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 https://www.hikingradionetwork.com/p/woods-hole-weekend/

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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/

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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/

For the next week only (closing at midnight on March 15th), there is a discount of $100 for early purchasers. If you’ve invested your time and money in your thru-hike, you should consider this series as a critical investment, from people who have all completed thru-hikes of the Appalachian 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, 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.

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-96d3-11ed-866d-db2e785a2b17.html">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-https://county10.com/distance-hiker-who-passed-through-lander-completes-calendar-year-triple-crown-hiked-appalachian-pacific-crest-continental-divide-trails/

Active NorCal-https://www.activenorcal.com/chico-hiker-completes-coveted-7500-mile-triple-crown-in-one-calendar-year/

Pitt State Magazine-goal-hike-nations-three-longest-trails-in-365-days.html">https://www.pittstate.edu/gorillaconnection/2022/01/grads-goal-hike-nations-three-longest-trails-in-365-days.html

Pitt State Magazine-completes-calendar-year-triple-crown.html">https://www.pittstate.edu/gorillaconnection/2022/11/grad-completes-calendar-year-triple-crown.html

Black Hills Pioneer-7d9a-11ed-ac0f-07d33e6519f7.html">https://www.bhpioneer.com/local_news/former-bhsu-athlete-completes-calendar-year-triple-crown/article_a8eecf5a-7d9a-11ed-ac0f-07d33e6519f7.html

Hays Post-https://www.hdnews.net/2022/02/05/blazing-a-trail/

Four States Homepage-https://www.fourstateshomepage.com/local-news/psu-alum-attempts-to-hike-the-triple-crown-in-one-calendar-year/

Our Mighty Blue Class of 2023 is now fully fleshed out. It’s only the hike that needs to be completed now!! This week, we catch up with Mark Carpenter, who begins next week, while Carl Bergquist will be on the trail, at Amicalola Falls, while many of you are listening to the show on Thursday morning.

Doctor Lynne gives us chapter and verse on dealing with the dreaded blister when you’re out there. Don’t forget, you can download a short document on any of the topics that Lynne has discussed in this series on the show by clicking on the link below. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1CJ5llgK7FUnbKnbtbWlsP6v_4dNentVa?usp=sharing

Two reminders this week.

First, you can join me LIVE tonight (March 2) on Jester’s Section Hiker podcast for an exciting announcement. Just click on the link below as we go on air.

https://youtube.com/live/Q88Nmojeo_w

Second, if any of you are in the vicinity of Amicalola Falls State Park this coming weekend, March 5, you can see me present at the AT Kick Off at 10:30 Sunday morning. My subject is “The Adventure of a Lifetime.”

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 United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

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!!??

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 Publishing at the address just above.

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 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.

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 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 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 Publishing at the address just above.

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.comIf 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.

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–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.

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, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

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!

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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.

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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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

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 $31, including postage to the United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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 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.

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.

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 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.

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 United States) send a check payable to Mighty Blue Publishing at the address just above.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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? at.com/events/launch%20party">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 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.

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 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.

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, 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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 - from Glencoe "Pods" (Mile 72.4) to Kinlochleven (Mile 81.3), an 8.9 mile day

Day 9 - from Kinlochleven (Mile 81.3) to Fort William (Mile 96.8), a 15.5 mile day.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 (signed copies of 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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Pony, who joined me on the podcast and on my 2019 thru-hike.

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Dixie, who I podcasted with as she took on the CDT in 2018, and who has become a friend of mine over the years.

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Then, there are my podcast colleagues on the network; Anna, Jester, and Courtney.

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Finally, we'll talk with my two hiking partners from 2019, Trigger and Cushy.

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When they've had their say, I give you a few thoughts of my own. I hope you enjoy this very different show.

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 OF THE YEAR.

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 planning an extremely early start!

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Finally, we have the first part of Chapter 15 in Winton Porter's "Passin Thru," where Winton feels the power of an earthquake before trying to set a personal best in a run up Blood Mountain.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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Deb and Danny share their insights and reflect upon the correlations they have found between hiking the trail and those other disciplines.

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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.

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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.

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.

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

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 mission is to use HTGH to raise mental health awareness and help fund organizations dedicated to improving mental health. Several years ago, Jesse's own mental health struggles led him to become suicidal. He was at a crossroads and asked himself, “Do you want to continue on like this, a path that could end in tragedy, or do you want to live?” A series of serendipitous events led him to stumble upon Bill Bryson’s book A Walk In The Woods about hiking the Appalachian Trail. A few months later, he found himself at the trailhead on Springer Mountain about to embark on a 2,200 mile hike, despite the fact that he’d never so much as pitched a tent before. It was the walk that saved his life.

He has since hiked over 7,000 miles and has used his story to inspire countless others. Through his writing and social media presence, he's gained a significant audience who have inspired him to continue growing my mantra “Hike the Good Hike” into a mental health awareness movement. Check out Jesse's video here.

OUR COLLABORATION:

The Youth Mental Health Project is delighted to announce a new partnership with the amazing Jesse Cody and Hike the Good Hike. The mission of The Youth Mental Health Project is to educate, empower, and support families and communities to better understand and care for the mental health of youth. Hike the Good Hike is committed to raising awareness about mental health and helping people cultivate more positive mindsets and lifestyles. Together, we will work to create a world where people are just as aware of their mental health as they are of their physical health, and where all families are able to readily access the mental health care and support they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives. 

While hiking the Pacific Crest Trail this summer, Jesse will be busting stigmas, increasing awareness, raising critical funds, and celebrating hope by "Walking and Talking for Youth Mental Health" - turning his powerful hike into a mental health awareness movement! His goal is to bring attention to the importance of understanding mental health and to raise $50,000 to fund essential programs of The Youth Mental Health Project that support and educate families who are struggling. Show your support by DONATING to his campaign or follow Jesse on social media:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hikethegoodhike/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hikethegoodhike

and https://www.facebook.com/jesse.cody.77

The Youth Mental Health Project is on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ymhproject/

and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/YMHProject

And even after these extensive notes, Randi sent me more vital information.

• Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for people ages 10 - 34
• 1 out of 5 children experience a mental health disorder in a given year
• Mental health disorders are more common than cancer, lung disease, and heart disease combined
• 50% of all lifetime cases of mental health disorders emerge before the age of 14 years old
• Just like with any other health condition, early intervention and prevention can improve outcomes
• A 2015 study from Stanford University found that walking in nature yields measurable mental benefits and may reduce risk of depression. https://news.stanford.edu/2015/06/30/hiking-mental-health-063015/
• one study showed a reduction in stress-related responses such as lower levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) in saliva after hiking. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/14/8/905
• Research suggests that hiking mountainous areas with altitude differences can increase feelings of valence (pleasure), elation (or happiness) and calmness, and feelings of anxiety and fatigue may decrease immediately after hiking. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0177719

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 gratefully received.

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.