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🫎 Moose Encounters & Mountain Stillness with Mark🌲📸

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Mark—wildlife photographer, storyteller, and moose whisperer. Through solo hikes in Utah’s Wasatch Front, Mark has crossed paths with more than 100 moose, a bobcat at just 40 yards, and countless moments of spiritual clarity in wild spaces.

He shares how hiking became a healing outlet after heartbreak, evolving into a soulful pursuit of presence, photography, and purpose. We dive into the magic of Willow Lake and Lake Blanche, the surreal beauty of The Wave in Northern Arizona, and what it means to attempt to log over 250,000 ft of elevation gain in a single year. Along the way, Mark opens up about finding stillness in a hammock at Lake Mary, the artistry of seeing nature beyond the lens, and his dreams of bringing his photography to local farmers markets.

 🎙️ Tune in for unforgettable wildlife encounters, trail reflections, and the belief that hiking is more than a hobby—it’s a sacred act of becoming.

Episode Links:
Mark on Instagram

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

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

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.

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🎙️ From First Steps to Thousands of Miles with Melanie aka Poppi 🌲🥾

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we sit down with Melanie, whose journey from two simple overnight trips to conquering the Pacific Crest Trail, Colorado Trail, and Arizona Trail is nothing short of inspiring. With a background in nutrition, she shares how fueling your body with intention can transform the trail experience—from protein coffee rituals to the importance of macronutrients on thru-hikes.

We dive into the highs and lows of her PCT flip-flop year, summit stories on the Colorado Trail, and the surprises of snow and storms on the AZT. Melanie also opens up about her trail name “Poppi,” her adventures with her Aussie pup Butters, and the mindset that keeps her steady through both breathtaking sunrises and brutal storms. 🌄🐾

✨ If you’ve ever dreamed of a thru-hike but felt intimidated, Melanie’s story proves that courage, community, and curiosity can carry you farther than you think.

Episode Links:
Melanie on Instagram
PNWoofs Dog Barkery

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

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

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

🎙️ Peak Lists, Family Trips & 1,000+ Summits with Brett of @thehuntindaddy ⛰️

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Brett Marciasini—peak bagger, hunter-turned-hiker, and dad passing his love for the outdoors on to the next generation. From tackling Nevada’s most remote ranges to standing nearly 19,000 feet high in Ecuador, Brett shares what it’s like chasing lists, solitude, and adventure across the West.

We talk about completing the 63 Oguls, 91 Great Basin Peaks (and counting), and every Nevada county high point, as well as the challenges of sketchy roads to trailheads and even a broken ankle on the way to his 1,000th summit. Brett also shares how hiking with his kids has reshaped the way he sees the trail—and why the journey matters as much as the peak.

🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation about grit, family, and finding beauty in the places few others go.

Episode Links:
Brett on Instagram

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

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

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

🎙 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.