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Malorie Soulier & L.D. Carter: Finding Your Tribe Outdoors What is it really like to join an LGBTQ Outdoors Adventure Trip? In this episode, Justin and Patrick sits down with Malorie Soulier and L.D. Carter to reflect on their experience on the Yellowstone and Grand Teton Wildlife Adventure Trip. From the nerves of signing up for your first trip to the excitement of seeing moose, grizzlies, and bison in the wild, they talk about what makes these trips special. They also share how LGBTQ Outdoors creates an environment where people can take things at their own pace, build community, and feel like they belong. In This Episode:  How Malorie and L.D. first discovered LGBTQ Outdoors through Pride events  Malorie's experience in the Dallas LGBTQ Outdoors community and her new role as an Ambassador Event Coordinator  How seeing the LGBTQ Outdoors banner at Frisco Pride helped L.D. find his people  How pre-trip Zoom calls help participants feel comfortable and prepared  Malorie's unforgettable experience seeing a mama moose and two calves  L.D.'s favorite Yellowstone moment: watching bison in their natural environment  How local guides add history, ecology, and conservation knowledge to the experience  The importance of flexibility, rest days, and going at your own pace  Challenges with altitude, especially for participants coming from lower elevations  How guided trips can change the experience of visiting a park you've been to before  Advice for anyone considering their first LGBTQ Outdoors Adventure Trip  A look at the Trailblazers Society and how you can support LGBTQ Outdoors Get Involved with LGBTQ Outdoors Want to find your own tribe outdoors? There are lots of ways to get involved with LGBTQ Outdoors: Explore upcoming events and Adventure Trips: https://www.lgbtqoutdoors.com/ Find a local chapter or connect with an Ambassador: LGBTQ Outdoors has chapters and events across the country, and you don't have to be a chapter member to attend.  Become an Ambassador: Help create welcoming outdoor experiences for LGBTQIA+ people in your community.  Join the Trailblazers Society: Become a monthly supporter and help LGBTQ Outdoors continue creating inclusive outdoor experiences.  Subscribe to the newsletter: Stay up to date on upcoming events, Adventure Trips, programs, and LGBTQ Outdoors news.  Listen, subscribe, and leave a review: If you enjoyed this episode, help us spread the word by subscribing to the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast and leaving a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Connect with us: Follow LGBTQ Outdoors on social media and join the conversation.  You don't have to be an experienced adventurer to get started. You just have to show up. Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

In this episode, we sit down with Benji Zecher, a queer Pacific Northwest-based educator and naturalist, to talk about their journey into ocean conservation, freediving, and outdoor education. Benji shares how the ocean became both a teacher and a refuge, and how connecting with nature can support mental health, build community, and inspire us to become better stewards of the places we love. We also explore the importance of representation in environmental and outdoor spaces, the role of Indigenous stewardship, and how challenging colonial ideas about conservation can create more inclusive and connected relationships with nature. In This Episode, We Talk About: Benji's journey from landscape architecture to ocean conservation and stewardshipHow freediving has shaped their relationship with the oceanThe mental health benefits of spending time in nature and the waterWhy queer and Indigenous representation matters in conservationThe ocean as a place of refuge, learning, and connectionWhat applied freediving means and its cultural significanceHow colonial ideas have shaped environmental and queer spacesThe role of harvesting and stewardship in maintaining healthy ecosystemsBuilding more inclusive outdoor and environmental communitiesWhy representation can help more people see themselves as part of the conservation movementConnect With LGBTQ Outdoors Get outside with us! LGBTQ Outdoors creates inclusive opportunities for LGBTQIA+ people and allies to connect with nature, build community, and explore together. Join the Community: Visit LGBTQOutdoors.com to learn more about our events, Adventure Trips, ambassadors, and ways to get involved. Become a Trailblazer: Support LGBTQ Outdoors year-round by joining the Trailblazers Society, our monthly giving community. Your support helps us create more opportunities for LGBTQIA+ people to experience the outdoors. Enjoying the Podcast? Help us spread the word! Rate, review, and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps other people discover the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast. Follow LGBTQ Outdoors: Stay connected with us on social media for upcoming events, outdoor adventures, stories, and more. Support Our Work: Your support helps us continue creating welcoming outdoor spaces and breaking down barriers to outdoor recreation for the LGBTQIA+ community. Get outside. Find your people. Be yourself. Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

Celebrating Pride and Authenticity with Chris Housman This Pride Month, we sit down with queer country artist Chris Housman to talk about growing up in a small rural town in Kansas, coming out in a small community, and finding the courage to live authentically. Chris shares how both music and the outdoors have played an important role in his journey, and how his groundbreaking song "Blue Neck" is helping challenge stereotypes while creating space for greater LGBTQ+ visibility in country music. In this episode, we discuss:  Chris's upbringing in a small Kansas town and his experience growing up LGBTQ+  The role of music and nature in healing, self-discovery, and authentic self-expression  The inspiration behind Blue Neck and its impact on country music and LGBTQ+ representation  How community, exposure, and visibility can help foster acceptance and belonging  The future of country music and the importance of embracing diversity, authenticity, and new voices Whether you're a country music fan, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone navigating your own path toward authenticity, this conversation is a powerful reminder that there is strength in being exactly who you are. Connect with Chris: Chris Hausman - Official WebsiteChris Hausman on InstagramChris Hausman on TikTokNote: This episode celebrates Pride and encourages everyone to embrace their authentic selves. Remember, you're never alone in your journey. Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

Pride Month Special: Celebrating Queer Nature with Nova West This Pride Month, we’re joined by Nova West (they/them), a National Geographic Explorer, underwater cinematographer, and visual storyteller exploring the connection between queerness and the natural world. In this episode, Nova shares how their work in wildlife media and deep sea exploration has helped challenge the harmful idea that queerness is “unnatural.” From documented queer behavior in over 1,500 species to the importance of authentic representation both behind and in front of the camera, this conversation dives into the beauty, complexity, and diversity already present in nature. We also talk about identity, storytelling, visibility, and the power of creating spaces where LGBTQ+ people can fully be themselves — outdoors and beyond. This episode is a reminder that queer people have always belonged in nature because queerness has always existed in nature. In This Episode Nova’s journey into underwater cinematography and wildlife storytellingWhat it means to be a National Geographic ExplorerQueer behavior documented across more than 1,500 speciesWhy representation in nature media mattersChallenging stereotypes through authentic storytellingThe realities and challenges of wildlife filmmaking and explorationCommunity-centered projects including Brave Trails and Deep as Our RootsFinding belonging, identity, and connection through the outdoorsAbout Nova West Nova West (they/them) is a National Geographic Explorer, cinematographer, photographer, and creative focused on telling stories at the intersection of wildlife, science, identity, and conservation. Their work explores how representation can reshape the way we understand both nature and ourselves. Resources & Links Nova West WebsiteInstagram: @novawestBrave Trails LGBTQ+ Youth CampDeep as Our Roots (upcoming project)Breck Pride Events with LGBTQ Outdoors We also highlight a few upcoming Pride events happening in Breckenridge, Colorado in partnership with LGBTQ Outdoors: Vendor Fair https://www.lgbtqoutdoors.com/events/rebecca06122026Half Day Hike https://www.lgbtqoutdoors.com/events/soich06122026Group Bike Ride https://www.lgbtqoutdoors.com/events/chapin06132026Connect with LGBTQ Outdoors Website: LGBTQOutdoors.com Instagram: @lgbtqoutdoors If this episode resonated with you, consider sharing it with a friend, leaving a review, or supporting LGBTQ Outdoors by helping us continue creating inclusive outdoor spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community. Happy Pride Month, and remember: you belong outside. Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

Breaking Barriers in Fly Fishing: The Journey of J. Michelle SwopeIn this episode of the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast, hosts Justin Yoder and Patrick Thompson sit down with J. Michelle Swope to talk about her journey into fly fishing, what it means to create more inclusive spaces in the outdoors, and the importance of representation in the fly fishing community. Michelle shares her experiences as a queer woman in the industry, the work she is doing through her fly shop and guide service, and how events like the Roslyn Riffle are helping build connection, confidence, and community for anglers of all backgrounds. The conversation also dives into conservation, mentorship, and why creating welcoming outdoor spaces matters. In This Episode  Michelle’s journey into fly fishing and guiding  Representation and inclusivity in the fly fishing world  Building community through outdoor experiences  Conservation and protecting outdoor spaces  Details about the upcoming Roslyn Riffle 2026 event Resources Crow Creek Fly Shop and Guide ServiceUnited Women on the FlyiFish I BelongRoslyn Riffle 2026 EventLGBTQ OutdoorsConnect with J. Michelle Swope Instagram @jmichelle.swopeCrow Creek Fly Shop WebsiteStay Connected Be sure to sign up for the LGBTQ Outdoors newsletter on our homepage at LGBTQ Outdoors to stay informed about upcoming events, podcast episodes, community stories, and opportunities to get involved. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast. Ratings and reviews help more people discover the show, expand conversations around LGBTQ+ inclusion in the outdoors, and support the growth of this community. Keywords Fly fishing, LGBTQ Outdoors, inclusivity, representation, conservation, queer outdoors, women in fly fishing, community building, Roslyn Riffle, outdoor leadership, fly fishing guide, LGBTQ community Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

Hiking for Visibility: Ryan Schepers’ Appalachian Trail Journey for LGBTQ+ Inclusion Summary Join us as Ryan Schepers shares his journey of discovering his queerness through nature, his path in environmental science, and his upcoming Appalachian Trail hike to raise awareness and support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the outdoors. This conversation explores how curiosity, community, and authenticity can shape our lives—and inspire others to get outside and be fully themselves. Key Topics  Ryan’s background in environmental science and cellular biology  The intersection of queerness and the natural world  The importance of community and representation in outdoor spaces  Ryan’s Appalachian Trail hike and fundraising efforts  How curiosity and exploration fuel personal growth Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast  01:32 – Ryan’s connection to nature  03:53 – Growing up in Ohio and early outdoor experiences  09:08 – Curiosity and exploration in nature  11:25 – Education and career in environmental science  14:51 – Adventure, biking, and community engagement  17:57 – Plant science and ecosystem restoration  18:18 – Queerness in nature  20:58 – Personal coming out journey  23:29 – Community and self-discovery  26:30 – Connecting identity and the outdoors  29:22 – Preparing for the Appalachian Trail  32:14 – Representation in outdoor spaces  34:55 – Encouraging others to explore nature  37:58 – Fundraising for LGBTQ Outdoors  41:04 – Final thoughts and call to action Support Ryan’s Fundraiser Ryan is hiking the Appalachian Trail to support LGBTQ Outdoors and increase visibility in outdoor spaces.  👉 Donate here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/ryan-schepers-hiking-fundraiser Resources  LGBTQ Outdoors: https://lgbtqoutdoors.com  Trailblazers Society: https://lgbtqoutdoors.com/trailblazer  Ryan Schepers on Instagram: https://instagram.com/lumberjerk Keywords LGBTQ outdoors, Appalachian Trail, environmental science, queer identity, outdoor community, LGBTQ+ visibility, hiking fundraiser, nature exploration, diversity in the outdoors, outdoor advocacy Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

Celebrating Poetry, Queer Outdoors, and Community—An Interview with Poet Patrick Ramsay. Join us for an inspiring episode where we explore the intersection of poetry, environmental advocacy, and queer identity through the eyes of Utah-based poet Patrick Ramsay. Discover how passion for nature and queerness can be powerful catalysts for connection, resilience, and hope. Main topics include: The role of poetry in activism and advocacy for the Great Salt LakeThe importance of inclusive outdoor spaces and community-buildingThe transformative power of art and community for queer identities in natureStrategies for urban and rural LGBTQ folks to connect with the outdoorsThe founding and impact of Wright Club, a community for writersPersonal stories of coming out, safety, and finding sanctuary in natureResources & Links: Butterflies Are Rare in Beehives - Patrick Ramsey’s debut chapbookLGBTQ Outdoors - Community organization and event infoConnect with Patrick Ramsay: InstagramJoin us in celebrating the power of poetry, community, and outdoor connection—because everyone deserves a safe space to be seen, heard, and loved. Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

Summary Justin Yoder and Patrick Thompson share a comprehensive update on LGBTQ Outdoors, including recent Pride events, adventure trips, and exciting plans for 2026. They discuss the importance of building inclusive outdoor spaces, expanding community connections, and the organization’s continued growth. The conversation highlights upcoming programs, including LGBTQ Outdoorfest and new adventure trips, while encouraging listeners to get involved and explore the outdoors. Keywords LGBTQ Outdoors, outdoor adventures, Pride events, community building, nonprofit organization, adventure trips, 2026 plans, inclusivity, outdoor festivals, national parks Key Topics Organizational growth and leadership updates for 2026Recap of 2025 Pride events and Adventure TripsUpcoming LGBTQ Outdoorfest and 2026 Adventure TripsCommunity building and inclusivity in outdoor spacesOrganizational funding, sponsorships, and volunteer effortsHosts Justin Yoder and Patrick Thompson Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Updates  02:42 Pride Month Reflections  05:37 Adventure Trips Recap  11:26 LGBTQ Outdoorfest Highlights  17:26 2026 Adventure Trips Preview  28:05 Organizational Changes and Future Plans Resources Alaska Adventure Trip Podcast – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9jKf1DOp_k LGBTQ Outdoors Website – https://lgbtqoutdoors.com LGBTQ Outdoors YouTube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/@LGBTQOutdoors Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

In this special episode of the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast, hosts Justin Yoder, Patrick Thompson, and Justin Bickley record from the heart of Alaska during LGBTQ Outdoors’ sold-out adventure trip. With mountains, rivers, and buzzing flies all around, they reflect on days filled with packrafting, glacier hikes, and icy cold plunges. The group shares laughs, lessons, and the unique power of building queer community in wild spaces. From safety and accessibility to pizza nights in the backcountry, this episode captures the magic of connection, courage, and belonging in the outdoors. Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

In this inspiring episode of the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast, hosts Justin Yoder and Special Guest Co-Host Justin Bikley sit down in the Oregon forest with Brew Dr. Kombucha founder Matt Thomas to celebrate a new partnership rooted in shared values: inclusivity, sustainability, and community. The episode explores Matt’s journey from launching tea houses to building one of the largest organic kombucha brands in the U.S., all while staying true to his mission of environmental responsibility and radical acceptance. Through laughter, reflection, and powerful storytelling, the conversation underscores the importance of visibility, representation, and the power of choosing to do business differently—for people and planet. Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

In this heartfelt and energizing episode, hosts Justin Yoder and Patrick Thompson welcome Amanda Benson, a solo RVer, emergency management expert, and founder of Dusty Trail RV. Amanda shares her story of leaving behind a life of firefighting and personal upheaval to embrace the freedom and unpredictability of life on the road. From building out her RV and navigating challenges as a queer woman in a male-dominated space, to advocating for safety, self-reliance, and mental well-being, Amanda offers practical insight and powerful perspective. Her passion for empowering others through education and community shines throughout, making this episode a celebration of resilience, adventure, and the power of saying “yes.” Website/Blog: https://www.dustytrailrv.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dustytrailrv Instagram: @dustytrailrv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dustytrailrv Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

In this inspiring episode of the LGBTQ Outdoors podcast, hosts Justin Yoder and Patrick Thompson kick things off with exciting updates about LGBTQ Outdoor Fest and the 100 Mile Club, before diving into a deeply personal and impactful conversation with their guest, Joe Toolan. As the Justicia y Equidad Fund Director at Green Latinos, Joe shares his incredible journey—from his adoption from Guatemala to becoming a passionate advocate for environmental justice and LGBTQ rights. Joe openly discusses his experiences growing up in a conservative Latino household and the challenges he faced coming out, emphasizing why visibility and representation are so important in both LGBTQ and environmental spaces. He highlights how his connection to nature has shaped his identity and offers thoughtful insights into the powerful work being done at Green Latinos, particularly around Earth Day and community engagement. The conversation also explores timely topics like ensuring safety at Pride events amidst growing challenges and the critical role outdoor access plays for marginalized communities. Joe wraps up by offering heartfelt advice to LGBTQ youth who want to pursue environmental activism, encouraging them to find supportive networks, get involved locally, and embrace their unique voice in the fight for equity and sustainability. Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

In this heartwarming and inspiring episode, Justin and Patrick welcome back two beloved members of the LGBTQ Outdoors family—Brad Ryan and Grandma Joy of Grandma Joy’s Road Trip. Brad and Grandma Joy share how their incredible journey began with a simple camping trip in the Great Smoky Mountains, and how that first "yes" sparked a life-changing adventure that’s taken them to all 63 U.S. National Parks and beyond. The conversation dives deep into the importance of saying “yes” to new experiences, breaking age-related stereotypes, and building meaningful intergenerational relationships. Brad and Grandma Joy talk about some of their most memorable travels, including their unforgettable trip to Antarctica, the lessons they've learned from visiting Kenya, and the profound impact of witnessing humanity and joy in every corner of the world. They also share their excitement about returning to LGBTQ Outdoor Fest this year, offering listeners a chance to connect with them in person. This episode is a reminder that adventure has no age limit, and it’s never too late to get outside, connect with nature, and strengthen the bonds of family and community. Follow Brad & Grandma Joy’s journey: Instagram: @grandmajoysroadtrip For more information about LGBTQ Outdoors events and how to join our Trailblazer Society, visit lgbtoutdoors.com. Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

Get ready for an episode packed with adventure, laughs, and all the details on our incredible LGBTQ Outdoors trips for 2025! Hosts Justin Yoder and Patrick Thompson are joined by trip leaders and special guests to break down what makes each adventure unique—whether you’re dreaming of hiking through the Grand Canyon, packrafting in Alaska, or casting a line in Broken Bow. We also dive into LGBTQ Outdoorfest, which is shaping up to be our biggest and best yet! With record-breaking early registrations, it’s clear that people are eager to connect, celebrate, and explore together. If you haven’t signed up yet, now’s the time—spots are filling up fast! But that’s just the beginning. This episode gives you the inside scoop on each adventure trip, including what to expect, who these trips are best suited for, and why you won’t want to miss out. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just starting your journey, there’s something here for you. If you’ve been looking for the perfect way to get outside, challenge yourself, and meet like-minded adventurers, this is your sign to take the leap! Upcoming LGBTQ Outdoors Adventure Trips for 2025: Grand Canyon – Led by Oded Wilson & Sam Troi, this trip explores one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Hike, learn, and experience the magic of the canyon. Broken Bow Fly Fishing – Josh McNabb & Justin Yoder leads this relaxing, skill-building trip in the beautiful waters of Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Beginners and seasoned anglers welcome! Alaska Packrafting & Hiking – This trip is already full (waitlist available!), but it’s an unforgettable adventure with options for packrafting or hiking in the rugged Alaskan wilderness. Glacier National Park – Led by Justin Yoder & Cherie Bélanger, this trip combines hiking and outdoor education with some of the most stunning scenery in the U.S. Great Smoky Mountains – Brad Ryan & Oded Wilson guide this adventure-packed trip featuring hiking, rafting, zip-lining, and more in America’s most-visited national park. Each of these trips is designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and supportive—so whether you're looking for a hardcore challenge or a chill nature escape, we've got something for you. Ready to join? Head to lgbtqoutdoors.com to learn more and sign up before spots are gone! And don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more stories, trip highlights, and community spotlights. Adventure is calling—who’s in?  Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

In this episode, Justin and Patrick sit down with outdoor photographer and storyteller Tommy Corey to discuss his journey in capturing diverse representation in the outdoors. Tommy shares the inspiration behind his new book, All Humans Outside, which features stories of people from all walks of life and their unique connections to nature. From his early influences (including Oprah!) to his adventures hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, Tommy reveals how curiosity, empathy, and storytelling drive his work. The conversation also touches on the importance of belonging in the LGBTQ+ community, challenging stereotypes about queer people in the outdoors, and how we can all take small steps to connect with nature—whether it’s climbing a mountain or simply sitting on a park bench. Where to Get Tommy’s Book: All Humans Outside is available for pre-order now and will be released on May 1st, 2024.Order at Barnes & Noble or through Mountaineers Books.Skip Amazon if you can—support independent bookstores!Follow Tommy Corey: Website: TommyCorey.comInstagram: @twerkinthedirtStay Connected with LGBTQ Outdoors: Website: LGBTQOutdoors.comInstagram: @lgbtqoutdoorsJoin a local chapter, sign up for adventure trips, and be part of the community!Help support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.