EP. 13 - Do the Thing: Mellisa’s Journey to Self-Acceptance

EP. 15 - Off-Trail in the Rainforests of Puerto Rico with Juan

In this episode of Hiking Without a Stitch, I sit down with Juan from Puerto Rico to talk about what it’s like exploring naturism and nude hiking on a tropical island where public nudity is still heavily stigmatized and legally risky. We dive into the hidden beaches, rainforest trails, and off-the-map locations Juan carefully seeks out to experience freedom in nature without clothes. From hiking deep in the jungle to encounters with wildlife, anacondas, rare birds, and even venomous plants, Juan shares what it’s really like navigating nature naked in one of the most beautiful and conservative places in the Caribbean. We also talk about:  • The cultural attitudes toward nudity in Puerto Rico  • Why many people still confuse nudity with sexuality  • Finding respectful ways to practice non-sexual naturism  • The importance of protecting unofficial nude spaces  • Learning to slow down and truly experience nature  • Building confidence and opening up to friends about naturism Juan’s perspective is thoughtful, adventurous, and deeply connected to nature. This conversation is a reminder that naturism isn’t about perfection or exhibitionism — it’s about freedom, curiosity, respect, and experiencing life fully as yourself. If you’ve ever wondered what nude hiking looks like in a place like Puerto Rico — this episode gives a raw and honest look into that world. Follow Juan and keep up with his nude hiking and naturist adventures throughout Puerto Rico: Instagram: @borinaturist https://www.instagram.com/borinaturist?igsh=Znp6eDM2aW4xcmpn [https://www.instagram.com/borinaturist?igsh=Znp6eDM2aW4xcmpn] Get NAKED + Be Free + Be Kind Follow the journey on Instagram: @HikingWithoutAStitch

EP. 14 - Andrew’s Journey Into Nude Hiking, Self-Acceptance & Outdoor Freedom

In this episode, I sit down with Andrew, a local Phoenix hiker, to talk about his personal journey into nude hiking and non-sexual nudity. Andrew shares how it all started—from his first spontaneous nude pool jump to finding confidence and freedom out on the trail. We dive into how spending time in nature without clothes has impacted his mindset, improved his physical health, and helped him develop a deeper sense of self-acceptance. We also get into the practical side of things, including tips for staying safe while hiking nude, how to navigate public spaces, and what the nudist community is really like. If you’ve ever been curious about nude hiking—or you’re looking for a new way to connect with yourself and nature—this episode offers a real and honest perspective from someone living it. In this episode: * Andrew’s first experience with nudity outdoors * Building confidence and body acceptance * Mental and physical benefits of nude hiking * Safety tips and trail awareness * Understanding the nudist community Note: During the episode, I reference game cameras and misspoke. Hunters are not allowed to use game cameras in Arizona for hunting purposes. Any cameras you may encounter are more likely used by wildlife photographers, researchers, or fish and game officials. If you’d like to connect with Andrew or follow along with his adventures, check him out here:  https://www.instagram.com/clandestine_exposure?igsh=aDFhc2lrODdpN2du [https://www.instagram.com/clandestine_exposure?igsh=aDFhc2lrODdpN2du] Get NAKED + Be Free + Be Kind Follow the journey on Instagram: @HikingWithoutAStitch

EP. 13 - Do the Thing: Mellisa’s Journey to Self-Acceptance

In this episode, I sit down with Mellisa for a real and honest conversation about body image, self-acceptance, and what it actually looks like to rebuild your relationship with your body. Mellisa shares her journey—from struggling to even look at herself in the mirror… to slowly taking small steps toward feeling more comfortable in her own skin. We talk about the moments that held her back, the shift that helped her move forward, and how curiosity and patience played a huge role in her growth. We also get into her experiences with non-sexual nudity—from starting in her own private space, to being part of a women’s retreat, and even walking in a nude art show. This episode isn’t about flipping a switch and suddenly loving yourself. It’s about taking small steps, being a little less judgmental, and learning to accept yourself where you’re at. If you’ve ever struggled with body image or felt held back by your own thoughts, this conversation is for you. Show Notes & Links Follow Mellisa on instagram: @selflovemel  Artist & Event (Kat Shaw): https://katshaw.art/about/ [https://katshaw.art/about/] Get NAKED + Be Free + Be Kind Follow the journey on Instagram: @HikingWithoutAStitch

EP. 12 - Don’t Be Scared of the Experience with Mike

Episode 12 — Don’t Be Scared of the Experience In this episode, I’m sitting down with Mike from Tucson, Arizona — an avid hiker who shares his personal journey into social, non-sexual nudity and how it’s changed the way he experiences the outdoors. What started as a moment of curiosity at Tanque Verde Falls turned into something much deeper — a shift in mindset, a new level of connection with nature, and a better understanding of himself. We talk about navigating different encounters out on the trail, breaking through common misconceptions, and what it really looks like to approach this lifestyle with respect, boundaries, and patience — especially within a relationship. Mike also shares the mental and emotional benefits he’s experienced, along with simple advice for anyone who’s curious but unsure where to start. This conversation is real, relatable, and grounded in what this is actually about — respect, openness, and reconnecting with something natural. Get NAKED + Be Free + Be Kind Follow the journey on Instagram: @HikingWithoutAStitch

EP. 11 – Art, Naturism & The Nudist Diaries with Edward

this episode, I sit down with Edward, the creator behind The Nudist Diaries, to explore his journey into naturism and how it’s shaped the way he sees himself, others, and the world around him. We talk about the role art plays in challenging society’s tendency to sexualize the human body, and how Edward uses his drawings to present nudity in a natural, everyday, and non-sexual way. We also dive into the culture and atmosphere of nude beaches, including places like Wreck Beach in Vancouver and Three Mile Beach in Penticton, and what makes each space unique. Throughout the conversation, we touch on body acceptance, community, etiquette, and the importance of creating safe, respectful environments where people can simply exist as they are. This is a real and honest conversation about breaking stigma, finding comfort in your own skin, and seeing the human body for what it truly is — natural. ⸻ Resources The Nudist Diaries – The musings and rantings of a Nudist in a world gone mad. [https://nudistdiaries.com/] Sarah Hester – Naked in the Woods – Project Naked [https://projectnaked.org/2016/09/22/sarah-hester-naked-in-the-woods/] Let’s Talk About My Latest Drawing – The Nudist Diaries [https://nudistdiaries.com/lets-talk-about-my-latest-drawing/] Let’s Talk About Why I Draw What I Do – The Nudist Diaries [https://nudistdiaries.com/lets-talk-about-why-i-draw-what-i-do/] Let’s Talk About Three Mile Beach – The Nudist Diaries [https://nudistdiaries.com/lets-talk-about-three-mile-beach/] Get NAKED + Be Free + Be Kind Follow the journey on Instagram: @HikingWithoutAStitch