Mighty Blue On The Appalachian Trail: The Ultimate Mid-Life Crisis

Episode #591 - Days 196-198 Appalachian Trail 2026 Oct 29, 2026 27:16 I don't believe I give in to hyperbole that often, but these last three days have been the most dramatic of my entire thru-hike. Two separate visits to the Emergency Room would tend to support that assertion! It's been real! Along the way, I managed to grab a few minutes with Jana, the new, proud owner of Angels Rest Hostel. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like t

Episode #590 - Days 192-195 Appalachian Trail 2026 Oct 26, 2026 43:27 Nate and Amanda have gone home and I'm now hiking with Nuke again, as well as Lizard King. It is great to be in a small tramily as the hike draws to a close. Along the way, I chatted with Huck, from Huckleberry's Hostel, as well as both Mike and Lizard King. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to follow my progress between episodes, as well as photos of my journ

Episode #589 - Days 189-191 Appalachian Trail 2026 Oct 22, 2026 29:33 We're closing in on the end of this somewhat circuitous hike, with less than ten days and just over 100 miles to go. Many times, this has felt a fool's errand and an impossible task, yet here I am, on the brink of a third successful thru-hike on this difficult trail. I just hope my leg holds out! Along the way, I managed to record Nate's thoughts as he is about to head back home himself after a co

Episode #588 - Days 185-188 Appalachian Trail 2026 Oct 20, 2026 33:51 With less than 200 miles to go, Nate and I were joined by my friend, Amanda Aguilard, forming our southbound tramily for three days. We got cold but loved the challenge. Along the way, I had a chat with Adam Stanley, or Stanimal, and his lovely partner, Megs. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to follow my progress between episodes, as well as photos of my jou

Episode #587 - Days 182-184 Appalachian Trail 2026 Oct 15, 2026 20:17 Virginia is providing us with spectacularly beautiful views and leaf-peeping, as well as some of the wettest and hottest days of this trip. Along with that, the hiking is challenging but definitely doable. The really good news is that I'm on target to finish this hike on my 74th birthday. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to follow my progress between episodes

Episode #586 - Days 178-181 Appalachian Trail 2026 Oct 12, 2026 30:23 These past four days have been spent hiking with Nate, and in the last couple of days, we have been blessed by our personal trail angel, Katie Westling. We're crushing the miles and I'm now just 236 miles from the end. Along the way, I met Leah, or Piph, a cousin of a former guest, Chrissy Funk. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to follow my progress between

Episode #585 - Days 175-177 Appalachian Trail 2026 Oct 8, 2026 31:06 I'm now in a tramily of two, having been joined by my buddy, Nate for a few weeks. We're in Shenandoah and loving the smooth ride the trail gives us, not to mention the occasional wayside at which to stock up on calories. Along the way, I caught up with, if only temporarily, Slomo, a fast hiker putting in 25-30 mile days. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to f

Episode #584 - Days 171-174 Appalachian Trail 2026 Oct 7, 2026 41:03 Sorry for the delay in getting this out to you. Suffice it to say that I've had one or two technical issues!! I'm nearly a week into the SOBO part of my Appalachian Trail hike this year and the pieces are falling into place for my desire to finish this hike on my 74th birthday at the end of October. Along the way, I chatted with hostel and B&B owners, Scott and Lisa, as well as the only Latvians I

Episode #583 - Days 168-170 Appalachian Trail 2026 Oct 1, 2026 33:28 There is a bit of everything in today's show, with an epic Katahdin day, a dicey travel day, and my first day heading south, out of Harper's Ferry. Along the way, I got T-time and Hugh to share their experiences up on the greatest mountain. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to follow my progress between episodes, as well as photos of my journey, please go

Episode #582 - Days 164-167 Appalachian Trail 2026 Sep 29, 2026 34:57 The 100 Mile Wilderness and the impending weather changed our plans several times this week. So, instead of taking nine days to get through it, we pushed on and got out in 7 days. Then, last Saturday, we reached Baxter State Park and stayed at Katahdin Stream Campground before our summit day on Sunday. Sadly, this episode covers from Wednesday until Saturday, so you'll have to wait until next time

Episode #581 - Days 161-163 Appalachian Trail 2026 Sep 26, 2026 34:38 It's been a long time coming, with cell service almost non-existent in the 100 Mile Wilderness, but I'm at last able to bring you Thursday's podcast. This covers our foray into the wilderness with our full packs for the first time. It's been a blast. Along the way, I met Detour, a fellow NOBO, as well as the remarkable Crutches, whose name gives you a clue! I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thr

Episode #580 - Days 157-160 Appalachian Trail 2026 Sep 21, 2026 28:55 We've reached Shaw's in Monson, AND done the first 30 miles of the 100 Mile Wilderness. Maine continues to impress us, with stiff climbs and stunning views. It has become my favorite state on the Appalachian Trail. Oh yes, and I managed to go more than two miles the wrong way the other day. Oops! I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to follow my progress between

Episode #579 - Days 154-156 Appalachian Trail 2026 Sep 17, 2026 27:11 The three days from Sunday saw a nearo, a zero, and a near 15-miler. All part of the magic of an Appalachian Trail thru-hike. But I'm currently in Monson and ready to take on the 100 Mile Wilderness. Along the way, I spoke with Andrew, or Detour, a fellow Brit on the verge of completing his own AT journey. Unfortunately , I forgot to take his photo! I was also lucky enough to run into my friend fr

Episode #578 - Days 150-153 Appalachian Trail 2026 Sep 14, 2026 46:42 We lost one of our tramily this week, as Nuke pushed forward to achieve his summit several days before us in order to honor a friend back home. With much of the difficulty of Maine behind us—and Katahdin our only big climb ahead of us—we now have our plan settled for a September 29 finish, completing a circle, as that is the date I summited 12 years ago. Along the way, I spoke with Brandon, a late

Episode #577 - Days 147-149 Appalachian Trail 2026 Sep 10, 2026 36:20 After our Slackpack Palooza into Rangely, we resumed our full packs for the three day hike to Stratton. It had been wonderful to have been so cosseted by our friends, Sherpa and Rita, but it was time to get back in the woods and camp at tentsites. Along the way, I ran into Mel, leading a project to maintain integrity of the trail, and Chris, the new owner, along with his mother, of the Maine Roadh

Episode #576 - Days 143-146 Appalachian Trail 2026 Sep 7, 2026 26:25 A four day slackpack Palooza!! Staying with friends for four nights and having them slackpacking you is a treat, and that is exactly what we've been doing for the last four days. We've enjoyed the reduced load and put in about 50 miles; it's great to be making progress. Unfortunately, we've been in our own bubble because of this and I haven't found people to interview. We'll be with our full packs

Episode #575 - Days 139-142 Appalachian Trail 2026 Sep 3, 2026 41:34 We're into Maine now and if we thought we'd left our difficult days in the past, we were sorely mistaken. My ass has continued to be kicked and The Mahoosuc Notch revealed a lethal side in the wet. It's been quite the experience so far. Along the way, we found a new member of our tramily, in T-Time, as well as a young man named Badger. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If

Episode #574 - Days 136-138 Appalachian Trail 2026 Aug 31, 2026 38:37 The miles have been cut back drastically, yet we are on the verge of leaving New Hampshire behind and entering Maine. It has been both glorious and difficult, a challenge I expected, yet probably underestimated. Along the way, I was able to chat with Lisa, one of the new owners of the Libby House, Evie, the caretaker at the Imp Tentsite, and Baptist, a foraging SOBO, who shares a few mushroom secr

Episode #573 - Days 133-135 Appalachian Trail 2026 Aug 27, 2026 23:24 New Hampshire has taken its toll on our weekly mileage, but the beauty and difficulty of the trail up here is staggering in both regards. My memory is also getting a bit of a workout, as I'm seeing the trail with fresh eyes that don't always comport with my previous two thru-hikes. along the way, I spoke with Ron, or Real Estate, a guy we've been hiking around. I'm using Polarsteps to record my A

Episode #572 - Days 129-132 Appalachian Trail 2026 Aug 24, 2026 34:59 New Hampshire has been doing New Hampshire things, like kicking my butt, giving me spectacular daily views, and providing Nuke and me with some of the best hiking of this trip so far. The Kinsman's and Franconia Ridge are now in the rear view mirror, with the Presidential Range still to come. Along the way, my exhaustion at the end of the day has limited my interviews, though I do have a friend, M

Episode #571 - Days 126-128 Appalachian Trail 2026 Aug 20, 2026 29:55 We're not only pushing through New Hampshire, but we've reached the spot where the rubber meets the road; namely, Mt Moosilauke, the first of the 4000-footers that we climb. It was an exhilarating climb, yet one well within my capabilities. Along the way, I chatted with Nuke, my hiking partner who I first interviewed just after Caledonia State Park, in Pennsylvania. I wanted him to give his impres

Episode #570 - Days 122-125 Appalachian Trail 2026 Aug 17, 2026 41:28 We're at last in New Hampshire, and the drama is ramping up, with longer, higher, and more intense climbs. From previous experience, I know that I've only done the easiest section of New Hampshire so far, but I'm ready to embrace Moosilauke by the time we meet next time. one morning, in a shelter on a rainy day, I managed to speak with a young couple out on a thru-hike, Moss Man and Chapstick, whi

Episode #569 - Days 119-121 Appalachian Trail 2026 Aug 13, 2026 18:35 A very short episode today, with just three days to report and no interviews. Such are the problems of reporting from a trail with limited WiFi opportunities!! I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to follow my progress between episodes, as well as photos of my journey, please go to https://www.polarsteps.com/mightyblue and click on the follow button. I used my hi

Episode #568 - Days 115-118 Appalachian Trail 2026 Aug 10, 2026 48:06 Vermont has been an unexpected pleasure. I don't recall it giving me such great hiking last time, and that, along with new and old friends, has made this last state before the"Big Two" a time of pure joy. Along the way, I met Thais at the Wicked Waystation hostel and father and son duo, Polechar and Forrest, who completed their own thru-hike just days ago. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT th

Episode #567 - Days 112-114 Appalachian Trail 2026 Aug 6, 2026 39:50 We're in damp Vermont right now, with the mud and water making things a touch more tricky. The trail continues to be challenging, with the sure knowledge that it is only going to get tougher going forward. Along the way, I met a bunch of very happy SOBOs; Fruitbag, Slip, Plus One, and Flossy.their enthusiasm for the trail left quite the mark on me. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hik

Episode #566 - Days 108-111 Appalachian Trail 2026 Aug 3, 2026 47:51 With record amounts of rainfall this week in Massachusetts, Nuke and I decided to wait it out during a zero day in Lee. Once we got back on trail the following day, we had to cope with swollen stream crossings that soaked us, as well as paths that became streams. During all of this I managed to fall a couple of time, of course. Along the way, I chatted with Nat Geo, Dash, and the wonderful Renée.

Episode #565 - Days 105-107 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jul 30, 2026 34:56 It's been another week of concern over my recent falls, but also one where I've had to manage my hike more proactively. I had a zero day in an attempt to reset and, by and large, I'm happy with how the past few days have gone. Along the way, I had a good conversation with a hiker's mother, Ann who, like all mothers, was concerned for her daughter's safety on trail. In addition, I met Cait, or Fes

Episode #564 - Days 101-104 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jul 27, 2026 38:41 With the rocks finding new ways to hurt me, I'm falling a little too often for comfort. I'm now into Massachusetts, so I know that the rocks will only grow more vicious as I head north. I need to work out what's happening before I hurt myself really badly. Along the way, I had conversations with some fellow travelers. First, I met Brian, or B. Then, I ran into two indomitable young women, Moose a

Episode #563 - Days 98-100 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jul 23, 2026 27:09 I'm into Connecticut now, with the terrain a little more benign than the past few weeks. Added to this, I'm on a bit of a slackpacking run with my friend, Dr Lynne, so my progress is good. i wasn't able to snag any other thru-hikers these past few days for interviews, though Lynne and I chatted about something I'd asked about last week. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If

Episode #562 - Days 94-97 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jul 20, 2026 47:47 Smoke from Canada and heat have conspired to test me this week, though it was the smoke that was likely more dangerous. That said, another state, New Tork, will be in the rear view mirror by this Tuesday. Along the way, I interviewed Bobo and Timberdoodle, as well as Jack, who is definitely looking for a trail name of his own. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like

Episode #561 - Days 91-93 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jul 16, 2026 29:11 It's been another steamy few days that have fully exhausted me. Miles have become harder due to my tiredness, not the terrain. I'm hoping a change in the weather will revive me once more. Along the way, I chatted with Mom, Opera, and son Sedimentary, or Sed. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to follow my progress between episodes, as well as photos of my jour

Episode #560 - Days 87-90 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jul 13, 2026 45:11 This week has given me several days of slackpacking, with generous listeners helping me out so freely. I couldn't have been more humbled to have been helped in this way. Along the way, I ran into a friend from 2019, Robbie, as well as his hiking partner, Starr. Also, one of my slackpacking friends, Steve, shared the story of his AT attempt a couple of years ago. I'm using Polarsteps to record

Episode #559 - Days 84-86 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jul 9, 2026 23:06 After the heat of last week, the temperatures have fallen and rain is starting to wash out the air. I've continued to put in the miles, including another 20-mile day that enabled me to get out of Pennsylvania. As a wise man once said, Pennsylvania sucks, but the people are great. Along the way, I managed to interview an incredibly shy Marley Joy, who headed up a group of wonderful Amish women to g

Episode #558 - Days 80-83 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jul 6, 2026 43:35 Our sweltering weather hit us hard this week, with a couple of days above 100°. Despite the searing heat, I've been able to maintain my mileage goals. The rocks have slowed me, though Pennsylvania hasn't been as bad as I recalled-fortunately!! Along the way, I chatted with Tig (Travis is good) about his thru-hike, as well as Bern, or Yardsale from the wonderful Lookout Hostel. Unfortunately, I for

Episode #557 - Day 77-79 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jul 2, 2026 37:09 We're facing a tough week or two of excessive heat, with this week the fiercest so far. With temperatures up in the late 90s and early 100s, I have to take this seriously. I've had to curtail my mileage but I still hope to walk sufficent miles to keep up my average. This week, I caught up with a young lady named Zoo as well as the owner of the Stay at Swatara hostel, Eric. I'm using Polarsteps to

Episode #556 - Days 73-76 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jun 29, 2026 27:41 The miles continue to pile up, with a twenty-mile day this week. It's true that the terrain is particularly conducive to twenty-mile plus days, yet I've been surprised at the speed at which I've been able to get back into the hike. I was only able to get one interview with other hikers these past few days; my old friend Bounce Da Hiker, who I met on my 2019 thru-hike. It was terrific to catch up w

Episode #555 - Days 70-72 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jun 25, 2026 41:42 I've been upping the mileage this week and am back to the levels I was achieving prior to my shin splints. I know, I need to be careful, but it is clear that I don't lose my "legs" during my enforced stoppage. This week, I ran into several new faces as well as some old faces. I interviewed Dennis the shuttle driver, Paddle and Lucky Charms after their successful Four State Challenge, and Nuke, who

Episode #554 - Days 66-69 Appalachian Trail 2026 Jun 22, 2026 31:36 At last, I'm back on trail, choosing Harper's Ferry as my start point to launch my hike to get to Katahdin before October. These first few days back on trail have been testing, as I knew they would be, but I've been pleasantly surprised at how well my body has switched back into hike mode, given the three weeks I've been back home. This week, I only managed to interview one other hiker, Breadcrumb

Episode #553 - Back to the trail and lessons learned Jun 18, 2026 25:56 This is a bit of a transition episode for the podcast. I wanted to talk about going back to the trail this week, but there isn't a great deal to say about it that I haven't already said. So this week I sat down and recorded a few reflections on what I've learned in forests and on mountains over the past twelve years. It's a little bit rough and ready, and I did i

Episode #552 - Greg Fisher (Dolphin) Jun 11, 2026 57:41 Today, Greg Fisher takes us back to the Appalachian Trail in the 1960s, when he and two other 16-year-olds took a 17-day hike on the trail in New Hampshire, taking in the awesome Franconia Ridge along the way. For Greg, that led to a more than 50 year love of the trail that continues to this day. He shares his stories with Steve a

Episode #551 - Steve Adams (Mighty Blue) - A.T. 2026 debrief Jun 4, 2026 45:33 As I did before when I finished the Appalachian Trail in 2019, I got a friend of mine, Glenn Hebert, from the Horse Radio Network, to debrief me following my decision to leave the trail last Thursday. It never feels good to report upon something which you've been unable to complete but, as you'll hear, I have a plan!! My disappointment at not finishing what I set ou

Episode #550 - Days 63-65 Appalachian Trail 2026 May 28, 2026 42:45 A whole bunch of zeroes as I try to recover from the recent injury to my leg. I've been patient and rested my leg, but the arrival of new Oboz shoes to replicate as closely as possible the sole of my previous boots, puts me close to returning to trail this coming Thursday. Bring it on! Along the way, I managed to grab conversations with Dumb Enough, Grateful, and Blarney Fife at Weary Feet Hostel.

Episode #549 - Days 59-62 Appalachian Trail 2026 May 25, 2026 40:31 A bit of a critical week to recap today, with an injury that landed me in the Emergency Room in Pearisburg. I'm currently off trail but working on getting back to trail in the coming days. Wish me well!! I also found time to chat with a couple of guys I've met on trail; Big John and Baloo. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to follow my progress between episode

Episode #548 - Days 56-58 Appalachian Trail 2026 May 21, 2026 40:26 I've reached the quarterway point of the Application Trail, and am getting dark thoughts about the weather in the next few months. It is already unseasonably warm, so June through August should be pretty alarming when they arrive. i now have a plan of completing 86 miles per week that would get me to Katahdin by the very end September. It means I'll have to up my game a bit, but I feel that now is

Episode #547 - Days 52-55 Appalachian Trail 2026 May 18, 2026 46:09 A bit of a break for me this time. It is mid May, and that means Trail Days in Damascus. Dave Santi and his buddies picked me up from about 60 trail miles north of Damascus and brought me back to their Airbnb. What a treat! So I was able to rest for much of the three days of the event AND buy some replacement shows. We'll see how much benefit I get from both of these things in the next couple of d

Episode #546 - Days 49-51 Appalachian Trail 2026 May 14, 2026 28:42 This week, I had my first experience of substantial rain, with the hike out of Damascus. This took us through a 20 mile detour which turned out to be very benign, compared with the previous detour several miles back. Along the way, I spoke with Alan Roberts, or Wizard, who was hiking with his 15-year-old son, Blood Foot. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to fo

Episode #545 - Days 45-48 Appalachian Trail 2026 May 11, 2026 38:24 Early seven weeks in and a weakness is appearing. My feet are starting to get to me everyday, with my boots clearly too small and my toes all getting bruised as a result. I hope to be able to resolve the issue with a new pair of size 15s by Trail Days, next week. My days are getting into the 16 mile realm, with two consecutive days at that mark. Along the way I interviewed Loretta and Morgan Dewe

Episode #544 - Days 42-44 Appalachian Trail 2026 May 7, 2026 35:02 These last three days started with the vast, glittering openness of the balds in the Roan Highlands, then sent me back into the forest for a night camping by myself and a new hostel discovery. This is such a diverse trail. Also, I was lucky enough to run into Uncle Fuzzy and Nono, each a new character to discover and I enjoyed their company. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year

Episode #543 - Days 38-41 Appalachian Trail 2026 May 4, 2026 42:59 Miraculously, the weather continues to cooperate as yet another four days pass without a minute walking in the rain! I'm in the Roan Highlands and coping well with both uphills and downhills; long may my body cooperate on this trail. This week, I also managed to talk with Carl, or Fresh, who experienced some of the serendipity on the trail to find his hiking partner. If you're interested in learni

Episode #542 - Days 35-37 Appalachian Trail 2026 Apr 30, 2026 41:17 I'm starting to manage aspects of my hike in a way I hadn't done so before now. Everything seems to have its own place, and each thing that arises during the day is another piece of the hike to be managed. My pace is starting to increase, as is my mileage. I'm also being reintroduced the wonders of the South; the balds. At the same time, I'm beginning to see startling evidence of the destruction w

Episode #541 - Days 31-34 Appalachian Trail 2026 Apr 27, 2026 34:51 Into month two with the miles increasing, I'm truly living in the woods now. Life seems to have become more feral, and the simplicity of my life agrees with my temperament right now. My loneliness seems to have gone away as I'm spending more time with others, and this week we hear from Bright Spot and Wolf, who I met along the way. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd

Episode #540 - Days 28-30 Appalachian Trail 2026 Apr 23, 2026 31:23 Dana came to visit me for a zero day this week. The Smokies are over and a record I hoped to beat while I was there remains intact!! Even with a relaxing zero with my love, I still had to prepare for my return to the trail the following day, so there is always plenty to do; even on zeroes. i managed to record Dana's reaction to seeing me as well as a conversation I had with a young German couple

Episode #539 - Days 24-27 Appalachian Trail 2026 Apr 20, 2026 36:32 The Smokies are all but done, with glorious weather all the way with just one day to go. I think I was more concerned about them than I should have been, but it has been a pure pleasure to be hiking above the clouds at 5-6,000 feet all day long. This recap covers last Wednesday thru Saturday, when I navigated the perils of Newfound Gap, needing to get to Gatlinburg, yet stay in Cherokee. Happily i

Episode #538 - Days 21-23 Appalachian Trail 2026 Apr 17, 2026 30:35 Into the Smokies this week for what feels like the end of the beginning. Cell service has been spotty at best, so getting this done a few hours late seems like a win! While recapping my own adventures, I also got the chance to sit down and chat with Doug and Laura, or Smokey and Candy Corn. I didn't get a picture of Candy Corn, but this is Doug. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this

Episode #537 - Days 17-20 Appalachian Trail 2026 Apr 13, 2026 40:23 The three days from NOC to Fontana Dam were my toughest section so far. I made it, but the difficulty shook my confidence a bit. The walk down into NOC was a totally different story, for one specific reason, which you'll learn today. Along the way, I met more great people and they shared their stories with me, including Sue Powell (Sweet Tears) and Henry Southall (Hot Tang). With the Smokies ne

Episode #536 - Days 14-16 Appalachian Trail 2026 Apr 9, 2026 27:40 Into the third week on trail and my first zero day, spent in Franklin, NC. The weather remains atypically unusual, with sun and great hiking conditions leading us on. this week I spoke with Fancy, from Fancy's Place, as well as Chica and Sunsets with their hiking experience and super Airbnb. I was unable to get a photo of Fancy, but here is one with me and Chica and Sunsets. I'm using Polarstep

Episode #535 - Days 10-13 Appalachian Trail 2026 Apr 6, 2026 45:18 Nearly two weeks in and I feel I'm hiking stronger than ever. These past four days were testing but I think I came through most of the tests. the feeling of community out here, in these early stages, has been something I was hoping for, yet those hopes have been exceeded every day. Along the way, I've met and spoken with loads of fellow hikers, hostel owners, day hikers and so on. Each encounter h

Episode #534 - Days 7-9 on the Appalachian Trail Apr 2, 2026 30:11 Now a week into the hike, I've gotten into my stride and my body is holding up under the pressure. Already, the "feel" of the trail is as welcoming as it was the last time I went, and I'm feeling right at home. The fact that the weather has been kind to us is a massive bonus. This recap covers last Sunday thru Tuesday, ending at Dick's Creek Gap, about 70 miles in. Amanda Aguillard invited me into

Episode #533 - Days 3-6 on the Appalachian Trail Mar 30, 2026 42:33 I'm back on trail and getting back into the swing of things. This episode tracks days 3 to 6 after my return to the AT. I'm telling my story, along with those of the people I meet. This week, I spoke with Olivia Neal of the Hidden Pond Hostel and Sarah Lopez, or Maybelline, (on the right) who is attempting her own AT thru-hike. I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd l

Episode #532 - Days 1-2 Appalachian Trail 2026 Mar 19, 2026 16:55 This short episode brings everybody up to date with how I got to the trail, then, how I left it, followed by my plans to get back to it. I never do anything the easy way!!! I'm using Polarsteps to record my AT thru-hike this year. If you'd like to follow my progress between episodes, as well as photos of my journey, please go to https://www.polarsteps.com/mightyblue

Episode #531 - Crystal Crowder and William Nelson (Mosey and Sourpatch) Mar 5, 2026 01:03:52 We have a husband and wife hiking duo on the show today. Mosey and Sourpatch hiked the Appalachian Trail last year, needing to get it done before Sourpatch's eye condition deteriorated further. On the way, they found purpose in several ways, with Mosey on the logistics as Sourpatch carried a bunch of military dog tags on to Katahdin. Summiting Katahdin on 9/11 with two

Episode #530 - Tim Bennett (Porkie) Feb 26, 2026 01:02:08 Tim Bennett, or Porkie, is today's guest. Tim had an epic adventure on the Long Trail in Vermont, sharing with us the family connection he has to the trail. It wasn't a straightforward hike, with serious injury and recovery, plus dramatic floods punctuating his efforts over two years. He remained resilient and completed his mission after his various mishaps.

Episode #529 - Michael Neiman (Sharkbait) Feb 19, 2026 58:43 Michael Neiman, who, along with Bruce Matson, brought us Platinum Blazing to the trail, is our guest this week. Michael thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2018, and his new book tells that story–as a 98% true novel. Michael, or Sharkbait has been juggling a job, parenthood, and his writing to bring this book to publication, and it's a good read, with plenty of page turning momen

Episode #528 - Rob Diamond (Dog Tag) Feb 12, 2026 01:11:15 We welcome Rob Diamond to the show today. I met Rob in 2024 in Hot Springs, when we went and tried to help out after Hurricane Helene. Rob told me then that he was planning on a 2025 thru-hike, so I asked him then to follow up with me once he was done. Rob's hike didn't turn out as he had expected, yet he battled through innumerable obstacles as he made his way to Katahdin, eve

Episode #527 - Savannah Schuring (Snazzy Cat) Feb 5, 2026 01:08:49 Savannah Schuring, or Snazzy Cat, took on an Appalachian Trail thru-hike–which she completed in a remarkable three months–as her graduate thesis. On the way, she was interviewing hikers as to their motivations to be out on the trail and learned so much from them, and about herself, with some fascinating conclusions. Savannah always loved the outdoors and, indeed, was

Episode #526 - Erin Tuveson (Bookie) from Rambling Roots Hostel Jan 29, 2026 01:07:49 Today, we meet an AT thru-hiker from the Class of 2015 who went on to buy and run a hostel near the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Erin Tuveson, or Bookie, became so enamored of the trail that she wanted to be around the community she met out there. Erin now owns and runs the Rambling Roots Hostel, bringing her AT knowledge to bear as she puts together the

Episode #525 - Tony Roddy (Silverback) Jan 22, 2026 01:06:47 This week, Tony Roddy joins the podcast. Tony walked across America in 2015, vowing to do one of the long-distance American trails ten years later. His original choice was the CDT, but a last-minute change took him to the Appalachian Trail, where he relished his experience. Tony used his time on the AT to raise funds for autism, an affliction close to home in his

Episode #524 - Todd Sears (Nor'Easter) Jan 15, 2026 01:10:34 We meet a member of the Class of 2012 this week, who happens also to be a member of this years class of 2026. In fact, Todd Sears is starting the day after I start, in March this year. He had a long career in military intelligence, and brings a military discipline to his hike, both back in 2012 and in his plans for this year. I should be meeting him very early on as h

Episode #523 - Michelle Michaud (Fyrfly) Jan 8, 2026 01:11:28 Michelle Michaud is our guest today. She has completed the Appalachian Trail three times, having been on trail every year since the late 90s. Her love for the AT is apparent, and she has managed to parlay that love into a business, helping hikers with their logistics and training as they try to fulfill their own Appalachian Trail dream. You can fin

Episode #522 - Dr Rob Scanlon Jan 1, 2026 57:35 We welcome Dr Rob Scanlon to the podcast today to talk about five essential skills that hikers need to learn to avoid becoming a depressing statistic on trail. Rob shares anecdotes and data to illustrate those five skills, and he has presented a book rich in detail that will benefit most hikers. I'll certainly be paying attention to several of the points Rob makes in his book a

Episode #521 - James Kinch (Firewalker) Dec 25, 2025 48:34 The self-deprecating James Kinch is on the show today, claiming the title of the "Fattest Known Time" on the Appalachian Trail, having twice thru-hiked the trail, starting at well over 300lbs each time. James has published his journal of the hike, and he serves as an inspiration to those who convince themselves that they can't do this hike for many reasons, one of which is

Episode #520 - Ellen Langford (Adventurine) Dec 18, 2025 01:02:30 Ellen Langford, or Adventurine, joins us today. Ellen is a professional artist who had dreamed of hiking the Appalachian Trail for several years before 2025 opened a window for her. On the trail, she found logistics to be challenging, yet utterly "embraced the suck" as she knocked off 1700 miles before an unfortunate health condition curtailed her hike. She took her art tools of the trade with h

Episode #519 - Jesse Cody & Mike Rose (Hike the Good Hike) Dec 11, 2025 01:07:59 We meet Jesse Cody and Mike Rose today, and hear about their non-profit, Hike the Good Hike, an organization committed to enhance mental wellness through nature. They have partnered with several well-known outdoor brands to provide a path for a disparate cohort of people taking on US hikes in 2026. Jesse and Mike value the stories that hikers tell and this podcast will help tell some of those sto

Episode #518 - Emily Manzon (Tic Tac) Dec 4, 2025 59:00 Emily Manzon, or Tic Tac, is our guest this week. Emily was looking for an epic way to celebrate her 40th birthday this year, so the Appalachian Trail certainly checked that box. Along the way, Emily gained a respect for the trail and the impact it had upon her, using mantras to reflect her attitude along the way. Missing 200 miles partway through, she could have been content as a 2,000-miler, y

Episode #517 - Tom Margaria (Father Tom) Nov 27, 2025 01:04:55 Tom Margaria, a retired FDNY firefighter, set out on January 1st from Key West to hike the 5700 mile Eastern Continental Trail. On the way, Tom met up with–and joined–the "Over the Hill Gang," the group including Dave Santi, one of my Mighty Blue Class of 25 this year. Tom, a man of deep faith, would ask people he met along the way how he could pray for them. This kind request came with a variety

Episode #516 - Galloway Johnson (Clementine) Nov 20, 2025 46:03 We meet a young New Hampshire guy today who had never hiked in New Hampshire prior to his Appalachian Trail thru-hike this year. Galloway Johnson had dreamed about the AT for five years and made it a reality this year. He didn't enjoy those early days, finding it tougher than he had imagined and carrying on almost to spite the trail!! But he made it to the end and came on the show to share his s

Episode #515 - Jennifer Cole (Indy 5) Nov 13, 2025 49:33 This is indeed the season for hearing from successful thru-hikers, and we have another one joining us today. Jennifer Cole, or Indy 5, was looking for a great adventure and a bit of independence. She certainly found both on the Appalachian Trail. She has been a stay-at-home-mother to five children over the years, and decided to hike the AT back in 2015, planning ahead ten years for the last of he

Episode #514 - Mike, Molli, and Kayla McCarthy (Blue Pére, Bad Camel, and Popeye) Nov 6, 2025 43:09 We've got a family of three on the show today, with Mike, Molli, and Kayla McCarthy sharing their own hiking story. I met Molli and Kayla on my 2014 thru-hike, and found them to be charming company. Mike had started with them but had to get off trail due to an injury, supporting them the rest of the way. For Kayla, it wasn't the end of her long-distance hiking, with an aborted attempt through inj

Episode #513 - Lisa Laidlow (High Viz) Oct 30, 2025 58:26 Lisa Laidlow came to the trail when she became an empty-nester. She had always been an outdoor girl–often along with her father–yet it was only fairly recently that she returned to hiking and discovered the idea of a thru-hike. As a black woman on the trail, she was embraced by hikers, though had a few uncomfortable encounters along the way. Despite these rare occasions, Lisa is a strong advocate

Episode #512 - James Dalberto (Nomad) Oct 23, 2025 37:42 James Dalberto, or Nomad, joins the podcast today. James has been an RV'er for the past few years, earning a living as a "starving artist" (his words) all over the country. This year, he decided to mix it up a bit and headed out onto the Appalachian Trail for a thru-hike. On the way, he fell back in love with the hiking community he discovered last year, and even found time to provide his fellow

Mighty Blue On The Appalachian Trail: The Ultimate Mid-Life Crisis

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