On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self: Recent Episodes
Josh Self
A podcast of conversations with the Everyday Explorer. Why do we pursue adventure and what do we find when we push past our limits? Buckle up and enjoy the ride as we go On Adventure.
What happens when you stop running away from the pressures of life and start running toward the life you actually want?
Alex Potts grew up in Sunnyvale, California, riding BMX bikes through the apricot orchards that would eventually become the heart of Silicon Valley. Raised by a single mom who taught elementary school and worked hard to keep their family afloat, Alex learned early lessons about money, service, resilience, and taking care of other people.
Those lessons followed him into a remarkable career.
Alex spent more than three decades helping build what became Loring Ward, a firm that helped pioneer the fee-based model used by independent financial advisors today. Along the way, he discovered that the most meaningful work wasn't simply about accumulating assets. It was about helping people solve problems that actually mattered.
Then, while still in his 50s, Alex stepped away from the top job.
And that's where another chapter of his story really began.
In this episode of On Adventure, Alex and I talk about business, family, friendship, endurance, and the pull of wild places. We explore why running became an outlet during one of the most stressful periods of his life, how the John Muir Trail helped reshape his relationship with adventure, and why some of his strongest friendships have been forged while doing difficult things outdoors.
We also get into a frightening day in the Grand Canyon when Alex—despite being in some of the best shape of his life—learned just how quickly an adventure can turn dangerous.
A mile and a half from the top, in extreme heat, his body started shutting down.
What helped turn things around?
A total stranger and a bag of beef jerky.
This conversation is ultimately about much more than hiking or business. It's about service, wisdom, community, and getting busy living while you still have the opportunity.
In This Episode We talk about:
- From Silicon Valley to financial industry leadership — Alex's upbringing in Sunnyvale, the influence of his parents, and his three-decade journey helping build Loring Ward.
- Building a life around service — Why Alex believes great businesses, advisors, and leaders put helping people ahead of products, assets, or "wallet share."
- Running away vs. running toward — How running initially became an escape from the pressures of work and family before adventure evolved into something Alex intentionally pursued.
- Adventure, friendship, and community — From the John Muir Trail and Mount Whitney to the Excellent Adventure group, Alex explains why difficult experiences shared with others create unusually strong friendships.
- Knowing your limits—and having each other's backs — What a dangerous Grand Canyon rim-to-rim hike taught Alex about preparation, humility, listening to his body, and the unexpected kindness of strangers.
Episode Timestamps Episode Timestamps 00:00 – From Silicon Valley Roots to Loring Ward Alex's childhood in Sunnyvale, being raised by a single mom, and the unlikely path that led him into financial services and eventually to building Loring Ward.
08:00 – Building a Business Around Service, Not Sales Why Alex rejected the traditional asset-gathering mentality and built a culture centered on genuinely helping advisors and their clients solve meaningful problems.
18:00 – Where the Drive to Help Others Comes From Alex reflects on his mother, his father's recovery from addiction, and how both shaped his belief in service, compassion, and taking care of people.
21:00 – The Day Running Changed His Life Overwhelmed by a demanding career, young children, and little sleep, Alex started running—and discovered the value of exercise, solitude, and uninterrupted thinking.
24:00 – The John Muir Trail and Finding Sanctuary Outdoors Backpacking through Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada, encountering ancient forests, and discovering the peace and perspective that come from extended time in wild places.
31:00 – Running Away vs. Running Toward Adventure How Alex's relationship with the outdoors evolved from a coping mechanism and escape into an intentional pursuit of adventure, challenge, and joy.
33:00 – Why the Best Adventures Are Shared From Mount Whitney to the Excellent Adventure group, Alex and Josh explore friendship, companionship, and why doing hard things together creates such powerful bonds.
41:00 – Knowing When to Push—and When to Stop Why fitness isn't enough in the backcountry, how experience builds wisdom, and the importance of checking your ego when conditions or your body tell you something isn't right.
43:00 – Grand Canyon Survival, Beef Jerky & Trail Magic A rim-to-rim Grand Canyon hike in 110-degree heat goes sideways, a stranger's bag of beef jerky helps Alex recover, and the experience becomes a powerful lesson in humility and having each other's backs.
A Few Takeaways Adventure can change from escape to pursuit. At one point, running and the outdoors gave Alex a way to cope with stress. Eventually, something shifted. Instead of running away from something, he began running toward experiences he genuinely wanted.
Fitness and wisdom aren't the same thing. Being capable of pushing harder doesn't always mean you should. Experience teaches us to recognize the signals our bodies—and sometimes our lives—are sending.
The best adventures are often about the people beside you. The summit matters. The trail matters. But years later, it's often the people who struggled, laughed, helped, and celebrated alongside us that we remember most.
Service is a way of being. Whether you're helping a client navigate a family crisis, staying at the back of a hiking group to make sure everyone gets home, or opening a door for someone at the grocery store, the principle is the same: I've got your back.
Resources & References Mentioned * John Muir Trail — The roughly 200+ mile Sierra Nevada trail Alex has backpacked in sections * Yosemite National Park — One of Alex's favorite places on the planet * Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) — Alex discusses encountering thru-hikers while on the JMT * Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park — Near Alex's home in the Santa Cruz Mountains and home to magnificent old-growth redwoods * Undaunted Courage by Stephen E. Ambrose — Alex's recommended account of the Lewis and Clark expedition * Arthur Brooks — Referenced during the discussion of "deal friends" versus "real friends" * Dimensional Fund Advisors — An important part of Alex's professional story and later his son's career
Final Thought One of the most memorable ideas in this conversation is also one of the simplest.
When you're on a trail and someone is struggling, you help.
You don't ask whether they're part of your group. You don't calculate what's in it for you. You recognize that today it's them—and tomorrow it could be you.
Alex has carried that philosophy from his childhood into business, from business onto the trail, and from the trail back into everyday life.
Maybe that's part of what adventure is here to teach us.
Take care of the people around you. Know when to push and when to turn around. Find places where the voices go quiet. And don't spend your whole life running away from something.
Find something worth running toward.
Keep the Adventure Going If this conversation resonated with you, share it with someone you'd want beside you on the trail.
Subscribe to On Adventure wherever you listen to podcasts, and check out The Money Trail Guide for practical ideas to help you plan for adventure, minimize "trail waste" along the way, and use your resources to move toward the life that matters most to you.
Because someday isn't the goal.
The adventure is happening now.
What happens when you build your work around the life you want to live?
In this episode of On Adventure, Josh talks with Stefan Gruber, a climber, photographer, traveler, and customer success professional at Levitate. Stefan shares how remote work and his wife Sarah's career as a travel nurse have helped them create a life centered on movement, creativity, and outdoor adventure.
They discuss climbing, film photography, international travel, dangerous moments in the mountains, and the judgment required to turn around when conditions are not right. At the heart of the conversation is a simple message: meaningful experiences should not always be postponed.
In This Episode * Building a mobile life around remote work and travel nursing * Why climbing creates focus, presence, and flow * Traveling through the American West, Poland, and Nepal * The appeal of film photography and printed images * Balancing documentation with being present * Avalanche terrain, exposed climbing, and failed summit attempts * Summit fever, risk assessment, and the limits of luck * Future goals, including the Grand Teton and Colorado fourteeners * Why Stefan believes in doing things while you still can
Episode Chapters 00:00 – Colorado Springs and life on the move Josh and Stefan discuss Colorado Springs, choosing temporary homes, and the possibility of eventually buying land in Colorado or Montana.
11:00 – Stefan's career and lifestyle Stefan explains how he moved from a long corporate commute into remote work and began traveling with Sarah during her nursing assignments.
17:30 – Climbing, travel, and flow Stefan reflects on his Polish heritage, his early interest in travel, and the sense of complete focus he finds while climbing.
20:00 – Designing work around life The conversation explores the freedom and tradeoffs of building a career that supports travel, adventure, and flexibility.
24:00 – Poland and international travel Stefan describes Poland's cities, mountains, coastline, affordability, and cultural growth, along with other memorable travel experiences.
36:30 – Photography and creative ambitions Stefan explains how photography connects his travels and outdoor life. He also shares ideas for creating a travel channel with Sarah.
41:00 – Film, digital photography, and presence They discuss the visual character of film, the value of printed photographs, and the tension between capturing an experience and fully living it.
51:00 – Risk, fear, and turning around Stefan recounts dangerous moments involving avalanche terrain, exposed climbing, wildfire smoke, and two unsuccessful attempts on the Grand Teton.
57:00 – Summit fever and the limits of luck The conversation turns to humility, decision-making, and why surviving a poor choice does not make it a good one.
1:04:00 – Survival psychology and photography advice Stefan recommends Deep Survival by Laurence Gonzales and encourages new photographers to begin with whatever camera they can access.
1:11:00 – Favorite mountains and future goals Stefan talks about the Tetons, Annapurna Base Camp, Denali, Everest, and his goals for the rest of 2026.
1:18:00 – Do it while you can Stefan closes with his belief that health, time, and opportunity are uncertain, so meaningful goals should not always be saved for later.
Memorable Quotes "Sometimes those limits find you."
"There's a certain store of luck, and it will run out eventually."
"If it doesn't happen today, it can happen another day."
"Do it while you can."
Key Takeaways Build work around what matters. Flexible work can create more room for travel, relationships, creativity, and meaningful experiences.
Turning around is not failure. Good judgment sometimes means abandoning a climb or summit and returning under better conditions.
Luck is not a strategy. A successful outcome does not automatically mean the decision behind it was wise.
Give photographs a life beyond the screen. Printing images or shooting film can make photography feel more intentional and lasting.
Do not save everything for someday. Adventure can be a major expedition or a small personal goal. The important step is beginning while the opportunity still exists.
Resources Mentioned * Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales * Stefan's Instagram page
About Stefan Gruber Stefan Gruber is a climber, traveler, and photographer who works remotely for Levitate. He and his wife Sarah travel throughout the United States for her nursing assignments while pursuing hiking, climbing, skiing, photography, and international travel.
Keep Exploring Subscribe to On Adventure in your podcast app and on YouTube for more conversations with people building meaningful lives through exploration, challenge, and curiosity.
Share this episode with someone who has been saving an important goal for "someday."
Episode Description What happens in the dark hours before sunrise on day two, when your body starts asking what exactly you are doing out here? Justin Smith teaches high school in Santa Cruz, California, where his classroom is a working bike shop. By day he runs a Career Tech Ed program through Project Bike Tech, teaching teenagers to fix bikes, build resumes, and solve real problems with their own hands. On his own time, he is an ultra-endurance athlete who has finished the 2,700-mile Tour Divide from Banff, Canada to the Mexico border in 16 days straight, raced the Fiji Eco-Challenge with Team Curl, competed at the Ironman World Championships in Kona, and returned three times to a 60-hour swimrun across the Swedish archipelago. In this conversation, Justin takes Josh inside the pain cave and the mental game of multi-day racing: the dark hours before sunrise on day two, the difference between the front country and the back country, and why the body only truly comes alive on the second night. He explains how a psychology degree and Outward Bound canoe trips led to a life built around adventure, why he and his wife once lived in a tiny house they built on television, and how putting himself in hard situations makes him a better dad, husband, and teacher. They also talk about the people. From trail angels on the Pacific Crest Trail to a septic-truck driver in Southern California, Justin keeps returning to the connections that outlast the miles. Most of all, this is a story about a simple idea he repeats to his students and his daughter: a ship is safe in its harbor, but that is not what ships were built for, and the more you do hard things, the more you realize hard things are worth doing. Episode Highlights • 00:00 Meet Justin Smith: high school teacher by day, ultra-endurance adventurer on his own time • 02:00 The bike shop classroom and the Project Bike Tech program in Santa Cruz • 08:00 Building a tiny house on the TV show Tiny House Nation • 14:00 The permission slip to not conform, and choosing the hard path on purpose • 16:00 Comfort is what gets sold to us, but hard things are what move the needle • 19:00 Meeting Roy Malone at the 2019 Fiji Eco-Challenge with Team Curl • 20:00 The One Water swimrun across the Swedish archipelago, attempted three times • 26:00 The Stagecoach 400 and sleeping on McDonald's cardboard with no sleeping bag • 31:00 Courtney Dauwalter's pain cave, and learning to redecorate it instead of fighting it • 38:00 Finishing the 2,700-mile Tour Divide in 16 days, from Banff to the Mexico border • 43:00 The Pacific Crest Trail, meeting his wife, and hiking through grief in 2009 • 55:00 Orienteering, gut instinct, and trusting intuition when the map runs out • 01:04:00 A ship is safe in its harbor, but that is not what ships are built for • 01:12:00 The mantra: if you can't get out of it, get into it, and find a way About Justin Smith Justin Smith is a high school Career Tech Ed teacher in Santa Cruz, California, where he leads a bike shop program through Project Bike Tech, and a lifelong endurance athlete and adventurer. A former NCAA swimmer, he has finished the Tour Divide, raced the Fiji Eco-Challenge and multiple expedition-style adventure races, competed at the Ironman World Championships in Kona, and thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail. He lives in Santa Cruz with his wife and daughter, with whom he shares most of his adventures. Connect with Justin Smith • Facebook: www.facebook.com/smilingjustin • Inspire Out: www.instagram.com/inspireout/ Connect with the On Adventure Podcast Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer. • Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms • Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content • Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self • Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self • If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it.
Episode 74: Carrying a Language Home with Gil Jackson Episode Description What does it mean to be so connected to a place that even your name carries it? Gil Jackson, known by the Cherokee name Dohi, meaning outside or outdoors, was born in Robbinsville, North Carolina in 1951 and today lives on 30 acres just 200 yards from the spot where he came into the world. He is a fluent Cherokee speaker, one of roughly 130 left, an elder of the Snowbird community, and an educator who has taught at Stanford, UNC Asheville, and Duke. In 2014, he thru-hiked all 2,200 miles of the Appalachian Trail, walking in part to honor his ancestors on the Trail of Tears. In this conversation, Gil takes Josh inside a tight-knit upbringing built on Gadugi, the Cherokee construct of community, where neighbors came together to cut wood, harvest crops, and care for anyone in need. He explains why family kept him rooted in Western North Carolina even when opportunity called him elsewhere, how a community school preserved the language while the wider world pushed assimilation, and why Cherokee is considered one of the ten hardest languages in the world. They also talk about why Gil keeps walking. From a 48-mile day in the Great Smoky Mountains to the ladder-strewn West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island, his adventures are less about conquering anything and more about seeing the creator's creation. Most of all, this is a story about a race against time: preserving a language, the knowledge of medicinal plants, and the sacred sites that risk being lost before the next generation can carry them forward. Episode Highlights • 00:00 A name that means outdoors, and a home built 200 yards from where he was born • 02:00 The Cherokee tradition of burying the umbilical cord to connect a child to the land • 05:00 Why family kept him rooted in Western North Carolina despite chances to leave • 06:00 Growing up in 1950s Snowbird: one gravel road, one light bulb per room, no TV • 08:00 Gadugi explained: the community coming together to help in times of need • 13:00 An aunt's middle-class home, new clothes, and the family that raised him • 21:00 Selling moss for 25 cents a pound to buy a guitar he still owns • 22:00 A community school that taught English while protecting the Cherokee language • 24:00 Only about 130 fluent speakers left, and losing two and a half each month • 27:00 What makes Cherokee one of the ten hardest languages in the world • 29:00 Degrees in education, administration, and planning, and leading a language immersion school • 33:00 How Cherokee end-of-life traditions have changed over a lifetime • 35:00 Finding the therapeutic in streams, trees, and birdsong • 39:00 Why he thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2014 to honor the Trail of Tears • 43:00 The brutal West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island, with 100 ladders and 10 hours for six miles • 45:00 A tense night cooking near foraging bears in Virginia • 46:00 A trail family of five speaking four languages, all wanting to learn Cherokee • 53:00 Losing the knowledge of edible and medicinal plants, and the sacred sites that hold the stories • 57:00 Rapid-fire: Gvgeyu (I love you), favorite sunrises, beloved teachers, and the White Mountains About Gil Jackson Gil Jackson (Dohi) is a fluent Cherokee speaker, elder of the Snowbird community in Robbinsville, North Carolina, and a lifelong educator who has taught at Stanford, UNC Asheville, and Duke and served as principal of a Cherokee language immersion school. He remains committed to preserving the Cherokee language, traditional plant knowledge, and the region's sacred sites, and is an avid long-distance hiker who thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2014. Connect with the On Adventure Podcast Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer. • Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms • Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content • Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self • Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self • If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it
ON ADVENTURE PODCAST | EPISODE 73
Episode 73: Running is Life with Aaron Saft As a species, we only do things if there is truly a reward on the other side. So when the reward is pain, struggle, suffering, and danger, what exactly keeps driving us back out the door?
Aaron Saft has spent his life chasing that answer. A five-time ACC champion at NC State whose teams finished third at the NCAA Cross Country Championships, he traded the track for the trail, ran his first 100-miler in 2016, and has since become one of the most experienced ultrarunners in the Southeast. Today he coaches roughly 75 athletes full-time through his Running Is Life platform and podcast, a business he deliberately renamed from "MR Running Pains" because he believes running, done right, should bring as much joy as it does suffering.
His résumé reads like a bucket list for the sport: the Grand Slam of Ultrarunning, the Bigfoot 200, Hardrock, Leadville, UTMB, and the Tor des Géants in the Italian Alps, where a fall, a head injury, and a watchful medic ended his race. He has finished a 100-miler while spiking a 100-degree fever, outrun a mother grizzly and her cubs in Canada, and learned the hard way when to push and when to stop. But ask Aaron why he does it and he won't point to a trophy. He'll point to the upside-down photo of his family pinned to his quad, the one he looks down at in the darkest miles to remember who he is suffering for.
In this conversation, Josh and Aaron trace the many forms the "why" can take. They dig into presence, learning to run a hundred miles one mile at a time, and the moment an empty drop bag at Leadville taught Aaron everything he needed to know about the generosity of the trail community. They talk about the one question you never ask an ultrarunner, the evolution from chasing a place to simply chasing the finish line, why legacy is something children catch rather than something we teach, and how an abundance mindset shaped the coaching practice he built from the ground up. It is a conversation for every everyday explorer about doing the hard things that make life fuller, right now, not someday.
Episode Highlights • 06:00 The Terry Foxworth connection and the heart of On Adventure: the reward beneath the suffering
• 15:00 Running Is Life: why words matter and reframing the sport away from pain
• 19:00 From reluctant soccer goalie to cross country, and the high school coach who changed his life
• 24:00 The NC State years: five ACC titles, redshirting, and racing the steeplechase
• 28:00 Virginia, mentor Ben Thomas, the run shop, and the move into trail running
• 33:00 First 50K to first 100: the long adventure runs that planted the seed
• 37:00 What 100 and 200 miles teach you that a marathon never will: presence, mile by mile
• 38:00 Finishing the Grand Slam and the Wasatch 100 with a 100-degree fever
• 44:00 When to keep going and when to stop: the Tor des Géants head injury and a fevered DNF on Mount Mitchell
• 52:00 Intrinsic motivation, the family photo on the quad, and the "debt" a race director taught him about
• 55:00 The empty drop bag at Leadville and the generosity of the trail community
• 59:00 "What do you need?" The only question you ask an ultrarunner
• 01:01:00 Adventure versus performance, "level 49," and racing for the finish line instead of the place
• 01:08:00 Legacy as something caught, not taught, and raising two runners of his own
• 01:13:00 From brick-and-mortar to online coaching: 75 athletes, an abundance mindset, and a teaching heart
• 01:25:00 Rapid fire: the grizzly bear, the Altra Lone Peak 9+, best and worst races, and five 100-milers in one summer
Resources and Mentions from This Episode
Here are the people, places, and resources Aaron mentioned in this episode:
• Running Is Life, Aaron's coaching practice and podcast
• Training for the Uphill Athlete, the team's recent book study and a foundational training manual
• Races referenced: Grindstone 100, Mountain Masochist 50, Hellgate 100K, Western States, Leadville 100, Wasatch 100, Hardrock 100, UTMB, the Bigfoot 200, the Tor des Géants, the Cocodona 250, and the Ouray 100
• Gear note: the Altra Lone Peak 9+ with the Vibram outsole
Free for Listeners: The Money Trail Guide
Josh's free resource for everyday explorers is packed with practical insights on planning for any adventure, big or small, minimizing trail waste along the way (yes, that means taxes), and living with confidence toward whatever is most meaningful to you. It also includes key takeaways from recent On Adventure guests to help inspire your next steps.
Grab your copy at ridgelinewealthadvisors.com.
Connect with the On Adventure Podcast
Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer.
• Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms
• Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content
• Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self
• Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self
• If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it
ON ADVENTURE PODCAST | EPISODE 72
Episode 72: Risk in Every Form with Greg Winchester Episode Description What does it take to keep saying yes to risk, in the boardroom, on the trail, and across all seven continents, for forty years and counting?
Greg Winchester calls himself an armchair explorer, but the title sells him short. Over a 40-plus-year career in commercial real estate, he has worked through the savings and loan crisis, the 2008 financial crisis, and COVID, first as a banker, then as a co-owner, and today as an investor through his family office, Summit Investors. In 2003, he and two partners bought their company from its founders in a management buyout, personally guaranteeing the entire debt with 300 employees and no safety net. As Greg puts it, it was like walking to the end of the diving board and jumping, hoping there was water below.
A lifelong Boy Scout who fell in love with the outdoors in the Roan Highlands of North Carolina, Greg went on to serve on the board of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and to build a life of generosity that reaches all seven continents, inspired by the book Seven Summits. From an orphanage in Bolivia to a pastors' training center in Uganda, a nearly thousand-year-old cathedral in Winchester, England, and Sir Ernest Shackleton's grave on South Georgia Island near Antarctica, he and his wife set out to support smaller, lesser-known nonprofits and build real relationships, not just write checks.
In this conversation, Josh and Greg trace the many forms risk can take. They dig into why leverage is a two-edged sword, how diversification and dry powder let you run into the fire when others are running out, why your gut becomes a kind of superpower after twenty years in any arena, and how setting goals every year since his twenties shaped a life of purpose. Greg also shares the two questions a pair of mentors asked him in his mid-fifties, what is a noble cause you can get involved with, and what do you actually want to do, and why finishing well may be the greatest adventure of all.
Episode Highlights 00:00 An armchair explorer who spent forty years navigating real estate's biggest crises
03:00 Stumbling into commercial real estate from a bank management trainee program
06:00 The 2003 management buyout: 300 employees and everything personally guaranteed
12:00 Jumping off the high dive and hoping there is water below
14:00 A lucky break, a termination fee, and the real mix of hard work and luck
17:00 Three things that get people in trouble: cycles, capital structure, and diversification
20:00 Running into the fire in 2008 and why leverage is a two-edged sword
23:00 The gut instinct you earn after twenty years in any arena
25:00 Seven Summits and a vision to serve nonprofits on all seven continents
29:00 Winchester Cathedral, a 950-year-old Bible, and Shackleton's grave near Antarctica
38:00 What rises to the top: relationships, faith, family, and friends
40:00 A Boy Scout in the Roan Highlands and a lifelong love of the trail
46:00 Moving toward something, not away, and setting goals every year since his twenties
50:00 Finishing well and the two questions that reshaped Greg's second act
Causes and Organizations Greg Supports Here are the people and organizations Greg mentioned in this episode:
• Summit Investors, his family office investing in real estate across the Sun Belt
• Auburn University Master of Real Estate Development program, where he serves as an adjunct and industry connector
• The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, where he served on the board
• The South Georgia Heritage Trust, stewards of the historic church and museum on South Georgia Island
• The National Christian Foundation, which helped guide his international giving
Free for Listeners: The Money Trail Guide Josh's free resource for everyday explorers is packed with practical insights on planning for any adventure, big or small, minimizing trail waste along the way (yes, that means taxes), and living with confidence toward whatever is most meaningful to you. It also includes key takeaways from recent On Adventure guests to help inspire your next steps.
Grab your copy at ridgelinewealthadvisors.com.
Connect with the On Adventure Podcast Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer.
• Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms
• Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content
• Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self
• Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self
• If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it
ON ADVENTURE PODCAST | EPISODE 71
Episode 71: Solo Female Travel, Real Risk, and the Belonging We All Crave with Amanda Black
Episode Description
What does it actually take to step on a plane alone, head somewhere most people would call risky, and come home a different woman?
Amanda Black is the founder of the Solo Female Traveler Network, a community of more than half a million women that started as a small Facebook group during her expat years in Australia. Ten years and roughly thirty tours a year later, she leads women into places the average traveler tends to avoid: Egypt, Morocco, India, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and beyond. Bali was the first trip. Seventeen women signed up. Nine of them ended up with the company logo tattooed by the end of it.
We talk about why she leans into destinations perceived as less safe, what real risk actually looks like versus the version we imagine, and why she pushes back on the idea that travel is simply safe or unsafe. Risk, she argues, is a spectrum and a muscle, and most women have a lot more capacity to build it than they have been told.
We also get into the quieter side of all this. The cobblestone cafe in Sighișoara, Romania, where women who had known each other only a few days started telling the truth about how lonely life back home really feels. The Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia, where she felt like she had walked into a movie set with no electricity. The unexpected pattern she keeps noticing across every trip, every country, every group: people are not really upset about the hotel room. They want to belong.
Amanda also shares why she launched Kindred Community, a smaller, slower offering built around connection retreats in Southern California, and what almost a decade of leading women into the wild has taught her about courage, capability, and the kind of friendships that get a logo tattooed on someone's wrist.
Episode Highlights
00:00 Welcoming Amanda Black, founder of the Solo Female Traveler Network
01:00 Building a community of 500,000+ women and running tours in 25 countries
03:00 Why she leans into destinations perceived as less safe: Egypt, Morocco, India, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan
05:00 How strangers become a travel family inside the first 48 hours of a trip
08:00 From a Facebook group in Australia to a first Bali trip where 9 of 17 women got the company logo tattooed
12:00 Talking honestly with women about safety, fear, and the gray areas of real risk
15:00 Risk on a spectrum: why "safe or unsafe" is the wrong question, and how to build the muscle over time
17:00 Mongolia and the Golden Eagle Festival: stepping into a place that felt like going back in time
20:00 What solo travel reveals about how strong and capable women really are
22:00 The hidden business lesson behind a decade of tours: everybody just wants to belong
24:00 A cobblestone cafe in Sighișoara, Romania, and the loneliness that surfaces when women finally feel safe to share
27:00 Kindred Community and the next chapter: building belonging closer to home
Connect with Amanda Black
Bonus for Listeners (Free Travel Quiz):
https://thesolofemaletravelernetwork.com/where-should-i-travel-next-quiz/
The Solo Female Traveler Network
Website: thesolofemaletravelernetwork.com
Instagram: @solofemaletravel
TikTok: @sofetravel
YouTube: @sofetravel
Amanda's TEDx Talk
Shared Firsts: Redesigning how we find belonging
youtube.com/watch?v=xSaVJH2b5H0
Amanda's Website
meetamandablack.com
Kindred Community
Website: kindredcommunity.co
Instagram: @kindred.sd
Connect with the On Adventure Podcast
Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer.
Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms
Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content
Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self
Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self
If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it.
ON ADVENTURE PODCAST | EPISODE 70
Episode 70: Saying Yes to the Right Invitations with Colin Stroud Episode Description What if your next great adventure is not a destination at all, but a willingness to say yes to the breadcrumbs life keeps dropping in front of you?
Colin Stroud is a 26-year-old credit card rewards consultant, founder of Go Somewhere, and one of the fastest growing voices on LinkedIn in the points and miles space. He grew up in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the son of an OB/GYN and a nurse midwife who met delivering a baby together, and he was on track for a more traditional path until a six-week Spanish immersion trip to Oviedo at 16 cracked the world wide open. From there it was Italy on a $380 flight, a Catholic mission to Poland, an unlikely run at Ave Maria University in south Florida, an early marriage and a baby on the way before he had even graduated, and a first job in life insurance case design that he knew almost immediately was not it.
What followed is a story about paying attention. A coworker mentioned the Chase Trifecta. A LinkedIn post about points went viral and got picked up by The Washington Post. A side hustle turned into consulting calls, then into a community for business owners, then into a full-time business helping families and entrepreneurs unlock travel they thought they could not afford.
We talk about why early travel rewires you, what it actually takes to leave a steady paycheck, the difference between dopamine and meaning, why family life and entrepreneurship feel like the truest adventures of his life right now, and the surprising decision he and his wife made after almost moving to Hawaii. Colin makes a strong case that the go somewhere life is not always about getting on a plane, and that learning to be rooted where your feet are can be its own kind of expedition.
Episode Highlights 00:00 From cheap flights as a teenager to a full-time business helping people unlock travel
06:00 World Youth Day in Poland, six weeks of Spanish immersion in Oviedo, and catching the travel bug
14:00 Marriage, a baby on the way, and a first job in life insurance that did not fit
18:00 Discovering the Chase Trifecta and stepping into the points world
23:00 The first viral LinkedIn post and a Washington Post quote that changed everything
25:00 Quitting in November 2024 and going full-time on Go Somewhere
30:00 Almost moving to Hawaii, pumping the brakes, and rethinking what travel does for young kids
34:00 Why family life and entrepreneurship are the truest adventures of his life right now
39:00 Measuring yourself: finally finding feedback after years of feeling stuck
47:00 The two ingredients behind a viable internet business: clear writing and consistent humility
55:00 What adventure means now and where to find Colin online
Connect with Colin Stroud LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colinstroud
Website: gosomewhere.world
Newsletter: The Go Somewhere Newsletter at gosomewhere.world
Email: colin@gosomewhere.world
Connect with the On Adventure Podcast Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer.
Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms
Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content
Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self
Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self
Subscribe to the Patreon for more content!
If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it
ON ADVENTURE PODCAST | EPISODE 69
Episode 69: No One Was Waiting at the Finish Line with Madison Blagden Episode Description What would it take to walk 10,000 miles in a single calendar year? Not across a lifetime. Not spread over a decade. One year.
Madison Blagden is a long-distance hiker and content creator from Massachusetts who went from a pre-med student with zero backpacking experience to one of the most prolific endurance hikers in the country. After completing the full PCT (2022), the Eastern Continental Trail from Key West to Newfoundland (2023), and the Continental Divide Trail (2024), she did all three Triple Crown trails back to back in 2025, border to border, logging over 10,000 miles in a single calendar year. She documented every step herself through daily YouTube videos, Instagram shorts, and blog posts, all edited on the road.
Starting in the Florida Keys in January, she pushed through Hurricane Helene damage on the AT, Sierra snowpack, desert heat, a debilitating hip injury in the White Mountains, and a flash flood that hit her tent in the middle of the night in the desert. The miles are extraordinary. But this conversation goes deeper than the miles.
We talk about what happens between the ears when the body wants to quit, the difference between healthy internal ambition and ego-driven achievement, how the most meaningful finish lines are the ones where nobody is waiting for you, what a flash flood teaches you about calm under pressure, the spiritual dimension of pushing past absolute exhaustion, and why you will never be 100 percent ready, and that is not a reason to wait.
Episode Highlights • 00:00 Introduction: Walking 10,000 miles in one calendar year
• 02:00 Madison's background: pre-med to PCT with no backpacking experience
• 04:00 Van life, COVID, and two years of traveling in a 19-foot RV
• 09:00 Comparing the AT, PCT, and CDT: terrain, culture, and difficulty
• 14:00 Hurricane Helene's impact on the Appalachian Trail and trail recovery
• 19:00 Planning a 10,000-mile year: budget, timing, and keeping it flexible
• 24:00 How a 5,600-mile year sparked the idea to go even further
• 31:00 Funding the hike through daily content creation on the road
• 34:00 Healthy ambition vs. ego-driven achievement
• 39:00 Internal motivation: the David Goggins voice and the gentle encouragement
• 42:00 37 miles a day for nine weeks: the math behind finishing the CDT before snow
• 48:00 Hip injury in the White Mountains and the lesson in letting go
• 51:00 Flash flood survival and what it reveals about fight-or-flight
• 57:00 Nervous system training and calm under pressure
• 01:02:00 Surrendering control: giving it up to the trail and the universe
• 01:05:00 Spiritual experiences that emerge only at the edge of physical exhaustion
• 01:10:00 Coming off trail softer: how big accomplishments quiet the ego
• 01:15:00 Closing encouragement: you will never be 100 percent ready, so go
• 01:20:00 The expanding ceiling of human limits and what comes next for Madison
Connect with Madison Blagden Instagram & YouTube: @madisonblagden
Website: madisonblagden.com
Substack: substack.com/@madisonblagden
The Trek: thetrek.co/author/madison-blagden
Connect with the On Adventure Podcast Hosted by Josh Self, financial advisor and everyday explorer.
• Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major streaming platforms
• Follow on Instagram for short-form clips and behind-the-scenes content
• Connect on Facebook: On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self
• Connect on LinkedIn: Josh Self
• If this episode resonated with you, leave a review and share it with someone who needs to hear it
Season 4 kicks off with a return visit from Robbie Lenfestey, who you may remember from episode 21. Robbie lives on Mandala Springs, a 67-acre retreat center in the mountains outside Asheville, North Carolina, and he was right in the middle of Hurricane Helene. What followed was months of disaster relief, community leadership, and eventually a very long-overdue exhale. In this conversation we get into what it actually looks like to be the calm person in a room full of panic, how a lifetime of pushing physical and mental limits builds a nervous system that can handle almost anything, and what Robbie means when he talks about the real frontier of human experience. We also talk breathwork, Internal Family Systems, flow state, a cryptid spotted multiple times on his property, and a Costa Rica trip that simply could not have been planned. This one goes deep.
Episode Timeline
- [2:43] Hurricane Helene hits Mandala Springs and what the property looked like after
- [5:00] The Cherokee sweat lodge log jam that accidentally redirected the flood and saved the structures
- [10:03] On a tractor all night while landslides crashed down the mountain
- [13:41] Taking charge the morning after and what it means to be the regulated nervous system in the room
- [24:09] What flow state actually is and how a lifetime of edge experiences builds access to it
- [27:29] Internal Family Systems - separating from an emotion long enough to actually work through it
- [35:56] Breathwork, the Wim Hof Method, and the ancient Tibetan roots behind it
- [41:22] Six months of nonstop disaster relief and the bonfire moment when the grief finally released
- [47:17] What higher power means to Robbie and why embodied spirituality matters more than head knowledge
- [54:55] The Wampus cat at Mandala Springs, seen by multiple witnesses
Links and Resources
- Convergence Lifestyle - Robbie's YouTube channel with breathwork videos and Wim Hof Method content
- Mandala Springs - mandalaSprings.com
- Mandala Naturals - mandalanaturals.com
- RobLenfestey.com - one-on-one lifestyle mentorship
- Amorphos Music - Robbie's music page
- On Adventure Episode 21 - Robbie's first appearance on the show
- @RobLenfestey - Robbie's personal Instagram page
- Robbie Lenfestey - Robbie's personal Facebook page
If you enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate it if you'd rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. And don't forget to subscribe to our social channels, including our YouTube channel and our Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn pages. It's one of the best ways to support the show and stay connected. Until next time, stay safe and stay On Adventure.
In this final installment of our series on spirituality and adventure, I sit down with Bishop Mark Beckman, the 4th Bishop of the Diocese of Knoxville, to explore what happens when faith is formed not just in quiet rooms, but in wild places. From hiking solo through old-growth forests to walking hundreds of miles on pilgrimage, Bishop Beckman shares how discomfort, silence, and physical effort can open us to something deeper than words.
We talk about the moments that push us to the edge of our capacity—storms in the backcountry, long days of walking, fear at high elevations—and how those experiences can shape trust, humility, and presence. This conversation is a reminder that adventure doesn't only take us outward into the world, but inward toward meaning, mystery, and a deeper awareness of God.
Episode Timeline * [2:22] – Bishop Mark Beckman's calling to ministry and how the outdoors shaped his faith from an early age * [6:45] – Discovering God's presence through solitude, silence, and hiking alone in the woods * [10:48] – Forming a men's backpacking group and finding unexpected community on the trail * [16:05] – Walking the Camino de Santiago and learning trust one step at a time * [22:40] – Pushing through fear and physical limits on a 14,000-foot peak in Colorado * [30:12] – Retreat, silence, and wilderness as pathways to deeper spiritual awareness * [38:05] – Suffering, endurance, and how hardship can deepen us instead of hardening us
Links & Resources * Appalachian Trail * Denali National Park * Camino de Santiago
If you enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate it if you'd rate, review, follow, and share the podcast. And don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for full episodes and additional content — it's one of the best ways to support the show and stay connected. Until next time, stay safe and stay on adventure.
In today's episode, I sit down with Dr. Hilal Kanaan - neurosurgeon, son of Palestinian immigrants, and someone whose daily work places him in the quiet but profound landscapes of human suffering, endurance, and compassion. While he isn't chasing adventure in the traditional sense, Hilal spends his days navigating a different kind of wilderness: the emotional and spiritual terrain of walking with people through their hardest moments.
We explore the kind of toughness that's forged not on trails or mountaintops, but in operating rooms, hospital corridors, and the inner worlds shaped by personal history, faith, and humility. Hilal shares what it was like growing up between cultures, how his parents' story of resilience shaped him, and what strength has come to mean inside a profession where asking for help can be the bravest move of all. This conversation broadened my understanding of what "adventure" can truly mean - and I think it'll do the same for you.
⏱️ Episode Timeline Highlights [00:00] Opening the conversation with Dr. Kanaan and framing a different kind of adventure. [02:00] Growing up in Kalamazoo as the son of Palestinian immigrants. [04:00] The mix of chaos, tragedy, resilience, and optimism woven into Palestinian identity. [07:00] Balancing two cultures and the intentional ways his parents raised their family in America. [11:00] The parental tension between comfort and necessary challenge. [15:00] Identifying "the ghosts in the nursery" - what we inherit, keep, and let go of. [17:00] The book Hilal created for his kids to help them understand God, compassion, and curiosity. [24:00] Faith as a language for gratitude rather than certainty. [29:00] What it feels like to accompany patients through their darkest moments - and how their faith shapes him. [35:00] The humbling lesson of asking for help when a case goes sideways. [44:00] Hilal's message to anyone facing hardship: your feelings are valid…and this is not the rest of your life.
🔗 Links & Resources * Why Bad Things Happen to Good People by Harold Kushner (book referenced) * Interview referenced between Stephen Colbert & Ricky Gervais
🙏 Closing Thoughts If this episode resonated with you, it would mean so much if you'd rate, follow, and review the podcast — it truly helps others discover these conversations.
And don't forget: we're building more content on YouTube, including full episodes, clips, and behind-the-scenes insights. 👉 Find and subscribe to our YouTube channel to stay connected.
Until next time — stay safe, and stay On Adventure.
David Brooks describes life as a journey up two mountains. The first mountain is about achievement—building a career, proving yourself, chasing success. The second mountain begins when the first no longer satisfies, and you're called into a deeper life of meaning, surrender, and service. This episode lives squarely on that second mountain.
This conversation is the second installment in our series exploring where spirituality and adventure overlap, and it's an honest look at what happens when ambition gives way to awakening. I sat down with Scott Sauls to talk about burnout, identity, and the courage it takes to walk away from what once defined you. We explore why suffering often becomes the doorway to spiritual depth, how achievement can quietly turn into addiction, and why community—not independence—is the missing ingredient in most meaningful adventures.
If you've ever felt successful on paper but empty underneath—or sensed a pull toward something more without knowing how to answer it—this conversation will meet you right where you are.
Timeline Highlights * [2:45] – Why this conversation fits into the spirituality-and-adventure series * [7:30] – Scott's leadership journey and the hidden cost of achievement * [14:10] – When productivity becomes identity—and why it eventually breaks us * [22:40] – Why suffering often precedes clarity, healing, and spiritual growth * [31:55] – Redefining adventure beyond the outdoors * [41:20] – The role of community in recovery and transformation * [52:10] – Curiosity, humility, and letting go of control
Key Themes & Topics * Midlife transition * Spirituality and adventure * Burnout, recovery, and identity * Faith, suffering, and meaning * Leadership and emotional health * Community vs isolation * Risk, uncertainty, and growth
Links & Resources * Scott Sauls – leadership coaching and writing * The Second Mountain by David Brooks * From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks
Closing If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share it with someone who might need this conversation. These stories grow through community—and I'm grateful you're part of it.
Thanks for listening. I'll see you on the adventure.
In today's episode—the first in a brand-new series exploring the deeper meaning behind our outdoor experiences—I sit down with my longtime friend, pastor, everyday explorer, and deep thinker, Reed Dunn, for one of the most meaningful conversations I've had on this podcast. This first installment leans less on adrenaline and more on the why—why we're drawn to the outdoors, why hardship shapes us, and why so many of us pursue experiences that push us into awe, wonder, and transcendence.
Reed and I dig into the spiritual side of adventure—what it means to connect with something beyond ourselves, whether you call that God or a higher power. We unpack the way wilderness confronts our limits, how beauty can shake us awake, and why disciplines of "no" might be more important today than ever. And of course, we talk about Reed's years of backpacking, his favorite place in the world, and the moments that have stayed with him long after the trip ended.
⏱️ Timeline Summary Here are the top moments from the episode:
[00:16:00] – Kicking off the conversation: why I wanted Reed on the show and how his story fits into "the meaning side" of adventure. [00:26:00] – Reed's early backpacking years—Colorado, Arkansas, the Buffalo River Trail, and how those experiences shaped him. [00:35:00] – The memory of his favorite place on earth: a glacial lake, seven waterfalls, and the power of remembering without a camera. [00:36:00] – A deep dive into spirituality: what it means to connect with transcendence, how nature becomes a pathway, and why anyone—regardless of belief—can access it. [00:46:00] – Religion vs. spirituality: Reed breaks down the difference between learning about God and meeting God—and why both matter. [01:13:00] – Exploring hardship, asceticism, and the spiritual importance of limitation. Why "telling yourself no" opens doors to meaning. [01:22:00] – The connection between ancient spiritual practices, desert monks, and modern adventurers who push themselves to the edge in search of something more.
🔗 Links & Resources * Reed's book, When You Don't Have Words: Praying the Psalms — available wherever you buy books * Reed Dunn on social media:
+ Instagram
+ LinkedIn
- Locations discussed: Colorado trail systems, Buffalo River Trail (AR), Wind River Range (WY), Appalachian Trail (ME/NH section)
- Find us on our new On Adventure Podcast YouTube channel where you can see the full interviews. Also give us a like and a review while you're at it!
🙌 Closing Remark If this conversation stirred something in you, inspired you, or made you think differently about why we chase adventure in the first place, I'd love for you to rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. It helps more everyday explorers find these stories—and it keeps great conversations like this one coming.
Thanks for listening, and keep living your adventure on purpose.
In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with ultra-endurance athlete Lisa Decker, whose story is a powerful blend of resilience, transformation, and the relentless pursuit of hard things. Lisa didn't come from a traditional running background—yet she discovered the world of ultra running through community, curiosity, and a willingness to push herself beyond her comfort zone. What followed is a decade-long journey that includes a 120-pound weight-loss transformation, countless ultras, and the life-changing experience of completing the legendary Vol State 500K across Tennessee.
We dive deep into what motivates someone to walk 314 miles in the July heat, how finding the right community can unlock new levels of confidence, and why endurance challenges often lead to profound personal growth. This episode is packed with insight about mental toughness, identity shifts, overcoming self-doubt, and discovering what you're really capable of when you take that first step—literally.
If you're searching for inspiration, endurance storytelling, personal transformation, or insights about long-distance running and mindset, this episode delivers.
⏱️ Timeline Highlights [2:15] – Lisa's early life in California, her outdoors-focused upbringing, and how nature shaped her love of adventure. [6:40] – Discovering the trail and ultra running community through Team RWB and why it instantly felt like "home." [14:30] – How she balances 10-hour pharmacy shifts with ultra training, and why walking ultras became her key to success. [17:45] – The unexpected moment on the Vol State ferry that led to forming a five-person pack and transforming the entire race experience. [23:10] – Kind strangers, roadside hospitality, skunk encounters, and what surprised her most during the 500K journey run. [28:40] – Doing ultras while overweight, finishing last, and why showing up anyway built the foundation for her transformation. [36:50] – The mental battle of "head trash," the power of community support, and why being honest about struggles matters. [49:00] – Future adventure goals, including walking the Caminos in Europe and exploring the world on foot. [58:30] – How endurance sports shifted her personal identity, career goals, and even her vision for where she wants to live next.
🔗 Links & Resources Featured Organizations & Topics * Team RWB (Red, White & Blue) – Veterans & civilians building connection through fitness * Vol State 500K Ultra Race Info – Search "Vol State 500K" on UltraSignup * Snowdrop Foundation – Pediatric cancer support & scholarships
💬 Final Thoughts If this conversation inspired you or helped you rethink what's possible for your own life, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Every bit of support helps new listeners discover these stories—and it keeps the adventure going.
And don't forget:
👉 Subscribe on YouTube for full video episodes
What happens when you stop waiting for permission and start chasing wild, audacious goals? That's exactly what we unpack in this powerhouse episode with Mike Wardian—elite endurance athlete, record-setting runner, and all-around inspiration. From running across the United States to setting a fastest known time (FKT) on the Appalachian Trail for his age group, Mike shares the mindset behind tackling the unimaginable.
But this conversation goes beyond races and records. Mike opens up about what fuels his drive, how he builds resilience through repetition, and how he balances his career, family, and love for adventure. Whether you're prepping for your first 10K or dreaming of rowing solo across the Atlantic (yep, that's on his calendar too), there's something here for everyone chasing big goals.
🔥 What You'll Learn * How Mike plans his insane endurance calendar using a Post-it Note system * The real story behind his Appalachian Trail record attempt — injuries, storms, and mental toughness * Why he's trading trails for water in 2027: rowing across the Atlantic solo * How to push through when motivation runs dry — the power of micro-goals * Mike's approach to family, business, and adventure life balance * What he's learned about humanity and resilience from running thousands of miles
🏆 Featured Moments [1:04] – Mike's "goal list" strategy for setting and sticking to ambitious challenges [4:58] – What is the Taco Bell 50K and the Full Ham Triathlon? (Hint: They're tougher than they sound) [6:55] – Why Mike's next adventure is rowing solo across the Atlantic Ocean [9:02] – The difference between saying yes to challenges and actively seeking them out [15:45] – Why the Appalachian Trail holds a special place in Mike's heart [23:10] – Trail injuries, vegan nutrition, and how Mike fueled himself with 10,000 calories a day [32:45] – How Mike balances a full-time career and family life while pursuing ultra-endurance feats [39:01] – The truth about running across America—traffic, kindness, loneliness, and everything in between [45:40] – Why 100 burpees a day became a key part of Mike's training routine
🧠 Listener Takeaways * Your biggest goals are within reach if you break them into daily reps * You don't need to quit your job to live an adventurous life * Embrace the beginner's mindset — it's where the magic starts * There's no substitute for consistency and curiosity * "Run toward the thing you're afraid of — it's probably where the growth is."
📌 Links & Resources * Follow Mike Wardian on Instagram: @mikewardian * Learn more about Mike's gear and sponsors: Teva, Bakline * Check out upcoming grassroots races like the Taco Bell 50K via Mike's socials
👏 Connect with Us Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for full episodes, behind-the-scenes content, and more conversations just like this. You can find us on YouTube by searching On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self — and don't forget to hit the bell so you never miss a new drop.
If this episode inspired you, please follow, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite platform. It helps us grow and reach more everyday adventurers like you. And hey—share it with a friend who's chasing their own wild goals.
Enduring the Impossible with Vincent Antunez
This episode is a deep dive into the mind and mission of Vincent Antunez, DSc, PA-C - a retired U.S. Army Major, ultra endurance athlete, and founder of Trail Toes. From grueling military deployments to multi-day ultramarathons across the globe, Vincent shares how pain, persistence, and preparation have shaped every step of his journey.
We talk about what it takes to push beyond the limits of your body - and more importantly, your mind. Vincent shares raw, powerful stories of suffering and success on the course, the lessons that endurance sports teach about humility and resilience, and the gear and mindset strategies that keep him (and his feet) moving forward. This one is packed with wisdom from the front lines - of both battlefields and ultramarathons.
🎧 Don't forget - we're now on YouTube! Be sure to subscribe to the channel and hit that bell so you never miss an episode. And of course, follow the show wherever you get your podcasts.
⏱️ Episode Timeline: [1:12] - How Vincent met ultrarunning legend Lisa Smith-Batchen — and helped her complete her historic Badwater Quad [3:44] - A military career across decades and continents [6:57] - How a post-midnight beer run in Germany accidentally became his first marathon [11:42] - Why he keeps showing up, even without formal training [13:58] - The 3 reasons people drop out of ultras (and how to beat them) [20:31] - Innovative tips for staying cool and blister-free on brutal courses [24:49] - Trail Toes and how Vincent created it in Afghanistan [38:11] - The psychology of endurance: crews, quitting, and the right kind of pressure [52:05] - Why Vincent keeps coming back to these events — and what they continue to teach him
🔗 Links & Resources: * Trail Toes Foot & Body Care * Vol State 500K * Band of Runners – a trail running camp for veterans and first responders
If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review the podcast — and share it with a friend who's always pushing their limits. Every download helps more everyday explorers find their way forward.
How do you embrace fear and failure to build a multi million dollar business, shred heavy metal guitar solos and break land speed records in a custom built car?
In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Tom Kubiniec—entrepreneur, former heavy metal guitarist, and the so-called "gun storage guru." From his days tearing up the music scene to building a global business in military weapon storage, Tom's journey is one wild ride. We dive deep into what it means to stake a claim in life before you've "earned it," why failure should be embraced (and quickly), and how creativity fuels not just business, but bold living.
A killer insight from Tom: "You don't know where you're going to land until you jump. As you're falling, you will find a place to land. If you're not happy with that one, jump again."
We also explore his adrenaline-pumping pursuits: restoring rare cars, racing across the Utah salt flats, and finding peace in silence while bow hunting. This episode is about pushing limits, whether in the boardroom, behind a guitar, or out in the wild. If you're looking for inspiration to go all-in on your ideas or just want a reminder of how short life is, this one hits home.
Episode Highlights:
[1:12] - Tom's journey from unknown rock guitarist to global leader in military gun storage
[6:05] - The pivotal moment of "claiming" expertise before it was proven—and why it worked
[13:25] - How public speaking and guitar technique both benefit from slow, intentional practice
[17:00] - Fail fast: Why Tom says failure is not the enemy but the pathway to innovation
[25:55] - The birth of a game-changing locking system after a live simulation revealed a major flaw
[33:02] - Creating personas in business and why it's not about being fake—it's about solving problems
[39:45] - Breaking a land speed record with a 750cc custom car: the build, the danger, the payoff
[44:00] - Why silence in the woods and watching a forest wake up is Tom's ultimate reset
[54:10] - Final reflections on living fully, embracing fear, and making the most of the one life we get
Links & Resources:
- SecureIt Tactical
- Tom's YouTube Guitar Performance (Layla in DADGAD)
- Bonneville Speed Week Info
Closing Remarks: If this conversation with Tom fired you up to take bold steps in your own adventure, make sure to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. And if you enjoyed this one, rate, review, and share it with a friend who's ready to make their move.
Also, don't forget to check out the full video episode and more on our On Adventure YouTube page and hit that Subscribe button.
Thanks for tuning in!
What does greatness look like? Is it talent, time, or something deeper? In this episode, I sit down with endurance legend and master coach Lisa Smith-Batchen to explore what greatness really means - and how it evolves as we do. With over four decades of coaching and ultra-running behind her, Lisa shares a wisdom-packed perspective on pushing limits, aging with intention, and chasing big dreams, no matter where you're starting.
Lisa is the first American to win the grueling Marathon des Sables and the first woman to have completed the Badwater Quad - covering 584 miles across Death Valley! She’s run across multiple states for charity, completed a 50-mile ultra in every state, and raised over $1 million for orphanages and clean water projects. But what’s just as remarkable is how grounded, present, and purpose-driven she remains through it all.
We dig into the transformative power of endurance sports—not just physically, but mentally and spiritually. Lisa opens up about what keeps her coming back to extreme challenges, the emotional shifts that come with aging as an athlete, and how learning to put yourself first might just be the most radical move of all. Whether you're training for your first 5K or simply trying to show up fully in life, this one’s for you.
🕓 Timeline Highlights
[3:55] – Lisa's 20-year coaching journey with Bob Becker and the bond beyond the miles [6:45] – Getting cut from the team—and how it shaped her coaching philosophy [9:25] – Breaking records and barriers: Badwater Quad, 50 ultras in 50 states, and running for causes [12:15] – The path from average to good to great: Lisa’s simple but powerful growth model [17:49] – Embracing evolution: letting go of who you were to step into who you're becoming [29:01] – A moment at mile 132 that changed Bob Becker’s mindset—and maybe yours too [34:00] – Why making time for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential [41:15] – What keeps Lisa coming back to the edge of endurance: joy, clarity, and spiritual connection [57:22] – Guiding a blind and deaf athlete through 140 miles—Lisa’s next adventure
🔗 Links & Resources
- Dreamchasers Coaching – Lisa’s personalized coaching platform
- Route 6640 Ultra – The 140-mile race Lisa will be guiding in November
- Badwater 135 – The world's toughest foot race
💬 Final Words
This episode offers far more than endurance talk—it's a blueprint for living with purpose, courage, and connection. If it struck a chord with you, be sure to subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen. And don’t forget - head to our YouTube page to subscribe and watch the full conversation. We’ve got more powerful stories coming your way, so stay tuned and stay on adventure.
In this captivating episode of On Adventure, I sit down with the legendary Bob Becker - ultramarathoner, race director, and age-defying adventurer - to unpack his incredible journey from late-blooming runner to becoming the oldest finisher of the Badwater 135, one of the world’s toughest ultramarathons.
At 80 years old, Bob proves that it's never too late to rewrite your story, conquer deserts, and inspire generations. Whether you're an aspiring endurance athlete, race organizer, or simply someone looking for motivation to stay active, this episode delivers.
🕓 Timestamps & Topics Covered * [00:04:00] Introduction – Welcoming Bob Becker and setting the stage. * [00:06:00] Late Bloomer in Running – Bob started serious running at 57! * [00:07:30] First Ultra: Marathon des Sables – 150-mile Sahara race to celebrate turning 60. * [00:09:00] Why Ultras? – The deep camaraderie and the life-changing community. * [00:13:00] Training Without Mountains – How Bob trains for elevation in flat Florida. * [00:18:30] From Running to Race Directing – Launching the iconic Keys 100 and Daytona 100 races. * [00:23:00] Life After Real Estate – How Bob turned adversity during the financial crisis into purpose. * [00:27:00] Jungle Racing in the Everglades – Creating and running a now-legendary trail race. * [00:34:00] Enduring Support – His wife’s unique but wholehearted support. * [00:38:00] Intergenerational Adventure – Racing with his granddaughter. * [00:39:30] Movement as Medicine – Encouraging older adults to “just start moving.” * [00:40:00] Nutrition & Heat Strategy – Vegan lifestyle and fueling for the long haul. * [00:47:00] Inside Badwater 135 – The heat, the altitude, the brutal beauty. * [00:54:00] History in the Making – Becoming the oldest finisher in Badwater history. * [01:00:00] Mental Grit – Mantras, bear crawls, and mindset hacks. * [01:05:00] Lessons from the Trail – What Bob's learned from every finish line.
🏆 Key Takeaways * 🧠 Age is not a limitation – Bob didn’t start running seriously until his late 50s. * 🌱 Vegan athlete – Nutrition was key to training, racing, and recovery. * 🥵 Badwater veteran – 6x Badwater runner; oldest finisher at age 80. * 🛠️ Creative training methods – Pulling tires across bridges to simulate hills. * 💪 Mental strength over miles – Bear crawled the last mile of Badwater in 2022. * 🧡 Inspiring generations – Encourages others, especially seniors, to stay active.
✨ Notable Quotes “If someone else can do it, why can’t I?” – Bob Becker
“The finish line is glorious. It’s a bragging right you carry forever.”
“You’re never too old to start moving. Start walking, gardening - just move.”
🔗 Connect with Bob Becker * Keys 100 Ultramarathon * Daytona 100 Ultramarathon * Bob’s Feature on Outside Magazine
🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss out on more inspiring conversations with adventurers, endurance athletes, and game-changers just like Bob Becker.
👉 Subscribe to the On Adventure Podcast on your favorite platform to stay updated with every new episode.
📺 Want to see the stories come to life? Head over to our YouTube channel for full interviews, behind-the-scenes clips, and bonus content you won’t hear on the audio feed.
🔥 Hit that subscribe button, leave us a review, and join our growing community of adventurers!
In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Ken Posner—ultrarunner, author, former Army Ranger, and corporate financial analyst—to explore the transformative power of pushing physical and mental boundaries. Ken shares stories from his extraordinary journey completing the "grid": summiting all 35 high peaks of New York's Catskills in every month of the year. Along the way, he stripped away technology, embraced barefoot running, and found a deeper connection with nature and himself.
This episode isn't just about extreme endurance. It's about rediscovering who we are when the noise of the modern world fades away. We unpack how doing hard things in nature can bring clarity, strength, and a more balanced life. Whether you're curious about barefoot hiking, intrigued by minimalist living, or seeking inspiration to shake up your own routine, Ken's story will move you.
Timeline Summary:
[2:22] - Ken's shift from corporate life to ultra endurance running in his late 30s [4:00] - Why he started running barefoot and what kept him going [7:45] - The joy, mindfulness, and sensation of barefoot movement [10:10] - Balancing high-tech corporate work with minimalist, analog outdoor living [19:00] - The metaphor of "signal vs. noise" and how nature helps us tune in [28:30] - Pain vs. suffering: building resilience through chosen challenges [35:00] - The Badwater Double: a 292-mile journey through Death Valley and back [47:30] - How the mountains called him at age 50 and led to chasing the grid [54:00] - The spiritual and transformative lessons learned through mountain pilgrimages
Links & Resources:
- Ken's website: www.barefootken.com
- Ken Posner's book: Chasing the Grid (available Sept 23 on Amazon)
- Born to Run by Christopher McDougall
- Antifragile by Nassim Taleb
- Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey
- The Origin of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind by Julian Jaynes
Closing Remark:
Please check out Ken's website and support him by purchasing his new book!
If this episode sparked something in you, share it with a friend who could use a little adventure in their life. Be sure to follow, rate, and leave a review of the podcast and well as our new YouTube channel—it helps us reach more everyday explorers just like you. Thanks for tuning in!
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Charles Infurna—a coach, academic, and athlete—who shares a powerful story about unlocking human potential. From the legacy of his immigrant family to his own journey through athletics and coaching, Charles brings a deep, authentic perspective on what it really takes to push past limits and perform at the highest level.
We talk about the importance of belief, the trust that fuels great coach-athlete relationships, and how to balance ambition with healthy detachment. Whether you're chasing Olympic dreams, striving for personal growth, or trying to show up better for your kids, Charles’ reflections offer real wisdom for anyone walking their own adventure.
Timeline Summary [1:22] - The immigrant roots that shaped Charles’ drive and work ethic [5:00] - Early lessons from watching his parents work tirelessly for the American dream [7:50] - The college years: How track and field became the anchor that kept him moving forward [10:12] - Stepping into coaching: From reluctant start to life-changing purpose [16:00] - Navigating identity, ego, and love for the sport in his first years as a coach [19:45] - Parenting and coaching: What he's learned about motivation, belief, and letting go [22:55] - The most important thing a coach can do: Be a “light giver” and guide belief [27:10] - Stories of grit, growth, and belief from standout athlete Lewis and others [35:00] - Research insights: What Olympic coaches do differently to create trust and performance [45:00] - Inside “The Throwing Circle”: Charles’ upcoming book and how it blends story with science
Links & Resources * Follow Dr. Charles Infurna Instagram & Twitter: @charlesinfurna LinkedIn: Charles Infurna * Dr. Infurna’s Upcoming Book: The Throwing Circle Launching Summer 2025 – Available soon on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target, and Costco. * Josh's Financial Planning Resources Website: www.ridgelinewealthadvisors.com Newsletter: The Money Trail Guide – Sign up on the site!
Enjoyed This Episode? If you found this conversation valuable, don’t forget to rate, follow, share, and review the podcast! Your support helps us keep bringing inspiring stories and hard-won insights from everyday explorers, adventurers, and achievers.
👉 Also, be sure to find and follow our brand-new YouTube channel where you can watch full episodes and more from the On Adventure Podcast.
Stay safe. Stay curious. Stay on the adventure.
What does it really mean to suffer with purpose? In this episode of On Adventure, I sit down with conservationist and ultra-endurance athlete Tom Hicks – a man whose journey is as layered as the landscapes he climbs. From leading anti-poaching efforts across Africa and Asia with the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation to tackling brutal challenges like Ironman races and high-altitude expeditions, Tom’s life is defined by intentional hardship, deep introspection, and relentless forward motion.
We dive into the heart of resilience, why discomfort can be transformative, and how a former rugby coach found meaning in the mountains. Tom also shares his connection with previous On Adventure guest Holly Budge and his plans to lead a new team to the summit of Kilimanjaro. Whether you're an aspiring adventurer, a mindset junkie, or someone wrestling with self-doubt, this episode delivers a powerful reminder: growth is never linear, and purpose is often found in the pain.
Episode Highlights:
[3:00] – Fighting global wildlife crime: Tom’s work with the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation [8:00] – The brutal truth about poaching, organized crime, and the risks of field conservation [12:00] – From being told he’d never succeed to becoming a conservation leader [18:00] – Mentoring the next generation: the importance of presence and vulnerability [24:00] – The “circuit breaker” mindset tool to quiet negative inner voices [29:00] – What drives us to endure suffering in pursuit of meaning [38:00] – A life-or-death lesson on Lenin Peak – and why good decision-making matters [45:00] – Remembering Dixie Dansercoer and how it reshaped Tom’s risk tolerance [54:00] – Emotional regulation in chaos: the power of calm leadership [59:00] – Balancing ambition, burnout, and building a team for Kilimanjaro
Links & Resources:
- David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation
- Learn more about snow leopard conservation
- Holly Budge’s Episode 52
- Osprey Packs
- In memory of polar explorer Dixie Dansercoer
Connect with Tom: Have questions about conservation, endurance training, or joining the upcoming Kilimanjaro team? Reach out to Tom directly on LinkedIn or Instagram – he’s always happy to connect with fellow adventurers and curious minds.
Enjoyed this episode? If Tom’s story sparked something in you, take a second to rate, follow, and review On Adventure. And be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and inspiration from the trail. Plus – don’t miss new episode drops and bonus video content on our brand-new YouTube channel. Hit subscribe and join us for the next great adventure.
In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Brian Warren—an elite mountain guide whose life has been defined by risk, reinvention, and a deep connection to the mountains. From thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail just days after high school to guiding in the Tetons, Himalaya, and beyond, Brian’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and embracing the unknown.
We explore how Brian transitioned from living out of a backpack to leading high-stakes expeditions around the globe—and eventually, to navigating a whole new adventure: fatherhood and a career pivot into financial services. This conversation dives deep into themes of identity, confidence vs. competence, imposter syndrome, and the unique lessons that come from suffering in comfort. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to reinvent yourself while carrying forward everything hard-earned from past chapters, this episode is for you.
Timeline of Highlights * [2:22] – Launching into adventure: Brian’s decision to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail at 18. * [10:45] – Discovering leadership on the trail and earning the nickname “Merlin.” * [18:20] – Transitioning from Knowles courses to guiding in Jackson Hole and the Tetons. * [27:05] – Learning to ski on “toy skis” and the path to heli-ski guiding. * [37:50] – Companionship as the secret ingredient to adventure: why relationships matter in the mountains. * [44:00] – “Suffer in comfort”: Brian’s mantra for staying calm in high-stakes situations. * [1:04:15] – Stories from the edge: avalanches, crevasse falls, and helicopter crashes. * [1:10:30] – Reinventing life beyond the mountains: from guiding to financial planning.
Links & Resources * Sign up for The Money Trail Guide newsletter for insights on funding your own adventures. * NOLS Outdoor Leadership School * Jackson Hole Mountain Guides
Closing If this episode inspired you, please rate, review, and share the podcast. You can also find our new YouTube page! It’s the best way to help more adventurers like you find these conversations. And don’t forget to follow so you don’t miss the next episode.
What drives someone to leave behind comfort and pursue something deeply meaningful? In this episode of On Adventure, I sit down with Tanner Critz - a martial artist, Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, and founder of Unity Martial Arts in Little Rock. This conversation isn’t just about hiking 2,200 miles or building a successful dojo. It’s about identity, purpose, and the courage it takes to follow your own path - especially when it’s steep and uncertain.
Tanner opens up about his pivotal adventures: hiking the AT alone with a hidden bleeding ulcer, turning a quiet martial arts passion into a thriving community, and facing a near-death COVID experience that shook his world. We explore what it means to live with intention, take risks that matter, and find a sense of home in both place and people. Arthur Brooks says that to live a happy, meaningful life, we all have to answer two questions...Why am I here, and What am I willing to die for? If you’ve ever asked yourself either of these questions - this episode is for you.
🕒 Episode Timeline [3:42] - How a year of reflection led Tanner to hike the Appalachian Trail [8:15] - Experiencing deep physical pain—and choosing not to quit [14:29] - The unexpected transition from graphic design to martial arts [20:51] - Starting Unity Martial Arts and building community through connection [31:03] - The philosophy of self-defense and teaching through empathy [39:30] - Surviving COVID: A near-death experience and its lasting impact [46:10] - Finding peace, purpose, and the value of rest [52:58] - Advice for anyone standing at the edge of a big life decision
🔗 Links & Resources * Unity Martial Arts, Little Rock * The Appalachian Trail Conservancy * Books Mentioned:
+ *End to Ending: An Appalachian Thru Hiker's Story* by Tanner Critz
+ *Shambhala: The Sacred Path of the Warrior* by Chögyam Trungpa
If this episode resonated with you, take a moment to follow, rate, and review the podcast. Also check out our new YouTube page and be sure to subcribe there. And don’t forget to share it with someone who might be standing at the edge of their own next big step. See you next time, adventurers.
In this special episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with the unstoppable Holly Budge—an adventurer, conservationist, and the first woman to skydive over Mount Everest. With World Female Ranger Week in full swing, this conversation couldn’t be more timely. You can find out more about what these incredibly brave female rangers do here and why they are being celebrated this week. Holly opens up about transforming fear into fuel, climbing the world’s highest peak solo, and how her bold expeditions became a platform for championing female wildlife rangers.
We explore her work with How Many Elephants and the founding of World Female Ranger Week, diving into the challenges and triumphs of the women on the front lines of conservation. Whether you’re an adventure junkie, a purpose-driven leader, or someone looking for that next spark of inspiration, this episode delivers the goods.
Timeline Summary:
[2:15] - How a single conversation launched Holly’s journey to skydive Everest [6:47] - What it’s like to freefall at 29,500 feet over the Himalayas [12:22] - Training your mindset for mental toughness and high-altitude endurance [17:31] - The origin story of How Many Elephants and connecting passion with purpose [21:18] - Launching World Female Ranger Week and elevating unheard voices [27:05] - Grit, resilience, and the power of women protecting the wild [35:40] - What Holly’s adventures have taught her about life and leadership
Links & Resources:
- Holly Budge: hollybudge.com
- World Female Ranger Week: worldfemalerangerweek.org
- How Many Elephants: howmanyelephants.org
- Follow Holly on Instagram: @hollybudge
🎧 Don’t Miss a Beat!
If you loved this episode, make sure to follow the show on your favorite podcast app so you never miss an adventure. And we’ve just launched our brand new YouTube channel where you can catch full episodes and exclusive behind-the-scenes content—subscribe now and join us visually!
🎙️ Follow | ❤️ Rate | 💬 Review | 📤 Share — your support means the world.
In this episode of On Adventure, I sit down with Jess Hanson—a certified mental performance consultant, ultra runner, and coach—to explore what it takes to build a resilient mindset for both high-performance athletes and everyday adventurers. Jess shares her journey from playing lacrosse in college to coaching athletes across sports like skiing, mountain biking, and ultra running. We dive deep into how the mental game shapes athletic success, and how pushing your physical and emotional limits can unlock deeper purpose, confidence, and grit.
If you’ve ever faced the “dark moments” in endurance sports or wondered how to mentally prepare for big goals, this conversation is for you. We talk about identity, risk, motivation, and what it really takes to show up when things get hard. Plus, Jess gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her own ultra journey - yes, even the gritty details of 100K races, helicopter skiing, and rim-to-rim-to-rim Grand Canyon adventures.
⏱️ Timeline Summary * [1:20] - From lacrosse to ultra running: Jess shares her athletic evolution * [4:45] - Why mental performance matters—and how it’s different from traditional coaching * [11:40] - Facing fear in the backcountry and building confidence in uncertain moments * [16:50] - Running her first 50-miler with just two months of training (!) * [21:55] - Mental spirals and self-talk strategies during her 100K trail race * [33:10] - Why she loves working with high school athletes and how she helps them reshape their relationship with sport * [45:10] - What drives Jess to keep pushing her limits in running, skiing, and life
🔗 Links & Resources * Jess Hanson’s Coaching: https://cognelite.net * Association for Applied Sport Psychology: https://appliedsportpsych.org
+ Find a CMPC-certified consultant: AASP Directory
- Instagram: @cognelite
💬 Closing Thoughts If this episode gave you fuel to keep chasing your goals - or gave you tools for when the trail gets tough - please rate, follow, and share On Adventure. Also find us on our new YouTube page and click to subscribe! And if you haven’t yet, go back and check out Episode 36 with Jess’s dad, Scott Hanson, for more inspiring stories from the trail.
In this heartfelt episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with a younger Everyday Explorer, my son Hudson, for a conversation that redefines what adventure truly means. While we often explore tales of physical challenge and bold travel, this episode takes us on an inward journey—a story of persistence, identity, and the courage to live fully despite daily challenges. Hudson lives with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS), a rare genetic condition, and he brings us into his world with sincerity, wisdom, and humor.
We talk about what it’s like to grow up with PWS, the unique joys and struggles that come with it, and how it’s shaped Hudson’s perspective on life. He shares how adventure isn’t just found on mountaintops or across oceans—it’s in the relationships we build, the obstacles we face, and the love we share. From exploring WWII history in Europe to dreaming about the Great Wall of China, Hudson reminds us that the truest adventures are often the ones that take place in our own hearts and homes. This episode is not just a story of difference—it’s a story of belonging, resilience, and the extraordinary power of being seen and included.
⏱️ Timeline Summary * [0:00] – Meet Hudson Self and an introduction to Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month * [1:00] – Hudson’s heartfelt presentation on living with PWS * [3:00] – Sharing his passions and personal joys beyond the diagnosis * [5:00] – The importance of inclusion and being treated like everyone else * [7:00] – Discussing the constant challenge of hunger with PWS * [9:00] – How PWS brought meaningful relationships and mentors into Hudson’s life * [10:00] – Visiting historical sites in Europe and the emotional impact of Normandy * [12:00] – Dreaming of a future adventure to the Great Wall of China * [13:00] – Favorite memories from a Jurassic-themed trip to Hawaii
🔗 Links & Resources * Learn more about Prader-Willi Syndrome * Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month (May)
🎧 Closing Thoughts This episode is a powerful reminder that adventure comes in many forms. If Hudson's story moved you, inspired you, or made you think a little differently, please consider rating, following, and sharing the podcast from our YouTube (this is brand new!), Instagram and Facebook pages (this is new too!). And don’t forget to leave a review—we’d love to hear from you.
Hey friends — Josh here. In this episode of On Adventure, I sit down with Luis Rivera, whose story is one of raw grit, reinvention, and the kind of adventure that doesn’t just test your body, but transforms your mind.
From a childhood on a remote island off Puerto Rico to stepping into the unknown of upstate New York at age 12, Luis shares what it really means to navigate cultural shifts, language barriers, and personal setbacks. What begins as a sports story quickly turns into a full-on life odyssey — from a football injury that threatened his future, to an unexpected path in collegiate track and field, to ultimately becoming a national champion and training alongside Olympic athletes.
Luis’s journey is a powerful reminder that the hardest parts of the road are often the ones that reveal who we are. If you’ve ever faced a season of uncertainty or questioned your direction, this conversation offers both perspective and fuel for your own adventure forward.
⏱️ Timeline Highlights [4:02] – From Puerto Rico to Rochester: The culture shock of middle school in America [7:58] – How sports became Luis’s universal language of belonging [13:45] – Earning the nickname “Mean Machine” and learning the power of hard work [20:55] – The injury that ended his football dreams — and started something unexpected [24:10] – A fateful meeting with a track coach and the start of a new athletic journey [38:00] – Becoming a national champion and rewriting what success looks like [47:00] – Life after elite athletics and applying the athlete’s mindset to real life [56:22] – Luis’s powerful reframing of failure and why the “middle ground” matters most
🔗 Links & Resources * Follow Luis Rivera
+ Instagram: @luis4real
+ LinkedIn: Luis Rivera, MBA
- Learn more about Nazareth University Track & Field: nazathletics.com
- Want to hear more episodes like this? Subscribe to On Adventure wherever you listen to podcasts.
🙌 Final Thoughts If you enjoyed this episode, take a moment to rate, follow, and review the show — it’s one of the best ways to help more people discover these stories. And if Luis’s journey inspired you, share it with a friend who needs a reminder that the adventure isn’t just about the destination — it’s about how we grow through the climb.
In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with singer-songwriter and creative visionary Thad Cockrell for a conversation that took an unexpected but deeply inspiring turn. Thad opens up about his journey from wrestling mats and seminary halls to Nashville stages and international acclaim—all while forging a career based on creativity, authenticity, and saying a bold “yes” to uncertainty. We explore what it means to create from love rather than fear, and how rebellion, doubt, and wonder can be sacred tools on the creative path.
From Thad’s bold decision to sell his album for $100 directly to fans, to the moment Jimmy Fallon discovered his song in a hardware store, this conversation will challenge the way you think about success, security, and what it means to truly create without an agenda. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or just someone seeking a more intentional life, this episode is packed with insight and soul.
⏱️ Timeline Summary: [1:45] - Thad on how creativity is a daily act of defeating doubt [4:00] - Why you can’t conform and create at the same time [9:55] - The childhood moment that sparked Thad’s unexpected path toward music [14:20] - Discovering Neil Young and realizing, “This is what I’m supposed to do” [24:30] - Moving to Nashville and the wild story of unexpected community support [33:50] - Thad’s transformative shift from insecurity to creating from security [44:00] - How he released his latest album for $100 and made more than 13 years on Spotify [49:50] - What it means to create from the present moment with no need for external validation [56:00] - Thad’s big dream: building a new music economy and going platinum without streaming
🔗 Links & Resources: * Thad Cockrell’s album “The Kid” — Available exclusively via his site * Learn more about Thad’s journey and upcoming projects at thadcockrell.com * Past guest: Thom Asta's episode
🙌 Enjoyed This Episode? If this conversation sparked something in you, I’d love for you to leave a review, share the episode, or hit that follow button. Your support means the world and helps more people find the podcast. Thanks for being part of the adventure!
Some stories grab you right from the first sentence—and this one, with Patrick Serfass, took me on a ride I didn’t want to end.
Patrick isn’t just a triathlete, or a renewable energy leader, or a dad raising two adventurous boys. He’s a guy who once said yes to sailing a 26-foot boat with no refrigeration all the way to South America. A guy who climbed the Grand Teton without any prior climbing experience. But what really makes his story stick with you is what happened when all of that—his athletic identity, his mobility, his very sense of self—got upended in a moment.
In this episode, we talk about what it means to suffer well, how ego can drive growth, and why the most powerful moments in life often come through challenge. We talk about trust, adventure, the loneliness of injury, and the healing that comes when you’re surrounded by people who say, “I’ve got you.” If you’ve ever been forced to let go of something you thought defined you—this one’s for you.
⏱️ Timestamps [1:12] – Patrick introduces his family and his lifelong pull toward movement and travel [5:55] – A spontaneous dinner conversation leads to a year-long sailing adventure [12:01] – Why shared suffering forges deeper connection than comfort ever could [17:40] – Losing the ability to run, and finding new purpose beyond the podium [30:17] – What happens when your body becomes the limiting factor—and you say yes anyway [35:12] – Climbing Grand Teton without climbing experience: fear, faith, and the magic of the mountains [47:40] – The unexpected rewards of pushing through what scares us [56:00] – What it really means to “stay in shape for the next adventure”—and why it’s not just physical
🔗 Links & Resources * American Biogas Council: americanbiogascouncil.org * Voyage of the Mimi (PBS series): IMDb * Grand Teton National Park: NPS Site * C&O Canal + GAP Trail info: gaptrail.org
If you’ve ever had to redefine who you are, if you’ve ever stood at the edge of something scary and whispered “yes,” I hope this episode reminds you: you’re not alone.
And hey—if it did speak to you, don’t forget to share the love. Follow, rate, and leave a review to help On Adventure reach more listeners who need these stories just as much as we do.
In this fun episode, Josh sits down with John Norwood, a commercial banker from Raleigh, North Carolina, whose second identity is that of a passionate adventurer. While John’s day job revolves around numbers and negotiations, his soul is stirred by trails, waterfalls, and sunfish sails. Rather than jetting off to exotic lands, John finds endless wonder in his own backyard—the mountains, lakes, and coastlines of North Carolina.
Together, they explore John’s lifelong connection with the outdoors, how he blends adventure with a full-time career, and how he’s cultivated a community of fellow explorers. From Christmas Day hikes to dry-suit sailing in winter winds, John shares stories that blend practical inspiration with a bit of wanderlust magic. 🌲🛶
⏱️ Timestamps * [00:00:00] Introduction to John Norwood and his adventurous alter ego * [00:03:00] Family traditions and the origin of the “dreaded Christmas hike” * [00:06:00] Sailing in dry suits and winter wind at Falls & Jordan Lake * [00:11:00] An unforgettable halibut fishing trip in Alaska * [00:16:00] Why John chooses to adventure local * [00:18:00] The magic of Grayson Highlands and wild ponies * [00:24:00] John’s roots in outdoor exploration * [00:33:00] The 11-year quest to complete 100 Classic NC Hikes * [00:37:00] Turning solo trips into a thriving hiking community * [00:41:00] The deep “why” behind adventuring: mental clarity, physical challenge, and spiritual renewal * [00:51:00] Upcoming trips: Cape Lookout Jeep expedition & AT alternatives post-Hurricane Helene
🔑 Key Takeaways * Adventure is everywhere – You don’t need a passport to find wonder. * Make space for solitude – Recharging happens when you unplug and reconnect with nature. * Community grows through shared challenge – John's trips turned into a tribe. * Local treasures, lifetime stories – From Grayson Highlands to the Sycamore Trail sleep hack, there's beauty in repetition.
“The trail gives me solitude, structure, and stories—and that's what keeps me coming back.” – John Norwood
I love these conversations, but this one was fun. We hit on the depths of the human condition to drive each of us on to our own adventures. So what happens when a dedicated trial attorney makes adventure a non-negotiable part of his life? In this episode, I sit down with Patrick Moody, a prosecutor for the state of Montana who refuses to let a demanding career keep him from chasing adventure. From trail running right out his back door to tackling high-altitude mountaineering, Patrick has found a way to integrate the wilderness into his daily routine.
We dive into his experiences traveling across five continents in a single year, climbing some of the world's most stunning peaks, and even navigating a life-altering arthritis diagnosis that nearly took away his ability to walk. Patrick shares how he mentally and physically pushes through challenges, what drives him to keep pursuing difficult things, and why he believes that truly living means stepping into the unknown. This conversation is packed with insights on adventure, resilience, and making the most of the time we have.
Episode Highlights: [1:30] – Patrick’s background as a Montana-based attorney and adventure-seeker [3:15] – Why Helena, Montana is a paradise for outdoor lovers [6:45] – The shocking arthritis diagnosis that nearly ended Patrick’s ability to move [10:20] – How he rebuilt his body and got into trail running post-diagnosis [15:45] – The lessons of adventure: losing a parent young and growing up without wealth [22:10] – Learning to listen to his instincts on when to push forward and when to turn back [31:05] – The scariest moment of his mountaineering career—trapped in a lightning storm [35:55] – A year of adventure: how Patrick traveled to five continents in 2024 [44:30] – The importance of intentionality in adventure, career, and finances [50:10] – Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 fun—why suffering is part of the reward
Links & Resources: * Books mentioned in the conversation: + The Impossible First by Colin O’Brady (about the first solo trek across Antarctica) + Camping with Kierkegaard (exploring philosophy and adventure) * Connect with past guests mentioned in the episode: + Tim Matthews (Ep. 18) + Robbie Lenfestey (Ep. 21) + Kenton Cool (Ep. 22)
Join the Adventure! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating and review! Follow the show for more inspiring conversations with people who make adventure a priority in their lives. And if this conversation resonated with you, share it with someone who needs a little extra push to chase their own adventure. 🚀 🎙️
What would you do if failure was a real possibility? If suffering was inevitable, but you had the option to walk away? Would you still go for it? My guest today, Kimberly Brookshire, knows this challenge well. She’s a long-distance hiker, a women’s adventure guide, and a passionate fly fisher—always choosing the hard path, the uncertain path, because that’s where she finds the most growth.
In this episode, Kimberly shares her journey from fashion and city life to hiking thousands of miles on some of the toughest trails in the U.S. and beyond. She opens up about why she keeps pushing her limits, how she finds meaning in suffering, and the lessons she’s learned from guiding women through their own adventurous pursuits. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for inspiration to take a bold step in your own life, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and a fresh perspective on what it means to live fully.
Episode Highlights: [2:15] How a childhood filled with adventure led Kimberly to long-distance hiking [6:40] The pivotal decision to hike the Mountain-to-Sea Trail—and why no one thought she’d finish [15:20] Why guiding women’s adventure trips is about more than just the outdoors [25:00] Handling adversity on the trail: lessons from near disaster [37:45] The mental toughness strategies that keep Kimberly pushing forward [45:10] Finding the balance between solo adventures and guiding others [54:30] The Arizona Trail: what’s next on Kimberly’s adventure list
Links & Resources: * Follow Kimberly on Instagram: @kimberlybrookshire * Learn more about the WHOA Travel for women-powered Adventures: WHOA Travel * Check out the Mountain-to-Sea Trail: www.mountainstoseatrail.org
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! It helps others find the show and keeps the adventure going.
What do banking and backcountry exploration have in common? More than you’d think! In this episode of the On Adventure, I sit down with Frank Trotter—banking pioneer, entrepreneur, and avid adventurer. From his early days racing cars in Europe to co-founding EverBank and now launching Battle Bank, Frank shares how his career has been driven by innovation and a passion for pushing boundaries. But it's not all business—Frank also dives into his love for outdoor exploration, from summiting 14ers in Colorado to backcountry treks in Argentina.
We talk about the lessons learned from extreme environments, the balance between risk and reward, and how his entrepreneurial spirit aligns with his drive for adventure. Plus, we dive into the incredible Excellent Adventures group and why surrounding yourself with the right people makes all the difference—whether in business or the wilderness.
Episode Highlights: * [2:00] Frank’s journey from hockey in St. Louis to racing cars in Europe * [6:30] The evolution of internet banking and why he’s launching Battle Bank * [10:45] The hidden ways big banks profit off their customers * [18:20] The Excellent Adventures hiking group and its impact on Frank’s outdoor pursuits * [24:15] Facing physical challenges—how a medical study changed his ability to keep exploring * [35:40] The connection between adventure, mindfulness, and perspective * [48:00] Knowing when to push forward and when to turn back—lessons from the mountains * [52:30] What’s next? Zion, GoPro Games, and upcoming adventures
Links & Resources: * Learn more about Battle Bank: [Coming Soon] * Listen to the episode with Skip Schweiss on Excellent Adventures (Episode 32) * Explore the GoPro Mountain Games: www.mountaingames.com * Follow Frank Trotter on LinkedIn: Frank Trotter
Enjoyed this episode? Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a fellow adventurer. And if you haven’t already, sign up for my newsletter, The Money Trail Guide, at www.ridgelinewealthadvisors.com to stay inspired on your financial and adventure journey!
What does it take to push your body and mind to the limit for days on end—while relying entirely on a team? The answer is epic! In this episode, I sit down with seasoned adventure racer Roy Malone, who has spent the past 24 years competing in some of the toughest endurance races in the world. From trekking through the jungles of Fiji to navigating the badlands of North Dakota, Roy shares the highs, the lows, and the life lessons that come from competing in these multi-day, non-stop races.
We dive deep into the mental and physical grit required to finish these extreme challenges, the team dynamics that make or break success, and how adventure racing parallels the business world in unexpected ways. Roy also talks about his new venture, TerraVenture, which is bringing adventure to everyday explorers who crave the thrill of the unknown. If you’re curious about endurance racing, risk-taking, or just want to hear some unbelievable stories from the wild, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
Episode Highlights [00:00] - Welcome and introduction to Roy Malone [02:45] - How Roy balances adventure racing, family life, and a career in finance [08:10] - What is adventure racing? A deep dive into the sport’s extreme challenges [12:30] - The mental game: Handling sleep deprivation, exhaustion, and team dynamics [22:00] - Hallucinations on the trail: Roy’s wildest experiences in multi-day races [31:15] - The toughest race of Roy’s career and why Fiji pushed him to his limit [40:45] - TerraVenture: Roy’s mission to bring adventure racing to a broader audience [55:00] - What’s next? How long Roy plans to keep competing and where he’s headed next
Links & Resources 🔗 Learn more about Team Bones Adventure Racing: BonesAdventure.com 🔗 Explore Roy’s new company, TerraVenture: Terra-Venture.com 📧 Connect with Roy via email: roymalone@gmail.com
Enjoyed the episode? If you loved this conversation, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the show! And don’t forget to share it with a fellow adventurer. 🚀🎙️
In this episode of The On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Jenna Carroll, a hiking guide and endurance athlete who transformed her life by stepping off the corporate treadmill and onto the Appalachian Trail. Jenna shares her incredible journey, from her early days as a basketball star and management consultant to finding her passion for long-distance hiking and trail running. We delve into her 2021 northbound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, her life-changing decision to make the outdoors her career, and her remarkable return to the trail in 2023 to attempt a self-supported fastest known time (FKT).
Along the way, Jenna reflects on the emotional highs and lows of solo hiking, the invaluable lessons of community and resilience, and how nature continues to fuel her creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just curious about life’s unpredictable paths, Jenna’s story is sure to inspire.
Episode Highlights: [2:10] - Introducing Jenna Carroll: From basketball star to corporate life to hiker-extraordinaire. [6:45] - Jenna’s first thru-hike: Why she left her desk job to tackle the Appalachian Trail. [15:30] - Overcoming freezing temps on Blood Mountain: Jenna’s turning point just four days into the trail. [24:40] - Post-trail life: Moving to Asheville, finding her calling as a hiking guide, and rediscovering creativity through poetry. [39:00] - Tackling personal endurance challenges: Jenna’s first 50K and her epic Montreat trail day. [43:50] - Attempting the self-supported FKT: 63 days, 2,200 miles, and lessons learned on the Appalachian Trail. [57:00] - The value of community: How connection and support fueled Jenna’s solo adventures. [1:02:30] - What’s next for Jenna: A 100-mile race, guiding trips, and continuing her journey in Asheville.
Links & Resources:
- Blue Ridge Hiking Company
- Books that inspired Jenna:
- Thirst: 2600 Miles to Home by Heather “Anish” Anderson
- A Beautiful Work in Progress by Myrna Valerio
- Learn more about Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the eastern U.S. here.
Closing: If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and share On Adventure! It means the world to us and helps us reach more adventure seekers like you. Until next time, I hope you find your next great adventure.
What does it mean to live a life of adventure, and how do the challenges we face shape our purpose? In this episode, we sit down with Wells Jones, author of the gripping novel A Line in the Sand and a man whose life has been anything but ordinary. Wells shares his journey from his days as a Navy Air Rescue team member to his experiences as a producer, actor, and adventurer.
Our conversation touches on his transformative treks through the Middle East, retracing the steps of T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), and how those experiences inspired his new novel. Wells also opens up about the lessons learned from turning back in precarious situations, the importance of having a purpose in every endeavor, and how human connection can transcend cultural divides. Tune in for a captivating discussion that will leave you reflecting on your own definition of adventure.
Episode Highlights [2:15] - Wells reflects on his upbringing, family dynamics, and the early loss of his father that shaped his adventurous spirit. [6:50] - Navy Air Rescue: From parachuting to mountain rescues in Antarctica, Wells recalls life-changing experiences and how they prepared him for life's challenges. [12:30] - The philosophy of adventure: What George Mallory and Winston Churchill taught Wells about conquering oneself. [20:15] - Facing danger: Wells shares harrowing stories, including a near-death moment during a precision skydive practice. [38:00] - Trekking the Middle East: Retracing T.E. Lawrence’s journey during the Arab Revolt and the human connections that inspired A Line in the Sand. [50:30] - The heart of the book: How historical fiction blends real-life events with storytelling to shed light on the complexities of the modern Middle East. [1:00:15] - Wells’ hopes for readers of his book: The lessons of history and the importance of seeing humanity in everyone.
Links & Resources * Wells Jones IMDB Page: Wells Jones on IMDB * A Line in the Sand (Book): Buy on Amazon * Learn more about the Seeds of Peace organization: Seeds of Peace * Miles Spencer website
Closing Thoughts Thank you for joining me on this deep dive into Wells Jones’ incredible life story. If you found inspiration in this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast with your fellow adventurers. Don’t forget to hit the follow button so you never miss an episode. Until next time, keep exploring, keep learning, and as always, live your great adventure.
In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I catch up with an old friend and fraternity brother, Dr. Tommy Gavigan. From our days at the University of North Carolina to his current life as a practicing surgeon in Charlotte, Tommy’s journey has been anything but conventional. After college, Tommy spent nearly a decade guiding teenagers into remote wilderness areas with Moondance Adventures—experiences that shaped not only his leadership but also his path into medicine.
We explore the connection between pushing past your comfort zone in the backcountry and managing high-stakes scenarios in the operating room. Tommy shares incredible stories of adventure, personal growth, and how these experiences molded his outlook on life. Now in his “Adventure 3.0,” he reflects on fatherhood, future aspirations, and why challenging yourself—physically, mentally, and emotionally—is key to living fully.
This episode is a deep dive into why we seek hard things, what we gain on the other side, and how adventure can prepare us for life’s biggest moments.
Episode Highlights * [1:10] - Introduction: Reconnecting with Tommy and his unique journey post-UNC. * [4:45] - The Moondance Adventures: From green teenagers to life-changing moments in the wilderness. * [12:30] - Real backcountry challenges: Lightning storms, hypothermia, and a rare grizzly bear encounter. * [18:00] - Service through adventure: Teaching kids leadership, grit, and resilience. * [31:30] - From outdoor leader to surgeon: Tommy’s leap into medicine and his pivotal “letter to the future self.” * [39:20] - Adventure 3.0: Parenthood, teaching his son the outdoors, and future dreams. * [42:15] - Managing high-stakes stress: Lessons from the wilderness to the operating room. * [45:30] - What’s next? Personal peaks, challenges, and expanding the comfort zone.
Links & Resources * Moondance Adventures * From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks (Recommended Book) * Ridgeline Wealth Advisors - Sign up for The Money Trail Guide newsletter (at the bottom of the page)!
In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with my friend and former colleague, Matt Miner, to talk about his unique take on adventure. From growing up in Seattle and Tucson to now running his own wealth management firm, Matt shares the pivotal moments that shaped his life and career.
We explore what it means to embrace life’s challenges, how intentional planning creates opportunities, and why staying true to your values makes all the difference. Whether it’s his love for the outdoors, paying off substantial debt, or helping his kids prepare for adulthood, Matt’s story is full of practical wisdom and honest reflections.
If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate big life transitions while staying grounded, this conversation is for you.
Timeline Summary [00:00] Introduction - Welcoming Matt Miner and a look at his journey. [02:00] Roots and Resilience - Growing up in Seattle, moving to Tucson, and finding adventure outdoors. [06:30] Career Transitions - From corporate roles to entrepreneurship: lessons learned. [12:00] Debt-Free Milestone - How Matt’s family paid off $225,000 in debt and moved forward. [19:00] The Outdoors Connection - Hunting, backpacking, and building community. [26:15] Journaling for Growth - Using writing to reflect and move forward. [33:45] Family Legacy - Preparing the next generation with life skills and values. [36:00] Key Takeaways - The power of knowing your values and making intentional choices.
Links & Resources * Miner Wealth Management * Dave Ramsey’s The Total Money Makeover * Ridgeline Wealth Advisors Newsletter
Closing Remarks If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the show and leave a review. Your support helps us bring more thoughtful conversations like this one to life.
In the latest episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Scott Hanson, a true veteran of endurance challenges and an influential figure in the financial industry. Scott's story is one of resilience, determination, and finding purpose through pushing physical and mental boundaries. Our conversation explores Scott’s journey from casual running to completing the grueling Western States 100—a 100-mile ultramarathon with 19,000 feet of elevation gain—and how that experience, among others, shaped his approach to life and business. We also dive into his memorable adventure up Mount Fuji, where cultural and personal growth merged in an unforgettable climb.
Join us as Scott shares the highs and lows of his adventures, from overcoming pain and doubt during ultramarathons to the life lessons he's applied from these challenges to his professional and personal life.
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Introduction – Meeting Scott Hanson
[02:08] Scott’s Journey Begins – From reluctant high school runner to becoming captivated by endurance sports.
[06:22] Training and Competing – Navigating family, work, and training routines with morning runs and long days on the trail.
[20:00] The Western States 100 Experience – The mental and physical battles of one of the world's toughest races.
[23:48] Lessons Learned – How pushing through “the pain cave” taught Scott resilience and mental fortitude that extend beyond sport.
[27:27] Reflecting on Challenges – Applying adventure-driven tenacity to everyday life and professional challenges.
[39:00] Mount Fuji – A cultural and physical journey with friends and family, complete with lessons in humility and awe.
[48:35] The Future of Adventure – Scott’s plans and reflections on maintaining an adventurous spirit as life evolves.
Links & Resources:
- Western States 100 race
- Allworth Financial
Closing Remarks: If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to rate, follow, and share the On Adventure Podcast. Your feedback helps us bring more inspiring stories like Scott Hanson’s to your ears!
Join me for a cool conversation with Owen Hayden, a high-energy adventurer, corporate achiever, and former athlete who’s mastered the art of resilience. Owen shares his journey from a high-level sports career to navigating the challenges of the corporate world, all while staying connected to his passion for adventure. We discuss what it takes to push through adversity, the lessons he learned from sports, and his pursuit of grit as a defining trait both on and off the field. Plus, you’ll hear about Owen’s commitment to exploring the world—from Glacier National Park with his young family to Ironman races and rodeos. If you’ve ever been curious about finding purpose and adventure in everyday life, this episode is for you.
Highlights:
- [00:01:32] Owen’s career journey: From corporate climber to world traveler.
- [03:00] Hiking Glacier National Park with a baby in tow—tips for family adventurers.
- [07:00] The power of sports and family in building resilience and grit.
- [11:30] Learning from loss: how adversity shapes our drive and character.
- [14:00] Coaches and mentors: the unexpected father figures who shaped Owen’s path.
- [24:19] Finding a new “team” after sports: how CrossFit and community fill the gap.
- [32:00] Bucket list adventures: How Owen plans to keep exploring with his family.
Links & Resources:
- Glacier National Park travel information
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) resources
- Ironman Triathlon Series
Thanks for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating, following, and sharing "On Adventure." Your support helps us bring you more amazing guests and stories.
In this special episode, I'm excited to bring you an insightful webinar with adventure coach and psychologist Matt Walker. Known for his unique blend of mountain climbing experience and psychological expertise, Matt shares how the concept of adventure can shape not only extreme expeditions but also our everyday lives. In this session, he takes us through his recent solo climb of Manaslu, one of the highest peaks in the world, and how it taught him the importance of living adventurously. Learn about the five essential elements of adventure and how you can apply them to your own life, whether you're scaling mountains or navigating day-to-day challenges. This is an inspiring episode that will push you to think deeply about your own adventures—big or small!
Tune in to hear Matt's captivating stories and insights on high endeavor, uncertainty, total commitment, tolerance for adversity, and the power of companionship.
Episode Highlights: [2:00] – Introducing Matt Walker: From psychologist to extreme adventure guide [4:10] – What is adventure? Challenging conventional definitions [11:00] – Matt’s solo climb on Manaslu: confronting extreme conditions and overcoming obstacles [15:30] – The Five Elements of Adventure: High endeavor, uncertain outcome, total commitment, tolerance for adversity, and great companionship [21:00] – How Matt integrates his family into his adventurous life [27:45] – Climbing in extreme altitudes: life in the death zone [33:00] – The importance of staying present and focused during difficult journeys [40:00] – Why adventure isn’t just for mountaintops: Applying the elements of adventure to daily life [45:00] – Listener Q&A: Overcoming psychological barriers to adventure
Links & Resources:
- Learn more about Matt Walker and his work: Matt Walker Adventure
- Ridgeline Wealth Advisors: www.RidgelineWealthAdvisors.com
Closing Remarks: If you enjoyed this conversation with Matt Walker and learned something new about how to bring more adventure into your life, don’t forget to rate, follow, and share this podcast with friends! And if you’re ready to embark on your own adventure, start by subscribing to our newsletter for more tips and resources. Until next time, keep pursuing your great adventure!
In this episode, I sit down with Steve Bradshaw, a lifelong adventurer and outdoor enthusiast from Western North Carolina. Steve’s story is one of pushing boundaries, from growing up in West Virginia to becoming a collegiate championship swimmer, and ultimately to hiking the entire Appalachian Trail. Steve shares how he stepped out of his comfort zone to take on the grueling 2,200-mile trail, and we explore the mental and physical resilience it takes to complete such an endeavor. Whether you’re into hiking, or simply looking for inspiration on how to challenge yourself in new ways, Steve’s journey offers a wealth of insight.
We dive into Steve’s upbringing and how his early experiences in the outdoors shaped his life. We also chat about his experiences with starting and selling a successful business, how he balanced family life with adventure, and the unexpected lessons he learned on the trail. This episode is packed with stories of adventure, perseverance, and growth, so buckle up!
Timeline Summary: [2:22] - Steve’s introduction and how his love for the outdoors began in West Virginia [8:45] - How collegiate swimming shaped Steve’s mindset and approach to challenges [14:50] - The story behind Steve’s trail name and why he decided to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail [23:30] - Navigating the hardest sections of the Appalachian Trail and how the weather played a role [31:10] - The importance of “hiking your own hike” and the unique culture of trail communities [40:55] - Lessons learned from the grind of hiking and how they translate to everyday life [47:15] - What’s next for Steve: From elk hunting in Colorado to new adventures on the horizon
Links & Resources: * Henderson County Children and Family Resources: www.childrenandfamily.org * Learn more about the Appalachian Trail: Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Closing: If you enjoyed this conversation with Steve, be sure to rate, follow, and share the podcast with your friends. Every review helps us reach more listeners who are ready to embark on their own great adventures. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time!
In this episode of the On Adventure podcast, I sit down with Skip Schweiss, a seasoned executive in the financial services industry and a passionate adventurer. Known for his years of leadership at TD Ameritrade, Skip has seamlessly woven his professional life with a personal quest to push physical and mental boundaries in the great outdoors. We dive into Skip's career journey, from his work in advisor advocacy to how he's now dedicating more time to his love of the wilderness.
But Skip isn’t just about hiking the occasional trail—he organizes an annual group hike called "Excellent Adventures," attracting dozens of people to tackle challenging hikes across some of the most beautiful landscapes in the U.S. From the majestic peaks of Colorado’s 14ers to this year’s adventure in Telluride, Skip shares his motivation for doing hard things, the camaraderie that comes from shared suffering, and why he believes that testing our limits makes us better.
Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or someone looking for inspiration to push past your comfort zone, Skip's stories will encourage you to set bigger goals, embrace the challenge, and find joy in the journey.
Episode Highlights: [2:42] - Skip’s journey in the financial industry, his role at TD Ameritrade, and how his love for adventure began.
[7:00] - How the Rockies ignited Skip’s passion for hiking, leading him to complete all 54 of Colorado’s 14ers.
[12:15] - The origin of Skip’s “Excellent Adventures” group hikes, which have now grown to include 70 people, and the importance of camaraderie in adventure.
[29:00] - Handling adversity on the trail: The lessons Skip has learned about staying calm when things go wrong, and how to apply that mindset to life.
[40:30] - A recap of the most recent “Excellent Adventure” in Telluride, where Skip led a group on a brutal 26-mile hike with 8,000 feet of elevation gain.
[52:00] - What’s next for Skip and the group? A sneak peek into next year’s adventure to Zion National Park and some of the epic hikes planned.
Links & Resources: * Learn more about “Excellent Adventures” and past trips on the Tiburon Advisors website: Skip & Chip's Excellent Adventures * Book Recommendation: Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales
If you enjoyed today’s episode, please take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast! Don’t forget to follow us so you don’t miss out on upcoming episodes filled with more inspiring adventures.
In this deeply moving and inspiring episode, I sit down with Clay Sanders, a man whose life is marked by profound adventures, resilience, and purpose. Clay shares stories of his adventurous spirit, from crossing the country on an Elliptigo to running the Leadville 100 ultra marathon, all while balancing a successful career as a dentist. But beyond the adventures, Clay opens up about the tragic loss of his son, Joel, to opioid addiction, and how that event spurred him into action, continuing his son's legacy by raising awareness about addiction stigma.
We dive into Clay's perspective on how adventure can be both structured and unpredictable, and how his journey to honor his son led him to discover even deeper connections with others, both in the U.S. and across the globe. You won’t want to miss Clay's powerful reflection on the process of navigating life's challenges and the wisdom he has gained along the way.
Timeline Summary: [2:22] - Clay shares his move from Western North Carolina to Colorado and how he adjusted to life at higher altitudes. [6:17] - Adventures in ultra-running and what led Clay to tackle the notorious Leadville 100. [14:30] - The impact of high altitude on ultra-endurance races and how Clay trained for the Leadville 100 while living at sea level. [28:19] - Tragedy strikes: Clay discusses the loss of his son Joel and how that transformed his life and purpose. [32:00] - The journey across the U.S. on an elliptical bike to raise awareness about addiction stigma. [43:10] - Clay’s global adventure: how traveling to 20 countries opened his eyes to the shared humanity across cultures. [56:23] - The metaphor of the Great Barrier Reef: how diversity and unity coexist harmoniously in nature and in life. [1:05:34] - Reflections on the power of the journey versus the destination.
Links & Resources: * In Joel's Steps - Learn more about Clay’s mission to raise awareness for addiction stigma. * Leadville 100 Ultra Marathon: Official Website
Closing Remarks: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, follow, and share it with others who might be inspired by Clay's story. Your support helps spread these powerful messages. See you next time as we continue to explore life’s greatest adventures!
In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jeff Ames, aka Rambler, a true "everyday explorer" who took on the challenge of a lifetime by through-hiking the Appalachian Trail. Jeff's journey is a story of preparation, endurance, and self-discovery as he trekked 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine over several months. We dive into what inspired him to embark on such an ambitious adventure after retiring in his mid-50s, the highs and lows of his journey, and the unforgettable characters he met along the way. Whether you're an aspiring long-distance hiker or just love hearing tales of personal transformation, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.
Join us as we explore the planning and execution of Jeff’s hike, the camaraderie found on the trail, and the lessons learned from spending months in the wilderness. You'll also hear some wild stories about the colorful personalities that Jeff encountered on the trail, and why he believes that hiking is much more than just a physical challenge.
Episode Highlights:
- [00:00] Introduction to the episode and Jeff's background
- [01:48] Jeff’s preparation and inspiration for hiking the Appalachian Trail
- [04:00] The seed of adventure: how Jeff’s interest in the AT grew over the years
- [09:19] Hiking solo vs. finding a “trail family” on the journey
- [13:00] Memorable encounters: Jeff’s experience with a Russian hiker named Navigator
- [18:00] Crazy hiker stories and the unique characters of the Appalachian Trail
- [26:00] Meeting Kristian Morgan, an elite ultra-marathoner aiming for the fastest known time on the AT
- [40:00] The importance of preparation, gear, and respecting the trail's challenges
- [55:00] Reflections on the simplicity and focus that long-distance hiking brings
- [01:06:00] What’s next for Jeff after completing the Appalachian Trail?
Links & Resources:
- Follow the On Adventure Podcast in your favorite podcast app.
- Jeff's Trail Journal
- Whiteblaze.net
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to adventurers like you!
Welcome back to the On Adventure Podcast! In this episode, I chat with Jonny Beardmore, now famously known as the Galapagos Postman. Jonny's unique quest involves delivering handwritten letters left in an ancient Galapagos Islands postbox to various locations worldwide. But this adventure is more than just about delivering mail; it's about exploring a deeper question about whether we are disconnected as a species and how we can rebuild those crucial human connections.
Throughout his journey, Jonny has met a diverse array of people, each with their own fascinating stories. From reuniting a couple in Belize through a heartfelt love letter to delivering a touching note from a daughter to her mother in Mexico City, Jonny's mission has brought surprises, unexpected joy and reconnections (to him and the receipients). He shares stories of spontaneous hospitality, like the family in Mexico City who welcomed him with tequila and dried crickets, and the emotional reunions that have occurred as a result of his deliveries. Join me as Jonny shares his serendipitous encounters, the challenges he faces, and the incredible impact his journey is having on people's lives and the charities he is fundraising for.
Episode Highlights:
- [00:00] Introduction: Josh introduces Jonny Beardmore, explaining how he discovered Jonny's story and what intrigued him about it.
- [02:20] The Galapagos Postman: Jonny explains his nickname and details the tradition of the Galapagos Islands postbox that dates back to 1793.
- [05:17] The Challenge: Jonny talks about the inception of the Galapagos Postman Challenge, collecting 50 letters from the Galapagos and his year-long journey to deliver them.
- [07:45] Personal Motivation: Jonny discusses his personal motivations, including the impact of his father's battle with motor neurone disease (ALS).
- [15:05] Planning and Logistics: The process of planning this ambitious global adventure, including the support systems in place and the challenges faced.
- [24:03] Human Connections: Jonny reflects on the commonalities he has found among diverse cultures and the importance of personal connections in an increasingly digital world.
- [38:00] Inspiring Stories: Jonny shares some of the most touching and inspiring stories of delivering letters, including reuniting people and the emotional impacts.
- Belize: Reuniting a couple through a heartfelt love letter.
- Mexico City: Delivering a daughter's letter to her mother, recovering from surgery, resulting in an emotional family reunion.
- Central America: Overcoming challenges to deliver letters, experiencing spontaneous hospitality, and hearing incredible life stories.
- [47:50] Funding and Support: Insight into how Jonny funds his adventures and the work-life balance required to manage such an undertaking.
- [55:00] The Bigger Picture: Jonny's thoughts on whether the world is truly disconnected despite technological advancements and how this challenge has impacted his views.
Links & Resources:
- Follow Jonny Beardmore: Instagram - Big O Adventures
- Tracking Map of Jonny’s Journey: Galapagos Postman Challenge Map
- Buy your own TGP t-shirt here
- Donate to Motor Neurone Disease Research:
- New Zealand MND Society
- Stand Against MND (UK)
- Watch Jonny’s Documentary: The Great Game: 30,000 Miles Across Central Asia
Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to light. For more content, visit Ridgeline Wealth Advisors and sign up for our newsletter, The Money Trail Guide. Until next time, pursue your own great adventure!
Welcome back to The On Adventure Podcast! I'm your host, Josh Self, and today, my conversation is with Matt Walker. Matt is a unique blend of psychologist and adventurer, who has spent nearly 30 years leading expeditions on multiple continents. In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology behind adventure, the importance of doing hard things, and why integrating adventure into our lives is vital. Matt shares his insights on how discomfort can be a powerful tool for growth and how adventure helps us build resilience and find clarity. We also touch on his upcoming webinar that I will be hosting, so stay tuned for that!
Timeline Summary * [00:00] - Introduction to Matt Walker, his unique background, and the upcoming webinar on integrating adventure into our lives. * [02:07] - Matt talks about his journey into adventure and psychology, and the connection between the two. * [05:00] - Discussing the real "why" behind adventure and how it ties into personal and professional growth. * [10:12] - Reflecting on the potential disruptions of changing sleep habits. * [14:24] - Matt explains the five elements of adventure: High Endeavor, Uncertain Outcome, Total Commitment, Tolerance for Adversity, and Great Companionship. * [19:00] - The role of great companionship in meaningful adventures and how solo endeavors still require support. * [25:00] - Overcoming fear in mountaineering and how it parallels with facing life’s challenges. * [32:00] - The importance of intentionality and purpose in manhood and how adventure helps achieve this. * [43:00] - Matt's personal adventures, including building a house and planning solo ascents of 8,000-meter peaks. * [47:00] - Closing remarks and how to connect with Matt Walker for more insights and support.
Links & Resources * Matt Walker Adventure * The 5 Elements of Adventure * Matt on LinkedIn * Matt on Instagram
Closing Remarks Thank you for joining us on this episode of The On Adventure Podcast. If you enjoyed our conversation with Matt Walker, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring content to you. Don’t forget to check out the links and resources mentioned, and as always, pursue your own great adventure!
Welcome back to the On Adventure Podcast! I'm your host, Josh Self, and today I had the pleasure of speaking with Scott MacKillop, a seasoned financial professional and avid outdoorsman. Despite our shared background in finance, our conversation veered away from the boardroom and delved into the thrilling world of outdoor adventures. Scott shared how his passion for the outdoors was self-developed rather than instilled by his parents, and how fear serves as a clarifying force for him, whether on the mountain or in the boardroom.
Throughout our discussion, Scott talked about his extensive career, innovative achievements, and the invaluable lessons he has learned from pushing his limits in nature. From climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to the peaks of Colorado, Scott's adventures have given him a profound sense of being fully alive, experiencing all emotions and embracing the challenges that come with pushing oneself to the edge. We also explored the significance of self-discovery and the joy of living, which Scott finds in every adventure he undertakes. This episode is packed with inspiration and insights into the intertwining of adventure and personal growth.
Timeline Summary:
- [00:00] - Introduction to Scott MacKillop and his background in finance and outdoor adventures.
- [01:00] - Scott's unique perspective on fear and clarity.
- [03:00] - Early life and the development of Scott's love for the outdoors.
- [06:00] - Memorable outdoor experiences and the influence of his childhood.
- [14:00] - Transition from DC to Colorado and the role of running in Scott's life.
- [20:00] - Facing and overcoming physical and mental challenges in adventure.
- [27:00] - Scott's near-death experience during a solo hike in Colorado.
- [35:00] - The mental aspect of pushing limits and setting goals.
- [45:00] - Reflecting on past adventures and the continuous pursuit of new challenges.
- [50:00] - Upcoming adventures and the importance of staying active.
Links & Resources:
- Cactus to Clouds trail
- Connect with Scott MacKillop on LinkedIn: Scott MacKillop
- More about the Camino del Santiago: Camino del Santiago
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the On Adventure Podcast. If you enjoyed this conversation, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to you. Until next time, keep pushing your limits and pursuing your own great adventures!
In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Joe Gray, an exceptional athlete who turned challenges into triumphs. Joe shares his journey from growing up in Nashville, Tennessee, and attending the Tennessee School for the Blind to becoming a world-class athlete. With the support of dedicated mentors and his unwavering determination, Joe excelled in wrestling and track and field, eventually competing at the Paralympics. His story is a powerful testament to resilience, mentorship, and the pursuit of dreams.
Timeline Summary: * [00:00] - Introduction to Joe Gray and his inspiring journey. * [00:01] - Joe's early life in Nashville and attending the Tennessee School for the Blind. * [00:04] - Coping with visual impairment and developing an adventurous spirit. * [00:10] - Transition to high school sports and excelling in wrestling and track. * [00:16] - Competing in the Youth World Championships and facing international competition. * [00:25] - Setting a world record in the 4x100m relay and the realization of his potential. * [00:32] - Challenges of training and maintaining top performance while seeking sponsorships. * [00:39] - Transitioning from athlete to coach and starting Sight School with Lex Gillette. * [00:52] - Organizing ski trips for visually impaired students and the impact on their lives.
Links & Resources: * Joe Gray's Instagram: @Bornfly86 * Joe Gray's Facebook: Joe Gray * Sight School: Sight School Official Website * Challenge Aspen: Challenge Aspen Website
Closing Remark: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the On Adventure Podcast. Share it with friends and family who might find Joe's story as inspiring as we did. Join us next time for more incredible journeys and motivational tales!
Welcome back to the On Adventure podcast! In today's episode, we have an inspiring and candid conversation with Pete Ripmaster. Pete, now a seasoned ultra-endurance athlete, shares his journey from the highs and lows of his athletic pursuits to his personal battles and triumphs. In fact, it all started with a Couch-to-Marathon run, and he kept going from there! We delve into his history, including the incredible feat of winning the 1,000-mile Iditarod Trail Invitational on foot (in February!), his adventures in Alaska, and the lessons learned from pushing beyond the limits. Pete's story is a testament to resilience, passion, and the relentless pursuit of one's dreams.
Pete's philosophy of "stories rather than regrets" is evident in his approach to ultra-running. Whether he's tackling organized races or his unique "homemade 100's," Pete's willingness to suffer and push through mental and physical barriers is key to his success. His adventures showcase the power of perseverance and the rewards of stepping outside your comfort zone.
Join us as we explore:
- Pete's early life and the pivotal moments that shaped his path
- The transition from the couch to a marathoner to an ultra-endurance runner
- The mental and physical challenges of running the Iditarod Trail Invitational
- Pete's "homemade 100's" and what drives him to create his own ultra-endurance challenges
- Insights into the world of ultra-running and the community around it
- Pete's future aspirations and what drives him to keep pushing forward
This episode is packed with raw and heartfelt reflections that will leave you inspired to tackle your own adventures. Don't miss out on this incredible journey with Pete Ripmaster!
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Introduction to Pete Ripmaster and the essence of today's episode
[02:28] Pete's background and his self-identity as a runner, husband, and father
[10:00] Reflections on Pete's childhood and the significant impact of his family
[18:00] The pivotal moment and the transition from a wild lifestyle to purposeful living
[24:05] Pete's first impromptu marathon and the beginning of his running journey
[32:00] The decision to run 50 marathons in 50 states and raise funds for breast cancer research
[38:00] Delving into ultra-running: from 50K to 1,000 miles
[46:00] The challenges and triumphs of the Iditarod Trail Invitational
[53:00] Pete's "homemade 100's" and his drive to create unique endurance challenges
[57:00] The mental game in ultra-endurance sports and pushing through limits
[01:03:00] What's next for Pete after ultra-running
Links & Resources:
- Pete Ripmaster's Website
- Iditarod Trail Invitational
- Owl Research Institute
- Telluride, Colorado
Thank you for tuning into this episode with Pete Ripmaster! If you enjoyed our conversation, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to light. Keep pursuing your great adventures, and we'll catch you in the next episode!
Welcome back to another episode of the On Adventure Podcast, where I dive deep into the extraordinary tales of endurance and personal growth, probing why everyday explorers continue to push their own limits. In this episode, I reconnect with Van Fletcher, a dad, a real estate professional, and, oh yeah, a world class triathlete AND an ultraman competitor.
Van's story isn't just about physical endurance; it's a profound journey of resilience, community, and self-discovery. This episode is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure and thrive, no matter the challenge. Van Fletcher's journey is sure to inspire not just athletes but anyone looking to overcome their personal barriers.
Episode Highlights:
- [00:00] Welcome: I introduce Van Fletcher, my first repeat guest, discussing his recent adventures and astounding achievements in the Ultraman Florida—a race that pushes human limits with its extreme distances.
- [10:12] Trials and Triumphs: Van shares his rigorous experiences and the emotional rollercoaster of participating in high-endurance races, including Ironman events and the mental strategies needed to overcome unexpected obstacles.
- [22:00] Community and Support: The critical role of community in endurance sports. Van emphasizes how his crew's support and camaraderie were pivotal in his successes and overcoming the daunting challenges of Ultraman.
- [35:00] Physical and Mental Resilience: Insights into Van’s training regimen and how overcoming injuries and personal setbacks have shaped his approach to racing and life.
- [45:00] Beyond the Finish Line: Van discusses the broader impact of his racing career on personal growth and his future aspirations in the world of endurance sports.
Links & Resources:
- Ultraman Florida Official Website
- Previous Podcast Episode with Van Fletcher
- Van on Insta
Closing Thoughts: If today’s journey through extreme endurance and personal triumphs inspired you, remember to rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us bring more such inspiring stories. Until next time, keep pushing your limits and exploring your own great adventure!
*Credit Elia Saikaly - Kenton on the Everest summit
In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I sit down with Kenton Cool, a legendary high-altitude climber with an incredible record of Everest ascents and a storied career in mountain exploration. Dive into a conversation that explores not only the physical heights of the world’s most formidable peaks but also the profound depths of personal ambition, resilience, and self-discovery.
Episode Highlights:
- [00:02:22] - Kenton recounts the challenges and thrills of achieving the Everest Triple Crown, offering a vivid glimpse into the life of a high-altitude climber.
- [00:13:00] - Discover Kenton's unique approach to leadership and team-building in extreme conditions, drawing from his extensive experience as a guide and speaker.
- [00:22:13] - Delve into the ethos behind Kenton's climbing philosophy—how passion, mindset, and the power of setting goals propel him forward.
- [00:35:45] - A reflective moment as Kenton shares how his personal life, particularly fatherhood, reshapes his perspectives on adventure and the sacrifices it entails.
- [00:47:28] - Hear about Kenton's transformative experiences with local cultures and communities, enriching his journeys and broadening his world view.
Links & Resources:
- Kenton Cool’s Official Website
- Full story of Kenton's Triple Crown
If you enjoyed this episode, please consider rating and reviewing our show on your favorite podcast platform. Share with friends and fellow enthusiasts who might enjoy diving into the world of all-things adventure! Your support helps us bring more inspiring and enlightening content. Thank you for joining us, and keep seeking your adventures!
In this captivating episode of the On Adventure podcast, host Josh Self interviews Robbie Lenfestey at his remarkable retreat, Mandala Springs, located in the scenic mountains outside Asheville, North Carolina. Robbie, a man of profound wisdom and thrilling life experiences, shares his extraordinary adventures that have taken him from being kidnapped in Argentina to climbing the towering peaks of Aconcagua and encountering the renowned breath expert, Wim Hof.
The conversation opens with Robbie recounting his unexpected yet transformative journey through Argentina, where a planned permaculture internship turned into a gripping survival scenario involving a 10-day cattle drive gone awry. Robbie's vivid storytelling transports listeners to the rugged wilderness of Patagonia, where he faced extreme weather, navigated cultural challenges, and ultimately had to escape from a dangerous situation instigated by an eccentric and irresponsible billionaire. This adventure culminated in Robbie, driven by necessity and fueled by his indomitable spirit, becoming one of the youngest people to solo climb Aconcagua, facing not only physical extremes but also profound personal realizations about his limits and capabilities.
The episode peels back the layers of Robbie's adventurous spirit, exploring how his early life challenges and unconventional childhood experiences primed him for a life filled with exploration and self-discovery. From tales of his harrowing experiences in the wild to his philosophical insights on overcoming personal traumas and societal expectations, Robbie offers an introspective look into how embracing the unknown has profoundly shaped his understanding of himself and his approach to life.
Listeners are treated to a journey that is as introspective as it is exhilarating, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in how extreme experiences can lead to profound wisdom and personal growth.
Episode Timeline * [00:01:00] - Robbie's gripping journey from kidnappings in Argentina to climbing Aconcagua and meeting Wim Hof. * [00:15:00] - Delving into Robbie's childhood, exploring the formative experiences that shaped his adventurous spirit. * [00:30:00] - Robbie reflects on his emotional and spiritual growth, triggered by his battles with illness and societal expectations. * [00:45:00] - Insights into Robbie's perspective on personal growth through extreme challenges. * [01:05:00] - A detailed recount of Robbie's near-death experiences and their transformative impacts on his life philosophy. * [01:25:00] - Robbie discusses the profound lessons learned from living closely with nature and the importance of ecological awareness.
Links & Resources * Mandala Springs: Discover more about the magical retreat discussed in this episode. Mandala Springs Website * Aconcagua Adventures: Learn more about the mountain that marked a pivotal moment in Robbie's life. Aconcagua Official Site * Wim Hof Method: Explore the breathing techniques and philosophy taught by Wim Hof that Robbie encountered. Wim Hof Method Official Site
Closing Remarks If you found today's episode enlightening, don’t forget to rate, follow, and share On Adventure to help us bring more thrilling tales and profound insights to you. And if Robbie’s story inspired you, consider leaving a review to help others discover the podcast. Happy adventuring!
I didn't know these fellas before our chat, but by the end it was clear we all come from the same tribe. In the latest episode of the On Adventure Podcast, we dove into a wild group conversation that ventured beyond the beaten path. Joined by Adam Hill, Shaun Pope, Ryan James, and Mark Looney, the dialogue unfolded amidst the rustic charm of Black Mountain, North Carolina, a sanctuary for those who chase the thrill of outdoor adventures.
This episode isn't just about pushing limits; it's a celebration of the spirit that drives us to explore the unknown, to embrace the rugged beauty of nature, and to confront the challenges that lie in the wild. It's a narrative of friendship, endurance, and the unyielding quest for adventure that binds a community together.
Episode Highlights:
- [00:01:15] Adam Hill: From Memphis to the mountains, Adam’s journey from an urban landscape to the vastness of nature where he discovered his passion for outdoor adventures.
- [00:08:14] Shaun Pope: The transformation from a sports enthusiast to an ultramarathon runner, Shaun shares his evolution and the familial influence that propelled him into the world of trail running.
- [00:14:29] Mark Looney: Reflecting on his youth in New York, Mark recounts how blizzards and Boy Scouts sparked his adventurous spirit, leading to cross-country cycling and a lifetime of exploration.
- [00:22:10] Ryan James: A story of growth from the flat terrains of Savannah to the challenges of ultra running, Ryan speaks on the allure of the mountains and the transformative power of pushing beyond one's limits.
Links & Resources:
- Mountain Running Company: A hub for trail running enthusiasts, founded by one of our own, Shaun Pope.
- Running the Dirty South: Check out Ryan's site to promote some of the greatest trails and races on the Beast Coast!
- AT (Appalachian Trail) Community: For those inspired by Adam’s and Ryan’s tales, delve into the world of AT hikers and learn more about this iconic trail.
- Adventure Cycling Association: Explore Mark’s passion for cycling and find resources for your next biking adventure.
Closing Thoughts:
As we wind down this episode, I'm sure you will carry the stories of Adam, Shaun, Ryan, and Mark with you as I have since this was recorded. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or someone looking to step outside your comfort zone, remember, it’s not just about the distance covered or the mountains conquered; it’s about the journey, the camaraderie, and the endless pursuit of what lies beyond the horizon.
If this episode has ignited a spark within you, or if you’ve found solace in the shared experiences of our guests, consider supporting us. Rate, follow, share, and review On Adventure Podcast. Let's keep the spirit of adventure alive together.
In today's episode of the On Adventure Podcast, we took a deep dive into the great outdoors with the remarkable Heidi Nisbet. Heidi is a friend of a friend, but by the end of the conversation, I felt like we had known each other forever. We gravitate toward a similar tribe. As someone who shares my passion for the Appalachian Trail, Heidi brought a fresh perspective on merging art, adventure, and personal growth through her experiences on and off the trail. From her transformative journey of self-discovery to integrating her love for nature with her artistic talent, this episode is packed with insights that outdoor enthusiasts and creatives alike won't want to miss. And by the way, you HAVE to check out her work...link is below!
Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] - A Creative Soul Finds Her Trail: Discover how Heidi, originally not considering herself an outdoors person, embraced her creative spirit and love for the Appalachian Trail, transforming her life in unexpected ways.
[00:02:27] - The Art of Nature: Learn about Heidi's unique approach to combining her artistic talent with her passion for hiking, leading to a fulfilling career that blurs the lines between work and play.
[00:10:00] - Art, Identity, and the Great Outdoors: Heidi shares her journey from childhood creativity through academic challenges to finding her identity on the trail and in her art, highlighting the intrinsic connection between nature and creativity.
[00:15:00] - Making Adventure Sustainable: Insights into how Heidi has crafted a life that allows her to pursue her passions while making a living, including guiding hikes and teaching art in the wilderness.
[00:20:00] - Favorite Trails and Future Plans: Heidi reveals her favorite sections of the Appalachian Trail and discusses future hiking and artistic projects, offering a glimpse into her adventurous and creative future.
[00:30:00] - The Transformational Power of Hiking: A reflection on how hiking the Appalachian Trail served as a catalyst for personal growth, challenging Heidi to rethink her capabilities and aspirations.
[00:45:00] - Blazing New Trails with Art: An exploration of Heidi's upcoming projects, including a special hiking and painting collaboration that promises to bring her passions to new heights.
Links & Resources: * Appalachian Trail: www.appalachiantrail.org * Sketching Summits: www.sketchingsummits.com for Heidi's art and adventure stories.
As we close today's episode, I'm reminded of the limitless potential that lies in combining our passions with our professions. Heidi's story is a testament to the power of following one's heart and the beauty of the paths it can lead us down.
If you enjoyed this episode, please remember to rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories like Heidi's to you. See you on the next adventure!
In today's episode, we embark on a deeply personal journey with Tim Matthews, a seasoned adventurer and outdoor enthusiast who just happens to be a retired Navy one-star Admiral. In this conversation, Tim shares his profound insights and experience, both personal and professional, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of outdoor pursuits in shaping his life. From heart-pounding rock climbing expeditions to soul-soothing solo backpacking trips, Tim reveals how each adventure has left an indelible mark on his spirit. I find this incredibly inspiring.
As we navigate the conversation, you will hear how Tim has learned more about himself amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. From the exhilaration of summiting towering peaks to the quiet contemplation of remote wilderness trails, Tim shares his lessons learned and the deep connections forged with the natural world.
Ultimately, through detailing his outdoor experiences, Tim uncovers the threads that weave together resilience, growth, and the unyielding spirit of adventure. I am certain that you will be encouraged to embrace their own call to the wild, which is an awesome call.
Enjoy my conversation with Tim Matthews.
I can't say that I have spent enough time in a bike saddle to consider the merits of cycle touring. In fact, until I met my next guest, I really didn't understand cycle touring at all. Rick Steeves has it down to a science, though. What started as a time-filler during a gap year in college eventually turned in to a life long pursuit of adventure on two wheels.
Rick is a veteran of cycle touring, cycling through 35 countries on almost 18 different trips since 1989. In fact, he retired from his IT job in 2015 to put wheels down on a 6000km journey from Istanbul to Ireland (and yes, there is a ferry involved). We discuss many details of this epic trip, but also spend a lot of time talking about the dozens of other trips he has done around the world, mostly in Europe but also the US and New Zealand. But he keeps being pulled back to Europe to fill in the gaps on his trekking map.
Rick is a wealth of knowledge and experience, and gives freely of what he knows. You can find him, his blog and his book at his website irelandbybicycle.com. His website has a ton of information about how you can see the world from a different vantage point. Check it out!
Love these podcast conversations, but this one came home a little closer. This conversation is with my friend and business partner, Mike Perkins. Mike knows everyone. He has lived his life wide open, and has lots of stories about lots of different people because of it. He also has a huge heart. So the combo of being outgoing and a bleeding heart, it is obvious why people love to be around him.
Adventure looks different for everyone. For Mike, it has been leaning in to whatever the next challenge was whether it be music, soccer, drafted in to the military or starting his own CPA firm. He marches to the beat of his own drum, but that is what makes his stories and his adventures so unique. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Mike Perkins.
It is a treat to be surprised to learn something amazing and interesting about someone you have known for a long time. My hour or so conversation with Thom Asta fits this description perfectly. I have known Thom for going on 20 years but the things we discussed blew me away and gave me a new level of respect for a man that I had a ton for already.
This podcast is about how and why the Everyday Explorer continues to find, and then expand, his or her limits. But it is not just about the adrenaline story. I want to know what they learn through the challenge of adventure, and how it changes them moving forward. Thom points out that sometimes this exploration is intentional, but sometimes it is not. And these surprise challenges usually are the most difficult, most dangerous and full of 'gold' if one should make it through.
Be sure to stick with this to the end as his story reaches a peak event that he never saw coming, and the gratitude and vibrancy for life that was the gift he received on the other side. I was on the edge of my seat and left searching for words by the end. I know you are going to love Thom Asta!
We are getting the second season of the On Adventure podcast off to a bang with my first conversation. Adventure can come at all ages, and I know my next guest knows this very well. Because he is my son, Eli. Eli is in his second year at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. During the holiday break, we got to sit down for a couple hours and pretend that I am not dad but a professional interviewer. And man, was it fun.
Eli is wise beyond his years, but you'll find out why...it doesn't come for free. Eli lives big, loves big, and adventures big. You'll hear exactly what this means to him as a 19 year old, where his love of the outdoors comes from, and what he hopes all of this means for his future self. To say I'm proud of him is beyond an extreme understatement, and that has nothing to do with the things that he has accomplished in his 19 years (and the list is very long). I am proud of him for who he is.
Enjoy my conversation with Eli Self.
I love all of these conversations, but I am particularly fond of this one because I have known Rachel for many years. I have watched her grow and mature in to the Everyday Explorer she has become, which has been fun. Rachel is an old soul. She has insight in to people, places and experiences that are unusual for someone her age. Some of this comes natural, some of it is from being with people on their worst days as a trauma nurse in a variety of different emergency rooms around the country. You don't experience those kinds of things and come away the same.
The conversation isn't all dark and gloomy though. This is the dark backdrop that highlights the brilliant light that she has experience in people she has met around the globe. Her stories of teaching English in Spain and traveling Eastern Europe on her own (ON HER OWN!) are beautiful and inspiring to believe in the goodness of others.
I am sure you will enjoy my conversation with Rachel Coghlan, and be inspired in your own great adventure!
Not many of us have spent near as much time below the Earth's surface as Dr. Ken Walsh has. Ken is a Senior Environmental Engineer at Leidos Inc., but that is not who he is. Ken is an Everyday Explorer at hear. He started his love of exploration under ground early in his life, and it has taken him deeper and deeper in to exploring the beauty that exists above and below ground. It also has been a mode for him to explore the reaches of his own limits.
We weave our way through a wide ranging conversation that will expose Ken's intelligence, creativity and natural curiosity, all of which are used by him to find wonder and awe no matter where he finds himself.
The Peace of Wild Things
When despair for the world grows in me
and I wake in the night at the least sound
in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be,
I go and lie down where the wood drake
rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.
I come into the peace of wild things
who do not tax their lives with forethought
of grief. I come into the presence of still water.
And I feel above me the day-blind stars
waiting with their light. For a time
I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.
by Wendell Berry
It is appropriate to start this episode description with a poem from Wendell Berry. I love this poem. I can hear the quiet sounds of the outside just reading it. And I was introduced to this poem and to Wendell Berry by Daniel Alexander. Daniel is my guest this week, and you will find out that he is a bit of a poet himself.
I really enjoyed this conversation because I got to catch up with an old friend, but also hear about what it is about an outdoor space that opens his soul. This is a different kind of adventure conversation, I know you'll be inspired. We explore many different angles of the human experience and what we are all made for. One great take away I got from Daniel is that Comfort + Comparison = a Crushing of our souls. And the flip side of that same coin is that if we embrace the suffering in our lives, it can lead us to a place where our souls truly come alive. It's an inverse universe.
Be sure to listen to the end for his book recommendations. Daniel has always been spot on when it comes to a good read, and these are now on my reading list. And if you want to join Daniel for any part of his Mountain to Sea Trail adventure, you can reach him at danielhalexander@gmail.com or on Twitter at @dalexander_1.
What do you get when you pursue adventure in your life with abandon to push to the edge of growth? Rob Angst knows....peace. This is such a cool conversation. Rob has through hiked the Appalachian Trail (AT), the Pacific Coast Trail (PCT) and spent many other long days and weeks on adventure in other spaces around the world. His accomplishments are beyond impressive, but I think I learned more hearing about the one trail that he has not been able to conquer while pursuing the Triple Crown (AT, PCT, CDT), the Continental Divide Trail (CDT).
Rob has an ability to brutally assess what he wants and needs, both when he is ready to start a new adventure as well as when it is time to pull the plug. He has a high ability to constantly answer the question of 'Why'. He has chased different adventures by being present in whatever space he's in and experiencing life through all the senses. He has a constant pursuit to expand himself and stretch his pre-concieved limits.
This conversation challenged me in all the good ways. Rob is a bit more explict with his words than my previous guests, so consider yourself warned, but I think it is completely fitting as he describes the rough edges of how life really works. It's never pretty and it's never clean but man, what a journey.
My guest today is Eric Clarke. Eric might be best known in business world as CEO at Orion Advisor Services. But Eric also embodies the idea of the Everyday Explorer as well! He is a man of many talents as you will find out, but exudes widsom and humility with each word. What became clear to me is that Eric is made for doing hard things. He has built a mantra around doing the 'easy things' first (like running the first 18 miles of a marathon) so that he can get to work on the 'hard things' (such as the final 8 miles). The hard things are where we learn most about ourselves. You will learn how he plans his adventures and expects the inevitable pain cave that comes when one reaches for the limits of what is possible.
There is much to this conversation, and even if you have known Eric for a while, there are still gold nuggets in this conversation to pull from his experiences. From the Grand Canyon to the Napali coast of Kauai to the Four Pass loop around the Maroon Bells in Colorado, Eric's stories will hopefully inspire you to pursue your own great adventure!
Folks, this is a cool conversation. There is always something interesting to me about capturing wisdom and experiences from an elder. It seems to be missing in our suburban spread, face paced, instant gratification culture, but I think we all desire to hear it at some level. My conversation today with Connie Grant fits right into this. Now at 91 years old, Connie has some great stories about adventures she has pursued during her lifetime. From the Grand Canyon to the Tetons to Glacier National Park, she has a story.
But one of her best nuggets was that it is never too late to pursue a new adventure, no matter your age. She even discusses what are the next things for her as she continues to evolve and pursues new interests in her life. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Connie Grant.
What do you do when your favorite uncle dies suddenly and leaves you 3 different businesses to run? You move to the Caribbean, of course! Lynne Culbreth is my guest today, and she has a pretty cool story of how to follow serendipity in life to find the next adventure. I am not going to give up too much of the story, so you will just have to listen, but lets just say that the Covid time period had many different challenges for Lynne that she never could have planned for.
You will also find out that she runs a dive business, a retail shop and a small hotel as well! You are going to want to check out the Carib Inn here. The pictures are amazing, but perhaps it could be your next Caribbean destination. You can also find Lynne and the Carib Inn on Facebook and Instagram.
The On Adventure Podcast is about the Everyday Explorer and how she plans and pursues adventure in her life. The pursuit is never easy, but the valuable lessons from the journey are always priceless. And you don't get them without the suffering. So how do we push through our perceived limits to get to the treasure? Well, mindset plays a key role.
The conversation today with Jenny Richardson is full of lessons from the suffering. Jenny is a mom to kids, a wife, a pastor, a friend to anyone who is in need...and oh yeah, she is an Ironwoman with multiple full distance Ironman triathlons under her belt. You will learn how she trains to get through the first half of the race, and then prays her way through the second half. You will also hear how she is relentless in breaking through the hurdles in her way, no matter if it is illness, time limitations or even being hit by a drunk driver.
So without further ado, enjoy the conversation with Jenny Richardson.
What do you do when reach to edge of your mental capacity? According to Steve Sanduski, you take one more step. And then you take one more step after that. Eventually, your body proves to your brain that there is more left in the tank in pursuit of the summit (literal or methaphorical).
Steve has been a very important mentor for me so I really hung on every word to hear what he learned from his experiences. Steve is an accomplished author, podcaster, entreprenuer and outdoorsman. He has accomplished much because of his ability to dream, plan, focus and execute on the things that are most important to him. You will learn at ton from listening to this conversation for your own journey, so pay attention.
You can connect with Steve on his website or find his Twitter handle @SteveSanduski.
The Everyday Explorer comes in all shapes, sizes, ages and background. JW Eades is one of those characters. Who would have thought that a boy from rural North Carolina would end up hiking Mount Kilimanjaro or become an expert skiier traversing some of the most extreme slopes in the United States? JW certainly did not. So how does a country boy turn himself in to an international man of mystery? By paying attention and saying an immediate Yes without fear to adventures as they presented themselves throughout his life.
At 80 years old, JW can now look back and philosophize on how and why he built these exploits in to his life experience. This conversation barely touches the tip of the iceberg with all of the things he has accomplished, but I especially loved his take aways about what he learned by touching different parts of the globe. Sit back and enjoy a conversation with The Most Interesting Man in the World.
Explore, Learn and Transcend...guiding values that Hannah Thornton has etched on herself as a constant reminder of how to live. There is wisdom from experience in this conversation so pay attention. Hannah has packed her 30 years as she explores the far reaches of the globe. I am both inspired by this conversation and in awe at her drive to continue exploring.
But her global explorations are simulatneously self explorations, and Hannah is very open and honest about what she hopes to find in herself as she pushes to the literal ends of the earth. What can one find by cave diving to an ancient sacrificial alter in South America or running with a stampede of reindeer in Alaska? Only interesting things, I promise. I hope you enjoy the conversation...this was a fun one.
Welcome back to the On Adventure Podcast. So Van Fletcher...Van is one of the smartest, most focused and reslilient person I have ever met. Like my last guest, Van and I go way back but he told me things in today's conversation that I had never heard. If you have ever met Van, you know he is a legend and a force of nature. This is obvious. What is not so obvious is the intense suffering that he has indured...not just once, not even twice, but multiple times. But Van hasn't wasted his suffering. He keeps getting up and taking the next step. In fact, I think it is part of his super powers.
You are in for a real treat today. You can find Van in Instagram here or his company page here.
Welcome to the first edition of the On Adventure Podcast with Josh Self. I'm joined today by Brew Davis. Brew and I have known each other for many years, and I have watched from a distance the last two decades as he and his wife, Jen, have built their lives around adventure. He's the perfect guest to launch the podcast with. I think you're going to love this.
Brew is also a fantastic musician and story teller, and has serveral published albums to his name. Enjoy the conversation, and then make your way to his website here and download some great tunes.
Welcome to the On Adventure podcast where we interview the Everyday Explorer. Buckle up and enjoy the ride as we go On Adventure.