Paddle Like a Girl

Check out more info on the Hamilton Adventure Expo here:www.hamiltonadventureexpo.comhttps://www.instagram.com/hamiltonadventureexpoIn this episode of the Paddle Like a Girl podcast, Tori Baird interviews Breton Kennedy, co-founder of the Hamilton Adventure Expo. They discuss Breton's journey into outdoor adventure, the inspiration behind the expo, and the planning and execution of the event. Breton shares insights into the community's response, the challenges faced in the first year, and the exciting plans for the next expo, emphasizing the importance of creating a space for outdoor enthusiasts to connect and celebrate their passions. In this conversation, Breton discusses the planning and execution of the Hamilton Adventure Expo, emphasizing the importance of taking risks, selecting the right vendors, and creating an engaging experience for attendees. The conversation also highlights the significance of community support through volunteers and the exciting addition of a film festival to the event. Breton shares insights on ticketing strategies and personal preferences in outdoor activities, culminating in a light-hearted rapid-fire question segment.

Follow Becki Here:https://www.youtube.com/@beckipeckhamhttps://www.youtube.com/@BeckiandChrishttps://www.instagram.com/beckipeckhamIn this episode of the Paddle Like a Girl podcast, host Tori Baird interviews Becki Peckham, a visual storyteller and filmmaker known for her YouTube channel, Becki and Chris. They discuss Becki's journey from home renovation blogging to outdoor adventures, her experiences with solo camping, and her excitement about an upcoming canoe trip on the Teslin River. The conversation explores themes of personal growth, overcoming fears, and the challenges of content creation in the outdoor space. In this conversation, Becki and Tori explore their fears and experiences with outdoor adventures, particularly focusing on canoeing and camping. They discuss the concept of 'Nothing Epic' in content creation, emphasizing the importance of sharing relatable stories rather than only showcasing grand adventures. The conversation also touches on managing expectations, facing negativity and imposter syndrome, and breaking taboos around topics like women's experiences in the outdoors. Additionally, they share insights into DIY projects and the learning process involved in home improvement. In this conversation, Tori Baird and Becki discuss various themes surrounding DIY projects, personal growth, and the empowerment of women in traditionally male-dominated spaces. They share insights on overcoming fears related to home improvement, the importance of representation in filmmaking and outdoor adventures, and the journey of self-discovery through adventure. Becki emphasizes the need for women to feel confident in their abilities and to embrace their unique approaches to outdoor activities. The conversation also touches on the balance between inspiration and authenticity in creative endeavors, as well as future plans for adventures and projects.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Becky Peckham02:50 The Journey of a Visual Storyteller05:48 Transitioning from Home Renovation to Travel Vlogging09:04 Navigating the Challenges of Content Creation12:03 Embracing Solo Adventures in the Outdoors15:01 The Call of the Teslin River Trip18:02 Experiences in Backcountry Camping21:03 Overcoming Fears and Embracing New Experiences22:17 Fears of the Open Water24:50 Romanticizing Outdoor Adventures26:43 The Concept of 'Nothing Epic'30:47 Managing Expectations in Content Creation32:38 Facing Negativity and Imposter Syndrome36:55 Breaking Taboos in Outdoor Conversations39:35 The Journey of DIY Projects42:58 DIY Projects and Overcoming Fear46:13 Empowering Women in Male-Dominated Spaces49:12 Personal Growth Through Adventure51:09 Finding Inspiration and Staying Authentic54:08 Future Adventures and Plans

In this episode of the Paddle Like a Girl podcast, Tori Baird interviews Chelsea Murphy, an outdoor advocate and founder of She Colors Nature. Chelsea shares her journey of growing up with a love for the outdoors, the evolution of her adventures as a mother, and the importance of representation in nature. She discusses the challenges and blessings of building a community around outdoor activities, especially for Black, Indigenous, and people of color. Chelsea also reflects on her personal experiences with motherhood, the joy of winter sports, and her recent decision to cut her hair, emphasizing the importance of self-care and authenticity in her life. In this conversation, Chelsea Murphy discusses her hair journey, the intersection of femininity and short hair, and the societal pressures surrounding beauty standards. She emphasizes the importance of normalizing authenticity in social media appearances, particularly for Black women. The discussion then shifts to her experiences with brand partnerships, focusing on accountability and the challenges of aligning with brands that genuinely support diversity and inclusion. Chelsea encourages Black women to explore the outdoors, highlighting the significance of community and representation in outdoor activities. She concludes by sharing her future projects and the importance of engaging with nonprofit organizations that support marginalized communities in nature.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Chelsea Murphy and Her Mission01:15 Chelsea's Childhood and Relationship with Nature04:13 The Evolution of Outdoor Adventures06:01 The Birth of She Colors Nature08:51 Blessings and Challenges of Growing a Platform12:32 Navigating Joy and Advocacy in the Outdoors13:21 Embracing Winter Adventures with Family17:07 The Importance of Outdoor Time for Kids18:48 Redefining Outdoor Experiences20:37 Kids' Excitement for Outdoor Adventures23:00 Adapting to Changing Family Dynamics31:37 Chelsea's Hair Journey and Its Impact on Her Life36:14 Embracing Short Hair and Femininity40:16 Navigating Brand Partnerships and Accountability49:56 Encouraging Black Women to Explore the Outdoors55:37 Future Projects and Community Engagement

Follow Mercede Here: https://www.instagram.com/backcountrybabiesIn this episode of the Paddle Like a Girl podcast, Tori Baird interviews Mercedes Rogers, a professional educator and outdoor leader, about her experiences in outdoor education and canoe tripping. They discuss the importance of connecting young people with nature, the structure and benefits of canoe tripping camps, and the challenges parents face when sending their children to summer camps. Mercedes shares insights on the skills children develop through outdoor experiences, the role of camp counselors, and the significance of overcoming conflicts in group settings. The conversation also touches on financial accessibility for families seeking outdoor education opportunities. In this conversation, Mercede and Tori discuss the challenges and joys of outdoor adventures with children, emphasizing the importance of starting small, building skills, and being flexible in planning. They share personal experiences and practical tips for navigating camping and canoe tripping with kids, highlighting the need for patience, understanding, and resilience in the face of challenges. The conversation also touches on the significance of modeling positive behaviors for children and the value of outdoor experiences in their development. In this conversation, Tori Baird and Mercede discuss the challenges and joys of outdoor parenting, emphasizing the importance of connection to nature and the balance needed in family adventures. They share personal experiences of navigating outdoor trips with children, the significance of building an off-grid cabin, and the lasting memories created through these experiences. Mercede offers valuable advice for mothers looking to embrace the outdoors with their kids, highlighting the importance of community support and self-compassion in the journey of parenting.

Brookes Website: https://www.brookewhipple.com/Brookes Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girlinthewoodz/Brookes YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/alaskagirlinthewoodsIn this episode of Paddle Like a Girl, Tori Baird interviews Brooke Whipple, a filmmaker and outdoor adventurer known for her YouTube channel, Girl in the Woods, and her participation in the survival series Alone. Brooke shares her journey from a rural upbringing in Michigan to her adventurous life in Alaska, discussing her love for the outdoors, the challenges she faced on Alone, and the complexities of being a YouTuber. The conversation highlights the importance of following one's passion, the struggles of reality TV editing, and the evolving landscape of content creation. In this conversation, Brooke and Tori discuss the challenges and realities of content creation, the importance of health and wellness, and the journey of building a cabin. They explore the pressures of managing multiple channels, the physical demands of building, and the need for creativity and personal growth. The discussion emphasizes the importance of taking action, overcoming fears, and finding joy in outdoor activities.

www.bipocoutdoorgearlibrary.comwww.instagram.com/bipocoutdoorgearlibraryIn this episode of the Paddle Like a Girl podcast, Tori interviews Dionne Daley, the founder of the BIPOC Outdoor Gear Library. They discuss the library's mission to provide outdoor equipment access to Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities, aiming to reduce barriers to outdoor recreation. Dionne shares her personal journey into outdoor adventures, the challenges she faced as a minority in outdoor spaces, and the inception and operation of the Gear Library. The conversation highlights the importance of community engagement, partnerships, and the impact of the library on individuals and families seeking to connect with nature. In this conversation, Dionne Daley and Tori Baird discuss the importance of diversity in outdoor representation, the challenges and rewards of starting a gear library, and the significance of community support in outdoor activities. They share insights on navigating the non-profit registration process, building a strong board of directors, and the future goals for the gear library, including upcoming events and collaborations. The conversation emphasizes the need for innovative ideas in outdoor cooking and the importance of engaging the community to support outdoor initiatives.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the BIPOC Outdoor Gear Library03:05 Dionne's Journey into Outdoor Adventures05:52 Experiences of Being a Minority in Outdoor Spaces09:02 Inception of the Gear Library11:53 How the Gear Library Operates15:07 Challenges and Support for the Gear Library18:08 Community Engagement and Events21:07 The Impact of the Gear Library24:03 Partnerships and Brand Collaborations29:47 Diversity in Outdoor Representation31:12 Starting a Gear Library: Tips and Advice33:39 Navigating Non-Profit Registration35:14 Building a Strong Board of Directors38:04 Community Building in Outdoor Spaces39:42 Future Goals for the Gear Library40:54 Upcoming Events and Collaborations43:05 Engaging the Community for Support46:53 Innovative Outdoor Cooking Ideas51:15 Connecting with the BIPOC Outdoor Gear Library

In this episode of the Paddle Like a Girl podcast, Tori Baird interviews Sarah Mills, the marketing manager at Nova Craft Canoe. They discuss the history and evolution of Nova Craft, the unique aspects that set it apart in the canoeing industry, and the various types of canoes available. Sarah shares her passion for the outdoors and the importance of supporting organizations that promote access to nature. The conversation also delves into the factors to consider when choosing a canoe, including materials and design, and offers recommendations for different paddling scenarios. In this conversation, Tori Baird and Sara discuss various aspects of canoeing, including how to choose the right canoe, maintenance tips, and the importance of materials. They delve into customization options, the significance of tracking ability, and share personal paddling experiences. Sara also offers advice for women starting their paddling journey and highlights where to find more information about NovaCraft.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nova Craft Canoe and Sarah Mills02:59 Sarah's Role and Passion at Nova Craft06:04 The History and Evolution of Nova Craft Canoe09:02 What Sets Nova Craft Apart in the Canoeing Industry11:57 Adapting to Changes in the Paddling Industry15:09 Understanding Canoe Types: The Prospector and More18:14 Choosing the Right Canoe: Materials and Activities20:50 Recommendations for Different Paddling Scenarios27:22 Choosing the Right Canoe for Your Adventure30:01 Canoe Maintenance and Care Tips34:26 Understanding Canoe Materials and Their Benefits37:15 Testing and Renting Canoes Before Purchase39:05 Customization Options for Your Canoe40:48 Sara's Paddling Journey and Favorite Canoe43:15 The Importance of Tracking Ability in Canoes45:49 Memorable Paddling Experiences and Future Aspirations50:43 Advice for Women Starting Their Paddling Journey52:03 Where to Find More Information on NovaCraft

In this episode of Paddle Like a Girl, Tori Baird interviews Brittany Richards, co-founder of Freak of Nature Co., an outdoor-inspired brand specializing in handcrafted leather goods. Brittany shares her journey from hunting to leatherworking, the challenges of balancing her paramedic career with her creative pursuits, and the evolution of her brand. The conversation delves into the intricacies of running a small business, the importance of sustainability, and the unique challenges faced by women in traditionally male-dominated crafts. In this conversation, Brittany shares her two-year journey of trying to conceive, discussing the emotional and physical challenges she faces, including the impact of stress and hormonal imbalances. Tori and Brittany explore the importance of support and listening during difficult times, as well as the challenges of navigating social media while dealing with personal struggles. They also touch on the joy of reconnecting with nature and the importance of balancing work and personal life, ultimately redefining their expectations for content creation. In this engaging conversation, Tori Baird and Brittany discuss the challenges of content creation, the joy of outdoor adventures, and the importance of self-sufficiency in the wilderness. Brittany shares her memorable experiences in backcountry paddling and the transition from hunting to outdoor exploration. They also touch on dream trips, advice for aspiring adventurers, and exciting collaborations in Brittany's leather work business. The conversation wraps up with rapid-fire questions that reveal personal preferences and insights into their adventurous lifestyles.

Find Carlie here:www.instagram.com/withlove_duquetteswww.withloveduquettes.comIn this episode, Tori interviews Carlie Duquette, an adventure enthusiast and mother who shares her family's outdoor experiences. Carlie discusses her journey into outdoor adventures, the importance of exposing children to nature, and the balance between family activities and personal time. She emphasizes the value of embracing imperfection in outdoor experiences and the impact of mental health on parenting. Carlie also shares insights on navigating social media, learning from mishaps during adventures, and encourages others to embrace the outdoors. The conversation concludes with Carlie's future adventure goals and advice for mothers.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Carly Duquette and Her Journey02:34 Embracing the Outdoors as a Family05:21 The Importance of Outdoor Experiences for Kids07:56 Balancing Family Adventures and Personal Time10:13 The Reality of Outdoor Adventures12:35 Mental Health and Transparency in Parenting14:40 Navigating Social Media and Mental Health17:13 Lessons from Outdoor Adventures24:09 The Great Key Adventure29:08 Overcoming Outdoor Intimidation36:35 Embracing Adventure and Authenticity43:02 Connecting Through Camping and Community

Find Kristy Here:www.instagram.com/accessible.adventureswww.accessibleadventures.netIn this episode of Paddle Like a Girl, Tori Baird speaks with Kristy Cook, founder of Accessible Adventures, about her journey as a mother of a child with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Kristy shares insights on navigating medical care, the importance of outdoor adventures, and how they have transformed her family's life. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with special needs, the significance of community support, and the joy of exploring accessible travel options. Kristy emphasizes the healing power of nature and the need for families to embrace adventure, regardless of physical limitations. In this conversation, Tori Baird and Kristy Cook discuss the complexities of parenting children with special needs, focusing on family dynamics, emotional challenges, and the importance of community support. They share personal experiences regarding family planning, sibling relationships, and the emotional weight of caregiving. Kristy offers practical tips for accessible travel and emphasizes the need for advocacy in creating inclusive environments. The discussion also touches on future plans for accessible adventures and the importance of sharing resources within the community.00:00 Introduction to Christy Cook and Accessible Adventures01:44 Understanding Robbie's Diagnosis and Journey07:49 Navigating Medical Care and Insurance Challenges11:02 Seizure Management and Quality of Life14:55 Balancing Caregiving and Family Dynamics18:31 The Impact of Outdoor Adventures on Happiness22:40 The RV Adventure Begins25:41 Creating Accessible Adventures28:32 Building a Community for Families30:25 Therapy on the Road36:04 The Importance of Nature and Adventure39:00 Exploring National Parks Together40:17 Navigating Family Decisions After a Diagnosis43:24 The Impact of Sibling Relationships on Caregiving46:48 Emotional Challenges and Support for Siblings48:28 Accessible Travel Tips for Families55:22 Empowering Women in Outdoor Communities56:33 Future Goals for Accessible Adventures01:02:12 Creating Inclusive Spaces for All01:03:31 The Importance of Resource Sharing01:05:50 Navigating Accessibility Challenges01:08:04 Financial Planning for Disability Needs01:10:11 Embracing Adventure While Preparing for the Future01:13:10 Connecting with the Community01:14:17 Rapid Fire Fun Questions

Follow Cobi Here: https://www.instagram.com/sparkadventurephotog/Check out her website here:https://www.sparkadventurephotog.com/In this engaging conversation, Tori Baird interviews Cobi Sharpe, an award-winning photographer and founder of Spark Adventure Photography Workshops. Cobi shares her journey from wedding photography to wildlife and adventure photography, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and connection to nature in her workshops. They discuss the challenges faced by women in the outdoor photography space, the role of nature in mental health, and the empowerment that comes from adventure. Cobi also highlights the significance of representation in outdoor activities and the impact of motherhood on her perspective. The conversation concludes with practical advice for aspiring photographers and insights into Cobi's upcoming workshops.

Follow Ann Here: https://www.instagram.com/its_ann_callingIn this engaging conversation, Tori Baird interviews Anne, an outdoor enthusiast and content creator, about her journey into the world of camping, fishing, and the outdoors. They discuss Anne's transition from powerlifting to outdoor activities, her experiences with ice fishing, and the importance of community and representation in outdoor spaces. Anne shares her insights on content creation, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the joy of inspiring others through her relatable and humorous approach to outdoor adventures.Find Ann at @its_ann_calling on InstagramYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@unpluggedadventuringTikTok: @its_ann_calling

Follow Michelle here: https://www.instagram.com/thewimpycamper/In this engaging conversation, Tori Baird interviews Michelle, known as The Wimpy Camper, who shares her journey from being a self-described nerdy city girl to embracing bushcraft and outdoor activities. Michelle discusses the importance of authenticity in social media, the representation of diverse individuals in outdoor spaces, and the supportive community she has built through her content. They explore family backgrounds in outdoor experiences, the challenges of solo camping, and the significance of personal growth and confidence in the outdoors. Michelle offers valuable advice for beginners and reflects on her future goals while maintaining a balance between content creation and personal enjoyment.Chapters00:00Introduction to Michelle and Her Journey02:34The Transition from City Girl to Bushcrafter04:59Inspiration from Survivor Man and Personal Growth07:31The Evolution of Online Presence and Representation11:16Building Community and Friendships Online12:47Family Background and Outdoor Experiences18:49Solo Camping Experiences and Overcoming Fears21:27Defining Outdoor Experiences and Personal Growth23:56Embracing Authenticity in Content Creation24:38Balancing Personal Branding and Audience Expectations26:59Navigating the Vain Perception of Influencing29:08Imposter Syndrome in Outdoor Activities33:20Reconnecting with Passion and Enjoyment34:47Practical Advice for Outdoor Beginners36:10Rapid Fire Fun Questions

Follow Emily Here: https://www.instagram.com/emilywhoexploresCheck out her website here:https://emilywhoexplores.com/In this engaging conversation, Tori Baird interviews Emily Gillespie, a content marketer and outdoor enthusiast, about her journey from starting an e-commerce business to becoming a full-time entrepreneur in the outdoor and travel marketing space. Emily shares insights on her experiences, the challenges of self-employment, and the importance of building a personal brand. The discussion also covers practical tips for content creation, managing social media, and recommendations for outdoor adventures, making it a valuable resource for aspiring creators and outdoor lovers alike.Chapters00:00Introduction to Emily Gillespie00:50Emily's Journey into Content Marketing05:20Transitioning to Full-Time Entrepreneurship09:23Balancing Work and Travel13:12Building a Personal Brand15:50The Evolution of Professional Relationships20:49Tools for Organization and Content Creation23:35Future Goals and Digital Products26:13Quality vs. Quantity in Content Creation29:55Managing Social Media Consumption32:13The Impact of Social Media Algorithms33:32Content Creation Essentials for Beginners35:51Adventurous Hiking Experiences41:24Canoeing Adventures and Recommendations48:14Getting Started in the Outdoors53:06Favorite Outdoor Meals and Preferences

Join host Tori Baird, founder of Paddle Like a Girl, as she sits down with inspiring, influential, and downright badass women and folks who are breaking barriers and leading the way in the outdoors. From adventurers and athletes to guides and trailblazers, each episode dives into their journeys, challenges, and triumphs, offering insight, inspiration, and practical advice for anyone looking to embrace the wild. Tori also shares her own experiences—lessons learned from the water, the woods, and the winding path of outdoor exploration. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just beginning your journey, this podcast will ignite your passion for the outdoors and empower you to carve your own path. Get ready to paddle, climb, hike, and explore—because the wilderness is for everyone.