Lauren Roerick, also known in the thru-hiking community as "Longway," is a seasoned thru-hiker and adventurer who has made a name for herself by tackling some of the most challenging trails around the globe. Originally from Alberta, Canada, and now semi-based out of Vancouver when not living out of her backpack, Lauren’s journey into long-distance hiking began somewhat later in life but has grown into a deep-seated passion. Since 2019, Lauren has transformed from a newcomer to backpacking into an experienced hiker, traversing thousands of kilometers across various landscapes. Her most notable adventures include completing the Pacific Crest Trail, which she credits with significantly shaping her views on personal freedom and self-reliance. Beyond the trails, Lauren is known for her candid discussions about the realities of thru-hiking, including the mental and physical challenges that come with it. Apart from her life on the trail, Lauren has an interesting background in marketing communications and has lived and worked in diverse cultural settings including Taiwan and Berlin, adding layers of depth to her understanding of global perspectives. Her experiences have not only enriched her personal life but also influenced her views on minimalism and living authentically. Expect Lauren to dive into the transformative power of hiking, the intrinsic values learned on the trail, and how these experiences translate to everyday life. Lauren's insights are particularly enlightening for anyone interested in the intersections of adventure, personal growth, and living outside the conventional bounds. 00:00 Introduction 03:11 Thru-Hiking, Overcoming Fears & Generosity 16:19 Logistics, Adaptability & Personal Growth 27:26 France Hexatrek Trail, Social Media & Documenting Adventures 1:00:51 Stepping Outside of Your Comfort Zone, Nomadic Lifestyle & Slow Travel