Solo (But Not Quite Alone)

Your stories of spending time solo in the outdoors. Including a bikepacker, a so-called fat hiker, an aspiring astronaut, an extrovert, two med students, and a backcountry paddler, in short - you and me.

It's been almost 2 years since we last asked you about how you adventure solo in Episode 8 of She Explores, Alone on the Trail. Gale asked for new submissions and she received more than she could squeeze into this episode, which is a great thing! It means you're getting out there.

Please keep in mind when you listen - there are inherent risks to recreating in the backcountry, whether you're with a friend or by yourself. It's always a good idea to take inventory of your limits.

In this episode, you'll hear:

• How solo time in nature opens up your headspace


• Why the listeners who submitted take time for themselves solo


• How Beth Bradley and Jessie Johnson used solo hiking to help quiet the negative body talk that went on in their heads


• Why getting outside solo isn't always a choice


• The ways in which you might be physically solo, but not quite alone while you're out there


• Why an extrovert says it's ok to find other people to adventure with


• The value of a long thru hike


• How going it solo can be empowering


• Some motivation to take the next step

Women featured in this episode:

• Sunny Stroeer: Website, Outside Online Article, Alpinist Article


• Jodi Spangler: Instagram


• Jessie Johnson: Instagram


• Beth Bradley: Watch her full story here; Instagram


• Francesca Turauskis: SeizeYourAdventure.com


• Savannah Simmons-Grover: Blog


• Natalie Izzo: Instagram


• Kathi Kamleitner: Blog


• Kristine Turner


• Emily Sehloff: Instagram


• Ashley Franklin


• Sian Proctor: Facebook and Kickstarter


• Julie Hotz: Instagram and Portfolio

Hosted by Gale Straub

Sponsors & Codes:

• Benchmark Maps: use code SHEEXPLORES for 20% off your order


• Ritual - try your first month!


• Sawyer: Enter giveaway at She-Explores.com/sawyer


• World Nomads: Check out their podcast at Worldnomads.com/podcasts

Music is by Lee Rosevere, Jason Shaw, and Smaller Tide via Free Music Archive (CC by A license)

Music is also by Fort Vine.