Carly Cahoon talks with Cameon Orel from the Women's Outdoor Connection about her personal experiences and how women can overcome societal pressures to embrace their true selves through outdoor experiences.
Carly holds a Master’s in Community Leadership, her research focused on the transformative power of nature in fostering body image resilience.
At the heart of every outdoor experience is a personal journey of connection, growth, and healing. Recently, Cameon (Ops Lead & Chief Bottle Washer) had the pleasure of sitting down with Carly Cahoon. Carly’s story is one of resilience, a deep connection to nature, and a passion for helping women discover their own strength. In this interview, she shares her personal insights and how outdoor experiences have shaped her life.
Read more below or click the image to watch or listen on YouTube.
Cam: Hi, everybody! I'm here with Carly Cahoon from Amethyst and Aspen. We're just here to chat a little bit. I’m from the Women’s Outdoor Connection, and I’m really excited to talk with Carly. We met at one of our events, and I was so inspired after just the first sentence. Carly, let’s start by telling people a little bit about yourself.
Carly: I’m Carly Cahoon. I’m from Salt Lake City, Utah, but I’ve been in Seattle for a couple of years now. I’ve been passionate about building community around the outdoors, something I feel very deeply connected to. I completed my graduate school thesis on women’s experiences in the outdoors, and how those experiences shape our sense of self. It was so enlightening to see something I’ve always felt come to life in research – that the outdoors offer more than just recreation. There’s a sense of belonging and healing that nature gives us, which is powerful and personal.
Cam: That’s incredible. What would you say has been one of the biggest challenges since moving to Seattle?
Carly: The biggest challenge has been finding groups and people who want to experience the outdoors in the same way I do. At this stage of my life, my motivation for outdoor activities has shifted. I’m not out to be the fastest or go the furthest – I’m here for the experience. Finding a community that’s inclusive and willing to enjoy nature at different paces has been a challenge, but it’s also opened me up to some wonderful connections through events like the Women’s Outdoor Connection.
Cam: I love that you focus on the experience over the gear or the distance. It’s so easy to get caught up in thinking we need all the right things to enjoy the outdoors. But sometimes, all you need is a good pair of shoes and the will to step outside.
Carly: Exactly! We often think we need to be perfect or have the right gear to enjoy the outdoors, but really, just showing up is enough. One of the most memorable things for me is how we can connect with nature in simple, everyday ways. Whether it's taking care of plants at home or having a quiet moment while hiking, it’s about being present and appreciating what nature offers us.
Cam: Speaking of memorable, you’ve mentioned some amazing outdoor experiences. What’s one of your favorites?
Carly: Oh, there are so many! As a kid, I summited the Grand Teton with my family, and those memories will always be special. But now, I find joy in the smaller, more intentional experiences – like taking care of plants or just being quiet in nature. I had this moment recently while kayaking, where a bald eagle flew right over me, and it was magical. Those small connections to the natural world are what ground me.
Cam: That’s so beautiful, Carly. And it’s exactly what we’re trying to cultivate at the Women’s Outdoor Connection – a space where all women, no matter their skill level, can find that same connection and empowerment in nature.
Carly: It’s been a truly beautiful experience. I’ve made new friends and had meaningful conversations at your events, which is what it’s all about – building community and supporting each other. It’s incredible to be in spaces where women are not only encouraged but celebrated for sharing their stories and experiences in the outdoors.
Cam: You’ve done amazing work building Amethyst & Aspen, a space for women to heal and connect through nature. How did that journey begin for you?
Carly: Amethyst & Aspen started as my capstone project for my master’s degree. I’ve always been passionate about body image resilience, and I wanted to create a healing space for women where we could share our stories, connect, and heal together. The outdoors has always been my anchor – it’s where I found confidence and strength when I needed it most. I wanted to build a community where women could experience that same empowerment through nature. The name Amethyst & Aspen reflects that: amethysts are healing stones, and aspens are the largest living organism, connected by a single root system. It’s a beautiful metaphor for the healing and connection I hope women find in the space.
Cam: That’s so inspiring. What advice would you give to women who are just starting to explore outdoor activities, especially if they’re intimidated by the idea of not being “good enough”?
Carly: My advice is simple: just show up. You don’t need to be the fastest or the strongest to enjoy the outdoors. It’s not about the gear, the distance, or the achievements. It’s about connecting with yourself and with nature. My new life motto is that it’s okay to be “mediocre” at things – to let go of perfection and just enjoy the experience. You are enough just as you are, and showing up for yourself is what matters most.
Cam: That’s such a powerful message, Carly. I think so many women need to hear that – especially in today’s world where there’s so much pressure to perform.
Carly: Absolutely. The outdoors gives us a break from the way we’re often objectified in society. When we’re in nature, we’re not judged for how we look. We become part of something bigger, and that’s incredibly freeing. It’s hard to teach this in just one conversation or one outdoor experience, but that’s why it’s so important to create spaces for women to come together and have these experiences regularly.
Cam: That’s exactly what we’re working toward with the Women’s Outdoor Connection – creating opportunities for women to connect with nature, with themselves, and with each other. I’m so excited that you’ll be joining us again for our event on October 26th. Is there anything you’d like to share before we wrap up?
Carly: I’m just really excited to be part of this event and to continue building connections with women who share a love for the outdoors. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or just starting out, there’s a place for you in this community. I’m looking forward to meeting more amazing women and sharing these experiences with all of you.
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