Christine Reed's "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, rock climber, and trail runner. In this episode, she talks about her giant leap from day-hiking to thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail - the literal twists and turns of the trail, and the experience of grief and loss that was closely interwoven into her thru-hiking experience.

Her stories recalling long trail days, late summits, and heavy packs will have you chomping at the bit for your own adventures this coming summer!

Christine is the author of Alone in Wonderland, an adventure memoir. Alone in Wonderland is a testament to the decision to name who you want to be and make it so.

Follow her adventures on Instagram at @ruggedoutdoorswoman.

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Contributors: Jamie Blackburn (host, creator, producer). Christine Reed (Guest). Alex Lee-Ammons and For The Love Media (Producer, Editor, Cover Art and Design). Original music by Sounds Like Sander.