LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast

LGBTQ Outdoors
  • 4.5 (29)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

LGBTQ Outdoors is a 501c3 nonprofit and this podcast serves as a tool to help us advance our mission of connecting the LGBTQIA+ community to the outdoors and to each other while creating a more diverse and inclusive outdoor space. LGBTQOutdoors.com

  1. 6D AGO

    43: Hiking for Visibility: Ryan Schepers’ Appalachian Trail Journey for LGBTQ+ Inclusion

    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.

    51 min
  2. 42: Queer Words, Wild Places: Exploring poetry, identity, and belonging in the outdoors

    APR 20

    42: Queer Words, Wild Places: Exploring poetry, identity, and belonging in the outdoors

    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.

    1h 10m
  3. 41: It’s Been A Minute: Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Going

    MAR 16

    41: It’s Been A Minute: Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Going

    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.

    34 min
  4. 40: From Instagram to Alaska - Building Queer Outdoor Community

    09/08/2025

    40: From Instagram to Alaska - Building Queer Outdoor Community

    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.

    41 min
  5. 39: Brewed for Change: Kombucha, Community & Queer Visibility

    05/19/2025

    39: Brewed for Change: Kombucha, Community & Queer Visibility

    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.

    55 min
  6. 38: Amanda Benson: Freedom on the Dusty Trail

    05/05/2025

    38: Amanda Benson: Freedom on the Dusty Trail

    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.

    56 min
  7. 37: Pride, Planet, and Purpose: Earth Day with Joe Toolan

    04/21/2025

    37: Pride, Planet, and Purpose: Earth Day with Joe Toolan

    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.

    54 min
  8. 36: Saying Yes to Adventure: Grandma Joy’s Road Trip

    03/24/2025

    36: Saying Yes to Adventure: Grandma Joy’s Road Trip

    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.

    1h 7m
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4.5
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

LGBTQ Outdoors is a 501c3 nonprofit and this podcast serves as a tool to help us advance our mission of connecting the LGBTQIA+ community to the outdoors and to each other while creating a more diverse and inclusive outdoor space. LGBTQOutdoors.com

Information

  • Creator
    LGBTQ Outdoors
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast
  • Show Website
    LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast

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