on show at the Illinois State Museum. The museum also sells his book and 50% of the royalties from those sales are donated to the museum. Other ways to get the book include his website, http://appalachiantraildiary.com/ , where you can buy the book directly from Patrick or, of course, Amazon . If you'd like to contact Patrick, you can email him at rw.roadwarrior@gmail.com or find him on his Facebook page , where you'll find his speaking engagements on his event calendar. The pictures below are one of Patrick at the top of a cold Mt. Washington, a copy of his book cover, and one of the two of us just before the end, in Maine. We both look very reflective. I'd still like to hear from you with a trail name for Jessa, more "If I did it again" ideas, and any other suggestions you may have for the show. The more we can interact with each other, the better the show will be. See you all next week.
Thu, January 12, 2017
Episode #17 - James Claiborne (Buchanan)
James Claiborne was a fellow member of the Class of 2014. I only met him a few times, though once, memorably, at the Curly Maple Shelter, just outside Erwin, TN. He was with the self-styled team of No Parents, No Bedtime, with Hawkeye, True Story, Science Tooth, and James, or Buchanan, himself. Their joy at being on the trail was infectious, with the team sticking together, in one iteration or another, for about 1,900 miles. They took time off the trail together, they camped together and, for a lot of the time, they hiked together. From left to right, No Parents, No Bedtime are James (Buchanan), True Story, Hawkeye, and Science Tooth. I still can't get over the fact that these crazy hikers did this. By the look of the picture, nor can they. You can find James on Facebook by clicking here , and you can email him directly at raven2543@mail.com . Jessa Hackman gives her first update in this week's episode, with her choice of footwear her main focus. Jessa is still hoping to be named by our listeners, with a prize of the print versions of my books, My Appalachian Trial I: Three Weddings and a Sabbatical and My Appalachian Trial II: Creaking Geezer, Hidden Flagon for the winner. Please don't forget to rate the show on iTunes and leave a review; it really helps and I appreciate the effort. To make it easier, click here , and you'll be taken straight to the podcast on iTunes. Thanks!!
Thu, January 05, 2017
Episode #16 - Jessa Hackman
In this first episode of 2017, I'm introducing Jessa Hackman, our very own member of the Class of 2017 thru-hikers. She is from Madison, Wisconsin, is 25 years-of-age and has just qualified as a lawyer. The picture below is of Jessa at her graduation with her grandfather, the man Jessa credits with her decision to go to law school in the first place. Jessa contacted me to get a copy of Grizz's logistics spreadsheet from Episode #6 and I reached out to her in the hope that she would share her preparations for the hike, as well as give us regular shorter updates from the trail when she starts on March 23. With a bit of luck, we'll be following her all the way to Katahdin, sometime in August. In this first interview, Jessa tells us her concerns for the trip as well as recounting her current preparations. She is aware of the rite of passage that will result in a trail name but is open to suggestions from our podcast listeners, so please email me with any of your ideas. Jessa has just started a blog that you may wish to follow. You can find it here . If you'd like to contact her directly, she is happy to share her email address, jessahackman@gmail.com . Given the fact that this initial interview was shorter than some others, I've included the first of an intermittent series of product reviews. This is based upon the things that I took with me and starts with an interview with Henry Shires, of Tarptent. During our conversation, I refer to a setup video for the tent. Click here for that. I'm sure that you can see why it was so attractive to me. Henry provided me with great customer service, so if you have any questions, I urge you to get in touch with him here .
Thu, December 29, 2016
Episode #15 - Clay Bonnyman Evans (Pony)
Clay Bonnyman Evans, 55, is a writer who moved to the beaches of South Carolina in 2015 after spending his previous life in the mountain west and California. His three published books—a memoir about his years working as a cowboy, a children's holiday picture book, and the story of an iconic hardware store in Boulder, Colo.—are out of print, but you can find them on the Amazon Marketplace by searching his name. He blogs at claybonnymanevans.com , including the ongoing tale of his thru-hike, The Trail Is the Teacher. He'd be delighted to hear from any fellow hikers, so feel free to email him about anything at claybonnyman@gmail.com . I found Clay to be a really interesting guy to chat with. He started his hike in 2016 with the intention of just doing a long section hike. However, the trail got to him and he worked out his own way to achieve a thru-hike. We discuss a number of topics, but I was most interested in the way he brought up the fact that a sort of depression can descend upon you after your hike. As my wife, Diane, says, "you all seem to get some form of depression after the trail and have difficulty getting back to your lives." I'd really love to hear from any of you who feel that you can explain this phenomenon. Please remember to rate the show on iTunes. It will only take a moment and means so much to me.
Thu, December 22, 2016
Episode #14 - Jessica Mills (Dixie)
The prolific Dixie has 15,000 subscribers to her YouTube channel following her 2015 thru-hike. Her engaging manner has drawn people in and that shines through in this episode. She is also a successful author, publishing her book, Take a Thru-Hike: Dixie's How-To Guide for Hiking the Appalachian Trail (picture below). She shares a few of her stories in this episode, as well as talking about her videos, which she posts on a weekly basis. For anybody considering hiking the AT in 2017, watch Dixie's videos covering all the issues you and your wife/mother/husband/father will be worrying about as you set out on your journey of a lifetime. Apart from her YouTube channel and her book, there are many other ways to connect with Dixie. Her blog can be found at http://www.homemadewanderlust.com/ , while she is also on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter , and Pinterest . Just click any of the links and they will take you to Dixie's sites. For some reason, this only works if you're on my podcast website. Please make sure that you come and listen to the podcast every Thursday. You'll be able to find all the episodes at my website, mightyblueontheat.com , as well as on iTunes and Stitcher. While you check out Dixie's book, you may wish to head over to my story from my 2014 thru-hike. The books are My Appalachian Trial I: Three Weddings and a Sabbatical and My Appalachian Trial II: Creaking Geezer, Hidden Flagon . If you like my podcast you'll love the books.
Thu, December 15, 2016
Episode #13 - John O'Shea (Lumberjack)
John was a lot of fun to interview. He's also clearly a joyous hiker, despite hiking in 2003, one of the five wettest years on record. He gives back to the trail with his annual trail magic on Labor Day in Maine. Additionally, he heads a bunch of guys known as the "Fat Guys Back in The Woods." Wouldn't you want to be in that little group? If you do, or even if you'd like to chat with him about it or even join his trail magic spectacular, you can email him directly at john.skeezix@gmail.com . Don't forget to leave any comments for me at the website, on iTunes, or on Stitcher. Email me directly at steve@mightyblueontheat.com , if you'd prefer. You can also get a FREE copy of my ebook, Hiking The Appalachian Trail Is Easy: Especially If You've Never Hiked Before by visiting my author's website, steveadams.info . I hope you like the new cover.
Thu, December 08, 2016
Episode #12 - Kaiha Bertollini (Wild Card Ninja)
In 2016, Kaiha Bertollini, the Wild Card Ninja, laid claim to the unsupported hike record on the Appalachian Trail. This, despite no previous experience as an elite athlete or even any indication that she might be able to take such an endurance test on. The response in the hiking world was almost uniformly negative and very hostile. Kaiha agreed to tell me her story and, whether you believe her or not, it is gripping and worthy of an audience. The interview is not explicit, but her story on her website, hikeforourlives.org is certainly not for children. That said, I urge people to read what she has to say. She can be reached through the website under the contact page and will respond personally to every message. I'd also love to hear what you have to say about Kaiha and the interview. If you click here , you'll be linked to the visceral video I referred to in the interview. It left a lasting impression upon me. The language is very strong, so beware once more. Don't forget to rate us on iTunes or leave me a message at my website, www.mightyblueontheat.com . There, you can listen to all my podcasts, look at a gallery of photographs from my 2014 thru-hike and see some of the videos I made of the trip.
Thu, December 01, 2016
Episode #11 - Gabe Burkhardt (Hermes or Sketch)
Gabe Burkhardt has hiked on the Appalachian Trail three times: 2014, 2015, and 2016. He completed his thru-hike in 2016 but has covered more than 4,000 miles on the trail. When I hiked with Gabe, in 2014, he was known as Hermes, and his calm intensity left quite an impression upon those around him. Coming back to the trail with the intention of an entire thru-hike in 2016, he charted his course with a truly visceral blog, named Almost Unsalvageable . He has a bunch of his artwork on the site and I've included a couple of examples at my website, mightyblueontheat.com , in the show notes for this episode (for some reason, these pics don't get shown on iTunes or Stitcher). The first one is of Gabe on the sign at Katahdin, the second is a picture of the indispensable Miss Janet, while the third is a terrific representation of the AT sign, made from the equally indispensable Snickers!! You can also contact Gabe at gabeburkhardt@me.com and he'd be delighted to give you any assistance that he can. Don't forget to rate the show on iTunes and Stitcher with a review and a few kind words (or even what you really think!!) about the show.
Thu, November 24, 2016
Episode #10 - Gary Sizer (Green Giant)
Gary Sizer is a former US Marine who hiked the AT in 2014. We never met on the trail, but we are now Facebook friends. Gary wrote a book about his experiences and while that is going really well, his current claim to fame is an amazing picture posted on Reddit that shows the devastating effects that the AT can have on a hiker's body. Gary is a good sport for allowing this to be shown here, though, as it has been seen more than 3,000,000 times, it might be regarded as a trifle late to keep it under wraps!! There are a bunch of ways to contact Gary and share his story. His books (Kindle, paperback and audiobook) can be found on Amazon . He's accessible on Twitter and Facebook , as well as at his website, wheresthenextshelter If you'd like to follow me, I'm also on Twitter and Facebook and you can find all the podcasts, plus videos and photographs, at my website mightyblueontheat
Thu, November 17, 2016
Episode #9 - Francisco Miller (Karate Kid)
Francisco Miller was one of the funniest guys I met on the trail. Consistently cheerful, we met him in New Hampshire and hiked with or around him for several hundred miles. His story continued after the Appalachian Trail, culminating in a thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail in 2016, having chalked up the Pacific Crest Trail in 2015. He is articulate on the subject of hiking and will happily respond to any questions that hikers may have. He can be contacted directly at francisco.miller@gmail.com . His pictures, particularly those he posted this year from the Continental Divide Trail, can be seen on Instagram at kk_hikes . Check those out; I guarantee you won't be disappointed. The picture below is one of me and Karate Kid in Maine, at the top of a mountain, with just two weeks to go. He's watching me fill my face with a whole jar of peanut butter. Don't forget to leave a comment on either iTunes, Stitcher or even on my website.
Thu, November 10, 2016
Episode #8 - Stacey Kozel (Ironwill)
This is an extra special episode. Stacey Kozel was diagnosed with lupus at the age of 19 years and has fought a battle against it ever since. Not wishing to be defined by her disability, Stacey embraced the challenge of a complete thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. She was fitted with sophisticated braces, controlled by microprocessors, that allowed her to achieve the unthinkable. Stacey is a powerful advocate for the battle against lupus and is happy to speak with anybody who wants to know about her hike or the disease. It was a privilege to be able to speak with Stacey and to find a funny, determined woman who never wants to regret not having tried her best. On her Facebook page, she is wearing a T-shirt that says "Living. It's the only thing worth dying for." And so say all of us. Stacey can be contacted by email at skozel221@gmail.com
Thu, November 03, 2016
Episode #7 - Steve Walker (Big Bird)
Steve Walker set out to hike the A.T. earlier this year with the intention of reaching Maine by October. On the way, he shared his stories and his thoughts regarding the trail, in a regular series of videos uploaded to YouTube. He attracted over 1500 subscribers, and his gentle, measured delivery was compelling. For me, Steve's finest moment was his unexpected bear encounter. Here is the link https://youtu.be/ig_79TOKJjI It cracked me up. The bear comes onto the scene at about three minutes. Enjoy. Steve can be contacted at mh60pilot@cox.net . He'd be happy to share advice and speak with hikers he met and one's he may have missed. This week, I introduced a new little segment, called "If I did it again." These are things I may have changed were I to hike the AT again. If any listeners have their own improvements to this magical hike, please let me know. You can contact me at steve@mightyblueontheat.com and don't forget to get the free ebook on my writing site, at steve@steveadams.info . If you enjoy that, I hope you then move on to the two books of my hike. See you all next week.
Thu, October 27, 2016
Episode #6 - Stephen Martelli (Grizz)
One of the most recognizable figures I met on the trail, Grizz gave me some really helpful advice in those early miles. He bore an uncanny resemblance to Santa Claus, pulling out the great man's hat on several occasions to keep us amused. He is full of knowledge about the trail and will happily respond if you'd like to email him. He can be reached at sjmartelli2186@gmail.com . He is a great resource. I was entirely unable to figure out how to attach his spreadsheet (mentioned in the podcast), so drop him an email and I'm sure he'll be happy to send it to you.
Thu, October 20, 2016
Episode #5 - Maud Dillingham and Cesar Becerra
Maud and Cesar hiked their "thorough hike" in 2001, spending more than a year on the trail. They were determined to squeeze every last experience from the Appalachian Trail, covering the nearly 2,200 miles across all four seasons. Their dog, Trudy, joined them and turned out to be the star of their movie. I particularly liked the way in which Cesar "helped" Trudy cross a river! For trail historians, the movie contains the added bonus of an interview with trail legend, Earl Shaffer. If you'd like to see it, contact Cesar at takethefuturecamping@gmail.com, or visit www.thethoroughhikers.com . Don't forget to upload my free ebook, HikingThe Appalachian Trail Is Easy: Especially If You've Never Hiked Before. You can get it by visiting www.steveadams.info
Thu, October 13, 2016
Episode #4 - Sam Weber (Muffin Man)
Sam is an all-round good guy who would be happy to speak with anybody he met on the trail or anybody who just wants another perspective about life on the trail. His joyous approach to camping and hiking will inspire anybody who thinks they can't do the Appalachian Trail. Email him at weber.samuelj@gmail.com . Also, don't forget to take advantage of my free ebook, Hiking The Appalachian Trail Is Easy: Especially If You've Never Hiked Before. Pick it up at my author website www.steveadams.info Lastly, please email me with any comments, both good and bad, at steve@mightyblueontheat.com, or leave me a review on iTunes. I really appreciate the support.
Thu, October 06, 2016
Episode #3 - Brooks Smith (Wing It)
Brooks' excellent blog can be found at www.bounceinthewoods.wordpress.com . Don't forget to rate the show on iTunes and email me on steve@mightyblueontheat.com if you have anything you'd like to say or suggestions for future shows. Like the A.T. itself, this can be a collaborative process.
Thu, September 29, 2016
Episode #2 - Max Mishkin (Bearbag)
To learn more about Max, whether about his photography or his work for ATC, you can email him at mishkinphotography@gmail.com . If you want to see some of his awesome black and white photos, go to www.mishkinphoto.com . Max also mentioned a Facebook group for further advice. Click on this link Appalachian Trail Expert Advice Remember to go to my author website, www.steveadams.info and download my FREE ebook, Hiking The Appalachian Trail Is Easy: Especially If You've Never Hiked Before. See you next week. Cheers
Tue, September 20, 2016
Pilot Episode #1: Mighty Blue on The Appalachian Trail
A short introduction to the podcast and a few upcoming guest interviews. Listeners will get an early feel of the show as Steve sets the format for the Georgia-to-Maine hike. At the end of each episode, including this one, will be the latest chapter from Steve's book, My Appalachian Trial I: Three Weddings and a Sabbatical.
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