Send us a text

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Betsy, a travel nurse and avid explorer whose journey has taken her from the beaches of Florida to the rugged peaks of California and beyond. Betsy shares how she found solace in the outdoors during the challenges of the pandemic and how hiking became her form of therapy.

We dive into some of her bucket-list adventures, including climbing Half Dome in Yosemite, hiking The Wave in Arizona, and spotting wildlife in Grand Teton National Park. She also gives us a glimpse into van life, her love for winter hiking, and her goal to explore more international trails in 2025 and also getting into backpacking.

If you love inspiring travel stories, national park adventures, and hearing about life on the road, this episode is for you!

Episode Links:
Betsy on Instagram

Protect Our National Park Service Staff

Support those impacted by the Los Angeles Wildfires.

AllTrails+
I'm excited to share that I’m now a Trailheads Ambassador for AllTrails+! If you love exploring the outdoors, AllTrails+ is your ultimate adventure companion. Get offline maps, real-time wrong-turn alerts, and trail previews to help you hike smarter and safer. Plus, with 3D maps and deeper trail insights, planning your next trek has never been easier.

Try AllTrails+ free for 7 days, and when you sign up using my referral link, you’ll get 30% off your AllTrails+ membership!

Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

Ursa Minor Outfitters - Inspired by the outdoors, Created by local artists

Go check them at www.ursaminoroutfitters.com and don’t forget to enter the promo code HikesMics10 at checkout to receive 10% off your order.

Send us a text

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we’re joined by Charles Graves, a dedicated high-pointer and global adventurer currently based in Japan. From climbing his first peak in Southern California as a kid to summiting Mount Fuji and tackling the Crown of Europe challenge, Charles shares his passion for exploring the world’s highest points—one summit at a time.

We dive into his experiences hiking across Montana’s rugged backcountry, surviving an intense failed attempt at Granite Peak, and completing the 52 Hike Challenge in some of the toughest conditions. He also shares insights into Japan’s hiking scene, from its well-marked trails to the breathtaking waterfalls of Okinawa. Plus, Charles breaks down his Asian Peak Trilogy goal and his next big adventure in Vietnam!

If you love international trekking, high-pointing, or just a good adventure story, this episode is for you!

Episode Links:
Charles' Personal Instagram
Charles' Hiking Instagram

Support those impacted by the Los Angeles Wildfires.

Support these amazing Los Angeles based hiking groups/non-profits and their efforts:
We Explore Earth
Hiking on Purpose

Send us a text

This special Valentine’s Week episode of Hikes & Mics features an incredible love story that unfolded step by step on the Pacific Crest Trail. We’re joined by returning guest Chickpea and her partner Artifact as they share their individual journeys to the PCT, their very different approaches to preparing for a thru-hike, and how a chance encounter at mile 300 led to something neither of them expected—falling in love on trail.

From hiking through the snow-covered Sierras together to surviving on the PCT diet, Chickpea and Artifact take us through the highs, lows, and unexpected twists of their PCT adventure. We also dive into life after trail, their experiences as full-time digital nomads, and their next big adventures—including a possible trek on the Camino de Santiago!

Tune in for a heartwarming, hilarious, and inspiring conversation about love, adventure, and the power of taking risks—both in the wilderness and in life.

Episode Links:
My Free 7-Day Mindset Challenge for Thru-Hiking
Chickpea's Instagram
Artifact's Instagram
Chickpea's YouTube
May Yoga Retreat in Spain!

Support those impacted by the Los Angeles Wildfires.

Support these amazing Los Angeles based hiking groups/non-profits and their efforts:
We Explore Earth
Hiking on Purpose