43: Hiking for Visibility: Ryan Schepers’ Appalachian Trail…

About this episode

Hiking for Visibility: Ryan Schepers’ Appalachian Trail Journey for LGBTQ+ InclusionSummaryJoin us as Ryan Schepers shares his journey of discovering his queerness through nature, his path in environmental science, and his upcoming Appalachian Trail hike to raise awareness and support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the outdoors. This conversation explores how curiosity, community, and authenticity can shape our lives—and inspire others to get outside and be fully themselves.Key Topics Ryan’s background in environmental science and cellular biology The intersection of queerness and the natural world The importance of community and representation in outdoor spaces Ryan’s Appalachian Trail hike and fundraising efforts How curiosity and exploration fuel personal growth Chapters00:00 – Introduction to the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast 01:32 – Ryan’s connection to nature 03:53 – Growing up in Ohio and early outdoor experiences 09:08 – Curiosity and exploration in nature 11:25 – Education and career in environmental science 14:51 – Adventure, biking, and community engagement 17:57 – Plant science and ecosystem restoration 18:18 – Queerness in nature 20:58 – Personal coming out journey 23:29 – Community and self-discovery 26:30 – Connecting identity and the outdoors 29:22 – Preparing for the Appalachian Trail 32:14 – Representation in outdoor spaces 34:55 – Encouraging others to explore nature 37:58 – Fundraising for LGBTQ Outdoors 41:04 – Final thoughts and call to actionSupport Ryan’s FundraiserRyan is hiking the Appalachian Trail to support LGBTQ Outdoors and increase visibility in outdoor spaces. 👉 Donate here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/ryan-schepers-hiking-fundraiser Resources LGBTQ Outdoors: https://lgbtqoutdoors.com Trailblazers Society: https://lgbtqoutdoors.com/trailblazer Ryan Schepers on Instagram: https://instagram.com/lumberjerk KeywordsLGBTQ outdoors, Appalachian Trail, environmental science, queer identity, outdoor community, LGBTQ+ visibility, hiking fundraiser, nature exploration, diversity in the outdoors, outdoor advocacyHelp support this podcast and the LGBTQ Outdoors mission by joining The Trailblazers Society. To learn more about LGBTQ Outdoors, visit our website.