34: Tommy Corey: Capturing the spirit of Diversity

02/18/25 • 55 min

In this episode, Justin and Patrick sit down with outdoor photographer and storyteller Tommy Corey to discuss his journey in capturing diverse representation in the outdoors. Tommy shares the inspiration behind his new book, All Humans Outside, which features stories of people from all walks of life and their unique connections to nature. From his early influences (including Oprah!) to his adventures hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, Tommy reveals how curiosity, empathy, and storytelling drive his work.

The conversation also touches on the importance of belonging in the LGBTQ+ community, challenging stereotypes about queer people in the outdoors, and how we can all take small steps to connect with nature—whether it’s climbing a mountain or simply sitting on a park bench.

Where to Get Tommy’s Book:

All Humans Outside is available for pre-order now and will be released on May 1st, 2024.
Order at Barnes & Noble or through Mountaineers Books.
Skip Amazon if you can—support independent bookstores!

Follow Tommy Corey:

Website: TommyCorey.com
Instagram: @twerkinthedirt

Stay Connected with LGBTQ Outdoors:

Website: LGBTQOutdoors.com
Instagram: @lgbtqoutdoors
Join a local chapter, sign up for adventure trips, and be part of the community!

Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society.

To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

Where to Get Tommy’s Book:

All Humans Outside is available for pre-order now and will be released on May 1st, 2024.
Order at Barnes & Noble or through Mountaineers Books.
Skip Amazon if you can—support independent bookstores!

Follow Tommy Corey:

Website: TommyCorey.com
Instagram: @twerkinthedirt

Stay Connected with LGBTQ Outdoors:

Website: LGBTQOutdoors.com
Instagram: @lgbtqoutdoors
Join a local chapter, sign up for adventure trips, and be part of the community!

Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society.

To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

Previous Episode

33: Loren Payne: Exploring Oregon’s Outdoors

In this episode of the LGBT+ Outdoors Podcast, Patrick and Justin sit down with Loren, one of our incredible ambassadors from Oregon, to dive into the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the importance of building safe, welcoming outdoor spaces for the queer community.

Loren shares their journey from Michigan to Oregon, their love for trees (and an exciting new career centered around them!), and their passion for getting more LGBTQ+ folks outside. We also talk about the unique landscapes of Oregon, from the high desert to the stunning Columbia River Gorge, and the realities of navigating outdoor spaces as a queer and trans person.

Other topics covered in this episode:
- The growing impact of the LGBT+ Outdoors Ambassador Program
- Hidden gems and must-visit spots in Oregon
- Embracing rainy hikes and the best gear for wet weather
- Why showing up in outdoor spaces is an act of resistance
- Upcoming events, including a wildflower hike in March!

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting to explore the outdoors, this conversation is full of inspiration, practical advice, and a reminder that nature is for everyone.

👉 Connect with Loren: @loooren_payne
👉 Join the facebook: facebook.com/LGBTQOutdoors19
👉 Learn more about upcoming events: Lgbtqoutdoors.com

🎧 Tune in now and, as always, get out there!

Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society.

To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

Next Episode

35: Adventure Awaits: Hear From Our 2025 Trip Leaders!

Get ready for an episode packed with adventure, laughs, and all the details on our incredible LGBTQ Outdoors trips for 2025! Hosts Justin Yoder and Patrick Thompson are joined by trip leaders and special guests to break down what makes each adventure unique—whether you’re dreaming of hiking through the Grand Canyon, packrafting in Alaska, or casting a line in Broken Bow.

We also dive into LGBTQ Outdoorfest, which is shaping up to be our biggest and best yet! With record-breaking early registrations, it’s clear that people are eager to connect, celebrate, and explore together. If you haven’t signed up yet, now’s the time—spots are filling up fast!

But that’s just the beginning. This episode gives you the inside scoop on each adventure trip, including what to expect, who these trips are best suited for, and why you won’t want to miss out. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just starting your journey, there’s something here for you.

If you’ve been looking for the perfect way to get outside, challenge yourself, and meet like-minded adventurers, this is your sign to take the leap!

Upcoming LGBTQ Outdoors Adventure Trips for 2025:

Grand Canyon – Led by Oded Wilson & Sam Troi, this trip explores one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Hike, learn, and experience the magic of the canyon.

Broken Bow Fly Fishing – Josh McNabb & Justin Yoder leads this relaxing, skill-building trip in the beautiful waters of Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Beginners and seasoned anglers welcome!

Alaska Packrafting & Hiking – This trip is already full (waitlist available!), but it’s an unforgettable adventure with options for packrafting or hiking in the rugged Alaskan wilderness.

Glacier National Park – Led by Justin Yoder & Cherie Bélanger, this trip combines hiking and outdoor education with some of the most stunning scenery in the U.S.

Great Smoky Mountains – Brad Ryan & Oded Wilson guide this adventure-packed trip featuring hiking, rafting, zip-lining, and more in America’s most-visited national park.

Each of these trips is designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and supportive—so whether you're looking for a hardcore challenge or a chill nature escape, we've got something for you.

Ready to join? Head to lgbtqoutdoors.com to learn more and sign up before spots are gone! And don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more stories, trip highlights, and community spotlights.

Adventure is calling—who’s in?

Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society.

To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.