LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast: S2E10 – Bucky's Journey | From Soccer to Rock Climbing and Beyond

Release Date: November 18, 2024
Host: Justin Yoder and Patrick
Guest: Bucky, Outdoor Adventures Coach

Introduction

In the tenth episode of Season 2, the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast welcomes Bucky, a passionate outdoor enthusiast and founder of Outdoor Adventures Coaching. Hosted by Justin Yoder and his husband Patrick, this episode delves into Bucky's transformative journey from competitive soccer to the exhilarating world of rock climbing and beyond, highlighting the intersection of her LGBTQ identity with her outdoor pursuits.

Bucky's Background

Bucky begins by sharing her roots from California’s wine country, where she honed her competitive spirit through soccer, culminating in a successful college soccer career in the Midwest. (00:34) However, upon retiring her cleats after college, she sought a new passion, leading her to discover rock climbing. This shift marked the beginning of her deep dive into the outdoors, transforming her lifestyle and career aspirations.

Bucky (00:00): “When you're out there, nature doesn't care who you are. You just gotta be out there. Be yourself. Be authentic.”

Embracing the Outdoors as an LGBTQ Individual

Before her foray into rock climbing, Bucky navigated her early years as a straight-passing individual. Her coming out journey heightened her awareness of inclusivity within the outdoor community. She emphasizes the outdoors as a sanctuary where authenticity thrives, a sentiment that resonates deeply with LGBTQ members seeking acceptance and connection.

Bucky (08:46): “Representation is still really important and it's something that needs to grow, even in an inclusive space like the rock climbing community.”

Inclusive Climbing Communities Worldwide

Bucky shares her global adventures, including climbing in Peru and Nepal, where she found welcoming communities despite the often conservative cultural landscapes. She attests to the inherent inclusivity of the rock climbing community, providing safe havens for LGBTQ individuals across diverse geographies.

Bucky (09:46): “The rock climbing community is incredibly inclusive. I've never met anyone who wasn't welcoming. It's almost like a safe haven.”

Memorable Outdoor Adventures

The conversation shifts to Bucky's unforgettable experiences in the wild. She recounts the challenging Salkantay Trek in Peru—a journey through varied biomes culminating at Machu Picchu. Additionally, she narrates encounters with wild horses in Iceland and Big Bend, as well as witnessing the Aurora Borealis in Minnesota, highlighting both grand and micro adventures that have shaped her relationship with nature.

Bucky (20:14): “Seeing the Aurora Borealis was on my buck do it list. It was something I’d always wanted to experience, and it was unforgettable.”

Outdoor Adventures Coaching: Empowering Others

Bucky introduces her venture, Outdoor Adventures Coaching, founded during a soul-searching trip in Patagonia. The company focuses on empowering individuals through wilderness first aid classes and adventure planning workshops, catering to all skill levels. Her mission centers on creating inclusive outdoor spaces, particularly for the LGBTQ community, fostering connections, and building essential outdoor skills.

Bucky (46:24): “My mission is to work with people of all skill levels to empower them to adventure with confidence, focusing on inclusive classes and community.”

Tips for Aspiring Climbers and Backpackers

Bucky offers invaluable advice for newcomers to rock climbing and backpacking. She encourages adventurers to embrace solo journeys to build confidence while also highlighting the benefits of community support. Key tips include investing in quality food for trips and not being deterred by initial fears or lack of a travel partner.

Bucky (39:15): “Don’t let the fear of going alone hold you back. Empower yourself with the skills you need to adventure with confidence.”

Justin and Patrick underscore the therapeutic and empowering aspects of solo adventures, echoing Bucky’s emphasis on self-reliance and personal growth through outdoor experiences.

Closing Thoughts

As the episode wraps up, Bucky expresses her enthusiasm for future collaborations and projects, including the upcoming LGBTQ Outdoor Fest 2025. Hosts Justin and Patrick invite listeners to engage with both LGBTQ Outdoors and Outdoor Adventures Coaching through various platforms, encouraging community participation and support.

Justin Yoder (52:55): “Thank you for sharing your knowledge with our audience. Please check out Outdoor Adventures Coaching and join the community at lgbtoutdoors.com.”

Notable Quotes

• Bucky (00:00): “Nature doesn't care who you are. You just gotta be out there. Be yourself. Be authentic.”
• Bucky (09:46): “The rock climbing community is incredibly inclusive. It's almost like a safe haven.”
• Bucky (20:14): “Seeing the Aurora Borealis was on my buck do it list. It was unforgettable.”
• Bucky (39:15): “Don’t let the fear of going alone hold you back. Empower yourself with the skills you need to adventure with confidence.”

Connecting with Bucky and LGBTQ Outdoors

• Outdoor Adventures Coaching Website: outdooradventurescoaching.com
• Social Media: Follow Bucky on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook as outdooradventurescoaching.
• LGBTQ Outdoors: Visit lgbtoutdoors.com for information on Outdoor Fest, Trailblazer Society, local chapters, and newsletters.

This episode of LGBTQ Outdoors serves as an inspiring testament to the power of the outdoors in fostering authentic self-expression and building inclusive communities. Bucky’s journey underscores the importance of representation, resilience, and the unifying spirit of nature.