307: How Gay Camping Helps You Overcome Social Anxiety & Embracing Mistakes – Upton Rand

When life hands you lemons, you go camping, even if you didn't
think you liked camping. Inspired by his journey of recovering from
divorce and an abusive relationship, Author Upton Rand shares how
he found peace and a path forward even when his life was at it's
darkest moments. In his books, Upton blends humor with heartfelt
experiences as he recounts hilarious misadventures—from wrestling
with uncooperative tents to witnessing drag queens having
dance-offs with confused deer. Along the way, he also shares
valuable insights into the LGBTQ+ camping community and promotes
health, wellness, and safe outdoor experiences. In this exciting
episode with Upton Rand, you’ll discover:


How he overcame social anxiety and found his
way back to living boldly.


The powerful lesson he's learned about embracing
mistakes and turning them into growth.


How he developed a "step through and keep going"
mentality that keeps him moving forward, no matter
what.


Tune in for a dose of inspiration, laughter, and practical advice
to take on life with confidence! About Upton Upton Rand is an
adventurer, storyteller, and the author of “Gay Campgrounds: The
Ultimate Gay Camping Travel Guide.” Blending humor with heartfelt
experiences, Upton’s book is part travel guide, part hilarious
memoir, capturing the wild and wonderful world of gay camping. He
shares misadventures that range from wrestling uncooperative tents
to witnessing drag queens having dance-offs with confused deer, all
while providing valuable insights into the LGBTQ+ camping
community. A passionate advocate for health and wellness, Upton is
committed to promoting safe and informed experiences within the
community. He’s a strong supporter of PrEP and the U=U movement
(Undetectable = Untransmittable), breaking down important research
in an accessible and entertaining way within his book.
Additionally, a portion of his book sales is donated to the
Cleveland AIDS Task Force, reflecting his dedication to giving
back. Whether he’s encouraging a generation to step away from
dating apps and reconnect face-to-face or sharing laughter-filled
anecdotes from his journeys, Upton brings warmth, humor, and
inspiration to every conversation. Connect With Upton Website Hey
Guys, Check This Out! Are you a guy who keeps struggling to do that
thing? You know the thing you keep telling yourself and others
you’re going to do, but never do? Then it’s time to get real and
figure out why. Join the 40 Plus: Gay Men Gay Talk, monthly chats.
They happen the third Monday of each month at 5:00 pm Pacific -
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Gay Talk Community Break free of fears. Make bold moves. Live life
without apologies