LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast

• 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.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dustytrailrvInstagram: @dustytrailrvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/dustytrailrvHelp support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.

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• 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.

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• 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: @grandmajoysroadtripFor 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.

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• 35: Adventure Awaits: Hear From Our 2025 Trip Leaders!

  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.

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• 34: Tommy Corey: Capturing the spirit of Diversity

  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.

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