Meet Jess. Enthusiast for life and all it has to offer. Jess ditched his tech career a few years ago and now spends his days pursuing happiness. Since starting his very own fitness company, Jess is dedicated to enjoying life and helping others do that too. Read his story and be inspired to seek the happiness in your own life.
Being the first to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail with a baby, meet The Quirin Family. Derrick & Bekah had always dreamed of thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, but when they had their daughter Ellie, they thought they would have to put that dream on hold. Little did they know that Baby Ellie loved being outdoors and traveling around in Mom's pack on short hikes around their home in Virginia. So it didn't take long to realize that they didn't have to put their dreams on the back-burner, instead they would embrace life and take on the challenge of being the first family to thru-hike the AT with a baby.
Meet Mamie. She's already thru-hiked the 2,200 mile stretch that is the Appalachian Trail (solo, at that), and is now in the midst of her journey along the Pacific Crest Trail. Through these hiking adventures, Mamie has learned to reflect and accept the strong, capable woman she is today. Read her story and be inspired.
After being kicked off her high school track team for wanting to practice with the boys, Catrina went on to accept a scholarship to run for the University of Colorado at Boulder. There, she suffered a series of injuries that left her defeated and doubting herself. She took some time off to heal and refocus, got back into running, and now Catrina has her sights set on the 2020 Olympics. She has a can't stop/won't stop attitude that we love, and we are proud to be cheering her on as she races her way to Tokyo.
After being picked to try out for the Olympics at the age of 16 (and narrowly missing), Joseph fell in love with the sport of rowing and became more determined than ever to make the Olympic Team. He has his sights set on Tokyo 2020, so he spends 6 days a week training hard, refueling, and concentrating on his athletic performance. His commitment is impressive, and we are cheering him on every step of the way.
"My Mom tells me I was able to run before I could walk. And I haven't stopped since. I am an ultra marathon runner, road and mountain biker and full-time outdoor enthusiast."
"My mother raised me on the belief that each life is precious- every plant, animal, or insect had its own unique story. If we killed a scorpion, we said, "I'm sorry." If we took a snipping of basil to cook dinner, we said "Thank you." I learned to appreciate our symbiotic relationship. As I became an adult, my curiosity grew into a yearning for more adventure in the great outdoors. I learned that I am most myself when I'm pushing my limits outside. Traveling, rock climbing, and mountaineering became a passion, which I've carried with me through college, medical school, and into my professional life."
"There are more things to be explored in the world than I feel time. That, in itself, is a motivator. I live to wander and explore and grow and learn. Although I couldn't live without any of those things, I have come to find exponential benefit in wandering. I've wandered through cities and towns and countries and hope to never stop."
Meet The Bensons. The Bensons sold their house, packed up their belongings, and headed abroad for a year of travel, adventure, and eye-opening experiences. Rebekah & Duane (Mom & Dad), Noah (17), Micah (12), and Ezra (8) are in the midst of their expedition and are soaking it all in. They spent some time in Guatemala, are currently in Costa Rica, and will be heading to Nicaragua next. Following their family expedition has been an absolute treat, and we think you'll agree.
Within each of us lies the potential to live life to the fullest. We have the ability to choose our own destiny, live without fear or limits, challenge ourselves and grow, do and be whatever makes us happy. We have the ability to be free. It's how you live a Wildway of life and there are people all around us inspiring others with their actions. We want to celebrate that by highlighting and honoring those who #LiveWild.
