LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast - Season 2, Episode 11: Meghan Stewart | LGBT+ Outdoors Ambassador Spotlight Release Date: December 2, 2024

Introduction and Organizational Growth

The episode opens with hosts Justin Yoder and Patrick discussing exciting developments within the LGBTQ Outdoors organization. Justin highlights the significant growth of their events across the country, mentioning the impressive volunteer efforts and the introduction of automation to streamline processes.

Justin Yoder [01:04]: "We're not quite rolling with that yet, but did want to give a shout out to David Guthmueller. He has put in so much work, and he's a wizard at all things automation."

Patrick adds enthusiasm about having staff and launching the Trailblazer Society, a new program aimed at fostering diversity and inclusion in outdoor spaces. This initiative encourages members to contribute as little as $15 a month in exchange for perks like T-shirts and tree plantings.

Patrick [04:05]: "And, like, one of the things we get, the queer community outside, like, by and large, that's our prime purpose... if everybody kind of joins hands and throws a little bit into the pot, like, there's a lot that we can do."

Introducing Meghan Stewart

The hosts introduce Meghan Stewart, a relatively new ambassador from California. Meghan shares her journey into the outdoors, starting from her upbringing in Southern California’s high desert, her initial forays into nature through sports, and her transformative solo adventures in Utah.

Meghan Stewart [09:04]: "I moved out to Utah and worked at Snowbird Ski Resort for two years... that was kind of my first experience of doing solo hiking and solo adventures."

Role as an Ambassador

Meghan elaborates on her responsibilities as an ambassador, which include organizing hikes, outdoor activities, and events in her region—the North Bay area of California. She emphasizes creating inclusive and approachable events for all skill levels to encourage participation from those who might be hesitant about outdoor activities.

Meghan Stewart [44:05]: "As an ambassador, I am trying to organize hikes, outdoor activities, events that are within my region. I just come up with creative, fun things that I think can kind of match all skill levels."

Environmental Engineering in the Wine Industry

Meghan discusses her role as an environmental engineer at a winery, focusing on minimizing the environmental impact through initiatives like stormwater management, emission controls, and sustainable vineyard practices. She highlights her passion for ecological restoration and community engagement through events like Earth Day fairs and trash cleanups.

Meghan Stewart [18:26]: "My job is to make sure our stormwater... we're making sure our parking lots are full of oil and grease build up... another fun aspect is hosting events to educate and engage our team and community."

Adventures and Fly Fishing Tips

Meghan shares her memorable outdoor adventures, including trips to iconic locations like Havasu Falls in Arizona and an extensive solo road trip through the Pacific Northwest and Utah. She offers practical fly fishing tips, recommending simple approaches for beginners and emphasizing the accessibility of the sport.

Meghan Stewart [37:36]: "I like tent for the privacy. That's the only reason. If hammocks had a little more privacy, I'd be all about it."

Challenges and Representation

When asked about challenges as a queer individual in the outdoors, Meghan expresses a positive experience, noting the welcoming nature of outdoor communities, especially in California. She underscores the importance of representation in normalizing LGBTQ individuals in nature, fostering an inclusive environment for all.

Meghan Stewart [52:24]: "I think it is important... just being comfortable in who you are and letting people know that we're not scary, we're not spooky, we're not weird."

Rapid-Fire Round

In a light-hearted rapid-fire segment, Meghan shares her favorite trail snacks (cashews), prefers sunrise hikes over sunsets, and chooses mountains over forests or beaches. She also expresses her admiration for mountain lions, emphasizing coexistence with wildlife.

Meghan Stewart [63:36]: "I like cashews. I like that salty, but they're also soft."

Advice for Newcomers and Fostering Inclusivity

Meghan offers heartfelt advice to queer individuals hesitant about engaging in outdoor activities. She encourages them to take small steps, utilize local resources, and embrace the supportive community within LGBTQ Outdoors. Additionally, she advocates for fostering inclusivity by being friendly and approachable on trails, making everyone feel welcome.

Meghan Stewart [66:30]: "Honestly, I just do it. Just do it... don't let that hold you back if you're worried about your stuff."

Closing and Teasers for Future Events

The episode concludes with Meghan promoting upcoming events, including hikes in Muir Woods and potential winery bike tours in Napa Valley. The hosts tease the next OutdoorFest scheduled for September 11-14, 2025, in New York, encouraging listeners to save the dates.

Patrick [74:33]: "LGBT Outdoor Fest 2025 will be in the state of New York, going up to the northeast. It will be September 11th through the 14th, 2025... save those dates."

Notable Quotes

• Meghan Stewart [00:00]: "Because I feel like in nature there's no judgment on anything."
• Justin Yoder [14:19]: "Let's normalize this stuff."
• Patrick [72:31]: "We don't wear a boombox here."

Conclusion

This episode of the LGBTQ Outdoors Podcast offers an inspiring look into Meghan Stewart’s role as an ambassador, her passion for environmental stewardship, and her efforts to create a more inclusive outdoor community. Listeners gain valuable insights into balancing professional responsibilities with personal adventures and learn practical tips for engaging in outdoor activities as part of the LGBTQ community.

For more information and to connect with Meghan Stewart, visit the California chapter on Facebook or follow her Instagram @Schmeegans_Adventures.

Join the Trailblazer Society to support LGBTQ Outdoors' mission of fostering diversity and inclusion in outdoor spaces. Visit LGBTQOutdoors.com for more details.