Tough Girl Podcast

In this episode, we learn about Meghan J. Ward, a writer based in Banff, Canada, who is passionate about outdoor adventure and travel. Meghan is a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, and the author of Lights to Guide Me Home: A Journey Off the Beaten Track in Life, Love, Adventure, and Parenting.  Meghan has written several books, as well as produced content for films, anthologies, blogs and some of North America’s top outdoor, fitness and adventure publications. Meghan shares her journey as a writer, her love of travel, and how she balances parenting with her passion for exploration.  Meghan also provides practical advice for new moms who want to continue travelling and going on adventures with their children. We also learn about her current project, a documentary film about early 20th-century mountain explorer Mary Schäffer Warren. Finally, Meghan shares some words of advice for women who want to spend more time travelling and going on adventures. *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Hit the subscribe button so you don’t miss out.  You can support the mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast Thank you.   Show notes Who is Meghan Being based in Banff, Canada Having 2 daughters aged 4 and 10 Being a writer and releasing her first travel memoir  Her passion for travel and for being outside  Growing up in Ottawa, Canada Her love of travel and where it came from  Being inspired by National Geographic Magazines  Meeting her husband, Paul in the summer of 2005  Starting a writing career after university  Being encouraged to pursue writing  Her writing process while travelling  Book: Lights to Guide Me Home: A Journey Off the Beaten Track in Life, Love, Adventure, and Parenting Advice for new mums who have children and want to continue travelling and going on adventures Practical pieces of advice for travelling with children Travelling with children on planes Travelling in a way which is good for the environment Slower travel and making micro adjustments  Artists for Air - Brave travellers cleaning up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.  Raising awareness for carbon removal and carbon offsets  Working on a documentary film about 20th-century mountain explorer, Mary Schäffer Warren  Going on a road trip through the Baltic Nations How to connect with Meghan Final words of advice for women who want to spend more time travelling and going on adventure.   Social Media Website: meghanjoyward.com Substack: meghanjward.substack.com Instagram: @meghanjward Twitter: @meghanjward Facebook: @meghanjoyward Book: Lights to Guide Me Home: A Journey Off the Beaten Track in Life, Love, Adventure, and Parenting Documentary - www.wildflowersfilm.ca  

Arati Kumar-Rao is an exceptional National Geographic Explorer, independent environmental photographer, writer, and artist dedicated to documenting the slow violence of ecological degradation. With unwavering passion, she traverses the South Asian subcontinent, embarking on captivating journeys that span seasons and sometimes years. Through her profound storytelling, Arati chronicles the ever-changing landscapes, climate, and their profound impact on livelihoods and biodiversity in South Asia. Arati's profound impact is not confined to her lens or pen; she employs a multidimensional approach, utilising the power of photos, long form narratives, and art to communicate her insights. Recently, she unveiled her debut book, "Marginlands: Indian Landscapes On The Brink," a poignant exploration now available in bookstores across India and on Amazon. Currently, Arati is engaged in a significant undertaking as she explores forced human migration in India, supported by a prestigious National Geographic grant. Her remarkable body of work has garnered recognition and has been featured in esteemed publications such as The National Geographic Magazine, Emergence Magazine, The Hindu, #Dysturb, The Guardian, BBC Outside Source, Hindustan Times, Mint, and other reputable outlets. Additionally, her artistic endeavours have been exhibited both in India and internationally, leaving an indelible mark on the global stage. When not immersed in her assignments, Arati finds solace and inspiration in the Western Ghats and Bangalore, where she cherishes being a loving mother to three rescued cats. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Arati? Being based in Bangalore when not travelling  Her role as an environmental chronicler  Being a slow journalist or a slow storyteller The types of story she tells  Her passion for photography and art  The tools she uses to tell the story  Working in the corporate world and making the decision to leave her job (2013) and start telling environmental stories  Her early years growing up and spending time in nature  Being inspired by the National Geographic Magazine  Wanting to tell stories of the land by walking  Making the transition from the corporate world to following her passion for storytelling  The practical steps involved 2 pivotal moments in her life Studying for a Masters in Physical and working in a lab and deciding it wasn’t the right job for her Having to choose between the Arts and the Sciences Moving back to India and working with Intel doing Market Research Falling ill with Typhoid in her 30s and starting to reflect on her life and thinking about what she really wanted to do Needing to make new connections and build new networks  Slowly starting to find her way and the power of social media to publish stories Slow story telling verses the speed of the internet Needing to upskill in photography, writing and art Taking out personal loads and writing for grants Getting the grant from National Geographic to study forced Human Migration across India due to environmental degradation  Doing a transect walk from the most easterly point of India to the most Westerly point.  Planning and starting a story - what that looks like  Following the threads and seeing where it leads Knowing when you are on the right path? Not finding any path to be wrong - there is always something to learn Taking a pause to reflect on the information that’s been gathered  Dealing with dead ends and moving on Her first time in Bangladesh  New book: Marginlands: Indian Landscapes on the Brink  The speed and impact of climate change  Why it’s important to listen to the local geography’s Sounds in storytelling - Soundscapes Recording a sound signature throughout the journey  Paul Salopek’s - Out of Eden Walk Art as part of the storytelling Wanting to train herself to pay attention to detail  How to connect with Arati on the social media platforms  Final words of advice for other women to follow their passions  Why it’s important for women to speak up The stories that are in your backyard “Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it.” ~ Mary Oliver.   Social Media Website: www.aratikumarrao.com Instagram: @aratikumarrao  Twitter: @aratikumarrao   Facebook: @aratikumarrao   Book: Marginlands: Indian Landscapes on the Brink

Charlotte Garner is a 58-year-old runner and cyclist, living in France, who only took up sports ten years ago, aged 48. She advocates for the physical and mental benefits of sports for women in their 50s.  In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, she shares her journey of getting involved in sports and how it has transformed her life. Charlotte grew up in Wales but has lived in France all her life, working as a freelance translator and raising her two daughters. It wasn't until her early 40s that she started to become interested in sports.  After a divorce, Charlotte moved to Leon and got into running, completing her first 5km and 10km race. She felt a sense of achievement after completing the distance and proud to be part of a community of runners.  Joining a running club changed her running for the better, and having a coach and following a training plan helped her structure her running routine. Charlotte has since completed seven marathons and two ultra marathons, enjoying the challenge of pushing herself further. Charlotte's journey is an inspiration for women who may have thought it was too late to start being active. It is never too late to start, and the physical and mental benefits are well worth it. *** Stay updated with the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast by hitting the subscribe button. Don't miss out on inspiring stories of adventurous and resilient women. You can also make a difference by supporting the mission to increase the representation of female role models in the media especially in relation to adventure and physical challenges. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to contribute and help create a more inclusive world. Thank you for your support! *** Show notes Who is Charlotte 58 years old Growing up in Wales Living in France all her life Working as a freelance translator Mother to two daughters Getting interested in sports in her early 40s Why 50 is a great age to get involved in sports Her early years growing up in Wales Not liking sports at school and being bullied Making the decision to move to France at 25 Studying French and Spanish at University  Becoming qualified to Teach English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Marrying a French man and having 2 daughters Getting move active in her late 40s Going through a divorce Moving to Leon Getting into running and doing her first 5km and 10km race Feeling a sense of achievement after completing the distance Feeling proud to be a part of a community of runners Joining a running club and how it changed her running for the better Having a running coach and following a training plan Liking a structure and enjoying following a plan Running 7 marathons and doing 2 ultra marathons Enjoying the challenge of pushing herself further  Running 70/80km per week in training  Peri-menopause and menopause and the impact on running Not sleeping properly and going on HRT tablets The mental side of running longer distances The power of gratitude Turning 50 and not looking forward to it Getting fitter and feeling younger Bike touring around New Zealand for 3 months Starting cycle touring in Switzerland and her love of travelling this way Wanting to get more long term adventure in her life Figuring out how to do that as a freelance translator Working and travelling while on the road Heading to New Zealand in December 2022 Having to be disciplined while on the road Advice for other women who want to go cycle touring Find a bike that fits you and suits you Start small with a weekend trip and build it up from there Learning to be happy with your own company Using an old folding bike to get around the city  Buying an Avanti bike in New Zealand The challenges of selling the bike at the end Trade Me  Words of advice for women in their 50s who want to get more physically active Connecting with other like minded people  Join a running club or another inclusive group. e.g. Adventure Queens   Social Media None 

Steph set a world record for skiing the most vertical feet in a year, but that is just a small part of her story. She is also an author and a sought-after mentor and coach who helps guide people towards a deeper understanding of themselves and their stories. Steph's work, which includes speaking and facilitating, centers around the intersection of loss, the nature of deep remembrance, and the personal journey of re-creation.  Her first book, Unbound: A Story of Snow and Self-Discovery, is not just about setting a world record for skiing, but also about growing up and claiming femininity as a super-power. It is a powerful and inspiring read that everyone should experience. Steph's mother has late-stage Alzheimer's, and she wrote a book about their time together on a road-trip, which is called Everything Left to Remember: My Mother, Our Memories, And a Journey Through the Rocky Mountains.  This poignant and moving book is about the way we are pulled apart and the way we are re-membered.  “It is a story about mothers and daughters— a book about nature, and memory, and loss of all kinds. It’s about transforming our pain into something much larger. This is a book about love.” *** Don't miss out on new episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast that are released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Hit the subscribe button to stay updated. By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can help increase the representation of female role models in the media especially in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to contribute. Thank you for your support! *** Show notes Who is Steph Living on Bainbridge Island, Washington State, USA Growing up in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Creating a nice life for herself Hitting 26 years old and knowing that something was missing Deciding to quit everything and sell everything A year of emersion in her own joy Deciding to go skiing and travelling How that 1 year away changed her whole life Her first Book: Unbound: A Story of Snow and Self-Discovery  Her mum being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Her 2nd book: Everything Left to Remember: My Mother, Our Memories, And a Journey Through the Rocky Mountains.   Her early years growing up in an athletic family  Being encouraged to play sports Learning to ski from 3 yrs old Her early 20s and feeling pressure to achieve Being very goal and achievement orientated  Happiness…. Doing all the things she was told to do… and now what? Why the journey was stunning, but the finish line was just another ordinary day Making the decision to change her life and build something different and new What was holding her back Turning the dream into a plan Having a year to put it together Financial and logistically planning and getting fit for the challenge The Hero’s Journey - Joseph Campbell  Women, risk taking and gratitude Skiing all around the world The grind of travel   Magical moments - Skiing in Japan Finding love and taking time to physically recover from the trip Her mother being diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2015 The relationship with her mum and planning a journey through the Rocky Mountains Are you listening for the call of adventure, and do you have the courage to say yes, when you hear it? How the family is coping with the diagnosis and caring for a loved one The ongoing process of grief Creating memories that won’t be remembered Suffering with depression and managing mental health  How to connect with Steph Words of advice   Social Media Website: stephjagger.com   Instagram: @stephjagger  Book: Everything Left to Remember: My Mother, Our Memories, And a Journey Through the Rocky Mountains.  Book: Unbound: A Story of Snow and Self-Discovery  

Today, we delve into the inspiring story of Dr. Hannah Lock, 33, a British doctor and mountaineer living on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, Wales. With a deep passion for medicine and a love for the mountains, Dr. Lock has embarked on thrilling adventures, led expeditions, and shared her invaluable knowledge of mountain medicine. Join us as we explore her remarkable journey. Raised near the Peak District, Dr. Lock's childhood was filled with outdoor adventures. From hill walking to rock climbing and skiing, she developed a deep connection to the natural world. A pivotal moment in the French Alps introduced her to Alpine mountaineering, sparking a lifelong love for high-altitude environments. Her subsequent expeditions took her across the globe, from the Brazilian Amazon to the Bolivian Andes and the Swiss Alps. Dr. Lock found her true passion in Emergency Medicine. Today, she skilfully balances her work in the ER with mountain medicine teaching and expedition support. She provides medical support for ultra marathon trail events in the UK and has expanded her reach to cover mountain marathons in the Nepal Himalaya. Her true calling lies in supporting groups on remote, high-altitude expeditions, empowering them to push their limits while ensuring their safety. Dr. Hannah Lock's journey as a British doctor and mountaineer exemplifies the power of pursuing one's passions and bridging different worlds. Driven by her love for medicine and the outdoors, Dr. Lock continues to empower others through her invaluable knowledge of mountain medicine. Her story inspires us to merge our passions, conquer new heights, and make a positive impact in our chosen fields. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Who is Hannah Working as a portfolio Doctor Being based in Bangor, North Wales Growing up in Macclesfield on the border of the Peak District Spending lots of time in the outdoors as a child Fitness and spending time in the outdoors while studying at university Doing Duke of Edinburgh as a teenager and how it inspired her love of the outdoors  Doing a World Challenge Expedition to Bolivia  Her first taste of big mountains and travelling in South America Going to Leeds University and joining the hiking club  Combining her passions together Learning more about becoming an Expedition Doctor  Doing a Chemistry Degree first  Going and finding opportunities  Going to medical school at University of Warwick  Gaining mountain skills via Mountain Leader Qualification  Wilderness Medicine Society Professor Chris Imray - (Vascular & Renal Transplant Surgeon based in Coventry, climbed the 7 Summits, & world expert in frostbite)  Dong a Diploma in Mountain Medicine  Starting off on UK Event Work - supporting runners on ultra marathons and multi day ultra marathons Supporting runners in Nepal and gaining more experience  Risk assessment planning Working within your competency level - but also being competent to deal with challenges Her first solo trip as a medic on Kilimanjaro (5,895 m) and the challenges of altitude  Heading to Northern India - Summiting Stok Kangri (6,154 m) - highest trekkable summit in India Starting to teach Mountain Medicine  Realities and Risks  ER (Emergency Room (USA)) -  ED (Emergency Department (UK)) Views on life and risk taking Why you should tell people you love them Working in intensive care Deciding to work part time and how her schedule looks Risks in the mountains and how it’s changed over the years Being a climber who is scared of heights  Joining Ogwen Mountain Rescue team  Dream mountains & wanting to climb a 6,000m peak Introduction to “Humans at High Altitude”  CPD Credits  How to connect with Hannah on the socials Working on a 2nd course - which will be specific to women mountaineers Final words of advice and wisdom Trying to fit her work life around the mountains    Social Media Website: www.drhannahlock.co.uk Altitude Course: humans-at-high-altitude.teachable.com/p/course1  Instagram: @hannah_lock_exped_doc  

In this episode of  the Tough Girl Podcast, we talk with 26-year-old Claire Wyatt, who is currently cycling 16,000km around Australia. Claire is passionate about solo bicycle touring and sharing stories of kindness from around the world. She tells us about her big adventure in Australia, her passion for cycle touring over the past four years, and her early years growing up as one of five children. After studying criminology at Loughborough University, Claire moved to Cambodia to work for a travel company. It was there that she got into cycling in her 20s and eventually went on her first cycle tour around Cambodia for three weeks. She tells us about the lessons she learned on that trip and how it inspired her to continue exploring the world on two wheels. Claire also shares with us the challenges of cycle touring, from budgeting to communication and staying safe on the road. She tells us about the magical moments she's experienced while out on the road and the kindness of strangers she's encountered along the way. Throughout the episode, Claire provides practical advice for women who want to travel by bike, including how to plan a trip, what equipment to invest in, and how to communicate with locals. She also shares the story of how she was inspired by Dervla Murphy, an Irish travel writer who cycled from Ireland to India in the 1960s. If you're interested in following Claire's journey, you can check out her blog and follow her on Instagram at @exploringbybicycle. And don't forget to hit the subscribe button for new episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast every Tuesday at 7am UK time. You can also support the mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for listening! *** Show notes 26 years old Travelling by bike Her big adventure in Australia  Her passion for cycle touring over the past 4 years Her early years growing up and being 1 of 5 children Getting into cycling in her 20s after university  Having a twin sister Studying criminology at Loughborough University  Moving to Cambodia to work for a travel company Her decision making process Taking redundancy Going on her first cycle tour around Cambodia for 3 weeks Figuring it out on the first trip The magic letter and how it helped her communicate with local people Staying with local family and cheap guest houses Heading home during COVID  Setting up a small project called Mind over Miles  Cycling from Land’s End to John O’Groats (LEJOG) to raise funds for the Adventure Therapy Charity  The lessons from cycling LEJOG and why it was a good experience The bike - Surly Ogre  Investing in new equipment  Power while on the road Carrying her laptop and working while on the road Money and budget while on the road Cycling 16,000km around Australia  Starting in Tasmania and ending in Perth Planning to cycle from Cambodia back to the UK The challenges of cycle touring  Magical moments while out on the road Using Warmshowers for accommodation  The kindness of strangers The Great Queensland Rail Adventure  Learning mechanics for the bike  Communicating with family and using a Zoleo Communicating via radio (Channel 40 in Australia) with the truck drivers Advice for women who want to travel by bike Being inspired by Dervla Murphy  Book: Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle by Dervla Murphy  How to connect with Claire Her blog   Social Media Blog: https://wanderingwyatt135121267.wordpress.com/  Instagram: @exploringbybicycle   

In her own words: “Hi! I'm Kalyani, a freelance photographer, biologist and wildlife filmmaker, born and raised in the city of Leicester, what felt like miles away from the countryside and the outdoors.  With no role-models or influences in my life to steer me to the natural world, it's a mystery to my whole family how I ended up loving the outdoors and everything in it, but somehow I did.  My love for nature fuelled me to pursue a BSc at the Royal Veterinary College where I studied a whole range of aspects of animal biology; from anatomy and physiology to behaviour and evolution. My research into kangaroo biomechanics and limb bone scaling was part of a paper published in the Royal Society Open Science in 2018. I then completed my MSc at Imperial College London, where I fell in love with science communication and story telling. I first picked up a camera at 19 years old when my parents sent me to live in an ashram for 6 months (of course, as a teenager, I wasn't too thrilled at the prospect initially) and that's how I accidentally got into, and got hooked on, photography. I am self-taught and now specialise in travel and wildlife photography. I love exploring the world, often travelling solo, and learning about different cultures beyond stereotypes. Having Indian heritage, I have a deep understanding of the need to look beyond imperialist and colonialist generalisations and I am able to truly connect with people around the world. As a biologist, there's something so incredibly special about seeing the most breathtaking animals in their natural habitat and experiencing the sheer magnitude and magic of the world around us. I have been fortunate enough to have been to the Kumbh Mela, the largest gathering of people on Earth, the forests of Finland to photograph brown bears and the depths of the South African ocean, surrounded by thousands of hammerhead sharks. My photography work has been featured by UNICEF and the BBC and I have had the opportunity to have worked for Parmarth Niketan Ashram and Light for the World. I have also had footage featured on BBC AutumnWatch and one of my photographs was selected for the long list of the Natural History Museum's Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. I work full time as a freelancer on science and wildlife documentaries, where I am currently working as a researcher for the BBC's Natural History Unit on a landmark natural history series for National Geographic.” *** New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast go live every Tuesday at 7am UK time - Hit the subscribe button so you don’t miss out.  You can support the mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast Thank you. *** Show notes Who is Kalyani Her love for the outdoors and nature Wanting to be a vet when she was younger Being sent to India by her parents Accidentally getting into photography What did her daily life look like in the Ashram The moment when it all came together for her and started to enjoy taking photos Going back home and doing a 3-year science degree Still unsure what she wanted to do Getting her Master's at Imperial Science Media Production Working in a restaurant How did she get her first job in The Great British Bake Off Starting out as a runner and what she does Taking every opportunity that is given to her How does she cope with the stress Her trips to other countries and what was it like for her Her main job as a wildlife filmmaker Working on a big series for National Geographic Interesting place in Africa called Mauritania Doing a shoot for three and a half weeks with a small crew Why she's less tired than many others and her exhaustion-coping advice Biggest challenges she's faced and had to deal with Kalyani's trip to Iceland and why it was one of the best wildlife moments for her Taking a trip to Finland for her birthday Diving in the South African ocean with the hammerhead sharks Climate change and figuring out shoot dates The reality of nature Where to find more information about Kalyani Top tips and advice   Social Media Website: www.kalyanilodhia.com Instagram: @kalyanilodhia  Twitter: @kalyanilodhia  

Alice is passionate about solo female travel, adventure and eco-tourism. A 7x telly award winning host, filmmaker, writer, and photographer, Alice has travelled to some of the most remote and beautiful places in the world.  Alice  has documented her solo adventures on her popular youtube channel “Alice Ford Adventures”. Alice creates videos on adventure travel, National Parks, hiking, outdoor exploration, sustainable living and wildlife.  “I'm an adventure filmmaker, travel addict and a Stuntwoman, but most of all a traveler, explorer and lover of our earth.  I love to get outdoors and hike in the mountains, explore off the beaten path destinations and get up close with wildlife.” Alice's first solo travel experience in her late 20s was a life-changing one. Travelling to Europe, she was inspired to see more of the world and to do more adventuring by herself. Despite concerns and fears, Alice managed to overcome them by being in contact with local people and having an agenda when she travels. Alice wants to encourage more women to get out and explore the world. One of Alice's most memorable experiences was climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and going on a safari in Tanzania. The challenges of hiking at high altitude were mitigated by the support and encouragement of other women. Alice Ford is truly an inspiration for all those who love adventure, nature, and eco-tourism. *** Don't miss out on new episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, which are released every Tuesday at 7am UK time. Hit the subscribe button to stay up-to-date and inspired by the incredible stories of female role models from around the world.  If you believe in the importance of increasing female representation especially in relation to adventure and physical challenges in the media, please consider supporting our mission by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your support! *** Show notes Who is Alice Ford Being a solo female traveller who loves adventure Being passionate about eco-tourism and exploring indigenous cultures  Wanting to teach people about the world, nature, ecology and wildlife Wanting to empower other women to get out and explore Where her passion for adventure came from  Growing up in the woods in New Hampshire, USA Starting out as business major before changing her major to community development   Transferring college and changing to sociology and public administration  Getting a Masters in Environmental Management  Being athletic at college and doing; track & field, spring board diving and gymnastics Her first big solo travel experience in her late 20s Travelling to Europe and how it changed her life  Being inspired to see more of the world and wanting to do more adventuring by herself Concerns and fears before travelling solo Tips for managing fears and concerns  Being in contact with local people  Having an agenda when she travels Spending time in Tanzania Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and going on a safari The challenges of hiking at high altitude Being supported and encouraged by other women Training for Kilimanjaro Hiking with an altitude mask on  Eco-tourism and climbing mountains Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP) a not-for-profit organisation, is an initiative of the International Mountain Explorers Connection (IMEC)  Hiring guides in other countries and wanting to support local communities  How can people fly ethically? The challenges of travelling in a green way in America Buying carbon offsets  Exploring the National Parks in America  Working as a stuntwoman on movies and TV shows Training in marital arts and learning how to do film fighting Keep fit and healthy  Women in the stunt and film industry and how it’s changed over the past decade Solo female travel, eco tourism and indigenous communities  Staying with a Sami Family (reindeer herders) in Norway  Putting grass in boots to keep your feet warm Future travel plans for 2023 - Rim to Rim hike in the Grand Canyon, The Vancouver Island West Coast Trail, GR20 in Corsica, The Great Western walk in Australia and The Trans Bhutan Trail, plus hikes in New Zealand and South America How to connect with Alice  Final words of advice to encourage more women to go travelling  Vision boards    Social Media Website: alicesadventuresonearth.com  Instagram: @alicesadventuresonearth  Twitter: @alicelford  Youtube: @AliceFordAdventures    

Hey hey, it's Sarah Williams, your host from the Tough Girl Podcast, and today we're diving into something a bit different.  In this special solo episode, I'll take you through my personal journey, looking back on the end of 2022 to the adventures and challenges of 2023, and my exciting plans ahead. I'll share highlights like my journey to the Outer Hebrides, health changes, and unexpected twists like catching COVID while in Australia. Plus, insights into projects like Project 7, and "7 Women - 7 Challenges”. Discover how I navigated an empty diary, contemplated future adventures, and decided on my next big challenge—the Camino de Santiago. You'll also hear about changes in the vlogging format and deciding between hiking and fastpacking the PCT.  Plus, insights into how I choose my adventures, my favourite one so far, and the vision board guiding my future goals. Join me on this adventure and get inspired to set your own goals and chase your dreams.  Thanks for being part of the Tough Girl Podcast community, and don't hesitate to share your thoughts, questions, and comments! ***  Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, released every Tuesday at 7am UK time! Be sure to hit the subscribe button to stay updated on the incredible journeys and stories of strong women.  By supporting the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon, you can make a difference in increasing the representation of female role models in the media, particularly in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Your contribution helps empower and inspire others. Visit www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast to be a part of this important movement. Thank you for your invaluable support! *** Show notes Welcome from Sarah Why it’s a different episode from normal  Agenda Set the scene  Late August/September 2022 Going on an adventure with Adelaide Goodeve Outer Hebrides - Watch the Vlogs  Sponsored by Hiiker Adding on future hikes - Speyside Way, Moray Coast Trail, East Highland Way  Gut health issues and not being well in October  Starting a wheat and dairy free diet Flying to Australia at the beginning of November Catching Covid Walking the highest 14 peaks in Australia - Cancelled  Walking in the Grampians with Debbie & CC Project 7 - resources on the website - update January - walking the Great Ocean Walk with Amanda February - Goa, India - yoga, rest & recover What was going to happen when I got back to the UK Having an empty diary and no plans Trying to figure out future plans - Sarah Goes to the Shetlands? South West Coastal Path (SWCP)? Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) South Bound (SOBO)? National Outdoor Expo - 2023 - networking and generating leads  Getting out there and doing what you love Deciding to do the Camino de Santiago - watch the vlogs  The things that people don’t talk about  Booking accommodation on the camino - booking.com and caminosleep.com Booking a return flight or not? Walking with Alex Mason GR20?  Working with Land & Wave - Sponsoring the July podcast Free courses for patrons and tribe members Attending the Armchair Adventure Festival Listen to the LIVE tough girl podcast episodes now Heading to Bristol to stay with a friend Deciding to walk Offa’s Dyke Path Having everything scheduled out for the next 12 months The work I need to do between challenges Plans for London in September 7th - 12th  Walking the Camino Primitivo 12th - 27th September Training for the TA trail, New Zealand Having 3 weeks at home and what I need to get done North Island — 1000k in 50days Heading to Melbourne for Christmas South Island - in January & February Home to the UK in March 2024 The numbers and using them as a measurement tool Hitting 4 million downloads in 2024? Changing the vlogging format to 2 days per vlog New vlogs every Wednesday and Friday at 7am UK - Tough Girl Youtube Channel Why I focus on creating content Patreon update - learn more  A massive thank you to all the patrons Challenges I’m working through at the moment Editing vlogs Hiking or fastpacking the PCT? Testing out fast packing on the Camino Via De La Plata (100km) April 2024 Running on some of my challenges Book: Multi-Day Running Adventures - Fastpacking - Tips, Stories and Route Ideas By Lily Dyu  Youtube Shorts? How do you choose your adventures? Being inspired by the guests on the podcast Favourite Adventure? Feeling as though everything is coming together Creating my vision board for adventures  The Pink Decade (2015 - 2025) Future goals - The Triple Crown, Walked all 7 Camino’s, The UK National Trails  Feeling adventure driven Future plans for 2024  #ChallengeWithZoleo - solo podcast episode focused on planning and preparation - 2nd November National Outdoor Expo - 23rd - 24th March 2024? Looking for new sponsors Fastpacking the Camino and doing YouTube Shorts 2024 will be 7 years since "7 women - 7 Challenges” UK based May - July 15th  Fastpacking the PCT SOBO - doing a UK National Trail beforehand? Insight to what’s going on Avoiding wheat…. Feedback, questions, comments? Thank you   Social Media Website: www.toughgirlchallenges.com Instagram: @toughgirlchallenges Twitter: @_TOUGH_GIRL Facebook: www.facebook.com/ToughGirlChallenges YouTube: @toughgirlchallenges   Take a listen to the previous solo reflections episodes  4th Aug 2022 - Sarah Williams - Reflects on the end of 2021 and the start of 2022. 4th Aug 2021 - Sarah Williams - Reflects on the end of 2020 and the start of 2021 7th Aug 2020 - Sarah Williams - Reflections on 2019 & and the start of 2020.  4th Aug 2019 - Reflections on 2018 and the start of 2019. Plus plans for Tough Girl Challenges.  30th Dec 2017 - Reflecting on 2017 and the plans for 2018  30th Dec 2016 - Reflections for 2016 & Plans for 2017    

Meet Anna Stishova, an adventurous paddler hailing from Russia, whose paddling journey began in the UK in 2011. With a strong initial focus on white water kayaking, Anna's path took an unexpected turn towards flat water marathon racing due to various challenges she encountered along the way. As a dedicated paddler, Anna not only pursued her own goals but also became a staunch advocate for inclusivity in the sport. Let's delve into Anna's inspiring story of determination and community impact. Overcoming Obstacles and Chasing Dreams: In 2015, Anna faced a significant setback when an elbow injury from a bike accident forced her to put her athletic pursuits on hold for six months. However, Anna's indomitable spirit remained unwavering. In 2016, she earned her Coaching Paddlesports qualification and generously volunteered at the Leaside Trust in London, sharing her knowledge and passion for the sport. Anna's ultimate aspiration was to complete the formidable Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race, a challenging 125-mile-long journey often referred to as the "Kayaker's Everest." Undeterred, she participated in this demanding race twice, first in 2017 and then in 2018, paddling in a K1 kayak. Although her first attempt resulted in disqualification on Day 3 due to a minor time delay, her second endeavour faced unexpected adversities as adverse weather and treacherous water conditions forced the entire race to halt on Day 2. During her time at Leaside, Anna crossed paths with Sirin Arif Gisel, a young Turkish girl who had relocated to the UK from Romania. Recognising Sirin's potential, Anna invited her to be her Junior-Veteran kayak crew for the 2019 DW race. Their collaboration paid off handsomely as they successfully completed the race, becoming the first female Muslim K2 crew to conquer the DW challenge. With Anna's achievement, she became the first hijabi Muslim woman, to finish the race. Life's Transformations and Continued Resilience: In 2019, Anna tied the knot shortly before the DW race and subsequently moved to Bolton. The following year, she experienced the joys of motherhood, along with the challenges posed by the Covid-19 lockdowns. Anna herself contracted the virus in April 2020 and continues to deal with its lingering effects.  Furthermore, the combination of a demanding pregnancy, labor, and the pandemic led to a decline in her fitness levels. However, Anna discovered solace and rejuvenation by joining the Bolton Canoe Club toward the end of that challenging year. Her passion for paddling even inspired her stepchildren to explore the sport. Advocacy and Recognition: Anna's dedication and remarkable achievements within the paddling community did not go unnoticed. In 2021, she was honoured to become a #ShePaddles Ambassador for British Canoeing, serving as a role model and advocate for female participation in the sport. She also joined the Inclusion Advisory Group for British Canoeing, actively contributing to the development of the organisation's Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) strategy for the years 2022 to 2026. Looking ahead, Anna continues to be a shining example of perseverance, determination, and the power of inclusivity in the world of paddlesports. Her journey serves as an inspiration to all those who dare to chase their dreams, overcome obstacles, and make a lasting impact on their communities. *** Don't miss out on the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast! Tune in every Tuesday at 7am UK time. Hit the subscribe button to stay updated and ensure you never miss a show. If you believe in the mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media, especially in relation to adventure and physical challenges. You can show your support by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.  Thank you for joining me on this journey.   Show notes Who is Anna Moving to the UK in 2003 at 20 years old Her love for paddlesports Her childhood and growing up in Russia  Getting introduced to the outdoors Festivals and kayaking in Siberia Wanting to start over in the UK Her first big rafting trip at 18 Not knowing where to paddle in the UK Converting to Islam & getting married  Losing herself and going through a hard time Visiting her parents in 2011 and going on a 21 day kayaking trip with friends in Siberia  Wolves & bears! Getting back into paddling again once back in the UK Finding a local canoe club How things have changed over the past 10 years Hiring a coach  Struggling with barriers in white water rafting and needing to make a pivot Getting into flat water marathon racing Being better suited to endurance  Kayaking marathons Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race  Persevering with the race and going back 3x Deciding to enter as a Junior (aged between 15-19 years old) & Veteran Team  Finding her team mate, Sirin Arif Gisel Dealing with the death of a competitor during the end of the race The lessons and learning from completing the race The support from the flatwater community  The mental challenges while being out on the river Being a role model Feeling judged by the non paddling muslin community Using water sports as a way to have time to herself  Motherhood and continuing with paddlesports Not being able to get out and paddle during the lockdowns Getting back into paddlesport  Dealing with a back injury and not being able to get back into a kayak Taking up Stand Up Paddle boarding  Being a She Paddles Ambassador (2021-2022)  Being a member of the Inclusion Advisory Group for British Canoeing  How to connect with Anna on Instagram & Facebook Follow #ShePaddles hashtag on Instagram Advice for women who want to try new things    Social Media Instagram: @KayakingHijabi  Facebook: @KayakingHijabi