Embracing the Outdoors and Making Nature Accessible with James Smith

University City Partners Podcast

Keith Stanley welcomes outdoor adventure expert James Smith on University City Partners Podcast to demystify outdoor activities for beginners and intermediate explorers. James, co-owner of MyOutdoorJoy, shares his unique insights into making outdoor activities accessible and enjoyable for all, shattering stereotypes and encouraging inclusive participation.

James reveals how his personal experiences as an “unlikely” outdoorsman have fueled his passion for teaching a diverse community basic and advanced outdoor skills. This episode is packed with actionable advice, inspiring stories, and transformative tips that will motivate even the most hesitant individuals to explore the great outdoors.

Does the idea of outdoor adventures intimidate you? Tune in to learn how James Smith and My Outdoor Joy make hiking, camping, and even scuba diving accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of background or experience level.

Join Keith and James as they discuss the empowering journey of becoming outdoor-savvy, and discover how you too can take your first step into nature with confidence and joy.

Episode Highlights:

05:29 - One of the demographics for us that has been surprising is that we are as an organization, we have a membership that's probably 80% women across all racial lines, across all economics.

06:47 - When you're in a group of beginners that are doing something for the first time, it really lowers the stress level. It lowers the intimidation factor for going on a hike.

08:09 - So the first thing I tell people is write down what you want to do. I don't call it a business plan. Write down what you want to do, and then start interviewing people, having questions.

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Connect with James

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