Today, we’re honored to sit down with Mel Telford, a woman whose love for the outdoors is matched only by her resilience and heart. As an ambassador for Women Who Explore, Mel not only encourages women to step outside and discover the world around them but also to forge connections that last a lifetime. Her story weaves through challenges like endometriosis and motherhood, yet she continues to embrace the beauty of the unknown. In this conversation, Mel shares how the outdoors healed her, how friendships were born on mountain peaks, and how every step she takes in nature is a step toward her truest self.
Inspiring Exploration
TBN: Mel, can you share what inspired you to become an ambassador for Women Who Explore, and how this platform aligns with your passion for the outdoors?
MT: I was at a point in my life where I felt I had started to lose a part of myself to the busyness that comes with being a working mom. I grew up immersed in nature, I went on my first backpacking trip at 12, and I just loved to be outdoors. I needed to challenge myself to find that part of myself again, and Women Who Explore was right in front of me. So I jumped right in and didn’t look back.
TBN: What do you find most rewarding about inspiring other women to explore the outdoors and connect with nature?
MT: The connections! I’ve met so many new friends and so many different people. I love learning different people’s stories and finding common ground in nature.
Amy Melanie Photography
Balancing Motherhood and Adventure
TBN: Has your love for the outdoors influenced your approach to motherhood? How?
MT: Absolutely! My kids have learned so much just from being in nature. There are so many opportunities in the wild for children to explore and learn things about safety and science and art. Everything can be learned from nature if you have the patience to show down, look, and listen. They are still working on the patience part, though.
TBN: What challenges have you faced balancing outdoor adventures with raising two children, and how have you overcome them?
MT: It’s definitely hard to find a balance between my family and my outdoor adventures. And honestly, it’s something that I haven’t quite mastered yet. I’m so lucky to have a partner who understands the value my adventures have on both my mental and physical health. But finding that healthy balance is something that I am still working on.
Overcoming Adversity
TBN: Your journey with endometriosis and motherhood is incredibly inspiring. Can you share how this experience has shaped your perspective on resilience and gratitude?
MT: Endometriosis is something that I have in common with so many women, and I have been fortunate to have found doctors who have taken my symptoms seriously from a young age. I was diagnosed and started being treated in my early twenties. I am so grateful for that privilege. My kids are the best reminders of that. They are everything I never thought I would have.
TBN: What message do you hope to convey to other women who might be facing similar challenges with endometriosis or other health issues?
MT: As women, we know our bodies better than anyone. If you don’t feel like you are being heard, don’t be quiet. There are doctors out there who will listen. Keep advocating for your health until you get the support you need. You are not alone and there are so many more of us who will be here to stand behind you.
Building Community and Connection
TBN: How do you create a sense of community among women through your outdoor adventures and content? Why do you think it’s important to build these communities?
MT: Bringing people together to find common ground is my jam. I’m a social studies teacher by day, so I’m teaching connections and collaboration constantly. We are social creatures by nature, and sometimes the weight of the world makes that hard to remember. Coming together and sharing our stories is how we lift that weight, and that’s what I try to do.
TBN: Can you share a memorable experience or friendship that was formed through your work with Women Who Explore?
MT: There are too many to choose just one! All of the women I’ve connected with have been amazing.
Amy Melanie Photography
Personal Growth
TBN: How do you approach becoming your “better self” while balancing motherhood, adventure, and everything else life throws your way?
MT: With the understanding that perfect should never be my goal. I try not to put too much on my plate – physically or emotionally. And remind myself that it’s okay to say no to things if the timing isn’t right. But if it is, then definitely say YES!
TBN: Thank you so much Mel for your time and openness. I hope our paths meet again soon!
Click here to check all the interviews from our “Empowered Women Empower Women” series.
