Just Hyke: For Women Who Are Ready to Hike Their Way to Strength, Confidence, and Adventure

Melanie @ Just Hyke

For Women Who Are Ready to Hike Their Way to Strength, Confidence, and Adventure Welcome to the Just Hyke Podcast—where women over 40 rediscover their power, one trail at a time. Hosted by Melanie Michaelchuk, certified personal trainer, hiking coach, and Kilimanjaro summiteer, this podcast is your go-to resource for outdoor adventure, functional fitness, and mindset growth. Whether you’re lacing up your hiking boots for the first time or chasing bucket list summits, each episode offers practical tips, inspiring trail stories, and interviews with women who are breaking boundaries and blazing trails—literally and figuratively. Topics include: Hiking training and fitness over 40Outdoor gear and trail tips for beginners and seasoned hikersMental resilience and motivationWellness, recovery, and self-care for active womenInterviews with hikers, health pros, and adventure seekersIt’s never too late to start your hiking journey. Subscribe, download, and Just Hyke with us! Learn more at www.justhyke.com #JustHykePodcast #WomenWhoHike #HikingOver40 #OutdoorFitness #TrailLife #AdventureAwaits #StrongWomenOver40 #MidlifeAdventure

See All
  1. Trail Confidence Starts Before the Trail – Self-Defense & Awareness with Tisha Butler

    Episode 1

    Trail Confidence Starts Before the Trail – Self-Defense & Awareness with Tisha Butler

    In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie talks with women’s self-defense and martial arts instructor Tisha Butler about building confidence through awareness, preparation, and trusting your instincts. They discuss why situational awareness matters more than physical strength, how intuition helps you recognize potential danger early, and common myths around self-defense for women—especially on the trail. This empowering conversation is a must-listen for women who hike, walk, or travel solo and want to feel prepared without living in fear. Mentioned in this episode: The Gift of Fear by Gavin de Becker Link: Find it on Amazon HereUpcoming Event: Trail Safety & Self-Defense Workshop – January 17 Register here: Trail Safety & Self-Defense Workshop – Just Hyke About Tisha Butler Tisha Butler is a women’s self-defense and martial arts instructor specializing in situational awareness, confidence-building, and real-world safety strategies. Her background includes Krav Maga, Taekwondo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with a focus on helping women feel prepared—not fearful—on and off the trail.

    30 min
  2. Hiking for Wellness in Nova Scotia: Self-Care, Nature & the Bay of Fundy

    Episode 2

    Hiking for Wellness in Nova Scotia: Self-Care, Nature & the Bay of Fundy

    Guest: Deborah Peddle-Hann — Founder, Journey2Wellness.ca Host: Melanie Michaelchuk, CPT-NASM | Just Hyke Holistic wellness, nature-based movement, mindset, and hiking in Nova Scotia and the Canadian Maritime provinces In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie sits down with Deborah Peddle-Hann, founder of Journey2Wellness.ca, to explore how hiking for wellness in Nova Scotia supports physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Deborah shares her personal wellness journey and how reconnecting with nature—especially through hiking—became a powerful form of self-care, stress relief, and nervous system regulation. Together, they discuss hiking throughout Nova Scotia and the Canadian Maritime provinces, highlighting coastal trails, accessible outdoor adventures, and the grounding energy of time spent near the ocean. This is a Sidewalk to Summit conversation about moving your body, reconnecting with nature, and redefining wellness—one hike at a time. What You’ll Learn How hiking supports physical, mental, and emotional wellnessWhy Nova Scotia is ideal for hiking experiencesThe stress-reducing benefits of coastal hiking and ocean airWhy women often deprioritize their wellness—and how to shift thatHow small, intentional steps lead to long-term transformationThe connection between mindset, boundaries, and sustainable self-careDestinations & Topics Discussed Nova Scotia hiking trailsCanadian Maritime provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI)Nature as a tool for grounding, clarity, and healingWalking and hiking as accessible wellness practicesNotable Quotes “Wellness isn’t about pushing harder—it’s about tuning in.” “Nature has a way of resetting us when we give ourselves permission to slow down.” “Every journey—on the trail or in life—starts with one intentional step.” Connect with Deborah Peddle-Hann Wellness: https://journey2wellness.caHealthy Hiking: https://healthyhiking.caYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hikewithdebFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/journey2wellnessConnect with Just Hyke Book available on Amazon: Sidewalk to SummitListen & Subscribe: Just Hyke Podcast (Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube)Newsletter & free trail resources: JustHyke.comFollow Just Hyke for hiking inspiration, trail safety, and wellness resources for women. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the Just Hyke Podcast. Because every summit—physical or personal—starts on the sidewalk.

    59 min
  3. From Antarctica to the Allegheny Trail: World Travel, FKTs & Finding Stillness with Kim Selvage (muon2020 ✈️TravelWithKim&MuoN🚗)

    Episode 3

    From Antarctica to the Allegheny Trail: World Travel, FKTs & Finding Stillness with Kim Selvage (muon2020 ✈️TravelWithKim&MuoN🚗)

    In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie is joined by world traveler and endurance athlete Kim Selvage (@Muon2020) for an inspiring conversation about global adventures, goal setting, and finding meaning in both movement and stillness. From international travel to trail achievements, Kim reflects on the highs, challenges, and lessons that come with pushing personal boundaries — including her Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the Allegheny Trail, a route that connects into the Appalachian Trail. The conversation also explores the awe and silence of Antarctica, and how time in extreme and remote environments can shift perspective, build resilience, and deepen our connection to nature. Topics We Cover Traveling the world with intention and curiosityGoal setting through adventure and endurance challengesTravel setbacks, problem-solving, and personal growthKim’s FKT on the Allegheny Trail and its connection to the Appalachian TrailThe beauty, silence, and perspective of AntarcticaHow nature teaches humility, patience, and presenceWhy This Episode Matters This episode is for anyone who: Dreams of travel but wonders if it’s realisticIs navigating big goals later in lifeFinds meaning on the trail, on the road, or in quiet moments outdoorsBelieves adventure can be both bold and reflectiveConnect with Kim Selvage TikTok: muon2020TravelWithKim&MuoN About the Just Hyke Podcast The Just Hyke Podcast explores hiking, travel, safety, mindset, and the courage to show up — on the trail and in everyday life. Conversations are designed to inspire confidence, curiosity, and connection to the outdoors at any age.

    1h 26m
  4. Never Too Late: Trekking 800 Kilometers on Nepal’s Great Himalaya Trail at 77 | Patti Shales Lefkos

    Episode 4

    Never Too Late: Trekking 800 Kilometers on Nepal’s Great Himalaya Trail at 77 | Patti Shales Lefkos

    At 77 years old, Patti Shales Lefkos trekked 800 kilometers across Nepal’s Great Himalaya Trail in 75 days. In this episode, we explore hiking at altitude after 60, why older hikers may actually perform better at elevation, and how endurance — not speed — builds lifelong resilience. If you’ve ever wondered whether adventure has an expiration date, this conversation proves it doesn’t. Patti shares how she trained for high altitude trekking, the mindset tools that kept her moving on long Himalayan days, and why consistency matters more than intensity. From VHS step workouts and StairMaster training to cross-country skiing and kilometer-by-kilometer mental wins, her preparation was simple — but powerful. We also talk about purposeful travel and how a devastating earthquake in Nepal led Patti and her husband to build schools, support village education, and form lasting relationships through nonprofit work. This episode is for hikers 50+, women building strength, and anyone ready to take one step closer to their own “Sidewalk to Summit.” In This Episode We Discuss: • Trekking Nepal’s Great Himalaya Trail at age 77 • Training for altitude after 60 • Why endurance over speed works better at elevation • Mental strategies for long-distance hiking • Real trail challenges: foggy passes, creek falls, and setbacks • Alternatives to Everest Base Camp (Annapurna, Manaslu, Tsum Valley) • Purposeful adventure travel and giving back • Building resilience through movement Key Takeaways • Set the dream goal far out — then reverse engineer it • Train specifically for your terrain (add stairs if you live on flat ground) • Slow, steady pacing reduces altitude risk • Make movement enjoyable so you stay consistent • Know your map, your gear, and your exit plan Guest: Patti Shales Lefkos Patti is a former inner-city teacher and principal from Vancouver who began a new chapter at 60 as an author, journalist, adventure traveler, and humanitarian. She is the author of Nepal, One Day at a Time and Grounded by Granite, with a new book on resilience and the Great Himalaya Trail forthcoming. Learn more: PattiShalesLefkos.com About the Just Hyke Podcast The Just Hyke Podcast empowers women — especially 50+ — to build confidence, strength, and trail wisdom through movement, mindset, and meaningful adventure. Support the show by sharing, downloading, and following. Explore hiking gear and the Just Hyke Trailmate at JustHyke.com.

    47 min
  5. When Hiking Turns Dangerous: A Hypothermia Story & Trail Safety Lessons with Belinda Coker

    Episode 5

    When Hiking Turns Dangerous: A Hypothermia Story & Trail Safety Lessons with Belinda Coker

    Today on the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie is joined by Belinda Coker, the creator of Soul Treader. Belinda grew up hiking in New Zealand, stepped away for decades during corporate life and parenting, and later returned to the trail in midlife—discovering how powerfully hiking supports both mental and physical well-being. Her mission now is helping others reconnect with nature while hiking safely and sustainably. This conversation dives into the reality behind social media hiking culture, the rise in avoidable trail incidents, and why preparation matters more than aesthetics. Belinda shares a gripping story from Tenerife in the Canary Islands, where a sudden shift in weather led to disorientation, failing electronics, and a close call with hypothermia—plus the lessons she’ll never ignore again (hello, paper maps and gear checks). You’ll also hear practical tips on trail hygiene, safety essentials, and how women can start hiking at any age using simple “out and back” confidence-building walks. Resources: SoulTreader.com (free download: Hike It) Gear: JustHyke.com (Just Hyke Trailmate)

    40 min
  6. How a Pandemic Backpacking Trip Started Trekker Joe’s | Robin Williams

    Episode 6

    How a Pandemic Backpacking Trip Started Trekker Joe’s | Robin Williams

    When the world shut down during the pandemic, Robin Williams found herself searching for a way to get outside and move again. What started as a simple backpacking trip to Lost Maples in Texas quickly turned into something much bigger. In this episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie talks with Robin Williams from Trekker Joe’s, a small family-run business creating handcrafted backpacking gear designed by hikers, for hikers. Robin shares how a heavy first backpacking trip sparked their journey into lightweight gear design, how their family business grew from a few handmade products on Etsy, and what it’s really like building an outdoor brand while balancing work, family, and life. They also talk about lessons learned from the trail, solo hiking safety, and why sometimes the best ideas come from simply getting outside and trying something new. Whether you're a hiker, small business owner, or someone dreaming about turning an outdoor passion into a project, this episode offers inspiration from the trail. In This Episode • How a pandemic backpacking trip sparked the idea for Trekker Joe’s • Lessons learned from their first backpacking trip at Lost Maples • Designing lightweight handcrafted backpacking gear • Building a small family-run outdoor business • The challenges of running a side business while working full-time • Solo hiking tips and safety advice for women hikers • Why keeping gear light matters on the trail and in business About Robin Williams Robin Williams and her husband Joe run Trekker Joe’s, a small family business creating handcrafted ultralight backpacking gear. Their products include water bottle sleeves, fanny packs, zipper pouches, wallets, and dry bags designed to make life on the trail simpler and lighter. Learn More Trekker Joe’s Gear https://trekkerjoes.org Just Hyke https://justhyke.com Connect with the Just Hyke Podcast Subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes featuring hikers, trail leaders, outdoor entrepreneurs, and stories from the trail. Every step you take no matter how small is part of your journey from Sidewalk to Summit.

    28 min
  7. From Injury to Trail Again: How to Start Over After Setbacks (Jo Giese Story)

    Episode 7

    From Injury to Trail Again: How to Start Over After Setbacks (Jo Giese Story)

    What happens when something you love, like walking or hiking is suddenly taken away? In this powerful episode of the Just Hyke Podcast, Melanie sits down with author Jo Giese to share a story of resilience, recovery, and redefining what strength really looks like. After a devastating Achilles injury and multiple surgeries, Jo was told she might never walk the same again. But instead of accepting that outcome, she chose a different path one built on determination, community, and the healing power of nature. This conversation is for anyone who has ever: Faced an injury or setbackFelt like they had to “start over”Wondered if they could ever get back to the trailBecause sometimes the journey forward isn’t about pushing harder… It’s about learning to walk differently. What You’ll Learn How to rebuild strength after a major injuryWhy mindset matters more than physical abilityThe role of community in healing and recoveryHow nature supports both physical and emotional resiliencePractical safety insights for hiking (especially in wildlife areas)Key Moments from the Episode The Turning Point A simple fall led to a life-changing injury and a long road to recovery. The Mindset Shift “You don’t have to accept a limiting diagnosis.” The Power of Purpose Jo’s motivation: getting back to the trails and chasing waterfalls again. The Role of Community Healing wasn’t done alone. Support made the difference. Trail Safety Reality Check Why preparation mattersWildlife awareness (including bear safety)Why hiking with others can be critical Key Takeaway You don’t have to go back to who you were before. You can become someone stronger, more aware, and more resilient. Resources & Next Steps Read Jo’s book: You'll Never Walk AloneExplore more: Just HykeStart your journey with tools and training designed for beginners Subscribe & Share If this episode inspired you, share it with someone who needs encouragement to take their next step no matter where they’re starting from. Follow the Just Hyke Podcast for more stories, tips, and guidance to help you build strength, confidence, and connection outdoors. About Your Host Melanie Michaelchuk, CPT-NASM Founder of Just Hyke | Helping women go from sidewalk to summit Start where you are. Keep moving forward. And trust that your path is still unfolding.

    1h 10m
See All Season 3 (7)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

For Women Who Are Ready to Hike Their Way to Strength, Confidence, and Adventure Welcome to the Just Hyke Podcast—where women over 40 rediscover their power, one trail at a time. Hosted by Melanie Michaelchuk, certified personal trainer, hiking coach, and Kilimanjaro summiteer, this podcast is your go-to resource for outdoor adventure, functional fitness, and mindset growth. Whether you’re lacing up your hiking boots for the first time or chasing bucket list summits, each episode offers practical tips, inspiring trail stories, and interviews with women who are breaking boundaries and blazing trails—literally and figuratively. Topics include: Hiking training and fitness over 40Outdoor gear and trail tips for beginners and seasoned hikersMental resilience and motivationWellness, recovery, and self-care for active womenInterviews with hikers, health pros, and adventure seekersIt’s never too late to start your hiking journey. Subscribe, download, and Just Hyke with us! Learn more at www.justhyke.com #JustHykePodcast #WomenWhoHike #HikingOver40 #OutdoorFitness #TrailLife #AdventureAwaits #StrongWomenOver40 #MidlifeAdventure

Information

You Might Also Like