Solo (But Not Quite Alone)

Your stories of spending time solo in the outdoors. Including a bikepacker, a so-called fat hiker, an aspiring astronaut, an extrovert, two med students, and a backcountry paddler, in short - you and me.

It's been almost 2 years since we last asked you about how you adventure solo in Episode 8 of She Explores, Alone on the Trail. Gale asked for new submissions and she received more than she could squeeze into this episode, which is a great thing! It means you're getting out there.

Please keep in mind when you listen - there are inherent risks to recreating in the backcountry, whether you're with a friend or by yourself. It's always a good idea to take inventory of your limits.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• How solo time in nature opens up your headspace
• Why the listeners who submitted take time for themselves solo
• How Beth Bradley and Jessie Johnson used solo hiking to help quiet the negative body talk that went on in their heads
• Why getting outside solo isn't always a choice
• The ways in which you might be physically solo, but not quite alone while you're out there
• Why an extrovert says it's ok to find other people to adventure with
• The value of a long thru hike
• How going it solo can be empowering
• Some motivation to take the next step

Women featured in this episode:

• Sunny Stroeer: Website, Outside Online Article, Alpinist Article
• Jodi Spangler: Instagram
• Jessie Johnson: Instagram
• Beth Bradley: Watch her full story here; Instagram
• Francesca Turauskis: SeizeYourAdventure.com
• Savannah Simmons-Grover: Blog
• Natalie Izzo: Instagram
• Kathi Kamleitner: Blog
• Kristine Turner
• Emily Sehloff: Instagram
• Ashley Franklin
• Sian Proctor: Facebook and Kickstarter
• Julie Hotz: Instagram and Portfolio

Hosted by Gale Straub

Sponsors & Codes:

• Benchmark Maps: use code SHEEXPLORES for 20% off your order
• Ritual - try your first month!
• Sawyer: Enter giveaway at She-Explores.com/sawyer
• World Nomads: Check out their podcast at Worldnomads.com/podcasts

Music is by Lee Rosevere, Jason Shaw, and Smaller Tide via Free Music Archive (CC by A license)

Music is also by Fort Vine.