In this episode, Jen and Dyana sit down with thru-hiker and author Julia Sheehan to unpack her transformative 2,190-mile journey along the Appalachian Trail. Julia opens up about the emotional and physical challenges of the hike, the experience of documenting it on social media, and the unexpected impact of going viral. She shares insights from her new book, Hiking is the Easy Part: My Journey on the Appalachian Trail, and gets candid about the pressure to stay authentic online, navigate community expectations, and filter through the noise of constant feedback.
Julia has stepped foot on the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and Arizona Trail, but shares about the unique charm and magic of the Appalachian Trail. Julia also reflects on how yoga and writing her memoir became a key part of her healing—and why vulnerability is essential to meaningful storytelling. This conversation goes beyond the trail. It’s about resilience, self-discovery, and learning to navigate the highs and lows—on and off the path.
Follow Julia on Instagram - @juliasheehan
Her book - Hiking is the Easy Part: My Journey on the Appalachian Trail
Her documentary - Into the Wild: My Journey on the Appalachian Trail
Backpacker article - Her Thru-Hike Went Viral. Then She Quit.
NOTABLE TIMESTAMPS:
2:32 Welcome, Julia Sheehan!
7:07 What life looked like for Julia when she left for the Appalachian Trail
10:32 Julia's reasons on filming her AT thru-hike
16:01 The impacts of social media + thru-hiking and how to handle online criticism
30:45 Julia's memoir - Hiking is the Easy Part: My Journey on the Appalachian Trail
56:12 Julia's yoga journey + the benefits of practicing yoga
1:09:04 Why do first-time thru-hikers keep going back
1:15:00 The unique magic of the Appalachian Trail
Where to find and support Bush & Banter:
- Follow Bush & Banter on Instagram: @bushandbanter
- Visit Bush & Banter's website: www.bushandbanter.com
- Join Bush & Banter's Patreon community: patreon.com/bushandbanter
- E-mail Bush & Banter: bushandbanter@gmail.com
- Follow Dyana on Instagram: @dyanacarmella
- Follow Jennifer on Instagram: @jenfrederick_
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