Show Description:

In this inspiring episode of Dustin’s Kaleidoscope, Dustin Dumas sits down with Nicole Snell—solo hiker, self-defense expert, and passionate advocate for personal empowerment.

Nicole shares her journey from childhood explorations in nature to leading self-defense trainings across the country. She opens up about the fears many face around solo hiking, and how preparation, intuition, and confidence can transform fear into freedom.

Together, Dustin and Nicole dive into topics like:

• Setting and respecting boundaries

• Building self-trust and intuition

• Why self-defense training matters, especially for students and professionals

• The balance between staying safe and fully enjoying the outdoors

• How solo adventures can change the way you see yourself

  
  

Nicole also previews her upcoming TEDx Talk and shares her vision for making empowerment and safety skills accessible to all.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a student navigating independence, or someone looking to own your space in the world—this episode will leave you energized and ready to move with confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Empowerment training should be foundational, especially for young adults entering new environments (like college or the workforce).

• Verbal and social strategies are essential tools in preventing violence, not just physical tactics.

• Bystander intervention plays a vital role—Nicole includes this in her programs to create community responsibility.

• Confidence builds over time—starting with using your voice, trusting your intuition, and then expanding into physical skills.

• We need proactive, accessible self-defense education until gender-based violence and harassment are no longer realities.

• Online access removes barriers—Nicole’s on-demand course allows anyone, anywhere to build these critical life skills.

• Personal safety is a human right, not a privilege—and teaching it can reshape how people experience the world around them.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Solo Hiking and Personal Background

02:50 The Journey from Solo Hiking to Sharing Experiences

05:55 The Birth of Outdoor Defense

09:00 Understanding Boundaries and Self-Defense

11:56 Empowerment Through Hiking and Overcoming Fear

15:09 Balancing Vigilance and Joy in Hiking

25:17 Exploring Favorite Hikes

29:16 Preparing for Long Hikes

34:42 Choosing Hiking Trails

39:50 Self-Defense Programs for Students

44:11 Future Plans and Goals

Nicole Snell

Websites:

• www.nicolesnell.com

• www.girlsfightback.com

Instagram:

• @adventuresofnik

• @girlsfightback

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NicoleSnellOutdoorDefense

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/girlsfightback

TedX Talk: https://youtu.be/_UETjFX0ErU?si=Uw5D5bE9sx96ahM8

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