Episode 148: Finding Identity on the Trail with Carly Rae “Hippea” Brunault
“That’s what’s kept me going, is everyone’s enthusiasm toward sharing their story”
This week, we're exploring how the wilderness offers a powerful chance for transformation and self-discovery. Nature provides the freedom to embrace new identities without judgment, and for hikers, this often takes shape through the tradition of trail names. Our guest, Carly Rae Brunault—better known on the trail as "Hippea"—joins us to share her experience. Carly is the author of Trail Name Tales, a captivating collection of stories about the remarkable people she encountered while thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail.
A professional photographer from Western Massachusetts, Carly embarked on this challenging journey as part of her healing process after a personal tragedy. Along the way, she not only found her own path to recovery but also inspired countless others with her story. Join us as we dive into her journey of healing, connection, and adventure.
Carly Rae also discusses:
1:50 - Trail Name Tales
3:10 - How someone gets their trail name
4:40 - How she got her trail name
6:00 - A deeper connection to this project
8:45 - A few of her favorite trail names
12:40 - The start to a deeper conversation with people on the trail
15:20 - How she carried out this project on the trail
16:45 - What it’s like for her to be recognized on the trail because of this project
18:15 - How she started on the Appalachian Trail
22:00 - What is healing about the Appalachian Trail?
25:00 - How control plays a part on the trail
26:15 - What contributed to her healing along the trail
27:30 - How life compares on the trail vs everyday life
30:30 - How the book and what others got out of it contributed to her growth
31:20 - One More Day on the Appalachian Trail
36:00 - Words of encouragement to those listening who may be suffering from substance abuse
38:15 - Other projects she is working on
41:30 - Who is going to play her in a Hollywood movie about her life
You can learn more about Carly Rae and her adventures by following her on Instagram @trailnametales, @carlyraephoto, @hippeagypsy, @dearaddict, or her website Carlyraephoto.com.
Be sure to check out her new book Trail Name Tales on Amazon.
You can learn more about One More Day on the Appalachian Trail who provides annual scholarships to individuals who have struggled with obstacles of their own and are looking to find a sense of adventure and healing on the trail by following them on Instagram @onemoredayontheat or their website OneMoreDayontheAT.com.
See below for photos Carly Rae shared from her adventures.
Watch the Full Behind The Scenes Episode
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