Empower Yourself

I offer an inspirational presentation based on the universal truths that became very clear to me during my “thru”-hikes of the Appalachian (2,200 miles) and Pacific Crest Trails (2,700 miles). It is centered around the theme of self-transformation: transcending circumstances and stepping into one’s own power. I answer the question of why I undertake these long journeys in the first place, discuss some of the obstacles I have overcome (both in life and on the trail), and share some of the life lessons I have learned on these long hikes. My hope is to inspire people to step outside of their comfort zones, tap into their greater potential, and discover what makes them come alive. Many of the things that I learned on my journey are universal principles, which apply to ALL human beings- not just backpackers. The trail is a very simplified environment in which so much of the external stimuli that we are constantly bombarded by is eliminated. When stripped of many of the constant demands placed upon us, we are able to focus more internally, listen to ourselves more closely, and receive lessons that take much longer to learn in the busy world that we live in. The story I tell is personal, spiritual, and ultimately, is about reclaiming one’s life. I also share a slideshow of photos that I took along my PCT journey, set to music, that allows the viewer to vicariously experience the journey with me. I then hold a question and answer session.
I have given this presentation over 75 times and the responses have been tremendous.

Why would a person leave the comforts of society behind to walk a 2 foot wide dirt path across the country? What happens when you open yourself to the unknown and all of the experiences that unfold along a backpacking trip spanning thousands of miles? How can you experience the unknown without stepping foot anywhere?

In this presentation, Wendy Johnston shares some of the wisdom that became clear to her during her 6,000 miles of backpacking across the country (on the Appalachian, Pacific Crest, and Colorado Trails)- lessons that can be applied universally to anyone or any situation in life. Her talk pairs inspiration with principles required to achieve desired dreams.

Long distance backpacking is as much an internal journey as it is an external, physical journey.
In sharing what drew her to such journeys, some of the obstacles that she overcame to accomplish her goals, how her experiences transformed her life, and how the lessons she learned along the way can be applied to your own life, she hopes to inspire you to take action toward your own dreams.

Wendy is here to remind you to remain true to yourself and your own path in life, that every challenge can be turned into an opportunity, and that you possess a well of potential that can be tapped into at any time.

I also offer presentations on "How to Achieve Freedom from Suffering: It’s all in the Mind!"
All suffering stems from what we are thinking and believing. It is not dependent on the circumstances we are in. In this presentation, I share simple techniques on how to end your suffering, achieve mental freedom, and reclaim peace and empowerment. It’s not about the events that happen to you, but your interpretation of them. If you can change your thoughts about a situation, you can change your life!

Testimonials

“Thank you for a very engaging, thought-provoking and beautiful presentation. To say that the audience was engaged, would be an understatement. They did not want to let you go!
You are amazing, and should pat yourself on the back for your courage in overcoming overwhelming odds both on the trail and off.”
– Michelle LeMonde-McIntyre
Supervisor of Community & Outreach Services, Framingham, MA Public Library

“Your story is inspiring, compelling, and intensely engaging.”
-Bruce R. Mendelsohn
Trustee, Auburn, MA Public Library

“Thanks again for a great program. It was one of the most well received programs I have had. I feel like a lot of people left awestruck by your story and by your beautiful photos.”
-Kelsey Matthews, Athol, MA Public Library

“Your Inspiring Story and Presentation…
I attended your Sawyer Library (Gloucester) presentation and was thrilled to “experience” your powerful verbal presentation, photo and musical slide show. As a retired higher education educator I’ve seen many presentations and yours ranks in the top 5%. Congratulations!
Your message of struggle, aspiration, challenge, commitment and redemption resonated with me (and many other attendees.)”
-Dr Daniel Duffy, Former Vice-President of Student Affairs, Ocean County College

“Wendy’s talk was moving, inspirational, and fascinating. The stories she shared of her motivation to hike, her dedication despite illness and other obstacles, and her love for nature all made the evening one people are still talking about. The photos of her trek are beautiful. We’ve received so many compliments from our public about this event. For any community with hikers, nature lovers, or photographers, Wendy is a must-have.”
 -Meagan Parker, Programming and Community Outreach Librarian

Cary Memorial Library, Lexington, MA

“I want to thank you again for your truly wonderful program. It was so well constructed and carefully thought out. I don’t think enough can be said of the strength, courage, and emotional fortitude your journeys and choices demonstrate.”
-Robin Flynn
Head of Communications, Beverly Public Library, Beverly, MA

“Your talk is a much needed resource and inspiration for others that are searching for self fulfillment.”
-Armida Geiger
Adult Program Event Coordinator
Durham Public Library, Durham, NH

“Very interesting and unique! Wendy is a smart, diligent, passionate and earnest person who has put together a compelling presentation on her experience of being a long distance hiker and the inward and outward journeys therein. Her talk is simultaneously informational, inspirational, vulnerable and strong.”
– Checka Antifonario

“I came to your talk at the Chicopee Library and again at the Wilbraham Library. I loved listening to your story of adventure on the PCT and found the photographic presentation that followed to be magnificent. Your choice of musical accompaniement captured my imagination and enhanced the whole experience. I was so lucky to be there!”
-Marcia Manning

I received my education from Phillips Academy Andover and Mount Holyoke College, graduating with a BA in Biology. I worked as a researcher in a biochemistry lab at MIT for 16 years, where I published a first author article in the journal, Science. I have completed "thru-hikes" of the Appalachian, Pacific Crest, and Colorado trails, backpacking each in one stretch. I grew up in an extremely challenging family environment and have overcome tremendous challenges in many areas of life. I am now a Mindset and Self-Transformation Coach and Speaker. My mission in life is to help empower people to make conscious choices to better their health and quality of life, and transcend their own life obstacles.

I only need a projector, screen, and microphone for my presentation. A podium would be helpful.