

YOU on the Camino de Santiago
Nancy @ The Camino Experience
You want to walk the Camino de Santiago in Spain but where do you start? What is your first step in preparing and planning for such a big undertaking?
Whether you have just now heard of the Camino, or if your flights are booked and you have a start date, this podcast will walk with you as you take your first steps of preparing, planning, and starting your Camino experience.
Guide and long-time pilgrim Nancy Reynolds shares her nearly 20 years of experience walking the Camino and leading 15 small groups on the Camino Francés - plus interviews with new pilgrims getting ready for their first ever Camino walks.
Whether you have just now heard of the Camino, or if your flights are booked and you have a start date, this podcast will walk with you as you take your first steps of preparing, planning, and starting your Camino experience.
Guide and long-time pilgrim Nancy Reynolds shares her nearly 20 years of experience walking the Camino and leading 15 small groups on the Camino Francés - plus interviews with new pilgrims getting ready for their first ever Camino walks.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 15, 2023 • 52min
S3 Ep 4: Kim Prepares to Walk the Camino del Norte . . . with 16 Friends!
16 WOMEN AND A CATHOLIC PRIEST
Kim from Tulsa, Oklahoma, in the US, is getting ready to walk the Camino del Norte on a pilgrimage led by her parish priest.
Why walk with a group? Why not take off on this adventure on your own? Kim shows us why it's important to answer these questions for yourself.
We also talk about how to ensure you see the Botafumeiro at the pilgrim's mass, and what to do about those trekking poles when boarding the flight to Europe.
ALL ABOUT THE CAMINO PILGRIMAGE
From the source, the Oficina de Acogida al Peregrino in Santiago de Compostela. Learn more here.
TO ACCESS THE LINKS IN THESE SHOW NOTES
If you are not able to access the links in these show notes, please visit www.thecaminoexperience.com and go to the BLOG tab for all recent podcast episode show notes. Or, click on the logo of the podcast on the homepage of that website.
ARE YOU WALKING THE CAMINO FRANCÉS?
Here is everything you need to get started, all in one place: The Camino Francés Getting Started Audio Guide.
Or email Nancy for more information: youonthecamino@gmail.com
#youonthecamino
#caminodesantiago
#firsttimepilgrim
#thecaminoexperience
#caminopodcast

Aug 8, 2023 • 1h 1min
S3 Ep 3 Dawn and Fiona are about to walk the Camino Francés
TWO MUMS, TWO MONTHS, TWO CAMINOS
Join me as I talk with Melbourne, Australia, mums Dawn and Fiona about their pilgrimage on the Camino Francés.
>> Learn why they decided to use a company to book their accommodations and luggage transport (I bet you haven't heard this reason before!).
>> Find out how you deal with the judgements of other pilgrims who think you should be doing the Camino their way.
>> Listen in as we discuss how to manage dietary restrictions on the Camino.
WALKING THE CAMINO FRANCÉS?
Here is everything you need to get started, all in one place: The Camino Francés Getting Started Audio Guide.
Or email Nancy for more information: youonthecamino@gmail.com
Thank you Eddie, Trond, Maurice, James, Muriel, Maura, Stewart, Evan, Xavier, Clare, Gretty, Joelle, Carolyn, John, Liz, June, Barbara, Lynn, George, Adam, and Claire for trusting me and for allowing me to share in your Camino journey.
BE A GUEST ON THIS PODCAST!
If you are walking a winter pilgrimage from November through March, or if you are walking your first Camino in 2024, I would love to hear from you! Let me know you are interested in being a guest on the podcast here.
#youonthecamino
#caminodesantiago
#firsttimepilgrim
#thecaminoexperience
#caminopodcast

Aug 1, 2023 • 46min
S3 Ep 2: After the Camino with Pilgrim Laura
SARRIA TO SANTIAGO IN 7 DAYS
In this episode we hear from pilgrim Laura who walked from Sarria to Santiago with her daughter, Emily. They booked all of their accommodations, meals, and luggage transport services in advance with Spanish Steps. What makes this the best option for some pilgrims? Let's see what Laura has to say.
Also, Laura was lucky to be at the pilgrim's mass in Santiago de Compostela on a day when they used the botafumeiro? Find out what that was like and where to sit in the Cathedral to get the most out of the experience.
BE THE FIRST TO GET THE AUDIO GUIDE
The Camino Francés Getting Started Audio Guide launches on August 3! But only to those pilgrims who are on my email list by August 1 (the following week for everyone else). Click or tap here to get on my email list.
Important: Be sure to open the email with the top tips and click on the link to confirm your subscription!
Related: Listen to Laura's first interview here.
#youonthecamino
#caminodesantiago
#firsttimepilgrim
#thecaminoexperience
#caminopodcast

Jul 25, 2023 • 43min
S3 Ep 1: Season Three Kickoff plus After the Camino with George and John
PART 2: A STORY OF LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP
George and John (season three, episode 19) are back to share how their Camino walk went. Wait until you hear how this wrapped up! (starts at 18:30 mins)
Also in this episode, I share my own Camino story and give you a preview of what's to come in season three of the podcast. Thank you for tuning in!
COMING SOON!
Be the first to know when the Camino Francés Getting Started Audio Guide is ready!
Sign up for my email list and also get your free copy of my Top 10 Camino Tips (that don't usually show up on the top 10 lists).
SHARE YOUR TOP CAMINO TIPS
Have you already walked one of the Camino routes? If yes, then I know you have tons of great tips to share! If you would like to share your tips with my listeners, please send them over using this form. I will let you know when they will be aired, and I will also share whatever details you send me regarding which route and when you walked. Thank you for sharing!
Related: Listen to the first conversation with George and John and read about Aaron's tragic passing.
#youonthecamino
#caminodesantiago
#firsttimepilgrim
#thecaminoexperience
#caminopodcast

Jun 6, 2023 • 35min
S2 Ep 20: Season Two Wrap Up / Looking Ahead
STORIES FROM THE TRAIL
In this final episode of season two of the “YOU on the Camino de Santiago” podcast I share current stories from my time on the Camino in May-June 2023. That includes updates on what my pilgrim guests from season two are up to as they make their ways across Spain on the various Camino routes.
I also share some top tips for staying safe on the trail and managing your expectations about the weather. And I am happy to share some of my favorite places to stay on the Francés route.
This episode wraps up with a preview of coming attractions, such as what is in store in season three, the projects I am working on for you, and how you can participate in this podcast.
It has been a pleasure sharing this time with you. Wishing you a beautiful Camino journey . . .
xo
Nancy
WALK WITH ME IN 2024
Registration for all 2024 Camino Experience groups starts on September 1. Find out more here.
GET ON MY EMAIL LIST AND DON’T MISS A THING!
And by the way, you will also receive a free copy of Nancy’s Top 10 Camino Tips (that don’t usually show up on the top 10 lists). Sign up here.
CONTACT ME
Just want to say hola and share your Camino plans with me? Or do you have an idea for a podcast episode for season three? I would love love love to hear from you! You can email me at: youonthecamino@gmail.com
BE A GUEST ON THIS PODCAST
What made you decide to walk the Camino de Santiago? Is it a calling? Are you feeling compelled? Have life circumstances turned you on your head and you’re thinking a long walk could help put things right?
I would love to help you tell your story. I am currently lining up guests for season three of the podcast. If you are getting ready to make your first ever pilgrimage on one of the Camino routes, I would love to hear from you. Please let me know you are interested here. Or you can send an email to youonthecamino@gmail.com
FAVORITE PLACES TO STAY
From east to west
Pensión Escaray, Pamplona
The Stone Boat, Rabanal del Camino
Casa Susi, Trabadelo
El Puente Peregrino, Trabadelo
Vagabond Vieiras and Rock & Roll Pizza, La Portela de Valcarce
Related: Missed an episode? You can find them all here, and also on your favorite podcast player/app. Be sure to Follow or Subscribe so you don't miss the start of season three. And while you're at it, please give it a five-star rating and review! (xo ~ Nancy)
#youonthecamino
#caminodesantiago
#firsttimepilgrim
#thecaminoexperience
#caminopodcast

May 30, 2023 • 35min
S2 Ep 19: A Conversation with Two American Pilgrims as They Prepare to Walk the Camino Francés in Memory of a Friend
A STORY OF LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP
In June 2022 American pilgrim Aaron died suddenly and unexpectedly while walking the Camino de Santiago. In this week's episode we hear from Aaron's friend George, who will be walking the Camino in Aaron's memory and literally in his footsteps.
George's love for his Aaron is mirrored in his friendship with John, who will be joining him for the walk. Find out what is motivating these two men to walk the Camino Francés and why this story is so extraordinary.
Read about Aaron's Camino story by following the link below.
COME WALK WITH ME
Are you dreaming of walking your first Camino pilgrimage but are not quite sure how to pull it all together? Are you eager to walk the Camino but hesitant to set out alone? Let’s get started together! Click here to find out about starting your pilgrimage with the Camino Experience. (P.S. Sorry, registration for the September 2023 groups is closed.)
BE A GUEST ON THIS PODCAST
Are you getting ready to walk your first pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago? If you would like to share your story and receive some one-on-one assistance getting ready for your walk, please let me know by using this form. You can also contact my at youonthecaminno@gmail.com. Thank you!
SHARE YOUR TOP CAMINO TIPS
Have you already walked one of the Camino routes? If yes, then I know you have tons of great tips to share! If you would like to share your tips with my listeners, please send them over using this form. I will let you know when they will be aired, and I will also share whatever details you send me regarding which route and when you walked. Thank you for sharing!
Related: Read Aaron's Camino story here.
#youonthecamino
#caminodesantiago
#firsttimepilgrim
#thecaminoexperience
#caminopodcast

May 23, 2023 • 1h 16min
S2 Ep 18: A Conversation with Pilgrim Chad Before His First Pilgrimage on the Camino Francés
FIRST TIME BUT NOT THE FIRST TIME
Pilgrim Chad walked the Caminho Português with his wife and daughters and now is headed for his first solo walk on the Camino Francés.
In this episode you will hear Chad's three top tips for first-time pilgrims, along with his expectations for the inner journey of his upcoming pilgrimage.
We also talk about the best places to take a rest day, how to cope with loneliness on the trail, and what it means to go for a long walk with God. Enjoy!
COME WALK WITH ME
Are you dreaming of walking your first Camino pilgrimage but are not quite sure how to pull it all together? Are you eager to walk the Camino but hesitant to set out alone? Let’s get started together! Click here to find out about starting your pilgrimage with the Camino Experience.
BE A GUEST ON THIS PODCAST
Are you getting ready to walk your first pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago? If you would like to share your story and receive some one-on-one assistance getting ready for your walk, please let me know by using this form. You can also contact my at youonthecaminno@gmail.com. Thank you!
SHARE YOUR TOP CAMINO TIPS
Have you already walked one of the Camino routes? If yes, then I know you have tons of great tips to share! If you would like to share your tips with my listeners, please send them over using this form. I will let you know when they will be aired, and I will also share whatever details you send me regarding which route and when you walked. Thank you for sharing!
Related: For a fabulous rest day upgrade on the Camino Francés, check out The Stone Boat in Rabanal del Camino. Reservations available through https://www.booking.com/.
#youonthecamino
#caminodesantiago
#firsttimepilgrim
#thecaminoexperience
#caminopodcast

May 16, 2023 • 1h 1min
S2 Ep 17: A Conversation with Pilgrim Nancy (F) as She Prepares to Walk the Camino Francés
WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST FEAR REGARDING WALKING THE CAMINO?
In this conversation with pilgrim Nancy (F), we talk about Camino magic, coincidences, and the gift of the Camino to heal one’s heart after deep loss. And we finally get to a pilgrim's biggest fear.
We also get super practical, with app and guidebook recommendations, tips for how to manage cash and credit cards on the Camino, whether to fly or take the train to Pamplona (on the Francés route), and how to connect with local pilgrims as you prepare for your pilgrimage.
BE A GUEST ON THIS PODCAST!
Are you getting ready to walk your first pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago? If you would like to share your story and receive some one-on-one assistance getting ready for your walk, please let me know by using this form. You can also contact my at youonthecaminno@gmail.com. Thank you!
SHARE YOUR TOP CAMINO TIPS!
Have you already walked one of the Camino routes? If yes, then I know you have tons of great tips to share! If you would like to share your tips with my listeners, please send them over using this form. I will let you know when they will be aired, and I will also share whatever details you send me regarding which route and when you walked. Thank you for sharing!
THE RESOURCES WE DISCUSSED:
The Walk of a Lifetime, by Russ Eanes
Village to Village Guide, by Anna Dintaman & David Landis
Find a local chapter plus a ton of helpful information on the American pilgrims website.
The Gronze website, for full listings of places to stay on the many Camino routes.
The CAMIGAS group on Facebook
#youonthecamino
#caminodesantiago
#firsttimepilgrim
#thecaminoexperience
#caminopodcast

May 9, 2023 • 57min
S2 Ep 16: Conversation with Yana as She Prepares to Walk the Caminho Português
"YOU HAVE TO GO ALONE!"
Yana, a Boston mom of two young boys, shares with us her experiences of preparing to walk the Caminho Português and helps us answer some tough questions:
Where (or when) does the Camino really start?
What do you do when a friend says you have to go alone?
How do you stay “in the moment” when you are preparing to walk the Camino?
What are the yellow arrows and why do we love them?
How do you know if you need to book beds in advance or if you can just turn up each day?
BE A GUEST ON SEASON THREE OF THIS PODCAST!
Let me know you are interested by submitting the podcast guest request form. I am looking for first-time pilgrims planning to walk September through December, 2023, and any time in 2024, any route.
GET YOUR FREE COPY OF NANCY'S TOP 10 CAMINO TIPS (that don't usually make the top 10 lists)
And join my email list to receive weekly tips and updates about the Camino de Santiago.
WALK WITH ME IN 2023!
Let's set up a Zoom call to talk about your Camino dreams and joining one of my September getting-started Camino groups. Not walking in 2023? No problem, the tentative dates for 2024 are here, too.
AMERICANS, GET YOUR CREDENCIAL HERE
Americans can get their pilgrim Credencial before they leave home by visiting the website for the American Pilgrims on the Camino organization. https://americanpilgrims.org/request-a-credential/
Related: Andrea and Jason have inspired a lot of pilgrims! Check out our conversation here. https://thecaminoexperience.com/andrea-and-jason-walk-camino-frances/
#youonthecamino
#caminodesantiago
#firsttimepilgrim
#thecaminoexperience
#caminopodcast

May 2, 2023 • 48min
S2 Ep 15: A Conversation with Pilgrim Laura About Her Upcoming Walk from Sarria to Santiago
WALKING (only???) SARRIA TO SANTIAGO
Walking the Camino your way is tricky business for some people, but not for Laura and her daughter, who will be walking from Sarria to Santiago in June 2023.
Find out why they are using a tour company to plan and execute their Camino, and how this fits perfectly with their reasons for completing the pilgrimage.
We cover a lot of ground in this conversation, including the long answers on why you would use trekking poles on the Camino and where to stay in Madrid.
JOIN NANCY'S EMAIL LIST,
and get your free copy of the Camino Planning Roadmap, plus weekly emails with Camino-focused tips to get you started on your pilgrimage on the right foot.
HOW TO USE THOSE TREKKING POLES
Check out this video by perpetual pilgrim, Dr. Guylene Gigi Tree to learn how to get the most out of your poles when walking the Camino.
Related: Wondering what questions you need to ask when considering a tour company for your Camino pilgrimage?
#youonthecamino
#caminodesantiago
#firsttimepilgrim
#thecaminoexperience
#caminopodcast