Inspire Campfire

This week, we're honored to welcome J'aime Nowak, an award-winning international keynote speaker, leadership expert, and author who has spent over three decades transforming the lives of business professionals. Growing up on a sprawling farm in Rhode Island, J'aime developed an early connection with nature that would become the foundation for her approach to success: a calling to help others find calm in the chaos through the grounding power of the natural world.

J'aime takes us on a remarkable journey from her childhood in a 26-room house to losing everything at age twelve, traveling cross-country in an...

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Terry Cumes, Managing Director of the world-renowned retreat center Willka T’ika, nestled in Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Incas. Raised in the U.S. yet deeply rooted in the Andes through family and spirit, Terry bridges two worlds, blending modern Western sensibilities with the ancient wisdom of Andean cosmology.

Terry takes us on a transformative journey through the lush landscapes and spiritual heart of the Sacred Valley, where mountains are revered as living deities and the Quechua people honor Pachamama, Mother Earth, through rituals of gratitude and reciprocity. He sha...

This week, we're honored to welcome Sarah Safeer, a product manager in digital consulting based in New York City who has learned early on to prioritize experiences over things. Despite living in one of the busiest cities in the world, Sarah understands the grounding impact of nature and adventure, having traveled to 54 countries and counting while building an inspiring work-hard, play-hard lifestyle.

Sarah takes us on a journey through her transformation from a shy child to a confident solo traveler and adventurer. She describes that pivotal moment during her study abroad experience in Florence, Italy, when she...

This week, we are honored to welcome back Dr. Sandy Hazelip and Eleanor Hamby—the Two Traveling Nanas—on Inspire Campfire. At ages 80 and 81, these lifelong friends captured the world’s imagination when they circled the globe in 80 days, proving once and for all that adventure has no age limit.

Sandy and Ellie first met more than 25 years ago after both becoming empty nesters and then widows. Best friends from the start, their bond was strengthened through shared service work in Zambia and a deep commitment to living fully. What began as a playful late-night idea—“Wouldn’t it be fun...

This week, we're honored to welcome Oliver Treviso from Swansea, Wales, an adventurer whose extraordinary journey embodies the transformative power of getting lost to find yourself. Facing uncertainty and conflict between who he believed himself to be and who he wanted to become, Oliver made a bold decision that would change his life forever.

Oliver takes us on his incredible 20-month trek along the entire length of the Andes Mountains—from Argentina to Venezuela's Caribbean Sea. Covering seven countries and 14,000 kilometers on foot, he describes stepping off the plane in Argentina and feeling overwhelmed by the magnitude of...

This week, we welcome Paul Martino, Maria Martino, and Maria Wurtzbacher, who join host Scott Wurtzbacher to relive their fairytale on the Tour du Mont Blanc. A milestone-year idea became a self-guided loop of 100 miles around Mont Blanc across France, Italy, and Switzerland, 31,000 feet of climbing and 71 hours on trail, the kind of effort that turns friends into family.

They share the shift from vacation to quest, the music of cowbells, quiet chapels that steadied shaky moments, balcony paths and a ladder section, even a helicopter’s rotor wash on an exposed cliff. There is laughter at bo...

This week, we're honored to welcome Kijuan Amey, a resilient Air Force veteran, motivational speaker, and author of “Don’t Focus on Why Me.” Raised in Durham, North Carolina, Kijuan’s adventurous spirit and drive led him to serve as an in-flight fueling specialist in the United States Air Force, and to pursue entrepreneurial and academic goals. But everything changed in an instant when a motorcycle accident left him blind and facing a long, difficult recovery.

Kijuan takes us on a powerful journey through his transformation from independent achiever to someone forced to confront unimaginable loss—and ultimately...

This week, we're honored to welcome Sharyn Means, a New Zealand native and CEO of Dove's Rest Cabins, a stunning resort perched on the rim of the Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in the United States. Growing up in one of the most southern Pacific islands in the world, Sharyn developed a deep connection to the land and the Polynesian concepts of Kiara and Manaakitanga—principles that would eventually transform how she approaches hospitality and land stewardship.

Sharyn takes us on a journey through her transformation from corporate project manager to passionate advocate for meaningful ho...

This week, we're honored to welcome Mal Roe, founder and original elopement photographer of Vows with Views. Growing up in rural Ohio, Mal’s early fascination with adventure and the outdoors eventually evolved into a calling—to help couples celebrate their love in the wildest, most breathtaking places imaginable.

Mal takes us on a journey through her transformation from a small-town dreamer to a passionate creator of “Honey Lo” adventures—immersive, adventure-based elopement and honeymoon experiences. She describes that pivotal moment stepping into the Grand Canyon for the first time, feeling her world expand, and realizing she didn’t hav...

This week, we're honored to welcome Jessica DeAngelo, Chief Hiking Officer and founder of Hike to Become, with a background in global sales and strategy. Having worked with Fortune 500 companies like Amazon, Nike, and Uber, Jessica made a dramatic pivot from the corporate boardroom to the hiking trail, where she discovered something profound—that nature holds the key to unlocking our greatest business potential.

Jessica takes us on a journey through her transformation from high-achieving corporate executive to passionate advocate for nature-based business innovation. She describes that pivotal moment on a mountaintop in December 2023, when a simple qu...

This week, in the final part of our Everest Base Camp series, we're honored to welcome Karen Darke, Paralympic gold medalist, and adventurer whose extraordinary journey to Everest Base Camp redefines what it means to answer the call to adventure. From her early days as a passionate explorer to overcoming a life-changing accident that left her paralyzed, Karen’s story is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and the power of saying “yes” to life’s boldest invitations.

Karen takes us on a journey through her transformation from dreaming about adventure to living it—sharing the pivotal moment when a cas...

This week, in part 2 of our Everest Base Camp series, we're honored to welcome three extraordinary adventurers from our recent Everest Base Camp trek: Keith Davis, a real estate investor from Eugene, Oregon; Clare Brown, an upland ecologist from Scotland; and Sam Van Keulen, a real estate investor based in Burgundy, France. United by their spirit of adventure, these three individuals joined host Scott Wurtzbacher on an unforgettable journey through the Himalayas.

Our guests take us through their transformative experiences trekking to Mount Everest Base Camp, where they joined Paralympic gold medalist Karen Darke in her remarkable...

This week, we're honored to welcome Olga Bak, friend and advisor to Travel Nepal Himalaya's Treks, the local guide company that helped our group navigate the challenging journey to Mount Everest base camp. Developing an early connection with Nepal during her first trek in 2013, Olga's spontaneous "yes" to adventure evolved into something deeper—a calling to build bridges between travelers and this extraordinary Himalayan nation.

Olga takes us on a journey through her transformation from first-time trekker to passionate advocate for Nepal. She describes that pivotal moment when she climbed a 4,000-meter peak at 3 AM to witness th...

This week, we're honored to welcome Rue McKenrick, professional backpacker, conservationist, and the visionary behind the American Perimeter Trail—a 14,000-mile route that circumnavigates the continental United States. Growing up with a passion for both backpacking and conservation, Rue’s journey began with a simple idea: to be part of something bigger than himself and to create a lasting impact on the land he loves.

Rue takes us on an epic journey from the spark of inspiration—born on a ski lift in Oregon—to the reality of walking the perimeter of the country, scouting a route that wou...

This week, we're honored to welcome Zack Luttrell, an entrepreneur, adventurer, and community builder from Charlotte, North Carolina. Growing up with an event planner mother, Zack developed an early talent for bringing people together that eventually evolved into something deeper—a calling to create authentic experiences that connect people through shared passion.

Zack takes us on a journey through his transformation from corporate employee to visionary business owner. He describes that pivotal moment when, after losing his job during the recession, he turned his casual hobby of organizing Panthers fan events into a thriving community called Roaring Ri...

This week, we're honored to welcome Louis Alexander, a Guinness World Record-holding adventurer and endurance athlete from London. At just 25 years old, Louis has already achieved feats that most of us can only dream of—running marathons on all seven continents and swimming marathons in all seven seas. His journey has taken him from the frozen landscapes of Antarctica to the sweltering waters of the Arabian Sea, testing the limits of human endurance while raising tens of thousands of dollars for charity.

Louis takes us on a journey through his transformation from an ordinary young man to a...

This week, we’re honored to welcome Stephan Kesting, adventurer, firefighter, jiujitsu practitioner, and author of the new book Perseverance: Life and Death in the Subarctic.

Stephan shares the gripping story of his thousand-mile solo canoe expedition through the Canadian Subarctic—a journey he undertook after recovering from a life-threatening illness and a kidney transplant.

Stephan recounts how a near-death experience reshaped his perspective on life, inspiring him to finally pursue a decades-long dream of exploring one of the most remote and unforgiving regions of the world. From battling treacherous rapids and harsh weather to a chi...

This week, we're honored to welcome Bryan Murphy, creator and host of the popular podcast and social media brand "Hawaii's Best." Growing up in Southern California, Bryan developed an early fascination with the Hawaiian Islands that eventually evolved into something deeper—a calling to share Hawaii's magic with the world.

Bryan takes us on a journey through his transformation from casual tourist to passionate advocate for responsible travel to Hawaii. He describes that pivotal moment stepping off the plane for the first time, breathing in the warm Hawaiian air, and feeling an immediate connection that would shape hi...

This week, we’re honored to welcome Niki DiGaetano, a death doula from Salt Lake City, Utah, who has dedicated her life to supporting those at the end of theirs. Niki had long felt called to work with the dying, but it wasn’t until a 2022 section hike of the Appalachian Trail that she found the confidence to fully embrace that path.

After her journey on the trail, she told friends, "If I can find work that allows me to listen to people’s stories—the good, the bad, the ugly, traumatic, and triumphant—it would be the truest...

This week, we’re excited to welcome filmmaker Zach Carver for an in-depth look at a journey fueled by tradition, exploration, and sheer self-reliance. At the heart of our conversation is the Race to Alaska—a grueling, human- and wind-powered challenge through North America’s Inside Passage. With no engines, no support crews, and barely any rules, this race demands unwavering grit and determination from its competitors.

Zach Carver, the award-winning writer and director of the documentary Race to Alaska, spent over seven years capturing the essence of this extraordinary event. With more than 70,000 shots, he masterfully crafte...

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Oscar Newson-Smith, a visionary changemaker with an extraordinary story of purpose, resilience, and impact. Oscar is the founder of The Racso Project, a social enterprise dedicated to revitalizing Turkey's economy and infrastructure in the wake of three devastating earthquakes in 2023.

To amplify awareness and support for this critical mission, Oscar has undertaken an awe-inspiring journey: walking over 2,600 miles from London, England to Ankara, Turkey. His route spans 12 countries, weaving through forests, mountain ranges, bustling cities, and quiet towns, all fueled by a deep commitment to inspire hope and drive change.

This week on the podcast, we're joined by artist and world traveler Chris Matsushige for an unforgettable story from Pamplona, Spain. Every year, the historic Running of the Bulls attracts millions of spectators and daring participants who sprint alongside six bulls and six steers through the cobblestone streets of the city. Hailing from San Diego, California, Chris has not only explored countless countries through his art but also earned the badge of bravery by running with the bulls himself. Tune in as he shares his heart-pounding, firsthand account of this centuries-old tradition—equal parts adrenaline and cultural wonder.

This week on the podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Craig O’Boyle! Craig, a real estate entrepreneur from Colorado Springs, Colorado, lives by the mantra "work hard, play hard." Each year, he organizes a unique adventure for his close-knit group of friends, the self-dubbed “Outdoorsy Guys” (OGs). The twist? Craig is the only one who knows the destination. The rest of the crew shows up at the airport, ready to embrace the unknown.

In this episode, we dive into their unconventional approach to travel, the bonds forged through shared adventure, and the magic of stepping out of your...

This week on the podcast, we’re bringing you a powerful episode centered on compassionate leadership, belonging, social awareness, moral courage, and driving social change. These values are at the heart of the Charlotte Unity Project by the North Carolina Outward Bound School—a transformative initiative that begins with a free 7-day wilderness program for 48 high school students from 8 diverse schools across Charlotte, North Carolina.

In this program, students develop technical skills, engage in deep, meaningful conversations, and cultivate leadership and problem-solving abilities. Upon returning to school, they’re encouraged to join their high school’s Unity Club to...

This week on the podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Jeff Johns, a lifelong adventurer, filmmaker, photographer, and writer who has spent nearly half his life traveling the globe and living abroad. Jeff's journey is an inspiring tale of embracing discomfort and finding joy through world travel. From assisting in recovery efforts in Thailand after the 2004 tsunami to creating hit television shows for Discovery Channel, National Geographic, and the BBC, his experiences are nothing short of extraordinary.

Currently based in the Netherlands with his wife and daughters, Jeff is also the co-creator of What Doesn’t Suck, an a...

This week on the Inspire Campfire podcast, we’re excited to welcome Mary "Newfound" Leavines, a storyteller, writer, photographer, and the owner of a popular hostel for thru-hikers along the Appalachian Trail. Mary’s journey to the AT began with an inciting incident that set her on a path of self-discovery—one that led her to thru-hike the trail in 2022. During her time on the trail, she not only reconnected with her inner self but also rewrote her own story. Now, back home in Franklin, North Carolina, Mary has purchased a hostel to stay closely connected to the trail and pr...

This week on the Inspire Campfire podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Richard De Gouveia, a man who has dedicated his life to sharing his profound connection with animals, the environment, and the Earth. As the founder of Arc Earth, Richard leads transformative safari experiences that delve deep into Africa’s ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

Following a life-changing event, Richard left behind financial security and a traditional career to pursue his passion for the African bush. Today, his team at Arc Earth offers photographic and private safaris, as well as purpose-driven conservation trips that inspire a deep...

This week on the Inspire Campfire podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Chris Watson, the voice behind Adventure Diaries, a podcast that brings authentic tales of adventure, exploration, and the natural world to life. Chris joins us to explore the transformative power of storytelling and how sharing our journeys can ignite new adventures, inspire others to take action, and create a lasting legacy of exploration. Based in Glasgow, Scotland, where he lives with his wife and daughter, Chris is a passionate adventurer, certified paddle sports instructor, and Royal Yachting Association license holder who loves immersing himself in the great outdoors. <...

This week on the podcast, we’re joined by Kyle and Heather Ellison from Maui, Hawaii, a couple who built their relationship on a shared love for adventure. As their family grew, they realized that having kids didn’t mean giving up their passion for travel—instead, it became the foundation for an exciting family lifestyle. Together, they’re raising an adventure first family and have made travel a priority, cherishing the lasting memories and valuable lessons they share with their kids along the way. Today, they take us inside their journey, sharing how they make it work and why they...

This week on the podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Kristoff Druva, a passionate wildlife photographer from Denver, Colorado, who uses his lens to capture the beauty and fragility of nature. As the founder of Kristoff Druva Photography, Kristoff's work tells compelling stories that raise awareness about wildlife conservation and habitat protection.

His photography journeys have taken him across the U.S., where he's witnessed a rich diversity of wildlife and ecosystems. Kristoff partners with conservation nonprofits to shine a light on the delicate balance between nature and human impact, aiming to inspire us all to protect our...

This week on Inspire Campfire, we’re joined by Ty, an adventurer from Long Island, New York, who has made full-time travel his way of life. With extreme intentionality, Ty embraces every moment, living in the now while having a clear vision for each stage of his life. After graduating from business school, Ty found himself at a crossroads—get traditional work experience or take a leap and travel the world. He chose the latter, knowing that life is short, and you only get to live your twenties once.

Tune in to hear Ty’s stories of sponta...

This week, we’re joined by Lauren from @YorAdventures, a wife and mom of four boys from Eugene, Oregon, who discovered firsthand how transformative nature can be for mental health. When the pandemic hit in 2020, she quickly realized that being cooped up indoors was taking a toll on her family, so they made a bold decision: they bought a travel trailer and hit the road in search of adventure and healing. Over the course of five months, they visited 48 of the continental U.S. states.

Now, years later, Lauren reflects on the incredible places they explored, the me...

This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Anita Phillips, a remarkable individual who embodies the "work hard, play hard" philosophy. For 20 years, Anita thrived as a corporate lawyer in the bustling cities of London, Paris, and Hong Kong. But when she wasn’t navigating high-powered boardrooms, she was exploring the world with just a backpack and a tent. Now an executive coach, Anita calls the foothills of Mont Blanc in the French Alps home, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, two cats, and a brood of chickens.

Anita recently tackled the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, the pinn...

This week, we bring you the extraordinary tale of Sophie Matterson, a woman who left behind the familiar to embark on a life-changing journey across Australia with five wild camels. Hailing from Flinders Ranges in South Australia, Sophie traded her career in TV and film for an adventure that would reshape her life. What started as a brief break from her job in 2016 turned into an incredible 13-month odyssey. After turning 30, she set out to walk from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, traversing the vast, arid heart of Australia.

Sophie shares the highs, lows, and...

In this week’s episode, we explore the journey of embracing the unknown and finding the courage to face life’s greatest challenges. Our guest, Tyler Stallings—known as the Moto Photo Guy—has made a career of diving headfirst into thrilling situations that require unwavering trust in the outcome.

Joining us from Reno, Nevada, Tyler is an adventure photographer and digital creator who not only captures the thrill of the moment but lives it himself. Inspired by the film Into the Wild, Tyler recently embarked on a breathtaking five-week solo motorcycle journey from Reno to the Arctic O...

This week, we explore how travel and adventure can become lifelong companions, shaping our experiences across every stage of life. Our guest, Bob Delaney—trail name "Jon's Dad"—joins us from Columbus, Ohio, to share his remarkable journey. Now in his early sixties, Bob recently completed a 300-mile thru-hike along Sweden's Kungsleden, known as The King’s Trail, a 30-day adventure he gifted himself in retirement. From childhood explorations to fatherhood and now into retirement, Bob’s passion for adventure has been woven into every chapter of his life. Tune in to hear his inspiring story.

This week, we're exploring how the wilderness offers a powerful chance for transformation and self-discovery. Nature provides the freedom to embrace new identities without judgment, and for hikers, this often takes shape through the tradition of trail names. Our guest, Carly Rae Brunault—better known on the trail as "Hippea"—joins us to share her experience. Carly is the author of Trail Name Tales, a captivating collection of stories about the remarkable people she encountered while thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail.

A professional photographer from Western Massachusetts, Carly embarked on this challenging journey as part of her healing proc...

Join us for an inspiring journey to the highest peaks on every continent, known as the Seven Summits. Our guest, Bo Parfet, an adventurer from Kalamazoo, Michigan, has stood at the summit of each one and is here to share the powerful lessons he learned along the way. Bo, a member of the prestigious Explorers Club, is also a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and author of several books, including Die Trying and The Precipice of Life.

With master's degrees from the University of Michigan and Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management, Bo brings a relentless drive to make a difference...

In this week’s episode, we dive into the transformative journey from survival to success and, ultimately, significance. Our guest is Creek Stewart, a renowned wilderness survival instructor, author, and television host. With over 20 books on survival and preparedness under his belt, Creek is also the go-to survival expert for The Weather Channel, where he's hosted popular shows like Could You Survive? with Creek Stewart, SOS: How to Survive, and Fat Guys in the Woods.

Creek’s story is one of remarkable personal transformation, where his deep connection with nature played a pivotal role in his path from...

This week, we dive into the evolving role of adventure throughout life's transitions. Joining us is Tami Fandrei from Sacramento, California, who shares her inspiring journey. After her youngest child left for college, Tami felt an unexpected void, prompting her to realize that it was finally her time. Now in the second half of life, Tami has embraced her dreams with renewed energy, filling her days with explorations and adventures. In just a short time, she's already achieved so much—and she's only just begun.

In this week's episode, we’re joined by Michael McLaurin, a dedicated family man from Charlotte, North Carolina, who has a background in banking and operational risk. Michael’s story took an unexpected turn when, during the Covid lockdowns, he sought a new family activity that could break free from the constraints of the pandemic. This search led him to discover a newfound passion for sailing. Tune in to hear how Michael went from exploring his new interest to planning and executing a multi-day bareboat sailing expedition with his family, transforming a casual hobby into a remarkable adventure.

In today's episode, we explore how following your own call to adventure can inspire others to take action in their own lives. We're thrilled to welcome back Josh Sutton, our very first guest on the Inspire Campfire podcast. Josh returns to share updates on his incredible journey since he, his wife, and their five-year-old son, Harvey, thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2021. Harvey's achievement as the youngest person to complete the trail at such a young age continues to inspire many.

Their life-changing 7-month hike has opened doors to new adventures, including the creation of a documentary about...

In this episode, we delve into the art of breaking through barriers and embracing new perspectives. Our guest today, Saray Khumalo, exemplifies how the sky is not the limit—it's just the beginning. Joining us from Johannesburg, South Africa, Saray is an award-winning mountaineer, Guinness World Record holder, author, speaker, coach, and philanthropist.

In 2019, after three determined attempts, Saray made history by becoming the first Black African woman to summit Mount Everest. Her journey is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the power of dreams. Tune in to hear Saray's incredible story and learn how you, too, ca...

This week's episode is all about parenting adventurous kids, and we're literally taking the conversation to new heights. Our guest, Joe Evermore, is the father of three incredibly adventurous children, including his oldest, Sam, who at age 8, became the youngest person to ascend El Capitan, the iconic 3,000-foot rock face in Yosemite National Park.

Sam’s remarkable climb has garnered media attention worldwide, with features on the Today Show, Fox, and CNN, among others. Joe and his wife Ann have a unique philosophy on raising strong and courageous kids, and they truly practice what they preach alongside th...

In this week’s episode, we’re going to find out how a love of hiking goes from three guys in a garage to one of the world’s largest guide companies that in just over 20 years has served over 75,000 guests, grown to a team of 200 staff, and has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for conservation. Joining us is one of those three guys, Scott Cundy, one of the founders of Wildland Trekking which has grown like wild all fueled by a passion for the outdoors and something they call relentless improvement. 

A simple question changed the cour...

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome two extraordinary guests. First, we have David Allen, the mastermind behind the renowned Getting Things Done (GTD) system. His influential book, Getting Things Done, has been translated into over 28 languages and has empowered millions to organize their lives. The story behind GTD is truly captivating.

Joining us as well is Julie Ireland, Scott Wurtzbacher's coach from GTD Focus, the exclusive provider of individual GTD coaching in the US and Canada.

It was the GTD system and a handshake from David years ago that inspired our host, Scott Wurtzbacher...

Today, we delve into the fascinating world of hitchhiking, also known as thumbing. Our guest, Daniel from Los Angeles, California, has embraced the thumb life since 2013, embarking on over 10 epic long-distance hitchhiking journeys across North and South America, Africa, Europe, and Asia.

Tune in as we explore his incredible adventures and gain insights into the unique experiences and challenges of hitchhiking around the globe.

In this episode, we're journeying to Hawaii to explore the art and science of traditional Polynesian voyaging, guided by the experienced Bruce Blankenfeld. For over 600 years, the canoes that originally brought the first Hawaiians to their island home had vanished—until the 1970s, when artist Herb Kāne envisioned and built Hōkūleʻa, a double-hulled sailing canoe modeled after traditional designs. Bruce embarked on his first voyage with Hōkūleʻa in 1977 during training sails and has since navigated tens of thousands of miles across Polynesia, the Pacific, and the world, serving as both captain and navigator...

Join us this week on the podcast as we welcome Richard Campbell from Calgary, Canada, the visionary founder of 10Adventures. With a mission to inspire more people to embrace the joys of active travel, Richard's journey is nothing short of remarkable. An alum of both Harvard Business School and London Business School, Richard boasts over 20 years of business experience across three continents. Today, he dedicates his time to helping others embark on their own adventures. Tune in to hear his inspiring story and gain insights into the world of active travel.

Welcome to another inspiring episode. This week, we're thrilled to have Justin Rosales from Charlotte, North Carolina, share his incredible journey. Discover how a small-town boy came to believe that all things are possible and embarked on a life journey to prove it.

Justin is a strategist at Elevation Church, a Christian entrepreneur, and co-author of "Becoming the Iceman," a book he wrote with the legendary Wim Hof. Justin's adventures have taken him to many far-off places with Wim as his guide, where he tested his limits and pushed past boundaries.

Tune in to hear...

Join us for another inspiring episode as we sit down with Giovanni Rocco, the Press Secretary for the United States Department of the Interior. Gio, as his friends call him, was born in Chile and immigrated to the United States at the age of nine. His impressive political career has led him to a pivotal role where he communicates on crucial issues such as climate change, clean energy, and the conservation of America's lands and waters.

Discover the insights and experiences of someone who dedicates his work to protecting our wildlife and natural resources at the highest...

Join us for an inspiring episode as we sit down with Jim Keyes, a true modern-day Renaissance man. With a resume that includes leadership roles in globally renowned Fortune 500 companies, such as Blockbuster, Inc. and 7-Eleven, Inc., Jim Keyes brings a wealth of experience to the table. But his story doesn't stop there – Jim is also a philanthropist, educator, artist, musician, and even a commercial pilot.

In this episode, we delve into Jim's latest book, Education Is Freedom: The Future Is in Your Hands. With a lifelong commitment to both education and adventure, Jim shares his insights on...

In this inspiring episode, we’re joined by Paul Aubert, a self-proclaimed Frenchie from Paris, France who now resides in Las Vegas, Nevada, and is one of the founders of Noovo - a company that specializes in building high-end custom vans for van lifers.

Paul and his dedicated team of entrepreneurs have created a thriving business and it all started through a spirit of adventure and the bringing to life of Natasha, their legendary hotel bus that has traversed 16 countries, carrying 60 eager adventurers, covering 26,000 miles across the Americas.

Embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery with Tom Turcich, who set out on a quest for meaning by walking around the world. In 2022, Tom achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the 10th person on record to complete this epic journey. Spanning 38 countries over the course of 7 years and covering a staggering 28,000 miles, his adventure is nothing short of extraordinary.

What makes it even more incredible is that Tom was accompanied by his loyal companion, Savannah, the first dog to ever walk around the world. Join us for a captivating conversation as we delve into the inspiring tale...

On this special Earth Day episode, we’re joined by Mike Silvestrini, Partner and Co-Founder of Energea - a company that makes investing in renewable energy accessible for everyone. Mike’s love for adventure has taken him all over the world including time spent with the Peace Corps. Through these experiences, Mike began to develop passion and skills within renewable energy initiatives to become a protector of the planet including the Big Life Foundation which protects over 1.6 million acres of wilderness in East Africa.

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Frank Wiseman, an acclaimed salesperson, lifestyle coach, and health advocate. In this captivating conversation, Frank takes us on a transformative journey of physical healing, recounting his remarkable experience scaling a mountain on a distant continent armed only with shorts and guided by the legendary Wim Hof. Get ready to be motivated and uplifted as Frank shares insights on resilience, holistic wellness, and the power of embracing challenges head-on.

In this captivating episode, we are honored to welcome back two remarkable individuals, Karen Darke and Dr. Jeffrey Gladden, as they unite to embark on an extraordinary journey. Karen, a Paralympic gold medalist and intrepid adventurer, defies limitations with her awe-inspiring exploits across seven continents, despite being paralyzed from the chest down. Joining her is Dr. Gladden, a distinguished interventional cardiologist, founder of Gladden Longevity, esteemed host of the Gladden Longevity Podcast, and author of the groundbreaking book "100 is the New 30." Together, they ignite inspiration and resilience, offering a profound glimpse into the power of the human spirit.

In this episode, we're accompanied by "Outback" Mike Atkinson, who recounts his two-month survival journey aboard a dugout canoe along the Great Barrier Reef. Mike, known for his recent participation in the survival reality show Alone Australia, boasts a diverse background as an adventure filmmaker, former military pilot, and the author of the newly released book, Modern Day Castaway.

In this episode, we're joined by Sarah Goldman to talk about the sport of Adventure Racing, which is highlighted in the new movie, Arthur the King starring Mark Wahlberg. Sarah is the Community Programs Director for the North Carolina Outward Bound School, who has proudly served as a firefighter, police officer, and adventure racing participant and coach.

The Adventure Racing World Championship takes teams on a journey in exotic locations through over 700 km of trekking, running, mountain biking, kayaking, rope work, and navigation.

In this episode, we're joined by the adventurous Moondog Roop, who unveils his fascinating journey and introduces us to the exhilarating world of thru-skating. Offering a fresh perspective on long-distance adventuring, Moondog recounts his experiences traversing the 800-mile Florida trail and numerous other epic trails. Get ready to be inspired by his remarkable tales and his innovative approach to exploration!

In this episode, Lucy Barnard, an Aussie in pursuit of becoming the first woman to walk the length of the Earth, joins us to share her story of the active 30,000 km trek from the southernmost point of South America to the highest point of Alaska with her companion, Wombat, an Australian Cattle Dog.

In this episode, Jillian Morris, the founder and president of Sharks4Kids - an educational organization that brings together scientists, educators, conservationists, and professional videographers to help create and inspire a new generation of shark advocates, joins us to share her story of studying the ocean and her respect for the marine animals to which she has dedicated her life.

In this episode, Angela Maxwell, an author, solo adventurer, and inspirational speaker, joins us to share her story of walking across 4 continents, 14 countries, a handful of islands, and over 20,000 miles over 6.5 years. She shares her stories of tragedy and triumph, of courage and calamity, as well as those of humor, heart, and humanity.

In this episode, Ryan Prentiss, an arborist, coffee enthusiast, bike fanatic, and constant student of life, joins us to share the story of his bike tour from San Francisco, California to Peru and how he learned to adapt to the unexpected. Ryan is living the adventure life with a passion for experiencing adventure himself and as an outdoor guide and educator for others.

In this episode, Philip Lhamsuren, a passionate adventurer, writer, and father who has been roaming the ‘abandoned roads’ of the world since 1997, joins us to share his story and adventures exploring Amazonia. He is joined by Marina Danailova who joined him on a recent trip in the jungle.

In this episode, Shelby Stanger, creator and host of the podcast, Wild Ideas Worth Living, an REI Co-Op Studios production and author of, Will to Wild, joins us to share her story and talk about soul seeking, second chances, and success that we can find through a little adventure as life’s antidote.

In this episode, Clint Bertucci, the founder of Travr - a travel company that brings together incredible destinations, bucket list experiences, and like-minded travelers, joins us to share his story and how we can seize the opportunities inside each moment.

In this episode, Michele Tyburski, the creator of Hiking After 50 - a social media brand that reminds us that it’s never too late to become active and enjoy the outdoors, joins us to share her story of finding hiking as a release and a trigger for transformation while overcoming her fear of heights.

In this episode, we’re joined by Justin Fornal, an international explorer, cultural detective, filmmaker, award-winning writer, and the host of Unexplained and Unexplored on the Discovery and Science Channel. Listen in as he shares the incredible story of completing the first long-distance swim of the Nares Strait in history.

In this episode, Adam El Azab, an award-winning photographer and the Founder of How2Egypt - a Travel Buddy business that lets you experience Egypt as a friend, joins us to share his story and all of the amazing things Egypt has to offer.

In this episode, Taylor Grist joins us a second time to share his story of committing to what he started and summiting Mount Everest. His first attempt was cut short due to his Sherpa team coming down with Covid days before he was set to summit.

In this episode, Hannah and Mark Ollenburger, Creators of Bears Den Essentials - a knitwear label for those who love being outside where the wild things are, join us to share their story of leaving city life to answer a call to nature and more fully experience their love for the wild, wildlife, and each other in Montana.

In this episode, Alfredo Aliaga, his daughter Anabel Aliaga-Buchenau, and Julian Coiner, who just returned from a quest to set a new World record that would make Alfredo, at age 92, the oldest person to hike the Grand Canyon from rim to rim, join us to share their story about their hike that covered 24 miles in 21 hours.

In this episode, Amit Negi, a Mountaineer and high-performing Professional Athlete who grew up in the mountains of India, joins us to share his story of summitting some of the highest and most dangerous mountain peaks in the World including three over 8,000 meters (26,000 feet): Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Mount Annapurna. Krishna Kumar joins us as Co-Host and Translator.

In this episode, Kit Parks, Entrepreneur and Host of the Active Travel Adventures Podcast who has traveled to almost 50 countries and all 7 continents, joins us to share her story and the magic of adventure travel.

In this episode, Jermaine Andre, Martial Arts Hall of Fame Inductee, 2x World Champion, UFC Vet, 5x US Champion, Author, Teacher, Mentor and a Pioneer in MMA, joins us to share his story of overcoming challenges and confronting fear.

In this episode, Brad Israel, a True Hero on his own Hero’s Journey with 14 years of dedicated military service who has deployed all over the world as an Airborne Ranger & Green Beret, joins us to share his story of recognizing abundance and using it to serve others. Brad is a TEDx speaker and serves as the President and Founder of Warrior 360 - a leadership development company focused on coaching and consulting with businesses and teams.

In this episode, Wil Lavender, a former Senior Finance Manager who just completed a coast-to-coast 4,200-mile cycling adventure from the Pacific Ocean in Washington State to the Atlantic Ocean in New York, joins us to share his story of this two-and-a-half-month journey and how it changed him forever.

In this episode, Marty Ohlhaut and Grace Ly, a Father-Daughter Team and Authors of the new book Tent for Seven, join us to share their story of a trip out West gone sideways. Marty worked in the business world for 40 years and has traveled to all 50 states and 44 countries. Grace has worked for the American Red Cross, the White House, and the CIA. She has hiked mountains in North Korea, slept under the stars in the Sahara Desert, and ran with the bulls in Spain during her time traveling through 30 countries.

In this episode, Randi Beard, a Realtor from Asheville, NC with a lifetime full of adventure and travel all over the world from backpacking trips to South America, Nepal, and India, joins us to share her story and how she allows herself to be guided by life.

In this episode, Elliott Costlow, an Everyday Adventurer, Backpacker, and Storyteller who is a frequent solo traveler with the exception of trips with his dog Bailey, joins us to share his story of climbing the highest peak in the Northeastern US, Mount Washington not once, but twice.

In this episode, Michele Spiezia, aka the General Manager of the Universe representing her family and Ellysium Racing - their race team with an inspired goal to pave the way for themselves and others on a newly forming international stage in electric motorsport, joins us to share their story of risking it all to follow their teenage son Ellis's passion for racing, leaving everything behind in the US and heading to Europe.

In this episode, Jeremy Early, a Craftsman, Philanthropist, Adventure Guide, Trailblazer, and Owner of Jeremy Early Trailworks - a company that creates hand-built, low-impact trails for residential communities throughout the Southeast, joins us to share his story of following the call to adventure, building pathways for others to follow, and all that can unfold along the way.

In this episode, Dineo Dowd, a Wife and Mom from Wisconsin who spends her days planning and writing about adventure to inspire other women and kids to get outside and enjoy the outdoors, joins us to share her story and how curiosity for adventure can help us breakthrough limiting circumstances that might hold us back from pursuing our dreams.

On our 100th episode, Ryan Dean, Podcast Producer of Inspire Campfire, Creator, Entrepreneur, Adventurer, and Inventor of Peace KEYper - a self-defense aid that uses your standard house key, joins us to share his story of converting a school bus into an RV that he lives and travels in full-time with his fiancé Beatriz.

In this episode, Nathan Stuart, a Baja local and Founder of Legends Overlanding - a boutique tour company that provides bucket list overlanding adventures in Baja California, joins us to share his story of how he took his passions of overlanding trucks, rugged nature, and connecting with people to create a magical service to other aspiring adventurers.

In this episode, Adam Herzog, an Elite Whitewater Kayaker and Trauma Nurse, joins us a second time to share his story of successfully achieving a lifetime goal of navigating the Mount Everest of kayaking and suffering an injury soon after by falling 45 feet from an indoor climbing wall. This is a story about learning from our mistakes and the power of resilience.

In this episode, Kevin Thueson and Nate Thompson, with KCN Campgrounds - an investment group that focuses on campgrounds and RV parks, join us to share their story of how they have combined both their passions and skills to become an important part of the outdoor industry.

In this episode, Dr. Gregory P. Smith, who holds a Ph.D. in Sociology, Author of Out of the Forest, Contributing Author to Wilder Journeys, and TED Talk Speaker, joins us to share his story of giving up on society at the age of 35 and retreating into the forest where he lived in isolation for 10 years. Close to death, he decided to emerge and give society another try.

In this episode, Sophie Hilaire, a U.S. Army Veteran and Business Consultant with an MBA from the Wharton School of Business who has summited Mount Everest, joins us to share her story of resolve and confidence and how she’s used them both to fuel the voice that calls her to adventure.

In this episode, Laurie King, an Author, Coach, Facilitator, Ph.D. Student, and Adventurer with a passion for rewilding people and the planet, joins us to share her story and how she came to collaborate with such an incredible group of people through a connection to nature.

In this episode, Scott Miller, the leader of the Mississippi Speed Record Team who has paddled over 8,000 miles in his lifetime, joins us to share his story of setting the Guinness World Record for the fastest paddle along the full length of the Mississippi River.

In this episode, Rupert Marques, with 25 years of practice of wilderness rites of passage and the insight meditation tradition, joins us to share his story and how close encounters with the land and its wild creatures can inspire a deeper connection to it.

In this episode, Jesse Velleu & Elena Miyasato, a Subaru Leave No Trace Team from the Leave No Trace organization with the mission to pioneer science and provide solutions for the protection of the natural world, joins us to share their story of teaching and living the Leave No Trace mission.

In this episode, Erin Smith, Founder, and CEO of Ocean Sole who has a mission to rid the Indian Ocean of plastic while creating both social and economic opportunity out of the collected waste, joins us to share her story and how her call to adventure came with a mission.

In this episode, Jess Edberg, The Executive Director of the Dorothy Molter Museum in Ely, Minnesota with a diverse career focusing on wildlife, joins us to share her story of trapping wolves and deer for research while providing education and information services for the International Wolf Center.

In this episode, Miriam Lancewood, an Adventurer, World Traveler, and International Best Selling Author, joins us to share her story of spending over six years in the wild in the bush of New Zealand and makes us rethink what it means to live in the real world.

In this episode, ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence chatbot developed by OpenAI, joins us with the assistance of David Wells to answer questions we’ve asked previous guests about getting outside in nature and the voice that calls to adventure.

In this episode, Patrick Belisle, a Practical Mystic, nonprofit Executive, Teacher, and World Traveler who spent a full year traveling around the world with his wife Jane as they searched for the meaning of life, joins us to share his story of a mystical experience he had in India.

In this episode, Dave and Denise Lyga, a retired Photographer and Banker, join us to share their story of recently completing The Great Loop - a circumnavigation of the eastern U.S., and part of Canada. The route includes the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, the New York State Canals, the Canadian Canals, the Great Lakes, the inland rivers, and the Gulf of Mexico.