She Disappeared Into the Wilderness—and Came Back Changed


Hi Reader,

What if your voice was the story? This week, we’re exploring how creativity becomes a lifeline—from melodies that heal to words that wake us up. Our guests took wildly different paths, but both show how storytelling—through music, writing, or just showing up—can change everything.

"Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are."
— Brené Brown

🎙️ Meet This Week’s Rebels

He Lost Everything—Then Picked Up a Guitar 🎸
Outlaw country artist Duane Parker didn’t just write songs—he survived with them. In one of our most honest episodes yet, Duane opens up about the heartbreak that brought him to music, how faith kept him going, and why he'll never chase trends in a world full of noise. It all leads to a powerful live performance of his original song, “Three More Sets To Go.”

⛷️ She Left Everything Behind After One Trip to Alaska
What happens when you stop following the rules—and start listening to your courage? In this electrifying episode, adventurer and women’s empowerment advocate Jennie "AdrenaJen"Milton shares the story of how one bold trip to Alaska shattered her idea of a “normal life” and set her on a path of radical self-discovery. From conquering fear through wild adventures to helping other women find their power through kite camps and children’s books, Jennie proves that courage isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build. Her story is a wake-up call to anyone ready to live with purpose, freedom, and fire.

✨ From the Heart of the Storm: Wisdom You’ll Actually Feel

💡 This week’s guests prove something we all need to hear—you don’t have to sound like anyone else to have something worth saying. Whether it's songwriting or soul-writing, they remind us that the real magic happens when you stop performing and start expressing.

Their stories are threaded with resilience, faith, and the raw courage to keep going—even when the path looks nothing like what they expected. Whether you're holding a guitar, a pen, or a secret dream, remember: your voice is your power.


📖 New from Jennie Milton: Gale and the Red Kite of Courage
This empowering children’s book is a heartfelt tale of bravery, self-belief, and finding your inner strength—even when the wind is wild. Whether you're reading it to your kids or letting it speak to your inner child, Gale and the Red Kite of Courage is a story that uplifts and inspires.

✨ A must-read for anyone on a journey to reclaim their voice. [Grab your copy here]


💌Keep the Love Flowing

📲 Stay connected with us: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube

Keep Questioning, Keep Exploring, and Most Importantly—Keep Flying Upstream.

🦅 With gratitude,
Kristyn & Luisa

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links. Thank you for your support!

Flying Upstream Podcast

Welcome to 'Flying Upstream,' a podcast dedicated to uncovering the choices, practices, and wisdom that defy mainstream norms. Join hosts Kristyn Medeiros and Luisa Anderson as they explore how timeless wisdom and unique lifestyle choices foster healthier, sustainable, and enriching lives. Perfect for those who feel like they're flying north for the winter while everyone else is flying south. Tune in to discover inspiring stories, gain practical insights, and connect with a community of free spirits who value deep, thoughtful explorations into alternative ways of living. Listen on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, or join us for more engaging content through our mini courses on Udemy.

Read more from Flying Upstream Podcast

Hi Reader, 🌪️ This Week’s Current Is Anything But Gentle Let’s be real: healing isn’t a spa day—it’s a battle for your own damn alignment. It’s messy, brave, sometimes lonely, but always worth it. And it doesn’t come from approval, permission, or following the rules. It comes from choosing YOU—over and over again. This week on Flying Upstream, we’re breaking open what freedom really looks like when you’ve been told to sit down, shut up, or stay small. Through poetry, skiing, van life, and...

Hi Reader, 💥 We’re still riding high after hitting 100+ episodes of Flying Upstream — and it’s all thanks to you. Every listen, every share, every brave story you've embraced has helped us build something real. This isn’t just a podcast — it’s a movement. A celebration of people who choose to break the mold, heal out loud, and carve their own path. This week, we’re bringing you two guests who prove that healing doesn’t come in one shape or speed. From bold artistic expression to the quiet...

Hi Reader, 🌊The Current Flowing This week on Flying Upstream, we’re taking a moment to reflect — not just on how far we’ve come, but on the stories that got us here. We recently crossed the 100-episode mark (🎉), and instead of spotlighting a single milestone, we’re honoring the voices that have made this journey unforgettable. From heartbreak to healing, from trauma to transformation, these guests have reminded us again and again that your story is your strength. Whether you're seeking...