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🎙 No One Walks the Trail Alone

This week, we sit down with George Eshelman — U.S. Army veteran, three-time Appalachian Trail finisher, and the real-life subject of The Keeper film. George shares his raw and powerful story of how hiking the AT — while carrying over 300 name tapes of fallen brothers and sisters — became both a memorial and a turning point in his own battle with PTSD.

From moments of connection with strangers on the trail to the life-saving realization that “you’re not alone,” George opens up about resilience, healing, and the role the outdoors can play in saving lives.

📺 The Keeper is streaming now on Prime, Tubi, and YouTube.

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains candid discussions of suicide, PTSD, and sexual assault related to military service. Some of the stories shared may be distressing for certain listeners. Please listen with care and take breaks if needed.

If you're a veteran in crisis—or anyone in need of support—help is available. Dial 988 and press 1 to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line, 24/7.

You are not alone.

Episode Links:
George on Instagram
The Keeper Movie on Instagram
The Keeper Movie Website
The Keeper Movie Facebook

This episode was Produced by Jordyn Smith, follow her on Instagram @jordyn.journeys

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

This episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.

Send us a text

🎙️Bears, Breakups & Big Views with Maddie of @nomaddiie🐻⛰️

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Maddie—solo traveler, outdoor content creator, and aspiring wildlife biologist. From road-tripping in her Toyota Corolla to finally summiting Angel’s Landing, Maddie shares how a breakup led her to rediscover freedom, purpose, and presence in the outdoors.

We talk about her journey to visit all 63 U.S. National Parks, what it’s like hiking solo as a woman, and how nature has played a key role in her mental health journey. She also shares some powerful wildlife encounters—including a bear charge at Sequoia—and why education and Leave No Trace matter more than ever.

🎧 Tune in for a vulnerable, inspiring, and real conversation about choosing yourself, chasing big views, and protecting the places we love.

Episode Links:
Maddie on Instagram
Maddie on Facebook
Maddie's Beacons Page
Maddie on TikTok

This episode was Produced by Jordyn Smith, follow her on Instagram @jordyn.journeys

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

This episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.

Send us a text

📚 Books, Button-Downs & Backcountry Beauty with Igor Bravemore 🥾🌍

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Igor Bravemore—hiker, author, and visual storyteller behind the newly released book Out in Nature. Based in the DMV (DC, Maryland & Virginia) region, Igor brings a fresh perspective on the underrated trails of the East Coast, the solitude of off-the-beaten-path adventures, and what it means to see the world with curiosity and care.

We explore his journey of writing a book over four years, snowy scrambles in the Adirondacks, and spur-of-the-moment trips to Greece, Costa Rica, and Colombia—all sparked by travel deals and a love for discovery. Igor also shares the wisdom he's gained from solo winter hikes, guided treks, and why he sometimes hits the trail in a button-down shirt with a magnifying glass in hand.

🎙️ Tune in for a thoughtful and inspiring look at hiking, writing, and the wonder that comes with slowing down and staying curious.

Episode Links:
Igor's Book - Out in Nature
Photos for each Chapter in his Book
Igor on Instagram

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

This episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.

Send us a text

🌍 Wonders, Whitney & the Wild with Trisha 🏞️✨

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Trisha—adventure traveler, national park enthusiast, and the storyteller behind @wanderwoman619. From desert trails in Sedona to standing atop Mount Whitney, hiking rim-to-rim across the Grand Canyon, and checking off world wonders like Machu Picchu, Trisha’s journey is a masterclass in fearless exploration and joyful grit.

We dive into her experiences hiking The Wave in the snow, through-hiking the Enchantments, and her love of pairing summit days with hot springs soaks, craft beer, and the occasional kayak paddle. With honest reflections, plenty of laughs, and global perspective, Trisha reminds us that adventure doesn’t slow down—it just evolves.

🎙️ Tune in for world-class trail tales, travel wisdom, and a celebration of the breathtaking moments that make it all worth it.

Episode Links:
Trisha on Instagram
Trisha on TikTok

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

This episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.

Send us a text

🌎 Mountains, Miles & Meaning with Luis of Vamos Hiking Crew 🥾✨

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Luis—global adventurer, group hike leader, and founder of the Vamos Hiking Crew. Known on Instagram as @mrtraveler.me, Luis has explored 34 countries, summited over 65 peaks, and built a thriving hiking community that blends culture, connection, and courage on every trail.

From childhood hikes in Guatemala to drone-filming eruptions at Volcán de Fuego, Luis shares unforgettable stories that spark wanderlust and a deeper love for the outdoors. We dive into the origins of Vamos Hiking Crew, the importance of representation in nature, and the emotional clarity that comes from standing on a summit—whether it’s in Peru, California, or beyond.

🎙️ Tune in for global trail stories, leadership lessons, and the heart of a true explorer.

Episode Links:
MrTraveler on Instagram
Vamos Hiking Crew on Instagram

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

This episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.

Send us a text

🥾 3,000 Miles, One Husky, and a Whole Lot of Oatmeal: Trail Life with Oats 🌲🐾

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Oats—long-distance hiker, community builder, and the vibrant personality behind @oatshikes. With over 3,000 miles under her boots across trails like the Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Appalachian High Route, and the Pinhoti Trail, Oats brings a wealth of experience and heart to every step.

We talk about her roots in Asheville’s outdoor youth programs, the bond she shares with her trail dog Thru Dog, and the emotional return home after a devastating hurricane. Oats also shares her love of Pop-Tarts, her go-to gear tips (yes to hiking umbrellas and camp booties!), and the meaningful work she’s doing with Sawyer Products to give back to the trail community.

🎙️ Tune in for trail-tested wisdom, big laughs, and a celebration of resilience, community, and dry oatmeal.

Episode Links:
Oats Hikes Website
Oats Posts on The Trek
Sawyer Website
Pinhoti Experience Foundation
Rebuild Hot Springs
BeLoved Asheville

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

This episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.

Send us a text

⛰️ Summit Stories & Trail Laughter: Climbing Humphreys Peak with Friends 🥾🎉

Season 11 kicks off with a bang—and a summit! In this special in-person premiere episode, we hit the trail to the highest point in Arizona—Humphreys Peak—joined by friends Kelly, Bekka, Britt, and Grant for an unforgettable group hike. Recorded both before and after our 11-mile, 3,300+ ft climb, this episode captures the nerves, excitement, trail talk, and post-hike hilarity that can only come from a shared summit adventure.

We get into hiking superstitions, trail mix preferences, altitude surprises, and what it really takes to push past the tree line—together. From group encouragement to summit celebrations, this episode is all about community, challenge, and the joy of doing hard things with good people.

🎙️ Tune in for trail laughs, summit vibes, and the perfect start to Season 11.

Episode Links:
Kelly’s Instagram
Bekka’s Instagram
Britt’s Instagram
Grant’s Instagram

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

This episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.

Send us a text

🌍 Season 10 Finale: My Solo Adventure Through New Zealand 🥾

In this special solo finale episode, your host Ivan takes you on a whirlwind journey across the stunning landscapes of New Zealand! What started as a Lord of the Rings-inspired bucket list dream turned into an epic road trip filled with volcanos, glowworm caves, glacial lakes, fall colors, and yes… a birthday bungee jump.

From exploring “Mt. Doom” in Tongariro National Park to chasing waterfalls in Milford Sound, soaking in the solitude of Lake Marian, and recreating Bilbo’s iconic “I’m going on an adventure!” moment in Hobbiton—this episode is packed with storytelling, laughter, and travel tips for anyone dreaming of their own NZ getaway.

Whether you’re a fan of fantasy films, a hiker at heart, or someone itching to plan your next big trip—this episode will leave you inspired to chase your own adventures, wherever they may lead.

🎧 Grab your headphones, and let’s head to Middle-earth!

Episode Links:
Auckland Airbnb (Near Airport - Awesome Host!)

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

This episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.

Send us a text

🌵 Desert Peaks & Purposeful Paths with Emily from Little Red Travels 🥾

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Emily, an Arizona-based adventurer and the voice behind Little Red Travels, whose hiking journey began with a single visit to a national park—and turned into a life built around nature, reflection, and soulful storytelling.

From the Superstition Mountains to Yosemite’s towering cliffs, Emily shares how hiking helps her find spiritual connection and inner calm, even in the heart of Phoenix’s triple-digit summers. We explore her favorite trails—like Weaver’s Needle and the Wave Cave—plus her trail rituals and her mission to make the outdoors feel accessible, authentic, and intentional.

Episode Links:
Emily on Instagram
Emily's Website - Little Red Travels

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

This episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.

Send us a text

📝 Stories That Move Mountains: Teaghan on Hiking, Writing & Finding Purpose Outdoors 🌍🥾

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Teaghan—a gifted storyteller, outdoor journalist, and passionate hiker whose path to the wild began with a spontaneous backpacking trip through Norway’s fjords at 18. From growing up in the Sunshine State to writing for Outside, Backpacker, and Climbing magazines, Teaghan has carved out a powerful voice in the outdoor media world.

She shares her journey of resilience, reinvention, and reconnection, and why she believes inclusive, honest storytelling is the heart of impactful outdoor content. We talk about her favorite wildflower hikes, her bucket-list trails, and what it truly means to hike with intention—not just for the miles, but for the meaning.

Episode Links:
Teaghan on Instagram
Teaghan on LinkedIn
Teaghan's Website

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

This episode's music was created by Ketsa, follow him on Instagram @Ketsamusic

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.