Send us a text

The emotional landscape after cancer treatment catches many survivors off guard. What most people don't anticipate is how something as seemingly benign as a comment about growing hair can trigger a cascade of complex feelings. 

My experience walking down that cancer center hallway—gray, curly hair growing back after chemo, feeling like a stranger in my own body—revealed just how unprepared I was for the emotional aftermath of treatment. When that nurse called out "your hair looks great" and responded to my ambivalence with "just be glad you have hair," I was thrust into a whirlwind of shame, anger, and confusion. Why did I feel so sensitive? Why couldn't I just be grateful?

Through therapy and reflection, I discovered what many cancer survivors eventually learn: healing involves giving yourself permission to feel everything. The anger at what cancer took from you. The sadness over changes to your appearance. The frustration when others expect you to maintain a perpetually grateful attitude. These feelings exist alongside moments of joy, relief, and genuine gratitude—and all are valid parts of the recovery journey.

For anyone supporting someone through or after cancer, remember that asking "how are you feeling?" creates more meaningful connection than commenting on appearance. And for fellow survivors navigating this complicated terrain: your feelings are valid, your journey is your own, and you're doing remarkably well navigating a path few truly understand until they've walked it themselves. The real healing begins when we acknowledge the full spectrum of our emotions without judgment.

Support the show

? Have a question about our group trips? Book a call with Rebecca here: https://calendar.app.google/6wYbYugTCvJfXiWZ8

💪🏽 Get our Kilimanjaro Coaching: https://calendar.app.google/QW5JywkMYUpGcbsa8

✨ Do you want to sponsor Hike Like A Woman? Fill out our form: https://forms.gle/sXTcn2P9bVZ53Sqc6

/-/-/-/

TECH

▶️ Go-Pro: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJI Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJi Osmo Mobile Tripod: https://amzn.to/41q366E

/-/-/-/

SHOP

🥾 Rockporch (if you’re shopping REI or Moosejaw): https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Amazon (because ya know, we’re all doing it): https://www.amazon.com/shop/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Buy rad HLAW swag here: https://hikelikeawoman.creator-spring.com/

/-/-/-/

GROUP TRIPS

✈️ Join us for our next Kilimanjaro climb: https://trovatrip.com/trip/africa/tanzania/tanzania-with-hikelikeawoman-aug-2025

✈️ Join us for our group trip to Patagonia: https://trovatrip.com/trip/south-america/patagonia/argentina-with-rebecca-walsh-oct-2025

✈️ Book Tour du Mont Blanc Aug 16-22: ...

Send us a text

Words shape our reality, especially when facing life-altering diagnoses. My cancer journey began December 7th, 2021—terrible timing for a small business owner with three ventures heading into the holiday rush. But beyond the logistical nightmare was an unexpected challenge: finding language that authentically described my experience.

Days after my diagnosis, while working alone in my shop trying to process genetic testing decisions, a well-meaning stranger approached. He insisted I was already a "survivor," though I'd barely begun facing cancer. As he continued his unsolicited pep talk, I felt increasingly disconnected from this label thrust upon me. The discomfort only deepened as others encouraged me to "stay in the fight" and "kick cancer's ass." Having served two deployments in Iraq, these battle metaphors rang hollow—I'd entered war feeling prepared and trained, while cancer left me feeling utterly vulnerable and unprepared.

Throughout treatment, I struggled to find accurate terminology. After surgery removed the tumor, I couldn't say "I have cancer," but "I had cancer" didn't capture my ongoing experience. What surprised me most was discovering that despite cancer's prevalence, we lack nuanced vocabulary for describing this complex journey. While some find empowerment in "survivor" or "thriver" labels, these terms can also create pressure or minimize ongoing challenges. The language that finally resonated for me was simply "someone who experienced cancer"—acknowledging what happened without letting it define me. What matters most is allowing each person to choose their own cancer terminology, honoring the deeply personal nature of this journey and the power of language to shape how we heal.

What terminology resonates with your cancer experience? Join the conversation and share your thoughts.

Support the show

? Have a question about our group trips? Book a call with Rebecca here: https://calendar.app.google/6wYbYugTCvJfXiWZ8

💪🏽 Get our Kilimanjaro Coaching: https://calendar.app.google/QW5JywkMYUpGcbsa8

✨ Do you want to sponsor Hike Like A Woman? Fill out our form: https://forms.gle/sXTcn2P9bVZ53Sqc6

/-/-/-/

TECH

▶️ Go-Pro: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJI Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJi Osmo Mobile Tripod: https://amzn.to/41q366E

/-/-/-/

SHOP

🥾 Rockporch (if you’re shopping REI or Moosejaw): https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Amazon (because ya know, we’re all doing it): https://www.amazon.com/shop/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Buy rad HLAW swag here: https://hikelikeawoman.creator-spring.com/

/-/-/-/

GROUP TRIPS

✈️ Join us for our next Kilimanjaro climb: https://trovatrip.com/trip/africa/tanzania/tanzania-with-hikelikeawoman-aug-2025

✈️ Join us for our group trip to Patagonia: https://trovatrip.com/trip/south-america/patagonia/argentina-with-rebecca-walsh-oct-2025

✈️ Book Tour du Mont Blanc Aug 16-22: ...

Send us a text

What happens when the place that saved your life becomes the trigger for your deepest trauma? Standing in the parking lot of my cancer center, just a mile from my home, my body betrays me with each visit—racing heart, metallic taste, nausea—physical reminders of the chemotherapy, radiation, and countless needle sticks that occurred within those walls.

For three years following my breast cancer diagnosis, these "cancer days" dragged me into a predictable spiral of anxiety, depression, and isolation. Until suddenly, they didn't. After 40 months, something shifted unexpectedly after a family vacation. Walking into my oncology appointment without the usual meltdown, completing my checkup without anxiety, and—most surprisingly—returning to work instead of collapsing on the couch with junk food and reality TV. The realization was profound: I could finally say "I'm okay" and truly mean it.

The unspoken truth of survivorship is that there's no guidebook for rebuilding your life after cancer treatment ends. Society expects you to feel grateful, energetic, and "back to normal" when everything about your reality has transformed. You're supposed to trust a body that betrayed you, feel healthy while managing medication side effects, and confidently discuss your experience when you're still processing the trauma. These impossible expectations only deepen the isolation. My journey revealed three essential elements for moving forward: a meaningful goal (climbing Mount Kilimanjaro), finding community with others who understand, and developing the grit necessary to face an uncertain future. Whether you're navigating cancer or another life-altering challenge, these principles—goal, group, and grit—offer a framework for finding your way when there is no map. Join me every Tuesday morning as we explore what it truly means to build a life after cancer.

Support the show

? Have a question about our group trips? Book a call with Rebecca here: https://calendar.app.google/6wYbYugTCvJfXiWZ8

💪🏽 Get our Kilimanjaro Coaching: https://calendar.app.google/QW5JywkMYUpGcbsa8

✨ Do you want to sponsor Hike Like A Woman? Fill out our form: https://forms.gle/sXTcn2P9bVZ53Sqc6

/-/-/-/

TECH

▶️ Go-Pro: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJI Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJi Osmo Mobile Tripod: https://amzn.to/41q366E

/-/-/-/

SHOP

🥾 Rockporch (if you’re shopping REI or Moosejaw): https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Amazon (because ya know, we’re all doing it): https://www.amazon.com/shop/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Buy rad HLAW swag here: https://hikelikeawoman.creator-spring.com/

/-/-/-/

GROUP TRIPS

✈️ Join us for our next Kilimanjaro climb: https://trovatrip.com/trip/africa/tanzania/tanzania-with-hikelikeawoman-aug-2025

✈️ Join us for our group trip to Patagonia: https://trovatrip.com/trip/south-america/patagonia/argentina-with-rebecca-walsh-oct-2025

✈️ Book Tour du Mont Blanc Aug 16-22: ...

Send us a text

A profound shift is happening. After a decade of leading Hike Like a Woman, I'm transforming this platform into something deeply personal yet universally resonant. During a coffee conversation with a young military friend facing trauma, her question struck me to my core: "How do I move forward after something horrific?" While hiking solo through Moab's desert trails, the answer crystallized—my experiences with breast cancer, military service, and rebuilding life after trauma could serve others in ways my hiking content alone never could.

The statistics are alarming. One in eight American women will face breast cancer, but for female veterans who served in Iraq or Afghanistan, that risk skyrockets to one in four or five. My generation of veterans stands at the precipice of a potential reproductive cancer epidemic, yet these stories often remain untold. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro became my north star after cancer treatment—a tangible goal that helped me reclaim my body and spirit when everything familiar had been stripped away. That journey taught me lessons too valuable to keep to myself.

Starting next week, this podcast transforms into The Rebecca Walsh Show, dedicated to cancer recovery, life after trauma, and finding purpose through life's most challenging terrains. I'll continue posting audio episodes every Tuesday, complemented by video content where I'll share stories from the forest. For those still seeking hiking and adventure content, Hike Like a Woman continues as a separate platform. If you've connected with my story, I invite you to join the community I'm building—whether through this podcast, my new YouTube channel, or the Kilimanjaro coaching Patreon. Sometimes our most difficult paths lead to our greatest purpose. Will you walk this new trail with me?

Support the show

? Have a question about our group trips? Book a call with Rebecca here: https://calendar.app.google/6wYbYugTCvJfXiWZ8

💪🏽 Get our Kilimanjaro Coaching: https://calendar.app.google/QW5JywkMYUpGcbsa8

✨ Do you want to sponsor Hike Like A Woman? Fill out our form: https://forms.gle/sXTcn2P9bVZ53Sqc6

/-/-/-/

TECH

▶️ Go-Pro: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJI Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJi Osmo Mobile Tripod: https://amzn.to/41q366E

/-/-/-/

SHOP

🥾 Rockporch (if you’re shopping REI or Moosejaw): https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Amazon (because ya know, we’re all doing it): https://www.amazon.com/shop/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Buy rad HLAW swag here: https://hikelikeawoman.creator-spring.com/

/-/-/-/

GROUP TRIPS

✈️ Join us for our next Kilimanjaro climb: https://trovatrip.com/trip/africa/tanzania/tanzania-with-hikelikeawoman-aug-2025

✈️ Join us for our group trip to Patagonia: https://trovatrip.com/trip/south-america/patagonia/argentina-with-rebecca-walsh-oct-2025

✈️ Book Tour du Mont Blanc Aug 16-22: ...

Send us a text

Taking a vacation changed everything. After two weeks away—first helping my mom launch her book in Montana, then mountain biking through the red deserts of Moab with my family—I returned with a revelation that's transformed my approach to business and life.

For years, I've resisted the "busy" badge of honor our culture celebrates. My mantra became "if it's not a hell yeah, then it's a hell no," yet I still found myself caught in the quantity trap. I was pushing out weekly newsletters that felt like inbox pollution, cranking out multiple YouTube videos weekly because "experts" said it would boost my channel, and filling my calendar with back-to-back adventure trips.

Then came the experiment that changed everything. Instead of producing two quick videos, I poured my energy into creating one exceptional video about Nalgene water bottles. After 24 hours of silence, it exploded—7,000+ views and 200+ comments within a week. The message was clear: quality creates exponential results through deeper connection.

This revelation sparked meaningful changes at Hike Like A Woman. Monthly newsletters will replace weekly ones. YouTube videos will come once weekly, crafted with care. And I'm reducing our 2026 guided trips to three extraordinary adventures—Scotland's West Highland Trail, Tour de Mont Blanc, and Kilimanjaro—allowing me to truly know the women joining these journeys.

What might happen if you created more white space in your life? If you're feeling overwhelmed by commitments, try slowing down. Focus on excellence over frequency. Sometimes the path to greater impact requires doing less, but doing it extraordinarily well. Ready to join me on this journey to quality over quantity?

Support the show

? Have a question about our group trips? Book a call with Rebecca here: https://calendar.app.google/6wYbYugTCvJfXiWZ8

💪🏽 Get our Kilimanjaro Coaching: https://calendar.app.google/QW5JywkMYUpGcbsa8

✨ Do you want to sponsor Hike Like A Woman? Fill out our form: https://forms.gle/sXTcn2P9bVZ53Sqc6

/-/-/-/

TECH

▶️ Go-Pro: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJI Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJi Osmo Mobile Tripod: https://amzn.to/41q366E

/-/-/-/

SHOP

🥾 Rockporch (if you’re shopping REI or Moosejaw): https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Amazon (because ya know, we’re all doing it): https://www.amazon.com/shop/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Buy rad HLAW swag here: https://hikelikeawoman.creator-spring.com/

/-/-/-/

GROUP TRIPS

✈️ Join us for our next Kilimanjaro climb: https://trovatrip.com/trip/africa/tanzania/tanzania-with-hikelikeawoman-aug-2025

✈️ Join us for our group trip to Patagonia: https://trovatrip.com/trip/south-america/patagonia/argentina-with-rebecca-walsh-oct-2025

✈️ Book Tour du Mont Blanc Aug 16-22: ...

Send us a text

Imagine a life where the unexpected becomes the norm—where deconstructing deeply ingrained beliefs, battling nature's fury, and facing personal adversities are just the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Our host invites you into the intimate spaces of their life story, from the heights of training for the Olympics and serving as an army officer in Iraq, to summiting Mount Kilimanjaro and surviving a tornado. This episode isn't just a recount of events; it's a tapestry woven with resilience, introspection, and the courage to redefine dreams when faced with the unthinkable. Through the lens of their latest creative endeavor, the Substack "Go Hike Like a Woman," the host shares a poignant tale that challenges the very essence of ambition and self-worth.

Set against the backdrop of a snowy November in Montana, our host recounts a pivotal moment when their ski coach's harsh words thrust them into a confrontation with doubt and disappointment. What does it truly take to chase dreams that seem just out of reach? Discover how this moment of vulnerability became a catalyst for reflection and growth, and how it ultimately shaped their journey. Join us to explore stories that transcend the ordinary, offering a raw glimpse into what it means to pursue passions relentlessly, even when the world says otherwise. This episode is a testament to the power of storytelling, connection, and the unyielding spirit to keep moving forward.

Support the show

? Have a question about our group trips? Book a call with Rebecca here: https://calendar.app.google/6wYbYugTCvJfXiWZ8

💪🏽 Get our Kilimanjaro Coaching: https://calendar.app.google/QW5JywkMYUpGcbsa8

✨ Do you want to sponsor Hike Like A Woman? Fill out our form: https://forms.gle/sXTcn2P9bVZ53Sqc6

/-/-/-/

TECH

▶️ Go-Pro: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJI Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJi Osmo Mobile Tripod: https://amzn.to/41q366E

/-/-/-/

SHOP

🥾 Rockporch (if you’re shopping REI or Moosejaw): https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Amazon (because ya know, we’re all doing it): https://www.amazon.com/shop/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Buy rad HLAW swag here: https://hikelikeawoman.creator-spring.com/

/-/-/-/

GROUP TRIPS

✈️ Join us for our next Kilimanjaro climb: https://trovatrip.com/trip/africa/tanzania/tanzania-with-hikelikeawoman-aug-2025

✈️ Join us for our group trip to Patagonia: https://trovatrip.com/trip/south-america/patagonia/argentina-with-rebecca-walsh-oct-2025

✈️ Book Tour du Mont Blanc Aug 16-22: ...

Send us a text

Have you ever felt torn between wanting to help someone and needing to set boundaries? I recently found myself in this exact predicament when a woman flooded my Instagram with questions about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Although she wasn’t part of our Hike Like a Woman adventure, my instinct to be helpful took over, and I ended up sacrificing time meant for my committed clients. This situation forced me to confront the difficult balance between generosity and responsibility, and the guilt that comes with being a people pleaser.

Join me as I explore the challenges and lessons learned from this experience. We dive into the importance of prioritizing those who have invested in our journey and the need to protect our time for those commitments. In this candid discussion, I share insights on managing the delicate act of setting boundaries while maintaining a spirit of helpfulness. Discover how acknowledging one's limits can lead to healthier personal and professional relationships, and learn strategies for achieving that elusive balance.

Support the show

? Have a question about our group trips? Book a call with Rebecca here: https://calendar.app.google/6wYbYugTCvJfXiWZ8

💪🏽 Get our Kilimanjaro Coaching: https://calendar.app.google/QW5JywkMYUpGcbsa8

✨ Do you want to sponsor Hike Like A Woman? Fill out our form: https://forms.gle/sXTcn2P9bVZ53Sqc6

/-/-/-/

TECH

▶️ Go-Pro: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJI Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJi Osmo Mobile Tripod: https://amzn.to/41q366E

/-/-/-/

SHOP

🥾 Rockporch (if you’re shopping REI or Moosejaw): https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Amazon (because ya know, we’re all doing it): https://www.amazon.com/shop/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Buy rad HLAW swag here: https://hikelikeawoman.creator-spring.com/

/-/-/-/

GROUP TRIPS

✈️ Join us for our next Kilimanjaro climb: https://trovatrip.com/trip/africa/tanzania/tanzania-with-hikelikeawoman-aug-2025

✈️ Join us for our group trip to Patagonia: https://trovatrip.com/trip/south-america/patagonia/argentina-with-rebecca-walsh-oct-2025

✈️ Book Tour du Mont Blanc Aug 16-22: ...

Send us a text

Snowflakes are falling outside my office window, tempting me to hit the trails for some cross-country skiing. But today, my heart is set on sharing the whirlwind adventure of our recent group trip to Iceland with you. From the chaos of delayed flights due to an unexpected storm to the breathtaking sights of the Golden Circle and the colossal glaciers, Iceland offered a canvas of experiences that were both challenging and exhilarating. Join me as I recount our journey, complete with tales of our unique guide, Thor, whose grumpy charm added a quirky twist to our travels.

Looking ahead, I'm thrilled to announce a new collaboration that promises to elevate future trips, ensuring they align more closely with the Hike Like a Woman spirit we cherish. Our Iceland trip taught us valuable lessons, and we're using this knowledge to enhance upcoming adventures, including our much-anticipated Kilimanjaro climb. As we gear up for this epic trek, I'm in constant dialogue with our community, tackling challenges like keeping water bottles from freezing on summit night. Let's embrace the thrill of exploration together, and thank you for being a part of our adventure-loving family!

Support the show

? Have a question about our group trips? Book a call with Rebecca here: https://calendar.app.google/6wYbYugTCvJfXiWZ8

💪🏽 Get our Kilimanjaro Coaching: https://calendar.app.google/QW5JywkMYUpGcbsa8

✨ Do you want to sponsor Hike Like A Woman? Fill out our form: https://forms.gle/sXTcn2P9bVZ53Sqc6

/-/-/-/

TECH

▶️ Go-Pro: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJI Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJi Osmo Mobile Tripod: https://amzn.to/41q366E

/-/-/-/

SHOP

🥾 Rockporch (if you’re shopping REI or Moosejaw): https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Amazon (because ya know, we’re all doing it): https://www.amazon.com/shop/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Buy rad HLAW swag here: https://hikelikeawoman.creator-spring.com/

/-/-/-/

GROUP TRIPS

✈️ Join us for our next Kilimanjaro climb: https://trovatrip.com/trip/africa/tanzania/tanzania-with-hikelikeawoman-aug-2025

✈️ Join us for our group trip to Patagonia: https://trovatrip.com/trip/south-america/patagonia/argentina-with-rebecca-walsh-oct-2025

✈️ Book Tour du Mont Blanc Aug 16-22: ...

Send us a text

Ever wondered how to tackle high-altitude adventures with confidence and ease? 

Today I share five crucial tips to make your high-altitude experience smoother. 

Support the show

? Have a question about our group trips? Book a call with Rebecca here: https://calendar.app.google/6wYbYugTCvJfXiWZ8

💪🏽 Get our Kilimanjaro Coaching: https://calendar.app.google/QW5JywkMYUpGcbsa8

✨ Do you want to sponsor Hike Like A Woman? Fill out our form: https://forms.gle/sXTcn2P9bVZ53Sqc6

/-/-/-/

TECH

▶️ Go-Pro: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJI Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJi Osmo Mobile Tripod: https://amzn.to/41q366E

/-/-/-/

SHOP

🥾 Rockporch (if you’re shopping REI or Moosejaw): https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Amazon (because ya know, we’re all doing it): https://www.amazon.com/shop/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Buy rad HLAW swag here: https://hikelikeawoman.creator-spring.com/

/-/-/-/

GROUP TRIPS

✈️ Join us for our next Kilimanjaro climb: https://trovatrip.com/trip/africa/tanzania/tanzania-with-hikelikeawoman-aug-2025

✈️ Join us for our group trip to Patagonia: https://trovatrip.com/trip/south-america/patagonia/argentina-with-rebecca-walsh-oct-2025

✈️ Book Tour du Mont Blanc Aug 16-22: ...

Send us a text

Imagine standing under the enchanting glow of the Northern Lights, or conquering the majestic peaks of Kilimanjaro, all while being part of a community that values your voice in crafting the perfect adventure. 

That's what we did with our mega big survey and on today's show I share where we'll be headed in 2026. 

Support the show

? Have a question about our group trips? Book a call with Rebecca here: https://calendar.app.google/6wYbYugTCvJfXiWZ8

💪🏽 Get our Kilimanjaro Coaching: https://calendar.app.google/QW5JywkMYUpGcbsa8

✨ Do you want to sponsor Hike Like A Woman? Fill out our form: https://forms.gle/sXTcn2P9bVZ53Sqc6

/-/-/-/

TECH

▶️ Go-Pro: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJI Wireless Microphone: https://amzn.to/49yhSuq

▶️ DJi Osmo Mobile Tripod: https://amzn.to/41q366E

/-/-/-/

SHOP

🥾 Rockporch (if you’re shopping REI or Moosejaw): https://app.rockporch.com/Profile/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Amazon (because ya know, we’re all doing it): https://www.amazon.com/shop/hikelikeawoman

🥾 Buy rad HLAW swag here: https://hikelikeawoman.creator-spring.com/

/-/-/-/

GROUP TRIPS

✈️ Join us for our next Kilimanjaro climb: https://trovatrip.com/trip/africa/tanzania/tanzania-with-hikelikeawoman-aug-2025

✈️ Join us for our group trip to Patagonia: https://trovatrip.com/trip/south-america/patagonia/argentina-with-rebecca-walsh-oct-2025

✈️ Book Tour du Mont Blanc Aug 16-22: ...