Ep. 193: Ruth Morley - This PLANTSTRONG Hiker Makes Plans, Not Excuses

When Ann Crile Esselstyn, tells you to do something, you do it! So, when she told me I had to interview today’s guest, I didn’t hesitate.

Ruth Morley is an adventurer. She’s rarely at home in Cincinnati because she’s usually found on a hiking trail. I’m talking about the Appalachian Trail, the Florida Trail, the Buckeye Trail, and Kilimanjaro…just to name just a few. 

She’s even ridden her bike 3,000 miles across the country and competed in dozens of marathons and triathlons. 

Oh, and did I mention that Ruth (known by her trail name, “Ruthless!”) is 70 years old and 100% PLANTSTRONG? 

Today, she tells us how she prepares all of her food for these multi-week adventures and shares the details of her equipment and intricate logistics as a solo hiker. 

This conversation is inspiring, informative, and downright motivational – not just to do these super-long hikes - but to do anything that is out of your comfort zone. 

Her slogan? “Make plans, not excuses.” 

Episode Highlights



5:00 She had lunch with Ann??

7:15 From depression to a game-changing moment - What inspired Ruth to go plant-based?

11:45 What immediate effect did it have on her emotional and physical well-being?

13:20 Where does this adventuring spirit come from? 

15:15 How much does her backpack weigh?

16:30 Her athletic journey from runner to triathlete

18:30 Why she stays in “cheap” hotels and loves to hike alone

21:25 Self-supporting her hike on the Buckeye Trail 

27:30 What a LASHer! How many major trails has she hiked? (Patagonia, Asia, Kilimanjaro, Appalachian Trail, Buckeye Trail, Florida Trail) 

33:00 All about the food and prepping meals for these massive hikes! https://excaliburdehydrator.com/

41:50 Her preferred tent: https://durstongear.com/

Backpack: https://www.ula-equipment.com/product/circuit/

Sleeping Bag: UGQ https://ugqoutdoor.com/ 

Shoes: Topo Athletic https://www.topoathletic.com/ and Altra https://www.altrarunning.com/

Outdoor Research Hat https://www.outdoorresearch.com/us/ 

49:05 Hikers Midnight - How long does she sleep and how does she make her daily hiking schedule?

52:00 Who's the most interesting person she’s ever met on a trail?

54:05 What was her hardest moment on the trail? 

1:02:00 What does she say to people who need the inspiration to eat better and move more?

Episode Resources

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Ruth's Blog

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