Shows
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealJeffrey Binney on Joy, Mental Health, and Outdoor Storytelling | Andy Films and Hikes PodcastThis week I’m joined by Jeffrey James Binney — adventure traveler, storyteller, and content creator based in Denver. Before trading the stage for the trail, Jeffrey performed in the Chicago and First National Tour of the Broadway musical The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and even appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman. After losing his mom to heart disease, he ran a 100-mile ultramarathon and made the award-winning documentary Once Is Enough (now on Amazon Prime). He’s worked with brands like REI, Westin, and Brooks Running, and is currently writing his next book, Motivationally Unstable (coming...
2025-10-1055 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealEducation, Outdoors, and Empowerment with Alistair Green — The Outdoorsy EducatorThe Andy Films and Hikes PodcastThis week I’m joined by Alistair Green, the Outdoorsy Educator. Alistair was raised in Glasgow, Scotland by a nurse and an educator, and now lives in Denton, Texas with his wife and two dogs. He is a lifelong public school teacher who now serves as a college professor at Texas Woman’s University, where he prepares future teachers and explores practical ways to connect education with the outdoors.Alistair’s passions include sports, hiking, camping, road trips, and time with family. The outdoors is his reset button and a key...
2025-09-3039 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealThe Healing Power of Nature with Dr. Suzanne Bartlett Hackenmiller MDThe Andy Films and Hikes PodcastThis week I’m joined by Dr. Suzanne Bartlett Hackenmiller — physician, author, wife, mother, and Chief Medical Advisor at AllTrails. Suzanne is board certified in OB-Gyn and Integrative Medicine, with additional certifications in herbal medicine, Ayurveda, meditation, and nature and forest therapy.She is the award-winning author of The Outdoor Adventurer’s Guide to Forest Bathing and the founder of Trail Rx, a program that provides parks and trail systems with “nature prescriptions” to improve mental and physical health. Suzanne has served as Medical Director of the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, lead physician...
2025-09-2243 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealMarley Blonsky: Redefining Cycling for Every BodyThe Andy Films and Hikes PodcastThis week I’m joined by the incredible Marley Blonsky — cyclist, advocate, athlete, writer, and co-founder of All Bodies on Bikes. Marley is a passionate advocate for size inclusion in cycling and the outdoors. As the co-founder and Executive Director of All Bodies on Bikes, she has built a national movement to make cycling more welcoming and accessible for people of all sizes, identities, and backgrounds.Marley’s work has been featured by The TODAY Show, The Washington Post, Bicycling Magazine (where she was named Rider of the Year), and Outside Ma...
2025-09-1339 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealTrace Dominguez: Why Science Communication Matters More Than Ever (FULL VIDEO)What happens when you mix YouTube, curiosity, charisma, and a whole lot of science? You get this week’s guest: Trace Dominguez! Trace Dominguez is a science communicator, producer, television presenter, and digital creator. His work appears on channels from Vox Media, Discovery, Science, PBS television, PBS Digital Studios, and more. His production company, Trace Elements Media, develops, pitches, creates, and publishes content with partners and clients. On his podcast That’s Absurd Please Elaborate, Trace and his co-host answer silly questions by citing real research. Trace creates science videos on his YouTube channels Trace Elements and Uno Dos of...
2025-07-0147 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAlice Ford: Blazing Trails from Stunt Work to Solo Adventures on PBSWhat happens when you mix solo travel, stunt work, Emmy-nominated storytelling, and a deep love for wild places? You get Alice Ford.This week on The Adventure Is Out There Podcast, Andy Neal sits down with Alice Ford—stuntwoman, TV host, outdoor creator, and the visionary behind the PBS show Alice’s Adventures on Earth.Alice’s path has been anything but linear: from a childhood spent running barefoot through the woods of New Hampshire, to doubling actors in Stranger Things and Transformers, to filming herself trekking through some of the most remote places on earth. In a...
2025-04-1844 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealTrace Dominguez: Why Science Communication Matters More Than EverWhat happens when you mix YouTube, curiosity, charisma, and a whole lot of science? You get this week’s guest: Trace Dominguez! Trace Dominguez is a science communicator, producer, television presenter, and digital creator. His work appears on channels from Vox Media, Discovery, Science, PBS television, PBS Digital Studios, and more. His production company, Trace Elements Media, develops, pitches, creates, and publishes content with partners and clients. On his podcast That’s Absurd Please Elaborate, Trace and his co-host answer silly questions by citing real research. Trace creates science videos on his YouTube channels Trace Elements and Uno D...
2025-04-0950 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAimee La Joie | Actress and Content CreatorThis week I am so excited to talk with comedic actress and content creator Aimee La Joie.
Aimee is a comedic actress and content creator. She is best known for her viral The Film Crew series. She resides in San Diego with her fur child, Lydia.
More About Aimee: http://www.aimeelajoie.com
Follow Aimee on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/aimeelajoie
Follow Aimee on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aimeelajoie
Follow Aimee on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmATPHNS0gWjigjJGmF1GRA
Music is licensed from M...
2024-05-2053 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealShilletha “Dragonsky” Curtis | Hiker, Author, Influencer, & Mental Health AdvocateThis week I am so excited to talk again with my friend, Hiker, Author of the upcoming memoir Pack Light: A Journey to Find Myself , Influencer, & Mental Health Advocate, Shilletha “Dragonsky” Curtis.
Follow Dragonsky on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/i_am_dragonsky/
Pre- Order Pack Light: A Journey to Find Myself https://books.disney.com/book/pack-light/
Andy and Shilletha's conversation from February 2022: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5yeoaSwdWlvrChf4tbKSvQ?si=dbdb699113a14ce2
Music is licensed from Musicbed.com.
Subscribe to my YouTube: www.youtube.com/@andyfi...
2024-05-0535 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealErick "Dogfoot" Andino | Hiking the Pacific Crest TrailI am so excited to have Erick Andino trail name "Dogfoot" on the show this week! Dogfoot was born and raised in L.A. but traces his roots toHonduras, Central America. Erick served as a firefighter/medic in the Navy from Aug 2001 to April 2009. In 2022 he took on the PCT as his 1st thru hike with the ultimate goal of going for the triple crown.
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
Gregory Packs. To get 15% off your order, and help Andy out use promo code ‘Andy15’ when you check out at https://www.gregorypacks.c...
2023-11-2156 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAndrea Kelly | Make Plus EqualThis week I'd like to welcome the founder of Make Plus Equal, Andrea Kelly.
Voted by Outside Business Journal as one of 2022's Twenty Most Influential people in the Outdoor Industry, Andrea Kelly has been championing Size Inclusion in the apparel industry for over 20 years.
With her belief that every body deserves the same amount of choice, she launched her consultancy, Make Plus Equal in the Spring of 2023. Her mission is to educate and guide apparel brands and retailers as they work to serve a more size-inclusive consumer base than they've traditionally served in the p...
2023-11-0200 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealRolland Tizuela of CampthropologyThis week I am super excited to talk to Rolland Tizuela of Campthropology.
Rolland is a California-based outdoor enthusiast, gear aficionado, and cultural observationist that advocates for safe, clean, and responsible recreation in US public lands. He focuses on camping gear reviews, outdoor tips & tricks, and travel recommendations aimed at campers of all experience levels. A McNair Scholar of University of California San Diego, Rolland's research focused on transformative aspects of long distance hiking. He earned his BA in Sociocultural Anthropology in 2018.
Follow Rolland on TikTok: https://www.tiktok...
2023-03-301h 05
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealIt's Been A Minute: Andy Answers Your QuestionsSo yeah, it's been a minute but I am back answering your questions!
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
CNOC Outdoors making our adventures the best possible, simple, enjoyable, fulfilling and sustainable. Use the link & be sure to use coupon code 'Hiker Podcast' for 10% off trekking poles. https://tinyurl.com/2p93ecrv
Gregory Packs. To get 15% off your order, and help Andy out use promo code ‘Andy15’ when you check out at https://www.gregorypacks.com/ ...
The Music for the Hiker Podcast is licensed from Musicbed.com. This weeks opening song is “Begin Again” by A...
2023-03-2251 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealCal "Starburst" Dobbs (they/he) | The Hiker PodcastBy far one of my favorite interviews in 30 months of doing the Podcast.
This week I’m excited and honored to have a conversation with Cal "Starburst" Dobbs (they/he)!
Cal "Starburst" Dobbs (they/he) @cal_hikes is a 26 year old queer and trans hiker, runner, and teacher. They are the first known transgender person to complete the Triple Crown of hiking. Cal used his 7,000+ miles of backpacking to raise $7000 for the Trevor Project, an organization that provides resources and support to lgbtq+ youth and allies. In 2023 Cal will be running across America to raise aw...
2023-01-041h 06
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealSarah Red-Laird of Bee Girl | The Hiker PodcastWe're back and I am so excited to have Sarah Red-Laird of Bee Girl on the show.
Sarah Red-Laird is the founder and Executive Director of the Bee Girl organization, a grassroots nonprofit centered on bee habit conservation through research, regeneration, & education. She is a graduate of the University of Montana's College of Forestry and Conservation and the Davidson Honors College with a degree in Resource Conservation, focused on community collaboration and environmental policy. Sarah also serves as the “Kids and Bees” program director for the American Beekeeping Federation. To see her commitment to good policy and commun...
2022-12-111h 11
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealDerick Lugo | The Hiker PodcastThis week Andy is excited to Welcome Back Hiker, Speaker and Author Derick Lugo!
Storytelling is Derick Lugo’s forte; he’s the author of the popular book, The Unlikely Thru-Hiker, a humorous memoir of his 6-month thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. He has written several pieces for outdoor magazines, short stories for various books and is currently working on two new books, including a children’s picture book, and a second memoir detailing his 5-month thru-hike of the Continental Divide Trail.
He’s a sought-after keynote speaker, adventurer, and host of the Unlikely Stories Podcast.
To learn more about Derick Lugo, h...
2022-10-2049 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealMeredith McAlister | The Hiker PodcastThis week Andy is excited to talk to hiker and traveler Meredith McAlister.
Meredith McAlister is a solo travel enthusiast, Instagram influencer and HR professional. Meredith discovered her love of the outdoors when she was young and is passionate about sharing that love with others. She has solo traveled all over the world and wants to inspire other women to follow their passion and curiosity and get out and explore. They outdoors have been key to unlocking her overall happiness, peace and pleasure.
Follow Meredith on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/meredithtx/
Our...
2022-10-1239 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealThe Hiker Podcast | Chelsea McCurdyThis week I am so excited to welcome Chelseas McCurdy to the show.
Chelsea McCurdy is a queer plus-sized hiker who advocates for body positivity, health at every size, and joyful movement. She believes that nature is healing and that everyone deserves to enjoy the outdoors, regardless of their body type or fitness level. She lives in Arkansas and owns a business (Hobbit Hikers) dedicated to hikers who love to take their time, enjoy the view, snack a little along the way, and experience nature on their own terms. She is also a video creator on TikTok...
2022-09-0154 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealSeason 4 Finale | The Hiker PodcastEnding season four, Andy reflects on the last four seasons, where the show is going, and how hiking in the hiking and outdoor community has impacted him.
Season five will begin August 1.
Follow Host Andy Neal on Instagram: www.instagram.com/andyfilmsandhikes
This weeks episode was recorded and edited in its entirety at the podcast studios at Catalyst Ashland. Catalyst Ashland is a family-run, BIPOC, and veteran-owned business in the heart of Downtown Ashland, Oregon. A collective creative co-working space serving the community and its visitors, especially BIPOC, LGBTQ, and Southern Oregon friends...
2022-06-2641 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAsk Andy Anything | The Hiker PodcastThis recording is 3 weeks old but happy to finally get it out... Andy answers your questions!
Follow Host Andy Neal on Instagram: www.instagram.com/andyfilmsandhikes
This weeks episode was recorded and edited in its entirety at the podcast studios at Catalyst Ashland. Catalyst Ashland is a family-run, BIPOC, and veteran-owned business in the heart of Downtown Ashland, Oregon. A collective creative co-working space serving the community and its visitors, especially BIPOC, LGBTQ, and Southern Oregon friends to support and encourage diverse entrepreneurship and collaboration. For more information about Catalyst Ashland go catalystashland.com
...
2022-06-091h 03
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealEmmeline Wang | The Hiker PodcastThis Week Andy is excited to welcome Climber, Backpacker, Storyteller, Model and Advocate Emmeline Wang to the show!
Climbing and the outdoor environment are what inspire Emmeline to advocate for the things that matter: our earth, social equity and justice, and finding peace through the chaos we all experience. Emmeline lives for getting high off the ground, playing in the vertical world, and protecting the places that we love.
Check out more from Emmeline at https://emmelinewang.com
Follow Emmeline on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/emmelinewang
Phone Credit: Rachel Ross https://www.instagram.com/rach4thesky/
This weeks episode was...
2022-05-1536 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealTara Laidlaw of the Southern Oregon Land Consevancy | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am excited to have our first IN PERSON interview of the show. I sat down with Tara Laidlaw of the Southern Oregon Land Conservancy to talk about her story and work, climate change, educating children and adult about the outdoors and how hikers can help conserve the land they are hiking on...
Tara has worked in place-based education for 15 years as a frontline facilitator, instructional designer, teacher trainer, and program manager, helping students develop scientific, environmental, and social-emotional literacy in outdoor spaces. She grew up exploring in the high Sierra, and now calls southern...
2022-05-091h 00
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealLogan Marie | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am excited to have writer, influencer and hiker, Logan Marie
Logan Marie is a writer, content creator, hiker and outdoors woman based out of Oregon. We talk about how Logan discovered her love of the outdoors and its mental health benefits, moving to Oregon, becoming a content creator and the tension content creators and influencers face being authentic in the outdoor industry.
Follow Logan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsloganmarie/
Check out everything Logan has going on on her site: http://www.itsloganmarie.com
Our host Andy...
2022-05-0344 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealEoin Hamilton of Hiiker | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am excited to have Eoin Hamilton, Chief Marketing Officer of Hiiker and Host of The Hiiker Podcast.
Follow Hiiker on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiiker_/
Check out the Hiiker App: https://hiiker.app
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
CNOC Outdoors making our adventures the best possible, simple, enjoyable, fulfilling and sustainable. Use the link & be sure to use coupon code 'Hiker Podcast' for 10% off trekking poles. https://tinyurl.com/2p93ecrv
CS Instant Coffee makers of environmentally sustainable and great tasting instant coffee for the trail. Use the link to get yours and help the sho...
2022-04-1944 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealDarrah Blackwater | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am excited to have back on the show Runner, Hiker, and Advocate Darrah Blackwater.
Darrah Blackwater is from Farmington, NM and is a citizen of the Navajo Nation. She is a recent graduate of the University of Arizona, where she earned her law degree studying Indigenous law and telecommunications law. In July of 2020 she hiked the 486-mile Colorado Trail to raise awareness about the digital divide in Indigenous communities. Last month she ran to Oak Flat with a group of O'odham and Yaqui runners in solidarity with Apache Stronghold. She lives in Santa Fe...
2022-04-051h 03
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealWill “Akuna” Robinson: Thru Hiker | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am excited to talk with thru hiker Will “Akuna” Robinson.
Will “Akuna” Robinson (he/him) is an army vet who has used thru-hiking as a tool to manage PTSD. He is the first known Black man to earn the Triple Crown of hiking, which is the completion of the Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail and Continental Divide Trail. Along the way, his journey became a mission not just for himself to heal but to share the healing power of nature with veterans, people of color and everyone who doesn’t fit the stereotype of an outdoorsy person.
Follow Akuna...
2022-03-2942 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealKara Richardson Whitely: Author, Influencer, & Hiker | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am excited to talk with Author, Influencer, & Hiker Kara Richardson Whitely.
Kara Richardson Whitely is the author of Gorge: My Journey Up Kilimanjaro at 300 Pounds, which is being made into a movie starring This Is Us actress Chrissy Metz. She took on 100 miles of The Long Trail in 2020 and wrote about being fat shamed along the way in this piece for Backpacker magazine.
As an advisor & influencer, she helps brands connect with the 67 percent of women who are size 12 and above. She has worked with L.L. Bean, KEEN, Pfizer, Uber, Smuckers...
2022-03-1458 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealNelson Holland: Hiker and Influencer | The Hiker PodcastWelcome to The Hiker Podcast. This week I am excited to talk with Hiker and Influencer Nelson Holland.
Hey my name is Nelson Holland better known as Fatblackandgettinit. I was born in NY but moved to Colorado in 2014. Ever Since I saw the Rockies in person, I was enamored. At first I would drive around and take in the beautiful views but before long, I knew I had to get out and explore. One day I ran into a herd of elk hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park and I turned into the 5 year old version of my...
2022-03-0934 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealSkye "Trouble" Schneck: Hiker and Trail Angel | The Hiker PodcastWelcome to The Hiker Podcast. This week I am excited to talk with Hiker and Trail Angel Skye "Trouble" Schneck.
Skye "Trouble" Schneck grew up in the Sierra hiking and camping. It wasn't until she was 30 that she started backpacking and it was love at first sight. Since then, she has backpacked all over from the Adirondacks to Patagonia. "Trouble" has hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, the Long Trail and the Colorado Trail. In the future she plans to complete the Continental Divide Trail, Appalachian Trail and many more.
Skye's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com...
2022-02-2837 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAsk Andy Anything |The Hiker PodcastWelcome to The Hiker Podcast. This week I am answering your questions from Instagram.
Be sure to subscribe to Andy’s new YouTube Channel- ‘Andy Neal: Plus Size Hiker”- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvQMSeBpY4zwyFBB5Z8U79Q
Follow Host Andy Neal on Instagram: www.instagram.com/andyfilmsandhikes
Follow Andy on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andyfilmsandhikes
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
CNOC Outdoors making our adventures the best possible, simple, enjoyable, fulfilling and sustainable. Go to https://cnocoutdoors.com and be sure to use coupon code 'Hiker...
2022-02-1558 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealThe Hiker Podcast: Shilletha “Dragonsky” CurtisWelcome to The Hiker Podcast. This week I am excited to talk with influencer, writer, and hiker Shilletha “Dragonsky” Curtis.
Shilletha Curtis (she/her) known on trail as "Dragonsky " is a queer hiker, professional writer and influencer from New Jersey who is actively pursuing the Triple Crown of hiking. She will be the second Black woman to achieve the status and will be thru-hiking the Continental Divide Trail this April. And, she successfully completed a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail in November 2021. Shilletha is also an excellent writer and her first article "Not Just Another Hiker" was publ...
2022-02-0852 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealRetha Charette: Hiker, Writer, and Adventurer | The Hiker PodcastWelcome to The Hiker Podcast. This week I am excited to talk with hiker, writer, and adventurer Retha Charette.
Retha Charette is a long-distance hiker, travel writer, and adventure lover. As a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts, she learned at a young age how to get outside and make the perfect s'more. In 2015 after her divorce she decided to climb Mount Kilimanjaro on a whim. After that, there was no turning back from a life of adventure. Since then she started her blog, roamingnanny.com, to help women find adventure all over the world. She has...
2022-01-3148 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealThe Hiker Podcast: Chamise Kramer, Public Affairs Specialist with the Rogue River Siskiyou National ForestWelcome to The Hiker Podcast. This week I am excited to talk with Chamise Kramer, Public Affairs Specialist with the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest!
A Southern Oregon local, Chamise Kramer got her art degree in 2001 from Southern Oregon University, and realized that her soul craved the next step. So, she went back to school to become a botanist—because plants are COOL. (Fun Fact: “chamise” is a plant—a shrub—and Chamise’s mom is also a botanist. Hence Chamise’s name!) Chamise’s career in public lands stewardship is approaching two decades, and has included working across all of southwest Oregon...
2022-01-241h 02
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealTim Mathis: Author and Hiker | The Hiker PodcastWelcome to the Season 4 Premiere of The Hiker Podcast. This week I am excited to talk with Hiker, Traveler and Author Tim Mathis!
Tim Mathis was raised near Middletown, Ohio. The town was the subject of J.D. Vance's memoir of poverty and suffering, "Hillbilly Elegy," but he didn't think it was that bad. He completed a Masters Degree in Theology and worked as a minister in Ohio, New Zealand and Seattle before leaving religion and retraining as a psychiatric nurse a decade ago.
Along with his wife Angel, he's travelled extensively in North and South America, Australia, New Zealand...
2022-01-161h 22
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealSeason 3 Finale... FINALLY! | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am finally closing out Season 3 with the promised Ask Andy Anything Episode.
Thank you all for an amazing 2021.
Season 4 Begins Monday January 17.
Be sure to subscribe to Andy’s new YouTube Channel- ‘Andy Neal: Plus Size Hiker”- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvQMSeBpY4zwyFBB5Z8U79Q
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
CNOC Outdoors making our adventures the best possible, simple, enjoyable, fulfilling and sustainable. Go to https://cnocoutdoors.com and be sure to use coupon code 'Hiker Podcast' for 10% off trekking poles. Or is this li...
2022-01-031h 04
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealMike “Nomenclature” Aspiras | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am so excited to talk with hiker, backpacker, & photographer Mike “Nomenclature” Aspiras.
Born in California and have been living along the West Coast Mike is serving as a member in the US Coast Guard as an Operations Specialist with main focus on emergency management and search and rescue. Outside of the service, Mike is a volunteer with the National Park at Point Reyes National Seashore patrolling the trails and assisting other backpackers. In addition, Mike is also a graduate student with California State University Long Beach contributing to research in the emergency services field. On the trail, goin...
2021-12-1347 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealLucy Navarrete | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am so excited to talk with hiker, baker, & small business owner Lucy Navarrete.
Lucy Navarrete, 27, is a baker & small business owner in Big Bear Lake, Ca. When she isn’t busy making cakes, she uses any chance she gets to get outside with her dogs, Oli and Xena.
Lucy started hiking only about a year and a half ago after a hard break-up. The day she made one of the hardest decisions of her life, she went on a hike and has continued to hike regularly since then; she even joined and re...
2021-12-0837 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealCharlotte Buell | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am so excited to talk with hiker, lawyer and outdoor advocate Charlotte Buell.
Charlotte is a lawyer by trade and outdoor junkie at heart. When you meet her, you’ll quickly learn she is all about supporting others in believing they can do and be anything they want, regardless of their life history or body type, and to be gentle with themselves along their life’s journey.
Backpacking and hiking are her favorite ways to spend time outside. However, she doesn’t stop there. Charlotte also skis, snowboards, mountain bikes, and kayaks, all in...
2021-11-2941 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealKristen Berkeley of Amplify Outdoors | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am so excited to talk with Kristen Berkeley of Amplify Outdoors.
Kristen Berkeley (she/her) is originally from Toronto and has been living in the Northwest Territories for nearly four years. Kristen is a former journalist that enjoys writing about social issues and outdoor lifestyles. When she's not cooking delicious meals, Kristen can be found exploring the Northwest Territories and promoting diversity in outdoor spaces with her organization Amplify Outdoors.
Follow Kristen's adventures @Travel_Adventurehers & her goal to diversify the outdoors @AmplifyOutdoors
Check out Amplify Outdoors at https://www.amplify-outdoors...
2021-11-1545 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealTrailkeepers of Oregon | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am so excited to talk with Ginny and Josh of Trail Keepers of Oregon.
Almost all of today’s hiking trails were built more than 80 years ago.Almost all of them are currently maintained by volunteers. Explosive trail use and a lack of funding for trail maintenance is a real threat to our favorite trails. In 2007, a group of concerned hikers founded Trailkeepers of Oregon. Our work takes the form of trail maintenance projects and advocacy work to restore proper funding to a resource so beneficial and beloved by Oregonians. Backed by the generosity of hundreds of don...
2021-11-0849 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealKamrin Peterson: Hiker, Backpacker and Outdoor AdvocateThis week I am so excited to talk with hiker, backpacker and advocate Kamrin Peterson.
Kamrin is a PNW raised gal who prioritizes any opportunity to get outside. You can often find her reading in a fire lookout, backpacking into an alpine lake, or snowboarding down a mountain. Her passion is fueled by helping other women feel safe and prepared in the outdoors.
Follow Kamrin on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/kamrinkaylee/
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
CNOC Outdoors making our adventures the best possible, simple, enjoyable, fulfilling and sustainable. Go...
2021-11-0153 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealBronwyn Preece, PhD: Poet, Author, Artist, Advocate, & Avid HikerThis week I am so excited to talk with poet, author, artist, advocate, & avid hiker Bronwyn Preece, PhD
Bronwyn is a writer who documents her unfurling understandings on, and of, the trail through poetic narratives — weaving in ethical considerations, humorous realities, soundbites and historical anecdotes. She is also, recovering from a leg-shattering injury which has left her with an actutely-angled knee. Though significantly slowed — instrumental to her recovery — has been a return to the trail.
Follow Bronwyn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poetichiker
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
CNOC Outdoors making...
2021-10-2450 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAlex Schnee: Writer, Travel Blogger, & HikerThis week I am so excited to talk with writer, travel blogger, and hiker Alex Schnee.
Alex is a professional writer and travel blogger. Her work has been featured in USA Today, the Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, Fodor’s, and many more. Montana born-and-raised, she now runs her own international travel blog, Alex n the Map, where she shares her passions of cooking, photography, and traveling as a digital nomad, as well as encouraging conservation and respect for natural spaces. She has been to over 50 countries and has worked with brands such as National Geographic, Contiki, Gutsy Wo...
2021-10-1545 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealDr. Megan Banker: Climber, Mountaineer, Chiropractor, & AdvocateThis week I am so excited to talk with rock climber, mountaineer, chiropractor, & advocate Dr. Megan Banker.
Dr. Megan Banker is rock climber and mountaineer living in Portland, OR. At her day job, she is a Health At Every Size chiropractor that owns and operates her wellness clinic. She stands for diversity, equity and inclusion in both the outdoor and healthcare industries and aims to bring awareness to inequities in these areas. She is one of the newest ambassadors for Outdoor Research and was on the advisory board for the creation of their new plus and extended size gear that...
2021-10-081h 03
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAsk Andy Anything | The Hiker PodcastThis week I (Andy) take some time and answer your questions from Instagram!
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
CNOC Outdoors making our adventures the best possible, simple, enjoyable, fulfilling and sustainable. Go to https://cnocoutdoors.com and be sure to use coupon code 'Hiker Podcast' for 10% off trekking poles. Or is this link: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=cl&merchant_id=014f2c2f-7334-473e-95aa-fd74821c174c&website_id=1d7833e9-53d7-4a11-beec-6bd6ff4b65c4&url=https%3A%2F%2Fcnocoutdoors.com%2F
CS Instant Coffee makers of environmentally sustainable and gr...
2021-10-011h 05
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealTasheon Chillous: Personal Trainer, Coach, & Hiker | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am so excited to talk with Fat/Plus Size Personal Trainer, Coach, Hiker and Outdoor Enthusiast Tasheon Chillous!
Tasheon Chillous (she/her) is a Fat/Plus Size Personal Trainer, Coach and Outdoor Enthusiast located in Western Washington. She believes that all bodies are capable and worthy of finding movement that brings them joy and supports them in all their big and small adventures. She is the creator of BOPOMO, a series designed for fat and plus size folks looking for community and support in moving their body. BOPOMO is designed to be safe, affirming...
2021-09-2547 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealDerick Lugo: Author, Speaker, Podcaster, and Hiker | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am so excited to talk with Hiker, Adventurer, Author, & Host of the new Unlikely Stories Podcast, Derick Lugo.
Derick Lugo had never hiked, camped or pitched a tent a day in his life. However, this Brooklyn-born, New York City urbanite hopped a train to Georgia, grabbed a taxi to the beginning of the Appalachian Trail, and then he did as he has always done — put one foot in front of the other and never looked back.
After thru-hiking for 2,192 miles and several thousand more on various different trails, he now feels invincible and plans to cross the Sa...
2021-09-1759 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAndrea Kelly: Outdoor Enthusiast & Size Inclusion Advocate | The Hiker PodcastThis week I am so excited to talk with Andrea Kelly. Andrea Kelly is an outdoor enthusiast, size inclusion advocate, public speaker, and curvy model. She has been with Columbia Sportswear for over 10 years and now serves as the Senior Merchandiser for the brand’s Extended Sizing division. She’s spent the last half of her 20-year career in the Outdoor Apparel industry championing size inclusivity, with the intention of changing the industry from the inside out.
Follow Andrea on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makeplusequal/
Follow Columbia Sportswear on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colum...
2021-09-1059 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealGail Muller: HIKER, ADVENTURER, EDUCATOR & AUTHOR | The Hiker Podcast S3E6This week I am so excited to talk with HIKER, ADVENTURER, EDUCATOR & AUTHOR Gail Muller!
Gail Muller is an adventurer, hiker, author, and educator. For fifteen years she struggled with muscular-skeletal issues and the chronic pain that would arise from them. In 2019, after years searching for cures for her physical and mental health, she realized it was time for a profound change. She knows now she’s not able to live a regular life and is embracing this new understanding of herself: adventuring, hiking, writing and inspiring others to do the same. She lives, hikes and swims in...
2021-09-0250 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealDrew Hulsey: Climber & Advocate | The Hiker Podcast S3E5This week I am so excited to talk with a climber… that’s right, I have Cimber and outdoor advocate Drew Hulsey on the show!
Drew is a climber and plus sized outdoor advocate from Tennessee who believes that climbing is for everybody and everyBODY! Drew’s goal is to let everyone know that climbing is an amazing sport that you should at least try it once.
Drew’s INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/drewclimbswalls/
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
CNOC Outdoors making our adventures the best possible, simple, enjoyable, fulfilling and susta...
2021-08-2741 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealElina "Tip Tap" Osbourne: Filmmaker and Hiker | The Hiker Podcast S3 E4This week on The Hiker Podcast Andy has another great conversation talk with filmmaker, YouTuber, PCT and Te Araroa thru-hiker Elina “Tip Tap” Osborne.
Most recently Elina completed the Te Araroa which spans the length of Elina’s home of the nation of New Zealand.
In 2019 “Tip Tap” also hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, the 2,650 mile (4270 kilometers) trail that runs from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington in the US, in 2019. Her short documentary film on her PCT hike, “It is the People”, was selected at this years New Zealand Mountain Film Festival.
Elina's Y...
2021-08-1758 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealRanger Allie: Hiker & Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument Ranger | The Hiker Podcast S3 E3This week Andy is excited to talk with Ranger Allie of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument outside of Ashland, Oregon.
After growing up miles away from the San Andreas fault in Southern California , Allie became fascinated by fault systems and mountains. She spent 5 years studying geology in Hawaii before taking her experience as a park ranger to pursue her dream job (at the time) working at the Monterey Bay aquarium as a tour guide. While living and working in Monterey, Allie was able to earn her Certified Interpretive Guide certification solidifying her love of informal education to the p...
2021-08-1247 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealBennett Rahn: Climber, Mountaineer, Activist | The Hiker Podcast S3 E2This week Andy is excited to talk with Bennett Rahn (she/her) from Seattle, WA (occupied Duwamish territory).
Bennett is a climber, mountaineer, activist, software engineer, teacher, plus size human, artist and a queer woman who is passionate about a lot of things and loves to work hard and play harder.
***Some content in the episode MAY not be appropriate for younger audiences***
Follow Bennett on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bennettrahn/
Be sure to listen to the end of the episode to find out how to win a year supply...
2021-08-051h 10
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealMiranda Webster of "Miranda in the Wild": Backpacker, Rock Climber, Van Dweller | The Hiker Podcast S3E1Season 3 Premiere!
This week Andy is excited to talk with Miranda Webster, know on YouTube as “Miranda in the Wild”
Be sure to listen to the end of the episode to find out how to win a year supply of coffee from our sponsor CS Instant coffee.
Miranda is a backpacker, rock climber, and occasional van dweller who left NYC to pursue life outdoors. In 2020, after ten years of working in the outdoor industry, she launched Miranda In The Wild on REI's YouTube channel. Miranda shares her knowledge and humor through content that is accessible, relatable, and designed to break down...
2021-07-2858 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealSeason 2 Finale of The Hiker PodcastAndy wraps up Season 2 of The Hiker Podcast. Season 3 coming to you July 27, 2021.
Follow Host Andy Neal on Instagram: www.instagram.com/andyfilmsandhikes
Email Andy andy@hikerpodcast.com
Go to www.hikerpodcast.com for all our social media accounts, email, and all the ways to listen to The Hiker Podcast!
Send Andy a Postcard from the trail!
The Hiker Podcast
1750 Delta Waters Road STE 102-406
Medford, OR 97504
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
CNOC Outdoors making our adventures the best possible, simple, e...
2021-07-0949 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealMonica and Ian of C.S. Instant Coffee | The Hiker Podcast S2E24This week I'm excited to talk with the co founders of C.S Instant Coffee, Monica & Ian.
Monica and Ian are the co-founders of CS Instant Coffee. CS was created by a love of simplicity, coffee, and being outside. Monica grew up in a small town in Ohio. She recently biked solo across the USA. Ian was born in Upstate New York and spent most of his youth outside in the great outdoors of New England.
Follow Host Andy Neal on Instagram: www.instagram.com/andyfilmsandhikes
Email Andy andy@hikerpodcast.com
Go to www.hikerpodcast.com for all our social media...
2021-06-2942 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealCory “Second Chance Hiker”: Hiker and YouTuber | The Hiker Podcast S2E23This week I'm excited to talk with Hiker and YouTuber Cory “Second Chance Hiker”.
Cory better known as Second Chance Hiker was 33 years old when a cardiologist told him he was close to having a heart attack in he next few years. With the support of his family Cory sold his house and decided to change his life by hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, staying on trail for 8 months and chronicling his journey on YouTube. Since the PCT Cory started hiking all over from Germany, Croatia, and Florida with no plans to stop.
Cory’s YouTub...
2021-06-2139 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAlina “Abstract” Drufovka: Artist & Hiker | The Hiker Podcast S2E22This week I'm excited to talk with artist and hiker Alina “Abstract” Drufovka!
Alina “Abstract” Drufovka is a Colombian-American painter and illustrator based out of Philadelphia, PA. She has hiked the Appalachian Trail (2015 & 2017), Israel National Trail (2018), and Pacific Crest Trail (2019). After 5,000+ miles of thru hiking, she now transforms all the nostalgia and beauty from her treks into surreal paintings back to the "trailverse."
Website: www.thrudesigns.com
IG: @abstract.hikes
Follow Abstract on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abstract.hikes
Follow Host Andy Neal on Instagram: www.insta...
2021-06-1142 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealJulia "Rocket" Sheehan: AZT Thru Hiker | The Hiker Podcast S2E21This week I'm excited to bring back Julia "Rocket" Sheehan, after completing her thru hike of the Arizona Trail.
Julia is a veteran thru-hiker who still feels like she has no idea what she is doing in life and trail. As a military veteran, nurse and outdoor adventure lover Julia has learned to take life one step at a time. After spending years taking care of others, Julie set out on a journey and trajectory that would have her life head down a path she had never dreamed of. Now she juggles half her life in the r...
2021-06-0541 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealBen Allan: Hiker, Mountain Biker, Climber & Skier | The Hiker Podcast S2E20This week I'm excited to bring you a conversation with my friend hiker, mountain biker, rock climber and skier Ben Allen.
Ben Allan is a hiker, mountain biker, rock climber and skier who currently lives in the Bay Area, working as a Ranger Aide for Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District. Ben was born in England and grew up in the Bay Area, and was exposed to a lot of classic hikes in both California and England by his family. In 2017 Ben moved to Ashland, Oregon to attend Southern Oregon University. Through SOU's Outdoor Program, Ben was introduced t...
2021-05-2840 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealJenny Bruso: Hiker, Advocate, & Founder of Unlikely Hikers | The Hiker Podcast S2E19This week I'm VERY VERY excited to bring you a conversation I had with Hiker, Advocate and Founder of Unlikely Hikers, Jenny Bruso!
Follow Jenny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennybruso/
For more about Jenny and Unlikely Hikers go to https://jennybruso.com/unlikelyhikers/
Follow Host Andy Neal on Instagram: www.instagram.com/andyfilmsandhikes
Email Andy andy@hikerpodcast.com
Go to www.hikerpodcast.com for all our social media accounts, email, and all the ways to listen to The Hiker Podcast!
We'd like to thank our s...
2021-05-211h 03
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealSarah Settimo: Hiker and Yoga Instructor | The Hiker Podcast S2E18This week Andy is excited to talk to hiker and yoga instructor Sarah Settimo.
Sarah Settimo grew up and currently lives in Ashland, Oregon where her love of the outdoors began. With Ashland's trail network in her backyard, Sarah grew up exploring the southern Oregon forests and cultivating a bond with the natural world. In 2015, Sarah's father gifted her a camera and her passion for photography began. In college, Sarah spent her weekends hiking across Oregon to photograph the beauty that surrounded her. Over time, this led her to hike further and venture deeper into the forests of Oregon. Since...
2021-05-1347 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAsk Andy Anything | The Hiker Podcast S2E17This week Host Andy Neal takes your questions from Social media. Big thanks to everyone who submitted a question and sorry if I was unable to get to yours. :(
Follow Host Andy Neal on Instagram: www.instagram.com/andyfilmsandhikes
Email Andy andy@hikerpodcast.com
Go to www.hikerpodcast.com for all our social media accounts, email, and all the ways to listen to The Hiker Podcast!
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
- CNOC Outdoors making our adventures the best possible, simple, enjoyable, fulfilling and sustainable. Go to https://c...
2021-04-3000 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAshley Manning: Plus-size Outdoor Professional & Adventurer | The Hiker Podcast S2E16This week I'm excited to bring you a conversation I had with Plus-size outdoor professional and adventurer Ashley Manning. We have an amazing conversation talking about our experiences as plus-sized outdoors people regarding social media, stigmas, gear, how other hikers like Jenny Bruso of Unlikely Hikers have encouraged us, and how much we appreciate companies like Columbia that make clothes for plus sized adventurers! Thank you so much Ashley for coming on the show and having this conversation with me. This was one of my favorite thus far and I am so excited to share it with you all!
2021-04-2354 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealJohn Sprankel of The Oahu Coastline Trail | The Hiker Podcast S2E15This week I'm excited to bring you all a conversation I had with John Sprankel of The Oahu Coastline Trail. Big thank you to John for being so patient on getting this episode out!
John Sprankel is an Eagle Scout and US Army veteran that graduated from Georgia Southern Universitywith a bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, where he met and married his wife, Tori. Since then, their careers lead them to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and later to Honolulu, Hawaii, in order to pursue the opportunity to ive in paradise, while also demonstrating to their daughter, Rowan, the v...
2021-04-1641 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealFranziska Weinheimer of Hike Oregon | The Hiker Podcast S2E14This week Andy talks with Hiker, Author, YouTuber and founder of Hike Oregon Franziska Weinheimer.
Franziska Weinheimer is a 25+ year resident of Oregon and grew up enjoying the outdoors. In her mid-twenties she started hiking every week and grew increasingly frustrated with the lack of reliable information about the hiking trails that was available online. So she decided to work her way through the hiking guidebooks she owned and after every hike documented the hike online with detailed photos, trail descriptions, accurate mileage and elevation gain and made her own fun maps that point out special things to look out...
2021-04-0937 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealJustice Wise: Hiker, Backpacker, Advocate | The Hiker Podcast S2E13This week Andy talks with hiker and backpacker Justice Wise.
Justice Wise is a day hiker and a backpacker who is returning to it after a short hiatus which caused her to miss it greatly. She was a Girl Scout as well as a YMCA Camp Counselor in Northern New Mexico. She grew up exploring the mountains of New Mexico and this is where she feels the most at home. She feels that the mountains ground her and finds healing as she moves through trails as she explores with her dog, Rio. She is an advocate for...
2021-04-0141 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealTracy from BearVault | The Hiker Podcast S2E12On the 2nd episode this week, Andy talks with Tracy, owner of BearVault.
Thank you to BearVault for sponsoring this weeks episode.
Tracy is the owner of BearVault, manufacturer of bear resistant food canisters for backpackers and adventurers. An experienced backpacker, Tracy idolizes a world in which wilderness stays truly wild, and considerate adventurers will have the privilege of being awed by nature, now and forever. Tracy stays busy working on virtually every aspect of the business, and in her spare time she enjoys hiking and skiing. Before focusing on bears, Tracy worked for startups and initiatives in wind, solar...
2021-03-2636 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealTommy "Twerk" Corey: Photographer, Filmmaker and Thru Hiker | The Hiker Podcast S2E11This Week Andy Talks with photographer, filmmaker and hiker Tommy Corey.
Tommy Corey, otherwise known as “Twerk” is a 33-year-old thru-hiker and outdoor photographer from Bend, Oregon. In 2018, while thru hiking the Pacific Crest Trail he created an editorial photo series called “Hiker Trash Vogue”. Currently, he has created a film project called “Twerk’s Visual Podcast” where he explores the emotionally intimate stories of those that inhabit the outdoor community.
Follow Tommy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twerkinthedirt/
Check out Tommy's work on his website: https://www.tommycorey.com
***Some content in...
2021-03-2444 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealKayla Bold: Writer, Artist, and Thru Hiker | The Hiker Podcast S2E10This Week Andy Talks with AT and LST Thru Hiker Kayla Bold!
Kayla Bold is an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker and Lone Star Hiking Trail thru-hiker. She lives in her RV full time in Central Texas and plans to start traveling in a few years. In her free time, she enjoys writing and painting.She's a strong advocate for mental health and is open about her own struggles. She has plans to complete the Long Trail this year and many more next year.
Follow Kayla on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayla.bold/
We'd l...
2021-03-1743 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealChristine Reed: Author and Hiker | The Hiker Podcast S2E9This week Andy is excited to talk with hiker and author of ALONE IN WONDERLAND, Christine Reed !
Christine discovered long distance backpacking while surfing the internet at work. She decided that day to attempt to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. One adventure led to another and a few years later she set out on the Wonderland Trail in Mt Rainier National Park.
Her Rugged Outdoors Woman persona started as a joke, a nod to the outdoor adventurer that she wished to be. But in the years since, she has come into her own as a backpacker, roc...
2021-03-1051 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealMandy Bland: Purple Rain Adventure Skirts | The Hiker Podcast S2E8This week Andy is excited to talk with hiker and owner of Purple Rain Adventure Skirts, Mandy Bland.
Purple Rain Adventure Skirts was founded by Mandy ‘Purple Rain’ Bland and first launched on Etsy in March 2014. During a 2012 thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail Mandy was inspired to try hiking in a skirt. Unable to find what she wanted, she went about designing her own. Hacking up an old pair of convertible hiking pants, adding a comfortable waistband and some pockets, Mandy then headed back out on trail testing the design on the PCT that following summer. Thus the Purp...
2021-03-0339 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealSami Wolniakowski: Environmental Educator | The Hiker Podcast S2E7This week Andy is excited to talk with hiker, mountaineer, skier, mountain biker and environmental educator Sami Wolniakowski.
Sami Wolniakowski is a recent graduate of the Master of Science in Environmental Education at Southern Oregon University. Before attending the program, she was a teacher and environmental educator for 4 years. She believes in utilizing the outdoors as her classroom and making it accessible for all students. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, mountaineering, skiing, paddle boarding, and mountain biking.
Follow Sami on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/samiski21/
We'd like t...
2021-02-1735 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealDarwin Rakestraw: Filmmaker & Hiker | The Hiker Podcast S2E6This week Andy talks with filmmaker and hiker Darwin Rakestraw. They have a great conversation about being a filmmaker and a hiker, creativity, social media and the hiking community, and what he is doing to encourage everyone to protect public lands.
Go to www.theoutdoorevolution.com to see everything Darwin is doing.
"Through the Great Southwest", Darwin's documentary film about the Arizona Trail: https://theoutdoorevolution.com/through-the-great-southwest
Darwin’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC18exdGWh7piVWisrnDXiZg
Support Darwin on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/darwinonthetrail
Darwin’s Blog: https://darwinonthetrail.com
We'd like to thank our sponsors:
CNOC O...
2021-02-0958 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealGilad & Mika Nachmani Founders of CNOC Outdoors | The Hiker Podcast S2E5This week on The Hiker Podcast Andy talks with the founders of CNOC Outdoors (pronounced K'nock, who are also a sponsors of the Hiker Podcast) Gilad and Mika Nachmani.
Gilad Nachmani founded CNOC Outdoors in 2016 upon moving to Portland, OR with his wife, Mika and two small children. An avid outdoorsman and outdoor retail industry professional of over 17 years, Gilad used, tested, broke, tinkered and played with gear in both personal and professional capacities. Throughout this time, he was developing new product ideas and improvements to items already in the market. Together, Gilad and his wife Mika scr...
2021-02-031h 07
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealMaggie Slepian | The Hiker Podcast S2E4On this weeks episode Andy talks with Hiker and Writer Maggie Slepian about her experience on the trail, social media, and the outdoor industry.
Maggie Slepian is an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, a full-time writer, and the co-founder of BackpackingRoutes.com. She lives in Bozeman, Montana, and is loosely putting together a plan for four thru-hikes in 2021... but we all know plans are very loose right now.
Get in touch at MaggieSlepian.com.
Follow Maggie on IG: https://www.instagram.com/maggie_slepian
We'd like to thank our sponsor CS Instant Coffee ma...
2021-01-2759 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealBecca “Little Skittle” Bergstrom | The Hiker Podcast S2E3On this weeks episode Andy talks with Hiker and Vlogger Becca “Little Skittle” Bergstrom about her hike of the PCT, canceling hikes because of covid, vulnerability, and her YouTube channel.
Becca Bergstrom had a single-night's experience of backpacking before she embarked on her solo thru-hike of the 2,650-mile-long Pacific Crest Trail in 2019. In the span of 135 days, she walked from Campo to Manning Park carrying everything she needed to make the long journey, including a newfound sense of happiness, confidence and self-worth. She earned her trail name Little Skittle very early on, powered through the Sierra during one...
2021-01-2051 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealJulia "Rocket" Sheehan: Hiker & Vlogger | The Hiker Podcast S2E2On this weeks episode Andy talks with Hiker and Vlogger Julia "Rocket" Sheehan.
After thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail in 2019, Julia Sheehan, aka Rocket has never looked back. Julia is a air force veteran, registered emergency medicine nurse and an avid backpacker. She vlogs, writes and hopes to inspire personal connection in the hiking community.
Follow Rocket on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliasheehan/?hl=en
Subscriber to Julia "Rocket" Sheehan's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/jls935
We'd like to thank our sponsor CS Instant Coffee makers of environmentally sustainable and great tasting instant coffee for the trail. Use our af...
2021-01-1338 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealDarrah Blackwater: Advocate and Hiker | The Hiker Podcast S2E1We are opening up Season 2 with an amazing conversation with advocate and hiker Darrah Blackwater! We talk about her story, hiking on Indigenous Lands, spectrum sovereignty and her work as an advocate.
Darrah Blackwater is from Farmington, NM and is a citizen of the Navajo Nation. She is a recent graduate of the University of Arizona, where she earned her law degree studying Indigenous law and telecommunications law. She spent a year of law school working on tribal issues in Washington D.C. for the Assistant Secretary of Indian Affairs, the Inspector General of the Department of In...
2021-01-0545 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealSeason 1 Finale Q & A | The Hiker Podcast Episode 22For the final episode of 2020 and of Season1 Andy reflects on the last 21 episodes and the last year of hiking while answering your questions. Season 2 begins Monday January 4, 2021.
Each week new hiker Andy Neal, takes you along on the trail, reviewing gear, exploring hiking trends and most importantly talking with voices in the outdoor and hiking community finding stories of how hiking has inspired them to grow, create, and better the world and environment around them. A show for those first starting out on the trail and for experienced thru-hikers!
Email Andy andy@hikerpodcast.com
2020-12-2144 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealWriter, Redliner, & Hiker Rebecca “Socked In” Sperry | The Hiker Podcast Episode 21This week, Andy is talking with Writer, Redliner, & Hiker Rebecca “Socked In” Sperry.
Rebecca "Socked In" Sperry is an avid hiker based out of New Hampshire. She is a big proponent for encouraging women to get outdoors, with or without someone else, and has done hundreds of hikes solo herself. After finishing the NH48 4000'ers in 2018, she went on to hike the NE67 4000'ers in thirty-six days. In 2019 she focused her attention on backpacking and has done a small handful of backpacking trips including the Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway in New Hampshire. In 2020, she began an attempt at redlining all...
2020-12-0748 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealDanni Krumins: Blogger, Gymnast, & Hiker | The Hiker Podcast Episode 20This week, Andy is very excited to talk with Blogger and Hiker, Danni Krumins
Danni has been day hiking in the Canadian Rockies since moving to Alberta in 2018. She is a former college athlete, a CrossFit Level 1 certified coach, and a gymnastics coach. Danni has created Summiting Strong to combine her passion of hiking with strength and conditioning as a way to inspire health both mentally and physically. She has goals of completing her first thru hike in the next couple of years.
Check out Summiting Strong at: https://www.summitingstrong.com
Follow S...
2020-12-0337 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealLuke Pearsall: Creative Professional & Hiker| The Hiker Podcast Episode 19This week, Andy is very excited to talk with Creative Professional and Hiker, Luke Pearsall.
Luke Pearsall is a graduate of the Rochester Institute of Technology’s School of Photographic Arts and Sciences. His career in media has spanned over 19 years including work on large scale Television and Film Productions in Los Angeles as well as Print Advertising Photography work with clients including Samsung Mobile USA and Bridgestone Tires among others.
In 2006, Luke took a hiatus from film to work as an Adventure Guide in South America where his love for the outdoors grew in to...
2020-11-2350 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealKatie "Oats" Houston: Writer & Hiker | The Hiker Podcast Episode 18This week Andy talks with writer and hiker Katie "Oats" Houston about gear, getting injured on trail, and how hiking has changed her life!
Katie got bit by the thru-hiking bug in 2019 on her trek of the AT. After meeting her partner 1,100 miles into her journey, she now lives in Texas with her partner and two pups and is currently converting a school bus into a tiny home. She has also thru-hiked the Colorado Trail and has goals including completing the Great Western Loop in 2022 and hiking 10,000 miles by 25.
Follow Katie on IG: www.instagram.com/mosspetal
Follow Katie On Fa...
2020-11-1851 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealAria Zoner: Hiker, Health Counselor, Nutrition Coach, Trailblazer | The Hiker Podcast Episode 17This week Andy talks with Hiker, Health Counselor, Nutrition Coach, & Trailblazer Aria Zoner.
Aria Zoner is a dually-certified Health Counselor & Nutrition Coach, however, his goal in attaining these certifications wasn't to run a practice with clients, it was to sustain his own health & wellbeing during long-distance adventures.
Zoner has completed the Pacific Crest, Arizona, Colorado, and many other long-distance trails and has even created a few original routes which he's published guidebooks for. The Hot Springs Trail and The Siskiyou Peaks Trail are both National Trail proposals, meaning they were published to be used as templates to create new trails...
2020-11-111h 07
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealHeather Diaz: Hiker, Runner, & Outdoor Educator | The Hiker Podcast Episode 16This week Andy is very excited to talk with Hiker, Runner, & Outdoor Educator Heather Diaz!
Heather Diaz is a former experienced long-distance runner and first-generation hiker from the suburbs of Houston, Texas. She moved around Texas for her bachelor’s and graduate degrees. Life took her to San Francisco in 2012 to chase her career, and she met her partner along the way. He asked her to go on a hike for their first date, which led to thru-hiking nearly 2300 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail two years later (2017). What a loaded question! The rest is history.
...
2020-10-3049 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealDylan Harris: Hiker, Photographer, Filmmaker | The Hiker Podcast Episode 15This week Andy is excited to talk to filmmaker, hiker, photographer and director of the forthcoming documentary chronicling the “Fastest Know Time” attempt of the Colorado Trail in Summer of 2020 by prior Hiker Podcast guest Jeff “Legend” Garmire, Dylan Harris.
Dylan Harris is a Freelance Photographer, Film-maker, long-distance backpacker/bikepacker and explorer who lives in Phoenix, AZ. Traveling much of the year around the American Southwest, Harris works to capture human interaction with outdoor spaces, while promoting the usage and protection of local trail systems. For more from Dylan go to https://dylharris.com.
Also CONGRATS...
2020-10-2348 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealRachel Meltzer: Thru Hiker, Writer, and Podcaster | The Hiker Podcast Episode 14On this weeks Episode of The Hiker Podcast I have a conversation with AT Thru Hiker, writer and Podcaster Rachel Meltzer.
Rachel thruhiked the Appalachian Trail in 2018. She now works as a freelance writer in the tech education industry empowering others to change their lives with a new career. She’s also a climber, mental health advocate, and cat lover. You can find her on Instagram @meltzerseltzer or at trailnamehere.com.
Go to https://sawyer.com for where to buy all of their amazing products that help keep us safe on the trail!
Leave a voice message for Andy: https://an...
2020-10-1657 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealOregon Coast Trail: A Conversation with OCT FKT holder Josh Pulattie | The Hiker Podcast Episode 13On this weeks Episode of The Hiker Podcast we talk with the Fastest Know Time(FKT) holder for the Oregon Coast Trail Josh Pulattie.
Josh Pulattie is a public school teacher, football coach, and hiker. He currently holds the Sefl-Supported FKT (Fastest Known Time) on the Oregon Coast Trail. He got his start backpacking long sections of the Pacific Crest Trail in the summers before completing the OCT FKT in the summer of 2020, which presented unique challenges during the Covid-19 pandemic. Josh is married to Abi and credits her support and patience as one of the biggest reasons he is abl...
2020-10-0852 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealRachael "Rabbit" DeLano: Triple Crown Hiker | The Hiker Podcast Episode 12On this weeks episode of the Hiker Podcast we talk with Yoga instructor,Triple Crown Hiker and rabbit enthusiast Rachael “Rabbit” DeLano.
Rachael aka “Rabbit” is a long-distance hiker and outdoor enthusiast residing in Colorado. She left behind a career in corporate America to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail in 2016, and this journey ignited her passion for backpacking. After completing the Appalachian Trail she thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in 2017 and the Continental Divide trail in 2018 completing the triple crown of hiking. Then in 2019, she went on to section hike portions of the AT, PCT, and CDT and pursued hiking abroad in Engla...
2020-10-011h 05
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealFastest Known Tiger: A Conversation with Jeff "Legend" Garmire | The Hiker Podcast Episode 11On this weeks episode of the Hiker Podcast we talk with new Colorado Trail FKT holder Jeff “Legend” Garmire.
Jeff has completed the Calendar Year Triple Crown (AT, PCT, CDT in one year), climbed all the Colorado 14ers, The Great Western Loop, Nolans 14 in 59 hours, and broke the Arizona Trail self-supported FKT (Fastest Known Time), Pinhoti Trail self-supported FKT, Long Trail Unsupported FKT, and the Colorado Trail Unsupported FKT among 9 other records.
You can go to https://freeoutside.com/ to find out where to buy his book or where to follow him on the various social media networks.
Also this week...
2020-09-2359 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealOregon Wildfires: A Conversation w/ Kristen Babbs of the Oregon Department of Forestry's "Keep Oregon Green" Program | The Hiker Podcast Episode 11In light of the tragic wildfires that have been plaguing Oregon and the Western United States this week, Andy tells you what’s been happening with the tragic wildfires in Southern Oregon that have devastated much of the Rogue Valley, especially the towns Phoenix and Talent Oregon. Andy has a conversation with the president of the the Oregon Department of Forestry’s ”Keep Oregon Green” program Kristen Babbs.
Oregon Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster- orvoad.org
Go to www.hikerpodcast.com to give directly to the Phoenix-Talent Families Fire Relief Fund administered by Phoenix-Talent Schools. It is estimated that approximately 50% of the f...
2020-09-1551 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealBARNEY "SCOUT" MANN: Trail Angel, Hiker, & Author | The Hiker Podcast Episode 9This week on The Hiker Podcast Andy talks about his upcoming and first ever backpacking trip along the PCT AND we are excited to talk with legendary “trail angel”, author, and hiker Barney “Scout” Mann.
We talk about his journey as a trail angel and hiker along with his new book “Journey’s North: The Pacific Crest Trail”
Also this week we have our second “Sawyer Segment” and talk with “The Prodigy” about Lyme disease and what Sawyer Products is doing to raise awarness and help prevent Lyme disease and tick born illness.
This weeks episode is brought to you by Sawyer Products, make...
2020-09-0255 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealHiker and Author Jim Falkenstein | The Hiker Podcast Episode 8This week on The Hiker Podcast we talk with day hiker, trail runner and author of the trail book “Ashland Trails”, Jim Faleknstein.
Jim Falkenstein self-published his hyper-local trail guide AshlandTrails.com – The Book in 2019. Jim wrote the book based on his website www.AshlandTrails.com when he realized that some people couldn’t always figure out the internet and still liked purchasing books. He started building his website in 2015 when he realized that Los Angeles was noisy and crowded and moved to Ashland, Oregon.
Jim had already created the hiking website www.TrailDummies.com in Los Angeles with help from his...
2020-08-2651 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealThru Hikers Tyler “The Prodigy” Lau & Andrew “Peanut” Glenn | The Hiker Podcast Episode 7On this weeks episode of The Hiker Podcast we are excited to talk with Hikers Tyler “The Prodigy” Lau and Andrew “Peanut” Glenn. Not only are they amazing hikers but they work for Sawyer Products, the sponsor of this episode. We spend our time talking about their story and how hiking has changed them and they in turn are making an impact on the world around them.
This weeks episode is brought to you by Sawyer Products, makers of the Sawyer Squeeze water filter.
Go to https://sawyer.com for where to buy all of their amazing products that help keep us sa...
2020-08-191h 04
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealRenee "She-Ra" Patrick of the Oregon Desert Trail | The Hiker Podcast Episode 6The week we are excited to talk with Renee "She-Ra" Patrick. Renee measures time by the miles she hikes. This long-distance backpacker has wracked up over 11,000 miles hiked on 12 different trails around the world including the triple crown trails: Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail. To stay fit, she packrafts, skis, walks, bikes, enjoys a daily yoga practice, and sometimes drinks a beer (or two). Renee is a professional hiker whose current job is to establish the 750-mile Oregon Desert Trail through south-eastern Oregon.
Follow Renee "She-Ra" Patrick on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearehikertrash/
Find out more...
2020-08-121h 03
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealPCT THRU HIKER Jennifer “Close Call” McDaniel | The Hiker Podcast Episode 5This week we have an amazing conversation with PCT THRU HIKER
Jennifer “Close Call” McDaniel. We have an amazing conversation about what it means to be a hiker, expectations on the trail, when you have to get off the trails, how the trail provides and how she got her trail name.
Follow “Close Call" on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/dirtyskirt/
Leave a voice message for Andy: https://anchor.fm/hikerpodcast
Go to www.hikerpodcast.com for all our social media accounts, email, and all the ways to listen to The Hiker Podcast
Follow Host Andy Neal on Instagram: @andyfilmsandhikes
Each w...
2020-08-0450 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealJessica Mills: Triple Crown Thru Hiker and YouTuber | The Hiker Podcast Episode 5On this weeks episode of The Hiker Podcast we are joined by Youtuber and Triple Crown Thru Hiker Jessica Mills. Not only do we talk about hiking the Appalachian Trail (AT), The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and the Continental Divide Trail (CDT), we discuss what her journey from engineer to full time hiker and what it means to embrace the uncomfortable!
Leave a voice message for Andy: https://anchor.fm/hikerpodcast
Go to www.hikerpodcast.com for all our social media accounts, email, and all the ways to listen to The Hiker Podcast
Follow Host Andy Neal on Instagram: @andyfilmsandhikes
...
2020-07-2854 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealMichael "Einstein" Gelfeld: Full Time Distance Hiker | The Hiker Podcast Episode 4This week on Episode 4 of The Hiker Podcast we talk with Michael "Einstein" Gelfeld. "Einstein" is a semi-nomadic, somewhat full-time long distance hiker. He has hiked over 8,000 miles on various trails since 2016 and also completed two cross-country bicycle tours. He is originally from Maryland and currently lives in Flagstaff, AZ.
Follow "Einstein" on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youth.retired
Read "Einstein's" Blog: https://www.unpublishedeinsteinthoughts.com
Leave a voice message for Andy: https://anchor.fm/hikerpodcast
Go to www.hikerpodcast.com for all our social media accounts, email, and all the ways to listen to The Hiker Podcast
Each we...
2020-07-2146 min
Andy Films and Hikes with Andy NealHow Hiking Changed Me | The Hiker Podcast Episode 1Welcome to the first ever episode of The Hiker Podcast. This week Host Andy Neal tells you his story of how he got into hiking and how hiking helped changed him during an existential crisis and helped heal his mind and heart.
Each week new hiker Andy Neal, takes you along on the trail, reviewing gear, exploring hiking trends and most importantly talking with voices in the outdoor and hiking community finding stories of how hiking has inspired them to grow, create, and better the world and environment around them. A show for those first starting out on the trail...
2020-07-0141 min