Words in the Wild

Books and Boulders Podcast Show Notes

Episode Title: Wild by Cheryl Strayed | Ch 15 - 19

Release Date: October 6, 2025

Welcome to this episode of Books in Boulders, where hosts Melanie and Tiffany dive into the final chapters of 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed. In this episode, they discuss Cheryl’s encounters with unsavory characters, her near-empty wallet woes, and the bittersweet end of her transformative hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. 

• 00:00 Check-Ins
• 00:03:07 Chapter 15
• 00:19:09 Chapter 16
• 00:29:11 Chapter 17
• 00: 42:21 Chapter 18
• 01:01:30 Chapter 19

• "Wild" by Cheryl Strayed (support your local library or book store)

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Books and Boulders Podcast

Episode Title: Wild by Cheryl Strayed | Ch 11 - 14

Release Date: September 22, 2025

In this episode, we dive into 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed, focusing on Part Four. Tiffany shares a personal story of facing racism while gardening, leading to a discussion on the racial biases present in outdoor spaces. The duo then delves into the challenges Cheryl Strayed faced on the PCT, from dehydration to faulty equipment and unexpected encounters. They explore Cheryl's emotional journey, her reflections on grief, loneliness, and family dynamics, as well as her moments of self-discovery and empowerment. Tune in for a rich conversation about resilience, nature, and the transformative power of adventure.

19:08 Diving into 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed

21:02 Cheryl's Misadventures on the PCT

27:24 The Struggles of Hiking Alone

50:26 Mo's Journey Through Chapter 13

50:33 The Accumulation of Trees

51:13 Cheryl's Rugged Hike

52:09 Reflections and Realizations

01:00:49 The Loss of the Boot

01:16:24 The Rainbow Gathering Disappointment

01:22:17 Encounters with Wildlife

01:24:41 Trail Magic and Self-Discovery

01:33:04 Final Thoughts and Reflections

• Wild by Cheryl Strayed (support your local library or book store)
• Hobo Times Mention in Vanity Fair
• Rattlesnake Safety Tips

• 📸 Instagram: @tiffbfirst
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Books and Boulders Podcast Show Notes

Episode Title: Wild by Cheryl Strayed | Ch 8 - 10

Release Date: September 8, 2025

In this episode of Books in Boulders, Melanie and Tiffany delve into chapters eight through ten of 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed. 

01:11 Personal Check-ins and Life Updates

11:11 Discussing 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed: Part Three

13:35 Cheryl's Journey: Challenges and Reflections

33:19 Navigating the Trail and Personal Growth

51:11 Encounters and Flashbacks

55:15 Reflecting on Childhood and Discipline

56:44 Cheryl's Journey and Encounters

58:07 Struggles and Unexpected Challenges

01:00:16 Eddie's Abandonment and Family Reflections

01:04:40 Camping Misadventures and New Connections

01:20:35 The Emotional Horse Story

01:29:52 New Hiking Companions and Predictions

01:36:43 Concluding Thoughts and Future Reads

• Wild by Cheryl Strayed (support your local library or book store)
• Rattlesnake Safety Tips

• 📸 Instagram: @tiffbfirst
• 📸 Tik Tok: @blkladyclimber
• 🎥 YouTube: Books & Boulders
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Books and Boulders Podcast Show Notes

Episode Title: Wild by Cheryl Strayed | Chapters 4 -7

Release Date: August 25, 2025

In this episode of Books in Boulders, Melanie and Tiffany delve into chapters 4 through 7 of 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed. The hosts discuss Cheryl's journey as she navigates the physical and mental challenges of the Pacific Crest Trail. They explore her encounters with wildlife, the hardships of hiking with an overloaded pack, and her interactions with fellow hikers that shape her experience. The co-hosts also reflect on Cheryl's backstory of addiction, her motivation for embarking on this journey, and her moments of self-discovery and perseverance. Join them for an engaging discussion on resilience, personal transformation, and the power of nature.

00:27 Catching Up with Melanie and Tiffany

02:34 Tiffany's Birthday Adventures

07:43 Melanie's Crack Climbing Experience

12:00 Diving into 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed

43:53 The Reality of the PCT Trail

45:16 Unexpected Encounters and Challenges

52:57 Meeting Fellow Hikers

01:12:50 Rattlesnake Encounters and Safety Tips

01:23:14 Leave No Trace and Hiking Etiquette

01:24:48 The Meaning Behind Her Name

01:27:21 Meeting Fellow Hikers and Trail Angels

01:31:32 Lightening the Load: Backpack Essentials

01:39:58 Predictions and Reflections

• Wild by Cheryl Strayed (support your local library or book store)
• Rattlesnake Safety Tips

• 📸 Instagram: @blackgirlsboulder
• 🎥 YouTube: blackgirlsboulder
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
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Books and Boulders Podcast - Show Notes

Episode Title: Wild by Cheryl Strayed | Ch 1 - 3

Release Date: August 11, 2025

In this episode of Books in Boulders, Melanie and Tiffany discuss the first part of 'Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail' by Cheryl Strayed. They explore Cheryl's profound emotional journey, starting with the devastating loss of her mother, her subsequent struggles with identity, infidelity, and her decision to embark on a grueling hike along the Pacific Crest Trail as a form of self-discovery and healing. Drawing from their own outdoor experiences, the hosts consider the logistical challenges Cheryl faced and the therapeutic aspects of adventure and nature. Join them for an engaging conversation on the intersections of grief, personal transformation, and the great outdoors.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:20 Discussing the Book: Wild by Cheryl Strayed

02:26 Tiffany's European Adventure

14:02 Melanie's Summer Plans

15:58 Deep Dive into 'Wild': Part One

41:43 Strained Relationships and Desperate Connections

43:29 Transitions and Self-Discovery

44:56 Reflections on Addiction and Healing

48:36 Preparing for the Pacific Crest Trail

56:51 Overpacking and Essential Gear

01:15:46 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

• Wild by Cheryl Strayed (support your local library or book store)

• 📸 Instagram: [@blackgirlsboulder]
• 🎥 YouTube: blackgirlsboulder
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
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Books and Boulders Podcast

Episode Title: Written in the Waters by Tara Roberts | Chapters 13 + Epilogue

Release Date: July 21, 2025

In this episode of Books in Boulders, we take you through the final chapters of 'Written in the Waters' by Tara Roberts. We recap chapter 13 and the epilogue, discussing the journey of tracing ancestral roots back to Edenton, North Carolina, and the emotional stories of the descendants of slaves from the Clotilde. We also share our personal reflections on identity, belonging, and the inspiration we've drawn from the book. Additionally, we reveal our next book choice, 'Wild' by Cheryl Strayed, and invite you to join us on the next adventure.

00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Greetings

00:41 Tiffany's France Adventure

03:51 Melanie's LA Trip and Plant Obsession

06:10 Diving into Chapter 13 Recap

12:47 Reflections on Ancestral Roots and Land Ownership

19:57 The Paradox of Cultural Appropriation

20:58 Contradictions in Historical Narratives

23:48 Personal Reflections on Identity

26:24 Discovering Ancestral Roots

28:28 Full Circle Moments and Reflections

33:08 Honoring Ancestral Wishes

38:54 Final Thoughts and Future Reads

Follow Tara on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/tararoberts_explorer/

https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/initiatives/slave-wrecks-project

Tara Roberts Website

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Books and Boulders Podcast

Episode Title: [Insert Title]

Release Date: July 7, 2025

In this episode of BB Pod, Melanie and Tiffany delve into chapters 10 through 12 of 'Written in the Waters' by Tara Roberts. They discuss the historical and emotional revelations uncovered by Tara as she explores the impact of the transatlantic slave trade on places like Costa Rica and the US Virgin Islands. From the Afropunk festival in South Africa to the rich archaeological work in St. Croix, the hosts reflect on the environmental and cultural ramifications of slavery. They also consider the complexities of identity, belonging, and the legacy of African history. Join them for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that intertwines personal discovery with historical exploration.

00:00 Check-In

13:04 Chapter 10

19:32 Chapter 11

48:14 Chapter 12

Follow Tara on Instagram

Slave Wrecks Project

• 📸 Instagram: [@blackgirlsboulder]
• 🎥 YouTube: blackgirlsboulder
• 📩 Email: [email protected]
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Books and Boulders Podcast Show Notes

Episode Title: Written in the Waters by Tara Roberts | Chapters 7 - 9

Release Date: June 23, 2025

In this episode of Books and Boulders, Melanie and Tiffany discuss chapters 7 through 9 of 'Written in the Waters.' They delve into Tara's journey through South Africa, Benin, and Togo as she grapples with her African-American identity, her ancestral roots, and the complex history of slavery and colonialism. They also reflect on the unique challenges faced by black Americans seeking to connect with Africa, dive into rich conversations about heritage tourism, and explore how Tara finds new perspectives and a sense of belonging. Join the conversation as Melanie and Tiffany break down these thought-provoking chapters, share personal insights, and discuss the powerful narratives contained within Tara's travels.

00:34 A Hair Transformation Journey

10:00 Diving into the Book Discussion

14:41 Exploring South Africa's History

17:58 The Impact of Colonialism and Apartheid

26:37 Personal Reflections and Ancestry

34:47 Global Impact of Colonialization

35:38 Ancestry and Cultural Connections

39:10 Challenging Conversations on Identity

40:44 Journey to Benin and Togo

42:00 Exploring Benin and Togo

43:40 Heritage Tourism and Ethical Dilemmas

01:10:04 The Tree of Forgetfulness and Return

01:14:24 Heritage Tourism Controversy

01:17:48 Complex Feelings and Exhaustion from Chapter Eight

01:19:25 Exploring Senegal and Cultural Connections

01:20:38 Language and Colonization in Senegal

01:22:45 Karima's Family History and Friendship

01:24:01 Challenging Perspectives on African Identity

01:26:00 The Complexity of African American Identity

01:31:29 The Disconnect Between Black Americans and Africans

Books and Boulders Podcast Show Notes

Episode Title: Written in the Waters by Tara Roberts | Chapters 4 - 6

Release Date: June 9, 2025

Welcome back, listeners! In this episode of BB Pod, we dive into chapters 4 through 6 of 'Written in the Waters' by Tara Roberts. Join us as we discuss Tara's journey from Atlanta to Mozambique, where she begins her work with the Slave Wrecks Project. We explore the historical and emotional complexities that arise in her travels, the meticulous work of excavating the past, and her encounters with the local culture. We also touch on the themes of spiritual connection, cultural identity, and the powerful legacy of African history. Tune in for a rich discussion that resonates deeply with the threads of history and personal discovery.

00:00 Checkin

09:37 Chapter 4

12:32 Chapter 5

24:04 Chapter 6

Follow Tara on Instagram

Learn about the Slave Wrecks Project

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Books and Boulders Podcast - Show Notes

Episode Title: Written in the Waters by Tara Roberts | Chapters 1 - 3

Release Date: May 26, 2025

In this episode, we dive into the first three chapters of 'Written in the Waters' by Tara Roberts. Join us as we discuss Tara's journey to learn scuba diving and her mission to explore sunken slave ships. We explore the challenges and triumphs of her path, offering insights into both the historical significance and personal growth involved in this captivating story.

01:48 Personal Check-ins and Weather Woes

03:44 Climbing Adventures and Reflections

17:52 Chapter One: Sri Lanka and Diving Preparations

29:12 Chapter Two: Thailand and Diving Challenges

36:25 Scuba Diving Reflections

37:10 Diving Challenges and Progress

39:11 Cultural Reflections and Family Ties

42:36 Career and Personal Choices

48:55 Chapter Three: A New Opportunity

49:13 Training with Diving with a Purpose

01:02:17 The Guerrero Shipwreck

• Follow Tara on Instagram
• Tara Roberts Website

• 📸 Tik Tok: Books & Boulders
• 🎥 YouTube: Books & Boulders
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