We had the good fortune of connecting with Tiffany Lin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tiffany, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I first started Follow Tiff’s Journey, there wasn’t a detailed plan or strategic business model—it all unfolded organically from my unexpected passion for hiking and the outdoors. What began as a personal journal and simple social media sharing quickly transformed into something much more significant. I found myself not only documenting my own experiences for myself but also creating a space to share transformative adventures and inspire others to explore beyond their comfort zones. The blog became a space to share the adventures and help others get out and explore on their own.

Growing up in a sheltered environment and living a very different lifestyle before discovering the outdoors, this shift was nothing short of transformative. Nature brought me peace, joy, and a sense of belonging—a meditative space that offers more than physical adventure. It became a pathway to personal growth, breaking free from societal expectations and reconnecting with a simpler, more authentic version of myself, which I now passionately want to share with others.

As my passion deepened, I realized there was an opportunity to turn Follow Tiff’s Journey into something bigger than just a hobby. I wanted to encourage others—especially women—to step away from the pressures of modern life and embrace nature’s ability to reset the mind and soul, even if just for the weekend. The decision to build it into something more came naturally as I saw the potential to make a real impact and inspire people to explore and rediscover themselves in the great outdoors.

Ultimately, Follow Tiff’s Journey isn’t just about hiking; it’s a movement of personal transformation. It’s about showing that stepping off the beaten path leads to powerful growth, facing fears, and discovering a different self—one trail (or climb) at a time.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a creative, my art goes beyond simply capturing the beauty of the outdoors; it thrives in the compelling storytelling that accompanies those moments. All of my photography is done on mobile, proving that you don’t need an expensive camera or professional training to capture stunning content. Each experience in nature has deepened my narrative skills, transforming me into a more effective storyteller and writer. I find immense joy in sharing these adventures on my blog, where I blend informative content with engaging narratives that truly resonate with my audience.

I’ve learned that nothing in life comes easily, and my journey reflects this truth. Many of my challenges are deeply personal, stemming from being raised in a traditional Taiwanese family and choosing to deviate from the path they envisioned for me—though that’s a story for another day. Each obstacle has shaped my perspective and fueled my passion for inspiring others to embrace their own outdoor adventures.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, I’ve only been in Colorado for one year now so I probably am not the best person to ask. I also think any drive less than 6 hours is a “short” road trip so with a week long trip, I’d tell my friend let’s get out of the city and go explore the San Juan Mountains. I don’t know cities too well but I know mountains and Ouray is one of my favorite little mountain towns.

We could take the southern route over to Ouray and stop by Little Red Hen Bakery in Salida for lunch or Poncho Pub for a delicious Italian sandwich.

Once we arrive in Ouray, the possibilities for exploration are endless. We could tackle via ferratas during the day, drive along the breathtaking Million Dollar Highway, go off-roading and camp under the stars, or hike to stunning alpine lakes in Ouray, Silverton, and Telluride. For those seeking even more adventure, we could attempt some 14ers and unwind in the evening at Orvis Hot Springs.

And of course, we must stop by Mouse’s Chocolates for my favorite Belgium dark hot chocolate during the cooler months and indulge in huckleberry ice cream when summer rolls around.

One week is not enough time to explore this region of colorful Colorado.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My journey with Follow Tiff’s Journey was already underway when I discovered a local hiking group in Los Angeles. Though the group no longer exists, it provided significant support and encouragement, helping me stay motivated and inspired during a crucial phase of my development.

The biggest catalyst for my current path, however, came from reading Johanna Garton’s book, “Edge of the Map,” about the late mountaineer Christine Boskoff. This powerful narrative ignited my passion for ice climbing and mountaineering, leading me to Chris Brinlee Jr., who became my mentor in the climbing world for the first couple of years.

Chris’s guidance and patience were instrumental in helping me face my fears and push beyond my comfort zone. His mentorship played a crucial role in my personal growth, inspiring me to challenge myself and, in turn, motivate others to do the same—which has currently become the core mission of Follow Tiff’s Journey.

I’m incredibly grateful for the supportive community I’ve found in Colorado. The team at Basecamp Ouray, especially founder Logan Tyler, deserves a special shoutout. As the best guides and humans in Ouray, they’ve been unwavering in their support of both my personal climbing journey and my mission to help women step out of their comfort zones through group adventures.

Above all, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to my amazing Instagram community. You’ve been the driving force behind Follow Tiff’s Journey, providing constant encouragement, sharing your own stories, and inspiring me every day. Your support has been the most crucial factor in this journey, and I’m truly grateful for each one of you.

This journey has shown me that growth often comes from unexpected places and people. From a book that sparked a new passion to mentors, communities, and followers who nurtured it, each step has been shaped by the collective spirit of encouragement and support. It’s this spirit that I now strive to pay forward through Follow Tiff’s Journey, creating a ripple effect of inspiration and personal growth.

Website: https://followtiffsjourney.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/followtiffsjourney

Facebook: https://facebook.com/followtiffsjourney

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@followtiffsjourney

Other: https://www.pinterest.com/followtiffsjourney/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.