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Andy Neal

@andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social
313 followers 29 following 71 posts

Mental Health Advocate, Plus Size Hiker, Model & Filmmaker | Oregon is home | andyneal@iamsocial.la

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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 17/07/2025
I’m usually the positive one. The encourager. The steady voice. But the second I say something that isn’t shiny or light, people flinch. Push back. Correct. It makes you want to shut it all down. Not everything I feel needs to be fixed. Sometimes I just need to feel it.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 17/07/2025
I’ve spent most of my life being non-confrontational and “agreeable.” And honestly? It’s made vulnerability really hard. Any time I express something that’s not overly positive …even if it’s just frustration or sadness …I get shut down or jumped on.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 16/07/2025
I just saw an ad on YouTube that was encouraging people to donate plasma for up to $700 a month. I understand this is something people have been doing for a while. I did it once in college…But that’s the state of our economy? Donating plasma to make ends meet? That’s how this commercial was framed.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 16/07/2025
Maybe this is a place I can be myself… who knows. The internet is so performative now…
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 01/07/2025
Excited to share I’ve joined 3Five as their new Social Media Strategist. We’re building a new kind of social platform,one that puts creators & connection first. If you’ve ever felt like social media lost its soul… This is your sign to check out what we’re building: www.3Five.app
w3five.app
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 22/05/2025
Did you know I’m posting longform YouTube videos on my YouTube channel, EVERY DAY! Check out the latest on mental health awareness month and don’t forget to subscribe! Mental Health Is Health | Why We Still Have to Say This Out Loud youtu.be/dgUG8r7AM1U
youtu.be
Mental Health Is Health | Why We Still Have to Say This Out Loud
YouTube video by Andy Neal
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 06/05/2025
I can finally say it — I’m speaking at Vidcon Anaheim 2025! I’ll be speaking out in industry panel titled “From Viral Moments to Sustainable Business Models” Anaheim. June 19–21. Dream come true. #VidCon2025 #CreatorJourney #VidCon #IndustryTrack @vidcon.bsky.social
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 06/05/2025
Would love to see this on display in Ashland for a season!
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 06/05/2025
Touch Some Grass Today (Your Brain Will Thank You) #TouchGrass #MentalHealth youtube.com/shorts/mHQ7a...
youtube.com
Touch Some Grass Today (Your Brain Will Thank You) #TouchGrass #MentalHealth
YouTube video by Andy Neal
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 06/05/2025
So close to 8000 subscribers on YouTube. I would love it if you subscribed and then like watched all my shorts and my videos and left comments & told all your friends or you can just subscribe… either way it’ll make me smile & hopefully my videos will make you smile! youtube.com/@andyfilmsan...
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 04/05/2025
OK I’m on other platforms and I seem to be finding success there as well. Like on Facebook. I post on Facebook between two and five times a day. So follow me there if you’d like. I’d be grateful… www.facebook.com/share/1BtGbW...
facebook.com
Redirecting...
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 03/05/2025
BIG NEWS! I’m hosting my first-ever YouTube Live tomorrow — and I’d love for you to join me! Sunday, May 4 5 PM Pacific / 8 PM Eastern Here’s the link to watch and join in: www.youtube.com/live/ASIP1Fz... Come hang out, ask a question, or just lurk and vibe. Hope to see you there!
youtube.com
Andy Neal is live Saturday May 3, 2025
Hey friends! I’m going live on Sunday, May 4 at 5 PM Eastern / 8 PM Pacific! I’ll be answering your questions, sharing more about my journey, and probably rambling about all kinds of nonsense too. Wou...
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 20/04/2025
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, that is all! :) Send this to someone who needs to go outside today! youtube.com/shorts/ETqKh...
youtube.com
Send this to someone who needs to go outside today!
YouTube video by Andy Neal
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 02/04/2025
I keep forgetting about this app.
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Reposted by Andy Neal
Jamie Hale @jamiehale.bsky.social · 13/03/2025
This week on the pod: We talk to @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social about his viral "stupid hikes for my stupid mental health," and about how he really finds peace in nature.
oregonlive.com
Oregon influencer discusses going viral, finding peace in the forest: Peak Northwest podcast
Andy Neal, known for his “stupid hikes for my stupid mental health,” is still exploring Oregon.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 07/03/2025
As a former Evangelical/ Southern Baptist pastor I have to say Speaker Mike Johnston is a wolf in sheep’s clothing, an enabler of evil, and a peddler of lies. I don’t know how he calls himself a Christian!
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 16/02/2025
Share this! Let’s Make Apple Maps Great Again! www.instagram.com/reel/DGGugV9...
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 12/02/2025
I had the chance to partner with Subaru at the Chicago Auto Show, and it was such an awesome experience! Check out this Reel from the event, and let me know— which new Subaru model are you most excited about? Your engagement really helps! Watch here: www.instagram.com/reel/DF-tK8S...
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 09/02/2025
New Blog Post: A Week Later: The Internet's Reaction to What I Saw in Seattle Last Week open.substack.com/pub/andyfilm...
open.substack.com
A Week Later: The Internet’s Reaction to What I Saw in Seattle Last Week
A week ago, I shared something unusual that I witnessed while having lunch in downtown Seattle.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 01/02/2025
Had lunch in downtown Seattle today when federal agents swarmed the restaurant next door, pulled an employee—still in their apron—into an SUV, and drove off. It happened so fast. I’m shaken.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 29/01/2025
The outdoors does wonders for my mental health. And with everything going on in the world right now it feels like only thing you can really do is scream at the sky. But be sure take some time for yourself, touch some grass, do what you need to do to make sure you’re taking care of your mentals!
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 25/01/2025
So I’m entering my YouTube Era and I would love it if you came along. My latest YouTube video talking about my upcoming section hike of the Oregon Pacific Crest Trail. New uploads every weekend, so also please subscribe… youtu.be/0yCNwAXANIw?...
youtu.be
Hiking the Oregon PCT | My Oregon Pacific Crest Trail Hike for Mental Health
YouTube video by Andy Neal
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 23/01/2025
It’s Denali. Nothing or no one can change that.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 21/01/2025
As a former evangelical pastor, I was told to support the right for the Supreme Court to protect “Christian values.” But in 2017, I realized it was never about Jesus’ teachings of love and justice—it was about power. That’s why I left, and I have no regrets.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 20/01/2025
Also… Now that TikTok is back I decided I’m just going to post there with reckless abandon, so if you don’t follow me there already.. do it now… please :) www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8FbtFpK/
tiktok.com
It’s easy to look like you’re doing the right thing, but the real challenge is having the courage to actually step up when it matters. In the days, weeks, months, and years ahead, I hope I’ll have the...
TikTok video by Andy Neal
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 20/01/2025
So I’m going to be posting consistently on YouTube, starting Sunday January 26! Subscribe now! It would make me happy :). youtu.be/EGg0GVyXvlM?...
youtu.be
Big News: Weekly Uploads Begin Sunday January 26 | Journey to the PCT
YouTube video by Andy Neal
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 18/01/2025
Broke 3,500 YouTube Subscribers… slow and steady growth… just keep creating! Subscribe if you’d like: youtube.com/@andyfilmsan...
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 14/01/2025
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek’s State of the State Address touched on mental health, but Oregon’s system is still failing our children and teens. I’ve written a blog breaking down where we’ve made progress and where we’re falling short. We need a mental healthcare state of emergency—here’s why.
open.substack.com
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek’s State of the State Address
Progress on Behavioral Health, but Oregonians Deserve More
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 13/01/2025
Posting on YouTube for the first time in a while — & it’s a big one. I’m opening up about my family & the mental health crisis in Oregon. It’s exhausting & heartbreaking, but this conversation needs to happen. If you’ve ever felt like you’re fighting an uphill battle for care — this one’s for you.
youtu.be
It's Okay to Not Be Okay, But Oregon is Failing Our Kid's Mental Health
YouTube video by Andy Neal
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 04/01/2025
Hey friends! If we’re not already connected on LinkedIn, let’s fix that! I’m sharing more there about advocacy, mental health, storytelling, & my work in the outdoors space. 💼 Let’s connect: www.linkedin.com/in/andyherndon #AndyFilmsAndHikes #MentalHealthAdvocacy #Storytelling #LinkedInConnections
linkedin.com
Andy Neal - Freelance | LinkedIn
As a filmmaker, social media influencer, and brand ambassador, I bring storytelling to… · Experience: Freelance · Education: Southern Oregon University · Location: Medford · 262 connections on LinkedI...
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 04/01/2025
New Blog Post over on my Substack: The System is Forcing Us to Choose: A Parent's Fight Against a Broken Mental Health System! While we have make some strides in the 36 hours since I wrote and posted this, I feel it’s still important to share. open.substack.com/pub/andyfilm...
open.substack.com
The System is Forcing Us to Choose: A Parent’s Fight Against a Broken Mental Health System
Today, we are standing at a cliff’s edge, being told to jump.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 03/01/2025
To be clear, I am aware of the irony. www.instagram.com/reel/DEXqZTF...
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 02/01/2025
I’d truly appreciate it if you could take a moment to share my latest Substack blog, “An Open Letter to Oregon Governor Tina Kotek”: [open.substack.com/pub/andyfilmsandh…
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Reposted by Andy Neal
Don Elkay @theteflondon.bsky.social · 16/12/2024
This is what we are feeling in Idaho. Ensuring my kid gets the right mental health support is a constant fight with an insurance company who thinks they should just be sent home.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 29/12/2024
Advocacy & influencing can be incredibly meaningful, but they can also be lonely. I’ve been working through the emotional toll of fighting for mental health while trying to rebuild my own life after leaving my past behind. Read more: open.substack.com/pub/andyfilm...
open.substack.com
The Loneliest Fight
Being an influencer might look glamorous from the outside—hundreds of thousands of followers, brand partnerships, and a platform that allows me to speak about things that matter.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 14/12/2024
New Blog on my Substack: Why Making Friends as an Adult Feels Impossible! open.substack.com/pub/andyfilm...
open.substack.com
Why Making Friends as an Adult Feels Impossible
Finding Friends as a 42 year old
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 14/12/2024
My power bill is $530 this month. What the heck? Our heating system is working great. We get it looked at every year. Filters are changed. Last month our thermostat never went beyond 68°. We’ve now set it to 62°F . We’re not using more power, the rates have just skyrocketed. ..this month is hard.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 13/12/2024
This past week has been one of the hardest of my life, fighting for my kids to get the mental health care they need in a broken system. I wrote about it on my Substack—this is now my life’s work. Please read and share to help push for change. open.substack.com/pub/andyfilm...
open.substack.com
This Is Now My Life’s Work
When I first started making videos about “going for a stupid hike for my stupid mental health,” I thought I was sharing something lighthearted and personal—a simple reminder to take care of yourself.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 11/12/2024
If you’re looking to support me and what I do, you can always support me with “But Me a Coffee”… Every little bit helps: buymeacoffee.com/andyfilmsandhikes
buymeacoffee.com
Andy Neal is outdoor and body positive video content creator!
I get asked all the time how people can support what I do. You can do a small one time show of monetary support here without any future obligation. I know sometimes subscriptions can be a little scary
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 10/12/2024
NEW BLOG POST ON MY SUBSTACK: I give my in depth thoughts on being featured in Jesse James West’s video "Is Obesity a Choice?" open.substack.com/pub/andyfilm...
open.substack.com
Me, as a Fat Influencer, Takes on ‘Is Obesity a Choice?’ with Jesse James West
A few weeks ago, I received an unexpected message from fitness influencer Jesse James West, inviting me to participate in a debate about obesity and choice alongside other influencers from both the fa...
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 07/12/2024
TIKTOK LIVE TONIGHT! Join me LIVE tonight at 8:15 PM! Let’s talk hiking, fitness, mental health, the great outdoors, movies, and whatever else you want to ask me—literally AndyThing! Come hang out, bring your questions, and let’s have some fun. www.tiktok.com/live/event/7...
tiktok.com
Ask Me AndyThing! - TikTok LIVE Events
0 viewers have registered for this event | Join me LIVE tonight at 8:15 PM PST Let’s talk hiking, fitness, mental health, the great outdoors, movies, & whatever else you want to ask me—literally Andy...
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 07/12/2024
New Substack Post: Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) In my latest post, I share our story of Reaction Attachment Disorder, how we’ve fought for resources, & why systemic change in mental health care is desperately needed. Read here: open.substack.com/pub/andyfilm... #MentalHealth #Advocacy #RAD
open.substack.com
Reactive Attachment Disorder
One of adoptions scariest, most common, yet least talked about and understood mental health diagnoses
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 06/12/2024
I have a new stupid hike for my stupid mental health video up on Instagram. You should really check it out: www.instagram.com/reel/DDPkZzY...
instagram.com
Login • Instagram
Welcome back to Instagram. Sign in to check out what your friends, family & interests have been capturing & sharing around the world.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 06/12/2024
So if you’re not on TikTok & want to be, use this link to sign up and then follow me at @Andyfilmsandhikes… if you’re on TikTok already just follow me at @Andyfilmsandhikes. That’s all…. www.tiktok.com/t/ZP8NjTCgc/
tiktok.com
Tap to get your TikTok Shop coupon
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 05/12/2024
Check in on your friends….
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 02/12/2024
Don’t forget to follow me on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@andyfilmsan...
tiktok.com
Andy Neal's Creator Profile
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 02/12/2024
Hey… You are ENOUGH!
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 02/12/2024
Hey… you are enough! www.instagram.com/reel/DCpz5No...
instagram.com
Login • Instagram
Welcome back to Instagram. Sign in to check out what your friends, family & interests have been capturing & sharing around the world.
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Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 02/12/2024
I feel I should have something to say… but I don’t!
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Reposted by Andy Neal
Andy Neal @andyfilmsandhikes.bsky.social · 26/11/2024
Featured in the Rogue Valley Times! The article highlights my 500-mile hike to raise awareness for Oregon’s mental health crisis & my fight for better services for kids. Read my latest Substack blog: andyfilmsandhikes.substack.com #MentalHealthMatters
andyfilmsandhikes.substack.com
Andy’s Substack | Andy Neal | Substack
Musing of a Plus Size Outdoorsy model, content creator, podcaster, & influencer who went to film school at 38 only to be making vertical videos for a living. Click to read Andy’s Substack, by Andy Nea...
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