Life in Motion

In this episode we chat with long-distance hiker and gear expert Liz Thomas to talk about her award-winning book, Backpacker Long Trails: Mastering the Art of the Thru-Hike. Whether you're dreaming of your first thru-hike or already counting trail miles, this episode offers real-world insight into how to make it happen.

Liz shares how the book came to life, why it’s more than just gear lists, and the importance of planning for life on—and after—the trail. With voices from all walks of life, her book gives practical advice and emotional prep for navigating everything from logistics and finances to blisters and trail magic.

Discover why this isn’t just a hiking guide—it’s a field manual for personal growth, community, and adventure.

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 $46,258 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 235 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

Chris Cornwell of Northern Neck Bike Club, is proving that a love for two wheels can spark something bigger. What started as a passion for mountain biking turned into a mission to create outdoor opportunities for the youth of Kilmarnock, Virginia. With the town’s support and a dedicated team, Chris helped establish a nonprofit that promotes cycling, mentorship, and trail development.

In this episode, Chris shares how the club quickly grew from a simple idea into a full-fledged movement—offering race training, community ride days, and even access to bikes for kids in need. He also dives into the importance of staying active, the value of persistence in making a dream a reality, and the future of trail building in their growing community.

Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or looking for inspiration to start something meaningful in your own town, this episode is 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 $46,258 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 234 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

Outdoor adventure should be for everyone—and Catalyst Sports is making sure of it. In this episode, we sit down with Maggie Smith and Emily Moscoe to discuss how Catalyst Sports is breaking down barriers for individuals with physical disabilities. From adaptive climbing and mountain biking to kayaking and hiking, Catalyst Sports is building an inclusive community that gives people access to the life-changing power of adventure.

Emily shares how she combined her background in occupational therapy with her passion for climbing, while Maggie reflects on how Catalyst helped her rediscover her love for the outdoors. They discuss the importance of community, the impact of accessibility in outdoor recreation, and how able-bodied individuals can get involved.

If you’ve ever wondered how adaptive sports work or want to learn how you can help make the outdoors more inclusive, this episode is 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 $46,258 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 233 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode of Life in Motion, we sit down with Liz Thomas, founder of Treeline Review, to explore her mission of helping adventurers buy the right gear the first time. A celebrated thru-hiker with thousands of miles under her boots, Liz shares her journey from Northern California day hikes to conquering the Triple Crown Trails (Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail).

She reveals how her frustrations with traditional gear reviews—plagued by pay-to-play schemes and lack of real-world testing—led to the creation of Treeline Review. Unlike conventional sites, Treeline Review prioritizes integrity, durability, and minimal environmental impact by encouraging consumers to buy less but better.

From trail magic to community-building events, Liz discusses the power of authentic connections and her commitment to breaking down barriers in the outdoor industry. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a beginner, Liz’s insights on gear and adventure will inspire you to hit the trail responsibly.

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 $46,258 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 232 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode of Life in Motion, we sit down with David Long, founder of Eko Patagonia, a unique eco-lodge blending outdoor adventure with cultural immersion in the heart of Chilean Patagonia. David’s journey began as a Rotary Youth Exchange student in Chile, where he was embraced by a host family who became his second home. Years later, a sabbatical from his corporate career led him back to Patagonia, inspiring him to create Eko Patagonia—a place where travelers can experience the beauty of the region while connecting deeply with its people and traditions.

David shares how his lodge focuses on sustainability, from repurposing shipping containers to sourcing local ingredients for immersive farm-to-table experiences. He also introduces us to the concept of alive, awake, aware—a philosophy that helps guests embrace personal transformation through adventure, culture, and nature.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to explore Patagonia while giving back to the community, this episode is 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 $46,258 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 231 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we chat with Jorge Salas Guevara, founder of New Paths Expeditions, to explore his journey of turning a lifelong passion for adventure into a thriving business. From his early days discovering Patagonia to leading small-group expeditions across over 58 destinations, Jorge shares captivating stories of immersing travelers in remote and authentic cultural experiences.

With a commitment to sustainability and respecting local cultures, Jorge reveals how New Paths Expeditions creates unforgettable moments—whether it’s exploring the depths of Papua New Guinea, riding with nomads in Mongolia, or crafting bespoke adventures for families. He also offers practical advice for those seeking their first taste of immersive travel while emphasizing the transformative power of exploring the world.

Whether you're an experienced traveler or just getting started, this episode will inspire you to pack your bags and embrace adventure. Tune in and prepare to be transported to some of the world’s most fascinating corners!

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 $46,258 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 230 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we chat with Nicole Helthaler from Prison Yoga Project, a nonprofit using yoga to foster healing and transformation in the criminal justice system. Nicole shares her journey from teaching in classrooms to bringing mindfulness and self-regulation practices into correctional facilities worldwide.
We explore how Prison Yoga Project began at San Quentin and now spans over 13 states and countries like Mexico, Sweden, and Australia. Nicole discusses how yoga helps incarcerated individuals manage stress, heal from trauma, and build resilience. She tells powerful stories of transformation, including participants who’ve used yoga to turn their lives around and give back to their communities.
If you've ever wondered how movement and mindfulness can create real change, not just for individuals but for entire systems, 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 $46,258 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 229 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we chat with Evan Stafford, the Communications Director at American Whitewater, an organization on a mission to protect and restore America's rivers. By working to restore flows in de-watered rivers and advocating against harmful dam projects, American Whitewater plays a role in balancing the needs of river ecosystems with human activity.
American Whitewater's history runs deep. Starting as a grassroots group of paddlers in the 1950's, it has grown into the leading organization for river protection today. From efforts to secure restored river flows through hydropower relicensing to promoting river safety, their impact doesn't go unnoticed.
Whether you're an advocate yourself, or just love getting out on the water, 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 $45,096 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 228 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode we chat with Jackie "Flo" Sidor, an artist, photographer, writer, teacher, and forager, as she shares her unconventional journey of reinvention and self-discovery. From being a dedicated art teacher to hiking the Appalachian Trail, and then transitioning to life in a converted short bus, Flo’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of following your passions and stepping outside the comfort zone.
We dive into her journey, including her love for nature, the challenges and triumphs of long-distance hiking, and how she's continued her creative work while living on the move. Discover how she turned her love for the outdoors into a sustainable, free-spirited lifestyle, and hear about her upcoming adventures, including plans to do trail work and travel abroad. 

Whether you're itching for a new adventure or need a little inspiration to take the leap, 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 $45,096 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 227 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.

In this episode, we chat with Seneca Kristjonsdottir of The Thalweg, a publication that highlights the art and stories of those who live and work in wild landscapes. Seneca shares the inspiration behind starting The Thalweg, how it connects creatives from the outdoor community, and the challenges of building a nonprofit from the ground up.
From guiding rivers to creating a platform for poetry, art, and stories about the backcountry, we dive into the journey of bringing this unique project to life. Learn how The Thalweg supports artists, showcases underrepresented voices, and builds a creative community around the wild places that inspire it all.
Whether you love the outdoors, are a creative yourself, or both, 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 $45,096 to outdoor nonprofits and shared over 226 stories on the Life in Motion Podcast.