Pretty Good at Talking

By: Vince Strawbridge
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  • Summary

  • In 2018, the Strawbridge family - including four kids aged 11 to 16 - walked from Canada to Mexico along the Pacific Crest Trail. Their story is told in the book ”Pretty Good at Walking,” but a 2,650-mile journey creates more stories than one book can hold. Join author Vince Strawbridge as he sits down with the colorful characters who shaped his family’s adventure - from trail angels and fellow hikers to musicians and mountain guides. Each episode reveals a new perspective on shared moments from the trail, exploring how individual journeys intertwine to create the unique culture of the PCT. Whether you’re a long-distance hiker, an armchair adventurer, or simply love a good story, Pretty Good at Talking invites you to discover the community that makes the Pacific Crest Trail more than just a path through the wilderness.
    Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
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Episodes
  • 05 - "Aunt" Katie "SoGood" Radesovic

    05 - "Aunt" Katie "SoGood" Radesovic
    Jan 30 2025
    In this conversation, Aunt Katie shares her transformative journey through hiking, beginning with her experiences on the John Muir Trail and leading to her adventures on the Pacific Crest Trail. She discusses her motivations for hiking, the lessons learned along the way, and the importance of community and connection in the outdoor experience. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of long-distance hiking, as well as the personal growth that comes from immersing oneself in nature. In this segment of the conversation, Aunt Katie and Vince share their memorable hiking experiences, particularly in Washington and Oregon. They discuss the challenges of dealing with mosquitoes, the beauty of burned landscapes, and the significance of trail companions. Aunt Katie reflects on her feelings of safety and comfort while hiking alone, and they reminisce about their encounters with fellow hikers, including a touching moment with a young girl named June. The conversation also highlights the joy of unexpected connections and the simple pleasures of trail life, such as finding a cold beer in a hiker box. In this segment of the conversation, Vince and Aunt Katie reflect on their experiences hiking the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), sharing stories about their encounters with fellow hikers, the challenges they faced in Northern California, and the emotional highs and lows of their journey. They discuss the camaraderie among hikers, the impact of fire closures, and the importance of companionship during tough times. The conversation also highlights memorable moments, such as their stay at Packer Lake Lodge, and the struggles they faced with weather conditions, including a particularly challenging storm. In this conversation, Aunt Katie and Vince Strawbridge reflect on their hiking experiences, discussing the beauty of nature, the challenges faced on the trail, and the connections made with family and fellow hikers. They share insights on the fulfillment of achieving dreams and the importance of community in outdoor adventures. The conversation highlights the significance of memories and the passage of time, emphasizing how these experiences shape personal growth and relationships. Takeaways Aunt Katie's journey into hiking began just a few years before the John Muir Trail. She felt a strong desire to understand her own backyard after extensive international travel. The John Muir Trail introduced her to the hiking community and the joy of shared experiences. Her first hike was a learning experience, especially regarding food and pack weight. Aunt Katie's transition to the Pacific Crest Trail was a dream come true after years of planning. She learned the importance of preparation and adaptability in outdoor adventures. The trail provided opportunities for connection and friendship with fellow hikers. Her trail name, 'So Good,' reflects her love for the experience and the beauty of nature. Aunt Katie faced challenges, including dangerous creek crossings, but found strength in community. Washington's landscapes were particularly memorable, connecting her past experiences with her hiking journey. Washington was an epic adventure for both hikers. Mosquitoes can be a significant challenge on the trail. Walking through burned landscapes can be eerie yet beautiful. Trail companions create lasting memories and bonds. Hiking alone can be a comforting experience. Daily life on the trail revolves around eating and hiking. Unexpected encounters can lead to meaningful connections. Sharing kindness on the trail can uplift others. Shelter Cove was a memorable stop for hikers. Creating stories in your head can enhance the hiking experience. The gathering at the Thousand Mile mark was significant. First experiences on the PCT included unexpected challenges. Uphill climbs can be both physically and mentally taxing. Fire closures impacted hiking plans significantly. Meeting fellow hikers provided a sense of community. Northern California presented some of the toughest challenges. Loneliness can creep in during long hikes. Packer Lake Lodge offered a much-needed respite. Weather conditions can greatly affect the hiking experience. Resilience is key in overcoming the hardships of the trail. The beauty of nature can be breathtaking and transformative. Weather changes can significantly impact hiking experiences. Challenges on the trail often lead to important decisions. Family connections enhance the hiking experience. Achieving dreams can lead to a sense of emptiness afterward. The interconnectedness of trail experiences creates lasting bonds. Memories of hiking adventures can be cherished for a lifetime. Reflections on past experiences can provide clarity and insight. Community support is vital in overcoming challenges on the trail. Time changes perspectives on past experiences and relationships. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 05:55 Lessons Learned on the Trail 09:45 Preparing for the PCT Adventure 15:20 ...
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    1 hr and 29 mins
  • 04 - Angie Hashioka - Pretty Good at Talking

    04 - Angie Hashioka - Pretty Good at Talking
    Jan 23 2025

    In this episode of Pretty Good at Talking, host Vince Strawbridge converses with Angie Hashioka, a significant figure in his family's journey along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). They reminisce about their friendship, the challenges faced on the trail, and the support received from friends. Angie shares her experiences as a trail angel, providing care and comfort during a critical moment in the hike. The conversation explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the beauty of nature, while also reflecting on personal growth and the memories created along the way. In this conversation, Vince Strawbridge reflects on his experiences hiking the Pacific Crest Trail with his family, discussing the nuances of storytelling, the connections made with fellow hikers, and the lessons learned from frustration and misunderstanding. He shares insights on the impact of health on hiking experiences, recounts survival stories that foster personal growth, and reflects on the importance of shared experiences in parenting. The conversation culminates in a discussion about inspiring others through adventure and the value of finding joy in life's simple moments.

    Be sure to check out Vince's new book on Amazon: Pretty Good at Walking: A family journey https://a.co/d/aGKzQ1x

    Takeaways

    Angie Hashioka played a crucial role as a trail angel during the PCT journey.

    Friendship can provide essential support during challenging times.

    The contrast between life in Florida and California shapes perspectives on nature.

    The decision to hike the PCT was influenced by a desire for new experiences.

    Physical challenges on the trail can lead to unexpected moments of connection.

    Medical care and recovery are vital for hikers facing injuries.

    Memories of friendship are often tied to both joyful and difficult experiences.

    The concept of providence suggests that help arrives when needed most.

    Halloween on the trail created unique and memorable experiences.

    Reflections on parenting reveal the growth and independence of children. Storytelling involves nuances that can be corrected with feedback.

    Connections with fellow hikers enrich the hiking experience.

    Frustration can lead to unexpected positive outcomes.

    Health issues can significantly impact outdoor adventures.

    Survival experiences can lead to personal growth and reflection.

    Parenting involves shared experiences that shape relationships.

    Adventure can inspire others to explore the outdoors.

    Finding joy in simple moments is essential for happiness.

    It's important to slow down and appreciate life.

    Every experience contributes to a larger narrative of resilience.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Journey

    03:13 The Significance of Trail Angels

    06:06 Recollections of Soccer and Friendship

    09:05 Life in Florida vs. California

    11:57 The Decision to Hike the PCT

    14:51 Challenges on the Trail

    18:07 The Rescue and Support from Friends

    21:02 Medical Care and Recovery

    24:01 Memories and Scars of Friendship

    26:51 The Role of Providence on the Trail

    30:03 Halloween on the Trail

    32:53 Symbolism in the Journey

    36:06 Reconnecting in Idlewild

    39:04 Reflections on Kaia's Growth

    41:51 Independence and Parenting

    44:32 Navigating Nuances in Storytelling

    47:15 Connecting with Fellow Hikers

    49:36 Lessons from Frustration and Misunderstanding

    52:46 The Impact of Health on Hiking Experiences

    01:00:00 Survival Stories: A Journey of Growth

    01:12:21 Reflections on Parenting and Shared Experience

    s

    01:20:58 Inspiring Others Through Adventure
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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • 03 - June Strawbridge - Pretty Good at Talking

    03 - June Strawbridge - Pretty Good at Talking
    Jan 19 2025

    Show Notes

    Buy Vince's Book: Pretty Good at Walking: A family journey https://a.co/d/1l60Hj8

    Summary

    In this episode of Pretty Good at Talking, Vince Strawbridge interviews his daughter June about her experience hiking the Pacific Crest Trail at the age of 14. They discuss the challenges, triumphs, and personal growth that came from the journey, as well as the impact it had on their family dynamics. June shares her thoughts on the mental strategies she employed to keep going, the relationships she built with her siblings, and the lessons learned from the trail. The conversation highlights the importance of perseverance, the joy of nature, and the lasting memories created during their adventure.

    Takeaways

    June was excited yet nervous about the hike.

    The journey tested June's resolve and shaped her character.

    Mental strategies helped June cope with the challenges of hiking.

    Milestones along the trail boosted June's confidence.

    Memorable moments in Oregon included beautiful landscapes and encounters with other hikers.

    The hike strengthened relationships among family members.

    Physical struggles were a significant part of the experience.

    Trail magic moments provided unexpected joy and support.

    June learned valuable lessons about perseverance and self-discovery.

    The experience changed June's perspective on challenges and growth.

    Quotes

    "I think I felt like... Now we're really doing it."

    "I think I may take it a little for granted now."

    "I think it'll be fun."

    “Hey Daddo, I just thought of something.”

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the Journey

    04:23 Excitement and Apprehension Before the Hike

    07:20 First Impressions on the Trail

    10:24 Mental Strategies During the Hike

    13:23 Milestones and Achievements

    16:12 Memorable Experiences in Oregon

    19:19 Reflections on Relationships and Emotions

    22:22 Physical Challenges and Injuries

    25:21 Inventions and Daydreams on the Trail

    31:16 The Journey Begins: Reflections on Hiking

    33:28 Key Moments and Encounters on the Trail

    36:17 Nature's Beauty and Personal Growth

    40:22 Overcoming Challenges and Mental Resilience

    45:49 The Transition to the Desert: A New Perspective

    50:33 Life Lessons from the Trail

    54:10 Memorable Experiences and Surprises

    57:40 The Impact of the Journey on Relationships

    01:03:03 Journey on the Pacific Crest Trail

    01:03:34 Reflections on Adventure and Growth
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    1 hr and 4 mins

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