Kokoda Track: Recent Episodes
Glenn Azar
An insight into the lessons learnt from people that have trekked the Kokoda Track in PNG. We will interview trek leaders, local PNG villagers and trekkers who have undertaken the arduous 96km jungle trek.
Imagine walking through the dense jungle, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the weight of history. This episode of the Kokoda Track podcast takes you on a journey with two friends, Kirsty and Chris, as they share their experiences trekking the Kokoda Track. From their training regimens to the emotional highs and lows of the journey, they open up about what it takes to conquer this challenging terrain.
As they reflect on their experience, Kirsty and Chris talk about the emotional aspects of the journey, including the sense of pride and accomplishment they felt when they completed the track. They also discuss the importance of being open and vulnerable with others, sharing their stories and experiences in a way that helped them connect with their fellow trekkers.
If you're considering tackling the Kokoda Track, this episode is a must-listen. Kirsty and Chris offer valuable insights and advice on what to expect and how to prepare. Join them as they share their story and inspire you to take on your own challenges. Listen to their full conversation to hear more about their journey and the lessons they learned along the way.
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Should you take your child to Kokoda?It's one of the questions I'm asked most often. In this episode, I share why I firmly believe Kokoda can be one of the most transformative experiences for young people aged 11–17, provided they're well prepared and supported by experienced leaders. We explore the physical, mental and emotional benefits, what parents should consider before booking, and why challenge—not comfort—is often the greatest gift we can give our children. From resilience and confidence to leadership, gratitude and history, Kokoda has lessons that can shape a young person's life forever.
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Emotional Journeys and Leadership Lessons from the Kokoda Track
This episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast is a poignant and thought-provoking conversation between two experienced trek leaders, Glenn and Fiona, who share their personal stories and insights on the emotional and physical challenges of trekking the Kokoda Track. The episode is a tribute to the last surviving Australian veteran of the Kokoda Campaign, Reginald James Chard, who passed away at the age of 102.
Glenn and Fiona discuss their own experiences trekking the Kokoda Track, including their first encounters with the challenging terrain and the emotional connections they formed with the people and the land. They also delve into the importance of leadership and the need for trek leaders to be trained in how to handle difficult situations, including medical emergencies and conflicts with group members. Fiona shares her own experience of losing a trekker on a previous trip and how it affected her, while Glenn talks about his experience of dealing with a difficult situation on a recent trip.
Throughout the episode, Glenn and Fiona emphasize the importance of gratitude, self-reflection, and community building on the Kokoda Track. They also discuss the need for trek leaders to be aware of their own limitations and to prioritize the well-being of their group members. The conversation is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of the Kokoda Track experience and the lessons that can be learned from it.
If you're considering trekking the Kokoda Track or are simply interested in the stories and experiences of those who have done so, this episode is a must-listen. Join Glenn and Fiona as they share their insights and reflections on the Kokoda Track and the people who have been touched by it.
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The Only Woman at Bomana
Among more than 3,800 Commonwealth war graves at Bomana War Cemetery lies a single woman—RAAF nurse Sister Marie Eileen Craig.
In this episode, we honour her remarkable life and reflect on a powerful truth: not every casualty of war dies in battle. Some give their lives serving humanity, caring for the wounded and bringing hope to others.
Join Glenn as he shares the story of the only woman buried at Bomana, explores the vital role of military nurses during World War II, and reminds us that courage isn't always found on the front line—sometimes it's found in compassion.
A moving tribute to a remarkable Australian whose service and sacrifice deserve to be remembered.
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The Kokoda Track Podcast is back with another inspiring story from the track. This time, we're joined by Tim, a farmer from Victoria who's just completed the grueling 96-kilometer journey. As he shares his experiences, you'll hear about the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and the moments that made this journey truly unforgettable.
In this episode, Tim opens up about his training leading up to the trek, including the unique way he prepared for the infamous Imita Ridge aka 'Massey Ferguson' hill. He also talks about the importance of aerobic training and how it was his biggest weakness. You'll hear about the incredible bond he formed with the porters and the locals, and how this experience has left a lasting impact on him.
As Tim recounts his journey, you'll be transported to the beautiful landscapes of Papua New Guinea and the rugged terrain of the Kokoda Track. He shares stories about the toughest hill on the track, the infamous Imita Ridge, and how he overcame the challenges that came with it. You'll also hear about the unexpected surprises he encountered along the way, including the controversy surrounding trekking poles.
If you're planning to tackle the Kokoda Track or have a passion for its history and culture, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as Tim shares his honest and inspiring account of this incredible journey, and discover what makes the Kokoda Track experience so unforgettable.
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In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores one of the most valuable pieces of equipment you can take on the Kokoda Track—trekking poles.
Drawing on over 100 crossings of Kokoda, Glenn explains the latest biomechanics research, why trekking poles are most effective on steep descents, how they can improve balance and reduce fatigue, and the common mistakes trekkers make when using them. Whether you're preparing for your first crossing or looking to make your next trek more comfortable and efficient, this practical episode will help you decide whether trekking poles deserve a place in your pack.
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Thinking about walking the Kokoda Track?
After more than 100 crossings, Glenn Azar shares the 10 biggest mistakes he sees trekkers make before they arrive in Papua New Guinea—and, more importantly, how to avoid them.
From training mistakes and gear choices to mindset, foot care and cultural respect, this episode is packed with practical advice that will help you prepare for one of the world’s most rewarding adventures.
Whether your trek is six months away or you’ve only just started thinking about Kokoda, these lessons could make the difference between simply finishing the Track and truly experiencing it.
In this episode:
- The biggest fitness myth about Kokoda
- Why new boots are a bad idea
- The importance of downhill training
- How to prepare mentally for the challenge
- Why respecting PNG culture is part of the journey
- The simple mindset that helps trekkers thrive
If you’re planning your own Kokoda adventure, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
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As the sun rises over the Kokoda Track, a sense of pride and respect fills the air. This week on the Kokoda Track Podcast, we're joined by Leah, an environmental scientist who's just completed the grueling 96-kilometer trek. With a group of diverse individuals, including doctors, farmers, and teenagers, Leah shares her inspiring story of perseverance and camaraderie.
Leah's experience on the track was a mix of challenges and triumphs. She talks about the physical and mental demands of the trek, from the steep descents and wet conditions to the emotional moments of reflection and remembrance. With a background in environmental science, Leah was well-prepared for the physical aspects of the trek, but she still found herself questioning her abilities at times. Her training regimen included strength workouts and pack walking, but she admits that she could have done more to prepare herself.
One of the highlights of Leah's experience was the sense of community and support among the group members. Despite being the only female in the group, she felt welcomed and included, and she praises the group's dynamic and the friendships that formed along the way. She also shares her thoughts on the importance of training and preparation, emphasizing the need to be realistic about one's abilities and to take the trek seriously.
If you're considering tackling the Kokoda Track, or if you're already booked on, Leah's story is a must-listen. She offers valuable advice and insights for those who are still training, and her experiences will resonate with anyone who's ever pushed themselves to the limit. Join us as Leah shares her story and inspires us to take on new challenges with courage and determination.
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Most people think Kokoda is just a trek through the jungles of Papua New Guinea.
They’re wrong.
After more than 100 crossings of the Kokoda Track, Glenn Azar has come to believe there are actually three different Kokodas that every trekker experiences.
The first is the history. The incredible story of the 1942 campaign and the courage of the young Australians and Papua New Guineans who fought and served there.
The second is the physical challenge. The relentless climbs, steep descents, humidity and exhaustion that test every person who steps onto the Track.
But it’s the third Kokoda that surprises almost everyone. The personal journey. The conversations you have with yourself when the distractions of everyday life disappear. The perspective you gain. The confidence you build. The person you become.
Whether you’re planning your first trek or simply fascinated by Kokoda’s enduring legacy, this episode explores why the Track changes people in ways they never expect.
In This Episode
- Why there isn’t just one Kokoda
- Understanding the historical significance of the Kokoda Campaign
- Why physical preparation is important—but only part of the journey
- The unexpected personal transformation that happens on the Track
- How challenge, purpose and simplicity combine to create lasting change
- Why no two people ever experience Kokoda in the same way
Key Takeaway
You may come to Kokoda for the history.
You’ll prepare for the physical challenge.
But you’ll remember the personal journey.
Quote from the Episode
“Everyone walks the same Track. But everyone walks a different Kokoda.”
Thinking About Walking Kokoda?
If Kokoda has been on your bucket list, we’d love to help you experience it the right way.
For more than 20 years, Adventure Professionals has been leading Australians across the Kokoda Track with experienced Australian leaders, an exceptional Papua New Guinean team, and a commitment to honouring both the history and the people who call the Track home.
Find out more about upcoming treks at www.adventureprofessionals.com.au.
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Follow Glenn Azar for more stories, leadership lessons and adventure inspiration:
- Building Better Humans Project
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If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who has Kokoda on their bucket list. It helps us continue sharing the stories, history and life lessons from one of the world’s most remarkable journeys.
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What Happens When Kokoda Doesn't Go To Plan? A Conversation with Angela
In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, I sit down with Angela to discuss a Kokoda experience that didn't quite go the way she expected.
Like many trekkers, Angela arrived on the Track excited, prepared and ready for what she thought would be one of the most rewarding adventures of her life. Instead, she found herself navigating a series of unexpected challenges that tested her physically, mentally and emotionally.
Together, we unpack her experience, exploring the lessons she learned about preparation, communication, leadership and the importance of asking the right questions before committing to a trek.
Angela speaks openly and honestly about what went wrong, from misunderstandings around food and trek logistics through to concerns about leadership, flexibility and support on the Track. She also shares how her own determination, expectations and preparation played a role in shaping the experience.
This isn't an episode about criticising people or organisations. It's about learning. Kokoda is one of the most challenging personal development experiences on earth, and sometimes the greatest lessons come from the things that don't go according to plan.
Whether you're considering your first Kokoda trek, preparing for an upcoming crossing, or simply interested in hearing a real and honest account from someone who has walked the Track, Angela's story offers valuable insights that could help you have a better experience yourself.
If there's one thing this conversation highlights, it's that preparation goes beyond fitness. Understanding the operator you're travelling with, the leadership you'll be relying on and the expectations on both sides can make all the difference.
Join us for a candid conversation about resilience, adaptability and the lessons that can only be learned when things don't go exactly as planned.
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Episode Show Notes
This week's episode is a special one for me.
I'm joined by my good mate Michael, who has just completed his second crossing of the Kokoda Track with me. What makes this achievement even more impressive is that Michael first crossed Kokoda 22 years ago at the age of 40, and has now returned at 62 years of age to tackle the challenge once again. This time he brought his son along, alongside a group of mates, colleagues, and their sons, creating an experience that spanned generations.
Throughout our conversation, we reflect on the lessons Kokoda continues to teach, not just about resilience and perseverance, but about leadership, teamwork, and personal growth.
Michael is the owner and leader of a highly successful business employing around 700 people, so I was particularly interested in hearing his thoughts on leadership in the jungle and how those lessons compare to leadership in the corporate world. We discuss the difference between leadership and management, the importance of clear communication, setting expectations, and creating an environment where people can thrive without being overled.
We also explore the unique challenge of returning to Kokoda more than two decades later. Michael shares how his mindset, leadership style, and perspective on hardship have evolved over time, and why stepping outside your comfort zone remains one of the most powerful ways to grow, regardless of your age.
One of my favourite parts of the conversation centres around the idea that great leaders don't always need to have all the answers. Sometimes leadership is about staying calm under pressure, trusting your team, and allowing others to have their own experiences rather than trying to control every outcome.
Whether you're considering your own Kokoda adventure, leading a team, running a business, raising a family, or simply looking for ways to challenge yourself and grow, I think you'll find plenty of value in this conversation.
I hope you enjoy this honest and insightful discussion with a man who has spent a lifetime leading people, learning lessons, and continuing to prove that age is no barrier to growth, adventure, and personal development.
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What Happens When Leadership Doesn't Meet the Environment?
This is one of the most important episodes we've ever recorded on The Kokoda Track Podcast.
After receiving numerous messages from listeners, trekkers and trek leaders regarding a recent review posted online, Glenn takes a deep dive into the lessons that can be learned when a Kokoda experience doesn't meet expectations.
This episode is not about naming companies, assigning blame or creating controversy. Instead, it's about examining the role leadership plays in shaping every aspect of a Kokoda trek and why leadership is often the difference between a difficult experience and a rewarding one.
Drawing on over 100 Kokoda crossings, 25+ years leading expeditions around the world and 17 years in the Australian Army, Glenn explores the critical importance of communication, decision-making, duty of care, risk management and emotional control in remote environments.
Whether you're planning your first Kokoda trek, preparing to become a trek leader, or simply interested in leadership under pressure, this episode provides valuable insights into what trekkers should look for, what operators should strive for and how we can all contribute to a stronger and more sustainable future for Kokoda.
In This Episode
- Why Glenn decided to tackle a controversial topic
- The review that sparked the discussion
- Leadership versus experience
- Why communication matters more than most people realise
- Duty of care in remote environments
- Managing uncertainty and expectations on the track
- The concept of being "the calm in the chaos"
- Why feedback should be welcomed, not feared
- Lessons every operator can learn from difficult experiences
- Questions every trekker should ask before booking Kokoda
- How leadership training impacts safety, culture and overall experience
- Raising standards across the Kokoda trekking industry
Key Message
Every challenge on Kokoda gets amplified by poor leadership and minimised by good leadership.
Bullet Point Takeaways
- Kokoda is unpredictable. Strong leadership is what helps people navigate that unpredictability.
- Weather, injuries, delays and difficult conditions are inevitable on Kokoda. How leaders respond to them matters most.
- Communication is one of the most important leadership skills on the track.
- Trekkers don't need perfect conditions, but they do need clear, honest and consistent information.
- Good leaders don't avoid difficult conversations; they lean into them.
- Feedback should be viewed as an opportunity to learn and improve, not as a personal attack.
- Leadership is not about titles; it's about responsibility, decision-making and accountability.
- Experience alone does not create great leaders. Training, mentorship and development do.
- Kokoda exposes weaknesses. Any gaps in communication, planning or leadership will quickly become apparent in the jungle.
- Emotional control is a critical leadership skill. The ability to remain calm under pressure creates confidence in those around you.
- Duty of care should always be a priority when managing people in remote environments.
- Leaders must be prepared to make difficult decisions when safety and wellbeing are at stake.
- Every operator should have systems, processes and contingency plans in place before things go wrong.
- Trekkers have every right to ask detailed questions before committing to a company.
- The quality of leadership can have a significant impact on the overall Kokoda experience.
- A sustainable future for Kokoda relies on operators continually learning, improving and raising standards.
- The focus should always remain on the history, the local people, the trekkers and the future of the track—not individual personalities or egos.
Questions to Ask Before Booking Your Trek
- Who will be leading my trek?
- Will there be a second-in-command?
- What experience and training do they have?
- How are medical emergencies managed?
- What happens if someone requires evacuation?
- How are dietary requirements handled?
- What food is supplied during the trek?
- What support is provided to local PNG carriers?
- What happens if someone struggles physically on the track?
- Do you provide a structured training plan before departure?
- How do you handle feedback and complaints?
Quote of the Episode
"Kokoda doesn't expose your strengths. Kokoda exposes your weaknesses. And nowhere is that more evident than in leadership."
Final Thought
The goal is not perfection.
The goal is continuous improvement.
If we genuinely care about Kokoda, its history, its people and its future, then we must be willing to listen, learn and keep raising the standard for everyone who walks the track.
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In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, I want to talk about something that can make or break your experience on the Track, but doesn't get discussed nearly enough: leadership.
Most people spend a lot of time researching boots, backpacks, training programs and gear. Very few spend enough time thinking about who will actually be leading them through one of the most physically, emotionally and historically significant journeys of their life.
After more than 100 crossings of the Kokoda Track, I've come to believe that great leadership has very little to do with how many times someone has walked the Track and everything to do with how well they understand people.
A great Kokoda leader needs more than experience. They need communication skills, emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, patience and the ability to bring out the best in people when they're tired, uncomfortable and being challenged by the environment around them.
In this episode, I share my thoughts on what makes a great trek leader, how we develop leaders within Adventure Professionals, and why I'm so passionate about investing in training, mentoring and ongoing development. From structured learning and practical experience to understanding the history, culture and people of Papua New Guinea, I believe leadership should never be left to chance.
I also discuss the responsibility we have as leaders to build strong relationships with the local communities, respect cultural traditions and create positive outcomes for everyone involved—not just the trekkers who have paid to be there.
Whether you're planning your first Kokoda trek, have already walked the Track, or you're simply interested in leadership and personal development, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of what good leadership looks like and why it matters so much.
Because on Kokoda, the Track is only part of the journey. The people who lead you through it can shape the experience for a lifetime.
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As the host of the Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn shares a deeply personal and emotional episode, reflecting on his 100th crossing of the infamous Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea. This journey has been a transformative experience that has shaped his life in ways he never could have imagined.
In this episode, Glenn takes a moment to express his gratitude to the people, country, and experiences that have made a lasting impact on him. He acknowledges the incredible team at Adventure Professionals, his business, who have supported him on this journey, and the trekkers who have trusted him with their experiences. Glenn also shares his most memorable moments from the track, including taking his partner, Mili on the track, and his daughter on her first trek as well as guiding single and double leg amputees.
Throughout the episode, Glenn reflects on the lessons he's learned from his experiences on the Kokoda Track. He emphasizes the importance of community, gratitude, and living life to the fullest. He shares his insights on how the track has taught him to appreciate the simple things in life and to never take people or experiences for granted.
If you're looking for inspiration and a deeper understanding of the human spirit, this episode is a must-listen. Glenn's story is a powerful reminder that life is full of unexpected challenges and opportunities for growth.
Join him on this emotional and thought-provoking journey as he shares his experiences and insights from his 100th crossing of the Kokoda Track.
SPECIAL OFFER AT THE END OF THE EPISODE.
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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Dave Tennant, a fit and adventurous bloke who tackled the infamous Kokoda Track last year.
From his initial motivation to join the trek to the lessons he learned along the way, Dave shares his inspiring story. He talks about the group dynamic, the challenges he faced, and the highlights of the trip, including the emotional moment on Brigade Hill.
With a focus on the importance of training, teamwork, and mental preparation, this episode is a must-listen for anyone considering tackling the Kokoda Track.
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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar shares his thoughts on the importance of respecting the history and culture of the Kokoda Track.
He reflects on the debates and arguments that often arise online about the correct way to experience the track, and how this can be a distraction from the true spirit of the place.
Glenn emphasizes the need to prioritize education, respect, and understanding, and to remember that there's no one "right" way to walk the track. He encourages listeners to approach the experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Amanda, a solo traveler who embarked on the challenging Kokoda Track trek.
Amanda shares her inspiring story of perseverance and self-discovery, from her initial nervousness to finding strength in the face of adversity. She talks about the importance of mental preparation, the value of a supportive community, and the life-changing experience of walking the Kokoda Track.
With honesty and vulnerability, Amanda opens up about her fears, doubts, and triumphs, making this episode a must-listen for anyone considering tackling the Kokoda Track or seeking inspiration for their own adventures.
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In this special episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar shares valuable insights and practical tips for trekkers preparing to tackle the Kokoda Track.
As the ANZAC period approaches, Glenn emphasizes the importance of mindset and preparation, encouraging listeners to lean into the challenges ahead. He shares personal anecdotes and expert advice on how to make the most of the experience, from connecting with local people to being present in the moment. Glenn's words of wisdom will help trekkers navigate the physical and emotional demands of the track and create lasting memories.
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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn chats with Mike, a remarkable individual who defied the odds to complete the Kokoda Track despite being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
Mike shares his inspiring story of determination and resilience, from his initial doubts to his incredible achievement. Glenn and Mike discuss the challenges he faced on the track, including the physical and emotional struggles, and how he found support from his group and the local villagers. This conversation is a testament to the human spirit and the power of perseverance.
If you've ever doubted your capacity to complete Kokoda, this episode will inspire you.
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The Kokoda Track doesn’t care about gender — but preparation does.
In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar speaks directly to the women who are preparing to walk Kokoda, or who feel the quiet pull of the Track but want to make sure they’re approaching it the right way.
Drawing on decades of on-ground experience leading women across Kokoda, Glenn shares ten things every woman should know before stepping into the jungle — the practical realities that don’t always make it into generic trekking advice, but make all the difference once you’re out there.
From managing chafing and periods in jungle humidity, to hydration, pack weight, cultural respect, and the emotional depth of Kokoda, this episode is honest, empowering, and grounded in real experience.
This isn’t about limitation.
It’s about confidence, preparation, and walking Kokoda on your terms.
🎧 Inside this episode:
• 10 practical Kokoda tips specifically for women
• How to prepare physically and emotionally
• Why strength isn’t silence on Kokoda
• The importance of cultural respect on the Track
• How preparation turns Kokoda into an empowering experience
📥 Resources mentioned:
• Full blog: Women on the Kokoda Track
• Free download: *Helpful Hints for Women on Kokoda
This podcast proudly brought to you buy ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALS.*
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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Graham Murphy, a 59-year-old truck driver who's just completed the grueling Kokoda Track. Graham shares his inspiring story of perseverance, from being told by his doctor he wouldn't make it to his 40th birthday due to his health, to training on the road and overcoming numerous setbacks, including COVID-19 and track closures. He opens up about his mental and physical challenges, the importance of having a porter, and the life-changing experience of completing the track.
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Tok Pisin on Kokoda: Language as RespectLanguage is one of the simplest — and most powerful — ways to show respect on the Kokoda Track. In this first episode of the Cultural Series on The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores Tok Pisin, one of Papua New Guinea’s main languages, and explains why learning just a few basic phrases can completely change how trekkers are received along the Track. This episode goes beyond memorising words. It explains why Tok Pisin is not “broken English,” why effort matters more than perfect pronunciation, and how language signals humility, awareness, and respect in village environments. Drawing on years of experience on the Track and cultural insight gained through family connection, this episode sets the foundation for how trekkers should think about communication, behaviour, and respect on Kokoda. This is an essential listen for anyone preparing to walk the Track — and a reminder that Kokoda is not just a physical journey, but a human one.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- What Tok Pisin is and why it matters on Kokoda
- Essential greetings and phrases every trekker should know
- Why greetings and goodbyes are culturally important
- How language changes interactions in villages
- The difference between effort and performance when using Tok Pisin
- Why respect on Kokoda often begins with simple words
This episode forms the foundation of an ongoing cultural series woven throughout the podcast. In the next cultural episode, we’ll explore village etiquette on Kokoda — including behaviour, boundaries, photography, and how trekkers are remembered long after they leave.
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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Kevin, a dad who trekked the Kokoda Track with his adult kids and their partners. Kevin shares his unique perspective on the experience, highlighting the importance of family bonding and the challenges of tackling the grueling 96-kilometer trek. He opens up about his own personal growth, the impact of the journey on his kids, and the lessons learned along the way. From the physical and mental demands of the track to the emotional highs and lows, Kevin's story is a must-listen for anyone considering the Kokoda Track adventure.
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Porters, Ethics, and Responsibility on Kokoda
Porters are the backbone of every Kokoda trek — yet their role is often misunderstood or overlooked. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores the ethical responsibilities that come with trekking Kokoda and explains why porter welfare, respect, and partnership matter far more than convenience. Drawing on decades of on-Track experience, Glenn unpacks the power dynamics at play, the difference between ethical and exploitative systems, and the role trekkers themselves play in shaping the culture of Kokoda trekking. This episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to walk Kokoda with integrity.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- The real role porters play on the Kokoda Track
- Why ethical responsibility matters in trekking
- What good porter systems actually look like
- How trekkers contribute to respectful culture
- Why leadership is revealed under load
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda history, Papua New Guinea culture, and the realities of trekking the Track with respect and purpose.
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Fitness for Kokoda: What Actually MattersFitness is one of the biggest concerns people have before trekking Kokoda — and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar breaks down what kind of fitness Kokoda actually demands, drawing on more than 90 crossings of the Track and years of preparing people for the journey. Rather than focusing on speed or aesthetics, this episode explains why leg endurance, load tolerance, pacing, and consistency matter far more than peak fitness, and why mental fitness plays such a critical role in success on Kokoda. If you’re training for Kokoda — or wondering whether you’re capable — this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and practical insight into how to prepare properly.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Why Kokoda rewards durability over speed
- The difference between fitness and preparedness
- Why leg conditioning matters more than cardio alone
- How load and pacing affect fatigue
- What successful Kokoda trekkers have in common
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Kokoda history, Papua New Guinea culture, and the realities of trekking the Track with respect and preparation.
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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Cameron, a young man who trekked the Kokoda Track with his mum. They dive into Cameron's experiences, sharing stories of his mum's determination and his own growth. From the physical challenges of the trek to the emotional connections made along the way, this conversation explores what it means to push through adversity and find strength in community. With a mix of humor and heart, Cameron opens up about his journey and the lessons he's learned from his mum's example.
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Village Life Along the Track: What Trekkers Often MisreadThe Kokoda Track is not an empty wilderness — it is a living corridor of villages, families, and communities. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores village life along the Kokoda Track and unpacks the common misunderstandings trekkers bring with them when passing through these communities. Drawing on decades of experience and more than 90 crossings, Glenn explains why simplicity does not equal ease, why hospitality is rooted in relationship rather than abundance, and how small actions from trekking groups can have a lasting impact — positive or negative. This episode is an essential listen for anyone who wants to walk Kokoda with respect, humility, and awareness.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- What daily life in Kokoda Track villages actually looks like
- Why trekkers often misinterpret village culture
- How Wantok shapes community life
- The importance of respect, permission, and behaviour in villages
- Why responsible trekking operators matter
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Kokoda history, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Track.
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Why Kokoda Changes Some People (and Not Others)Two people can walk the same Kokoda Track — and come away with very different experiences. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores why Kokoda has a profound, lasting impact on some people, while leaving others largely unchanged. Drawing on decades of experience and more than 90 crossings, this episode examines the role of mindset, ego, curiosity, attention, and reflection — and explains why hardship alone does not guarantee growth. This is a deeply reflective episode for anyone considering Kokoda, or anyone interested in why some challenges change us, while others simply pass us by.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Why hardship doesn’t automatically create transformation
- The role of mindset and openness on Kokoda
- How ego and expectation shape experience
- Why attention matters more than toughness
- What Kokoda reveals when distractions are stripped away
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda history, trekking preparation, culture, and the deeper lessons found along the Track.
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In this episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast, host Glenn Azar chats with Peta, a solo traveler who recently completed the challenging Kokoda Track.
Peta shares her inspiring story of perseverance and determination, having trained for 12 months to prepare for the grueling 8-day trek. From overcoming physical challenges to mental toughness, Peta opens up about her experiences and the lessons she learned along the way. She also discusses the importance of group dynamics, cultural immersion, and the bond between the locals and trekkers.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering tackling the Kokoda Track or looking for inspiration to push through their own challenges.
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What Your Trekking Company Should Be Doing (But Many Don’t)Choosing a Kokoda trekking company is one of the most important decisions you’ll make — and one of the least understood. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explains what professional, responsible Kokoda operators should actually be doing behind the scenes, and why those standards often only become visible when things go wrong. Drawing on more than 90 crossings of the Kokoda Track, this episode covers preparation, leadership, medical readiness, group management, cultural responsibility, and ethics — offering listeners a framework to make informed decisions before committing to a trek. This is essential listening for anyone considering Kokoda and wanting to walk it safely, respectfully, and properly.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Why not all Kokoda trekking companies operate at the same standard
- What proper preparation should look like before you arrive
- The role of leadership when fatigue and pressure set in
- Why medical readiness and group ratios matter
- How ethics and culture separate good operators from the rest
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda history, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Track.
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Wantok in Action: How Community Sustains Life on KokodaWantok is more than a word — it’s how life works along the Kokoda Track.
In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores what Wantok looks like in action and how community, responsibility, and shared effort have sustained life in the Owen Stanley Range for generations.
Drawing on on-Track experience and cultural insight, this episode explains how Wantok shows up in village life, porter relationships, and even in moments of hardship — and why understanding this system is essential for anyone walking Kokoda today. This episode offers a deeper appreciation of how community, not individual strength, has always been the foundation of survival on Kokoda.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- What Wantok looks like in everyday village life
- How community responsibility works on Kokoda
- The role Wantok played during the Kokoda Campaign
- What trekkers are witnessing — even when they don’t realise it
- Why respecting Wantok matters for Kokoda’s future
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Kokoda history, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Track.
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Life in the Jungle: What the Soldiers Faced DailyThe Kokoda Campaign wasn’t just fought against an enemy force — it was fought against the jungle itself. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores what daily life was really like for Australian soldiers living and fighting in the Papua New Guinea jungle during World War II. Moving beyond famous battles and heroic moments, this episode examines the constant moisture, disease, hunger, sleep deprivation, and psychological strain that defined everyday existence on Kokoda — and why understanding this reality changes how we walk the Track today. This episode offers vital context for anyone seeking to understand the true cost of the campaign and the resilience required to endure it.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Why the jungle was one of the greatest enemies on Kokoda
- How disease and illness affected the campaign
- The impact of hunger, fatigue, and lack of sleep
- Why morale and leadership mattered so much
- How understanding daily hardship deepens respect for the Track
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda history, Papua New Guinea culture, and the realities of trekking the Track with meaning and respect.
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Feet, Fatigue & Friction: The Real Enemy on KokodaMost Kokoda treks don’t unravel because of fitness or motivation — they unravel because of feet.
In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar breaks down why foot issues are the most common trek-ending problem on Kokoda, and why fatigue and friction quietly amplify small problems into major ones. Drawing on more than 90 crossings of the Track, this episode explains how moisture, steep descents, load, and fatigue impact foot health, why boot and sock choice matters more than brand names, and why early action is critical. This is essential listening for anyone preparing for Kokoda who wants to reduce unnecessary suffering and protect their ability to keep moving day after day.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Why feet are the most vulnerable part of the Kokoda trek
- How fatigue changes movement and increases injury risk
- The real causes of blisters and skin breakdown
- Why boot fit and sock choice matter more than toughness
- How early foot care decisions affect the entire trek
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Kokoda’s military history, Papua New Guinea culture, and practical trekking insights most people don’t talk about.
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The Terrain That Decided the WarOn the Kokoda Track, the terrain wasn’t just the setting — it was an enemy in its own right. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores how the Owen Stanley Range and the dense Papua New Guinea jungle shaped every aspect of the Kokoda Campaign. Drawing on military history and modern on-Track experience, Glenn explains why movement itself became the battle, how the terrain crippled supply lines and decision-making, and why endurance mattered more than technology in this environment. This episode offers powerful context for anyone walking Kokoda today, helping listeners understand just how much the land itself demanded of those who fought there — and why that same terrain still commands respect from modern trekkers.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Why the Owen Stanley Range shaped the entire Kokoda Campaign
- How jungle terrain neutralised traditional military advantages
- Why movement and resupply were decisive challenges
- What modern trekkers can learn by walking the same ground
- How terrain still influences outcomes on Kokoda today
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda’s military history, Papua New Guinea culture, and the realities of trekking the Track with respect and preparation.
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How Hard Is Kokoda… Really? (An Honest Answer)“How hard is Kokoda?” is one of the most common questions asked by people considering the Track — and one of the most misunderstood. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar gives an honest, experience-based answer drawn from more than 90 crossings of the Kokoda Track. Rather than focusing only on steep climbs and physical exertion, this episode explores the cumulative fatigue, mental strain, and decision-making challenges that truly define Kokoda’s difficulty. Glenn explains why comparison is one of the biggest traps trekkers fall into, why fitness alone isn’t enough, and what actually helps people finish strong. If you’re preparing for Kokoda — or wondering whether it’s something you can do — this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and a grounded perspective on what the Track really demands.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Why Kokoda is hard in layers, not moments
- The difference between fitness and preparedness
- How comparison makes Kokoda harder than it needs to be
- Why mental fatigue plays such a big role
- What really determines who thrives on the Track
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Kokoda history, Papua New Guinea culture, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Track.
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One of the most common questions Glenn is asked is simple:
“Are you leading my trek?”
In this episode, Glenn explains why he doesn’t lead every Kokoda trek anymore — and why that should give you confidence, not concern.
Adventure Professionals is no longer built around one person. It’s built around exceptional leaders, high standards, and a deep respect for the land, culture, people, and history of Papua New Guinea.
This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at:
- How Adventure Professionals selects and trains its trek leaders
- Why leadership, humility, and decision-making matter more than ego
- The two-year Adventure Leaders Mentorship and the standards expected
- How safety, culture, military history, and trekker experience are prioritised
- Why Kokoda doesn’t forgive ego — and neither do we
Glenn also introduces the incredible leaders who carry the Adventure Professionals name on the track — people he trusts completely with his reputation, his team, and your experience.
Meet the Leaders
- Mick Lay – Former soldier of 30+ years, leadership expert, and current instructor at the Royal Military College Duntroon
- Heidi Rumsby – A mum of three with a deep love for adventure, PNG, military history, and personal growth
- Bryan Waller – A dad of two passionate about physical and mental health and adventure as a mindset-building tool
- Caine – A dad of four focused on youth development, personal growth, and positive mental health through adventure
- Sami Dunk – The OG. A respected, passionate leader who brings joy, resilience, and perspective to every trek
- Mili Saul – PNG-born, raised in Milne Bay, and a vital cultural bridge ensuring respect for the land, people, and PNG team
Why This Matters
Whether you’re already booked or considering your first Kokoda trek, this episode is designed to reassure you that:
- You are led by people who care deeply
- Your safety and experience come first
- The culture, communities, and history of PNG are respected
- You are supported by a team — not just a name
Key Takeaway
You’re not booking a single leader.
You’re stepping into a team, built on trust, training, accountability, and shared values.
And that’s exactly how it should be.
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There comes a point where you stop trying to explain yourself in fragments —
and you decide to say it once, clearly.
This episode is that moment.
Whether you’re listening via The Kokoda Track Podcast or The Building Better Humans Project Podcast, this episode lays the foundation for everything that follows.
Not a hype reel.
Not motivation for motivation’s sake.
But a clear line in the sand.
In this episode, Glenn Azar shares the personal standards, beliefs, and lived experiences that underpin his work in adventure, leadership, youth development, and mentoring. From the lessons learned under load on the Kokoda Track to the realities of ownership, pressure, identity, and respect — this is a grounding episode designed to help listeners slow down, reflect, and recalibrate.
You’ll hear why:
- Ownership beats excuses every time
- Pressure reveals character, not comfort
- Leadership always starts with self
- Adventure is a tool for growth, not a bucket-list item
- Strong humans build strong families, communities, and futures
This episode is an invitation — not to follow blindly, but to take responsibility for your own growth and walk forward with intention.
If this resonates, you’re in the right place.
And if it challenges you — even better.
That’s where the real work begins.
Key Themes
- Personal standards over motivation
- Accountability and ownership
- Leadership through lived experience
- Respect for land, culture, and people
- Building strong individuals and communities
Listen If You Are
- Feeling stuck or disconnected from your direction
- Craving clarity instead of noise
- Interested in leadership, personal growth, or adventure with purpose
- Ready to slow down and solve the problem in front of you
Final Thought
This isn’t a brand message.
It’s a way of life.
Welcome to the journey.
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Wantok: What It Really Means and Why It Matters on KokodaWantok is more than a word — it’s a way of life. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar explores the cultural heart of Papua New Guinea and explains why understanding Wantok is essential for anyone walking the Kokoda Track. Drawing on decades of experience and more than 90 crossings, Glenn shares stories from village life along the Track, reflects on how Wantok shaped the Kokoda Campaign during World War II, and explains why respect, humility, and community matter just as much as fitness on this journey. This episode challenges common assumptions about independence and success, and offers a powerful reminder that Kokoda is not just a trek — it is someone else’s home.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- What Wantok really means in Papua New Guinea culture
- How village life along the Kokoda Track actually works
- The role Wantok played during the Kokoda Campaign
- Why respect and ethical trekking matter
- What modern trekkers can learn from PNG community values
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda history, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Track.
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Isurava: Courage, Fear, and the Moment That Changed EverythingIsurava is more than a campsite on the Kokoda Track — it is a place where the spirit of the campaign was forged. In this episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar takes listeners deep into the story of Isurava, where outnumbered and exhausted Australian soldiers were ordered to hold back the Japanese advance through the Owen Stanley Range in 1942.Blending military history with on-Track insight and personal reflection, this episode explores why Isurava still stops trekkers in their tracks, how courage and fear coexisted on this battlefield, and what this place continues to teach us about leadership, responsibility, and sacrifice. Whether you’re preparing to walk the Track or simply want to understand why Kokoda carries such emotional weight, this episode offers a powerful insight into one of its most important locations.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Why the Battle of Isurava was a turning point in the Kokoda Campaign
- What courage looked like for young Australian soldiers under fire
- How the terrain and conditions shaped the battle
- Why Isurava still has a profound impact on modern trekkers
- The leadership lessons this place continues to teach
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for upcoming episodes covering Papua New Guinea culture, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons found along the Kokoda Track.
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What People Don’t Realise About Kokoda Until It’s Too LateMost people think they know what makes the Kokoda Track hard. They expect steep climbs, jungle heat, and physical exhaustion.
But those who have actually walked Kokoda know the real challenge runs far deeper. In this opening episode of The Kokoda Track Podcast, Glenn Azar — founder and lead guide of Adventure Professionals with over 90 crossings of the Track — shares the realities of Kokoda that don’t show up in brochures or social media posts. Drawing on decades of experience leading people through the Owen Stanley Range, Glenn explores why Kokoda isn’t hard in the way people expect, how mental fatigue and cumulative stress quietly undo even the fittest trekkers, and why purpose and humility matter far more than ego on this Track. This episode is part storytelling, part education, and part personal reflection — offering listeners an honest insight into what Kokoda truly asks of those who choose to walk it. Whether you’re considering trekking Kokoda, already booked, or simply seeking to understand why this place changes people, this episode sets the foundation for everything that follows.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
- Why Kokoda’s difficulty is more about relentlessness than fitness
- The mental traps that catch people off guard on the Track
- How ego, expectation, and fatigue shape the Kokoda experience
- What over 90 crossings have revealed about who thrives on Kokoda — and why
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast for future episodes covering Kokoda’s military history, Papua New Guinea’s culture, trekking preparation, and the deeper lessons this Track has to offer.
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As we head into 2026, The Kokoda Track Podcast is evolving.
Until now, this podcast has largely focused on interviews with people who have trekked the Kokoda Track and shared their personal experiences. Those stories still matter — and they’re not going anywhere — but it’s time to broaden the conversation.
In this episode, Glenn Azar outlines a new direction for the podcast, one that brings deeper education, stronger context, and more responsibility to how Kokoda is talked about and understood.
Drawing on his military background, more than 90 crossings of the Kokoda Track, and a deep personal connection to Papua New Guinea through his partner Mili, Glenn explains why there is a growing gap between what people are told about Kokoda and what they actually experience on the ground.
From 2026 onwards, the podcast will focus on three core pillars:
- Trekking reality and preparation — honest conversations about fitness, boots, foot care, trekking poles, pacing, fatigue, and the small details that can make or break a trek
- Military history and meaning — not just dates and battles, but the human stories, terrain, leadership, and sacrifice that shaped the Kokoda Campaign
- Culture, custom, and respect — essential knowledge about Papua New Guinea, Wantok, village life, porters, ethics, and how to walk the Track as a guest, not a tourist
This episode also outlines what listeners can expect going forward, including:
- A weekly episode as a minimum
- More solo, educational episodes
- Occasional interviews when they add depth and insight
- A stronger focus on caring for Kokoda well beyond the trekking experience
This is not about selling Kokoda.
It’s about honouring it — through preparation, understanding, and respect for the land, the history, and the people who call it home.
If you’re considering Kokoda, preparing for a trek, or simply want to understand why this place matters so deeply, this episode sets the foundation for everything that follows.
In This Episode, Glenn Covers:
- Why the podcast is evolving in 2026
- The information most trekkers aren’t given — and why that matters
- The three pillars guiding the future of the show
- The importance of cultural respect and responsibility on Kokoda
- What listeners can expect from future episodes
Follow The Kokoda Track Podcast as we move into a new chapter — one focused on depth, respect, and understanding Kokoda beyond the Track itself.
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The Kokoda Track Podcast: Your Questions Answered
Are you preparing for the adventure of a lifetime on the Kokoda Track? In this informative episode, host Glenn Azar addresses three critical questions from a future trekker that many potential hikers wonder about but rarely ask. From the practical aspects of food and meal timing on the track to managing illness in the jungle and surviving the infamous "Chiropractor Express" truck ride, Glenn shares insights from his impressive 98 crossings of the Kokoda Track. This episode offers valuable preparation tips that go beyond physical training, helping you prepare mentally and practically for this life-changing journey.
Timestamps and Key Takeaways:
1:15 - Food on the track: Glenn explains the 24-hour ration pack system that allows trekkers to graze throughout the day rather than having set meal times
- Packs include a variety of foods: rolled oats, canned goods, noodles, snacks, and beverages
- The grazing approach helps those who can't exercise on a full stomach
4:30 - Managing illness on the track: What happens when trekkers get sick?
- Stomach issues are less common than expected due to sealed food packages and hygiene practices
- When illness occurs, the group continues moving but at a slower pace
- Proper hydration and basic medications usually resolve issues without major delays
6:15 - The "Chiropractor Express": Surviving the truck ride from Popondetta to Kokoda
- Despite the bumpy ride, motion sickness is rarely an issue due to open-air seating with good airflow
- The scenery and interaction with locals provide a welcome distraction
- Front seating options available for those particularly concerned about motion sickness
9:45 - Glenn's invitation for listeners to submit their own questions and his commitment to keeping the Kokoda spirit alive
Ready to take on this incredible journey? Glenn's expert advice will help you prepare properly and approach your trek with confidence. Listen now and take the first step toward your Kokoda adventure.
TREK KOKODA WITH US
KOKODA FITNESS PROGRAM
1-ON-1 MENTORING SESSION WITH GLENN
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The Kokoda Track Podcast dives into the experiences of those who have trekked this iconic trail in Papua New Guinea. In this episode, host Glenn interviews Caine, an adventure leader in training, about his perspectives from completing the track multiple times.
Get an inside look at Caine's evolving journey on the Kokoda Track, from his first trek for mental health to leading groups and passing on the diggers' stories. Learn how the history and emotions woven into the land continue to draw him back.
Timestamps:
00:01:30 - Caine's overview of his Kokoda Track experiences
00:08:15 - Handling adversity and challenges on the track
00:12:30 - Connecting with the military history
00:18:45 - Caine's advice for first time trekkers
00:23:00 - The impact Caine hopes each trek has on people
00:26:00 - Rapid fire questions
Key Takeaways:
- Training is crucial, but take the steep hills slowly
- it's a mental challenge as much as physical
- Connect with the local people and culture to get the most out of the experience
- Everyone is capable of completing the track with the right mindset and preparation
- The stories of the diggers must continue to be told to new generations
The Kokoda Track is an emotional, perspective-shifting journey. Are you ready to take on the challenge and become part of the story? Tune in to hear Caine's experiences and wisdom for your own upcoming trek.
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This episode is different. It's not about Australian battalions, tactics or commanders. It's about the people who walked beside the diggers. The quiet heroes. The ones who didn't carry rifles, but carried lives. Today, we're talking about the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels.
ADVENTURE WITH US
KOKODA FIT
TREK KOKODA
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Today we sit with Heidi for Part 2 of our ANZAC Leaders Reflections.
🌿 Connection to History and Culture
- What does the military history of Kokoda mean to you personally?
- How do you help others connect with the story of Kokoda while they’re trekking?
- What do you think trekkers should know before they come to understand Kokoda beyond the physical challenge?
🌍 Advice for Future Trekkers
- What advice would you give to someone preparing for their first Kokoda trek?
- What’s the biggest mistake you see trekkers make when they come to Kokoda?
- What’s one thing you think everyone should do or experience while on the track?
🔥 Leadership and Impact
- What does it mean to be a leader on Kokoda—not just logistically but emotionally and culturally?
- How has leading people through Kokoda shaped your own leadership style or philosophy?
- What impact do you hope each trek has on the people who join you?
❤️ The Deeper Why
- Why do you personally continue to walk Kokoda?
- How does Kokoda affect you long after each trek ends?
- What legacy do you want to leave through your work on the Kokoda Track?
TREK KOKODA WITH US
KOKODA FITNESS PROGRAM
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I sat down with Adventure Leader Heidi and asked her these nine questions:
🔍 Experience and Motivation
-
What first inspired you to trek the Kokoda Track?
-
What keeps bringing you back to Kokoda year after year?
-
How has your view of Kokoda changed from your first trek to now?
🧠 Lessons and Growth
-
What’s one of the biggest lessons Kokoda has taught you—about yourself or about life?
-
What moment on the track stands out as a turning point in your career or life?
-
How do you handle adversity or challenges on the track—physically, mentally or emotionally?
🌿 Connection to History and Culture
-
What does the military history of Kokoda mean to you personally?
-
How do you help others connect with the story of Kokoda while they’re trekking?
-
What do you think trekkers should know before they come to understand Kokoda beyond the physical challenge?
TREK THE KOKODA TRACK
KOKODA FIT
ADVENTURE WITH US
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In this episode, we’re going to take a deeper dive into the terrain, geography, and physical demands of the Kokoda Track—arguably one of the most formidable battlegrounds in Australian military history. For anyone preparing to walk this track today, or simply seeking to understand what our soldiers endured in 1942, this episode will give you a real sense of what they were up against. It’s one thing to read about it, another to stand in the mud yourself. But for now, I want to take you there through story and description.
ADVENTURE WITH US
KOKODA FIT PROGRAM
TREK THE KOKODA TRACK
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Hey Everyone,
I finally got to take my partner, and PNG national, Mili Saul to Kokoda. This is her experience.
KOKODA FITNESS
ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALS
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It's easy to think if the Kokoda Campaign as a chapter in a history book. But when you walk the track - when you feel the mud under your boots and the weight of history in the air - you realise this story is alive. It lives in every ridge, every village, every monument.
It lives in the people.
DO KOKODA WITH GLENN
FITNESS FOR KOKODA
ADVENTURE WITH GLENN
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For years this show has been built on interviews from the track. That's not changing - but now we're going deeper.
Deeper into the history.
Deeper into the battles.
Deeper into the country, the people and the lessons Kokoda teaches us.
Whether you're preparing to trek the Track or simply want to understand why this place matters, this podcast is now your definitive resource.
ADVENTURE WITH GLENN
FITNESS FOR KOKODA
JOIN GLENN ON THE KOKODA TRACK
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Heidi and Glenn are back with even more answers to the most common FAQ's around the Kokoda Track. :-)
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This week Heidi and myself answer some FAQ's which will hopefully help you in your Kokoda prep.
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I have a quick announcement for the upcoming ANZAC Kokoda period.
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This week I am sitting down with Adventure Professionals trek leader Heidi and we're chatting all things Kokoda, preparation for a double crossing, ANZAC and everything in between.
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We are back for the 2025 season of The Kokoda Track Podcast.
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An update on the current closure along the Kokoda Track in PNG and thoughts on whether or not it will reopen for 2025.
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This week I chat with Trek Leader and Human Performance Specialist Sami Dunk, about the changes in her mindset and body when preparing for Kokoda now that she has had children and the hormonal changes that come with that.
Plenty in this episode for the ladies and even for the men out there. I trust you'll enjoy this one. :-)
ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALS WEBSITE
GET KOKODA FIT
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This week I had a chat with David Kelly who did Kokoda back in 2019 and then again in 2024, but this time added in the Northern Beaches.
We chatted about the differences between the two trips, five years apart and what he did differently this time to prepare.
ADVENTURE WITH US
KOKODA WITH US
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Today I spoke with Todd who served in the Army with me and his wife Kate, about their Kokoda experience
DO KOKODA WITH US
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Today I am sharing some interviews with myself, Aiden Taylor and Bill James from the 4BC radio station in Brisbane. I really hope you enjoy these because there are some really valuable conversations here.
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Another podcast and another chat with a good mate of mine who trekked Kokoda with me this year.
Tuffy kept good notes on his training so I thought it would be good to share those with you. I get asked about training a lot.
ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALS
KOKODA TRACK
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ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALS
KOKODA TRACK INFORMATION
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Today I chat Kokoda with Aiden who just completed the ANZAC Kokoda Trek.
ADVENTURE PROFESSIONALS WEBSITE
KOKODA TRACK
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This week I sat down with Renee to chat about how she felt after her Kokoda Track experience and what were her highlights, low points, unexpected pieces etc.
We touched on her training and what she would do differently knowing what she knows now. :-)
KOKODA FITNESS PROGRAM
KOKODA TRACK - TREKKING 2024
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Today I sat and chatted with Penny who trekked Kokoda only three weeks ago after waiting for three years due to the pandemic.
She had some great insights.
KOKODA FITNESS
TREK KOKODA
KOKODA FITNESS
TREK KOKODA
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This week I am having a high-energy chat with Tara after her recent Kokoda Track and Northern Beaches adventure.
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Today I have the pleasure of having Emma back on the show and taking about her recent Kokoda Experience.
Also I have released my 8 week KOKODA FIT program which is a fitness program designed to get you fit and ready for your trek across the Kokoda Track.
Click the link below to check it out:
KOKODA FIT ONLINE PROGRAM
KOKODA FIT ONLINE PROGRAM
KOKODA FIT ONLINE PROGRAM
KOKODA FIT ONLINE PROGRAM
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I have finally released my 8 week KOKODA FIT program which is a fitness program designed to get you fit and ready for your trek across the Kokoda Track.
Click the link below to check it out:
KOKODA FIT ONLINE PROGRAM
KOKODA FIT ONLINE PROGRAM
KOKODA FIT ONLINE PROGRAM
KOKODA FIT ONLINE PROGRAM
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This week I sat down and chatted to Andrew, Emile and Scott sat down and chatted collectively about their Kokoda Track experience for ANZAC 2023.
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Dr Clair Whelan popped in via zoom right before her Kokoda Track experience. We will do a follow up to see how close to the mark we were in what she would experience in Papua New Guinea.
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This week Sheree Ramsay shares her Kokoda experience and compares it to other adventures she has done including the Aussie 10 Peaks and Dog Sledding in the Yukon.
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Kokoda Track three years in the making and now Emma is only six weeks away. Here's her chat about what she's expecting.
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Everyone's Kokoda experience is unique and this week Jay Martin from Sydney is sharing his recent experience on the Kokoda Track.
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This week I sat down and did a chat with Penny about Kokoda but this was a different one because Penny hasn't done the track as yet. :-)
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I have just returned from the Kokoda Track ANZAC double and thought I would share some of my experiences with you.
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After returning from Kokoda yesterday I invited Jules in today to chat on the show and she was fortunate enough to say yes so you get to hear someone's experience hot off the track.
I hope you enjoy the messages and stories Jules' and I share about our last week on the track.
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/
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The Kokoda season is here. After three years and many false starts we are finally ready to get back to doing what we love with people we love.
If you see me on the track, come and say g'day.
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/
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Today I sat and chatted to Nathan Whittington who trekked with me back in 2015 as a young soldier who had lost his left leg due to an accident.
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/our-trips/
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/our-trips/
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/our-trips/
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/our-trips/
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I am answering questions around the Kokoda Track and this week I have seven questions by Tara that came via facebook. If you would like me to answer any questions then please feel free to send them through and I will do my best to get them on the show for you.
INSURANCE for Trekking
INSURANCE for Trekking
INSURANCE for Trekking
INSURANCE for Trekking
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We are back not only for the podcast but back trekking Kokoda in 2023. To get involved check out all the available dates below.
KOKODA TRACK DATES
KOKODA TRACK DATES
KOKODA TRACK DATES
KOKODA TRACK DATES
KOKODA TRACK DATES
KOKODA TRACK DATES
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Well it feels like we will finally be allowed back onto the Kokoda Track in 2022 so here's a little reboot of the podcast to get us excited.
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It's been a long time between episodes so I wanted to drop in with an update and to commit to more episodes in the coming months.
Maybe one or two a month depending on how I go getting people to come on and record their experiences on the track.
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Glenn and Tatum recently ran a facebook live to chat about the state of play along the Kokoda Track.
It was a good chat and we had some great questions so we thought we'd share it here. :-)
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Hey Everyone,
There was a stuff up with my laptop and I wasn't able to get the Zoom feed happening on Wednesday so I have rescheduled to Sunday at 4pm.
My apologies for the stuff up. All the details you need are on the Adventure Professionals facebook page. Click below to access.
Kokoda Info Night
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I have been away with everything happening this year but we're back.
KOKODA INFO ZOOM: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87349182171
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Today Glenn and Tatum walk you through the second half of the Kokoda Track from their perspective.
Thank you for all the wonderful feedback throughout this time. I have been energised by your kind words and by you asking me to stick to bringing out episodes even when we know we can't be out on the track together.
www.adventureprofessionals.com.au
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A short episode to share with you the briefing from Brigade Hill.
This is a briefing I deliver at Mission Ridge before we head to Brigade Hill. It sets the scene for the service we hold on Brigade Hill.
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This week I sat down with Tatum O'Toole and we walked through the Kokoda Track experience from leaving Brisbane to arriving at the half way mark.
Enjoy. :-)
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Lest We Forget
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Here's the Kokoda Track from the experience of someone walking it from start to finish for the first time.
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Whilst we're currently not out on the Kokoda Track I wanted to encourage you to stay in the fight. This was an important message for the troops in 1942 and it's a great message for you today.
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More info on the coronavirus and updated travel bans for Aussies. It's a fluid situation and we're all doing the best we can.
I will keep the updates coming as they come to hand.
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Today I want to talk about what everyone is talking about - the Coronavirus and of course how it effects your upcoming Kokoda Track journey.
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Today I sat down with my daughter and avid adventurer Alyssa Azar and we chatted about fitness from her first Kokoda Track crossing at 8 years old right through to climbing Mt Everest.
We really tried to drill down on the fitness required for Kokoda whether you're an active exerciser or office bound and have made the decision to trek Kokoda in the near future.
I think there's a lot of value in this episode for everyone.
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/kokoda-campaign/
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Nik is the owner of Fitness Perfection in Orange, NSW and last year crossed the Kokoda Track in six days.
This year he's heading back for an 8 day crossing to enjoy the experience a little bit more. You can join him if you like.
4th - 13th September 2020 check out https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/our-trips/kokoda-track/
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This week I chat to Dee Warren who trekked Kokoda with me last year.
Dee really enjoyed her experience but almost talked herself out of it in the months prior after only one walk at Mt Cootha Brisbane.
Dee and I would love to run a Ladies Only Kokoda so if that's something you'd like to do then check the link below and book into Hen's Pen Kokoda Track from the 26th August to 4th September 2020.
https://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/our-trips/kokoda-track/
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I get a lot of questions from people already booked to trek Kokoda. If you're not trekking with me but would like to get on a zoom or skype call then let's do it.
Get in touch info@adventureprofessionals.com.au and my team will check my calendar and set you up.
Thanks,
Glenn
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This week I am chatting to David Vidic who hasn’t yet stepped foot on the Kokoda Track however he has an interesting and inspirational story. David is a dad, has a full time job and a business on the side so it’s fair to say he’s busy.
Over time with all he has on he put on weight to a point where he knew he just wasn’t healthy so he started a journey to lose weight, regain control of his life and he set himself a goal of crossing the Kokoda Track to do it. I wanted to share his mindset, his journey to this point and allow you to follow his journey leading up to crossing the track and then we will get him back on at the completion of his challenge.
I think this is a great story because so many people tell me that they can’t do the Kokoda Track because they’re unfit, too old, can’t fit in the training, have injuries etc. Whilst others are out there doing something about those issues and improving their life in the process. That, to me, is the essence of what the Kokoda Track is all about. It can change your life. You just have to believe in yourself enough to take that first step.
So here’s David’s story.
MY KOKODA JOURNEY FACEBOOK PAGE
MY KOKODA JOURNEY INSTAGRAM
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Welcome back to the Kokoda Track podcast our second episode for 2020 ands this week I am interviewing Heidi Rumsby from Scone in NSW.
Heidi completed a six day crossing of the track with me last year as a part of the 98 Gym Kokoda Track adventure. She’s a mum. A business owner. And someone who fell in love with the track and the PNG people as most people tend to do.
I think you’ll get some great value out of her story this week.
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Welcome back to the Kokoda Track podcast for 2020.
My top tips for getting yourself ready for the Kokoda Track.
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Mental Fitness
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Physical Fitness
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Testing Equipment (Boots etc)
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History – understand it and have a few key notes or notable stories from different battles to take with you.
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Consider your local impact. Not all companies do so I feel it’s on us as individual trekkers to consider this and not leave it to the company you’re trekking with.
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What gifts can you take?
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What are some of my must haves?
Head torch and check your batteries. Wear your boots onto the plane. Take Spare Laces. Rechargeable Battery Pack for your phone/camera etc. Warm Clothes for night time. It can get cold up high. Knee Brace and strapping tape. You may not need them but someone might. Limit amount of gear. Think of the porters. Just take unending amounts of crap. You’re meant to find some discomfort/challenges in all of this. It’s kind of the point.
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Here I share a blog post that I wrote for Mountain Designs which is about my Top 10 Tips for successfully crossing the Kokoda Track.
I hope you find some great value in these. :-)
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The ever smiling Maxine popped into the Adventure Professionals office in Brisbane this week on her way back to the West Coast. It was great to sit and chat all things Kokoda. :-)
From a major injury and operation to making the decision to cross the Kokoda Track. This is an inspiring story of overcoming obstacles to achieve your bucket list items.
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I recently trekked the Kokoda Track with the Terry White Chemmart group who raised money for Ovarian Cancer Australia. This week I got to chat with Pharmacist Christine Timms about her Kokoda Track experience.
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Scott is a school teacher at Sirius College and recently trekked the Kokoda Track with an amazing group of young students from Years 9 to 11.
This is his story of what was an amazing experience.
Sirius College Kokoda Track Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bufa3M5MWS8&fbclid=IwAR2GwnCFZlEonaM8RENbV9UuCn-7cYgVdxC-VSdqd6zsna5KDzzt0lYiHEU
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This week I dropped into Facebook HQ in Sydney to interview Dave Fernandez who completed the Kokoda Track in a six day crossing with the 98 Gym team in July this year.
Dave is a great bloke who was the life of the party along the track so we re-live some of those moments including what is no known as Speedo-Gate or the 'Speedo Incident'.
Heaps of laughs and great tips on trekking the Kokoda Track this week. :-)
www.adventureprofessionals.com.au
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I'm in between Kokoda Track adventures and wanted to pop in and answer some questions I had around packing lists. Specifically as to why some lists differ so here it is. Enjoy. :-)
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This week I had a great chat with Marty Vasterink who has a unique connection to the Kokoda Track that he didn't know about until just before he took on the challenge to trek the track.
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Ross Thompson spent a few years at school Lae, PNG so definitely had an infinity for the place. This was cemented even further after trekking the Kokoda Track.
Trek Mat: https://www.mountaindesigns.com/equipment/sleeping/sleeping-mats/pro-38-sleeping-mat/BP90139843
Back Packs: https://www.mountaindesigns.com/equipment/packs-bags/hiking-packs/explorer-65l-hiking-pack/BP90141001
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Alex made the decisions to trek Kokoda and decided to do it alone and carry her own pack. This is her experience.
My favourite Sleeping mat for the Kokoda Track: https://www.mountaindesigns.com/equipment/sleeping/sleeping-mats/pro-38-sleeping-mat/BP90139843
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Gary Campbell dropped into the Project 180 studio this week and chatted about his Kokoda Track experience from ANZAC 2019.
It was a great chat and we dug deep on the how's and why's behind the Kokoda Track experience.
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This week I chat to Ash English who is one of the rare breed who treks Kokoda more than once. We chat about the differences in his experiences and why he wants to go again.
There's a lot of great content in this weeks chat. I hope you enjoy this episode.
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Karen McIntyre is the funraising co-ordinator for an amazing charity Act for Kids and organised a Kokoda Track adventure as a fundraiser.
Once she made the decision to take on the track herself she changed her life with an amazing physical transformation. This is her inspiring story. :-)
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It's always interesting to get the perspective of different ages and stages of life from the people who trek the Kokoda Track and this week I sat down wuth 15yo Jayda who is the youngest person I've had on the show.
I really enjoyed chatting with Jayda and getting her perspective on the entire Kokoda experience.
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This week I finish with the Narabri boys Kenny, Jase and Goobs who trekked with Nev Owers for his 50th Birthday and what a trek it wasI hope you enjoy the show. :-)
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This week I chat to Nev Owers out on the Kokoda Track as he treks to celebrate his upcoming milestone birthday.
A great trip, great adventure and really good chat.
http://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/
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Linda is a good friend who tackled the Kokoda Track with me for ANZAC 2019. This is her story.
http://www.adventureprofessionals.com.au/kokodatrack/
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I have just returned from back to back Kokoda Track adventures one of which was with Act for Kids who raised an amazing $259,000 thus far for abused and neglected children. If you'd like to get involved then head on over to:
http://everydayhero.com.au/event/kokoda2019
This week I speak to Jaimee Macintyre on her 2nd Kokoda Track experience. This was recorded in real time whilst out trekking the track.
I also chat about the Kokoda Blues and what to do about them
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I get this question a lot so I thought I would answer it for you here.
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In 2015 Jay Walkerden took the majority of his team from Nova 106.9 across the Kokoda Track. This was Jay's second crossing of the track and I thought it would be interesting to chat around a boss taking their team away and what they hoped to achieve by this.
As a part of that trip we did a documentary with Channel 7 and Nova 106.9 to raise money and awareness for Mates4Mates.org
You can see that documentary here: KOKODA TRACK DOCO
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Becserved 15 years in the Australian Army and suffered a debilitating illness which potentially changed her life forever but she overcame the odds to redeploy. Hear how the Kokoda Track played it's part in that journey.
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After 34 years in the Army walking the Kokoda Track was always going to have a special significance for Rob Vonk but there were some surprises in store on an emotional and physical level.
Walking with his Daughter Gabby was something special and his fondest memory. This is easily my favourite episode to date because it really highlights the 'life changing' part that is so important on the Kokoda Track.
I can't thank Rob enough for opening up and being so real about his journey. You will get so much from this episode as a result of his willingness to do so.
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This week I sat down with my daughter Alyssa Azar who has trekked across the Kokoda Track eight times including as an 8yo back in 2005, a journey which eventually lead to her climbing Mt Everest twice being the youngest Australian to successfully stand on the summit and the youngest woman to ever do so from both the North and South sides of the mountain.
Now Alyssa is putting her years of adventure experience and expertise into preparing training programs to help people get fit for adventure.
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I was very fortunate to get some time chatting to Kokoda veteran Roy Arthy. I am very excited to be able to share this episode with you.
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Today I chat to Tatum who won her Kokoda Track adventure with Nova 106.9 in Brisbane. Tatum loves travel, loves adventure and so it made sense she would love Kokoda.
This is her story.
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Kerri first trekked the Kokoda Track with me a few years ago with thanks to Mates4Mates who look after veteran health.
Now she's going back and this time she's raising money for Act4Kids an amazing charity that works with abused and neglected children.
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This week I thought I would sit and answer some of your most pressing questions around trekking the Kokoda Track.
I trust you will find some great value in this one but if you have a question I haven't answered then get in touch and let me know. More than happy to answer yours as well.
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This week I have combined two short episodes into one. First is Kila Eddie. My man on the ground.
Kila is the head guide and company owner in PNG who looks after all of the modern day Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels who help guide trekkers across the track safely. Kila is a bit nervous to be talking in an interview like this but in the end he enjoyed the experience. I have so much love and respect for this man and all he's done for the people of Alola on the Kokoda Track.
I back up that talk with Mick Lay a former soldier of 22 years who has served everywhere from Timor to the Middle East. Mick and I served in the Army together in Townsville back in the late 90's and he is now leading trips with me along the Kokoda Track. I man I have immense respect for.
I think you will get an enormous amount out of this episode as you hear from the men on the ground with your Kokoda Track experience.
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This week we have a fantastic episode for you. John Tannock walked the Kokoda Track at 68yo but that’s only a small part of the story.
His father was wounded in the battle of Oivi/Gorari. A pivotal battle which saw 133 Australians killed in action and 225 wounded.
The battle that broke the Japanese forces and sent them back to the beach heads where they were eventually defeated.
John spent a large chunk of time and his own money to have a monument built to his Dad and his Dad’s mates.
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In this episode I sat down with Jaimee Macintyre trekked the Kokoda Track to raise funds and awareness for the White Ribbon Foundation, a cause that means a lot to her.
I have always believed the Kokoda Track to be a spiritual adventure and with this in mind it was great to sit and hear just how profound this experience was for Jaimee in allowing her to process her past and move forward into a bold new future.
So much more than just a jungle trek.
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This week on the Kokoda Track Podcast I sat down with Lisa less than one week after her Kokoda Track experience so we were able to capture her whilst the memory and emotion were still real.
Find out what one luxury item she took on the track and described as being 'Like a Hug from Nanna' as well as a lot of other usedul tips and insights.
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On this episode I chat to a good friend Kate. We had three goes at this podcast but we finally got there. It’s a long story but you will hear about it on this episode.
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Shane Ridley organised a group of close friends to trek the Kokoda Track this past July. He chats about his experience on a day to day basis and even shares a bit about the legend of the Chip and Chase at Efogi.
A move that the QLD Maroons could have benefited from this year in the State of Origin.
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This week we have something a little special. I recorded an episode of the podcast whilst out on the track so you get to re-live the experience in real time.
I interviewed Roslyn at Port Moresby and then at the end of every day on the track. It was great fun to try something new and I think you'll enjoy the way the episode turned out.
I have recorded another one in the same for the next episode too. I would love to get your feedback and this format. Personally I really thought it worked well.
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In Episode 11 Laura dropped into the studio to chat about her Kokoda Track experience from ANZAC 2018.
With the experience fresh in her mind and her knees still feeling the after-effects of a wet and slippery track I thought it was a good a time as any to chat about the experience, her training, what she enjoyed, what she'd do differently and why she decided to tackle the track in the first place.
It's a great episode with an energetic straight shooter. You'll enjoy this episode.
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Episode 10 of the Kokoda Track Podcast brings husband and wife team Matt and Jay into the studio to chat about and relive their Kokoda Track experience from ANZAC Kokoda 2017.
This is a great episode to get two different perspectives at the same time. If you're thinking of sharing this experience with your loved one then this is an episode you will thoroughly enjoy.
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Private Harold West and Private George Leonard from Cunnamulla in Western Queensland were inseparable. They did everything together including enlisting for the Second World War on 23 August 1941, as reinforcements for the 2/1st Battalion. As young boys, they were taught to live off the land and how to track. They became bushman trackers and worked as stationhands, ringbarkers and roustabouts. These skills, along with the ability to move quietly and invisibly through the bush were to come in very handy when their battalion found itself desperately fighting to hold off the Japanese advance on the Kokoda Track, Papua New Guinea in 1942.
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Dave trekked Kokoda this year pre-ANZAC. He has a history with the military but is also a very outddoorsy guy who hold a degree in Sport and Exercise Science.
It was great to hear just how special the Kokoda Track was for him.
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This week's episode we sat down and chatted with Matt Botcher who trekked the Kokoda Track with me ANZAC 2018. He's a great young man who is constantly supporting veteran's causes and used this trek to raise more funds for an Afghanistan Memorial to be built in Brisbane.
Matt is heavily involved with 42 for 42 who can be found on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/42fallen/
Matt is currently organising a raffle where only 500 tickets are being sold. $50 each and the first prize is a Harley Davidson motorcycle.
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Sami Dunk trekked the Kokoda Track with me twice as a client. I could see the passion in her and new one day we would end up working together.
Fast forward and now Sami is leading trekkers across the track in between being a mum and a school teacher. There are no limits to this woman's strengths.
This week she shares her experiences from her first crossing to the things you learnt since.
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In 2017 Ross Lewis crossed the Kokoda Track but this wasn't any ordinary crossing of the Kokoda Track. Ross is a veteran himself and he was a member of a veterans group from the amazing charity mates4mates who provide services, experiences, therapies and support to wounded, injured and ill Australian Veterans.
As a veteran myself it's always an honour to be able to assist other veterans with their recovery and transitions into civilian life and I know without a shadow of a doubt that the Kokoda Track provides an amazing avenue to do that.
This is Ross's story and his Kokoda Track experience.
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Luke Stanley is one of those rare people that have crossed the Kokoda Track on more than one occasion. In this episode he explains why but also what the track means to him and why other people should take on this challenge for themselves.
Enjoy the episode
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There's often a passionate debate about whether the jungle track from Kokoda Village to Owers Corner should be named the Kokoda Track or the Kokoda Trail so this week we take a closer look at that.
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This week on the podcast I interview former soldier Ricky Dumigan who has crossed the Kokoda Track 18 times. Ricky is a former Physical Training Instructor to the Special Forces as a well as having played representative rugby around the world.
He is currently living in Japan where he is the Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Ricoh Black rams Rugby Team.
Ricky has crossed the Kokoda Track in just under 30 hours as a fundraiser he organised himself for veterans charity Mates4Mates.
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Thanks for tuning into the very first episode of the Kokoda Track Podcast.
This episode I start off by sharing a bit about myself and why I started this podcast. I felt it's important to give you my background before I then go on to explain what I hope you get out of the podcast.
So thanks again for tuning in and please feel free to get in touch with any questions, feedback or to be featured on the show.
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A short trailer so you can get an idea of what to expect from the upcoming podcast series.
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