51. Trail of Transformation: Discovering Nature’s Path to Inner Strength and Resiliency with Kevin Conley, Wildland Firefighter and Author of Above the Ashes

Virginia Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Camping, Kayaking, Local Travel and more!

“The best way to describe how I got into this journey is that in the past, I've hiked the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail, and I've done bike tours from Mexico to Canada, and those journeys always gave me faith and they renewed my spirit, and they breathed new life into me. Those challenges always put me in a very positive and happy place.” - Kevin Conley, Wildland Firefighter and Author of Above the Ashes

When darkness looms, is it possible for nature's light to guide us back?
Kevin Conley, author and wildland firefighter, joins us to answer just that.
In an episode that's as raw as it is real, we follow Kevin's harrowing trek from the brink of despair, through his battle with severe panic attacks and depression, to the catharsis and clarity he found in the solitude of the outdoors on a 3,500-mile bike ride across the country.
His narrative, captured in, "Above the Ashes," isn't just about personal triumph; it's an intimate tour of nature’s healing landscapes and a story of redemption that speaks to the resilience we all possess. Let’s Go!
Follow VAOA Podcast:

Website I Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up

Support the Show: Buy Me A Coffee

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Virginia Association for Parks

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Kevin: Website I Instagram

Buy the Book: Above the Ashes

Donate: Wildland Firefighter Foundation

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]