Episode 15 features the insightful and engaging Melodie Mendez, outdoors advocate, public relations specialist, NYC Chapter Leader of Latino Outdoors, and all around lovely human being! Mel(odie), a Harlem-resident and NYC native, takes Mel(issa), a once suburbanite now Brooklynite, on a meandering walk all around the beautiful North Woods and Ravine in Manhattan’s Central Park.    Throughout their walk, they talk about all-things diversity, equity, and inclusion and how to work toward a better future at both the individual level and in broader society. Melodie is super passionate about lifting-up and representing her Latinx community and other marginalized populations in the outdoors space, and talks about why that matters, especially now in a post-pandemic world.   Mel and Mel also get to geek out a bit on the Appalachian Trail, some NYC fun facts, and some of the extra challenges it takes to be an outdoorsy New Yorker. Please excuse their occasional running out of breath while walking and talking up of some of Harlem’s most notorious hills – they managed to give each other grace throughout and have a bunch of laughs – so here’s hoping you enjoy their walk too!   SHOW NOTES / USEFUL LINKS:   Gossamer Gear Discount — use code “GIRLGOTTAHIKEGOSSAMER” for a 1-time, 15% off discount on all core products at GossamerGear.com   Latino Outdoors New York City Chapter – Facebook Latino Outdoors New York City Chapter – Instagram Latino Outdoors National Organization - Website iNaturalist — app and website Central Park ZogSports   Reclama / Cindy Ramirez – Instagram Melanin Base Camp – Instagram All Colors in Nature – Instagram New York Outdoor Recreation Coalition Lenape Nation Yonkers Running Project – Instagram Boogie Down Bronx Runners – Instagram Harlem Run – Instagram