Life in Motion

In this episode, we chat with Allie Valdetara of Ladies in Wadies. Growing up in the 'outdoors-adjacent' landscape of North Jersey, Allie's childhood was filled with imaginative adventures, from exploring her backyard to lakeside fishing. But for her, the joy of the outdoors was in sharing it with others. After college she struggled to carve out time to get outside - at least until remote working gained popularity. Allie bought a fly rod and hit the road with her friend. A couple months later while sitting at a brewery in Bozeman they convinced themselves to start the account Ladies in Wadies. What began as a lighthearted space to share silly moments evolved into an inclusive community celebrating impromptu fishing trips, 9 am beers, and mustache selfies. They showcase the goofy side of fishing while normalizing the learning curve, whether you're a novice or a pro. If you're just getting started on your fishing journey or seeking a community that revels in the joy of the outdoors without taking themselves too seriously, this episode's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $35,220 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 185 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we chat with Ryan Wichlens, one of the many behind Trails Magazine. Growing up around New York's Adirondack Mountains, he started as Backpacker Magazine's go-to Northeast expert during college before becoming a full-time freelance journalist in Colorado. When the end of Backpacker magazine's print era came in 2022, Ryan stepped in to fill the void with Trails Magazine. Aiming to create a print magazine tailored for backpackers but with improvements, it distinguishes itself with quality, thoughtful design, captivating large-format photography, and an emphasis on aesthetics. Unlike the ad-heavy model of many magazines, Trails relies on subscribers to sustain itself, fostering a community dedicated to the backpacking experience. If you've ever wanted to know why you should never be afraid to shoot your shot, or what it takes to build something entirely on passion, then this one's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $34,770 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 184 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we chat with Ashley Smith, a dedicated member of Lakes Region Search & Rescue. While Ashley's love for hiking started as a kid, the pandemic sparked a determination to conquer the New Hampshire 48 4,000-footers, with the majority of them being finished solo. Afterwards she had a desire to assist fellow hikers in challenging situations, obtaining certifications in wilderness first aid and first responder. Motivated by her own experiences in precarious trail situations, she joined the Lakes Region Search & Rescue team, a group of over 70 volunteers collaborating with Fish and Game to respond to incidents in the region. If you're curious about the intricacies of search and rescue missions or seeking valuable safety insights for your next trail adventure, this episode's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $34,770 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 183 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we chat with Sierra Schlag and Katie Cooney, key figures in the creation of 'Advice for Girls,' an all-women ski film. Both Sierra and Katie share a love for skiing, having embraced the sport since their early years, drawn to its creativity and freedom. When Addy Jacobsend shared the idea of a film featuring an all-female cast and production crew, it was an immediate yes. With a crew of 8 and 23 remarkable female athletes, they spent a year capturing clips and unraveling the stories behind each athlete. The vision behind 'Advice for Girls' is powerful — to provide wisdom from three generations of women in skiing. The film's narrative aims to resonate with women and girls of all ages, reinforcing the messages that they deserve success, have the right to claim their space, and contribute significantly to the ski industry. If you've ever wondered how a feature-length film can serve as a catalyst, inspiring the next generation of female shredders and breaking barriers in the world of skiing then this one's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $34,770 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 182 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we chat with Mark Malkowicz, a wilderness first responder, passionate traveler, and guide at Big Muddy Adventures. Growing up around Saint Louis, Mark shares his journey from childhood family float trips on the Current River to embarking on 100-mile paddle board adventures. It didn't stop there though. Mark was soon conquering fourteeners in Colorado and scaling glaciers in the Cascades and Andes. Now as a guide at Big Muddy Adventures he shares his love for rivers with others, from short day trips to epic 100-mile adventures. If you've ever wondered how a simple float down the river can spiral you into an outdoor junkie, or why you should just commit, then this one's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $34,770 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 181 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we chat with Clark Jones, one of many behind rvaMORE, a nonprofit comprising a diverse community of trail enthusiasts dedicated to advocating for access to trails around Richmond VA. Whether they are mountain bikers, runners, boaters, hikers, or nature lovers, the common thread is their commitment to parks and everyone who finds joy within them. With a track record of over 15,000 volunteer hours, the creation and maintenance of 75 miles of trails, and a staggering 2,000,000 users annually, rvaMORE's impact is more than just trail upkeep. If you've ever wondered about the influence a grassroots organization can have on the health and well-being of a city, then this one's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $34,770 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 180 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we chat with Annie Laurenz, an avid outdoor enthusiast, world traveler, and fearless learner. Hailing from a small Michigan town with a graduating class of 52, Annie's childhood was a canvas of rural woods exploration and frequent travels. College opened doors to international study abroad experiences across five countries and immersion in an adventure club passionate about things like backpacking and rock climbing. The adventures didn't stop there – on a whim she pedaled her bike 3,716 miles across the country. Now, through "Adventures With Annie," she shares budget-friendly travel tips, inspiring others to see the world as she has. If you've ever wondered about the fulfillment adventures can bring or why you should always be learning, then this episode's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $33,770 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 179 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Nacy Ryerson of EnCompass Academy. Growing up in Southwest Missouri, her journey took an unexpected turn in college when she discovered a passion for Special Education, leading to a master's degree. Over nine years, she dedicated herself to teaching in public schools, but the red tape challenges for students with disabilities and underserved populations left her dissatisfied. Instead of succumbing to frustration, she charted an audacious course — pursuing a doctorate with a dream to establish her own school. To no surprise, EnCompass Academy emerged. Their inclusive environment is built on a foundation and culture that empowers students to discover their inner compass, encouraging them to pursue their strengths and passions. With a small yet powerful team, they also collaborate with larger school districts to develop scalable programs. If you've ever wondered why it's ok to think outside of the box to fulfill something you believe in, then this one's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcastSince 2017 Illumine has donated over $33,770 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 178 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we chat with Melissa Wright, a true advocate for the outdoors and one of the driving forces behind Women Who Explore. Although Melissa's early years in Arizona didn't offer her much access to the great outdoors, her desire to connect with nature and a lack of like-minded adventurers in her small town didn't deter her from venturing out alone. It wasn't until her 30s that Melissa's passion for exploration truly took root, and it has been growing ever since. Her journey led her to an awesome community called Women Who Explore, where she initially became an ambassador. Soon enough, she seized the opportunity to become a co-owner of the empowering organization. Women Who Explore is on a mission to bring together women who share a love for adventure and for our planet. Their members are women thirsty for exploration, and thanks to the vibrant Women Who Explore communities, they are never disappointed. Through Women Who Explore, they discover more than just thrilling adventures; they find confidence, strength, new friends, and most importantly, a deeper connection with themselves. If you've ever wondered why it's okay to be just okay, or have been searching for a new outdoor community, then this one's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcastSince 2017 Illumine has donated over $33,770 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 177 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we chat with Katie Keller, a dedicated advocate for the great outdoors and part of the nonprofit, Wild Virginia. Growing up in the beautiful state of Virginia, Katie has always loved its diverse and stunning landscapes, from rivers to mountains, and everything in between. Katie's journey into outdoor advocacy was sparked by her desire to align her work with her deeply held values. Her first job out of college didn't quite align with her moral compass, so she decided to take a different path after finding Wild Virginia. They're a grassroots nonprofit committed to safeguarding the connectivity and integrity of Virginia's precious lands and waters. Their mission extends to mobilizing citizens, including individuals like you, to influence decision-makers, and empowering citizens and landowners to address threats to Virginia's wild places. Wild Virginia's approach also involves bringing together stakeholder groups to amplify their collective impact and, importantly, connecting people to the outdoors. After all, it is through a deep connection to the natural world that we become inspired to protect the places we know and love. If you've ever wondered about the impact grassroots organizations can have on preserving and nurturing the great outdoors, then this episode's for you!

Life in Motion is brought to you by Actual Outdoors. They help build beautiful brands that highlight the approachable and authentic parts of outdoor recreation. Said simply - they “keep it real”. Find them online at actualoutdoors.com or on Instagram at @actualoutdoors. 

Tweet us and let us know what you think of this episode! @illuminecollect

Find more episodes at www.illuminecollect.com/blogs/life-in-motion-podcast

Since 2017 Illumine has donated over $33,770 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 176 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.