#157: This Mom is WILD for Backpacking, Hiking, Teaching Others About the Outdoors

Run The Race

We just celebrated Mother’s Day and our latest guest on “Run The Race” (which you can subscribe to now) is a mom who helps other women experience adventures in the outdoors through a unique non-profit she created in Georgia involving camping, confidence, motherhood, snakes, even bears! (3:11) Sanna Moravek, executive director of WILD - Women’s Initiative for Learning and Discovery – is the mother of a 14-year-old. We talk about the importance of unplugging for quality time with your children and “mommy time” to recharge your batteries. (7:20) She was working at an outdoors store 7 years ago when she helped come up with WILD. It started with basic outdoors classes. It led to adventure “girls trips” in the woods all over the southeastern US, for females of all levels, from overnights with lodging or sleeping on the ground to 6-day backpacking trips through the Smokies. It’s a way to have fitness, fresh air, and learn new skills. But is there a (14:00) double standard for men vs women going camping and hiking? More ladies are involved in these activities now – getting a sense of accomplishment, stepping out of their comfort zone and overcoming fears. (17:35) There are plenty of critters, snakes too. The organization balances risk with reward, with WILD focusing on safety. (20:44) Outdoor fitness also hells Sanna in her battle with thyroid cancer…and for this psychology major to share about her struggles of health, motherhood with other women. (27:15) She also gets to have experiences in the outdoors with her daughter, including doing half of Maryland's section of the Appalachian Trail with her. This guide has also thru hiked around half of the AT solo. (34:27) Our chat closes with more on the $10 classes WILD provides, upcoming trips that include their bus "Wanda," and how age or experience levels won't keep you from getting involved. To learn more about WILD, go to https://www.wildoutdoorlearning.org/. I close the pod in prayer. Thanks for listening to the #RunTheRace podcast! Also, write a quick review about it, on Apple podcasts. For more info and all past episodes, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.