Pretty Good at Talking

In 2018, the Strawbridge family - including four kids aged 11 to 16 - walked from Canada to Mexico along the Pacific Crest Trail. Their story is told in the book ”Pretty Good at Walking,” but a 2,650-mile journey creates more stories than one book can hold. Join author Vince Strawbridge as he sits down with the colorful characters who shaped his family’s adventure - from trail angels and fellow hikers to musicians and mountain guides. Each episode reveals a new perspective on shared moments from the trail, exploring how individual journeys intertwine to create the unique culture of the PCT. Whether you’re a long-distance hiker, an armchair adventurer, or simply love a good story, Pretty Good at Talking invites you to discover the community that makes the Pacific Crest Trail more than just a path through the wilderness.

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Episodes

20 minutes ago

In this episode of Pretty Good at Talking, host Vince Strawbridge converses with Angie Hashioka, a significant figure in his family's journey along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). They reminisce about their friendship, the challenges faced on the trail, and the support received from friends. Angie shares her experiences as a trail angel, providing care and comfort during a critical moment in the hike. The conversation explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the beauty of nature, while also reflecting on personal growth and the memories created along the way. In this conversation, Vince Strawbridge reflects on his experiences hiking the Pacific Crest Trail with his family, discussing the nuances of storytelling, the connections made with fellow hikers, and the lessons learned from frustration and misunderstanding. He shares insights on the impact of health on hiking experiences, recounts survival stories that foster personal growth, and reflects on the importance of shared experiences in parenting. The conversation culminates in a discussion about inspiring others through adventure and the value of finding joy in life's simple moments.
 
Be sure to check out Vince's new book on Amazon: Pretty Good at Walking: A family journey https://a.co/d/aGKzQ1x
 
Takeaways
 
Angie Hashioka played a crucial role as a trail angel during the PCT journey.
Friendship can provide essential support during challenging times.
The contrast between life in Florida and California shapes perspectives on nature.
The decision to hike the PCT was influenced by a desire for new experiences.
Physical challenges on the trail can lead to unexpected moments of connection.
Medical care and recovery are vital for hikers facing injuries.
Memories of friendship are often tied to both joyful and difficult experiences.
The concept of providence suggests that help arrives when needed most.
Halloween on the trail created unique and memorable experiences.
Reflections on parenting reveal the growth and independence of children. Storytelling involves nuances that can be corrected with feedback.
Connections with fellow hikers enrich the hiking experience.
Frustration can lead to unexpected positive outcomes.
Health issues can significantly impact outdoor adventures.
Survival experiences can lead to personal growth and reflection.
Parenting involves shared experiences that shape relationships.
Adventure can inspire others to explore the outdoors.
Finding joy in simple moments is essential for happiness.
It's important to slow down and appreciate life.
Every experience contributes to a larger narrative of resilience.
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to the Journey
03:13 The Significance of Trail Angels
06:06 Recollections of Soccer and Friendship
09:05 Life in Florida vs. California
11:57 The Decision to Hike the PCT
14:51 Challenges on the Trail
18:07 The Rescue and Support from Friends
21:02 Medical Care and Recovery
24:01 Memories and Scars of Friendship
26:51 The Role of Providence on the Trail
30:03 Halloween on the Trail
32:53 Symbolism in the Journey
36:06 Reconnecting in Idlewild
39:04 Reflections on Kaia's Growth
41:51 Independence and Parenting
44:32 Navigating Nuances in Storytelling
47:15 Connecting with Fellow Hikers
49:36 Lessons from Frustration and Misunderstanding
52:46 The Impact of Health on Hiking Experiences
01:00:00 Survival Stories: A Journey of Growth
01:12:21 Reflections on Parenting and Shared Experience
s
01:20:58 Inspiring Others Through Adventure
 
 

4 days ago

Show Notes
Buy Vince's Book: Pretty Good at Walking: A family journey https://a.co/d/1l60Hj8
 
Summary
In this episode of Pretty Good at Talking, Vince Strawbridge interviews his daughter June about her experience hiking the Pacific Crest Trail at the age of 14. They discuss the challenges, triumphs, and personal growth that came from the journey, as well as the impact it had on their family dynamics. June shares her thoughts on the mental strategies she employed to keep going, the relationships she built with her siblings, and the lessons learned from the trail. The conversation highlights the importance of perseverance, the joy of nature, and the lasting memories created during their adventure.
 
Takeaways
June was excited yet nervous about the hike.
The journey tested June's resolve and shaped her character.
Mental strategies helped June cope with the challenges of hiking.
Milestones along the trail boosted June's confidence.
Memorable moments in Oregon included beautiful landscapes and encounters with other hikers.
The hike strengthened relationships among family members.
Physical struggles were a significant part of the experience.
Trail magic moments provided unexpected joy and support.
June learned valuable lessons about perseverance and self-discovery.
The experience changed June's perspective on challenges and growth.
 
Quotes
"I think I felt like... Now we're really doing it."
"I think I may take it a little for granted now."
"I think it'll be fun."
“Hey Daddo, I just thought of something.”
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Journey
04:23 Excitement and Apprehension Before the Hike
07:20 First Impressions on the Trail
10:24 Mental Strategies During the Hike
13:23 Milestones and Achievements
16:12 Memorable Experiences in Oregon
19:19 Reflections on Relationships and Emotions
22:22 Physical Challenges and Injuries
25:21 Inventions and Daydreams on the Trail
31:16 The Journey Begins: Reflections on Hiking
33:28 Key Moments and Encounters on the Trail
36:17 Nature's Beauty and Personal Growth
40:22 Overcoming Challenges and Mental Resilience
45:49 The Transition to the Desert: A New Perspective
50:33 Life Lessons from the Trail
54:10 Memorable Experiences and Surprises
57:40 The Impact of the Journey on Relationships
01:03:03 Journey on the Pacific Crest Trail
01:03:34 Reflections on Adventure and Growth

Wednesday Jan 15, 2025

In this episode of Pretty Good at Talking, we drop in on a conversation between three remarkable moms who have each completed the Triple Crown of hiking with their families, Monica Strawbridge, Mindi Bennett, and Danae Netteburg. They share their extraordinary experiences, challenges, and the joys of hiking with children. The conversation delves into the planning, the dynamics of family life on the trail, the lessons learned about resilience and grit, and the transition back to normal life after such an adventure. Through laughter and shared stories, they reflect on the impact of these journeys on their families and the bonds formed along the way.
 
Strawbridges:
Buy a copy of Vince's book PRETTY GOOD AT WALKING on Amazon at: https://a.co/d/04U4id8
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/strawbridgetreks
Bennetts:
Buy a copy of Mindi Bennet's book KIDS OUT WILD on Amazon at:https://a.co/d/5gds3X1
 
Netteburgs:
 
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danae.netteburg
 
Takeaways
 
The Triple Crown of hiking is a significant achievement for families.
 
Planning and preparation are crucial for long hikes with children.
 
Daily routines on the trail can foster family bonding.
 
Food choices and cooking strategies are essential for trail life.
 
Interactions with other hikers enrich the experience.
 
Teaching kids resilience and grit is a valuable lesson from hiking.
 
Transitioning back to normal life can be challenging after such adventures.
 
The simplicity of trail life contrasts sharply with everyday life.
 
Sharing responsibilities and roles within the family is important on the trail.
 
The memories created on these hikes are treasured by families.
 
Quotes
 
"We had to be like, are we done?"
"It's just like a thruhike."
"We can't just do two thirds."
 
Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to the Triple Crown Families
10:58 The Journey Begins: Motivation and Planning
16:38 Reactions from Family and Friends
21:21 Trail Experiences: Highlights and Challenges
31:10 Keeping Spirits Up on the Trail
33:55 Navigating Physical Challenges on the Trail
35:20 Family Dynamics and Motivation
37:13 Finding Joy in Hiking with Kids
39:07 Adjusting Hiking Strategies Over Time
40:56 Training and Preparation for Long Hikes
42:13 Roles and Responsibilities in Hiking Families
43:07 Cooking and Meal Preparation on the Trail
44:36 Food Choices and Nutrition for Hikers
48:22 Organizing Resupply and Camp Chores
50:44 Managing Guilt and Expectations as Parents
53:01 Injuries and Health Concerns on the Trail
55:18 The Importance of Group Dynamics
57:03 Facing Fears and Challenges in the Wilderness
01:05:11 Navigating Scary Moments on the Trail
01:16:09 Transitioning Back to Normal Life
01:21:59 The Impact of Hiking on Kids' Lives
01:34:58 Introduction to Trail Adventures and Family Journeys
01:35:25 Exploring Family Stories in Nature

Thursday Jan 09, 2025

Follow Jon Schwarze on Instagram
Volunteer with Los Padres Trail Crew
Buy Vince's Book: Pretty Good at Walking: A family journey 
 
In this conversation, Jon Schwarze shares his unique experience of yo-yoing the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), discussing his motivations, training, and the challenges he faced along the way. He reflects on the mental and physical aspects of long-distance hiking, the importance of community, and the personal growth he experienced throughout his journey.
 
Jon emphasizes resilience, the joy of adventure, and the significance of pushing one's limits in both hiking and life. In this segment of the conversation, he shares his experiences and challenges faced while hiking, focusing on the physical and emotional toll of long-distance trekking. He discusses the importance of self-care, the joy of witnessing nature, and the mental challenges of isolation. The conversation also delves into the strategies for coping with adverse weather conditions and the significance of setting realistic goals while pushing personal limits. Vince and Jon share their experiences on the trail, discussing the significance of trail names, the importance of community and food, and the challenges they faced in the wilderness, including moments of hypothermia and the relief of reaching safety. They reflect on the connections made with fellow hikers and the unexpected encounters that enriched their journey, emphasizing the value of human interaction in the great outdoors. In this conversation, Vince and Jon reflect on their memorable hiking experiences, the growth of young hikers, and the profound lessons learned from their time on the trail. They discuss the emotional journey of hiking, the dynamics of teamwork, and the challenges of transitioning back to normal life after such an immersive experience. The conversation highlights the importance of connections made during hiking adventures and the lasting impact these experiences have on personal growth.
 
Chapters
01:00 Introduction to John Schwarze and His Journey
05:05 Family and Friends' Reactions to the Adventure
10:41 The Adventure vs. Time Frame Perspective
15:07 Experiencing the Beauty of the Trail
19:39 Resilience and Overcoming Adversity
25:28 Metabolism and Caloric Needs
29:08 Reflecting on Athletic Identity
30:41 Physical and Emotional Challenges on the Trail
31:25 Coping with Physical and Emotional Exhaustion
33:42 The Importance of Self-Care on the Trail
35:48 Finding Joy in Early Mornings and Sunsets
37:42 Pushing Limits: The Balance of Miles and Enjoyment
38:20 Setting Goals and Managing Expectations
40:00 Experiencing the Trail: Changes in Seasons and Perspectives
42:16 Mental Challenges: Dealing with Isolation and Fatigue
43:46 Navigating Through Adversity: The Sierra Experience
50:06 Overcoming Hypothermia: A Test of Willpower
55:25 Weathering the Storm: Strategy and Adaptation
59:55 The Story of Trail Names and Encounters
01:02:07 Moments of Connection in the Wilderness
01:05:00 The Importance of Food and Community
01:09:00 Surviving the Elements: Tales of Hypothermia
01:11:05 The Journey Beyond the Sierra
01:14:59 Trail Magic and Unexpected Encounters
01:18:54 The Value of Human Connection on the Trail
01:28:35 Memorable Hiking Experiences
01:31:21 The Growth of Young Hikers
01:32:55 Lessons Learned from Hiking
01:35:52 Reflections on Team Dynamics
01:40:25 The Emotional Journey of Hiking
01:45:55 Transitioning Back to Normal Life
01:52:38 Exploring New Hiking Adventures
 
Takeaways:
The trail often provides in unexpected ways.
Human connections can enhance the hiking experience.
Setting arbitrary goals can motivate hikers.
Hiking can reveal the strengths and weaknesses of individuals.
Experiences on the trail foster deep connections between people.
Young hikers can develop resilience and maturity through outdoor challenges.
The simplicity of trail life can be more appealing than everyday life.
Reflecting on past experiences can lead to personal growth and understanding.
Team dynamics play a crucial role in outdoor adventures.
Emotional connections with others can be strengthened through shared experiences.
Transitioning back to normal life can be challenging after an immersive experience.
Volunteering for trail maintenance can enhance community and environmental awareness.
Setting lofty goals can lead to increased confidence and achievement.

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