S11 - Episode #09 - Melanie

🎙️ From First Steps to Thousands of Miles with Melanie aka Poppi 🌲🥾

In this episode of Hikes & Mics, we sit down with Melanie, whose journey from two simple overnight trips to conquering the Pacific Crest Trail, Colorado Trail, and Arizona Trail is nothing short of inspiring. With a background in nutrition, she shares how fueling your body with intention can transform the trail experience—from protein coffee rituals to the importance of macronutrients on thru-hikes.

We dive into the highs and lows of her PCT flip-flop year, summit stories on the Colorado Trail, and the surprises of snow and storms on the AZT. Melanie also opens up about her trail name “Poppi,” her adventures with her Aussie pup Butters, and the mindset that keeps her steady through both breathtaking sunrises and brutal storms. 🌄🐾

✨ If you’ve ever dreamed of a thru-hike but felt intimidated, Melanie’s story proves that courage, community, and curiosity can carry you farther than you think.

Episode Links:
Melanie on Instagram
PNWoofs Dog Barkery

This episode was Produced by Jordyn Smith, follow her on Instagram @jordyn.journeys

Follow us on Instagram, @Hikesandmics

Texas Together: with Hondo
Ordinary Texans with Extrodinary Stories

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

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Sign up here: AllTrails+ (promo is only redeemable via web and not the app)

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Chapters

• 9:54 [Ad] Texas Together: with Hondo
• 10:32 (Cont.) S11 - Episode #09 - Melanie