Journey with Jake: Recent Episodes
Jake Bushman
Journey with Jake takes us each on an adventure out of our day to day lives to experience travel and vacation through the eyes of ordinary people like you and me. We share stories and find out why these destinations have unique meaning through memories and nostalgia. Journey with Jake taps into those special meaningful moments each of us appreciate about travel. This podcast will inform and encourage you to enjoy destinations in a way you haven’t thought of before. We will go from high profile destinations to simple memories and locations that hit close to home from the voices of those who experienced them. After all, it's not all about the destination as it is about the journey. So come along, as you Journey with Jake.
240 - What if the life you carefully planned suddenly feels too small? That question sits at the heart of my conversation with Dani Campbell, a former teacher who used the pandemic as a wake-up call. She walked away from the school routine, built a camper van, and spent years learning what solo van life really looks like when it’s not just a highlight reel. We get into the courage it takes to choose freedom, especially when your family is surprised, your future isn’t mapped, and you’re figuring it out in real time.
Dani also explains the story behind her brand name, “Stumbling Upon Serendipity,” and why she’s still a planner even while chasing spontaneity. We talk about solo travel as a woman, how her dog Trip helped with the quiet moments, and the practical ways she handles loneliness in cities versus deep solitude in nature with no service. She shares what it takes to fund life on the road through freelance writing, brand collaborations, and social media management, plus the tricky balance between creating content and staying present enough to actually enjoy the adventure.
Then we dive into her 30 before 30 challenge: paragliding, cowboy camping, fitness goals like a marathon and Hyrox, and even the oddly relatable goal of being the “mysterious person” reading in a coffee shop. Dani gets honest about mental health, creative ruts, and the pressure creators feel to be “enough” online, while still choosing a life built around community, stability, and the mountains of Colorado.
Subscribe to The Human Adventure, share this with a friend who’s craving a change, and leave a review if Dani’s story helps you rethink what you’re capable of.
To learn more about Dani and her adventures check out www.stumblinguponserendipity.com and follow her on Instagram @stumblinguponserendipity.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
239 - Joshua Church’s life starts with a shock: his lung collapses right after birth. What follows is years of injuries, surgeries, chronic pain, and a quiet belief that takes root early, “Maybe I’m broken.” When that story hardens, it doesn’t just shape how he moves through sports and school. It shapes what he thinks his future can be.
We talk through the rock bottom moment that forces a change, and the surprisingly simple first step that cracks the door open: an invitation to yoga. From there, Joshua walks us into the deeper work that transforms his health and mindset, including breath work, nervous system regulation, and cold water immersion. He explains how breath can shift us from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest, why cold exposure is really a practice for stress tolerance, and how the mantra “I am strong, I’m healthy, I’m capable” becomes a tool for rewiring identity in real time.
We also go beyond the body. Joshua shares what faith looks like when life falls apart, including the rise and fall of his ice bath company, and why he believes surrender can be a form of strength. If you’re curious about breathwork benefits, cold plunge benefits, mindset shifts, or healing from chronic pain and self-doubt, this conversation is both practical and deeply human.
Subscribe for more stories like this, share it with someone who needs encouragement, and leave a rating or review if the message lands. What’s one belief you’re ready to let go of?
To learn more about Joshua Church and his book, Cosmic Breadcrumbs, you can check out his website www.joshuadeanchurch.com or check him out on Instagram @joshuadeanchurch.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
What if the life that scares you is exactly what will set you free? I sit down with Kristy Halvorsen, a former firefighter who traded the predictable path for a solo, off-grid Airstream life driven by intuition, curiosity, and a willingness to not know what’s next. She calls it “coddiwompling,” traveling purposely to unknown destinations while staying open to every possibility, and it turns out to be a philosophy for living, not just a way to roam.
Kristy shares the turning points that made this leap real: a childhood rupture that quietly shaped her ability to love, the pride and intensity of the fire service, and the body-waking-up moment of injury that made “waiting for retirement” feel like a bad deal. We talk about the mental side of fear, the practical reality of being alone when things break, and the kind of freedom that only shows up when you stop outsourcing your courage. If you’re into solo travel stories, off-grid living, and mindset shifts that actually feel usable, you’ll find plenty to steal for your own life.
The conversation gets tender and powerful as Kristy opens up about grief and her mom’s death right before her book launched, the small signs that keep love close, and how gratitude can coexist with pain. She also tells the wild story of injury and illness in remote Newfoundland, plus the surprising joy of writing with radical vulnerability and discovering how truth gives other people permission to live.
If this hits something in you, grab Kristy’s book “Perfect Unfolding,” share this episode with a friend who needs a nudge, and please subscribe, rate, and review so more people can find The Human Adventure.
To learn more about Kristy and her book check out www.perfectunfolding.com and give her a follow on Instagram @kristy.halvorsen.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
237 - Melody Harman didn’t come to Utah for a postcard life, she came because staying put felt like drowning in reminders. After losing her dad following 70 days in the hospital, and carrying earlier grief from losing her brother as a teen, she hits that brutal stretch where your world looks “normal” on the outside but everything inside is rearranged. So we talk honestly about what it’s like when grief becomes a daily environment, not a single moment, and why a big change can be the first real breath you take.
We start with Melody’s roots in Jacksonville, Florida, then follow the path through school, career pressure, and the “success equals title” mindset that so many of us inherit. From there, we get into the heart of it: the decision to let go, the depression that followed, and the way nature can act like nervous system support when life feels too loud. Melody explains why hiking without headphones, listening to water and birds, and simply moving forward on a trail can create calm when your brain won’t.
Then we go full adventure mode with practical stories from Utah hiking and beyond. You’ll hear what Angel’s Landing is really like (permits, switchbacks, chains, crowds, heat, and real risk), plus her first backpacking trip to Havasu Falls and the lessons you only learn when you carry your life on your back. We also talk solo travel, self-trust, and what happens when you lose a corporate job and have to rebuild your identity, one “A to B” step at a time.
If you’ve been searching for stories about grief healing, outdoor therapy, Utah trails, Zion hikes, Angel’s Landing tips, backpacking lessons, or solo travel confidence, this conversation meets you where you are and gives you a clear next step. Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs it, and leave a rating or review so more people can find the show.
To learn more about Melody and follow her adventures be sure and give her a follow on Intagram @melody.onthemove.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
236 - The Darien Gap has a legend attached to it, but Daniel Eggington brings the parts that don’t fit the movie version: endless wet days, rivers fought step by step, fear used as a tool, and the mental math of staying alive when you’re deep in the jungle with no easy reset button. Daniel doesn’t chase comfort or bragging rights. He chases places where there’s no blueprint, because that’s where he learns fastest and where the story is earned instead of staged.
We start with the moment that set his trajectory: leaving the UK as a teenager for Sumatra after working at a zoo and falling in love with wildlife. From there we dig into expedition travel the way it actually works: preparing for snakes and insects, relying on locals for real knowledge, and keeping your impact low. Daniel shares his Guyana journey down the Essequibo River by dugout canoe, including encounters with local belief systems like Kanaima and how culture can shape safety choices as much as terrain does.
Then we go deep on the Darien, including geopolitical shifts, how different groups control different areas, why “permission” is part of the route, and what a truly miserable day looks like when you’re soaked, underfed, and still pushing forward. We also talk endurance training, why people choose suffering in controlled doses, and Daniel’s next massive goal: a first-of-its-kind Congo River walking expedition planned for 12 months or more, supported by a broader team and modern field comms.
If you’re into extreme adventure, jungle survival, expedition planning, and the mindset behind big goals, hit play, subscribe, and share this with someone who needs a push. After you listen, leave a review and tell us: what would your no-blueprint adventure be?
To learn more about Daniel Eggington and his upcoming expedition along the Congo River check out www.danieleggington.com and follow him on Instagram @danieleggington.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
235 - The woods “understood her” before she could understand herself, and Alison Monda’s story makes that feel less like poetry and more like a practical roadmap. She’s a full-time firefighter, a search and rescue volunteer, a musician, a longtime hiker, and someone who finally got an ADHD diagnosis that explained decades of feeling scattered, intense, and constantly in motion. When we sit down to talk, it turns into an honest look at what it means to build a life around adventure while also trying to build a brain that feels steady.
Alison doesn’t dodge the hard chapters. She talks about teen addiction, entering rehab at 19, and how sobriety forced her to relearn fun, connection, and self-respect. From there, hiking becomes more than a passion. It becomes outdoor therapy, a mental health reset, and one of the only places her mind reliably drops into a flow state. We get into solo backpacking, why it can feel freeing and terrifying, and how she thinks about safety as a woman alone on trail.
We also go deep on real backcountry moments: a bear encounter that spikes the fear meter, the difference between wildlife risk and news-cycle myths, and the rare but real “creepy human” situations that change how you camp. Along the way, Alison shares practical advice for getting started, including the 10 essentials, offline GPS tools like Gaia GPS and CalTopo, and when an SOS device like a Garmin inReach makes sense. Plus, we talk community on the Appalachian Trail, big-mile dreams like the PCT, and her memoir Fearless.
If you like stories about hiking for mental health, ADHD and resilience, addiction recovery, and the kind of adventure that’s messy in the moment but meaningful later, you’ll feel at home here. Subscribe to The Human Adventure, share this with a friend who needs a reset, and leave a quick rating or review so more people can find the show.
To follow along with Alison check her out on Instagram @get_the_f_outside. You can also get a copy of her book, Fearless, on Amazon.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
234 - Your childhood dream is supposed to save you, not send you to the burn ward. Dan Schlund is one of the rare people who has flown a real rocket belt, a true rocket motor strapped to your back with about 30 seconds of fuel, superheated thrust, and no room for hesitation. After his third flight off the training cable, a bad landing turns into a nightmare: he gets slammed into the ground, can’t shut the belt off, and is burned in the field until the crew can pull him free.
We talk about the long recovery, skin grafts, and the part that lingers even longer: anxiety and the mental scars that follow a catastrophic crash. Dan explains why he still chose to fly again, how stunt work taught him to never let your last run be a failure, and what it feels like to lift off under full throttle with a roaring crowd and a ticking fuel clock. Along the way, he shares global performance stories, including high pressure flights like the Rose Parade and surreal moments performing in Turkmenistan.
Then the dream ends hard with a later crash during a Guinness World Records flight, a neck injury, and the identity crash that comes when the applause disappears. Dan’s pivot is the plot twist: he rebuilds his life as a paramedic and founder of National Set Medics, helping protect cast and crew across film and TV productions nationwide. If you’ve ever faced a career change, burnout, or the question “who am I now,” this conversation brings both honesty and practical hope.
Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a reset, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.
To learn more about Dan check out www.rocketman.tv. You can also give him a follow on Instagram @rocketman.tv.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
233 - He thought he might do a couple years for breaking into fur farms. Instead, a DOJ press release tells him he’s facing animal enterprise terrorism and RICO-related charges with a maximum of 82 years. That’s the moment Peter Young goes from activist to full-time fugitive, living under a fake name, dodging fingerprints, and trying to build a life while the federal government waits for one mistake.
We trace Peter’s path from a middle-class childhood to punk rock politics, veganism, and underground animal rights activism. He explains how early actions escalated from petty sabotage to fur farm raids that released thousands of mink, and why he believed illegal direct action could force media attention when peaceful protest couldn’t. We also get into the uncomfortable questions that sit underneath the headline: how conviction changes your sense of right and wrong, how fear and adrenaline reshape decision-making, and what it means to accept consequences you never expected.
Then the story turns practical and personal. Peter describes the day-to-day logistics of life on the run, the close calls, and the arrest that finally ends it. We talk sentencing guidelines, why the “82 years” didn’t happen, what federal prison is really like, and how he rebuilt his identity afterward through writing and, surprisingly, entrepreneurship. If you’re interested in true crime stories with moral complexity, activism and extremism, risk psychology, and second acts after prison, this conversation stays with you.
Subscribe to The Human Adventure, share this episode with a friend who loves unforgettable real-life stories, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway.
To find out more about Peter Young check out www.peteryoung.me.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
232 - You think you know someone, then you hear what they had to survive. Calvin Bagley looks like the guy with the steady career and the good family, but as a kid he was literally taught to hide when the school bus came by so no one would discover he wasn’t being educated at all.
We talk through Calvin’s childhood in rural Utah with isolation, fear, and extremist beliefs that kept the world at a distance, plus the strange whiplash of showing up to church on Sundays and then returning to what he describes as hell at home. Instead of walking away from spirituality, Calvin explains how faith became his lifeline, and how his view of God slowly shifted from fear and anger to love, stability, and hope.
Then we trace the hard, practical path of adult education: learning to read with help from his sister, serving a mission in Brazil where learning Portuguese forced him to finally learn English structure, grinding for a GED, bombing the ACT, and getting into UNLV through an unconventional “non-admitted student” route. We also get into his years as a flight attendant, the impact of 9/11, the mentors who opened doors, and why he finally chose to tell the truth in his memoir, Hiding from the School Bus, including the boundaries and therapy that helped him stop living in hiding.
If Calvin’s story hits you, share it with someone who needs proof that healing and growth are possible, then subscribe and leave a review so more listeners can find Th Human Adventure.
To learn more about Calvin and to get a copy of his book check out www.hidingfromtheschoolbus.com. Calvin is also on Instagram @calvinbagley.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
231 - A passport full of stamps can look impressive, but what if the real point of travel is the people who crack you open and change how you see your life? I sat down with Melissa Rodway, author of The People You Meet, for an honest, funny, and surprisingly practical conversation about travel, connection, and what happens when we step outside our normal routines.
We talk about the strangers you never forget, including the bold older travelers who prove adventure has no expiration date. Melissa shares why travel can make you feel lighter and more present, and how a single day can swing from pure gratitude to deep loneliness. We also dig into why certain places feel like home, why others do not, and how your body knows the difference even when you cannot explain it.
Then we get real about travel ego and travel fatigue. If you have ever pushed a trip too far because you felt like you “should,” you will recognize the moment Melissa describes when travel starts feeling like work. We compare solo travel versus group travel, the hidden workload of constant decisions, safety concerns, and why active group trips with strangers can turn into a temporary family fast.
If you love adventure travel, solo travel stories, and conversations about living with more intention, this one will stick with you. Subscribe to The Human Adventure, share this episode with a friend who needs a nudge to do something brave, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
You can get a copy of Melissa's book, The People You Meet, on Amazon here. You can also follow Melissa on Instagram @fly_travel_media.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
230 - Ten Ironman distances in ten days sounds like a headline, but JD Tremblay treats it like a case study. JD is a military veteran, ultra-endurance athlete, and founder of Hungry Warrior Academy, and he joins me to explain how he became one of the rare finishers of the Epic Deca across the Hawaiian islands and why the real secret is not heroic motivation. It is structure, repeatable systems, and the decision to follow them when your mind is loud and your body is tired.
We get into the myth that the military “gives” discipline, and JD’s sharper take: the military gives structure, and you choose whether you live inside it. From there, we talk about building high performance without burning out, including energy regulation, nervous system shifts from sympathetic fight-or-flight to parasympathetic recovery, and why rest is not a reward but part of the plan. JD also shares his lens on starting versus quitting, the difference between DNS and DNF, and how a simple non-negotiable can become the first brick in a better life.
JD opens up about faith, identity, and community, including the moment his son reshapes how he thinks about who he is beyond titles and achievements. He also tells the rawer side of the Epic Deca journey: going into debt, selling his house to fund the race, and hitting a breaking point that forces humility. We even had to pause mid-interview due to an electrical outage, which ends up fitting the theme perfectly: adjust, come back, keep going.
If you want practical mindset tools, endurance training lessons, and a clearer definition of discipline you can apply to work, fitness, or family, hit play, then subscribe, share this with someone who needs encouragement, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
To learn more about JD and his work with Hungry Warrior Academy please visit www.hungrywarrioracademy.com. You can also follow along with JD on Instagram @jdtremblaytri and to learn more about his book, Hunger For More In Life, you can visit www.hunger4more.com.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
229 - He was face down in the ocean, paralyzed, and running out of time. Patrick Yalon went out for a routine surf at San Francisco’s Ocean Beach and never came back the same person and he’s honest about how close he came to not coming back at all.
We talk through the full arc: the low-tide wipeout that breaks his neck, the foggy scramble that ends with his friend finding him blue in the water, and the CPR that brings him back. From there it’s ICU uncertainty, brutal nerve pain, and a nine-and-a-half-hour spinal fusion from C3 to C5 with titanium hardware. Patrick doesn’t skip the dark parts: identity loss, depression, and the exhausting question of whether his body will ever work the way it used to.
Then the story pivots from survival to purpose. Patrick chooses a wildly specific goal for spinal cord injury recovery and resilience: Moab 240, one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world. He lines up just months after the accident, grinds out 144 miles in 2024, then travels to Thailand to keep healing through daily Muay Thai training, time in the mountains, and a search for meaning and faith. He also shares why helping others with similar accidents matters so much, and how finishing Moab 240 in 2025 through storms, mud, lightning, and sleep deprivation becomes a shared victory with the friend who saved his life.
Patrick is writing a memoir called Still Here and continues raising money and awareness for people impacted by spinal cord injuries. Subscribe to The Human Adventure, share this with someone who needs a reason to keep showing up, and leave a review if Patrick’s story hits home.
To follow along with Patrick's journey you can give him a follow on Instagram @bodiezepha415. For those runners out there on Strava just search for Patrick Yalon.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
228 - Rock bottom isn’t always a single catastrophic night. Sometimes it’s a slow drift: one more drink that becomes normal, one compromise that becomes routine, one secret that feels easier than the truth. Justin Kinney knows that drift firsthand, and he joins me to tell the full story of addiction, sobriety, and rebuilding a life from the ground up.
Justin is a high school strength and conditioning teacher, a coach, a husband, and a dad in a busy blended family. From the outside, he looked like he had everything handled: professional awards, respect in the community, even leadership in church. Behind closed doors, alcohol and drugs were taking control, shame was multiplying, and his marriage and health were breaking down in small moments that eventually became impossible to ignore. We talk about what “rock bottom” really felt like for him, why treatment only worked once he admitted he was powerless, and how the consequences didn’t magically disappear just because he got sober.
We also get practical. Justin shares the non negotiables that keep him steady: a consistent morning routine built on prayer, gratitude, reading, meditation, and movement, plus the mindset of getting 1% better each day. He explains how years of journaling turned into his book, From Rock Bottom to Redemption, a daily-lesson format focused on accountability, integrity, discipline, and the kind of character that’s built through small decisions over time.
If you or someone you love is searching for addiction recovery hope, faith-based sobriety tools, or a clear path to rebuilding after failure, this conversation will meet you where you are. Subscribe for more stories like this, share the episode with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help more people find The Human Adventure.
To learn more about Justin check him out on Instagram @justin_kinney_0609 and to get a copy of his book, From Rock Bottom to Redemption, you can check out Amazon.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
227 - What do you do when the person you love is gone before morning and you’re in a country that doesn’t feel fully like home yet? Chanoa Inez lived that question on the coast of Montenegro after her partner died suddenly overnight. The days that followed were filled with shock, language barriers, unfamiliar systems, and an unexpected web of support, and they set her on a seven-year chapter across the Balkans that would change everything about how she understands grief, identity, and resilience.
We talk about why she chose to stay in Europe instead of returning to Miami, how community and culture shaped her healing, and what long-haul grief can look like when it quietly rewires your routines, your boundaries, and even your health. Chanoa opens up about years of stress and food allergies, searching through meditation, yoga, and retreat work, and the moment she realized the missing piece was self-love. Along the way, we dig into negative self-talk, the “victim mindset” trap, and a powerful practice: don’t let a thought pass that you wouldn’t say to a friend.
Chanoa also shares the core message of her book, Dream On: reinvention is our birthright, and after loss we can learn to dream again, even if the dream has to be different. We explore purpose, imagination, and designing a life that pulls you forward, plus how her “inside-out” approach connects to personal branding and showing up as a real human instead of a robot. If you’re searching for grief healing, self-love practices, rebuilding after trauma, or how to move forward after losing a partner, this conversation is a grounded place to start. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs it, and leave a quick rating or review if the show helps you.
To learn more about Chanoa and her book please visit www.chanoainez.com.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
226 - You think you want to live abroad until you’re standing in a Shanghai apartment you barely recognize, sleeping on a mattress that feels like concrete, and realizing you can’t read a single sign outside your window. Jeff Lewis did exactly that, on a timeline so fast he had to get a same day passport and a same day visa just to make it happen. What started as a recession driven job scramble became four years of international teaching, culture shock, and the kind of growth you only get when your normal tools don’t work anymore.
We talk through the full arc of expat life in China: arriving alone while his wife waits on paperwork, learning the unwritten rules of traffic and daily errands, and figuring out how a newly married couple stays connected when everything around them is unfamiliar. Jeff shares what people romanticize about living abroad and what they leave out, from language barriers and “bad China days” to the strange comfort of tracking down a mediocre hamburger because it tastes like home. He also explains how travel around China worked before smartphones, and how those weekend adventures helped them stay sane and stay close.
Then the story gets even bigger: they move to a better international school, build community, and have their two oldest kids in China. Jeff gets honest about parenting abroad, hospital decisions, transportation challenges, and how cultural differences can complicate even basic support systems. We close with what he brings home to the United States as a social studies teacher, including a stronger world view and a deeper belief in second language learning for his own kids.
If you like stories about China, international schools, moving overseas, and the real psychology of stepping into the unknown, hit play. Subscribe, share this with a friend who dreams of expat life, and leave a review so more people can find The Human Adventure.
Be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
225 - A Baptist pastor walks away from a church he planted… and ends up kicking doors with SWAT as an FBI special agent. That’s the real-life career pivot Eric Robinson lived, and his story isn’t just a wild résumé line. It’s a clear look at how pressure, identity, and responsibility can build slowly until you finally admit the truth: you need a different path.
We talk through Eric’s early years in ministry, the surprising toll of carrying other people’s crises, and why the stress of law enforcement was easier for him to process than the stress of being a pastor. From there, he takes us behind the scenes of a 24-year FBI career: drug squads, gangs, public corruption, organized crime, crimes against children, counterterrorism, and what it means to run human sources who do not have to help but choose to anyway. If you’ve ever wondered what the FBI is really like beyond the Hollywood version, Eric gives an honest and often funny reality check.
We also get into SWAT training and why repetition matters, how agents handle the emotional weight of difficult cases, and what leadership looks like when you’re surrounded by smart self-starters. Eric closes with reflections on faith that’s been refined by experience, plus details on his upcoming book, Irreverend: From Saving Souls To Chasing Sinners In The FBI.
To follow Eric check out his Instagram account @_eric_robinson.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Subscribe for more human stories, share this with a friend who’s facing a career change, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
224 - Business advice usually starts with scaling, margins, and “hustle.” This conversation starts somewhere more honest: what is business for, and who does it actually serve?
We sit down with Edi Odura, an engineer turned entrepreneur and fractional COO who helps mission-driven founders build systems that don’t burn people out. Edi shares how growing up Ghanaian American shaped her relationship with security and risk, why operations is really about protecting the human side of a company, and what changes when you stop treating process like paperwork and start treating it like leadership. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your own growth, you’ll recognize the moment when a great product outpaces the systems meant to support it.
Edi also walks us through the bridge she’s building between Ghana and the US by placing vetted Ghanaian virtual professionals with founders stateside. We get into the practical realities of cross-cultural hiring, communication differences, and how to create clarity without losing kindness. Then we go deeper into regenerative business principles, contrasting them with extractive models that quietly profit from low wages, vague policies, or unequal power. The result is a grounded, actionable look at ethical outsourcing, sustainable operations, and values-driven entrepreneurship.
If you care about building a company with integrity, or rebuilding your own life after a major pivot, you’ll take something real from this. Subscribe for more conversations like this, share the episode with someone who’s building, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.
To learn more about Edith Oduraa check out her website https://edithoduraa.me/.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
223 - What does it take to stay teammates for 30 plus years while crossing borders, missing comforts, and choosing the hard route on purpose? I’m joined by John and Ann Craig Cinnamon, a travel power couple who’ve visited 120 plus countries on seven continents, and they’re honest about the part most people skip: real adventure travel can be exhausting, tense, and unpredictable, and that’s exactly why it changes you.
We dig into the way travel exposes personality fast, from idea-making to logistics to how you handle stress when plans break. John and Ann share the travel philosophy they call “While We’re In The Neighborhood,” why they rarely visit just one country at a time, and how experiences like the Running of the Bulls, Oktoberfest, and the Trans-Siberian Railway became markers in a life built on curiosity. Their all-time favorite story is a Himalayas trek from Kathmandu toward Mount Everest, where tea houses, altitude, a local guide, and even a hard-earned scar turned a difficult hike into a memory they still revisit.
The conversation also goes deep on authentic travel and human connection: meeting locals in Cambodia who insisted on giving a gift in return, laughing with a Mongolian guide who loved NBA shooters, navigating political conversations abroad, and facing fear during a Moscow airport interrogation. If you care about couple travel, travel storytelling, and the mindset behind meaningful trips, you’ll leave with both practical perspective and a bigger heart for the world.
Check out their book, Travel Is No Vacation: A Love Story, then subscribe, share this with someone you’d travel with, and leave a review so more people can find The Human Adventure.
To learn more about the Cinnamons and their book check out www.travelisnovacation.com.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
222 - When was the last time you let yourself dream without limits, not as a cute idea, but as a serious practice that could change your life? I sit down with Jason VanDevere, an entrepreneur, planner creator, and author of Dream Driven, to talk about what happens when you walk away from the “sure thing” and build a life that actually fits.
Jason grew up in Akron, Ohio in a big family with a cow farm and a car dealership legacy. After college he entered the dealership track with a clear path to long-term success, but the deeper he went, the clearer it became that he needed something else. We unpack how a simple search for better time management and goal setting tools turned into a planner business, and why the early years felt brutal even while the product was selling.
We go beyond tactics into mindset and meaning. Jason opens up about fear of failure, the rush of doing too much, and the surprising idea that we can get addicted to stress and inadequacy. From there, the conversation moves into faith and Catholic spirituality, daily prayer and journaling, and the power of silent retreats for clarity. We also break down his “dream-driven” approach to entrepreneurship, why focus beats endless options, and how family boundaries reshaped his definition of success.
If you’re chasing goals but feel stuck in survival mode, hit play, then share this with a friend who needs a spark. Subscribe, follow, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
To learn more about Jason and get a copy of his book, Dream Driven, check out his website www.goalcrazy.com. You can also check out his Instagram channel @jasonvandevere.
To learn more about me and see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
221 - A one-way ticket sounds romantic until you’re standing in a foreign airport, exhausted, hungry, and convinced you’ve made a huge mistake. That’s where Tracy Smith’s story gets real and why it’s so relatable. After a divorce, years of nonstop parenting, and a career grind that left little room to breathe, she finally chooses herself and discovers that freedom can feel like fear at first.
We talk about what actually led to that first leap to Iceland and how one impulsive booking turned into a multi-country sprint through Iceland, Denmark, Norway, and Ireland. Tracy shares the messy details most people leave out: the panic of being lost, the running inner commentary, and the moment she realizes she has to stop asking whether she “deserves” to be there. From there, travel becomes a mirror for identity, especially as the empty nest edges closer and her work identity starts to wobble.
You’ll also hear how she travels “solo” in a practical way, planning logistics and often hiring private guides for deeper context, connection, and safety. And yes, we get into the monkey scratch in Bali, the rabies-shot scramble, and how being a mom stays in the back of her mind even while she’s chasing adventure. Tracy’s book, The Purpose of Getting Lost, ties it all together with the episode’s biggest takeaway: permission is a skill you can practice.
If Tracy’s message hits home, subscribe to The Human Adventure, share this with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find these stories.
To learn more about Tracy and her book check out her website www.tracysmithauthor.com and check her out on social media @tracytravelseverywhere on both Facebook and Instagram.
I would love to have you join The Human Adventure Community on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
220 - Behind every great joke is a real story and Danny Johnson’s story explains why his stand-up feels both clean and dangerously close to losing its cool. We talk about how he grew up in a loud Long Island family where roasting was basically a love language, and how that early chase for attention turned into a lifelong craft built on timing, authenticity, and connection. If you’ve ever wondered what makes an audience laugh at the exact same moment, Danny breaks it down in plain terms.
We get nerdy about the comedy writing process: how a quick idea becomes a real bit, why research matters more than people think, and how Danny uses “filters” to find new angles on everyday frustrations. He also shares one of the most underrated tools in public speaking and stand-up comedy: silence. The pause can be the laugh, and learning to embrace it can change the entire energy of a room.
Then we go personal. Danny opens up about weight swings, rebuilding confidence, eating well while traveling, and quitting drinking after realizing his time wasn’t matching his goals. We also talk about the upside and difficulty of clean comedy, corporate gigs, church venues, and why he’s focused on growing an engaged social media audience with original material, plus more voiceover and acting work. If you like interviews about creativity, resilience, and what it takes to make people feel better for an hour, you’ll leave with practical insight and a lot of laughs.
Subscribe to The Human Adventure, share this with a friend who needs a laugh, and leave a review so more people can find the show. What’s a comedy habit or life habit you want to steal from Danny?
To learn more about Danny check out his website www.dannyjohnson.com and check him out on Instagram or other social media outlets @dannyjohnsoncomedy. To can also check out his comedy special on YouTube here.
To see clips from past, present, and even future episodes of The Human Adventure give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod and check out my YouTube channel @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
219 - A million-dollar decision can look a lot like a random pop-up ad and a quick, messy “why not?” Alex Boylan went from being a preacher’s kid on the North Shore of Boston to winning Season 2 of The Amazing Race, and that victory didn’t just change his bank account, it rewired his definition of work, purpose, and adventure. We talk through the early travel experiences that shaped him, the real dynamics of racing with his best friend Chris, and the pressure-cooker moments where relationships, strategy, and grit matter more than perfect plans.
What sticks with me most is how Alex turns discomfort into a skill you can actually practice. He shares the behind-the-scenes realization that opened a whole new career path: travel producing and storytelling. From moving to Los Angeles with no roadmap, to betting on mentors and the right environment over job titles, his journey is packed with practical lessons for anyone navigating a career pivot, chasing a creative dream, or trying to feel alive again after getting stuck in routine.
We also dig into Around The World For Free, the early interactive travel series that helped pioneer web-based travel storytelling before social media made it easy, and how that project evolved into bigger opportunities. Then we shift to what he’s building now with The College Tour on Amazon Prime, a show designed to help families explore colleges and higher education options without the cost of constant campus travel, plus his book The Miles That Make You and the life lessons he wants to pass on.
If you care about adventure, personal growth, mindset, travel, human connection, and building a meaningful life through calculated risk, hit play. Subscribe to The Human Adventure, share this with a friend who needs a push, and leave a review so more people find the show. What’s one small discomfort you’ll choose this week?
To learn more about Alex and get a copy of his book you can visit www.alexboylan.com and if you want to follow Alex on Instagram check out @boylanalex.
To see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod. You can also watch full length on YouTube @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
218 - At 92, Jim Paulk doesn’t sound like someone looking back. He sounds like someone still chasing the next idea, the next project, the next person worth learning from. Our conversation starts with a dream delayed, how a kid from Brunswick, Georgia missed his Naval Academy appointment, kept pushing, then got the call that changed everything. From day one at Annapolis, Jim learns what many of us learn the hard way: you don’t need a perfect plan, you need the willingness to keep choosing forward.
We follow Jim through a life of service and reinvention, from qualifying on submarines to building a second career at Procter & Gamble. Then the story swerves into marine conservation in Southern California, where he’s asked to take over a struggling gill net initiative and turn it into a winning campaign. Jim breaks down what leadership looks like when the clock is real: rallying volunteers, creating momentum, earning media, raising money, and building programs that actually last, including fish hatchery work that produces measurable results decades later.
The heart of the conversation is storytelling and relationships. Jim’s book, Shaking Up the World, collects 80 true stories by 59 Naval Academy classmates from the class of 1957, from “janitor to admiral” to survival through WWII internment camps to astronaut Charlie Duke’s Apollo 16 memories. Jim also shares how he met his wife Pat and why love and friendship are the ultimate measure of a life well lived. He donates all royalties to charity, because giving back is the point.
Subscribe for more human stories, share this with someone who loves leadership and history, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
To get a copy of Jim's book, Shaking Up the World, check out Amazon.
Get connected with The Human Adventure. Check out my website www.thehamanadventure.net and give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
217 - What does it take to leave one life, build another, and then wager it all on saving a species? We sit down with Nigel Mason, whose path runs from blitz-era London to the beaches of Bali, from music PR to pioneering “armchair rafting,” and finally to a 30-year fight to protect Sumatran elephants. His story blends grit, heartbreak, and stubborn hope as he turns a sanctuary into a living classroom and proves that hands-on adventure can fuel real conservation.
Nigel opens up about the early wins and the gut-punch losses: a government order that shuttered his booming rafting business, the grind of rebuilding, and the shock of seeing elephants wasting away in Sumatra’s deforestation crisis. He shares the rescue convoys behind Operation Jumbo, the science and care that guide his team, and why he ended elephant rides while doubling down on close, ethical encounters—hand feeding, bathing, guided walks, and deep education. Along the way, we meet the true heartbeat of the park: mahouts who know each elephant by mood and memory, including a reunion after five years apart that says everything about trust.
This conversation goes beyond slogans. We talk palm oil and pulpwood, tourism that pays for welfare and veterinary care, and the tension between online outrage and on-the-ground responsibility. Nigel’s sanctuary is a designed jungle with lakes, treetop paths, and a museum that makes conservation tangible. COVID nearly erased it; debt and determination kept the herd safe. Through it all, Nigel’s focus is legacy—family ready to lead, a local industry he helped ignite, and a sanctuary built to outlast controversy.
If you care about ethical wildlife tourism, elephant welfare, or how adventure can drive conservation, this one will stay with you. Listen, share with a friend who loves travel or animals, and tell us: what does “ethical” look like to you? And if the story moved you, follow, rate, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
To learn more about Nigel and Mason Adventures be sure to check out www.masonadventures.com and check out their Instagram account @masonadventuresbali.
To see clips from past, current and upcoming episodes and to learn about me (Jake) on a personal level give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
216 - What does it really take to walk away from a steady paycheck and bet on your art? We sit down with singer-songwriter Nora Suknaic to trace the messy, exhilarating path from a corporate tour marketing job to a life built around honest songs, late-night writing sessions, and the small victories that keep a dream alive. Nora opens up about the moment she knew routine was crowding out purpose, the jolt of seeing “daylight” after quitting, and the tough shift from being told what to do to telling yourself the truth and doing it anyway.
Across our conversation, we explore the forces that shape a creative life—fear, faith, and mental health—without sugarcoating the hard parts. Nora talks about writing from lived experience, why her ballads lean sad, and how performing turns personal grief into shared healing. She breaks down the kindness-first approach that makes networking in Nashville feel human, the collaborative spark with producer Aidan Gray that brought 80s nostalgia to “Since I’ve Been Gone,” and the way friendship heartbreak sometimes cuts deeper than romance. We also get practical: routines that work, how to hold yourself accountable, finding rounds and collaborators, and redefining success as sustainable connection rather than stadiums.
There’s a vulnerable clarity to Nora’s story: confidence as practice, prayer as reset, and success as rooms where people lean in and say “me too.” If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too risky to chase the thing that won’t leave you alone, this conversation offers a map and a mirror. Listen, share with a friend who needs courage, and then tell us: what leap are you ready to take? Subscribe, leave a quick review, and help these stories travel further.
To learn more about Nora and her music check her out on Instagram @its_justnora and check out her website www.itsjustnora.com.
To see clips of my guests and to get to know me on my personal level check me out on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
215 - Some adventures test your legs; others test your soul. We sit down with D Paul Fleming—a Navy veteran, Native American healer, and self-described hollow bone—to explore a life spent between worlds: military discipline on one side, spiritual warfare on the other. What begins with a hard childhood and a near-death moment at sea unfolds into a candid look at gifts he didn’t want, a calling he couldn’t refuse, and the thin line where free will decides everything.
D Paul shares how he learned to stop blocking what moved through him and to trust intent as the engine of prayer and change. He describes clearing spaces and people, the day he dropped his protection and met a serpent-like presence that came for his soul, and the fierce lesson that followed. We walk through a startling healing story involving a couple, a malachite stone, and an ultrasound that turned despair into relief. We step into the haunted corridors of a New England inn, police logs stacked with centuries of sightings, and a writing process guided by voices that ask to be heard.
Threaded through is lineage and language: his great-grandmother’s walk back to ancestral ground, parallels he sees between Native cosmology and the Christian trinity, and a sober take on titles that feel more like duty than applause. D Paul holds the tension with humor and love, arguing those two are the best tools any healer—or human—has. He won’t rewrite his past; every scar trained him for work that requires courage, humility, and the refusal to flinch when darkness tests the door.
If stories of spiritual healing, Native American heritage, paranormal investigation, and the power of intent spark your curiosity, press play and join us. Subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review to help more listeners find conversations that challenge, comfort, and surprise. What part moved you most?
You can get a copy of D Paul Flemings book, Mystery's at the Windham Inn, on Amazon.
To see some clips from the show and see who is coming up on The Human Adventure give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
214 - What if the lowest point isn’t a dead end but a doorway? That’s the charge at the heart of our conversation with ultrarunner and dance dad John Calabrese, who traded alcohol and anxiety for sunrise miles, grassroots races, and a community that made space for the mess and the miracle. John takes us from Navy service during 9/11 to the long, uneasy middle where divorce and two DUIs forced a reckoning—and how running became a daily anchor, not a quick fix.
We go deep on the mental game that defines ultrarunning: why DNFs can be teachers, how to crawl out of the pain cave when dark thoughts hit at mile 70, and the surprising ways anger can be channeled into forward motion. John opens up about balancing training with fatherhood, building a life around dance competitions and last‑minute race entries, and the unglamorous logistics that make or break 100‑milers—drop bags, headlamps, sleep deprivation, and the sacred joy of seeing another headlamp after hours alone in the woods. He shares strategies from the Wild Oak 100, lessons from finishing and failing there, and the rule of thumb that keeps him honest about cutoffs and recovery.
We also explore the state of the sport: the pull between UTMB-era spectacle and the magic of low-cost, community-built events where a car trunk doubles as an aid station. John admits he has a road runner’s engine and a trail runner’s soul, dreams out loud about Badwater, Western States, and maybe one day Barkley, and makes the case that purpose beats pace every time. If you’re feeling stuck—whether with alcohol, identity, or the grind of daily life—his message is simple and fierce: don’t quit the thing you love, take one step, and run your race on your terms.
Subscribe, share this with a friend who needs a nudge, and leave a review with your favorite takeaway—what mental trick gets you through your hardest miles?
Be sure and give John a follow on Instagram @breezytrailhead. You can also learn more about the Human Adventure by giving me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
213 - A hurricane on New Year’s Day, a shredded tent, and a sudden slide toward hypothermia at 1,600 meters—Belinda Coker’s Canary Islands traverse didn’t go to plan. That sharp turn, and her decision to bail out, reveals the heartbeat of this conversation: how true adventure balances awe with judgment, and how choosing safety can be the bravest move on the trail.
We walk back to Belinda’s roots in New Zealand, where tramping was part of school life, then through years of work and parenting that muted her spark. A pandemic mirror moment sent her back to dirt: sunrise hikes, then multi-day routes across Australia’s red centre, where Indigenous stories and women’s spaces shape how she moves through country. She takes us to Greenland’s Arctic Circle Trail, tracing Inuit hunting paths from ice to sea, learning to read cairns, and soaking in a silence so complete it resets your nervous system.
Threaded through every mile is a practical guide to hiking safety and self-reliance. Belinda breaks down wilderness first aid, recognizing the danger of core shivers, navigating when electronics fail, and why snakebite treatment differs between Australia and the U.S. She also shares a smart, sustainable way to fund long seasons on foot: house sitting. By caring for homes and pets, she and her partner remove lodging costs, cook real food, and settle into neighborhoods from Scotland to Spain. If tents aren’t your thing, we explore hut-to-hut and inn-to-inn options across Europe and New Zealand’s hut network, including Camino routes that keep packs light and spirits high.
Come for the storm story; stay for the blueprint of a second act that blends grit, gratitude, and slow, immersive travel. If this sparks your feet and your planning brain, tap follow, share the episode with a trail-curious friend, and leave a review so more people can find these human adventures.
To learn more about Belinda be sure and check out her website www.soultreader.com and also her Instagram @soultreader. If House Sitting sparks your interest check out housesittingcollective.com.
To see some clips from past, current, and upcoming shows check out my Instagram page @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
212 - Growth doesn’t arrive with a trophy. It often shows up as friction, confusion, and the stubborn urge to fix other people. With therapist Casey Stevens, we explore why discomfort is the doorway to becoming, how the subconscious scripts our choices, and what changes when you stop rescuing and start taking radical responsibility for your life. Casey shares her own turning points—early marriage, a crisis that led her to therapy, the heartbreak of loss, and the identity collapse that followed—and how those crucibles reshaped her work and worldview.
We dig into the mechanics of the subconscious and why so much of who we are is formed before age seven. Casey breaks down how to reverse inherited programming by elevating lowercase-c awareness into capital-C Consciousness: clarifying values, ranking them in a true hierarchy, and living in alignment so anxiety and indecision lose their grip. She also names a trap many of us fall into—the rescuer pattern on the drama triangle—and offers a better path built on consent, dignity, and self-governance rather than control.
What might sound like opposites—science and spirituality—become complementary tools in Casey’s practice. Neuroscience explains patterns and plasticity; spirituality restores meaning, faith, and intuition. We talk about rebuilding trust with yourself after early fractures, listening for the quiet signal beneath fear, and transforming post-traumatic stress into post-traumatic growth. Pain becomes a teacher, not a life sentence. Comfort maintains; discomfort transforms. If you’re craving practical, compassionate guidance to move from autopilot to agency, this conversation will meet you where you are and invite you forward.
If this resonates, connect with Casey at shrinkbigger.com and on Instagram @shrinkbigger. And if you found value here, subscribe, share this episode with a friend who’s ready to grow, and leave a quick review—your support helps more people find these conversations.
To connect with me send me a message on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
211 - Some histories whisper when they should thunder. We sit down with Jenny Chan, co‑founder of Pacific Atrocities Education, to listen—really listen—to the Pacific Front of World War II and the millions of lives bound up in it. From the euphemism of “comfort women” to the cold precision of Unit 731, from the Bataan Death March to the Rape of Nanking and Sook Ching in Singapore, we trace how violence moved through bodies, borders, and generations, and why so much of it slipped the Western gaze.
Jenny shares how a family box of military yen opened a door to declassified archives, survivor testimonies, and a mission to preserve stories before they disappear. We talk about what reconciliation means while shrines still honor war criminals, how immunity deals and postwar politics shaped public memory, and why the number thirty million needs human faces to be understood. Along the way, we explore fragile archives crumbling faster than they can be digitized, the ethics of telling trauma with care, and the small acts of resistance that kept hope alive in POW camps and occupied cities.
This conversation is honest and heavy, but it’s also full of light—students winning history competitions with documentaries on Unit 731, survivors finding their voice after decades of silence, and a growing community determined to remember. If you’ve ever sensed a gap in what you were taught about World War II, this is your invitation to fill it with facts, voices, and empathy.
Subscribe, share this episode with someone who loves history, and leave a review to help more listeners find these untold stories. Then tell us: which story surprised you most, and what will you remember tomorrow?
To learn more about Jenny Chan and Pacific Atrocities Education please visit www.pacificatrocities.org. You can also learn more on Youtube @pacificfrontuntold and on Instagram @pacificatrocitiesedu.
To learn more about The Human Adventure and see some clips from past, current, and future shows check out my Instagram account @humanadventurepod.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
210 - What if travel wasn’t a checklist but a classroom? I sat with Joy Owens—mother of two, CEO and co-owner of Butler Travel, and veteran of 60 countries—to explore how faith, service, and slow travel can shape a family and a life. From a grandmother who’s visited more than 80 countries to Joy’s first trip at three months old, her story moves through mission work in Zambia and Kenya, a scrappy road journey toward Argentina, and a solo $10-a-day push to Panama that turned from a rat-infested night into radical hospitality.
Joy walks us through teaching in Honduras and Taiwan, the culture shock of moving to Alaska, and why she and her husband bought Butler Travel to serve nonprofits and missionaries with complex ticketing and group logistics. She shares a gripping emergency reroute for a family in Tanzania that helped their daughter reach lifesaving care, and she opens up about surrendering control when December bills loomed, only to witness the agency’s busiest month on record. For Joy, faith isn’t an accessory; it’s how she navigates risk, money, parenting, and purpose.
We also dig into the messy magic of traveling with little kids: babies on planes during the quiet months of 2020, a six-week Europe adventure with bikes and tents, and the art of choosing your hard when tantrums and missed trains collide. Joy makes the case for slow travel—one hub, deeper days, fewer repacks—and tells unforgettable stories, from crossing open water in foldable kayaks to a budget misadventure on a Greek island complete with a kindly, very unbothered nude local offering fruit and cheese.
If you lead mission trips, plan family journeys, or crave meaningful travel that builds resilience and empathy, this conversation is your map. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves adventure, and leave a review to tell us: what trip changed you most?
To learn more about Joy check out www.butlertravel.com and use the code JAKE10 to get a 10% discount. You can also follow Joy and Butler Travel on Instagram @butlertravel1.
You can follow me and the podcast on Instagram @humanadventurepod and check out my website www.thehumanadventure.net.
209 - Conversations feel brittle right now, and disagreements can feel like stepping onto a minefield. We sit down with artist, educator, and traveler David Deighton to explore a different path: using art, curiosity, and face-to-face dialogue to turn political tension into human connection. From a pop-up “museum” on the rim of the Grand Canyon to quiet miles in the backcountry, David shares how intentional design and slow travel can lower the temperature and raise the quality of our conversations.
David’s method is simple and powerful. He builds installations that reveal our invisible boxes—our limited worldviews—and then invites strangers to talk through three non-triggering questions. No debating. No dunks. Just listening for one shared emotion and letting that become the bridge. He even trains attention with a sensory twist: ask what a word like “hope” tastes like. It sounds strange, but it pulls the brain out of fight mode and back into presence.
We also lean into travel as recovery. After dozens of conversations, David hikes into wilderness to process and reset. Public lands become a civic commons where dialogue can breathe, and wilderness rules mirror good conversation: slow down, limit noise, pay attention. Along the way, we unpack why he starts with politics, how Triptych Dialogue took its name from a centuries-old art panel with missing scenes, and what it takes to move from activist anger to patient curiosity.
If you’ve felt exhausted by outrage, this conversation offers tools you can use today: ask better questions, listen for emotions, practice with a neighbor, and take a walk before you reply online. Subscribe for more human-centered stories, share this with someone who needs hope, and leave a review to help others find the show. Who will you try the three questions with first?
Be sure and give David a follow on YouTube @triptych-dialogue and check out his website www.triptychdialogue.com To see some clips from past, present, and even future guests check out The Human Adventure on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
208 - A helicopter door swung open over Vietnam, and years later a trail opened underfoot across the Appalachians. That arc—war to wilderness, adrenaline to stillness—frames Ron Timmerman’s rare story of brotherhood, love, loss, and the long work of healing. We invited Ron to unpack the moments that shaped him: flying Hueys as a teenage door gunner, returning with unspoken trauma, and building a life with Edie, a fierce and generous mother of seven whose faith defined their home.
Ron’s voice is steady as he talks about caregiving through Edie’s stroke, the quiet after she passed, and the decision to hike the Appalachian Trail with his brother Rand and stepson Rick. They disagreed, found a structure that respected different paces, and in the process became closer than they’d been in decades. Along the way, the trail offered proof that meaning can arrive unannounced—a brilliant doorway of light on a bleak Father’s Day, the sudden drift of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” from a stranger’s earbuds, and countless small moments of service that stitched the miles together.
What stands out is the ethic that carried Ron through: stay busy with purpose, help others when you can, and keep faith when the map goes dark. He shares practical wisdom for navigating grief, the value of simple kindness on and off the trail, and the way Rand turned his own recovery into daily service for people who needed a voice on the line. If you’re wrestling with loss, searching for direction, or simply craving a human story that rings true, this conversation offers both grit and grace in equal measure.
Subscribe for more stories of resilience and connection, share this episode with someone who needs it, and leave a review to help others find The Human Adventure. Your support helps these stories travel farther.
To see clips and get updates from the show be sure to give me a follow on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
207 - One phone call redirected a life. When Matt Harmody’s father entered emergent dialysis, Matt saw both the power and the limits of modern medicine—and it set him on a path from corporate engineer to emergency physician, living kidney donor, and advocate who ties purpose to action in unforgettable ways. We trace that journey from the earliest signs of kidney disease to a courageous decision to donate to a stranger, and then to the mountains where advocacy turns into motion: Kilimanjaro with a team of donors and a Guinness World Record campaign to reach the highest point in all 50 states in 41 days.
We dig into the realities few people see: why hypertension and diabetes quietly erode kidney function, how dialysis extends life but extracts a heavy toll, and why living donor kidneys typically last longer and require fewer medications. Matt explains today’s safeguards for donors—rigorous screening, prioritization if a donor ever needs a kidney, wage and travel protections, and even voucher programs to help family members in the future—so the decision rests on facts, not fear. He also shares the practical side of life post-donation: smarter hydration, avoiding NSAIDs, and the surprising truth that donors routinely return to high performance across endurance and strength sports.
Then comes the adventure. Starting with Denali’s brutal cold and thin air, the team navigated storms, snow-choked trailheads, RV logistics, and a thousand tiny delays that can sabotage a long project. Strategy shifts, reroutes, and relentless teamwork kept the mission alive, each summit doubling as a platform to raise awareness for living kidney donation. Along the way, trailhead reunions with donors and recipients, hot meals from strangers, and stories from dialysis patients stitched community into every mile.
If you’ve wondered what it really takes to donate, or how purpose can reshape a career and redefine adventure, this story will stay with you. Hear the science, the safeguards, and the soul of a movement that saves lives—then consider sharing this episode with someone who needs it. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us: what moment moved you most?
To learn more about Matt Harmody and to get a copy of his book, Ascending America, check out his website www.mattharmodymd.com and you can also see some posts regarding the record breaking feat of peaking in every state by following checking out Instagram @50k50ss.
To learn more about the Human Adventure and see some clips and stories from me check out my Instagram page @humanadventurepod.
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
206 - What if the voices you let in are steering your life more than your goals are? That question sparked a wide-ranging, grounded conversation with Sagar Soni—nuclear engineer, creator of Beyond the Speech podcast, and a traveler who learned the hard way that more content and more checklists don’t equal meaning. We trace his path from bingeing self-help at 1.5x to a simple, liberating switch: trade “I have to” for “I get to,” and watch momentum return without the pressure cooker of perfection.
We dig into overwhelm and how to spot it, the subtle difference between being burnt out and being avoidant, and why a little “productive negativity” can get you off the couch when motivational quotes won’t. Sagar shares a daily two-part question—“How am I feeling right now, and why?”—that turns vibes into data and helps you find what drains your energy and what gives it back. We also talk books that endure, from Ryan Holiday’s stoicism to Cameron Hanes’ Endure, and how to move from collecting ideas to actually living them.
Travel threads through the episode like a second heartbeat. Sagar reflects on early all-inclusives, photo-heavy Europe, and the trip that changed everything: hiking Hawaii’s lava fields and practicing presence. The takeaway is clear and human: it’s neither the journey nor the destination—it’s the company. That conviction grew stronger through real hardship as he and his wife navigated miscarriages, using travel to reset, and later building guardrails like always answering calls from family and friends after moving far from home.
We close by looking forward: Sagar’s “three relationships” framework—self, purpose, and people—now guides his podcast and his next leap into public speaking, including a confirmed TEDx talk. If you’ve ever felt behind, flooded by advice, or stuck between big dreams and real life, this conversation offers practical tools and honest encouragement. Listen, share with a friend who grounds you, and if it resonates, subscribe and leave a quick review so more people can find these stories.
To learn more about Sagar Soni check out his podcast Beyond the Speech wherever you listen to podcasts and be sure to give him a follow on Instagram @sagarsoni_1991.
I would love to have you follow along on my Instagram account as well @humanadventurepod. Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
205 - Some stories don’t just move you—they recalibrate your sense of what’s possible. Adriene Caldwell grew up in the crosshairs of untreated schizophrenia, constant relocation, and a home life that spun from denial to violence. After losing the grandmother who shielded her, she entered a foster system that should have offered stability and instead delivered degradation: separate dishes, floor seating, and rules designed to remind her she didn’t belong. The stats she shares are brutal—one in five inmates are former foster youth, seven in ten foster girls have a child by 21, and fewer than three percent use free college benefits—but the real shock is how incentives often reward keeping kids “high need” rather than helping them heal.
What changed her trajectory was a lifeline she claimed for herself: a coveted congressional exchange to Germany. There, a host family modeled warmth, boundaries, and trust. Adriene learned German the hard way—by speaking it every day—aced tough classes at a college-track school, and felt the shift that happens when someone insists you sit in the front seat for the view. Returning stateside just shy of 18, she found no plan waiting and wrote letters up the chain until one emerged. Along the way, a third-grade math teacher delivered hotel toiletries to a housing project, and a fierce English teacher stocked her classroom with computers and left one to Adriene before she died. Those acts—practical, personal, and precisely timed—became stepping stones to scholarships and a future she couldn’t yet picture.
We also explore why Adriene wrote Unbroken, Life Outside the Lines, and how revisiting old case files forced a reckoning with both the parts of survival that became manipulation and the parts that deserve pride. Her message to teens at the edge is simple and urgent: your life won’t always look like this, and soon your choices will shape what comes next—numbing or healing, hiding or asking, repeating or rebuilding.
If this conversation resonates, share it with someone who needs proof that change is possible. Subscribe for more human-centered stories, rate the show to help new listeners find us, and tell us: what moment shifted your path?
To learn more about Adriene and her book check out www.unbronkencaldwell.com and check her out on Instagram @unbrokencaldwell.
You can also find more information about the show at www.thehumanadventure.net and check out my Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
Travel gets interesting when you stop speeding past real life. I sat down with Miyuki Seguchi—licensed guide, former journalist, and host of the Japan Experts podcast—to unpack how small cultural details and mindful planning turn a Japan itinerary into a human adventure. From a monolingual childhood in central Japan to studying in the UK and a formative solo trip to Italy, Miyuki shares how early sparks of curiosity became a mission to help travelers connect with people, not just places.
We explore what most visitors miss between Tokyo and Kyoto: central Japan’s living craft traditions, original samurai castles, and communities that still shape metal, paper, textiles, and ceramics by hand. Miyuki explains why overtourism strains big-name cities while rural regions hold deep culture but fewer English supports—and how travelers can bridge that gap with respect, patience, and simple etiquette. You’ll learn practical insights that matter on the ground: why public trash bins are rare, how to move through ryokan and tatami rooms, what onsen manners communicate, and how to ride trains without stress. These aren’t rules for rules’ sake; they’re keys that unlock warmth, trust, and the kind of conversations you remember years later.
If you’re planning your first visit—or returning to go beyond the postcards—Miyuki breaks down smarter itineraries, logistics that save time, and the mindset that turns workshops, studios, and castle towns into meaningful experiences. We also dig into how to choose less-visited stops without sacrificing comfort, and how a single detour can reframe your entire trip. Come for the travel tips, stay for the stories that reveal how culture lives in daily routines, shared meals, and the careful hands of artisans.
Ready to travel deeper, not wider? Subscribe to The Human Adventure, share this episode with a friend who loves Japan, and leave a quick review so more curious travelers and adventurers can find us.
If you want to learn more about Miyuki and what she offers check out www.miyukiseguchi.com and get her free Japan travel guide that shares 7 ways to make your trip more authentic and memorable. You can also follow her on Instagram @japan.experts and check out her podcast Japan Experts to learn more.
Be sure and join The Human Adventure community by following me on Instagram @humanadventurepod.
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
203 - What if the scary dream is the one that sets you free? That’s the spark behind our conversation with singer-songwriter and outdoor enthusiast Emily Hicks—a Midwesterner who found her artistic voice in the shadow of Utah’s mountains and the flow of the Green River. Emily traces her path from a shy choir kid to a piano major, from elementary music teacher to full-time performer, and the many small, brave asks that turned busking into real gigs and a steady career. Along the way we dig into how three chords taught her to keep going, why stage banter is a craft of its own, and how long bar sets can train a voice like any other muscle.
We also explore the places where art and nature meet. Emily shares how trails give her mind room to breathe, how campfires invite honesty, and why her next EP leans on outdoor metaphors—switchbacks, weather windows, and the grind to the summit. Nashville shows up as a sharpening stone: songwriter rounds, co-writing sessions, and the hard decision to keep her best songs for herself. Her niche keeps revealing itself in unexpected places, like a women’s yoga and music rafting trip where she played a carbon fiber guitar on the river and watched strangers become community under the stars.
Threaded through it all is resilience. Emily talks frankly about rejection, the importance of choosing rooms that fit, and the trust it takes—for yourself, from partners and friends—to keep moving toward the work that lights you up. If you’re craving a boost of courage, a reminder to step outside, and a soundtrack to match, you’ll feel at home here. Subscribe, share this with someone who needs a nudge, and leave a review to help these stories climb a little higher. Then queue up “Weird Wild Wonderful You” and tell us which lyric stays with you.
To learn more about Emily Hicks check out her website www.emilyhicksmusic.com or follow her on Instagram @emilyhicksmusic.
Be sure and give me a follow as well @humanadventurepod.
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
202 - What if one hard rule could change the way you face everything from headwinds to heartbreak? I sat down with author and adventurer Teri Brown to unpack how a 3,102-mile tandem bike ride across America helped her leave an abusive past, reclaim her voice, and build a set of life rules sturdy enough to carry her through grief.
Starting in Astoria and crossing Lolo Pass into Big Sky country, Teri and her husband Bruce pedaled through pandemic uncertainty, logistics stress, and days so hot the road rippled. Riding tandem forced a new kind of honesty: shared cadence, three-count stand breaks, and zero room for simmering resentment. A Dollar General parking lot became a place to name a hurt and move on. Montana gifted them wonder—horses racing uphill beside them, the Milky Way hanging close, and Comet NEOWISE blazing a tail across the night sky. Those moments of awe refueled their grit when flats stacked up and the wind turned cruel.
Out of the ride came Ten Little Rules for a Double-Butted Adventure. “Never quit on a bad day” stopped a mid-ride collapse after three flats; “Do hard things” later became a mantra as Bruce faced glioblastoma. Terry read from the book at his bedside; he passed as she spoke those words, a final gift that still gets her up when grief says stay down. The finish line in Washington, D.C. unlocked a deeper shift: the question changed from “Can I?” to “What do I want?” She chose authorship, publishing novels that explore identity, war, resilience, and healing.
If you’re navigating burnout, rebuilding after loss, or wrestling with self-doubt, this conversation offers practical resilience, relationship tools, and a fresh definition of adventure: bigger than your plans, kinder than your fear, and honest about the work. Listen, share it with someone who needs a push, and tell us: which rule will you carry into your next hill?
To learn more about Teri and her books visit www.terimbrown.com and check her out on Instagram @terimbrown_author.
Subscribe to the Human Adventure for more human stories of grit and growth, leave a review to help others find the show, and connect with us to keep the conversation going. You can find me on Instagram @humanadventurepod or check out the video episodes on YouTube @humanadventurepod.
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
201 - Some stories hit like a wave and then teach you how to breathe underwater. Our conversation with Zander Sprague does exactly that, moving from the shock of losing his sister to murder to the hard-won wisdom that comes from advocacy, travel, and choosing the next brave step.
Zander opens a window into the often-ignored world of sibling grief. He explains why brothers and sisters become invisible mourners, how that silence delays healing, and what simple acknowledgment can do for a family. We trace his path from writing Making Lemonade to serving on the board of The Compassionate Friends, and we unpack practical ways to support “sibling survivors” with empathy, language, and presence.
Adventure threads through everything. Zander defines it as seeking new places and doing what scares you, then proves it with stories: a misread note in Tasmania that turned into a farm lunch and a nine-hole pasture course, and a first safari sighting of lion cubs who later became the famed Mapogo coalition. Those moments illustrate how travel builds courage, how kindness creates opportunity, and how serendipity rewards people who show up. We also dig into his “epic” framework: structure lowers stress, courage embraces detours, and progress starts with one step forward. From dealing with flight delays to releasing a book after years of doubt, Zander shows how to turn friction into momentum.
If you’re navigating loss, craving purpose, or waiting for a sign to begin, consider this your nudge. Hear the tools, borrow the mindset, and start your own pilgrimage today. Subscribe, leave a review to support the show, and share this episode with someone who needs a reminder that the next step counts more than perfect certainty.
To learn more about Zander and his work visit zandersprague.com and give him a follow on Instagram @epic_begins.
Want to be a guest on the show? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
200 - A new name, a sharper mission, and a story that hits like a drumbeat. Journey with Jake evolves into The Human Adventure, and we mark the moment with Joleen Hyde, a South African guide whose life moved from the weight of apartheid to the work of building bridges through travel, education, and Ubuntu. This is not a safari highlight reel. It’s a tour of how courage, forgiveness, and community can transform how we move through the world.
We start with the why behind our new title: a focus on people, resilience, and purpose. Joleen brings that focus to life. She explains what it meant to be legally classified under apartheid, how her father’s quiet generosity shaped her, and what she learned while working with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Mandela’s model of forgiveness looms large here, not as a slogan but as a discipline that keeps hope practical. From there, Joleen traces a path to the United States and the creation of Into Africa Tours, an impact-driven approach to travel that pairs wildlife and coastline with classrooms, townships, and feeding programs.
You’ll hear how guests step beyond surface-level tourism to meet teachers and students, support community projects, and experience the spirit of Ubuntu: I am because we are. We talk about the hard parts too—limits, heartbreak, and the humility to choose one project and follow through. There’s laughter in the mix, from language lessons to bold bites of local food, and plenty of adventure that still honors safety and respect. Listeners walk away with a richer view of South Africa, tangible ways to get involved, and a challenge to keep serving back home, long after the passport is stamped.
Ready to rethink why you travel and what your presence can do? Press play, share this with someone who needs a dose of human connection, and subscribe to stay with us on The Human Adventure. Your review helps more people find stories that turn empathy into action.
To learn more about Joleen and Into Africa Tours visit her website www.intoafricatours.com and give her a follow on Instagram @intoafrica_tours.
Want to be a guest on The Human Adventure? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
The compass has shifted—and it points inward. What started as a travel-and-adventure show evolved into a deeper exploration of growth, courage, and connection. I've renamed the show The Human Adventure to reflect what the journey has truly become: not just where we go, but who we become along the way.
We look back at conversations that changed our trajectory. A Disney storyteller reframed joy and nostalgia as serious connective tissue. An Ultraman athlete taught us that discipline is a conversation with doubt. A guest turned running coach turned friend showed that progress moves at the speed of honesty, not hype. Again and again, our guests reminded us that the most meaningful maps are drawn between people, not points on a globe.
That’s the heartbeat going forward. Expect stories from musicians finding their voice, creators building from nothing, travelers who understand places through people, and everyday moments that test limits and redefine fear. We’ll probe the decisions behind the destinations, the inner terrain beneath the milestones, and the small, repeatable practices that turn inspiration into traction. Think resilience, mindset, vulnerability, mentorship, and the art of taking one more step when it counts.
If you’ve felt stuck, curious, or quietly called toward something more, this is your sign to lean in. Come for the stories; stay for the tools that help you act on them. Subscribe, share the show with someone who needs a nudge, and leave a review so more people can find The Human Adventure. Let’s take the next step together.
199 - What if the most important part of travel is the part you can’t see? I sat down with cultural intelligence educator Renae Ninneman to unpack the “iceberg” of culture—how the visible stuff like food, transit, and phrases sits on top of deeper values about identity, respect, and communication that truly shape connection. Renee takes us from a formative year teaching in South Korea to years of refugee advocacy, sharing how naming culture shock and learning CQ transformed exhaustion into empathy.
Together we break down cultural intelligence as a practical skill you can build: understand your own defaults, recognize different norms without judging, create a plan before you enter a new space, and adapt your behavior so others feel at ease. Renae offers vivid examples—from ordering pizza in Seoul to navigating indirect communication in Japan—showing how small shifts in greeting, tone, and timing open doors. We also talk about heavy but vital travel: visiting Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial and the power of paper cranes as a living wish for peace.
You’ll come away with simple, actionable ways to grow your CQ without leaving home: volunteer with local ESL programs, shop at international markets, watch K‑dramas or Bollywood films, and explore global music that connects American blues back to Mali. If you’re planning a trip or leading teams across borders, Renae’s Beyond Tourism training and assessment can help you prepare thoughtfully so every interaction builds trust rather than friction. Subscribe, share this conversation with a curious friend, and tell us: what’s one habit you’ll adapt to connect better on your next adventure?
To learn more about Renae and to receive $80 off her Individual Intercultural Training ceck out www.goingbeyondtouris.com and mention you heard her on the show. You can also follow her on Instagram @goingbeyondtourism.
Want to be a guest on the show? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
198 - A story of wild trails, darker nights, and a love that wouldn’t let go. I sat down with author and long-distance hiker Wing Williams to unpack his “howling twenties,” the constant motion that took him across 49 states, and the quiet rituals that hid a growing addiction. From Mount Washington to the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail, Wing explains how the woods taught him endurance and community while alcohol promised relief from an unseen torment he now names as spiritual warfare.
What follows is a candid look at rock bottom: seizures, medical detox, and the moment pride finally broke into surrender. Wing shares why asking for help is the bravest first step, how family showed up when it counted, and why spiritual and medical support must work together when alcohol has become a lifeline and a trap. We also explore the stark difference between hiking with a bottle and living strong in sobriety, the loneliness of being misunderstood, and the humble daily practices that keep recovery honest.
Cinereal, Wing’s new memoir, threads these pieces into a story about addiction, faith, and redemption that is both gritty and life-giving. You’ll hear practical insights on recognizing early warning signs of dependency, how long trails like the AT and PCT become blueprints for resilience, and what it means to rebuild identity on purpose instead of performance. If you’ve ever felt lost in the silence after the summit, this conversation offers a handhold: hope is real, healing is possible, and you don’t have to walk alone.
If this episode moved you, tap follow, leave a quick review to help others find the show, and share it with a friend who needs to hear that redemption is still on the table.
To learn more about Wing and his book check out wingwilliams.com and give him a follow on Instagram @cinerealememoir.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
197 - Forbidden stories aren’t just about shock—they’re about truth we’re often afraid to name. I sat down with author Bria Rose to explore how dark romance gives readers a safe place to wrestle with power, consent, and grief, and how a reimagined Beauty and the Beast can turn survival into self‑love. Bria shares how childhood bullying and a lifelong bond with Belle’s courage shaped her voice, then opens the doors to Her Dark Promise, where Belle is the Beast, the castle is in France, and the magic is human: trauma, desire, and the choice to heal on your own terms.
We move from Disneyland memories to real‑world cast life—4 a.m. shifts, sunrise yoga at the castle, and the electric joy of cast previews that remind grownups why Walt designed the park for them, too. Then Bria breaks down dark romance with clarity: morally gray leads, explicit trigger notes, and tropey pressure cookers that challenge comfort zones without glamorizing harm. She explains how to retell a classic without infringing copyright—keeping essence, ditching replicas—and why nods like “the gray stuff” land best when anchored by character depth.
The publishing journey is a masterclass: a three‑month draft, two years of rewrites, a decisive pivot to self‑publishing, and a learning curve through KDP, keywords, ISBNs, and design. Sixty cold emails led to one yes and a special edition—proof that you only need one door to open. Along the way, Bria centers representation and found family: all types of characters, sign language, and a castle that becomes a refuge for anyone told they don’t belong. We wrap with new projects—an audiobook, a HarperCollins imprint deal, a spicy Pinocchio retelling—and practical advice for aspiring writers: write the words, then make them better.
If this conversation sparked something in you, tap follow, share it with a friend who loves retellings, and leave a quick review. Your support helps more curious listeners find the show and keeps these stories moving.
To learn more about Bria and her books check out www.authorbriarose.com and give her a follow on Instagram @authorbriarose.
Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and learn more about my personality and what I love.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
196 - What does it really take to walk away from a peak career, point your bow into headwinds, and chase a goal so big it scares you? I sat down with Malaysian sailor Fabian Fernandez, who circumnavigated the globe on his own terms—eschewing the easy “milk run” to round the Cape of Good Hope and steer straight into the kind of weather that makes legends and humbles egos.
Fabian’s story isn’t a montage of perfect beaches. It’s a masterclass in planning, patience, and purpose. He breaks down how years of engineering and manufacturing shaped his voyage like a mega-project: route windows, finances, maintenance, and timing all choreographed to create momentum without gambling safety. He shares why he stopped often, how he used seasons to his advantage, and why the planning was harder than the sailing. You’ll hear a frank take on destinations—why French Polynesia felt overrated, why the Cook Islands and South Africa stole his heart, and why he scouted the Beagle Channel only to choose the Panama Canal after weighing joy against endurance in subpolar cold.
At the core is a spiritual journey. Thirty-two days alone across the Pacific stripped away the “white noise” of modern life and surfaced a simple truth: meaning grows when you give back. Fabian talks about faith, the courage to quit a prescribed path, and the cruising community’s radical kindness that ignores borders, race, and creed. He also honors the ocean’s cost, recounting the loss of a careful solo sailor friend—a reminder that respect and preparation are nonnegotiable.
We wrap with what comes next: talks on mental resilience, a short documentary, and a book that reframes adventure as an inner stretch, not a postcard. If you need a push to set your own big, hairy, audacious goal—and the practical playbook to make it real—this conversation will nudge you from someday to start. Subscribe, leave a review, and share this with someone who’s ready to trade comfort for courage.
To learn more about Fabian check out his website www.destinydawnsailing.com and give him a follow on Instagram @destinytwelve.
Be sure and check out my Instagram for clips from the show and some snippets into my personal journey @journeywithjakepodcast.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
195 - A bull charges, a crowd roars, and a young teacher in Mexico says yes to the ring. That same man later sleeps on a bare floor in Juarez with his dog, ships bags at night, and turns a sketch into a company people chase through airports. Meet Dave Munson, founder of Saddleback Leather, whose path blends risk, faith, and relentless craft into a life that refuses shortcuts.
We dig into the moment he drew the first “Indiana Jones” bag, why strangers wouldn’t stop asking for it, and how a $100 apartment, bus-station pickups, and stubborn standards turned into a brand with a 100-year warranty. Dave shares blunt truths on pricing and materials, the discipline behind quality control, and the sacrifices most never see—waiting to marry, choosing grit over comfort, and protecting a business from the quiet temptations of cutting corners. His leadership lessons are disarmingly personal: court your spouse, encourage everyone, and help others win. Success, he argues, starts at home.
Faith threads through everything. Dave talks about praying boldly for “the coolest,” from a 1971 Land Cruiser rack to a headquarters built from compressed leather bales. He explains how purpose shapes operations—building a factory in Mexico, launching a homeschool program for employees’ kids, reopening an English institute, and sponsoring students in Rwanda and Uganda. Travel becomes marketing with a soul: crocs tug-of-war on a bag, shark dives on a honeymoon, and a simple stopover hack that turns Africa routes into Morocco detours at no extra cost.
We close by redefining adventure. Dave bans the word in branding and lives it instead: choose the unknown, trust that you’ll figure it out, and let curiosity steer the map. If you care about craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, service, and stories that actually happened, this conversation delivers. Subscribe, share with a friend who loves quality over hype, and leave a review with your favorite takeaway—what bold step are you ready to take next?
To learn more about Dave and maybe get yourself or a loved one a gift check out www.saddlbackleather.com and you can follow him on Instagram as well @saddlebackbags.
Be sure and follow me on Instagram as well to see some clips from the show and to get to know the personal side of yours truly! Check out @journeywithjakepodcast.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
194 - What if adventure isn’t something you chase, but something you create? That question sparks a sweeping journey with author and explorer Rick Glaze—from small-town Tennessee roots to whitewater rapids, open-ocean sails, limestone caves, and a treasure map that refuses to sit still. We dig into the stories behind The Purple River, Spanish Pieces of Eight, and Eight Pieces of Eight, and how real rapids, big water, and Caribbean passages shaped the fiction that readers can’t put down.
Rick opens up about the turning points that changed his course: a fear at the top of a long Rogue River rapid, the serendipity of spotting a piece of eight on a tiny island, and the joy of learning to sail after years of kayaking. He explains how songwriting and novel writing use time differently—compressing a life into three verses versus slowing a moment into a chapter—and why both require the same core ingredient: a spark you carry into the work. You’ll hear how family dynamics fuel a high-stakes treasure hunt across islands, why a “magic map” demands courage from a young protagonist in Tennessee’s vast cave system, and how a dog-and-cat-narrated, laugh-out-loud tale of 1959 grew from a pandemic pivot.
We also get practical about the creative life today. Rick talks candidly about discoverability in a noisy world, the shifting sands of social media, and the discipline it takes to keep shipping stories and songs. His advice lands with a friendly thud: begin ugly. Write the first novel so the second can exist. Play the first nine shaky shows so the tenth can sing. Whether you’re a paddler, a sailor, a reader of adventure fiction, or a creator looking for a push, this conversation blends craft, courage, and curiosity into a guide you can actually use.
If you enjoyed the episode, tap follow, share it with a friend who loves adventure stories, and leave a quick rating or review so more listeners can find the show. Ready to turn your spark into a story?
To learn more about Rick and his stories check out his website www.rickglaze.com and be sure to give him a follow on Instagram @rick.glaze.
To see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Xploreum connects you with authentic wilderness expeditions led by trusted local experts. Browse real adventures, book directly with experienced guides, and get $200 off your first trip using code HumanAdventure2026 at xploreum.io/humanadventure.
193 - Some stories ask for courage. This one demands it. Marine veteran Rand Timmerman returns to share a raw, graphic, and deeply human account of Vietnam—what he saw, what he did to survive, and what it took to live with those memories when the shooting stopped. We open with a trigger warning for good reason: a suicide on his first night in-country, chaotic airlifts into hot zones, and an accidental death that still haunts him. Rand walks us through helicopter gunner missions where landing meant risking a minefield, and a midair struggle over a pilot’s unsecured revolver that ended with a prisoner out one door and Rand hanging from a skid at altitude.
The ground war was no less brutal. In a reaction platoon ambush, his unit ran out of ammo; he fixed bayonet, fought, and fled to a river where he hid for days while grenades exploded nearby. Rescue pulled him into another horror—collecting bodies after a C-130 crash that obliterated a village—then onto a hospital ship where he realized he was “okay” only by comparison to a Marine who’d lost his jaw. That moment shifted his mindset from terror to cold acceptance: do the job, and let go of what you can’t control.
Coming home brought a different kind of wound. Rand was shoved and called “baby killer” at LAX, learned to hide his uniform, and followed his father’s order to bury the war deep. He built a life—law school, family, work—until the nightmares flooded back, dragging him into years of alcohol-fueled numbness. The turning point arrived at the VA and through a 12-step path that replaced isolation with service. Today, Rand mentors veterans and chronic relapsers, writes to heal, and speaks with a clarity that cuts through myth: PTSD recovery is possible, purpose is medicine, and telling the truth can save lives.
If stories of resilience, veteran mental health, and trauma recovery matter to you, press play. Then share this with someone who needs hope, subscribe for more powerful journeys, and leave a review to help others find the show.
To learn more about Rand and get a copy of his book, "A Spiritual Passage" check out his website www.randtimmerman.com.
Be sure to give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast to learn more about my guests and me personally.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
192 - Some moments feel like they’re nudging us forward. Stephen Seidel’s life is full of those nudges: a favorite Eagles player on the flight to a funeral, a foggy window shaped like an eagle on the day of a tribute, a childhood hero literally saving him from choking. We unpack how he alchemized those signs, along with profound loss, into a mission centered on connection, courage, and story.
Stephen grew up a sports-obsessed kid in Philly, short but scrappy, learning early how shared rituals create belonging. After losing his stepdad and later his father, and while caring for his mother during the pandemic from a laundry-room office, he faced relentless pressure as a dad, husband, and founder. His response was to build Gents Journey, a men’s community where entrepreneurs and creatives meet weekly, ask bracing questions, and practice vulnerability. From that work came the Journey Deck, a toolkit that helps men open up with their partners, kids, and peers.
We dig into Steven’s G.R.E.A.T. framework—Grateful, Reflective, Empathetic, Accountable, Transformational—and how simple perspective shifts turn setbacks into momentum. He explains why “connection is your currency,” how the hero’s journey gives structure to personal change, and why storytelling is the fastest way to build trust in life, leadership, and brand. We also talk adventure as play and presence, including his “Survivor in a Day” experience that surfaced fear, grit, and unexpected joy.
You’ll leave with practical ways to reconnect to your purpose, rebuild with the right people, and reclaim your voice. If you’ve felt stuck, isolated, or unsure how to start, this conversation offers tools, language, and hope. Listen, share your biggest takeaway, and if it resonates, subscribe and leave a review so more people can find the show.
To learn more about Stephen and his mission check out his website www.stephenseidel.com and also gentsjourney.co.
To see clips from past, present, and future shows give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
191 - What if your brain could learn to love better? We sat down with Dr. David Helfand—a therapist with a background in neuroscience—to unpack how neuroplasticity, meditation, and focused couples work can turn recurring fights into lasting repair. From breathwork that calms a spiraling argument to thought logs that retrain pessimism, David shows how small, repeatable practices change both your nervous system and your connection.
We dig into why so many “individual” problems live inside relationship dynamics: insomnia worsened by conflict, anxiety sparked by a partner’s withdrawal, intimacy dulled by routine. David explains his private couples retreats—three hours of intensive work per day over two to four days—built around four pillars: communication, regulation, prioritization, and intimacy. You’ll hear the picnic story that derailed a weekend and what actually sat beneath it, plus a powerful moment of trauma healing that helped a spouse finally understand where the anger was coming from.
If novelty bonded you at the start, lack of adventure can quietly pull you apart. We talk practical ways to bring it back: surprise reservations, trade-off date planning, tech-free walks, and playful intimacy that treats the bedroom as exploration, not performance. David also offers clear boundaries on who should attend a retreat and why consent and safety matter. Most of all, you’ll leave with a hopeful message: incompatibility is often just a lack of skill, and skills can be learned.
If this conversation resonates, share it with someone who could use a nudge toward connection, follow the show, and leave a quick review on Apple or Spotify. Your support is greatly appreciated.
To learn more about couples retreats and Dr. David Helfand please visit www.marriagequest.org.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
190 - What if you could trade flat maps and footnotes for sunrise on Sinai and sea spray in your face as you approach a harbor Paul once saw? That’s the world filmmaker Craig Dehut invites us into—where sacred places become cinematic classrooms and faith is strengthened by seeing.
Craig shares how Appian Media grew from a coffee-shop idea to a nonprofit producing free, high-quality Bible documentaries viewed more than 20 million times in over 160 countries. We dig into the nuts and bolts: small teams hauling Sony rigs, drones, and audio kits through Israel, Egypt, Turkey, and Greece; the scramble for permits that can change by sunset; and the art of capturing clean, honest moments among crowds at sites like the Church of the Nativity. Craig explains why their films lean into archaeology, geography, and culture—so viewers can picture Capernaum’s streets, feel the Valley of Elah’s creek bed, and re-read Scripture with sharper eyes.
Beyond craft, we talk impact. Homeschool families use the series as living curriculum. Skeptics come for history and stay for the evidence. Teachers cue clips, kids ask to binge-read First Samuel, and lifelong believers say they finally “saw” Jerusalem. Craig opens up about the editing grind, the joy and exhaustion of 16-hour field days, and a bold ten-year plan to build a Genesis-to-Revelation visual journey. The goal is simple and ambitious: help people read better by helping them see better—turning the lands of the Bible into accessible, vivid learning for everyone.
Watch the documentaries on YouTube, explore resources at AppianMedia.org, and if the mission resonates, consider supporting monthly to fuel future trips and post-production. If this conversation moves you, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—what place from Scripture do you most want to see brought to life?
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
189 - A cone head at baggage claim. A prank that makes a whole terminal laugh. And beneath the costumes and skits, a marriage held together by faith, service, and a fierce tenderness forged in grief. We sit down with Troy and Melinda Hicks—Hicks in the Wild—to explore how everyday adventure can coexist with loss and how playful creativity becomes a lifeline.
Their love story starts in college, survives a mission and distance, and grows into a partnership where roles fit like puzzle pieces: Melinda crafts the ideas and heart-forward projects; Troy builds the systems, supply chains, and giving model. That model was born from pain. They share the sudden preterm birth of their son Tanner at 24 weeks, three days in the NICU, and the sacred details that became anchors—a donated blanket and cap, a father who knew how to navigate the unthinkable. Melinda now sews tiny blankets and diaper covers for NICU babies, transforming sorrow into service families can feel in their hands.
The Hicks also walk through a second crucible: their five-month-old’s neck tumor and the week of terror before a successful surgery. That experience reframed hospitals as places of skill and hope, inspiring them to donate a percentage of their revenue to Phoenix Children’s Hospital. We dig into their mission-driven venture, Searching for Jesus, a Christ-centered Advent tradition that turned their December into daily wonder and helped their kids fall in love with prayer. Along the way, we talk viral moments, Lord Farquaad gags, a months-long “bird landing” quest, and the simple rule that guides their content—if it isn’t fun, they don’t do it.
What emerges is a blueprint for meaningful, joyful living: schedule delight, let faith hold your anger long enough to heal, make small things that help real people, and keep choosing each other through the messy middle of family life. Adventure, they remind us, isn’t a mountain or an ocean crossing—it’s a decision to move forward without knowing every turn, and to laugh together when you can. If this story lifted you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs a smile, and leave a review to help others find our community. Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
To learn more about Troy and Melinda give them a follow on Instagram @hicksinsthewild and to learn more about having a Christ centered Christmas with your kids or grandkids check out www.searchingforjesus.shop.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
188 - What happens when a comedian with a camera trades stage lights for sunrise on a dirt road and points his vehicle toward Panama? I sat down with author and traveler Matt Savino to unpack a seven-month run along the Pan American Highway that never reached South America yet somehow delivered everything he was chasing: humor in the chaos, humanity at the barricades, and a clear-eyed love for places most maps flatten.
Matt takes us from Baja’s empty beaches and Dr. Seuss–worthy boojum forests to the food capitals of Puebla and Oaxaca, where mole lessons and tlayudas become their own itinerary. He opens the door on a Nicaraguan uprising, describing the day he edged through student roadblocks by listening first and moving only when trust appeared. Then the road shifts again: Costa Rica’s bold choice to scrap its army and invest in parks and schools, and a volunteer’s-eye view inside the Panama Canal’s towering locks, where global trade rises and falls like a stage cue.
We also dig into Land Without a Continent, Matt’s sharp, funny travel memoir that blends road stories with deep dives into Mesoamerican history and modern politics. With a researcher’s rigor and a comic’s timing, he shows how travel rewires assumptions: Central America’s identity, the real cost of a “normal life,” and why empathy is the best gear you can pack. If you’ve ever wondered whether to overland, backpack, or simply follow your curiosity, this story maps the trade-offs and the rewards.
Subscribe, share with a friend who loves smart travel stories, and leave a review to help more explorers find the show. Then tell us: what part of this route would you tackle first, and why?
To learn more about give him a follow on Instagram @ushuaia_or_bust and to get a copy of his book "Land Without a Continent" visit www.mattsavino.com.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
187 - A childhood marked by chaos. A career built on service. And a second act shaped by faith, language, and a blank page. Jake sits down with Ken Webb to trace a life that refuses to settle for mere existence—from praying his way through a turbulent home to leading across Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan, and beyond.
Ken opens up about how his grandparents’ steady love and a lived-in faith helped him endure abuse and instability, and how those early lessons informed three decades in the Army Reserve. We walk through his pivot from military police to intelligence, the realities of early Iraq deployments, the nuance of embassy duty in Baghdad, and the complexity of retiring when your identity is wrapped in a uniform. Ken shares why he turned down comfortable contracts, chose Miraflores in Lima, and made Spanish class and the gym his new daily discipline.
We also dig into his debut novel, Trapped in Deception, a work of fiction threaded with real messages and real emotions. The story explores gaslighting, misplaced trust, and moral courage through a protagonist who—like Ken—keeps moving forward even when life tilts sideways. Along the way, Ken reframes adventure: not cliffs and bravado, but consistent growth, honest discomfort, and choices that expand your life. If you’re wrestling with what comes after a big chapter ends, or wondering how to trade drift for direction, this conversation offers practical hope and hard-won insight.
Listen, share with a friend who needs courage today, and if the story speaks to you, leave a quick rating or review. It helps more curious, purpose-driven listeners find the show.
To learn more about Ken and his first novel check out kenwebb69.com.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
186 - What if the deepest calm you’ve ever felt could follow you out of the water and into everyday life? That’s the spark of our conversation with Kerry Ferguson, founder of Yoga Tree, whose path from free diving to yoga reveals how breath, mindfulness, and compassion can reshape how we move through the world.
We trace Kerry's arc from early wellness choices and Outward Bound grit to anatomy labs, massage rooms, and a turning point in the Bahamas where breath control under pressure became a doorway to peace. Back in Tennessee, she helped a community discover yoga as sanctuary, even holding space on a day of national grief. Kerry shares a clear, practical technique—sit tall, breathe through the nose, expand the belly on inhale, and extend exhale to twice the length—to quiet anxiety and teach the nervous system to trust you again. Her approach demystifies meditation, inviting you to watch thoughts like clouds until the sky clears.
Travel is a thread that binds it all together. Kerry leads mindful retreats in Greece and beyond, where mornings begin on the mat and days unfold with local food, culture, and unhurried conversations. These aren’t just vacations; they’re immersive practices in presence, from family-run kitchens to sunset meditations. We also dig into yoga’s evolution in the West—why the pendulum swung toward fitness and why many are now returning to philosophy, chanting, and stillness. Kerry’s stories, including a powerful moment from a silent retreat in Dharamshala, remind us that our quiet can steady someone else’s storm.
If you’re seeking anxiety relief, mind-body tools, or a more intentional way to travel, this conversation will meet you where you are and nudge you toward where you want to be. Listen, breathe with us, and if it resonates, share the episode, subscribe, and leave a review so more people can find their way back to calm.
To learn more about Kerry and Yoga Tree check out her website www.myyogatree.com and give her a follow on Instagram @myyogatree.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
185 - Before longboards hit storefronts and GoPros hit helmets, Jack Smith and two friends pointed a 1969 Firebird toward the horizon and skated into history. Jack Smith talks about how a simple leapfrog relay turned a wild idea into the first recorded skateboard crossing of the United States—and how that journey shaped everything that came after.
We trace the arc from clay “crumble” wheels to first‑gen urethane and on to the big trucks and 70mm wheels that made 1980s distance skating faster and safer. Jack breaks down the daily cadence—early pushes, midday pool stops, evening miles—and the small-town moments that still stick: a Minnesota marquee that read “Welcome skateboarders,” a West Virginia diner that wasn’t sure what to make of three long‑haired kids, and strangers in Ohio who handed over house keys and dinner plates without hesitation. He tells the story that stays with him most: a rain delay at Yellowstone, a missed geyser, and a roadside rescue that, decades later, circled back through a single email to confirm a life saved.
We also explore how purpose and technology reshaped the ride. Jack’s 2003 crossing raised awareness for Lowe syndrome after the loss of his son; his 2018 electric skateboard traverse with his wife leading a camper van turned battery swaps into a moving pit crew. Along the way, he argues for the slower road—South Dakota’s rolling Highway 212, atlas pages over pure GPS—and why the “real America” lives beyond freeway exits. Jack shares updates on his feature screenplay and novel, plans for a 50‑year retrace in an electric VW, and a shout‑out to the new generation of cross‑country pushers proving that momentum beats perfection.
Hit play to learn how to design a relay that works, dial your long‑distance skate setup, and rethink what’s possible when you stop waiting for perfect conditions. If this conversation moves you, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a review to help more curious listeners find the road. Which back road would you choose next?
To learn more about Jack give him a follow on Instagram @jack_smith_morro_bay.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
184 - What does it take to conquer the American Ninja Warrior course? For Colton Skuster, the journey began as a 10-year-old jumping over exercise balls in his basement, dreaming of someday tackling those iconic obstacles himself.
At just 20 years old, Colton has already competed in three seasons of American Ninja Warrior, reaching the National Finals in Las Vegas and proving himself against competitors twice his age. His path wasn't straightforward – from training in a monkey costume to building his own backyard obstacle course during COVID lockdowns, Colton's determination never wavered.
During our conversation, Colton pulls back the curtain on what really happens behind the scenes at ANW. We discuss the intense application process where personality matters as much as athletic ability, the nerve-wracking experience of stepping onto the starting platform surrounded by cameras and crowds, and the surreal moment when producers reveal obstacle courses competitors have never seen before. You'll discover how competitors train for challenges they can't predict and the split-second decisions that determine success or failure on national television.
Beyond the competition itself, Colton shares profound insights about finding purpose after achieving a lifelong goal. "You reach one goal, you're satisfied, it's amazing, you celebrate," he explains, "and then you think – how can I take this further?" This wisdom has led him to mentor younger athletes, speak at high schools, and even caddy at Pebble Beach alongside celebrities like Michael Phelps.
Whether you're a fan of American Ninja Warrior or simply someone searching for motivation to pursue your own challenges, Colton's story demonstrates how passion, friendship, and resilience can transform dreams into reality at any age. Listen now, and discover how the journey matters more than the destination.
Be sure and give Colton a follow on Instagram @cwskuster.
Subscribe, leave a review, and follow @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram to join our community of adventure seekers finding inspiration in extraordinary stories.
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Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
183 - Jamie Edwards returns to Journey with Jake with tales from the top of the world, having ventured to the Arctic with her 21-year-old daughter and 82-year-old stepfather. Their expedition through the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard reveals a landscape where polar bears roam distant shores and massive glaciers calve with thunderous crashes that signal our changing climate.
Jamie vividly describes the unique challenges and thrills of Arctic exploration aboard the purpose-built Ultramarine ship. Unlike Antarctica (which Jamie visited previously), the Arctic's main attraction—and danger—is the magnificent polar bear. These apex predators can smell prey from up to 20 miles away and swim for days without stopping, facts that add a layer of respectful caution to every shore excursion. The expedition team constantly scans shorelines through powerful scopes before allowing passengers to disembark, ensuring both human safety and wildlife protection.
What makes this journey particularly special is the three-generation dynamic. For Jamie's environmentally-conscious daughter, seeing climate change impacts firsthand provided powerful context to her studies. For her adventurous 82-year-old stepfather, it was an opportunity he'd never have experienced otherwise. And for Jamie—someone who typically dislikes cold weather but couldn't resist the Arctic's allure—the expedition became another transformative travel experience, even culminating in the traditional "polar plunge" into frigid waters.
Beyond her Arctic adventures, Jamie shares updates on her expanding writing career, including contributions to National Geographic's upcoming "Traveler's Atlas" and her travel coaching services. Her website IamLostandFound.com continues to serve as both personal travel journal and professional portfolio, connecting her with opportunities to share her passion for thoughtful, transformative travel experiences.
Whether you're planning your own polar expedition or simply enjoy armchair adventures, this conversation offers both practical insights and philosophical reflections on how travel changes us—"you go into it one way, you come out of it another."
Be sure and check out Jamie's work on her website www.iamlostandfound.com.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
182 - Two simple questions changed everything for Bernard "Chalky" White. Growing up under the shadow of an abusive father who regularly beat both him and his mother, Chalky developed a survival mechanism that unfortunately led him to abandon his education completely by age 13. With zero qualifications at 16, he joined the police cadets and eventually became a London "Bobby," though his heart was never truly in law enforcement.
During his nine-year police career, Chalky witnessed unspeakable horrors, including a gruesome murder of a child and two near-death experiences where fellow officers failed to intervene. But fate intervened in late 1973 when a friend casually invited him skiing. Watching instructors and seasonal workers enjoying mountain life in Andora sparked something profound within him.
That's when Chalky stumbled upon two transformative questions that would guide his decisions forevermore: "What if I don't?" followed by "What if I do?" The emotional shift between considering negative consequences and positive possibilities gave him the courage to resign from the police force and pursue a completely different life.
The path wasn't straightforward. Chalky faced brutal rejection, including being told he would "never be a ski instructor" and later that his "wrong body shape" (bowed legs) made certification impossible. To fund his dreams, he sold encyclopedias door-to-door in Germany, managed a discotheque in Morocco, and took whatever jobs kept his skiing ambitions alive.
His persistence paid off. After failing multiple British certification attempts, he traveled to New Zealand where an instructor showed him how to adapt his technique to his physique. He passed on his first try and has spent decades teaching skiing, authoring the successful "Seven Secrets of Skiing" and recently publishing his memoir "Keep Chewing the Granite: How Two Questions Can Change Your Life."
Chalky's story demonstrates how asking yourself the right questions can completely transform your perspective and ultimately your life. What decisions might change for you if you asked yourself "What if I don't?" followed by "What if I do?" Try this simple but powerful technique today and see where it leads you.
To get a copy of Chalky's book check out Amazon!
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181 - Christian Ray Flores' life reads like an epic novel - a childhood marked by upheaval across continents, an improbable rise to pop stardom in Russia, and a profound transformation into a purposeful coach helping others discover their untapped potential.
Growing up amid political chaos, Christian experienced firsthand what most of us only read about in history books. By age seven, he had lived through a military coup in Chile that landed his father in a concentration camp, experienced refugee life under UN protection, and witnessed civil war in Mozambique. The constant relocations forced him to absorb four languages by age nine, unwittingly preparing him for a life bridging different worlds and perspectives.
When the Soviet Union collapsed around him just as he completed his economics degree, Christian made the unconventional choice to pursue music instead of academia. His gamble paid off spectacularly. Within years, he was performing in sports arenas across 15 countries, selling millions of albums, and even creating the campaign anthem for Boris Yeltsin's pivotal election against communist forces. Yet at the pinnacle of success, he found himself clinically depressed - a paradox that would later inform his coaching philosophy.
The turning point came through spiritual transformation and marriage to an American woman who saw past his celebrity to the person beneath. After transitioning to life in America, Christian discovered his calling as a coach for high-achievers who, like his former self, might appear successful on paper while feeling incomplete or imbalanced within.
His unique approach helps clients recognize when they're "fighting with one hand tied behind their back" - achieving impressive results while leaving their most powerful gifts dormant. Through his Exponential Life coaching program, he helps entrepreneurs, executives, and creatives untie that second hand and experience breakthrough performance aligned with their deepest purpose.
What makes Christian's perspective so valuable is that he's lived at both extremes - from refugee facilities to celebrity mansions, from communist oppression to American opportunity. This journey fueled his book "Little Book of Big Reasons to Love America," which offers a refreshing immigrant perspective on American possibility in an age of cynicism.
Want to discover what might be dormant in your own life? Connect with Christian's coaching programs and begin your own journey toward exponential growth and authentic purpose.
To learn more about Christian's coaching programs and his book check out his website xponential.life. You can also follow him on Instagram @christianrayflores.
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180 - Have you ever wondered what happens when a deep love for Ireland, masterful storytelling, and biblical foundations merge? That's exactly what unfolds in this captivating conversation with John Leonard, the creative mind behind the Wayfinder series – a fantasy adventure saga that bridges ancient myths with biblical narratives.
Growing up in rural Colorado as the eldest of four siblings, John shares how his close relationship with his brother shaped his early years through sports and friendly competition. His journey took a fascinating turn in college when he discovered rugby, serving as team captain for four years at Colorado Mesa University. This passion later connected him deeply to Irish culture when he seized an opportunity to study abroad in Belfast.
John's eight-mile walk from Dublin to the Neolithic site of Newgrange became a transformative experience, allowing him to absorb Ireland's countryside in a way impossible from behind a car window. "Walking that road was just something else," he recalls, describing how the sideways rain, winding paths, and ancient hamlets with thatched roofs transported him through time. His vivid descriptions of Irish pub culture – where storytellers gather, musicians spontaneously form bands, and strangers share life stories over shared drinks – reveal how deeply Ireland's storytelling tradition influenced his own writing.
The heart of our conversation explores John's Wayfinder series, particularly his first book "Dawn of Destiny." This unique fantasy saga fills the narrative gap between the Tower of Babel and Abraham's story in Genesis, weaving together Mesopotamian, Akkadian, Egyptian, and other Bronze Age cultural myths into a cohesive narrative that respects biblical accounts. Using the rabbinical teaching method of Pardes, John creates stories with multiple levels of meaning – from surface-level adventure to deeper theological symbolism.
Whether you're fascinated by ancient mythology, interested in creative approaches to biblical narratives, or simply love a good conversation about the writing journey, John's story will inspire you to see adventure as more than just reaching a destination. As he beautifully puts it: "The adventure is the journey in between...the relationships, the foundational aspects that form who you are along that journey." Subscribe now and join us for more inspiring conversations about overcoming life's challenges through adventure!
To learn more about John give him a follow on Instagram @thewayfinderseries and get a copy of his book on Amazon.
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179 - Lesa Burgess never imagined that falling in love with a basketball player would lead her across nine countries over eleven years, building a family of seven while navigating cultural labyrinths few Americans ever experience. Her memoir "Behind the Bench" pulls back the curtain on what looks like a glamorous life to reveal something far more compelling—a story of resilience, adaptation, and finding yourself when everything familiar has been left behind.
From giving birth in Turkey with no pain medication (total hospital bill: $275) to teaching her 6'11" husband how to drive a stick shift in Ukraine while pregnant, Lisa's adventures defy conventional understanding. "People are kind of like, 'Oh, this sounds so glamorous and amazing,'" she explains, "and you're just like, 'You have no idea what this is.'" Her stories traverse the spectrum from terrifying (being locked out of her apartment with no way to communicate) to triumphant (surprising her husband at championship games despite seemingly impossible logistics).
What resonates most powerfully is Lesa's journey from college soccer player with a clear identity to finding purpose in a supporting role that often left her feeling invisible. "It was hard for me to feel seen when people were constantly asking me about Chris and his career," she admits. The transformation wasn't immediate—it took years of introspection to recognize the vital importance of her contributions. "I started feeling like his successes were also mine," she shares, a perspective that became crucial to navigating their unconventional life together.
Throughout these challenges, faith served as Lisa's anchor, especially during the many times Chris was traveling while she managed their growing family alone in foreign countries where she couldn't speak the language. Her experience offers wisdom for anyone facing unexpected turns: "You are strong enough... It's going to be messy, it's not going to look like the path that you see in your head, and that's okay."
Ready to experience this extraordinary journey for yourself? Grab Lesa's memoir "Behind the Bench" on Amazon or at BehindTheBenchBookstore.com and discover how adventure, when embraced with courage and faith, transforms challenges into the most meaningful chapters of our lives.
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178 - The road to redemption isn't always straight, and nobody knows this better than Garr Russell. From sitting in a jail cell in fifth grade to building a nationwide RV rental franchise with 70 locations, Garr's journey proves that our darkest chapters can become the foundation for something beautiful.
After his parents' divorce set him on a troubled path, Garr spiraled through expulsion, dropping out, and eventually dealing drugs. Rock bottom came with multiple arrests, but transformation arrived in an unexpected form – a coworker who simply asked him to read the Bible aloud during their shifts. This small invitation sparked a profound spiritual awakening that completely redirected Garr's life.
Years later, when an anniversary gift of an RV for his pregnant wife didn't quite land as expected (she left the campground early!), Garr's entrepreneurial mind saw opportunity. Fireside RV Rental was born, built not by purchasing a fleet of vehicles but by managing other people's assets – a brilliant model that allowed rapid growth without massive debt.
The RV lifestyle eventually became more than business for the Russell family. Following a challenging situation with one of their children, they hit the road full-time for five years, homeschooling their four kids along the way. Their adventures created lasting memories, but Garr's favorite wasn't at some grand national park – it was sitting beside a small river, making stick boats with his children, completely disconnected from life's pressures.
Garr has documented his journey in two books and continues to expand his entrepreneurial vision, recently purchasing a historic diner in his Florida town. Through it all, he maintains that "life happens for you, not to you," turning painful experiences into purpose. His mission now? Serving Christian entrepreneurs and supporting his family in fulfilling their unique callings.
Whether you're facing your own crossroads or simply love stories of radical transformation, Gar's journey reminds us that our past doesn't dictate our future – and sometimes the most meaningful adventures happen when we're brave enough to change direction.
To learn more about Garr, his books and Fireside RV Rental check out www.firesidervrental.com and www.myhisstory.com.
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177 - What happens when childhood play transforms into serious sport? In this eye-opening conversation, we saddle up with Kht Shetty, a 20-year-old Polish hobby horse competitor and coach who's redefining what it means to "horse around."
Hobby horsing—a sport where participants jump obstacles up to 1.3 meters high while carrying handcrafted stick horses—combines athletic prowess, creative craftsmanship, and equestrian rules into something truly unique. Shetty walks us through this fascinating world, from its Scandinavian origins to the international competitions she now hosts. With remarkable maturity, she explains how the sport mirrors traditional equestrian events like show jumping and dressage, requiring serious training and physical preparation.
What's particularly striking about Shetty's journey is her resilience in the face of online criticism. Despite facing cruel comments and even death threats simply for participating in this harmless activity, she remains focused on nurturing the community, especially younger hobbyists who look up to her. The moment she realized her impact—when children lined up for her autograph at a Czech Republic event—stands as a powerful testament to how seemingly niche pursuits can create meaningful connections.
Beyond the jumps and competitions, hobby horsing has provided Shetty with entrepreneurial opportunities, leadership skills, and a global community. Her story challenges our assumptions about play and sport while demonstrating how passion, when pursued authentically, can transform both individual lives and communities. Whether you're an equestrian enthusiast or simply curious about unconventional paths, this conversation will have you reconsidering the power of play in our lives.
Ready to see hobby horsing in action? Follow Shetty on Instagram @kht_shetty and discover this remarkable sport for yourself!
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176 - What does it take to sail around the world? For Alison Gieschen, it's required facing her worst fears while clinging to a dream she's had since childhood. From the moment she and her husband Dan met at a sailboat race and discovered their shared ambition to circumnavigate the globe, their path was set – though hardly smooth sailing.
Alison's journey began far from any ocean, on a 100-acre farm in upstate New York where she developed her first great passion: horses. Rising to elite competitive levels and eventually building her own equestrian vaulting program that became the largest on the East Coast, she never imagined trading stable ground for the unpredictable waves. Yet when she met Dan, something clicked. After just one weekend together, they recognized in each other the perfect sailing partner, and soon after, life partner.
Now seven years into their global circumnavigation, Alison shares harrowing tales that would make most people head straight for land – surviving "The Perfect Storm" with 20-foot waves that ripped equipment from their boat, enduring five catastrophic failures during a Pacific crossing, and facing a tsunami just days after reaching French Polynesia. Through it all, she's maintained her creative spirit, writing prolifically across genres from sailing memoirs to horse novels to children's books about mermaids.
What makes Alison's story particularly compelling is her honesty about fear. Despite visiting nearly 50 countries by sea, she calls herself "the bravest chicken on the planet." This paradox captures something essential about courage – it's not fearlessness but perseverance despite terror. When their first ocean crossing went terribly wrong, a chance encounter with her sailing mentor provided the perspective she needed: surviving your worst fears is actually a gift that proves you can handle anything.
Whether you're dreaming of distant horizons or simply looking for inspiration to face your own challenges, Alison's adventures remind us that, as she puts it, "Life is what you make of it, and if you have a dream, you need to go for it, because life's too short not to."
To learn more about Alison and get her books check out www.alisongieschen.com.
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Bonus 11 - Sexual assault fundamentally changes lives, but it doesn't have to define them. In this powerful bonus episode, Amanda Villarini talks about the night that altered her path forever, when what began as a casual gathering with friends ended in betrayal and trauma.
Amanda's story exposes the painful reality that sometimes our most devastating wounds come from those we trust. With remarkable courage, she walks us through not only the assault itself, but the complicated aftermath – from the invasive rape kit process to a justice system that ultimately failed her. Despite physical evidence and clear signs of non-consent, Amanda found herself facing the all-too-common "three against one" dismissal of her case. Years later, she would discover her rape kit remained sealed and unexamined, joining countless others in a system that often leaves survivors without closure.
What makes Amanda's testimony so powerful isn't just her willingness to revisit this trauma, but her insight into the complex journey of healing that followed. From developing protective mechanisms like baggy clothing and tattoos to navigating the complicated terrain of trust and intimacy afterward, she offers a window into the long-term ripple effects of sexual violence. Yet through it all, Amanda refuses to surrender her future to this single event. Ten years later, she's building a life of purpose – traveling, working, nurturing relationships, and planning for marriage and children.
For listeners who have experienced similar trauma, Amanda offers both practical wisdom (don't shower after assault, preserve evidence, report immediately) and emotional guidance: "Take your time. Time is different for everyone... Everyone's different and don't fret, just take your time, figure it out." Her message reinforces that healing isn't linear, and there's no universal timeline for recovery.
Connect with Amanda through her Instagram or YouTube if you'd like to share your own story. As she reminds us, while there is evil in the world, there is also tremendous good – and sometimes the most powerful step toward healing is simply breaking the silence.
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175 - When Rodney Carpentier first laced up his police patrol boots to tackle a Catskill mountain, he had no idea he was beginning a transformative six-year odyssey that would shape not only his physical resilience but his creative future. Sharing his remarkable journey from unprepared novice to accomplished hiker who conquered all 35 peaks of the challenging Catskills 3500, Rodney reveals how the mountains became his sanctuary during life's most difficult moments.
The trail wasn't just physical for Rodney. Between summits, he navigated profound personal loss, career challenges in law enforcement, and relationship hurdles that tested his resolve. "It was kind of the only thing I looked forward to," he admits, describing how these weekend adventures with his wife provided essential connection and accomplishment during turbulent times. These mountains that once left him breathless and struggling to keep pace gradually became a place of mastery and ultimately, creative inspiration.
What makes Rodney's story particularly compelling is how his mountain adventures eventually gave birth to a second chapter as a mystery novelist. Drawing from his intimate knowledge of the Catskills' rugged terrain and his experiences in law enforcement, he crafted "Our Lady of the Overlook," the first in a trilogy of mystery novels set among the same peaks he spent years exploring. The mountains themselves become almost a character in his writing—unpredictable, beautiful, and occasionally dangerous.
Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure inspiration, creative motivation, or simply a reminder that our challenges often lead to unexpected gifts, Rodney's journey demonstrates how adventure shapes who we become. As he puts it, "Life should be an adventure... if you're not trying to do something new or different or better, that's what makes life worth doing." Visit rlcarpentierwriter.com to explore Rodney's novels and continue following his Catskills journey.
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174 - What does redemption look like at 72 years old? For Rand Timmerman, it meant lacing up his hiking boots and tackling the Appalachian Trail's 2,190 miles alongside his grieving brother—a journey that would test his newfound sobriety, physical limits, and spiritual foundation.
Rand's path to that trailhead was anything but straight. Growing up in poverty after his father contracted polio, he discovered alcohol at 13 and was immediately transformed in his own mind from a skinny teenager to "Clint Eastwood." After impulsively enlisting during Vietnam, where both he and his brother served as helicopter gunners, Rand built a successful 40-year legal career while battling what many would call "functional alcoholism." Meanwhile, his brother Ronnie found faith, becoming a Mormon bishop and building a large blended family—until his wife's death left him shattered and seeking healing in nature.
The brothers' epic hike across 600 mountains became much more than a physical challenge. For Rand, who had found sobriety just years earlier after hitting rock bottom at 65, it was the culmination of a spiritual awakening. "I was standing on a mountain in New Jersey," he recalls, "feeling spiritual power all around me, and I realized God made all of that and I never saw it before." Despite artificial knees, infections, and countless falls, Rand completed 1,863 miles before injuries forced him to stop.
Today, Rand walks eight miles daily and dedicates hours to helping others overcome addiction. His message is beautifully simple: "Just don't drink today, no matter what." His book "A Spiritual Passage" captures both the breathtaking landscapes and inner transformation of a man who discovered it's never too late to surrender to something greater and find purpose in helping others along the same path.
To learn more about Rand and get a copy of his book please visit www.randtimmerman.com.
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173 - The most powerful journeys often begin in life's darkest moments. When Thom Barrett received his stage four cancer diagnosis, he made a decision that would transform his experience – he would embrace each day fully, intentionally, and with an adventurous spirit that defies conventional expectations.
Our conversation with Thom reveals a man who redefined what it means to truly live. A former corporate accountant who retired at 55 to pursue adventure, Thom approaches his terminal diagnosis not as an ending, but as an invitation to deepen his connection with each moment. His definition of adventure resonates deeply: "Adventure doesn't start until you have a problem where you're challenged to figure something out." For Thom, this philosophy applies equally to navigating remote wilderness and living with cancer.
Through breathtaking stories of kayaking in Antarctica, hiking Patagonia, and exploring the polar regions, Thom shares how his relationship with adventure evolved from chasing accomplishments to savoring experiences. "It's not about miles anymore, it's not about summits," he explains, "it's about experiences." This shift mirrors his approach to living with cancer – finding richness in slowing down, noticing more, and appreciating what remains rather than mourning what's lost.
Thom's vulnerability in discussing his journey as an author is equally compelling. His books, including "Living While Dying" and "The Strength of Surrender," emerged from his need to process emotions and leave a legacy. Perhaps most touching is his revelation about learning to accept help: "What I learned is that asking for help is not a weakness, it's a strength," challenging traditional notions of masculinity and revealing how terminal illness opened pathways to deeper human connection.
Whether you're facing health challenges, seeking adventure, or simply wanting to live more fully, Thom's wisdom offers a roadmap for embracing life on deeper terms. As he suggests, "Be a birdwalker, go slow, look around you, enjoy the moment." What better invitation could there be to transform how we experience our precious time? Listen now and discover how to live richly in the face of life's greatest challenges.
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172 - Ever wonder what it's like to break a school record in your final race? Or how someone finds their calling at just 21 years old? Meet McKella Leeper, whose enthusiasm for life bubbles up like the wake behind a powerful swimmer.
McKella's journey began when her family moved closer to her father's workplace, with the promise that he would coach his daughters in swimming. This decision transformed not just her athletic path but her relationship with her father. "Swimming is the one thing that me and my dad can just go on for hours about," she shares, revealing how their coaching partnership bridged communication gaps and created a unique father-daughter bond.
Her competitive swimming career culminated in an unforgettable moment – breaking her school's 100m breaststroke record by over a second in her final high school race. After narrowly missing finals qualification and "crying in the back of the bus," McKella returned the next day with renewed determination. "I hit the wall and listened... I can hear my mom and all of the parents... I can hear my teammates behind me... and I turned around and looked at the time and saw how big of a drop it was," she recounts, her excitement still palpable years later.
Beyond the pool, McKella created an "ABC Adventure Challenge" during her boyfriend's mission, committing to weekly adventures organized alphabetically. This practice taught her a profound lesson about personal agency: "I realized how much control I had over my situation versus my situation had on me." From ice baths to mountain views with her mom, these adventures became anchors of joy and self-discovery.
Now a newlywed and recent college graduate, McKella is embarking on her career as a high school language arts teacher while continuing to coach swimming. Her approach to coaching mirrors her life philosophy – focusing on technique and fostering love for the sport rather than just results. "I coach to see everyone improve and grow," she explains, embodying the same supportive approach her father modeled.
What makes McKella's story so compelling is how she weaves together swimming, faith, teaching, and relationships into a purposeful life at such a young age. As she says, "You can learn something from anybody" – a reminder that wisdom isn't always tied to years but to openness and experience.
Join us for this refreshing conversation about passion, purpose, and navigating life's currents. Have you found your personal adventure challenge yet?
To see what McKella is up to be sure and follow her on Instagram @mck_swims.
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Have you ever wondered what Africa was like before satellite phones, GPS navigation, and carefully curated safari experiences? Barry Maughan's remarkable journey from Alexandria to South Africa during the tumultuous late 1960s offers a window into a continent few modern travelers will ever experience.
Barry's adventure began with a chance encounter that would set the tone for his entire expedition. After meeting an Egyptian general, what could have been a casual exchange blossomed into extraordinary access to Cairo during the War of Attrition. This serendipitous connection – having his VW camper transported by train while being guarded by armed soldiers – illustrates the unexpected kindness that defined his journey through Africa.
What makes this story truly exceptional is the historical context. Barry traveled through countries experiencing the early days of independence, navigated borders during the rise of dictators like Idi Amin and Muammar Gaddafi, and witnessed a continent in transition. Without electronic tethers – no phones, no GPS, not even reliable maps – Barry and his family relied on ingenuity, observation, and the goodwill of strangers. When their son Kevin was born in Ethiopia, this blue-eyed, towheaded child became what Barry calls their "goodwill ambassador," opening doors to experiences and connections that might otherwise have remained closed.
Throughout our conversation, Barry returns to a fundamental truth discovered on dusty roads and in remote villages: behind cultural differences and diverse circumstances, people share universal desires – safety for their families, enough food on the table, and minimal government interference in their lives. The Africans they met consistently offered help without expectation of payment, whether pushing their vehicle from mud, guiding them across rivers, or simply sharing what little food they had.
Barry's book "Beneath the African Sun" captures these experiences not for commercial success but to preserve a legacy of adventure and human connection for future generations. At 84, his definition of adventure remains powerful: "searching for the heretofore unknown" and "not being afraid of what's around the next bend." His journey reminds us that the most meaningful adventures aren't about conquering places but connecting with them – a lesson as relevant today as it was fifty years ago.
Check out Barry's website www.barrymaughan.com to learn more about Barry and get a copy of his book, "Beneath the African Sun."
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170 - Ever wondered what it would be like to turn your healthcare career into an adventure? Aaron Bowe transforms this dream into reality as a traveling physical therapist who has crafted a nomadic lifestyle that combines professional growth with unforgettable experiences across America's most breathtaking landscapes.
Aaron reveals the unexpected financial benefits of travel therapy that most healthcare professionals never discover. With 60-70% of his income coming from untaxed housing and meal stipends, he's accelerating student loan payoff while experiencing more of life than his permanently-placed colleagues. This arrangement doesn't just make financial sense—it opens doors to experiences most people only dream about.
The conversation takes us across the country from the foggy coastline of Seaside, Oregon to the tropical shores of Maui, where Aaron learned to spearfish, and remote Alaska, where local fishermen shared their hard-earned knowledge. Each location transformed him in unexpected ways, challenging him to embrace new activities and perspectives. Together with his wife (an occupational therapist) and sister-in-law (a speech therapist), this "Travel Therapy Trio" has mastered the art of negotiating contracts, finding housing, and maximizing both adventure and income.
What's particularly fascinating is Aaron's perspective on how this lifestyle shapes identity. "We have gotten into so many activities that we never would have done if we weren't traveling," he explains, describing how moving every few months eliminates the intimidation of trying new things. This continuous growth and openness to experience has fundamentally changed how he approaches life.
Whether you're a healthcare professional curious about alternative career paths or simply someone who dreams of more adventure, Aaron's journey demonstrates that with careful planning, you can transform your career into something that nourishes both your bank account and your soul. Curious about combining purpose with adventure? This conversation might just be the permission slip you need to take the leap.
To learn more about Aaron check out his website www.traveltherapytrio.com and give him a follow on Instagram @traveltherapytrio.
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What happens when you choose freedom over fear? Michelle Coulson's story reveals the extraordinary path that unfolds when you dare to break free from conventional expectations.
Michelle always knew she wasn't destined for the traditional path. Even as a child growing up in a small town outside Manchester, she dreamed of life "abroad" – though she couldn't yet define where that would be. After a year in Spain with her family at age 12, the seed of adventure took root, setting her on a trajectory that would eventually lead to solo cycling across Europe and founding a business that helps others reclaim their freedom.
Her journey weaves through working at a Florida country club in her twenties (where she formed her initial impressions of Americans), spontaneously visiting Times Square for New Year's Eve with a stranger she met on the subway, and eventually embarking on a transformative solo cycling trip from Montenegro to France. Despite the challenges of mountain terrain, cold temperatures, and loneliness, this journey crystallized her understanding of what truly matters in life.
When the pandemic hit, Michelle's adventurous spirit couldn't be contained by lockdown restrictions. She escaped to Cornwall in search of surf and her "happy place" by the ocean, eventually making her way to Bali in 2021. When her employer demanded she return to the office after 18 months of successful remote work, Michelle made the bold decision to quit rather than compromise her freedom.
This pivotal moment led to the birth of Remote Rebellion, her company dedicated to helping others secure remote work that aligns with their values and desired lifestyle. Drawing from her extensive recruitment experience and personal journey, Michelle now leads a global team scattered across seven countries, proving that work can happen from anywhere when you build with intention.
Whether you're contemplating a career change, dreaming of location independence, or simply seeking inspiration to live more adventurously, Michelle's story demonstrates that the question isn't whether you can break free – it's whether you're willing to take that first step. As she says, adventure means "breaking out of your comfort zone and trying something a little new and maybe a little scary."
Ready to rebel against limitations and design a life on your own terms? Visit remoterebellion.com and follow Michelle's journey on Instagram at @remote_rebellion.
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168 - "Collect moments, not things." It's a philosophy that sounds simple but runs counter to our consumer-driven culture. Cody Sudmeier, founder of Spur Experiences, joins the show to explore why shared adventures create more meaningful connections and lasting happiness than material possessions.
After leaving a successful consulting career that felt increasingly unfulfilling, Cody found himself at a wedding shopping for last-minute registry gifts. The only item left? A $120 set of salt and pepper shakers for a couple who had traveled the world. This disconnect sparked the creation of Spur Experiences—a company that allows people to gift memorable adventures rather than forgettable things.
Scientific research backs his approach. Studies show experiences create happiness at three distinct points: anticipation before the event, enjoyment during the activity, and lasting memories afterward. While material purchases create a brief dopamine spike that quickly fades, experiences continue generating joy years later through shared stories and connections.
What began as a wedding registry alternative has expanded into a platform offering over 7,000 experiences across 80 countries—from wine tastings and spa days to helicopter tours and once-in-a-lifetime adventures. Through personal stories about rappelling down waterfalls, exploring Antarctica, and surviving the challenges of COVID, Cody demonstrates how prioritizing experiences has transformed his own life.
For anyone feeling stuck in routine or unsure about what truly matters, this conversation offers a compelling reminder: fill up your calendar, not your cabinets. Your future self will thank you for the memories.
To learn more about Cody and Spur Experiences check out www.spurexperiences.com and be sure to follow them on Instagram @spurexperiences.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Bonus 10 - What happens when a former Army Ranger and Special Forces veteran finally reveals classified missions conducted during some of history's most volatile conflicts? Chris Brewer's military journey spans 24 remarkable years, from the reactivation of the 1st Ranger Battalion in 1974 to covert operations in Colombia during the Pablo Escobar era.
In this gripping conversation, Chris takes us behind enemy lines into a world few civilians ever glimpse. Operating in civilian clothes with minimal support, his six-person team would check in just once weekly via HF radio to confirm they were still alive. While bombs exploded nightly in Bogota streets and gunfire erupted regularly, Chris and his team navigated this dangerous terrain while establishing a medical corpsman school as their cover mission. The real objective? A classified operation straight out of a Tom Clancy novel.
Behind the tactical stories lies a deeply human journey. Chris opens up about raising his son as a single father while serving in Special Forces, depending on military friends to care for his child during deployments. His candid discussion of surviving rocket attacks and processing trauma offers rare insight into the psychological resilience required in elite military units. "You wake up and the first thing through your mind is I can't breathe," Chris explains, describing the aftermath of explosions that left him sleeping in rooms riddled with shrapnel.
What makes Special Forces different from other military units? As Chris explains, "When there's only six of you, or 12 of you out there, all by yourself, a long way from home, you're probably not going to win very many gunfights." The key to survival isn't superior firepower but building relationships with local populations and understanding their needs—a philosophy that guided his entire career.
Check out Chris's books "In the Shadows Between the Wars" and "Old Scroll Ranger" on Amazon to dive deeper into these declassified stories that shaped global security while remaining hidden from public view for decades. These firsthand accounts provide an unfiltered look at military service that will change how you understand modern warfare.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
167 - What drives someone to abandon their shoes and run barefoot through mountains, forests, and even snow? In this captivating conversation, Ken Posner reveals the unexpected journey that turned him from a corporate professional with chronic running injuries into a barefoot endurance athlete who's completed thousands of miles without shoes.
Ken's transformation began pragmatically – seeking relief from injury and following the principles in Christopher McDougall's "Born to Run." But what started as injury prevention blossomed into a life philosophy. Far from merely a physical adjustment, going barefoot created what Ken calls "the original human mindfulness." When your feet are unprotected, large portions of your brain that normally process worry must instead focus on safely navigating terrain, creating a natural state of presence that's increasingly rare in our hyper-connected world.
The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Ken shares his remarkable accomplishment of completing "the grid" – climbing all 35 Catskill peaks every month for a year, totaling 420 ascents. This monumental challenge emerged during a period when his corporate career had plateaued, giving him purpose when he most needed it. Through blizzards, ice, and challenging terrain, Ken discovered that moving slowly through nature was mentally harder than the all-out effort he was accustomed to – a profound lesson for our hurried lives.
Drawing inspiration from American transcendentalists like Thoreau and Emerson, Ken articulates how these physical challenges become spiritual pilgrimages that strip away modern preoccupations and reveal our authentic connection to nature. His current goal of climbing 1,000 mountains barefoot (he's at 521) serves as a structured way to "take himself offline" from conventional life and work on his character.
Whether you're a committed athlete or someone simply curious about reconnecting with natural movement, Ken's insights will change how you think about the ground beneath your feet. Perhaps the wisdom we seek is already there – if only we're brave enough to feel it.
To learn more about Ken and his book, Chasing the Grid, check out his website www.barefootken.com and give him a follow on Instagram @long_brown_path.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
166 - What happens when your adventurous spirit collides with a life-changing diagnosis? Meet Brooke King, a fearless 29-year-old who refuses to let thyroid cancer dim her extraordinary approach to life.
Brooke's story begins in Chicago, where she lived a successful but predictable life as a young homeowner. When COVID hit, something shifted - that innate desire for adventure could no longer be contained. She sold her house and embraced alternative living - from boats to school buses - launching herself into experiences most would never dare attempt. Hitchhiking on the "Desert Snake" (the world's deadliest train) through the Sahara Desert? Check. Tracking down a floating grocery store yacht in Turkey? Absolutely. Dog attack training? Why not?
Then came the unexpected plot twist - a thyroid cancer diagnosis that might have derailed someone with less resilience. But for Brooke, this became another adventure to navigate with the same determination that helped her travel solo through remote parts of Africa. "I didn't want to just heal from cancer and get through it," she explains. "I wanted to rise above it."
Now, Brooke is channeling her energy into training for a 72-hour rowing expedition across the Mediterranean from Barcelona to Ibiza. What was already on her bucket list has transformed into "Row to Remission" - a powerful statement of hope and a fundraiser for cancer research. She'll row alongside three other women, including a former Olympian, taking two-hour shifts around the clock with minimal sleep.
Brooke's philosophy about adventure is refreshingly accessible: "Adventure is intentionally trying something new." It doesn't require traveling to exotic locations or extreme sports - it simply means choosing growth and new experiences for their own sake. Through her story, she reminds us that our greatest adventures often arrive disguised as our greatest challenges.
Follow Brooke's journey on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok @brookesjoyrides or visit brookesjoyrides.com to support her cancer fundraising efforts. As she says with infectious enthusiasm: "There's no time to waste."
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
165 - The Missouri River winds through America's heartland like a massive, muddy snake—but what's it like to follow it from source to mouth? Larry Campbell, a retired math professor, did exactly that in a life-changing seven-week adventure that transformed his understanding of this iconic waterway.
Larry's journey began at Three Forks, Montana, where he made the startling discovery that the Missouri begins by flowing north, not south as many assume. From there, he traced the river's 2,300-mile path through seven states, 27 cities, and centuries of American history. Along the way, he walked in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, often standing in the exact spots where these legendary explorers had stood more than two centuries earlier.
What makes Larry's story so captivating isn't just the magnificent landscapes or historical sites—it's the "human treasures" he encountered. There's the story of Shep, a loyal dog who greeted trains daily for five years hoping his deceased owner would return. There's the Swiss woman who found freedom in South Dakota's vast open spaces after leaving the confines of alpine Europe. And there's the unexpected discovery that Larry's own great-great-grandfather was one of the founders of Atchison, Kansas, a revelation that gave his journey a deeply personal dimension.
The Missouri River isn't just water flowing through America—it's a cultural dividing line separating farmers from ranchers, splitting cities across state lines, and even creating time zone boundaries in places like Pierre and Fort Pierre. Larry's vivid descriptions bring these fascinating quirks to life, showing how the river has shaped not just the landscape but the very identity of the communities along its banks.
Ready to experience this fascinating journey yourself? Pick up Larry's beautifully illustrated book "Rollin' Down the River: Discovering People and Places Along the Mighty Missouri," featuring 200 photographs and stories that will make you feel like you're traveling alongside him. Contact Larry directly for a signed copy at a special discount for podcast listeners—and discover why this adventure became so much more than just a trip down a river. You can reach Larry by email larrycampbell@missouristate.edu or check out his website www.larryncampbell.com.
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Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
164 - What healing power can be found in visiting sites of tragedy and suffering? For Dr. Chad Scott, dark tourism became an unexpected lifeline during his darkest days.
When severe health issues led to a liver transplant, Dr. Scott discovered profound meaning and purpose by exploring places marked by historical tragedy. From standing in gas chambers at Auschwitz to witnessing the aftermath of atomic destruction in Hiroshima, these powerful experiences helped him process his own struggles with divorce, career setbacks, and chronic illness.
"When you're going through hell, keep going," became his mantra, borrowed from Churchill's famous words. Throughout our conversation, Chad reveals how confronting mortality at history's darkest sites paradoxically taught him to live with greater intention and purpose. The practice of "memento mori"—remembering one's mortality—isn't about dwelling in darkness, but using awareness of life's brevity to live more meaningfully.
As a therapist with decades of experience, Chad brings unique professional insights to how dark tourism functions as a form of existential therapy. He explains that standing in places where countless people suffered and died doesn't leave you unchanged—it transforms you into someone with deeper compassion and greater resilience. These experiences, from Paris catacombs to plantation slavery museums, challenge visitors to connect with humanity's shared suffering while finding strength in storytelling and remembrance.
Chad's journey culminated in his book "Beyond the Darkness: Transformative Journeys Through Dark Tourism," where he details how these profound experiences helped him overcome crippling anxiety and find purpose during his health crisis. His story reminds us that sometimes the path through personal darkness requires confronting humanity's darkest moments—not to wallow in despair, but to find the meaning that illuminates our way forward.
Listen to discover how pushing beyond your comfort zone—whether through adventure or confronting difficult histories—might just transform your own life. What places have changed you? Where might you go to find yourself?
To learn more about Dr. Chad Scott and Dark Tourism visit his website www.drchadscott.com. You can also purchase a copy of his book from his website.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
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Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Episode 163 - What would it take for you to completely reimagine your family's life? For Brandon and Amber Morse, it happened around a campfire in the mountains of Idaho when they asked themselves a simple yet profound question: what if we could break free from the daily grind and truly connect as a family?
That conversation led them to sell nearly everything they owned, pull their four children from traditional school, and embark on an adventure that began in an RV and evolved into living full-time aboard a catamaran sailing through the Caribbean. With zero sailing experience and plenty of well-meaning skeptics, the Morris family pushed past their fears to create an extraordinary life on the water.
Their journey hasn't been without challenges. From freezing temperatures with no heat during their first month aboard to navigating medical emergencies in remote locations, the learning curve has been steep. As Brandon describes it, "The lows are low, but the highs are incredibly high." Those highs include dolphins swimming alongside their children, spearfishing for dinner, and watching the sunset from anchorages few travelers ever experience.
What's most remarkable about their story is how their children have transformed. Their oldest daughter, initially devastated to leave her competitive dance career, became an accomplished free diver reaching depths of over 70 feet. Their naturally shy daughter now confidently speaks with people from around the world. As Amber notes, "Kids are way more resilient than we give them credit for – all they really need is loving parents and a good household environment."
Now approaching their fourth year of boat life and having visited 21 countries throughout the Caribbean, the Morse family is considering how to help other families make similar transitions. They've discovered that courage begets courage – each step outside their comfort zone has prepared them for the next adventure.
Whether you dream of sailing away or simply creating more meaningful family connections, this conversation will inspire you to question conventional wisdom about what makes a good life. Follow their continuing journey on Instagram at @_everydaysaturday or check out their website www.everydaysaturday.com.
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What happens when you hit all the milestones society tells you to chase, yet still feel empty inside? For Jeremy George, that existential crisis led to a year-long battle with suicidal thoughts despite having a beautiful New York apartment, career success, and financial stability.
Everything changed when three consecutive wake-up calls shattered Jeremy's perception of what makes a meaningful life. His mother's near-death experience during a routine surgery, the global pandemic's stark reminder of life's fragility, and unexpectedly losing his job created the perfect storm that forced Jeremy to confront a powerful question: If so much in life is beyond our control, why not intentionally pursue what truly matters?
His answer was bold – attempt 52 bucket list items in 52 weeks. But Jeremy's adventure wasn't about adrenaline stunts or Instagram-worthy moments (though he did bike 650 miles down the California coast and go cliff jumping in Hawaii). The true transformation came through his one fundamental rule: recruit at least one person to help with each goal. This simple principle revealed something profound – our most meaningful experiences come through connection, not achievement.
Jeremy completed 32 of his 52 goals – what he calls a "D-minus" by academic standards. Yet this "failure" became one of his most valuable lessons. Whether getting rejected from reality TV shows or losing miserably while trying to multiply money in Las Vegas, he discovered life's richness comes from attempting what matters, not necessarily succeeding.
This revelation inspired Jeremy to create Bucket Match, a platform connecting people based on shared bucket list goals, making dreams more achievable through community. After all, sharing your goals with others makes you nearly 78% more likely to achieve them than keeping them to yourself.
Ready to rediscover what truly matters to you? Listen now, then visit bucketmatch.ai to find your own bucket list community. You can also follow Jeremy on Instagram @bucketmatch.ai.
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Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Bonus 9 - What happens when a podcast host puts his own son in the guest seat? Pure magic. In this heartwarming Memorial Day bonus episode, Jake welcomes his eldest son Josh for a conversation that bridges generations, creative pursuits, and shared family memories.
Josh, who made Jake a father 25 years ago after being born prematurely at just three pounds, has grown into a creative force who now manages his own growing YouTube channel, Tri Nintendo. Their conversation weaves through cherished family traditions—from Wednesday night Survivor viewings paired with Taco Bell (a multi-generational Bushman obsession) to their numerous Disney adventures that actually inspired the concept behind Journey with Jake.
The father-son dynamic shines through as they recall specific memories, like driving up Mount Evans in Colorado and Josh's first encounters with video games at age five ("I'm just so interested in games!"). We witness the beautiful evolution of Josh's gaming passion, which began with borrowed Nintendo consoles from friends and relatives, into his current creative outlet combining gaming insights with his professional design skills.
What makes this episode special is the mutual admiration flowing both ways. Jake expresses pride in Josh's talent and consistency in building his channel to nearly 10,000 subscribers in just five months, while Josh acknowledges learning the value of diligence and hard work from his father. Their rapport reveals how family connections provide the foundation for our individual journeys into new territory.
The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions covering Josh's favorite Nintendo games, Disney rides, and even his standard Taco Bell order (bean burrito, no onions, extra red sauce and a crunchy taco). When asked what adventure means to him, Josh offers a beautifully simple definition: "something new."
Ready for a feel-good listening experience that celebrates family bonds and creative passion? This father-son conversation delivers exactly that. And don't forget to check out Josh's YouTube channel at @TriNintendo – even if you're not a gaming fan, his creativity and production quality are worth experiencing!
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
What does it really mean to travel authentically in a world dominated by filtered Instagram perfection? Buster Upton, a 26-year-old Australian adventurer, has the honest answer—and it's not what you might expect.
From his spontaneous childhood road trips with his adventure-loving mother to finding himself enrolled in a Finnish school at 16 (instead of dropping out), Buster's approach to travel has always been refreshingly genuine. At just 18, he quit his first construction job, used his dual Irish citizenship, and set off to backpack across Europe—a pattern that would define his approach to exploring the world.
The magic of Buster's storytelling lies in his willingness to share both the highlights and the gritty reality of long-term travel. Standing amid the haunting remnants of Chernobyl, participating in Laos' water-drenched Buddhist New Year celebrations, or finding himself stranded in a Filipino town with no water or electricity—these experiences reveal the true essence of exploration. As Buster puts it, "90% of backpacking isn't glamorous," but those challenges make the journey worthwhile.
Unlike the travel influencers who portray laptop-driven nomadic lifestyles, Buster's method is beautifully straightforward: work hard in construction back home, save aggressively, then purchase a one-way ticket to somewhere new. His preference for Couchsurfing with locals rather than staying in hotels offers authentic cultural immersion that can't be captured in a carefully staged photo.
For Buster, adventure means embracing the unknown with a hint of fear, stepping completely out of your comfort zone, and becoming "a drop in the ocean" of someone else's normal life. His stories will inspire you to look beyond the perfect Instagram shot and discover what travel really means—connecting with the world as it actually exists.
Ready to rethink what adventure truly means? Subscribe now to hear more transformative journeys and follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast for clips from this and future episodes.
To follow along with Buster give him a follow on Instagram @visit.with.buster.
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Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
"Our heartbeats are the greatest currency we have." This profound insight comes from Tzara Attwater, who turned personal heartbreak into an epic adventure across Australia's vast wilderness. After walking in on her partner of ten years with another woman, Tzara spent years rebuilding herself before making a bold decision during COVID – converting a Toyota Hiace van with just a jigsaw and YouTube tutorials, then circumnavigating the entire Australian continent solo.
The journey tested her in ways she never imagined. There was the time she swam blissfully in Northern Territory waters for days before learning they were crocodile-infested. Or the harrowing seven-hour rescue operation after she broke her leg falling into a gorge, with death adder snakes slithering beneath her stretcher before being airlifted to Perth.
As a relationship development coach specializing in anxious attachment styles, Tzara's adventure wasn't just geographical – it was emotional. She discovered that true confidence comes from knowing you're complete on your own, making relationships choices based on desire rather than need. Throughout her 30,000-kilometer odyssey, she continued working with clients online, helping them find their voices while she reclaimed her own.
What makes Tzara's story extraordinary isn't just her courage but her philosophy on life, shaped by losing her mother at eight years old. This awareness of mortality fuels her approach to both adventure and relationships – being present, setting boundaries, and spending your limited "heartbeats" wisely.
Ready for adventure in your relationships or life journey? Tzara's story proves that sometimes the most meaningful growth happens when we drive straight into the unknown.
Be sure and follow along with Tzara and get access to her ebooks by visiting www.myconfidencecoach.com.au.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
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What does freedom look like when you navigate the world on wheels? For Jenna Udenberg, it arrived in the form of a Firefly - an electric attachment that transformed her manual wheelchair into an adventure vehicle capable of tackling trails she'd only viewed longingly from afar.
Diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at age seven and using a wheelchair by eight, Jenna refused to let her mobility challenges define her life's boundaries. From becoming a left-handed trumpet player (despite being told it wasn't possible) to creating adaptive music programs that helped non-verbal students find their voice, her journey exemplifies resilience and creative problem-solving.
The pandemic marked a turning point when Jenna left her 19-year teaching career and discovered a new calling as a disability advocate. Through her nonprofit "Above and Beyond With U," she champions the philosophy that true accessibility transcends mere ADA compliance checklists. As she powerfully states, "Nothing for us without us" - accessibility planning must include disabled voices from the very beginning.
Our conversation explores how Jenna discovered newfound independence on Minnesota's state park trails, the transformative power of community support, and why her autobiography is titled "Within My Spokes." You'll gain fresh perspective on what adventure truly means and how accessibility benefits everyone.
Whether you're disabled, know someone who is, or simply care about creating a more inclusive world, Jenna's insights will change how you think about accessibility in outdoor spaces. Listen now to hear more inspiring stories of people finding their own unique paths to adventure despite life's challenges.
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158 - What if your moments of greatest confusion were actually doorways to your most authentic self? Giovanna Silvestre's remarkable journey proves exactly that. From the high-pressure halls of Hollywood to the difficult decision of walking away from her family's beloved Italian restaurant, Giovanna's path shows how embracing uncertainty becomes your greatest strength.
With refreshing candor, Giovanna shares her descent into depression after attaching her self-worth to external validation—her Hollywood career, the family business, romantic relationships. The turning point? A disciplined approach to rebuilding herself from within through yoga, meditation, and gratitude practices that culminated in a profound spiritual awakening. "I woke up one day and literally felt like I was on Molly," she laughs, describing the natural high that forever shifted her baseline of inner peace.
The conversation takes us through her creation of the "Confused Girl in the City" blog, where weekly adventures from bungee jumping to flying trapeze taught her that confidence comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. We journey alongside Giovanna as she develops a crystal-inspired yoga clothing line that sells internationally, then follows her intuition to Bali and Berlin—spending two years abroad to write her new book "Confused Girl: Find Your Peace in the Chaos."
Giovanna's wisdom resonates deeply: "Confusion is the fuel for your self-discovery journey." Her story proves that when we remove the shame from not having all the answers, we open ourselves to living the life we truly desire. If you're feeling lost, uncertain, or simply curious about your next steps, this episode offers both comfort and practical guidance for transforming your confusion into clarity.
Ready to embrace your own journey? Pre-order Giovanna's book before May 13th at confusedgirlinthecity.com and enter to win a two-night oceanfront stay in Maui!
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
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When David Schafran felt his life spiraling into depression and emptiness, he discovered an unexpected lifeline – salsa dancing. That first night on the dance floor sparked something profound: "It makes me feel so happy because it's so joyous and flavorful and juicy." This moment of clarity eventually led David from his high-stress tech startup in Boston to the vibrant streets of Medellín, Colombia, where he immersed himself in dance for five transformative months.
David's story challenges conventional thinking about wellness and healing. Despite practicing meditation and yoga, these solitary pursuits weren't enough to lift him from his emotional fog. What he desperately needed was connection, expression, and embodied joy – elements he found abundantly in the salsa dancing community. As he puts it, salsa offers three essential gifts: "joy, flavor, and affection."
This revelation didn't just change David's personal life – it birthed a mission. Through his company Soma Loco (meaning "we're crazy together"), he now creates personalized dance immersion experiences that help others discover the same transformative power of movement. Whether you're an experienced dancer or someone who believes they have "two left feet," David's approach proves that dance isn't about performance but feeling. The results speak for themselves, with participants describing the experience as genuinely life-changing.
Ready to discover how movement might transform your life? David's journey reminds us that sometimes healing isn't found in stillness, but in rhythm; not in isolation, but in connection. As he advocates, dance isn't just fun – it's medicine that should be taken seriously as a path to well-being. Follow your curiosity to somoloco.com or @dancesomoloco on Instagram to learn how you might find your own rhythm.
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Bonus 8 - Dr. Douglas Brouwer's journey from Western Michigan to the world and back again offers profound insights into how travel shapes our spiritual lives and understanding of home.
After spending 40 years serving as a Presbyterian pastor around the globe, Doug's adventures took him from maximum security prisons in Philadelphia to a church in Zurich, Switzerland, where he learned German at age 60. His travels weren't merely about seeing new places but about finding deeper meaning and connection with humanity.
The conversation explores Doug's most profound travel experiences, including walking 500 miles along the Camino de Santiago at retirement age. Despite averaging 17 miles daily for 28 days with everything on his back, it was the first night—stranded on a mountainside between France and Spain—that taught him the most powerful lesson about his own limitations. Yet he persevered, meeting fellow pilgrims from around the world who, regardless of religious affiliation, participated in the ancient spiritual rituals along the path.
What makes this episode particularly moving is Doug's reflection on the true purpose of all our wandering. After visiting 48 states and countless countries, writing a book called "The Traveler's Path," and experiencing diverse cultures, he found that his heart's true home was back near Lake Michigan where he began. "All of this moving around, all of the searching that people do, I think, is a search for home," he shares with emotion. "Where is it that I belong?"
Whether you're planning your next adventure or questioning the meaning of your travels, this conversation will challenge your perspective on what makes journeys worthwhile.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
156 - Chris Nance's life reads like an adventure novel where dropping out of school at 13 somehow leads to piloting massive ships down the Mississippi River and co-founding a successful coffee company. Growing up just south of New Orleans in a family of riverboat pilots and commercial fishermen, Chris's education took an unexpected turn after Hurricane Katrina when his mother discontinued homeschooling. Shortly after, his father was imprisoned for tax evasion, pushing Chris into the challenging world of commercial fishing before he could even drive.
The heart of Chris's early journey involves "koonin oysters" – a grueling harvesting method where he crawled through deep mud on hands and knees, using specialized tools to collect oysters from tidal flats. By day's end, he'd be pushing 1,500 pounds of oysters through mud. This backbreaking work built the foundation of grit and determination that would define his future success.
What makes Chris's story truly remarkable is his educational trajectory. Despite having only a GED and significant insecurities about his academic abilities, Chris was encouraged by mentors to pursue higher education. In a decisive moment aboard a tugboat, a captain convinced him he could succeed at Texas A&M Maritime Academy. Within days, Chris had relocated to Galveston and begun classes, ultimately completing his degree in just three years while taking up to 31 credit hours per semester.
Today, Chris navigates massive international vessels along the treacherous Mississippi River as a riverboat pilot and has co-founded Backbone Coffee Company with fellow outdoorsmen. The specialty coffee company roasts to order and aims to honor hardworking Americans building the country. For Chris, adventure must be both difficult and unknown – a philosophy that has guided his extraordinary journey from the muddy oyster beds to the helm of international shipping.
Ready to try premium coffee from someone who understands hard work? Visit backbonecoffee.com and use code JOURNEYWITHJAKE for 15% off your order.
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Most of us dream of adventures in far-off places, but between demanding jobs, packed schedules, and the sheer overwhelm of planning, those dreams often remain just that—dreams. Enter Ross Alcorn, the mastermind behind Itinerary Boss, who's made it his mission to turn travel aspirations into reality for busy professionals.
Ross's journey didn't begin with a goal to start a travel company. It started with a simple need—someone had to plan the group ski trips. As the designated planner among his friends, Ross developed frameworks for orchestrating everything from snowboarding weekends in Colorado to 17-day European adventures spanning multiple countries. These skills, honed over a decade while maintaining a demanding career in healthcare sales, became the foundation for his unique approach to travel planning.
What makes Ross's perspective particularly valuable is his firsthand experience with burnout. After a year with nine weddings and zero personal trips, he recognized a pattern affecting many high-achievers—the inability to prioritize adventure amid professional responsibilities. His response was to create systems that make meaningful travel accessible to those with limited time, teaching busy professionals to leverage credit card rewards, strategic booking windows, and streamlined planning processes.
The stories Ross shares—flying off a boat in Croatia, unexpectedly meeting the Croatian president, navigating Amsterdam's unique souvenirs through airport security—aren't just entertaining anecdotes. They're testament to how stepping outside comfort zones creates memories that far outlast any professional achievement or material purchase. His approach balances adventure with practicality, helping travelers bypass the overwhelm of endless research to focus on experiences that matter.
Ready to transform how you approach travel? Connect with Ross at itineraryboss.com, where you'll find his Stress Free Travel Starter Kit or tune into his podcast "World Travel Made Easy with Itinerary Boss" for weekly insights that make adventure accessible, regardless of how packed your calendar might be.
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154 - Imagine plunging down a 35-foot waterfall strapped inside a kayak, or trying to compose a stunning piano piece that captures the serenity of nature. These are just fragments of Jon Cheney's extraordinary journey as a creator, adventurer, entrepreneur, and man of faith.
From his early years in a musical household where his parents prioritized owning a grand piano before even having proper furniture, to his teenage years in Paraguay learning Spanish, Jon's life has been defined by embracing new challenges. His remarkable ability to master languages – including Mandarin Chinese during his church mission – parallels his approach to music composition, where he sees patterns and structures that most miss.
The heart of our conversation explores Jon's passion for whitewater kayaking and the profound life lessons it's taught him. "You're going to flip over in life," Jon explains with the wisdom of someone who's faced Class 5 rapids and business setbacks alike. "But when you've learned that you can flip over and then get back up and be okay, then the world really opens up." This philosophy has guided him through entrepreneurial ventures, creative pursuits, and personal challenges.
What makes Jon's perspective particularly refreshing is his recent epiphany about pursuing multiple passions. After years of praying for divine guidance on which path to choose – music, adventure, business, or writing – he found peace in Elder Uchtdorf's simple wisdom: "It mattereth not, only be faithful." This liberating principle has energized Jon to embrace all facets of his creative spirit rather than waiting for permission to begin.
Whether you're considering your own adventure into whitewater kayaking, struggling to choose between multiple passions, or simply seeking inspiration from someone who's mastered the art of getting back up after life flips you over, Jon's story will leave you both entertained and equipped with a new perspective on life's rapids. Follow Jon on Instagram @cheneypiano or on his website joncheney.com to continue following his journey of creation and adventure!
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153 - Meet Ryan Mellon, a man who completely transformed his life by breaking free from the grind of 80-hour workweeks to embrace a life of global adventure. For over a decade, Ryan worked grueling 14-hour days, splitting time between fixing deep fryers and sorting packages at UPS, until a transformative two-week trip to Costa Rica ignited a vision for something different.
This captivating conversation tracks Ryan's methodical journey from overworked employee to successful digital nomad coach. After convincing his friends to join a year-long RV adventure across America, Ryan discovered he could leverage his real estate license to earn remotely – the pivotal realization that launched his location-independent lifestyle. Seven years later, he's worked from 23 US states and 22 countries while developing multiple income streams.
Ryan breaks down the three primary paths to digital nomadism – remote employment, freelancing, and entrepreneurship – offering practical insights for anyone considering this increasingly accessible lifestyle. With 66 countries now offering digital nomad visas and co-living spaces emerging worldwide, the barriers to location-independence continue to fall.
The episode brims with riveting travel tales, from motorcycle journeys through rural Vietnamese mountains to living on catamarans in crystal-clear Bahamian waters. Ryan shares both the extraordinary benefits of digital nomad life and its genuine challenges, including navigating internet reliability and combating occasional loneliness.
Now operating as a "hybrid nomad," Ryan splits his time between summers on his Virginia sailboat and winters abroad, with Bali emerging as his absolute favorite destination. His coaching practice helps others create their own versions of freedom, whether that means full-time travel or simply more flexibility and autonomy in daily life.
Ready to reimagine what's possible in your work and life? This conversation might just be the permission slip you need to explore new horizons. What adventure awaits when you step beyond conventional boundaries?
To learn more about Ryan and his coaching be sure to check out his website thedigitalnomadcoach.com and you can also check out his Instagram account @thedigitalnomadcoach.
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The untold story of how a young Peruvian boy's fascination with National Geographic magazines transformed into a life dedicated to global exploration unfolds in my conversation with Jorge Salas Guevara. As founder of New Paths Expeditions, Jorge has crafted extraordinary journeys to 58 destinations across our planet's most remote corners while personally visiting over 102 unique locations.
Jorge's adventure began in the Peruvian Andes, traveling treacherous mountain roads with his family to connect with their ancestral culture. His grandfather's worldwide travels and gift of National Geographic magazines sparked a passion that later flourished when Jorge discovered rock climbing while studying in Chile. A chance opportunity replacing an ailing guide in Patagonia launched his career leading global expeditions, eventually rising to leadership positions in major travel companies before founding New Paths Expeditions, now celebrating its tenth anniversary.
What sets Jorge's approach apart is his dedication to balancing nature with authentic cultural immersion. While his small groups of 10-12 travelers witness spectacular wildlife in destinations like the Pantanal (jaguars), Madagascar (lemurs), and Papua New Guinea (birds of paradise), they also experience meaningful human connections. Jorge arranges cooking classes with local grandmothers, private lectures with renowned archaeologists, and spontaneous "pop-up opportunities" like visiting Berber nomad camps. His 27-year relationship with Papua New Guinea has made him an honorary member of two indigenous clans, giving his groups unparalleled access to one of Earth's most fascinating cultural frontiers, where people maintaining Stone Age traditions simultaneously navigate the modern world with smartphones.
Whether you're captivated by wildlife photography, cultural anthropology, or simply seeking experiences that transcend ordinary tourism, Jorge's philosophy of adventure as "discovery" offers a refreshing perspective on meaningful travel. Connect with New Paths Expeditions to discover how your next journey might become the adventure of a lifetime.
To learn more about Jorge follow check out New Paths Expeditions npexpeditions.com and check out their Instagram page @npexpeditions.
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Bonus 7 - Unlock your motivation in our latest episode featuring Devan Gonzalez, a dynamic entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast whose journey inspires countless individuals. From a young age, Devan was pushed to explore different sports, leading him to become a martial arts instructor at just 13. This early exposure laid the groundwork for his lifelong passion for fitness and entrepreneurship.
In this engaging conversation, Devan reveals how he transitioned from personal training into founding Strive 11 Fitness—a unique gym model that mixes the energy of boot camps with the personal touch of individualized training. Through a flexible schedule and passionate coaching, Strive 11 allows members to achieve their fitness goals while fitting seamlessly into busy lives.
Delving deeper, Devan shares valuable insights on the critical role of mindset in overcoming obstacles and building a lasting legacy. He emphasizes that our beliefs can significantly impact our actions, shaping our personal and professional paths. Learn how Devan masterfully balances family life with the demands of being a successful entrepreneur, reminding us that presence within our homes is just as important as our pursuits outside.
Ready to break limits and inspire greatness? Tune in to this motivational episode, and don’t forget to visit Devan's website www.devangonzalez.com for resources and further inspiration! Subscribe, share, and leave a review to support our journey as we explore fascinating stories from remarkable individuals.
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151 - What could inspire someone to leave a stable engineering career and venture into the unknown on a bicycle? Meet Jacob Lemanski, whose incredible journey of 999 days biking across the globe defies expectations and challenges societal norms. In this episode, Jacob shares his odyssey from rural Pennsylvania to the world stage, driven by a passion ignited during a cross-country bike tour at the tender age of 20. His story is not just about the miles traveled but the transformation of his life's path, as he finds fulfillment and a new identity through this daring adventure.
Jacob's journey wasn't meticulously planned—quite the opposite. With minimal route mapping and a focus on spontaneous exploration, he embraced uncertainty, relying on robust gear and the support of a tracking device for peace of mind. Covering over 38,000 miles across six continents, Jacob reveals the logistics and challenges of traveling self-sufficiently, surviving on little more than food and water. It's a tale of resilience, an embrace of the unknown, and a testament to the power of living life on one's own terms.
From the dangers of the Andean mountains to the serene beauty of the Yucatan Peninsula, Jacob recounts the highs and lows of life on the road. He opens up about the emotional challenges of disconnecting from modern communication and the profound joy found in nature’s simplicity. The journey didn't just change his perspective; it led to a creative pivot—from engineering to founding Ant Life, an art company inspired by humble ant farms. Jacob invites listeners to experience the vastness of human potential and the world's beauty, offering inspiration to embark on their own journeys of discovery.
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Ever wondered how an introverted boy from Oklahoma City ended up as a star of the all-new Mickey Mouse Club? Join me as I sit down with Chase Hampton—a cherished figure from the '90s entertainment scene—to explore his remarkable journey to the stage. Through candid personal stories, Chase shares the serendipitous moments that shaped his path, from an unexpected meeting with Disney casting directors in a Dallas hotel to joining the iconic Mickey Mouse Club alongside future stars like Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears. His story is one of perseverance, highlighting how an introverted child found his voice and passion in the world of entertainment.
Chase takes us back to the vibrant '90s music scene, reminiscing about the transformative years with The Party and the influence of the Seattle sound, which reshaped his musical journey. He reflects on the intense, yet rewarding, days balancing school, rehearsals, and live performances, and how the Mickey Mouse Club provided a nurturing environment filled with camaraderie and healthy competition. Beyond the show, Chase discusses his transition to acting in popular TV shows and his fulfilling role as a mentor at Rock Nation, where he’s had the privilege of nurturing young talent, some of whom have gone on to grace major festival stages like Coachella.
As we reflect on his journey, Chase opens up about his personal life—his enduring love story with his wife and his current role as CEO of Always in the Club, a charitable initiative with his fellow Mickey Mouse Club alumni. His life is a testament to the unpredictable twists of a career in entertainment and the joys of giving back to future generations. Don't miss this heartfelt episode that captures the essence of celebrating the journey itself, featuring inspiring anecdotes and lessons that resonate beyond the world of music and television. Stay tuned for more adventures, including our next exciting guest, world traveler Jacob Lemanski, who promises tales of global exploration and adventure.
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What happens when a former Royal Air Force member swaps his parachute for a mountain bike and embarks on a breathtaking quest across Iceland? Meet Steven James Ferris, a man who has redefined his life with adventure, weaving tales from his military past into a riveting 72-hour bikepacking expedition to support a cause close to his heart. Steven transports us from the lush landscapes of his childhood in South Wales to the formidable terrains of Iceland, sharing how the transition from military life to civilian adventure seeker ignited a new flame of purpose and ambition.
Steven's story is not just about physical endurance but also the mental fortitude required to face unpredictable challenges, whether it's navigating Iceland's volcanic landscapes or balancing the joys and trials of fatherhood. He brings to life the essence of adventure as a means of personal growth and resilience, reflecting on how stepping beyond our comfort zones can lead to profound self-discovery. With anecdotes of cycling through Icelandic ash and silt, Stephen paints a vivid picture of the unpredictability of nature and the meticulous planning needed to survive such daring endeavors.
As Steven contemplates future journeys across Morocco and Azerbaijan, he offers insights into the 'stretch' zone—a space where growth flourishes, far from the comfort zone yet short of the panic zone. His narrative is a testament to the power of adventure as a tool for rejuvenation and connection with the environment. Join us as Steven James Ferris illuminates how embracing the great outdoors can transform lives, inspire others, and instill a renewed sense of belonging and purpose.
To learn more about Steven check out his website www.stevenjamesferris.com and follow him on YouTube @StevenJFerris to see his self-made documentary of his 3 day bike adventure across Iceland.
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Glen Van Peski shares his philosophy of ultralight backpacking, revealing how taking less can lead to a more fulfilling life. Through personal stories of adventure, gratitude, and survival, he encourages listeners to embrace minimalism and focus on meaningful experiences.
• Overview of Glen Van Peski's philosophy on ultralight backpacking
• Discussion of his iconic 4,200-mile bike journey at 17
• The impact of adventure on personal growth and resilience
• Importance of gratitude amidst life’s challenges
• Details about Glen’s harrowing plane crash experience
• Insights into his marriage and family life
• Glen’s venture into creating ultralight gear with Gossamer Gear
• Future adventure plans and the significance of living opportunistic
To learn about Glen and get his book visit www.glenvanpeski.com.
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147 - What drives someone to embark on an extraordinary journey with zero experience? Meet Charlie Reynolds, the audacious soul who swapped the comforts of a four-wheeled drive for the thrill of a motorcycle, blazing a trail from Canada to the ends of Argentina. Charlie’s story inspires with its tales of confronting the infamous Darien Gap and his improvisational canoe adventure across the Caribbean Sea. Reliving the moments when outdoor passions were ignited in Whistler, BC, Charlie reminds us of the transformative power of embracing the unknown.
Join us as we revel in the chaotic beauty of epic journeys with a fellow enthusiast who finds joy in unpredictability, whether navigating historical routes on a bicycle or surviving near misses on the Pan-American Highway. This episode celebrates the philosophy of biting off more than one can chew and savoring every moment of the adventure. From unexpected reunions in the daunting Darien Gap to the heartwarming generosity of the Guna people, we explore how stepping out of our comfort zones fosters profound human connections and personal growth.
The journey crescendos with unexpected cultural encounters on a matriarchal island and reflections on personal revelations during solitary adventures. Tune in to this exhilarating narrative, where every twist and turn offers insight and inspiration, encouraging us all to embrace the adventure life offers.
Be sure and give Charlie a follow on Instagram @bemorecharles.
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Welcome back to an exciting new episode where I have the pleasure of reconnecting with Colleen Avis, the visionary behind the "Sacred Spaces" series. Discover how a simple introduction through mutual acquaintances blossomed into a profound collaboration for "Sacred Spaces: Subtle Shifts for Mind, Body, and Home Transformation, Volume 3." Join us as we explore the nuances of creating sacred spaces and how small, intentional changes can spark significant personal growth. Expect to be moved by the wisdom and experiences of 25 diverse authors, including my own contribution in Chapter 8, all coming together to illuminate the path of transformation.
In a candid discussion, Colleen and I delve into the power of vulnerability in crafting these sacred spaces, both in life and in the pages of this collaborative book series. We celebrate the vibrant community of contributors who dared to share their personal stories, fostering a sense of connection and discovery among readers. With trust and open-mindedness as foundational elements, we explore how these diverse voices unite, showcasing the transformative potential of vulnerability and storytelling as tools for growth, healing, and empowerment.
As our conversation unfolds, we tackle the weight of negative self-talk and the liberating journey of letting go. With personal anecdotes and metaphors, such as the gripping experience of snowmobiling, we emphasize self-compassion and positivity. Uncover practical insights like morning affirmations to break free from self-criticism, and embrace self-discovery with trust and kindness. This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration, encouraging you to embrace your own transformative journey.
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Kelton Shelley shares his extraordinary journey from childhood leukemia to becoming a dedicated endurance athlete, highlighting the power of resilience and the importance of investing in oneself. His story inspires listeners to face challenges head-on and embrace their unique paths to success.
• Definition of 'deposit' in the context of personal growth
• Kelton's childhood in Utah and initial passion for sports
• Overcoming leukemia and the pivotal role of family support
• Transition to endurance sports and the significance of hard work
• The challenges and triumphs of participating in Spartan races
• Insights on dealing with pain and mental perseverance
• The balance between racing and playing drums in a metal band
• Setting future goals and embracing life's adventures
• The deeper meaning of adventure as a continuous journey
To follow along with Kelton give him a follow on Instagram @kshell36.
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This episode showcases Fiorella Iriberi's journey through the world of overlanding, emphasizing the lessons learned through failure and resilience. Fiorella shares insights on building a life on the road, the freedom it brings, and the importance of community, adventure, and self-discovery.
• Fiorella discusses her background and her early love for travel
• The couple transitioned from traditional living to a full-time overlanding lifestyle
• Building their shuttle bus was an act of creativity and growth
• Embracing failures as opportunities for learning and connection
• Life on the road presents unique challenges, including financial management
• Fiorella and Zach maintain balance in their relationship while living in close quarters
• The freedom and beauty of nature play a significant role in their happiness
• Future plans include completing the Pan-American Highway journey
If you want to follow along with her adventures, be sure to check her out on Instagram at @growingslowandwild.
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144 - Autumn Carolynn shares her captivating travel adventures and lessons learned from her book "Traveling in Wonder." The episode explores her journey to visit 30 countries before 30, insightful experiences as a flight attendant, and the emotional connections that make travel truly unforgettable.
• Autumn’s journey from the suburbs of Chicago to becoming a flight attendant
• Experience studying abroad in England and traveling throughout Europe
• The goal of visiting 30 countries before turning 30
• A humorous tale of unique travel experiences, including sleeping in casino bathrooms
• Autumn’s romantic encounter under the Eiffel Tower
• Insights into running a travel photography business and the challenges she faces
• Autumn's love for Norway and her deep connection to the country
• The significance of being present and enjoying travel experiences versus capturing them
• Looking ahead: Autumn’s plans for future travel and writing
To learn more about Autumn and to purchase her book please visit www.autumncarolynn.com and you can also give her a follow on Instagram @autumncarolynnphotography.
You can follow me on Instagram as well @journeywithjakepodcast or check out my website www.journeywithjake.net.
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Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
143 - Gary Arndt shares his transformative 13-year journey across more than 200 countries, providing insights into the essence of travel, the challenges of long-term exploration, and the impact of social media on the travel experience. The discussion emphasizes the importance of adventure, personal growth, and the dynamic nature of travel in an ever-evolving world.
• Gary’s early life and limited travel experiences
• Transition from a successful business career to full-time traveler
• Embracing the challenges and joys of long-term travel
• The significance of adventure and stepping outside comfort zones
• Reflection on the influence of social media on authentic travel experiences
• Creation of the Everything Everywhere podcast during the pandemic
• Importance of storytelling and historical context in travel narratives
• Future aspirations for travel and podcasting
To learn more about Gary give him a follow on Instagram @everythingeverwhere or check out his website www.everything-everywhere.com.
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Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Bert Terhart's incredible solo circumnavigation of the globe during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic reveals the power of adventure against all odds. His journey showcases resilience, the beauty of solitude, and the deep connections that emerge from embracing the unknown.
• Introduction to Bert Terhart and his remarkable journey
• Bert's eclectic background and passion for sailing
• The emotional complexities of adventure and relationships
• Overview of the circumnavigation route and challenges faced
• Insights on handling the unpredictability of the open sea
• The dichotomy of solitude vs. loneliness
• Key strategies for mental preparedness and safety
• Highlights of misadventures and learning experiences at sea
• Insights into Bert's future plans for adventure
• Reflection on the true meaning of adventure and personal growth
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141 - Bjorn Lestrud's journey from corporate life to holistic healing has been nothing short of transformative. He shares his experiences with the Light Portal Ceremony, microdosing mushrooms, and the profound effects of sound healing, all while emphasizing the value of personal exploration and growth.
• Bjorn discusses his struggles with anxiety and his background in corporate sales
• Transitioning from the corporate world to explore spiritual avenues
• The impact of microdosing mushrooms on his vision and social anxiety
• Experiences at the Light Portal Ceremony and personal revelations
• Insights into the healing potential of plant medicines and spirit guides
• Introduction to biofield tuning and sound healing as therapeutic modalities
• Bjorn's future aspirations and the importance of flow in life adventures
Be sure and follow Bjorn on Instagram @bluedragonhealing and you can find more information on his website www.bluedragonhealing.net.
You can follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
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Bonus 5 - Greg Bennick, a fascinating guest of this episode, has led a life as eclectic as it is inspiring. From his upbringing in a small Connecticut town with career renegade parents to his gritty move to Seattle where he immersed himself in the punk music scene, Greg’s journey underscores the beauty of living life on one's own terms. We explore his transition from aspiring rockstar to embracing roles in acting, music, and public speaking, along with his love for numismatics. His story is a testament to the power of pursuing passions and redefining success, promising listeners an engaging exploration of a life lived authentically.
In a riveting account, Greg shares a pivotal moment from his youth that taught him the importance of focus and presence. Using the metaphor of "keeping your eyes on the knife," he emphasizes the necessity of attention amidst life’s distractions. This concept is central to his book, "Reclaim the Moment: Seven Strategies to Build a Better Now," where he challenges the superficial allure of modern society. Inspired by Guy Debord's "Society of the Spectacle," Greg urges us to engage directly with life, encouraging listeners to seize opportunities and live beyond the superficial distractions that often cloud our experiences.
Finally, listeners are taken on a global journey featuring Greg's spoken word tour across Russia and Ukraine, which highlights the shared humanity that transcends cultural boundaries. Greg challenges fear-driven narratives as he shares lessons on kindness from his travels to places like South Africa, Rwanda, and Thailand. These adventures underscore his belief in the innate goodness of people and the essential role of kindness in our lives. This episode promises to entertain, educate, and inspire, unearthing the extraordinary stories and the philosophy that guides Greg’s life.
To learn more about Greg please visit his website www.gregbennick.com. You can also follow Greg on Instagram @gregbennick.
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Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
140 - Have you ever found adventure to be the key to overcoming life's toughest challenges? Meet Thomas McPherson, a man whose life is a testament to living boldly and embracing each moment. From his early days growing up in Missouri to his courageous service in the Navy as a fleet Marine force corpsman, Thomas shares his intriguing story with us. Discover how he transitioned from military life to finding success in the real estate industry during the economic storm of 2009 in Phoenix, Arizona. This episode provides a glimpse into Thomas's unique world, where adventure serves not just as a passion but as a path to healing and personal growth.
Thomas opens up about the psychological scars left by two traumatic incidents during his military service and his path to self-forgiveness. His candid reflections on these experiences provide insight into the challenges faced by veterans and the importance of seeking help. Through counseling and a commitment to spreading joy, Thomas has transformed his life, channeling his creativity and resilience into real estate with a focus on sustainability and community impact. Learn how his company, Lukrom, works to tackle housing affordability while prioritizing sustainable design, and how these efforts are reshaping the built environment for the better.
But Thomas's story doesn't stop there. Get ready to be thrilled as he shares his exhilarating experiences in base jumping, a sport that exemplifies living life on the edge. Thomas discusses the importance of preparation, mentorship, and safety in the extreme sport, revealing how these principles also apply to his professional and philanthropic endeavors. Hear about the Madre Tierra Foundation, which he and his wife founded to foster education and reforestation projects, reflecting their dedication to making a positive impact. This episode is packed with inspiration, adventure, and a reminder that life's greatest fulfillment often comes from helping others and embracing the unknown.
To learn more about Thomas and his business please visit www.lukrom.com.
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Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
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139 - Rhonda Parker Taylor's journey from small-town beginnings in Noblesville, Indiana, to becoming the author of the best-selling novel "Crossroads" is nothing short of inspiring. Rhonda reflects on her unique educational experiences and the challenges she faced growing up, which shaped her perspective and fueled her passion for storytelling. Her story is a testament to the power of living authentically and embracing each moment, whether you're in a mansion or a tent. Join us as we explore how these experiences influenced the creation of her gripping novel and the accompanying life workbook, which delves into the 13 dimensions of personal balance.
Listen in as Rhonda shares how her interactions with crime watch groups and personal encounters with the legal system in Indianapolis inspired "Crossroads." Discover the compelling tale of Paris Pennington, an executive whose life takes unexpected turns during jury duty, unraveling the complexities of the legal system. Rhonda opens up about the fears she overcame in publishing her work and the invaluable support she found in a hybrid publisher. Her journey culminated in a thrilling endorsement from Meryl Hemingway, which was both exhilarating and humbling, marking a significant milestone in her career.
This episode captures the highs and lows of the publishing world, as Rhonda candidly discusses embracing imperfections and the importance of persistence and self-validation. The celebration of her book launch, marked by a memorable event at Barnes & Noble, stands as a testament to her dedication and resilience. Through personal stories of adventure and resilience, Rhonda emphasizes the significance of acknowledging and managing emotions, using humor and self-awareness to navigate life's challenges. Her insights into work, travel, and cultural learning underscore the importance of living a fulfilling and authentic life.
To learn more about Rhonda and her book, Crossroads please visit her website www.rhondaparkertaylor.com. You can also follow her on Instagram @rhondaparkertaylor.
I would love it if you could follow me on Instagram as well @journeywithjakepodcast. I am also on YouTube @journeywithjakepodcast.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send Jake Bushman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
138 - Imagine a world where the timeless allure of the circus meets the nuanced journey of personal growth and recovery. This episode, we bring you the extraordinary life of Dave Letterfly, a man whose experiences range from training horses under the big top to penning books that inspire and heal. Raised in the Midwest, Dave's journey is a testament to creativity's transformative power. From tackling social anxiety and alcoholism with the help of a supportive circus community to becoming a sought-after artist and public speaker, his story is one of resilience and unstoppable momentum.
Let's take you behind the curtains of a circus ring, where Dave developed profound relationship skills alongside the horses and ponies he trained. These majestic animals taught him invaluable lessons in overcoming personal challenges, illustrating how art and animal companionship can lead to unexpected personal breakthroughs. You'll hear about the captivating Pony Liberty Act, a performance that symbolizes not just circus mastery but also the evolution of a man who found his voice and confidence in an unlikely place. Through this unique blend of artistry and animal interaction, Dave has built a reputation in the circus world—and beyond.
Lastly, Dave's journey from the shadows of alcoholism to the spotlight of motivational speaking and writing is nothing short of inspiring. With the support of Alcoholics Anonymous, he embarked on a recovery path that unlocked a newfound passion for writing and painting. From decorating Harley-Davidson motorcycles to crafting memoirs that touch the heart, Dave exemplifies living with intention and creativity. This conversation is a beacon for anyone feeling stuck, offering lessons in faith, purposeful action, and the courage to embrace life’s unpredictable yet rewarding adventures. Join us as we celebrate Dave Letterfly's vibrant tapestry of life experiences and the lessons abundantly woven through them.
Be sure and give Dave a follow and Instagram @daveletterfly and check out his website www.letterfly.com.
You can find me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and check out my website www.journeywithjake.net to sign up for my new forthcoming newsletter.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send Jake Bushman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Bonus 4 - What happens when life throws unexpected challenges your way, and you're forced to confront deep-seated family dynamics and personal growth? In this bonus episode of Journey with Jake, I sit down with returning guest Ashleigh Renard to explore her extraordinary journey over the past two years, marked by a transformative divorce and a courageous estrangement from her family. Ashley candidly shares how these experiences have shaped her upcoming book, "Split: A Memoir in Pieces," offering listeners poignant insights into resilience, authenticity, and self-discovery amidst life's unpredictable paths.
As we navigate through the complexities of Ashley’s new chapter, the conversation unveils the stark contrasts in personal priorities and perspectives, highlighted by her reflections on relationships. Through these revelations, we uncover the essence of how individual journeys impact our connections with others—much like a delayed flight amidst a storm, urging us to question the direction of our own paths.
Lastly, the episode probes into the nuances of family estrangement and the intricate dynamics within dysfunctional families. Ashley bravely discusses the societal pressures of being a "golden child" and the liberation found in distancing from toxic family roles. Her journey from perceived perfection to self-defined identity presents a compelling narrative on the importance of emotional clarity and independence. Join us for a conversation that promises to challenge your perspectives on family, growth, and the pursuit of authenticity.
Be sure and give Ashleigh on follow on Instagram @ashleighrenard and to get the presale of her new book SPLIT you can sign up here: https://ashleighrenard.myflodesk.com/splitwaitlist
I would love for you to follow me on Instagram as well @journeywithjakepodcast.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send Jake Bushman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
137 - Becky Lukovic's wanderlust journey takes center stage as she shares how a brisk April morning in the Bay of Naples transformed her life and career. From her roots in Arkansas to adventures across Uganda and Patagonia, Becky's narrative is a vibrant tapestry of cultural curiosity and natural wonder. We explore how she broke free from traditional roles, embracing the challenges of exploration and the joys of familial relationships, while eventually planting roots in Atlanta after years in Indiana.
As a travel industry professional, Becky offers a glimpse into the personalized world of travel planning. Discover how she navigates the complex landscape of modern travel with a fee-based model, providing peace of mind and tailored experiences for her clients. Her passion for helping others experience the awe-inspiring beauty of places like the Bay of Naples fuels this career choice, making each journey as rewarding for her as it is for her clients. We also touch on some of her most thrilling adventures, including gorilla trekking in Uganda and unexpected encounters in Antarctica, showcasing her love for impact-filled journeys.
Becky's dreams don't stop there—future expeditions to Cambodia, Egypt, and beyond lie on the horizon, alongside her growing travel club, Ciao Bella, which fosters a community of curious explorers in Atlanta. Whether you're an armchair traveler or a seasoned globetrotter, Becky's story is a testament to the transformative power of exploration and the boundless possibilities of a passion-driven career.
Be sure and give Becky a follow on Instagram @mybellatravel and check out more information on her website www.bellatravelplanning.com.
Give me a follow on Instagram as well @journeywithjakepodcast and you can catch my episodes on YouTube @journeywithjakepodcast.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send Jake Bushman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
136 - What happens when pageantry meets wanderlust? Join us for a captivating conversation with Kerry Damiano, known as Ms. World Traveler, as she shares her remarkable transformation from Miss Idaho 1983 to a globe-trotting fashion and travel aficionado. Kerry reveals how her pageant background uniquely influences her approach to travel blogging, combining elegance and adventure into her projects. Discover her intriguing Ms. World Traveler persona, a clever marketing twist that helps her stand out in the bustling world of travel content creation.
Ever tried deciphering a foreign menu with dietary restrictions? Kerry shares tales of travel mishaps and the unexpected adventures they bring, often turning into great stories. Whether you're a meticulous planner or a spontaneous wanderer, we explore the joys of balancing both approaches to enhance your travel experiences. Learn how Kerry embraces the unpredictability of travel while still finding structure, making every trip memorable.
Experience the empowerment of solo adventures as Kerry talks about living like a local in Paris, her love for Italy, and her thrilling solo travels. She opens up about the confidence gained from exploring the world alone, especially for women, and the freedom it offers. Kerry's rich travel experiences offer insights and inspiration for anyone looking to step out of their comfort zone and embrace a life full of stories and joy.
Be sure and follow Kerry's adventures in travel and shopping by visiting her YouTube channel @ Ms. World Traveler. You can also follow along with Kerry on Instagram @kerrymsworldtraveler.
Be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and check me out on YouTube as well @ Journey with Jake Podcast.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send Jake Bushman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
135 - What if you could transform your life with just a few small resets? Join us as we sit down with the adventurous and inspiring Ingo Schulmeyer, who recounts his incredible journey from a successful career in the semiconductor industry to a life of exploration and fulfillment in Veracruz, Mexico. Ingo, an endurance athlete and life coach, shares how his passion for adventure developed during his youth and how it continues to shape his approach to life. Discover how stepping away from the conventional path opens doors to a life aligned with personal values and aspirations, and learn how courageously pursuing what makes you happy is the ultimate form of success.
Ingo challenges the misconception that change is riskier than stagnation by narrating the leap of faith he took to embrace a new life in Mexico with his family. We'll explore the breathtaking landscapes of Veracruz and the enriching impact of shared experiences on family bonds. From adjusting to a new culture and language to strengthening familial connections, Ingo's story is a testament to the power of risk-taking and the beauty found in the unknown. His experiences in endurance sports, like Ironman competitions, underscore the courage needed to overcome physical and mental barriers, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life journey.
Our conversation with Ingo also dives into the world of transformational coaching, highlighting its role in personal growth and development. Ingo's transition to life coaching is driven by his commitment to helping others redefine success and break free from limiting beliefs. He shares his insights on cultivating presence and mindfulness, offering practical techniques to stay grounded amidst life's challenges. As Ingo opens up about his family's experiences and his journey from semiconductors to coaching, his story becomes an inspiring blueprint for anyone yearning to embrace change and find joy in life's journey.
Be sure and check out Ingo's podcast on YouTube, The Small Reset.
Give me a follow on social media on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and on YouTube @journeywithjakepodcast.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send Jake Bushman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
134 - After years of managing a bustling family life with eight children, Kitty Robinson discovered the Appalachian Trail's transformative power. Her story unfolds as she balances motherhood, yoga teaching, and studying marriage and family therapy while embracing the trail's challenges. Join us as Kitty recounts her adventures and shares how nature, faith, and family support have become her pillars of resilience and personal growth.
Unearth the profound impact of spirituality and community as Kitty opens up about her journey through life's hurdles. This episode highlights how a supportive spouse and shared outdoor experiences can bring joy and healing, even during difficult times. Listen to touching tales of overcoming fears and finding peace, including heartwarming stories of Kitty's family navigating mental health challenges with the aid of nature's healing embrace.
Experience the camaraderie of a group of women who, fueled by friendship and laughter, transform from hesitant hikers to seasoned adventurers on the Appalachian Trail. Through humorous anecdotes and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, we explore the unpredictable beauty of the wilderness and the empowerment found in overcoming obstacles together. As the trails lead to deeper connections and cherished memories, Kitty's journey reminds us of the joy found in both the challenges and triumphs along the way.
Be sure and check out Kitty's book "The Runaway Housewives of the Appalachian Trail" on Amazon. You can also learn more about Kitty by following her on Instagram @thewellnesswaycollab and check out her website www.thewellnesswaycollab.com.
Thanks for coming along for another journey and adventure. I would love to hear from you. Message me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast or send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
133 - From passionate adventurer to social media influencer, Luke Bosworth shares a journey that defies convention and embraces the unknown. Our conversation starts with Luke's roots in Orlando, Florida, where his adventurous spirit was nurtured by an inspiring father. That eagerness for exploration led him to an unexpected opportunity with the Sailing Zatara YouTube family, which, in turn, set the stage for a life lived out of a Toyota Tacoma, filled with thrilling moments and new friendships.
Luke offers a vivid narrative of his first sailing adventure in the Mediterranean, a transformative experience that ignited his love for travel and storytelling. From the sheer joy of dolphin sightings to the challenges of life onboard, Luke's tales underscore the beauty of stepping outside one's comfort zone. His story also takes a poignant look at the balance between living in the moment and capturing it for YouTube, illustrating the delicate dance of life as a digital nomad.
In a world obsessed with the destination, Luke reminds us that the journey is where the true adventure lies. His candid reflections on maintaining long-distance relationships and the strength he finds in overcoming loneliness are powerful testaments to the human spirit. As we wrap up, listeners are invited to follow Luke's ongoing adventures on social media. Follow Luke on Instagram @lukebosworth_ and on YouTube @lukebosworth_.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send Jake Bushman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
132 - Award-winning hairstylist and beauty influencer Danielle Keasling invites you on her exhilarating journey of beauty, travel, and wellness. Growing up in Minneapolis with a family connected to Northwest Airlines, Danielle developed a wanderlust early on, which eventually shaped her adventurous career path. She shares how the universe guided her from aspiring marine biologist to a celebrated hairstylist working with elite brands, all while making people feel their best. Her story is a testament to the power of following one's passion and trusting the process of life.
Discover how Danielle transitioned from salon owner to global educator, seizing opportunities that led her to a role with L'Oreal and beyond. Her willingness to embrace the unknown opened doors to new ventures such as a beverage company and a coaching business. She highlights the significance of saying "yes" to interesting opportunities, sparking her passion project, Another Million Miles, which aims to cement her name in beauty, health, and wellness. Danielle's journey underscores how flexibility and creativity can create a fulfilling life, even when managing multiple projects.
Danielle shares her transformative experience with the 75 Hard program and other wellness practices like yoga, cold plunging, and peptide therapy. These disciplines have helped her manage anxiety and maintain balance amidst a busy professional life. From snowboarding in Park City to adventures in South Africa and Italy, her love for travel is undeniable. Explore her contributions to a yoga wellness drink advisory board, her passion for helping others, and her lifestyle blogging through Another Million Miles. Let Danielle's narrative of growth and learning inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and embrace life's challenges with open arms.
You can learn more about Danielle by visiting her website www.anothermillionmiles.com and check her out on Instagram @danielle.keasling and @anothermillionmiles.
Be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast or check out all my episodes on my website www.journeywithjake.net.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send Jake Bushman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
131 - Join me as I embark on an exhilarating conversation with Jude Kriwald, an adventurous spirit whose bicycle has taken him from the bustling streets of London to the mysterious jungles of Liberia. Jude's tales are more than just stories of travel; they are lessons in resilience, cultural exchange, and the kindness of strangers. He shares how his youthful escapes from boarding school led to transformative journeys across Europe, Asia, and West Africa, including capturing his solo exploits in the film "Alone Across Gola." From enduring the harsh winters of Tajikistan to navigating the unpredictable landscapes of West Africa, Jude's adventures reveal the unfiltered reality of cycling through diverse terrains and cultural landscapes.
Jude's stories are filled with moments of tension and triumph, from navigating the dense canopy of Liberia with a guide to the unexpected hospitality found in the most remote corners of the world. He provides a glimpse into life in West African villages, shedding light on the warmth and wit of the locals amidst political instability and economic challenges. Jude's reflections on the cultural perceptions he encountered paint a vivid picture of the complexities of being a foreign traveler, a theme that resonates in today's interconnected world. His experiences with wildlife and local customs offer listeners a fresh perspective on regions often overshadowed by preconceived notions.
Jude's passion extends beyond his personal journeys, as he shares his commitment to making adventure accessible to all through the Adventure Mentor program. His initiative focuses on breaking down barriers for individuals from diverse backgrounds, empowering them to embark on their own journeys of discovery. As Jude discusses his future plans, including a hiking adventure in New Zealand and a potential record-breaking cycling endeavor, listeners will be inspired by his dedication to exploration and growth. This episode is a testament to the power of adventure to transform lives, and it promises to ignite a sense of curiosity and courage in all who listen.
Be sure and give Jude a follow on Instagram @judekriwald and check out his videos on YouTube @judekriwald. You can also learn more about his desire to help others with their own adventures by checking out his website www.adventurementor.org.
To learn more about me and my guests be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and check out my website www.journeywithjake.net.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send Jake Bushman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Bonus - Achieving the extraordinary often starts with a simple conversation, and today, we celebrate Veterans Day with a truly inspiring one. My friend and running coach, Ryan Head, joins us to share his incredible achievement of completing two daunting 100-mile races—the Wasatch 100 and the Bear 100—just three weeks apart. Ryan's story is a testament to the power of determination, faith, and the unyielding support of a friendship that has been tested on the toughest trails.
Ever wondered what it takes to conquer an ultra-marathon? Ryan and I unpack the meticulous planning and unwavering focus needed to tackle these grueling races. Learn from Ryan’s experiences on how to set ambitious goals, the nuances of training with a coach like Carl Meltzer, and navigating the unpredictable lottery system of elite races. We also discuss the mental fortitude required to overcome the extreme heat and treacherous climbs, drawing parallels between the resilience of the human spirit and the supportive community that makes achieving the unimaginable possible.
Ryan's journey extends beyond physical endurance, delving into themes of faith and personal growth. Embracing unforeseen challenges with a positive mindset, Ryan recounts the pivotal moments when his crew's unwavering support carried him forward. Their camaraderie, coupled with the stunning trails of Bear Canyon, paints a vivid picture of the triumphs and beauty inherent in ultra-running. As we reflect on Ryan's awe-inspiring achievements, we also set the stage for our next episode featuring adventurer Jude Krewald’s epic biking journey across West Africa. Tune in, be inspired, and remember that it's not just about crossing the finish line, but cherishing every step of the journey.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
130 - What if you could navigate the world of collegiate athletics without being tied to a university? Join us as we chat with Sara Diener, an incredible "unattached athlete," who competes at the NCAA level independently. Discover her inspiring journey from Draper, Utah, through her recent graduation from Utah Valley University with a marketing degree, and her adventurous plan to explore Europe for 90 days, immersing herself in diverse cultures and cuisines. Sarah's story highlights the power of perseverance and the joy found in pursuing one's passion amidst life's challenges.
From personal tales of running a challenging 5K on Pioneer Day to overcoming undiagnosed anemia and a rare foot injury, our own running experiences offer a candid look at the struggles and triumphs in the world of athletics. We dive into the supportive community of high school cross country, the pressures of balancing college athletics and academics, and the transformative impact of taking a break to embark on a church mission. These experiences taught the importance of resilience, nutrition, and finding environments that support both personal growth and athletic development.
Explore the theme of self-discovery as we discuss the highs and lows of racing unattached and embracing a more inclusive running community. Hear how unattached athletes, despite lacking resources, find camaraderie and support in running clubs, turning challenges into rewarding experiences. Tune in for a blend of personal growth, adventure, and the thrilling possibility of blending passions with professional aspirations.
Be sure and give Sara a follow on Instagram @theunattachedathlete and while you are on Instagram make sure and give me a follow @journeywithjakepodcast.
Want to be a guest on Journey with Jake? Send Jake Bushman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/journeywithjake
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
129 - What inspires a combat arms officer to trade the grit of the battlefield for the serenity of the skies? Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey of Kaity McKee, affectionately known as Pilot Kaity, whose passion for aviation was ignited by her father's legacy as a retired Air Force pilot. From her upbringing in Georgia to her current status as a beacon of inspiration on social media, Kaity opens up about the challenges and triumphs of her path to becoming a pilot. Her story is a testament to the power of familial support and unwavering determination, offering listeners a captivating look into the world of aviation.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the diverse career paths within the aviation industry, as Kaity shares her experiences as a flight instructor, private charter pilot, and air ambulance service pilot. Discover how strategic financial planning and a proactive approach can lead to a successful and fulfilling career in the skies. Kaity discusses the unique opportunities and challenges faced by aspiring pilots, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal aspirations with professional goals. Whether it's navigating the rugged terrains of Idaho or balancing the demands of corporate aviation, Kaity's journey teaches us the beauty of persistence and the joy of flying.
Stepping beyond the cockpit, Kaity shares her foray into social media during the pandemic, where she became a mentor and resource for aspiring pilots. With platforms on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, she offers guidance, shares flight experiences, and even brings a light-hearted touch with her love for chickens. Join us for an episode that celebrates the adventure of aviation and the power of community support.
Be sure and follow Kaity McKee on Instagram @pilotkaity and on YouTube @pilotkaity. You can follow the show on Instagram as well @journeywithjakepodcast and on YouTube @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
128 - What if you traded your traditional lifestyle for a life on the road? Join us as Michele DeVries, a seasoned overland traveler, unveils her journey from settling into an unconventional lifestyle to thriving in it. Originally sparked by discomfort, Michele's transition into full-time nomadism has blossomed into a life filled with personal growth and inspiring perspectives. At 43, Michele finds herself reveling in the unexpected joys and challenges that living in a camper truck and RV brings, demonstrating that the road less traveled can lead to profound self-discovery.
Meet a couple who turned their conventional lives upside down by swapping homeownership for a truck camper, igniting a lifestyle of freedom and exploration. Before van life became a trend, this adventurous pair was navigating the beauty of the United States while maintaining their successful photography business. A serendipitous trip to Ireland prompted a pivotal shift, inspiring them to redefine what it means to truly live life on their terms. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of stepping outside comfort zones and embracing a journey filled with new horizons.
Michele and her husband, Mark, continue to share the realities of life on the move, from managing resources to finding community among fellow travelers. They've upgraded to an RV for more comfort and space, which has allowed them to balance work and life more efficiently, especially on their winter trips to the breathtaking Baja landscapes. Their commitment to slow, intentional travel not only enriches their experiences but also inspires others to consider the possibilities of a life that prioritizes connection with nature and authentic storytelling. Tune in as we explore these captivating stories of adventure, resilience, and the enriching path of overland travel.
To learn more about Michele and her travels visit www.twohappycampers.com or check out her Instagram account @twohappycampers___.
Please follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast or check me out on YouTube @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
127 - What happens when you leave your 9-5 job behind and embark on an eight-month journey across 17 countries? Join us as we chat with Peter Cordova, affectionately known as Petey, who did just that. Growing up in the heavily polluted mining town of La Oroya, Peru, Petey transitioned to a career in IT sales in Denver, Colorado, and found his true passion in videography and travel. In this episode, Petey recounts his remarkable sabbatical, sharing vivid stories from scuba diving in Honduras to hiking the trails of Patagonia, and summiting Kilimanjaro. His experiences are not just about the destinations but about the life-changing connections and the challenges faced along the way.
Petey’s journey isn’t just any travel tale; it’s a testament to the transformative power of cultural immersion. Hear how he navigated the bustling streets of Varanasi, bonded with strangers-turned-friends in hostels, and used apps like Couchsurfing to truly engage with local cultures. Inspired by Anthony Bourdain, Petey discovered that firsthand experiences vastly outweigh media portrayals, finding common ground with people from diverse backgrounds. Each encounter provided a new perspective, from the spiritual aura of the Ganga River to the serene landscapes of Switzerland, reshaping his views on global unity.
But it wasn't all smooth sailing. Listen as Petey recounts the unexpected hurdles—including a frantic hunt for a yellow fever vaccine in Lisbon and accidentally joining the wrong tour group at Kilimanjaro. Despite these challenges, each twist added a unique chapter to his adventure, culminating in a moving ascent to Kilimanjaro’s summit with newfound friends. This episode promises exhilarating stories, reflections on overcoming personal limits, and a peek into Petey's future aspirations, including a potential trek to Everest base camp and a quest to visit all seven world wonders. Join us for an inspiring conversation that might just ignite your own wanderlust.
Be sure and give Petey a follow on Instagram @peter.junior_ and on YouTube @peter.junior_.
I also invite you to follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Bonus - Get ready to unlock the joy of reading and the wonders of American history with Valerie and Eric Woebkenberg, our inspiring mother-son duo. Valerie, a passionate former first-grade teacher from Cincinnati, teams up with her roller-coaster-loving son, Eric, to create the magical "Miles Across America" children's book series. This episode promises to take you on an exciting journey with a curious cat named Miles Standish who explores historical sites across the United States. If you're looking to inspire young readers with tales that entertain and educate, then this conversation is your ticket to discovering how to make history come alive for children.
The Woebkenbergs are on a mission to encourage kids to embrace physical books amidst the rise of digital formats. Their approach is simple yet profound: blending storytelling with authentic historical experiences. From the Mayflower's decks to the Wright Brothers first flight, Valerie and Eric's meticulous visits to real locations infuse their stories with authenticity. They share how they tackle the challenges of weaving historical content with captivating narratives, inviting young minds to appreciate history beyond mere memorization of dates and events.
As we explore the creative process behind the "Miles" series, Valerie and Eric reveal their secrets to engaging young readers, including the use of "sneak peek readers" to refine their stories. They discuss the thrill and challenges of family collaboration, with contributions from Valerie's other son, Michael, adding depth to their storytelling. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or history enthusiast, tune in to discover how the Woebkenbergs transform educational content into captivating adventures that spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of explorers.
To learn more you can visit Valerie's website https://valeriewoebkenberg.com/ or check out Instagram @miles_across_america.
Thanks for tuning into this bonus episode of Journey with Jake. The normal Thursday episodes will continue later this week. Be sure and check me out on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
123 - Beth Atencio didn't always love the outdoors, but a dark period in her life and a therapist's advice led her to find healing in nature. Her story of transformation from simple walks to epic hikes around Lake Tahoe is a testament to the power of stepping out of one's comfort zone. Discover how she took a leap during the COVID-19 pandemic by purchasing and converting a van, opening the door to the joys of life on the road.
Join us as Beth shares the heartfelt support she received from her family and friends, including her parents who even embarked on their own travel adventures inspired by her courage. You'll hear about the initial skepticism from her children and how they eventually came to appreciate the happiness this new lifestyle brings her. Beth offers practical insights into solo van life, underscoring the importance of flexibility and the thrill of taking risks to follow one's passions.
From the serene aquamarine waters of Diablo Lake to the awe-inspiring wildlife encounters in the Grand Tetons, Beth's adventures are nothing short of extraordinary. Balancing full-time work and a burgeoning passion for travel, she decided to embrace a more nomadic lifestyle supported by a close-knit work community. Don't miss her inspiring plans, including van expos, travels to Arkansas and Tennessee, and a highly-anticipated bucket-list trip to Canada and Alaska. Follow her ongoing journey on Instagram at @mid.lifeadventurer and on YouTube @mid.lifeadventurer.
Be sure and leave me a rating and review on Apple Podcast or wherever you listen to your podcasts and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
125 - What if the path to fulfillment lies in choosing the most adventurous route? In this episode of Journey with Jake, we unravel the incredible life of Dan Mathews, better known as the Nomadic Outdoorsman. Inspired by a friend's advice to always seek adventure, Dan and his family left their conventional jobs behind to embrace a life of travel and exploration in an RV. From launching a successful RV renovation business to Samantha's courageous journey as a surrogate for two couples, their story is a testament to bold decisions and living life on one's own terms.
We also tackle the controversial topic of trophy hunting, a subject often shrouded in misunderstanding. Dan shares his deep respect for the animals he hunts, offering a fresh perspective on hunting ethics. Through gripping stories from Wisconsin's rifle season, we explore the chaotic excitement and respect that true hunters have for wildlife. Dan sheds light on the importance of these traditions, and how they foster connections with nature and family.
Finally, we delve into the multifaceted world of hunting adventures and the bonds they build. From frog gigging in Missouri to the anticipation of moose hunting in Alaska, Dan's tales are filled with camaraderie and the thrill of the hunt. The episode also highlights the role of faith in guiding life's choices, especially amidst public scrutiny. Tune in to experience an enriching conversation with Dan Mathews, as we explore both the extraordinary adventures and the everyday decisions that define his family's unique journey.
Be sure and listen to Dan's podcast The Nomadic Outdoorsman. You can also follow Dan on Instagram @thenomadicoutdoorsman and follow Dan and his wife Samantha @wearedanandsam.
To get a closer look at all my guests and get to know me a little better follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
124 - What if overcoming immense personal and natural adversities could propel you to achieve your wildest athletic dreams? Discover the incredible story of triathlete Josh Vernon as he recounts his inspiring journey from the chaos of hurricanes Irma and Maria to finding sobriety, reclaiming his life, and reigniting his passion for sports. Growing up in Menden, Massachusetts, Josh’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, determination, and the pivotal role of supportive relationships.
Josh’s path has been anything but smooth, as he faced severe financial hardship, homelessness, and the challenges of regaining custody of his daughter amidst natural disasters. Through his narrative, Josh reveals how he managed to rebuild his life in Massachusetts, find love with Janine, and reclaim his fitness through triathlons. Learn about the significant milestones in his journey, from training during the COVID-19 pandemic to his first sprint triathlon and his ongoing quest to conquer an Ironman. His story is a vivid reminder of the power of persistence and the importance of finding healthy coping mechanisms.
Balancing the demands of Ironman training with family life and personal goals, Josh delves into the complexities of maintaining equilibrium. He shares insights on the supportive triathlon community, the financial commitments involved, and the profound impact of a disciplined approach to recovery and fitness. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and mutual support, urging us all to remember that the journey is as important as the destination. Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Josh Vernon, whose story will leave you inspired and motivated.
Be sure and give Josh a follow on Instagram @joshmvernon and check out his project Do Wicked Good www.dowickedgood.com.
You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and check out my website www.journeywithjake.net.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
123 - Experience the exhilarating life of Chris Cameron, a first responder pilot and wildlife guide with an insatiable thirst for adventure. Hear how Chris's unique upbringing in South Florida, balancing summers on cattle ranches and life on the Atlantic coast, shaped his path from playing college football at Mississippi State University to becoming an expert in both flying and guiding wildlife tours. Chris shares the captivating story of his first alligator dive at the age of 11, a moment that ignited his passion for marine life and set the stage for his multifaceted career.
Join us as Chris recounts the adrenaline-pumping experiences of daring rescue missions and close encounters with apex predators like sharks and alligators. He details how swimming with these majestic creatures has taught him to stay grounded and present, and how these early interactions led to the creation of his specialized guide business. Chris also opens up about the unique challenges he faces as a first responder, balancing a demanding schedule from police work to helicopter piloting, and the importance of a strong support system in navigating the emotional toll of the job.
Get ready for awe-inspiring tales from dramatic locations like Guadalupe Island and Tiger Beach, where Chris describes the breathtaking sight of great white and tiger sharks in their natural habitats. Discover the rigorous daily routines necessary for maintaining proficiency as a pilot, the unpredictable nature of search and rescue operations in Florida, and the therapeutic aspects of being immersed in raw nature. Chris's stories of overcoming life's obstacles, building trust with clients, and the honest, predictable nature of sharks offer a fresh and inspiring perspective on adventure and resilience.
Be sure and give Chris a follow @chriscameron.cc and @coastalcowboyofficial. You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
122 - From riding a rickshaw across Pakistan to navigating the treacherous routes of the Sahara on an iron ore train, Will Meara's adventures are nothing short of epic. This episode features the adrenaline-pumping stories of Will, an event organizer and adventure travel expert from Dublin, Ireland, whose passion for exploring unconventional destinations has led him to some of the world's most overlooked and misunderstood places. Hear firsthand accounts of his unique travels and how he balances his professional life as the chief commercial officer of an entertainment enterprise with his insatiable wanderlust.
In a deeply moving segment, we explore Will's transformative journey from a childhood marked by fears and anxieties, driven by his late mother's memory, to an adulthood filled with bold exploration. Discover how he overcame the constraints of a cautious upbringing, inspired by his mother's strength and resilience, to travel extensively across over 110 countries. His experiences in socially and politically charged environments, such as refugee camps and war zones, provide profound insights into the realities that exist beyond mainstream media portrayals.
We also uncover the fascinating and often misrepresented cultures of the Middle East, sharing Will's personal anecdotes of the surprising hospitality and rich traditions in countries like Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. From practicing the art of taruf in Iran to experiencing the genuine warmth of locals in Pakistan and the contrasts in cultural norms, this episode is a treasure trove of cultural insights. Join us as we explore the essence of traveling off the beaten path and the resilience built through stepping out of one's comfort zone, shedding light on the universal kindness that transcends borders and stereotypes.
Be sure and follow Will on Instagram @willmeara.loco and check out his group tours on his website www.readyforroad.com.
You can find me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast or check out my Youtube channel @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
121 - Jennie Milton's story is a thrilling ride through the world of extreme sports, from her vibrant upbringing in her parents' sports store to becoming a pioneer in kite surfing and snow kiting. Jennie's early exposure to activities like windsurfing, sailing, and skiing laid the foundation for her adventurous spirit and resilience. Her journey is a testament to how embracing adventure can shape a positive outlook on life, even when faced with personal health challenges.
Listen as Jennie, also known as Adrenajen, shares her seamless transition from working in her parents' ski store to opening her own shop, Adrenaline Sports, catering to the growing demand for extreme sports gear. She recounts her first exhilarating encounter with kitesurfing in Hawaii, the trials of learning the sport, and an unforgettable heli-skiing adventure in Alaska with guide Steve. Jennie's narrative is a thrilling testament to breaking barriers in male-dominated sports and pushing the limits of what's possible.
From mastering the delicate balance of finesse and strength in kiteboarding to navigating the extreme conditions of snow kiting, Jennie's experiences are both exhilarating and inspiring. Hear about her heart-pounding polar bear encounter in Arctic Village and her journey of resilience after a serious health diagnosis. Jennie's story is a powerful reminder of the joy and empowerment that come from pushing beyond our comfort zones and cherishing the small moments of happiness, no matter the circumstances. Join us for an incredible conversation that will inspire you to embrace your own daring pursuits and find joy in life's adventures.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Bonus - What drives a man to exchange the picturesque mountains of Pennsylvania for the sun-soaked coastlines of Florida? Join us on this special Labor Day bonus episode of Journey with Jake, where we chat with Bob Gonzalez, the passionate author of "Flicker in the Water." Bob takes us on a nostalgic trip through his early fishing days, recounting the excitement of catching his first ocean fish at the tender age of 11 in New Jersey. Blending his love for the outdoors with his loyalty to the Tampa Bay Rays, Bob draws insightful parallels between the hurdles of sports fandom and the broader challenges life throws our way.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Discover how Bob unearthed his writing talent in his mid-fifties and the obstacles he faces in promoting his literary endeavors. Hear the thrilling tale of his first buck hunt in the frosty landscapes of Pennsylvania and garner valuable tips for novice ocean anglers. This episode is a treasure trove of personal stories and practical advice, guaranteed to ignite the passions of aspiring writers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Don't miss this captivating conversation that sheds light on the inspirations behind Bob’s journey and his adventurous spirit.
Be sure and check out more from Bob and purchase his book, A Flicker in the Water, by visiting his webpage www.flickerinthewater.com or by going to Amazon.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
120 - How does one find solace in the wilderness after facing the darkest of times? Mike Martin joins us to share his extraordinary journey from homelessness and depression to becoming a beacon of mindfulness and spiritual connection with nature. Mike's story is not just about overcoming adversity; it's about rediscovering the healing power of the outdoors through wilderness meditation. Tune in to hear how the principles of stoicism he gleaned from a podcast played a pivotal role in his transformation and how nature became his sanctuary and guide.
Our conversation with Mike explores the profound practice of wilderness meditation, blending walking and sitting techniques with focused breathing and grounding. Mike highlights the resilience and self-worth that come from mastering outdoor skills like fire and shelter building. He also recounts his meditative experiences in the Ohio Valley and Kentucky, where ancient mounds became sites of personal healing. Whether you're an outdoor novice or someone grappling with social anxiety, Mike's wisdom and tailored wilderness adventures offer a path to mindfulness and personal growth. Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, practical insights, and the transformative power of nature.
To learn more about Mike and his program check out his website www.projectmindfullyoutdoors.co or follow him on Instagram @projectmindfullyoutdoors_pc.
Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and feel free to send me a note to say hi by email jake@journeywithjake.net.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
119 - Ever wondered how epic adventures can reshape your outlook on life? Join me as I sat down with Matt O'Neill, the inspiring host of the Good Mood Revolution podcast. Matt opens up about his remarkable journey from Michigan to Colorado and finally to the beach, sharing how setting goals for extraordinary adventures can break the routine and enrich our lives. He reveals the secret to maintaining a good mood and discovering happiness from within—a lesson that struck a deep chord with me during my own struggles with mood.
Inspired by the wisdom of Brandon Turner and Jim Shields, we explore the transformative power of one-on-one trips with our children. Turner, who once helmed the famed Bigger Pockets podcast, shares his cherished tradition of annual getaways with each of his kids, a practice Matt embraced with his four children. These special trips have created unforgettable memories and strengthened their bonds over the past five years, from apple-picking in Iowa to thrilling Disney escapades and vibrant shopping sprees in Miami.
Our episode rounds off with a glimpse into an upcoming family backpacking adventure, the spiritual solace found in nature, and the practices of daily meditation and gratitude. Discover how these elements contribute to personal growth and empowerment through choice and creativity. We also touch on breaking generational cycles of shame and the profound influence the outdoors can have on our well-being. Tune in for an episode brimming with practical tips, heartwarming stories, and profound insights into the pursuit of happiness, family connection, and self-discovery.
Be sure and check out Matt's podcast "The Good Mood Revolution" and pre-order his book "The Good Mood Revolution" on Amazon. You can find a link to the book here. You can also give Matt a follow on Instagram @goodmoodmatt.
Be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and leave me a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
118 - What would compel someone to leave the security of home for the uncertainty of the road? Adventurer Nicolai Dotter joins us to share the origin story of his daring spirit and the motivations behind Operation Brazil, his bold motorcycle expedition from California to Brazil. Influenced by his father's enthralling travel tales and an unconventional education in the Redwood Forest, Nicolai's passion for exploration has taken him across continents, from Europe and Asia to survivalist camping in Hawaii. In this episode, Nicolai opens up about how his adventures have shaped his resilience and provided tools to tackle life's challenges head-on.
Imagine the rush of navigating Mexico's wild terrains or the joy of cultural immersion as you pick up a new language. Nicolai's transformative trip to Vietnam ignited his love for motorcycling, setting the stage for this epic year-long journey through Latin America. As he nears 30, Nicolai shares the thrill of stepping out of his comfort zone, embracing the hostel lifestyle, and redefining what it means to truly experience a place. His stories from the road challenge preconceived notions and highlight the power of adventure to enrich our lives in surprising ways.
From the sun-drenched landscapes of Baja California to the vibrant cultures of Guatemala, Nicolai's travels are filled with eye-opening moments and unexpected challenges. Hear about the nail-biting incident in Oaxaca, the warm hospitality in Sinaloa, and the financial wisdom of living as a digital nomad. Whether it's motorcycle mishaps or learning to navigate without a phone, Nicolai’s journey is a masterclass in adaptability and the joys of slow travel. With plans to continue through Central and South America, Nicolai’s tale is a riveting testament to living life on your own terms.
Be sure and follow Nicolai on his operation to Brazil on Instagram @neeekolaiii. Be sure and follow the show @journeywithjakepodcast and reach out and say hi.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
117 - What happens when a seasoned adventurer shifts his focus to improving parent-preteen relationships? Meet Marcus Higgs, our extraordinary guest who brings a wealth of multicultural wisdom and global teaching experience to the table. Raised by a father from the Bahamas and a mother from the Philippines, Marcus has lived and taught in South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and Spain. His insightful stories about his spiritual journey and dedication to enhancing mental health and communication within families are not to be missed.
Ever wondered how to better support your preteens as they navigate the rocky road from dependence to independence? Marcus and I break down the developmental stages of preteens, the importance of sincere prayer life, and how community engagement can foster a sense of belonging. We'll share practical advice on managing emotions and building trust, emphasizing the role of effective communication in understanding preteens, especially in today’s era of social media and diverse perspectives. His experiences as an educator across various countries add an extra layer of depth, helping listeners grasp the universal principles at play in parenting and education.
Through the lens of the hero's journey, Marcus illustrates the transformative power of storytelling and personal interaction in overcoming stereotypes and cultural misunderstandings. We discuss an eye-opening exercise he conducted with students in Saudi Arabia and how it reveals the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones. Join us for an episode brimming with wisdom, adventure, and practical tools to foster stronger, healthier parent-preteen relationships.
To learn more about Marcus Higgs visit his website www.marcushiggs.com and check out his Instagram account @heartofmarcus. You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithajakepodcast. I would love to hear from you. Reach out and say hi either through direct message on Instagram or send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
116 - David Allen Tracy, a personal brand coach and intrepid adventurer, shares his extraordinary journey that spans continents and life-changing experiences. From his childhood exploring the rainforests of Panama to his nonprofit work providing medical aid in remote and dangerous areas, David's story is one of courage, resilience, and profound humanitarian effort. His collaboration with Panama's Air Force Navy and experiences in Haiti reveal the deep impact of humanitarian work, offering both logistical insights and heartwarming success stories that resonate deeply.
David's life took another dramatic turn with his battle against cancer, which infused his life with a renewed sense of purpose and an urgency to make every day count. He opens up about how surviving cancer changed his perspective on life, creativity, and the importance of contributing to the world. In a particularly touching segment, David recounts fostering Esther and the emotional journey of her return to her birth mother, showcasing the transformative power of love and support in personal development.
In the realm of personal branding, David emphasizes the importance of authenticity and uniqueness. With strategies drawn from his experiences in both nonprofit and business sectors, David discusses the transition from technical marketing to personal brand coaching, and the role of consumer psychology and personal styling. He introduces theta healing, a powerful method for overcoming mindset barriers, helping clients present themselves confidently and genuinely. Don't miss the insightful discussion on empowering transformations, where David likens his coaching journey to guiding caterpillars into butterflies, highlighting the rewarding nature of helping clients achieve their full potential.
To learn more about David and what he does as brand coach please visit his website www.davidallentracy.com. As listeners of the show David is offering access to his Brand Masters Collective subscription which features weekly virtual workshops, a virtual resource center, networking opportunities and more. Just visit www.davidallentracy.com/brand-masters-collective and use the code: bemyguest2024 to get access.
Thank you to listening to Journey with Jake each and every week. Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast to get to know me and my guests better.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
115 - What if life's unexpected twists could lead you to newfound passions and a brighter future? Join me as I sit down with Briana Medvecki, a former elite gymnast who turned a career-ending ACL injury into an inspiring journey of resilience and self-discovery. Hear how she transitioned from the intense world of gymnastics to collegiate diving at Cal Poly University, embracing changes that reshaped her self-perception and confidence. Briana’s story is a powerful reminder that how we feel about ourselves far outweighs how we look.
From flipping on a mat at two and a half years old to diving off a platform, Briana's athletic career is a tale of perseverance. Despite injuries and relocations across California, she remained steadfast in pursuing her dreams, whether it was acro and tumbling, pole vaulting, or finally finding her footing in diving. She reflects on her journey from a Division II athlete at Azusa Pacific University to competing at a Division I level at Cal Poly, highlighting how adaptability and passion can drive success in both sports and professional endeavors.
Briana's journey is also a candid exploration of personal challenges and triumphs, from battling body image issues and an eating disorder to the exhilarating highs of spontaneous adventures like skydiving. Through therapy, social media, and a supportive community, she has rebuilt her life around healthy habits and self-care. Tune in to uncover the realities of collegiate diving, the emotional and physical toll of athletic injuries, and the importance of feeling strong and balanced over merely looking fit. Briana's story is sure to inspire anyone grappling with self-doubt or seeking to embrace life’s unexpected changes with confidence and strength.
Be sure and give Briana a follow on Instagram @bri_vecki. I also encourage you to follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and get a glimpse into my guests and my personality.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
114 - Can scuba diving be the ultimate stress-reliever for a high-pressure office job? Meet Giulia Uggias, a tax advisor from Hamburg who has discovered an extraordinary escape in the underwater world of scuba diving. With a rich multicultural heritage, being half Italian and half Russian, and fluency in multiple languages, Giulia’s story is more than just about diving; it's about embracing life’s depths and finding tranquility amidst chaos.
In our conversation, Giulia takes us through her exhilarating journey from recreational diving in the Carribbean Sea to the more demanding realms of technical diving. Listen as she recounts her first cave diving experience in Sardinia and her mesmerizing encounters with underwater cave systems in Budapest. Giulia also shares the meditative clarity and unique sensations of weightlessness while diving, comparing it to a serene, almost yoga like state. We discuss the rigorous certification processes and her dreams of exploring world-renowned dive spots like Tulum, Mexico.
Giulia’s passion for diving extends beyond personal fulfillment; it's also about making a positive environmental impact. Discover how she has been actively involved in conservation projects, planting sea grass and removing underwater debris in the Baltic Sea and Hamburg fjords. Through these efforts, she has gained confidence, a calm approach to life's challenges, and a platform to overcome personal insecurities. Follow Julia’s adventures on Instagram @scuba_giulietta and stay connected with us @journeywithjakepodcast for more inspiring stories. Don't miss our next episode, where we chat with Brianna Medvecky about her transition from gymnastics to the high dive at Cal Poly University!
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
113 - Ever wondered how a DC lobbyist specializing in defense and technology transitions into a fantasy fiction author? Join me for an extraordinary conversation with Joe Hilliard, also known as J.V. Hilliard, as he reveals how his real-life experiences in politics, diplomacy, and war have enriched his epic fantasy narratives. From the foothills of Pittsburgh to the creative freedom unlocked during the COVID-19 lockdown, Joe shares his journey and the influences that shaped his passion for fantasy worlds, including the inspiration drawn from his paralyzed uncle and lifelong love for Dungeons & Dragons.
Joe delves into the meticulous process of crafting epic fantasy worlds and characters, emphasizing the importance of world-building and planning the story's ending first. He offers insights on preventing writer’s block through detailed outlines, ensuring cohesive storytelling across multiple books. Learn about Joe's transition from writing a standalone novel to creating a full-blown fantasy series, guided by professional editors and a professor’s support. Discover how this initial endeavor blossomed into an expansive career, complete with video games and graphic novels inspired by his series.
Embrace the entrepreneurial spirit as Joe discusses his ventures, from owning magazines to adapting his book series into augmented and virtual reality video games. Hear about the challenges and excitement of translating his stories into various nonlinear mediums, and the creative process of envisioning his books as movies. Joe also shares the significance of building an author’s brand and audience, treating his writing career as a startup business. Tune in for a captivating episode filled with adventure, risk-taking, and the art of storytelling, perfect for anyone fascinated by the intersection of real-world experience and fantasy fiction.
To learn more about Joe and his books check out www.jvhilliard.com or on Instagram @jvhilliardbooks. If you are interested in getting one of his books you can find them here at Dragon Moon Press.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
112 - Can financial constraints truly hinder your wanderlust? Join us as we chat with Linda King, the Smart Travelista, who proves that travel and savings can go hand-in-hand. Linda, originally from Sydney and now based in Melbourne, shares her unique blend of travel expertise and financial savvy. Her early experiences, including a life-changing four-month road trip across Australia, ignited her passion for exploration. Linda's story shows that adventure is possible for everyone, regardless of budget.
Experience the thrill of adventure through Linda's eyes as she recounts her childhood travel tales and the impact of those journeys on her personal growth. From traveling with her family across Australia to an unforgettable solo journey to Miami during a hurricane, Linda opens up about the resilience and readiness required for such adventures. Her reflections on shared travel experiences and their transformative power will resonate with every travel lover out there.
Discover the essence of solo travel and the joy of helping others from someone who's mastered both. Linda discusses the freedom and self-reliance that come with exploring alone, sharing details from a particularly memorable trip to Miami. She emphasizes the importance of thorough research and preparation, especially when faced with unexpected challenges like hurricanes. Wrapping up, Linda's thrilling tales of surviving a hurricane, an engine failure on a flight, and a brief detainment in China underscore the unpredictable nature of travel and the incredible stories it creates. Tune in to get inspired for your next budget-friendly adventure!
You can learn more about Linda by visiting her website www.thesmarttravelista.com and checking her out on Instagram @thesmarttravelista.
As always be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and say hi.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
111 - Curious what it’s like to trade the hustle and bustle of city life for crystal-clear waters and remote island adventures? Imagine living on a catamaran while exploring the untouched beauty of French Polynesia and the Bahamas. Michael and Cassandre from Journey of MC join me to share their incredible stories and the life-changing impact of their off-the-beaten-path travels.
From serendipitous meetings in Chicago and globe-trotting escapades, Michael and Cassandre recount their journey filled with unexpected challenges and memorable moments. Listen as they describe their time navigating the pristine Exuma islands, the thrilling hunts for hidden tiki statues, and the cultural encounters in the San Blas Islands. Their tales of resilience and flexibility offer a treasure trove of insights for aspiring travelers balancing work and wanderlust.
Discover the magic of Bora Bora's glowing waters and the serene Valley of Hakeui on Nucahiva as Michael and Cassandre paint vivid pictures of their favorite destinations. Their humorous anecdotes, like navigating shoulder-high grass in search of a tiki statue, highlight the unpredictability and joy of exploration. Dive into their world and get inspired to plan your very own adventure, no matter how unconventional it might be.
Be sure and follow Michael and Cassandre on Instagram @journeyofmc. You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and get to know me and my guests just a little better.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
110 - What happens when a family decides to pause their conventional lives and embark on a year-long global adventure? Margaret Sullivan joins the podcast to share the captivating story of her family's extraordinary decision to take a gap year and explore the world with their young children. From corporate marketing in Lower Manhattan to fishing for piranhas in the Amazon, Margaret’s journey is filled with memorable moments that promise to inspire and entertain. Discover how this transformative trip reshaped their family dynamics and left them with a treasure trove of stories and lessons.
Balancing a career and family life in bustling New York City, Margaret and her husband decided to take a leap of faith. The challenges of planning and executing a year of constant travel with small children were daunting, but the rewards were immense. Margaret shares the highs and lows of their travels, including the everyday logistics and the unexpected joys of being together as a family 24/7. From hilarious misadventures to heartwarming connections, Margaret’s storytelling will have you laughing and reflecting on the nature of family and the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone.
Join us as we explore the profound growth and newfound perspectives gained from navigating different cultures and languages. Margaret's anecdotes, like the unforgettable experience of trick-or-treating in Tasmania, reveal how they embraced their vulnerabilities and celebrated their children’s resilience. The journey not only strengthened their family bonds but also led them to reassess their life priorities. Listen in for practical tips, heartfelt stories, and a sneak peek into Margaret’s book, "Following the Sun: Tales (and Fails) from a Year Around the World with Our Kids," capturing the essence of their life-changing adventure.
You can find Margaret's book on Amazon here. I would also encourage you to check out her website www.margaretbensfieldsullivan.com and Instagram page @sullivanfamilyadventure for more information about her book and travels as a family.
Be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and reach out and say hi!
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
109 - Kirsten Rudberg’s journey across the Camino de Santiago offers more than just tales of physical endurance; it’s a deep dive into the realms of solitude, personal growth, and the magic of unexpected generosity. Join us as Kirsten, a panentheist with a Master’s of Divinity from Iliff School of Theology, shares her transformative pilgrimage experience, shedding light on the profound lessons learned along the ancient path. Her stories reveal how embracing the unknown and facing fears head-on can lead to remarkable inner growth and a renewed faith in humanity.
But Kirsten's journey isn’t confined to the Camino. Growing up overseas with a father who built hydroelectric dams in developing countries, Kirsten developed a unique worldview that fuels her creative endeavors today. Whether she's podcasting, screenwriting, or crafting the animated series "Murder of Two," Kirsten’s diverse background and the challenges she faced adjusting to life back in the States have deeply influenced her work. She unpacks these experiences with humor and grace, offering listeners a fresh perspective on resilience and creativity.
This episode also delves into Kirsten's reflections on overcoming childhood adversities, including her parents' divorce and the cultural dissonance of returning to the U.S. These experiences have shaped her understanding of adventure as not only extraordinary journeys but also daily encounters that push us beyond our comfort zones. From navigating the Spanish coast’s challenging terrain to starting her own podcast, Kirsten's story is a testament to the power of stepping into the unknown, meeting new people, and finding joy in solitude. Tune in to be inspired by her insights on personal growth, creative expression, and the interconnectedness of all beings.
You can find out more from Kirsten by visiting her website www.bytesizedblessings.com or checking her out on Instagram @bytesizedblessingspod.
Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and reach out and say hi. I would love to hear from you. If you have anyone you think I should have on the show or you would like to be on the show please email the show jake@journeywithjake.net and tell me why.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
108 - What drives someone to leave behind the chaos of their home city and embark on a global adventure? Chris Donaldson, an intrepid 65-year-old motorcyclist from Belfast, Northern Ireland, shares his incredible journey of riding a Moto Guzzi Le Mans around the world. From the conflict-ridden streets of Belfast to navigating the deserts of Sudan, Chris's story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the enriching power of unplanned detours. Tune in as we explore his decision to choose South Africa over Australia due to geopolitical turmoil, and how these unexpected changes crafted an adventure full of life lessons.
The thrill of riding a motorcycle has roots in Chris's early years, where the simple joy of pedaling a bicycle evolved into a passion for motorized bikes. We delve into his teenage years spent repairing a scrap Bantam, contrasting the mechanical simplicity of older bikes with today's digital complexity. Reflecting on life in Belfast during the 70s and 80s, Chris reveals how growing up amidst violence pushed him towards a life of global exploration, highlighting the broader impact of his upbringing on his outlook and adventures.
This episode takes you through Chris's reflections on aging and adventure, emphasizing that life’s challenges—whether navigating the Sahara or dealing with economic downturns—can lead to profound growth. Chris talks about the importance of self-reliance and resilience and how these traits have shaped his journey. We also discuss his book "Going the Wrong Way" and his ongoing adventures, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your dreams. Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with tales of travel, family, and the undying spirit of adventure.
To learn more about Chris or order his book check out his website www.chrisdonaldson.world and check him out on Instagram @goingthewrongway_book.
I would love to hear from you. Send me an email jake@journeywithjake.net or reach out to me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
107 - Embark on a photographic odyssey as I sat down with the remarkable Amber, whose lens has turned elopements into visual sonnets against Earth's most awe-inspiring canvases. Once a travel agent, Amber's trajectory to becoming an elopement photographer is a vibrant narrative of love, adventure, and the chance encounters that can shape our destinies. As she recounts her journey, your heart will travel through the quiet grandeur of Santorini's cliffs and the tranquil shores of Bora Bora, places where vows are whispered and forever is sealed in a frame.
In this intimate conversation, the allure of an elopement for the introspective adventurer becomes clear, and Amber's eye for immortalizing these moments elevates each story to a masterpiece of memory. She imparts wisdom for those drawn to the serenity of such intimate unions, painting a picture of the profound connections and experiences that come alive through her photography. And for anyone captivated by the idea of an elopement or just a fan of captivating love stories set against nature's majesty, Amber's Instagram account, @zephyretluna, stands as a gateway to the world through her perspective—a world where every snapshot beckons you to live your own adventure.
Please check out Amber's work by visiting her website www.zephyr-et-luna.com and her Instagram page @zephyretluna.
To get to know me and my guests better please follow me on Instagram @journeywithajakepodcast. Please send me a note and say hi. I would love to hear from you.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
106 - Embrace the pulse of perseverance and youthful ambition through the experiences of Kambrie Wilkinson, a trail-blazing runner ready to conquer the peaks of Utah and the tracks of collegiate competition. My conversation with Kambrie isn't just about her swift strides on the racecourse; it's a heart-to-heart on how a mother's nudge led her from a dabbling multi-sport athlete to a committed runner whose story is as inspiring as the mountain trails she loves. Together, we unwrap the nuances of what it means to grow with a sport—discovering the joys and shaping influences running offers against the rugged backdrop of Utah's landscape.
Every runner knows the stomach's flutter before the starting signal, but not every runner learns to harness it as Kambrie has. Our dialogue traverses the inner battles and team alliances that stitch the fabric of distance running. Beyond strategies like visualization, we reveal the cultural tapestry and lingo that differentiate the raw, natural allure of cross country from the calculated rhythm of track events. Kambrie's tale is a reminder of the beauty found in the shared grit and the unexpected friendships forged at the finish line.
As Kambrie stands on the cusp of her college journey at Utah Tech University, she shares the proactive steps and heartfelt decisions in the college recruitment dance—a testimony to her drive and determination. She's not just running towards an athletic career; she envisions a future rich with education, coaching, and adventures that span the globe. So whether you're a seasoned runner or a newcomer curiously eyeing those laced-up shoes, Kambrie's chronicle, illuminated on Instagram @runnerkam, invites you to explore the pathways where ambition meets passion. Join us for an episode that's not just about the race, but about the enduring spirit that carries us through life's marathons.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
105 - Embarking on a journey of health and hope can be as daunting as it is illuminating, and Elwin Robinson's story is a testament to the transformative power of wellness. Born to an international family, Elwin faced early health challenges that set him on an explorative quest for understanding. I have the privilege of delving into Elwin's remarkable transformation and his profound insights into living a hopeful and fulfilling life, despite once being ensnared by minimum wage realities and a negative mindset.
Every struggle carries the seed of opportunity, and this episode is rife with stories of overcoming and finding purpose. Witness how Elwin's significant health shift propelled him into a deep personal introspection, catapulting him from merely surviving to resolutely thriving. His candid recollections of family complexities and his own battle with trauma underscore the resilience of the human spirit.
Concluding our discussion, we unravel the often-overlooked influence of genetics on health and behavior. Elwin shares a surprising personal discovery about lead poisoning, highlighting the critical interplay between environmental factors and our genetic predispositions. The threads of health, partnership, and the pursuit of significance are intricately woven throughout this episode, inviting you to reflect on your own tapestry of life.
To learn more about Elwin and his work with health and genetics you can check out www.geneticinsights.co or chech him out on Youtube.
Check out my Instagram page @journeywithjakepodcast and check out my website www.journeywithjake.net.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
104 - When the balance beam of life meets the vault of ambition, where do you land? Lundyn VanderToolen, a high school senior on the cusp of collegiate gymnastics, joins me to untangle this convergence. We kick off our chat with Lundyn’s evolution from a five-year-old with a beam in her eyes to a seasoned gymnast with dreams bigger than a perfect 10. The heart of her story is rooted in family support, as she recounts the influence of her sisters and the strength she draws from her Utah upbringing.
Navigating the rigorous twists and flips of an athlete's life, Lundyn walks us through her emotional decision to transition from elite gymnastics to a path that realigns with her joy and well-being. It's a poignant reminder that sometimes stepping off the podium can lead to a more fulfilling journey. We tuck into the complexities of balancing the weight of expectations with personal aspirations, and Lundyn's candid reflection on parental support sheds light on the universal struggle to find one's own footing.
By the time Lundyn maps out her recruitment journey to Utah State University, we're all on the edge of our seats, eager to vault into her future. The chapter on faith, gymnastics, and gratitude serves as a floor routine for the soul, where Lundyn demonstrates the grace of navigating decisions with trust and the importance of cherishing team bonds. Her story is not just one of athletic prowess, but an ode to resilience, growth, and the camaraderie that forges the heart of a gymnast. Join us for an episode that vaults beyond the gymnastics mat and lands squarely in the realm of life lessons and leaps of faith.
You can follow Lundyn on Instagram @lundynv2024.
You can follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
103 - When Scott Gurian, a journalist with a knack for embedding himself in the marrow of the world's less-trod paths, tells the story of the Mongol Rally, you can't help but lean in closer. I had the pleasure of peeling back the layers of Scott’s 11,000-mile trek in a vehicle that's barely more at home on the vast steppes than a fish on a bicycle. His voice brings the landscapes alive, from the UK to the heart of Mongolia, regaling us with the kind of cultural exchanges that turn travelers into storytellers and storytellers into the sort of friends who make the global seem local.
As Scott and I chatted he found himself reflecting on his own transformation from an adventure-averse high schooler to a globe-trotting journalist. The discussion meandered through the backstories that shape a journey, like reporting on Mexico's Zapatista movement and the brotherly bond forged over 18,000 miles of open road. Scott's stories aren't just pins on a map; they're reminders that the world is wide, and the roads we choose can change us, challenge us, and charge us with tales worth telling.
Our conversation took unexpected turns, as all great journeys do, touching on Scott's personal quests—from seeking a healing stone in Peru to the introspective throes of an ayahuasca ceremony. He shares his ongoing aspirations and the cultural connections that continue to beckon him across continents. And for those of you with itching feet, Scott's insights are a siren call to embrace the spontaneous, the serendipitous, and the frankly astonishing warmth and hospitality that can be found in the unlikeliest of places. So, wherever you are, buckle up and let's hit the road with a true maestro of the map, Scott Gurian.
You can find more about Scott and his podcast Far From Home by visiting www.farfromhomepodcast.org or checking out his Instagram @farfromhomepodcast.
Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast. I would love to connect with you.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
102 - Imagine the ground beneath your feet giving way, plunging you into darkness. That's how Dan McQueen's world changed when a brain hemorrhage in 2014 left him grappling for the basic threads of life. Join me as I sit down with Dan in an episode that promises to grip your heart with a story of indomitable courage. Together, we navigate the jagged path of Dan's recovery, where every step, word, and smile became a milestone in his extraordinary journey. His approach to turning rehabilitation into a game shows us the profound power of positivity in the face of pain.
Skiing down Grouse Mountain might seem like an everyday activity for some, but for Dan McQueen, it was a summit of triumph, a pinnacle that marked his return to life's passions after a grueling decade-long hiatus. This episode is not just about the celebration of physical milestones; it's a deeper revelation of how setting audacious goals can ignite the human spirit. Dan's emotional reunion with the nurse who saw him at his most vulnerable, now witnessing his victorious descent, punctuates our conversation with a raw, powerful testament to the resilience within us all.
Ending on a note that resonates beyond the personal, Dan's transition into motivational speaking magnifies the impact of his narrative. It's a message that echoes through hospitals and into the halls of the Canadian Bureau of Speakers—championing the idea that the lens through which we view our world often holds the key to transforming it. As we wrap up our time together, Dan reminds us that his story, as remarkable as it is, serves as a mirror reflecting the untapped potential that lies dormant within each of us, waiting for the spark of inspiration to ignite.
Be sure and check out Dan by visiting his website www.macqueendan.com. You can also check him out on Instagram @macqueendan. While you are at it if you have not done so please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
101 - Embark with me on a narrative voyage where Carol Springer, the vibrant voice behind the 'Where Next' podcast, captures our imagination with tales of her ever-changing journey through life's seasons. From the snowy frontiers of Minnesota to the sun-kissed peaks of Colorado, we traverse her personal atlas, unpacking the dreams that unfold as the nest starts to empty. Carol's spirit is as infectious as her stories are inspiring, painting a vivid picture of anticipation for her son's potential baseball stardom and her own future exploits.
Turning the pages of our life's book, we find ourselves leafing through the chapters that have crafted our hunger for exploration and the experiences that beckon us beyond our comfort zones. Carol shares her mosaic of adventures, from the thrill of blackwater rafting down under to the reflective charm of local Colorado getaways, mapping out how our zest for life adapts with each act. Carol and I muse over the delicate interplay of raising families while nurturing the wanderlust that whispers sweet promises of exotic locales like Hawaii and Thailand, proving that the spirit of adventure knows no age.
As the conversation weaves through the dynamics of work, travel, and the magnetic pull of family, Carol's insights offer a tantalizing glimpse into the life of a business owner with itchy feet and a heart rooted in home. Whether it's embracing the cultural tapestry of a nearby Buddhist temple or mulling over the practicalities of a future in bustling cities, her experiences are a compass guiding us toward our own travel aspirations. Together, we celebrate the notion that every ending is simply the prelude to another grand journey, inviting listeners to consider where life's next chapter might take them.
You can follow Carol and Where Next Podcast on Instagram @wherenextpodcast.
Be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
100 - When you hit a hundred of anything, it's worth throwing a party, and that's exactly what we're doing here on Journey with Jake as we ring in our 100th episode! Join your host Jake (thats me) and my effervescent guest host Rick Bamford, as we stride down memory lane, reliving the belly laughs, the slip-ups, and the heart-tugging stories that have painted the vibrant canvas of this podcast. It's a chance to bask in the shared human experience with stories that span from the quaint streets of Pinedale, Wyoming to the awe-inspiring peaks of Banff and Jasper National Parks.
Our celebration wouldn't be complete without revisiting that spark of wanderlust that keeps our hearts yearning for the next adventure. So, we've reconnected with some of my past guests including Cole Young, Dave Preston, Matt and Cheryls Schoss from Were in the Rockies, Daniela from @monorailmagic_, and Shelby Mann from Ground Up Adventures.
It's not just about where we've been; it's about the people who've journeyed with us. This centenary episode is drenched in gratitude for our listeners, the guests who've brought their stories to our stage, and the serendipitous connections that have blossomed into invaluable friendships. Our tapestry is rich and far from finished. So, whether you're tuning in from Germany, Australia, or anywhere in between, know that your companionship fuels this show. Here's to the next hundred episodes—each step, each story, each shared moment engrained in the soul of Journey with Jake.
To follow along with these past guests see their Instagram and website information below.
Matt and Cheryl Schoss - Instagram @wereintherockies website www.wereintherockies.com and YouTube @WereintheRockies
Cole Young - Instagram @the_cole_young
Dave Preston - Instagram @davidpre.me
Daniela - Instagram @monorailmagic_ and YouTube @monorailmagic_
Shelby Mann - Instaram @groundupadventures website www.groundupadventuresco.com and YouTube @groundupadventures
Rick Bamford - Instagram @lord_rickster
And as always give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
099 - Embark on a transformative journey with me as I sit down with Colleen Avis, a masterful storyteller and coach who intertwines the sacredness of spaces with personal growth. Her book "Sacred Spaces," reflects the profound impact our environments have on our well-being, and through our discussion, we discover how vulnerability can be a powerful tool for connection and inspiration. Sharing our own stories, we illuminate the path from fear to joy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the spaces around us as mirrors of our inner world.
Venture into the heart of personal stories with the collaborative book project "Sacred Spaces Subtle Shifts for Mind, Body, and Home Transformation." Each narrative within this collection offers not only a tale of resilience but also practical tools for empowerment. Colleen opens up about overcoming personal adversity, learning from her mother's unwavering spirit in the face of financial hardship. These intimate revelations foster a sense of community, underscoring the belief that our shared experiences can become a wellspring of collective healing.
In this episode, we explore the nuanced yet powerful influence of small mindset shifts, capable of leading to profound life changes. Colleen and I discuss strategies for fostering positivity, such as embracing life's little victories and cultivating curiosity about the world around us. The episode also delves into personal transformation, showcasing the evolution of identity and the power of writing as a tool to engage with our deepest emotions. Join us as we take you through an inspiring session filled with insights on self-discovery, personal growth, and the significance of crafting spaces that resonate with your truest self.
To get Colleen's wellness kit at no charge please visit her website here. If you would like connect with Colleen you can reach out to her here and make an appointment. If you would like to order her book, Sacred Spaces, you can find that by clicking here.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
098 - Imagine facing a life-altering illness, fighting for every breath, and being haunted by the possibility of never waking up from sleep. This was the reality for Ben Lawson, a fitness enthusiast whose world was upended by a leukemia diagnosis. Through his story, we traverse the uncertain terrains of health and resilience. Ben candidly recounts his intense battle, from the fear that gripped him during sleepless nights to the physical challenges that tested his resolve. His journey offers a raw look at the human spirit's capacity to endure and ultimately triumph in the face of adversity.
As we grapple with the emotional weight of Ben's experience, we're taken to the depths of his struggle during the peak of a global pandemic. The added isolation of COVID-19 protocols meant facing chemotherapy and life-threatening complications with limited support. Hear how the simple error of a hospital form caused Ben to reevaluate his decision about life-saving measures, revealing the complexities of navigating a health crisis amidst unprecedented times. His reflection on this ordeal is not just a personal narrative but a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.
While Ben's tale is one of survival, it's also about reinvention. Post-recovery, he discusses the profound loneliness that accompanied his journey back to health, the societal expectations placed on men to mask their vulnerabilities, and the determination to rebuild his life and business. Celebrating his recent marriage and professional achievements, Ben's story is not solely a testament to personal fortitude but an inspiration to those facing their own battles. Join us as we uncover the strength within adversity and the incredible journey of a man who refused to be reduced to a statistic.
Be sure and check out Ben on Instagram @lawlessfitness and see first hand his journey. Be sure and follow me on Instagram @journeywithakepodcast and get a closer look at my guests and yours truly.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
097 - As my voice soldiers on through the remnants of a cold, I sit down with adventurer and author Edward Olu, the spirited soul behind the children's book "Around the World in Eight Dives: Scuba Diving All Seven Continents." Our conversation travels from the depths of Edward's Nigerian origins to his life today in Southern California, capturing the ethos of resilience and human spirit. He's not just a man who's conquered underwater realms on every continent; he's also a storyteller whose life lessons and pursuit of fear's edge have reshaped his worldview, inspiring all to seek out their next chapter of discovery, be it global or in the comfort of your neighborhood.
Adventure, Edward argues, isn't reserved for the adrenaline junkies alone - it's woven into the fabric of our everyday encounters, from the skateboarding trials of his kids to the novel tastes at a local farmer's market. This episode peels back the layers of what it means to live adventurously, encouraging us to embrace the unknown and the joy it can bring into our lives. As Edward shares his tales of diving into icy waters and the preparations that come with extreme cold water diving, it's clear that the richness of life is not found at the surface, but often in the depths where we challenge ourselves the most.
Looking to the horizon, Edward envisions his future dives as selective masterpieces, as we talk about his eagerness to dive into the world of freediving and share the magic of the oceans with his children. Our riveting exchange underlines the importance of choice in our quests and the serenity that comes from a balanced approach to the thrill of adventure. With the 100th episode on the horizon, Edward's eloquence and passion for life remind us all that it's the journey that defines us, not just the snapshots of our destinations. Join us for this extraordinary episode, where the spirit of exploration knows no bounds.
Be sure and follow Edward Olu on Instagram @ed.olu. You can also give me a follow on Instagram as well to learn more about my guests and who I am. Check it out @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
096 - As the sun kissed the Arizona desert where Annalise Castillo's love for the natural world was nurtured, we embark on an exploration of her adventurous spirit and dedication to self-care. Annalise, a yogi with an insatiable appetite for adventure, shares with us her transformative journey from the dusty trails of Tucson to the serene beaches of the Marshall Islands. Her stories of wild dingoes and escapades paint a vivid picture of a life woven with the threads of exploration, laughter, and an enduring bond with the great outdoors.
Strap in for a road trip down the east coast of Australia that promises nothing short of exhilaration. Annalise takes us from Cairns to Melbourne, revealing the highs and lows that come with the territory of spontaneous travel. From camping under starlit skies to close encounters with the country's iconic wildlife, her narrative is a hearty reminder of the freedom found in the embrace of the unknown and the joy of chasing the horizon. Alongside her, we learn that the most unexpected detours often lead to the richest experiences.
Finally, Ananalise opens up about the deeply personal realm of self-discovery through the lens of yoga and wellness. Her candid recollections of overcoming self-doubt and her transformative path to becoming a yoga instructor are lessons in the art of self-love and growth. She extends an invitation to awaken within, as she details the exhilaration of planning her first yoga retreat in Micronesia, a journey that promises to be as much about the inner voyage as the outer. Join us for an episode that is a celebration of life's meandering paths and the revelations they hold.
To learn more about Annalise please follow her on Instagram @annalisemarie_wellness. You can follow my adventures and learn more about my guests by following me @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
095 - Every battle leaves its scars, some visible, others hidden deep within the mind. Join me as I sit down with Vincent Proulx, a beacon of hope for anyone facing the dark aftermath of service. Vincent's raw and honest retelling of his struggle with PTSD and suicidal thoughts isn't just a tale of adversity; it's a narrative that reaffirms the immense courage it takes to reach out for help. His transition from the Canadian Navy and Army to law enforcement paints a picture of a man no stranger to life's frontlines, both literal and metaphorical. Vincent's journey is a stark reminder that the hardest battles are often fought within and that seeking help is not only brave but essential.
Harnessing the therapeutic power of the great outdoors, Vincent shares how mountain biking and daily affirmations have become more than just hobbies; they've transformed into vital lifelines anchoring him to a state of positivity and healing. Our conversation illuminates the pivotal role of nature in mental health recovery and the impact of Vincent's vulnerability on social media. By openly chronicling his affirmation practices online, he's cultivated a community that mirrors his resilience and growth. His story is an uplifting testament to the strength found in solidarity and the indomitable spirit that thrives when we choose to face our demons head-on.
As Vincent gears up for a life on the road with his partner, Valerie, embracing van life and the adventures it promises, he continues to inspire. His commitment to living each day with purpose and joy is a heartening example for those who may find themselves in the throes of their own personal battles. We also take a moment to honor his late dog, Chase, whose unwavering companionship was a guiding light through Vincent's darkest times. Embark on this journey of triumph over trauma and discover how one man's resolve to find happiness is lighting the way for others.
Be sure and follow Vincent on Instagram @vincent.adventures_ . You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and get to know me and my guests.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
094 - Have you ever stood at the precipice of change, teetering on the edge of transformation but unsure how to leap? Alex R Wagner, filmmaker and marathon runner, joins us to recount his exhilarating plunge from darkness into the light of self-discovery and relentless determination. Through the twists and turns of his life's narrative, Alex illuminates the path from a youth in Illinois to his inspiring achievements in the bustling streets of New York and the vibrant film scene of Chicago.
This episode is a celebration of personal odysseys and the sheer power of storytelling, both in life and on the silver screen. Alex shares the intimate details of his struggles with weight loss, the mental fortitude required for marathon training, and the joyous triumphs of running - each stride and scene a testament to his transformation. As we traverse his journey, we uncover the deep connections between the endurance needed to direct a film and the resilience to cross a marathon finish line, offering a fresh perspective on the universal quest for growth and self-improvement.
To cap off our conversation, we extend an open invitation for you to join in the celebration of Alex's journey and to draw parallels with your own life's challenges and victories. Whether you're a creative soul searching for kindred spirits or an aspiring athlete hungry for that next adrenaline rush, this episode is a mosaic of heartfelt experiences designed to inspire and ignite your passion for pushing boundaries. Lace up your running shoes, load your camera, and prepare to be part of the narrative that champions the richness of life's journey as much as its destinations.
Be sure and follow Alex on Instagram @alexrwagner and to learn more about me give me a follow @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
093 - The echoes of tragedy often linger long after the event has passed, but my guests Laura Hall and Sarah Bush have discovered a powerful form of healing that propels them forward—literally. In the wake of the Columbine High School shooting, these sisters found themselves grappling with the weight of trauma and its silent aftermath. Together, we take an intimate look at their emotional journey, discussing how running became their shared lifeline, a rhythmic therapy for body and soul. Their story is a testament to resilience and the unspoken strength that can be found in the steadfast companionship of siblings.
As we lace up and hit the pavement, Laura and Sarah reveal how their love for running transcended the confines of high school cross country, blossoming into a passion for marathons and the wild freedom of trail running. The sisters take us through the streets of the world's most iconic cities, past the finish lines of the Boston and New York Marathons, and onto the rugged paths of the Orcas Island 50k. Their narrative isn't just about endurance—it's about the transformative power of shared adventures and the unique bond that forms when you push your limits side by side.
I close the episode with a heartfelt appreciation for Laura and Sarah, who have generously peeled back the layers of their lives as runners, mothers, and sisters, sharing both their struggles and triumphs. If you're curious about the intersection of athleticism and personal growth, or if you simply crave a story of human spirit conquering adversity, join us. Their running shoes have traversed more than just miles; they've charted a path of profound healing and joy—a journey that continues with every sunrise and every step.
Be sure and give Sarah and Laura a follow on Instagram. You can find Sarah @sarah_j_runs and Laura @the.donut.runner. If you have not done so please follow me on Instagram as well @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
092 - When Christie Sausa laced up her skates at the age of eight, little did she know the ice would carve out a path leading her to the heart of Lake Placid, where Olympic dreams shimmer and the spirit of winter sports thrives. Journey with us as Christie, a figure skating and speed skating dynamo, takes us through her life's voyage on the ice - an odyssey that intertwines the grace of pirouettes with the rush of speed skating sprints. She's not just a master of the rink but also a guardian of its history, having penned a comprehensive chronicle of Lake Placid's figure skating legacy, proving that passion can indeed script history.
As the pulse of Lake Placid beats with year-round athletic fervor, Christie's story is a testament to the town's enduring Olympic legacy. She shares her dual roles as president of the skating clubs, fostering a haven for winter sports lovers and nurturing young talent in the frost-kissed arena. Her anecdotes stretch beyond the ice, embracing the town's love for outdoor adventures, revealing a community where the echo of past Olympians inspires the champions of tomorrow. Christie's narrative is one of destiny and serendipity, as every zephyr across Lake Placid's storied rinks whispers of her journey from an enamored tot to a multifaceted ambassador of the ice.
Wrap up your earbuds and embark on a heartwarming sojourn with Christie as we celebrate the confluence of dreams and reality in a town synonymous with winter wonder. Together, we spin stories that inspire others to chase their passions and skate through life's challenges with grace and resilience.
Be sure and follow Christie on Instagram @lakeplacidskater.
091 - Embarking on an adventure can be as simple as stepping outside your comfort zone and, for Desiree van Welsum, this meant transforming a health scare into a life of exploration. Desiree and her husband decided to go for the freedom of the open road, and in this episode, she recounts the profound lessons and lifestyle shifts that come with full-time RV living. From their first excursion in a 17-foot trailer to the sprawling comfort of a 40-foot motorized home, Desiree's international background and linguistic flair add color to her stories of travel and the day-to-day realities of a nomad.
Desiree's tale is more than just picturesque landscapes—it's about the quirks and character of the path less traveled. In this heart-to-heart, she sprinkles a sense of wonder through her narration of the most memorable stops and the people she's met along the way. Whether it's the misty majesty of Niagara Falls or the unexpected charm of Route 66, Desiree's travels are a testament to the joy of embracing life's unexpected turns. Her experiences, documented unfiltered in her travel books, invite us to share in the authenticity of RV adventures, from wild horse encounters to historic musical moments.
As we wrap up our journey with Desiree, she imparts wisdom on living in the moment and the significance of taking those first tiny steps towards your dreams. Whether you're inspired by her favorite destination, the Oregon coast, or simply curious about the logistics of RV living, Desiree's story is a siren call to those yearning for a change. Join us as she urges you to act on your wanderlust, discover new passions, and find beauty in living in the moment—just as she has in her inspiring quest across America.
Be sure and give Desiree a follow on Instagram @rvcruising and learn more about her books "The Long Way Home" by visiting her website www.thelongwayhometravels.com.
Follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast or check out my website www.journeywithjake.net.
090 - When dreams thunder into reality, it's a story you don't want to miss. Join me as I sit down with the electrifying Sarah Roberts, a professional barrel racer whose journey from a small Idaho town to the roaring arenas of rodeo is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Sarah didn't inherit a legacy of horse lovers; she carved her own path with determination and the support of a close friend. Her passion for the sport, kindled in her teenage years, has led her to a life where the roar of the crowd and the thrill of the chase are daily occurrences.
As Sarah and I gallop through her life's narrative, you'll be gripped by the meticulous dance around the barrels and the work ethic instilled by her supportive parents, which transformed her from a stall cleaner to a top-tier competitor. Her bond with her husband Kole, also a rodeo competitor, emphasizes the partnership and strategy necessary in high-stakes barrel racing. Life on the road is relentless, and Sarah takes us behind the scenes to reveal the rigorous demands of year-round competition and the deep, almost spiritual connection she shares with her equine partners.
Wrapping up with personal insights, Sarah's story is a testament to triumph, resilience, and faith. She's not just a competitor; she's an entrepreneur who balances the challenges of running a company while chasing her National Finals Rodeo dreams. Her parting wisdom to aspiring barrel racers echoes the spirit of her own journey: pursue your passion with everything you've got. And if you're as captivated by her story as I am, follow her on Instagram @sarah.ann.roberts for a front-row seat to the adventure. Because, as Sarah will tell you, it's about more than just the destination—it's about the ride.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Feel the rush of water beneath you and the tug of G-forces as I, Jake Bushman, share the microphone with Thomas Degasperi — or T-Gas to those in the know. He's not your average sportsman; he's a professional water skier with a story that stretches from Italian mountains to Floridian lakes. In this episode, Thomas reveals how a childhood surrounded by the love of water skiing and his parents' ski school led to a life of weaving through the slalom and chasing buoys at breakneck speeds.
Venture with us through the highs and lows of T-Gas's illustrious career, where victories on the junior European stage gave way to cultural hurdles and linguistic faux pas in Louisiana. It's a tale of resilience, family bonds, and the art of mastering a sport that's as demanding as it is rewarding. Thomas's transition from top-tier athlete to inspirational coach is a journey marked by his family's legacy and his own indomitable spirit. His insights extend beyond the ski, offering a philosophy that champions commitment in every walk of life, from competitive arenas to culinary adventures with family.
Wrap up your life jacket tight as Thomas takes us behind the scenes of the water skiing world's thrill and camaraderie. Learn what it takes to stay afloat in both professional tournaments and personal pursuits, as he balances the roles of coach and competitor. With tales of off-season reflection and the heart-pounding adrenaline of competition, we uncover the disciplined life of a world-class athlete who cooks with as much passion as he coaches. It's not just a conversation; it's an immersion into the life of someone who has skied the course of life with fervor and precision.
Be sure and give Thomas a follow on Instagram @this_is_tgas.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
When Sydney Benson leaped onto the gymnastics scene at eight years old, little did she know the heights she'd reach as a Brigham Young University gymnast. My guest, Sydney, shares her extraordinary journey with captivating stories that chronicle her evolution from a determined youngster into a collegiate athlete. From the thrill of competition to the camaraderie between teammates, we explore the nuances of gymnastic life, including the impact of family, with Sydney's music-major mother playing a pivotal role, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of athletic excellence.
Vault into the world of women's gymnastics with us as we dissect the four major events and discuss the intense preparation that goes into a collegiate meet. Sydney opens up about the mental fortitude required to come back from injuries, hitting personal bests, and the dynamism of team support, all while balancing rigorous academic demands. This conversation offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a gymnast's mind and the collective heartbeat of a team striving for perfection.
Beyond the mats and beams, Sydney gives a voice to the life of a student-athlete, including her love of singing and the myth of happiness being at odds with competitiveness. We address the importance of mental health in a sport where the pressure is as relentless as the pursuit of a flawless routine. Touching on lighter notes, like the role of hair and makeup in competitions, this episode paints a comprehensive picture of Sydney's world, where grit meets grace. Join us for a journey through the highs and lows of gymnastics, where every flip and twist tells a story of dedication and joy.
Be sure and give Sydney a follow on Instagram @_sydney_benson_ and while you are there check out my Instagram account as well @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
087 - A Christmas Day flight might not seem like an adventure starter, but that's exactly where I, Jake Bushman, met Zach Frisch, a trail runner with a love for Utah's untamed paths. Our conversation, as unexpected as the meeting itself, turned into a profound exploration of endurance, nature, and the communities we cherish. On this episode of Journey with Jake, Zach takes us along on his life's trek, sharing the thrills of his Instagram venture @trailswithzach , the balancing act of his athletic passion , and the candid joy of his early marriage days.
Amid the sound of our running footsteps, this episode weaves the exciting and demanding fabric of long-distance runs with personal tales that go beyond physical endurance. Whether sprinting past a bear during the 'Not Your Grandma's Marathon' or pushing through a 50-mile race on a mere twelve days of preparation, Zach's adventures marry the grit of trail running with poignant reflections on life's larger race. You'll find yourself rooting for him, all while contemplating the power of our own support systems and the emotional journeys we embark upon.
Wrapping up with heartfelt musings, we discuss the transformative allure of the trails and the process of recovery from injuries that test our mental fortitude. It's about more than just lacing up and hitting the dirt—it's a call to appreciate the raw moments of solitude and the intricate dance between the roles we play: athlete, spouse, friend, and trailblazer. Join us as we share the soulful side of sprinting through life, one trail at a time.
Be sure and give Zach a follow on his Instagram page @trailswithzach. You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
086 - Get ready to venture into the wild side! I'm thrilled to bring you an electrifying conversation with Amy Siewe, a fearless Python Hunter with a fascinating story to tell. A former homecoming queen and real estate agent, Amy switched gears in a major way when she swapped property showings for python hunting in the Everglades. You'll be hooked as Amy takes us through her unique journey, blending her childhood love of critters with her newfound passion.
Amy's tales from the swamps are nothing short of action-packed. From her perilous encounters with these titanic pythons to her innovative capture techniques, every minute is a thrilling ride. The adrenaline doesn't stop there, though. Amy also offers an enlightening perspective on the pressing issue of invasive species in Florida, giving you a rare inside look at this environmental concern. She's tackled numerous obstacles and even endured snake bites, but her bravery and unwavering determination only fuels her mission further.
But the adventure doesn't end here. As we stand at the dawn of a new year, we are thrilled to bring you more extraordinary stories that inspire and entertain. You never know what's around the corner on the Journey with Jake podcast. So don't forget to follow us on Instagram and stay tuned for the thrilling episodes that lie ahead. It's a ride you won't want to miss!
Be sure and follow Amy on Instagram @thepythonhuntress and I can be found @journeywithjakepodcast. It is going to be a great year!
Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
085 - Imagine packing up your life and jetting off to a remote island halfway across the world. That's the story of our spirited guest, Lexie Brown, who traded in her urban life for an adventure-packed existence on the Marshall Islands. This episode takes us on a wild journey to the sandy shores of the Pacific, unearthing the emotional upheaval and logistical challenges of such a drastic move.
Picture this: a small island, no personal vehicles, daily encounters with the vibrant local culture, and a lagoon teeming with marine life where aggressive fish are a part of your swimming experience. It's not your typical postcard vacation - it's Lexie's everyday life. We'll hear about her exhilarating diving ventures, a project that searches for the remains of missing American soldiers from World War II, and the personal milestones she's achieved while living on the island, including a triumphant three-mile swim.
Change can be terrifying, but it can also open doors to unimaginable adventures and personal growth. As Lexie narrates her tale of adapting to a new environment and embracing unique experiences, we're reminded of the endless possibilities that life presents when we dare to step out of our comfort zones. From funny anecdotes about trigger fish to inspiring stories of resilience and perseverance, this episode is a testament to the beauty of embracing change and seizing the day, island-style. Join us on this unforgettable journey with Lexie Brown!
You can follow Lexie on Instagram @lexienicolebrown to see her adventures first hand. Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
084 - Prepare to be transported to stunning landscapes, exotic cuisines, and rich cultures as we sit down for an enlightening chat with Jamie Edwards, the creator of the much-loved travel website I Am Lost and Found. www.iamlostandfound.com Her tales take us on captivating journeys, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the icy wilderness of Antarctica, and to the serene beauty of Uganda.
Journey with us as we navigate the thrilling waters of family travel adventures and cultural immersion. Hear firsthand how our guest, Jamie, and her family have used Japan as their launch pad for exploring Asia and how the unique experience of living in Tokyo with young children has shaped their perception of adventure.
The journey continues as we traverse the icy landscapes of Antarctica and embark on a gorilla trek in Uganda. Join us as we tackle the challenges of finding the time and resources for travel, especially with a family, and discuss the importance of cultural sensitivity while globetrotting. Finally, we wrap up our voyage with Jamie's favorite trip to India with her husband. Be prepared to be enthralled, entertained, and inspired to pack your own suitcase and set off on your own adventure.
Be sure and check out Jamie Edwards on Instagram @Iamlostandfound_ and on her website www.iamlostandfound.com.
083 - Strap yourself in for a thrilling ride on the wave! We have the electrifying Sam Studee, a professional wake surfer, a Minnesota native, and an all-round action sports enthusiast joining us on the show today. He’s going to take us through the rollercoaster ride of his journey, from being just a boy with a love for action sports to becoming a professional wake surfer. We’ll be hearing about his intriguing experiences surfing not just on wakeboards, but on coffee tables too! This is surely a conversation you wouldn't want to miss!
The conversation takes a deeper turn as Sam unveils the world of professional wake surfing; a dynamic, competitive yet tight-knit community. We journey through the structure of wake surfing competitions, the path to becoming a professional in the sport, and its global reach. We will also be surfing through the digital space, exploring Sam's social media presence, his viral wake surfing videos, and his aspirations for the future. So buckle up, folks, and get ready to ride this mighty wave with Sam Studee, a true action sports aficionado!
Be sure and give Sam a follow on all social media platforms @samstudee. You can also give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast. Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake.
081 - Join us for a heartening episode as we sit down with ultra-runner Ryan Head, whose story is the epitome of resilience. Over the years, Ryan has turned his life around, shedding 85 pounds as well as the mental and physical barriers that held him back. We journey with him on his path to personal transformation, as he moves from running a mile on a treadmill to completing full and half marathons, including the challenging Ogden Marathon.
In an exciting twist, we delve into the thrilling world of ultra-running with Ryan. We hear about the mental fortitude he mustered to participate in the grueling Antelope Island race. His approach to running, and life, is a testament to his fortitude, inspiring us all to face our challenges head-on.
In the final part of our chat, Ryan reflects on his experience at the Wasatch 100, and the invaluable role his support system played in this feat. He discusses how he battled the heat and fatigue while keeping his spirits high, thanks to his pacers, Ken Duncan, Nate Allred, and Jacob Bateman. We also discuss Ryan's future running plans and his ambition to keep running for as long as possible. Prepare to be inspired by this incredible story of triumph over adversity, and to catch the running bug yourself!
Check out more from Ryan by giving him a follow on Instagram @ry_head.
Thanks for all of your support to Journey with Jake. To learn more about me and my guests check out @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram. Just remember, it's not all about the destination as it is about the journey!!
081 - Get ready for a thrilling rollercoaster ride through exhilarating highs and challenging lows as I, Jake Bushman, recount my journey of running my second half marathon at the breathtaking Snow Canyon in St. George, Utah. Will I conquer the grueling 13.1 miles or succumb to the taxing trials of the course? Joined by my good friend, Paul Petersen, we explore this journey and much more, offering a deeper glimpse into my life beyond the podcast.
In a scintillating Q&A session, Paul dives into my personal and professional life, taking you on a journey from my high school days to my 25-year marriage and my long stint living in Vegas. We'll take you behind the scenes of race day, from the rush of starting line adrenaline to unexpected pit stops and the sweet taste of crossing the finish line. But it's not all about running; we also draw parallels between the marathon and the podcast, both journeys filled with unique experiences and amazing people.
In the final stretch, we reflect on the trials and triumphs of this adventure, drawing lessons that go beyond running. We share strategies to push through the most challenging moments and reveal how song lyrics and mantras can fuel our determination. I also express my heartfelt gratitude to you, the listeners, who inspire me to continue this podcast journey. With upcoming guests and your shared experiences, I promise to make each episode a memorable part of your journey. Remember, life is about the journey, not the destination, so let's continue this adventure together.
For more behind the scenes look at yours truly check out my Instagram account @journeywithjakepodcast and follow along.
080 - If you've ever wondered how one man can balance the exhilarating thrill of riding waves, with the calm tranquility of nursing, you're about to meet him. Meet our guest, Spencer Tong, a passionate surfer, nurturing nurse, and dedicated family man. This episode sees Spencer's captivating tales of surfing from Hawaii to Indonesia, and the life lessons he's harnessed from the vast ocean to the hustle of his life back on land.
Spencer didn't just fall in love with surfing; he mastered it. Listen as he takes us behind the scenes of competitive surfing, explaining the subtle strategies that helped him get ahead. His commitment to surfing has a ripple effect, teaching him invaluable skills that have been instrumental in his roles as a father, husband, and nurse. But every great adventure comes with danger. Hear about Spencer's heart-stopping encounter with a shark while surfing at Newport Beach, and his experiences in some of the world's most challenging surf spots.
But this episode is more than just high-octane adventure stories. It's about family, passion, and the harmony that can come from pursuing what you love. For Spencer, surfing isn't just a sport; it's a bond he shares with his sons, an outlet that has kept him balanced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a catalyst that keeps his zest for life burning. So, whether you're a surfer or simply someone seeking inspiration, get ready to ride the wave of Spencer's story, and remember his sage advice: find something that invigorates you, and cultivate a passion that fills you with a zest for life.
Be sure and leave me a rating and review on Apple Podcasts!! If you want to reach me you can email me at jake@@journeywithjake.net or DM on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
079 - You're in for an absolute treat, as today's episode of Journey with Jake is sure to ignite your wanderlust. We're joined by Dianni Hall, the awe-inspiring host of the podcast While She's Away. Dianni's been living a life of adventure for the past five years, immersing herself in various cultures, and today she offers us a glimpse into her thrilling nomadic lifestyle.
From her initial solo voyage to India that sparked her love for travel, to her daring escapades across Southeast Asia, Dianni's stories are as riveting as they are inspiring. She shares the challenges of finding financial stability as a podcasting freelancer, but also the joy of meaningful work combined with adventure. We explore her self-discovery journey, how she turned fear into fuel, and the life lessons she's gleaned from her experiences - from volunteering with animals in Thailand to teaching English in Spain.
But Dianni's story isn't just about globe-trotting. It's about how she found her identity and voice in the midst of foreign cultures, and how her Hispanic roots and upbringing played an instrumental role in shaping who she is today. As we journey through Dianni's life, we also delve into her transition from a master's program to solo travel, her family's initial concerns, and how she learned to embrace the unknown. So buckle up and get ready for an exhilarating ride through Dianni's adventurous life.
To learn more about Dianni follow her on Instagram @whileshesawaypod. Be sure and give me a follow @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram as well.
078 - Today's episode is a portrait of perseverance, dedication, and triumph amidst adversity. We're thrilled to bring you a heart-to-heart with Elsa Hassett, a cheerleading titan with six NCA championships and three NCA partner stunt championships under her belt. Elsa's journey takes us from her humble beginnings in gymnastics, all the way to the high-stakes world of competitive cheerleading at Weber State University.
Our conversation probes not only Elsa's glittering achievements, but also the moments of struggle that defined her journey. Elsa candidly shares about the setbacks she faced - from the disappointment of not making the University of Utah team, to the challenges of acclimating to cheers and sideline dances. Woven into this narrative is the story of a strong support system, a motivational coach, and the unwavering influence of her mother, all of which played a pivotal role in her journey towards becoming a champion.
But the journey doesn't end at championship victories! Join us as Elsa takes us through her experiences at Daytona, her plans for the future, and the legacy she leaves at Weber State University. From discussing her close-knit team, the raw talent that thrived at Weber State, and the roller-coaster of competing at Daytona, our conversation with Elsa is as exhilarating as her routines. Tune in, and let Elsa's remarkable journey inspire you to boldly face challenges and relentlessly chase your dreams.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. To learn more about the guests and host please follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
077 - Meet Tucker Balmert: an 11-year-old wakeboarding prodigy whose passion and determination have already led him to major triumphs in the sport. As our youngest guest yet, Tucker offers a unique perspective on the journey to success, sharing his experience from childhood practice sessions at Lake Barton under the committed guidance of his coach, Glenn Fletcher, to his crowning glory of winning the Junior Boys 2022 WWA Wakeboard World Championships. His story is as much about the thrill of wakeboarding as it is about the power of youthful ambition and resilience.
Within the competitive world of wakeboarding, Tucker stands as an inspiring figure for both his peers and those considering the sport. His insights on the intricacies of competitions and the art of executing tricks on the wake serve as a valuable guide for aspiring wakeboarders. But beyond the sport, the friendships he's forged, the challenges he's overcome, and his bright-eyed future aspirations reveal a heartfelt narrative that extends far beyond the water. Listen in, as Tucker's journey strikes a chord with any dreamer's heart, reminding us that passion, hard work, and a sprinkle of youthful optimism can indeed propel us to the heights of our dreams.
Be sure and give Tucker a follow on Instagram @tbalmert_wakeboarding and while you are there give me a follow as well @journeywithjakepodcast. Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake.
076 - Prepare to plunge into the depths of an awe-inspiring sojourn as we voyage with Allison Burkhard into her year of revelation and transformation. As she paints an evocative portrait of her path from an environmental law attorney to an ardent ocean travel and underwater photography enthusiast, you can feel the lapping waves and cool sea breeze. Her stories will transport you from the comfort of your room to the dancing northern lights of the Arctic Circle and the vibrant reefs of the Caribbean.
Feel the chill of the Arctic Circle as Allison narrates her first solo expedition to Norway. From the adrenaline rush of swimming with orcas and humpback whales to the challenges of illness in a foreign land, her tales are a testament to her resilience and spirit. And just when you think you've heard it all, she takes you on a surreal journey underneath the Caribbean waters, sharing her humbling encounters with majestic sperm whales and the beautiful lessons she learned from these gentle giants.
As we continue our auditory cruise, Allison invites us into an enchanting world inhabited by the playful Atlantic spotted dolphins near Bimini in the Bahamas. From forming relationships with these creatures to witnessing their extraordinary feeding behaviors, every anecdote is a testament to the breathtaking diversity of marine life. As the journey concludes, Allison will spark your curiosity for the future, as she sets her sights on leading her own expeditions and spreading her message of protection and love for these remarkable species. So, fasten your seatbelts and dive into this oceanic odyssey of adventure, resilience, and profound love for nature.
Be sure and check out Allison on Instagram @allisonunderwater_ and give her a follow. Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. You can find me on Instagram as well @journeywithjakepodcast.
075 - Join me as we embark on an invigorating journey with an incredible woman, adventurer, and traveler, Sara Iannacone. With a life story filled with globe-trotting experiences, culinary adventures, and a candid portrayal of her battle with anxiety, Sara is an inspiration to all of us who desire to explore the world and embrace life. Raised in quaint Mystic, Connecticut, Sara's love for travel was kindled early on in life, taking her on a whirlwind journey around the world and back.
During our conversation, Sara opens up about her experiences with local communities across different parts of the globe, providing a unique perspective on the impact of tourism. From spending a day with a family living without electricity to visiting a village with a conservation program, Sara's journey is not just about seeing new places, but truly experiencing them. As the conversation unfolds, she also shares her daring decision to leave her corporate job to pursue her dreams, and how she navigates the anxiety that sometimes accompanies her adventures.
Our chat with Sara is not just about her thrilling escapades, but also a deep dive into her personal life, her husband's unwavering support, her favorite travel experiences, and her love for culinary adventures. From their charming engagement story to their culinary exploration in Mexico, her stories are sure to ignite your senses. Above all, Sara's story is a testament to the power of gratitude, vulnerability, and the relentless pursuit of adventure. Tune in to our stirring chat and get inspired to chase your passions, no matter the odds.
Be sure and check out more from Sara on Instagram @onewanderfullife_ and her website www.sara-iannacone.com.
074 - Join the fascinating journey of Mario Ruiz, the Black Scuba Bear, on this episode of Journey with Jake. As your host I assure you this is not just a story about scuba diving. It's a journey of discovery, of connecting with the world beneath the surface, and of finding one's purpose in life. We'll start with Mario's early life in Miami, explore his love for water and marine life in California, and get glimpses of his awe-inspiring experiences with hammerhead sharks and black iguanas in the Galapagos Islands.
Prepare to be captivated as Mario takes us through the meticulous physical and mental preparation that goes into a dive day. Feel the thrill and the tension on the boat, the breathtaking beauty underwater, and the challenges that come with the sport. Mario's narrative will give you an idea about the importance of alertness, responsiveness, and understanding of air types in scuba diving. And that's not all; you'll also hear about his 'bear blessings,' a unique ritual that signifies the power of curiosity.
But wait, there's more! In the climax of our discussion, we'll go heart-to-heart about Mario's noble goal to help children with disabilities learn to scuba dive. Hear his valuable tips for beginners, his favorite underwater stories, and why having an experienced guide is crucial for safe diving. Stick around as Mario reveals his aspirations and how his passion for scuba diving can serve as an inspiration for others. This episode is a treasure trove of adventure and motivation, a story that will leave you fascinated and fired up. Tune in to Journey with Jake and brace yourself for an awe-inspiring ride beneath the waves with The Black Scuba Bear!
Be sure and follow Mario on social media @iamblackscubabear and check out all his adventures through that medium. Please give me a follow as well @journeywithjakepodcast to get to know my guests and myself a little better and be part of the Journey with Jake community.
073 - What if a rod and a reel could be a healing source for you? What if casting a line into a river could soothe your troubled mind? This is the fascinating story of our guest, Danny Keith, a fly fisherman from Wisconsin, who found solace and healing from his struggles with depression and mental illness through the serene art of fly fishing. Danny takes us on his journey, from a difficult upbringing and homeschooling to traveling around the country, finally returning to his home state.
Join us as we venture into the untouched beauty of the Driftless Area in Wisconsin, a breathtaking region of limestone bluffs, chalk streams, and wild trout species. Danny paints a vivid picture of this hidden gem within the fly fishing community. Hear how fly fishing became his form of meditation, his refuge from emotional turmoil, and the catalyst for his creative endeavors. Listen to his heartfelt tales of battling mental health issues, navigating emotional breakdowns, and the impact of a challenging childhood on his emotional resilience.
In the final act of this episode, we'll hear how Danny transformed his passion for fly fishing into an inspiring mission. After an emotional breakdown at work, he discovered the calming power of the great outdoors. His first profound connection with nature while fly fishing in the Driftless Area sparked an intense passion that he now wishes to share with others. Hear Danny’s story of finding joy and peace in their own journeys, underlining the significance of the journey itself, not just the destination. Tune in to this emotion-charged episode and discover the healing power of finding solace in nature, even in the face of life's toughest battles.
Be sure and follow Danny on Instagram @northernchase1 and give me a follow as well @journeywithjakepodcast to see a glimpse into my personal life and get to know my guests a little better through pictures and snippets.
072 - Hold on tight! This episode offers a thrilling ride as we plunge into the daring world of bull riding with our audacious guest, Gavan Hauck. An 18-year-old professional bull rider from Bandera, Texas, Gavan shares his unfiltered journey in this adrenaline-filled sport. Expect a heart-pounding narrative filled with life-changing experiences, family support, and the physical and mental grit needed to ride a 1500lb bull!
As we stir up dust with Gavan, we uncover the highs and lows of his bull-riding career. He candidly speaks about the risks, his rides with his practice bull, Biggie, and his extraordinary victory at a major rodeo event. We also delve into the rodeo world's camaraderie, the undervalued role of rodeo clowns, and Gavan's admiration for the two-time PBR world champion, Jess Lockwood.
In our riveting conversation, Gavan sheds light on the financial aspects of bull riding and the importance of consistency in this unpredictable sport. We explore his strategies to overcome slumps and stay mentally and physically fit. Gavan's story is a testament to passion, bravery, and resilience. Tune in to experience the captivating and hardcore world of bull riding through the eyes of a young professional.
To see more from my guests be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast . I also share some personal posts to get to know me better and who I am. Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake!
071 - Let's take an exciting trip as we ride shotgun with Sasha Lezhnev, an unbridled adventurer with a heart for humanity. Sasha's tales from the road are as diverse as they are inspiring - from wild weddings in Italian castles to challenging mountain hikes in Ecuador and even a cherry spitting contest. Yet, his journey is more than just an adrenaline rush; it's also about his impactful work in Africa, rehabilitating former child soldiers, and his contributions to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Fasten your seatbelts as we journey through Sasha's life as a full-time traveler, including the joys, the challenges, and the unexpected twists. Homeschooling his child on the road, Sasha paints a remarkable picture of the world as their classroom. His adventures span across continents, with an unforgettable proposal at Bolivia's Lake Titicaca, a four-day wedding celebration in a castle, and a peek into the beauty of slow traveling and RV living.
Be prepared for Sasha's tales of spontaneous road trips that inspire a longing for the open road. Discover the beauty of detours, the thrill of uncharted paths, and the freedom of the road less traveled. Sasha's stories encourage us to step out of our comfort zones, explore hidden gems, and relish the joy of discovering the world at our own pace. As we wrap up, Sasha shares about his website, www.offthebeatentravel.com, his Instagram page @sasha_travels, and his much-anticipated upcoming book. So join us, sit back, and let the journey begin!
070 - Get ready to soar to new heights with our fascinating guest, Dan Bentley, a seasoned helicopter pilot and an aspiring master falconer. Tag along for a whirlwind journey that traverses through the peaks and valleys of Dan's life, from piloting multi-million dollar helicopters to pursuing his passion for falconry. Listen closely as he navigates the challenges of needing glasses, and the art of mastering turbulence and prevailing winds – it's a high-stakes tale of perseverance, determination, and resilience.
Ever wondered what it feels like to fly over the Rocky Mountain National Park? Dan provides an exhilarating firsthand account of such an adventure while sharing riveting stories from his world of falconry. From a childhood captivated by raptors to his ongoing pursuit of becoming a master falconer, his experiences are as compelling as they are inspiring. As we delve deeper into his personal realm, Dan gives us a raw and heartfelt insight into his recent struggles and how he cultivates a shared love for adventure with his three daughters.
In the final segment of the episode, we explore the tradition-rich world of falconry, unravel its regulations, and underscore the importance of using wild meat as bait. Dan enlightens us about his goal of achieving the esteemed title of a master falconer, and shares captivating stories of tending to a Peregrine Falcon. So, whether you're an adrenaline junkie, falconry enthusiast, or an aficionado of captivating stories, this conversation with Dan Bentley is bound to inspire and entertain. Don't forget to tune in, drop us a rating, and share your own travel stories to be featured on our show, because remember, it's the journey that truly matters.
You can follow along with Dan's adventures on Instagram @daniel.bentley.3956 and while you are there be sure and give me a follow @journeywithjakepodcast.
Get ready for an adrenaline-filled adventure as we journey with our returning guest, Josh Baker, who is here to narrate his thrilling experience on the Wonderland Trail. This 93-mile loop around Mount Rainier is a test of stamina and courage, offering an array of terrains from rainforests to alpine and sub-alpine areas. With Josh’s vivid depiction, you will embody his anticipation, challenges, and triumphs as he embarks and conquers this strenuous trail.
Delving into the heart of his journey, Josh recounts his trials in the wilderness, showcasing the raw and real side of hiking. With the support of his friend, Austin, he managed to overcome his initial fears and physically demanding situations, even when faced with the brutal wilderness alone. This episode is not just about a hiking journey, but also a tale of camaraderie, resilience, and a revelation of a hiker's inner grit.
Join us as we wrap up with Josh's reflections on completing this adventurous trail. From a bear sighting in the high mountain meadow of Indian Henry's to the mostly downhill route on his last day, you will be transported to the heart of his journey. As he shares his three 'whys' for hiking, you may find yourself identifying your own 'whys' and rekindling your love for the great outdoors. So, buckle up for a wild ride with Josh Baker on the Wonderland Trail, where the journey is the destination.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast to learn more about my guests and get to know me a little better as well. Please tell all your friends about Journey with Jake!!
068 - Ready for a deep dive into the tranquil world of fly fishing and the healing power of nature? That’s exactly where we're headed with our guest, Matt Harmon. Matt is not just an avid fly fisherman and outdoor enthusiast, but he also plays a symphony of resilience as he shares his journey through bipolar type two and ADHD. Our conversation unravels his life story, filled with personal victories, love, fatherhood, and the joy of connecting with nature.
Imagine the serenity of a camping trip, the thrill of a '100 Fish Day', or the satisfaction of tying a perfect fly. These are the experiences that Matt Harmon uses to mend the fabric of his mental health, and he shares these stories with us. We explore the art and science behind fly fishing, capturing not just the technique, but also the emotion attached to it. Matt also unveils how he uses his platforms, Royal Wulff Outdoors and his YouTube channel, to spread his mantra of 'finding peace in the trees' and 'fishing saves lives'.
As we journey through the ups and downs of Matt’s life, we get a peek into how he views the world through the lens of fly fishing. We share the joy of his fishing adventures, his respect for the environment, and the unique sensation of holding a fish he's caught. Matt's experiences offer a refreshing perspective on managing mental health through nature and outdoor activities. Join us, and let’s draw inspiration from his tales of overcoming life's challenges through these exhilarating adventures.
Please give Matt a follow on Instagram @royal_wulff_outdoors and follow me as well @journeywithjakepodcast. If you would be so kind I would also love a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thank you so much for your support of Journey with Jake!
Ever dreamed of visiting all 63 U.S. National Parks but don't know where to start or how to fit it in your schedule? Get ready to be inspired as I, your host Jake, welcome Liz Bailey from the Instagram account @wanderingontheweekends on today’s episode. Liz and her husband managed to pull off an incredible feat, visiting every U.S. National Park and all 50 states in just three years, while still maintaining their full-time jobs. Listen in as Liz shares their journey, from the awe-inspiring sunsets of Yosemite to the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon and one of her personal favorites, Zion National Park.
Liz's insights go beyond the stunning landscapes, as she emphasizes acknowledging the native lands of the parks, and highlights the often overlooked roles of the park Rangers. We also navigate through some fascinating wildlife encounters, underscoring the importance of protecting the land and its inhabitants. From encounters with bears to mountain goats, these stories serve as a vivid reminder of the diverse life that calls these parks home.
As we wrap up, we discuss Liz's upcoming goal of visiting 40 countries by 40. Her infectious spirit of exploration is a testament to the endless wonders that await us if we dare to step out of our comfort zones. Whether the allure of National Parks calls to you, or you simply wish to explore the world in your own way, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical tips. Tune in, and find your journey.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. Be sure and follow Liz @wanderingontheweekends on Instagram.
Prepare to step into the world of wild exploration and outdoor adventures with our guest, Haley Suebert. Sharing her story from the scorching deserts of Phoenix, Arizona to the snow-capped peaks of Colorado, Haley opens up about her love for hiking, camping, and outdoor travel, coupled with her intriguing career as a biomedical engineer with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Not just another mountaineer, Haley shares her unique preference for 'bagging' alpine lakes over conquering Colorado's famed 14ers.
Join us as we navigate through Haley's perilous Grand Canyon experience that underlined the significance of safety in outdoor excursions. Hear her emphasize the need for thorough research before embarking on any adventure and the immense value of a wilderness first aid certificate to ensure a safe journey. Haley also takes us through her encounters with popular outdoor locations, such as Colorado’s Maroon Bells and the Wave in Arizona, shedding light on the reality behind the Instagram hype.
To wrap up, Haley reminisces about a humorous camping mishap in Texas that, despite its initial challenges, has now become a cherished memory. We also delve into the emotional side of her journey as she discusses the loss of her beloved horse and how she found solace in the mountains. Filled with life lessons, challenges, and inspiring stories, this episode encourages you to embrace the world around you, take on life's hurdles, and celebrate the beauty of the great outdoors. So, let Haley’s story inspire you to tie up your hiking boots and set your compass towards the next adventure.
Haley is on Instagram @heartoutdoorshaley so please give her a follow and see what she is up to. Thanks to everyone who listens to Journey with Jake each week. To get to know me and my guests a little better please give me a follow @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram.
065 - Ever found yourself standing at the precipice of a new life, heart pounding with a mix of fear and exhilaration? That's exactly where our guest, Tara, found herself when she left Texas for Utah, knowing not a soul. Trading in her comfortable known for the wild unknown, she embraced her courage in a whole new way. In a heartfelt conversation, we talk about what it means to be courageous and how this trait influenced Tara's passion for hiking,
Picture this: A lone woman in a new state, accompanied only by her furry friend - a constant companion in her battles against loneliness. Tara's tale of forging new paths, both literally and metaphorically, will resonate with anyone who's ever found themselves in unfamiliar territory. Her story is not just about the physical act of hiking but rather the exploration of her inner strength. We talk about her adventures, her inspirations, and how she managed to form a small but strong family in a place so far removed from her roots.
It's one thing to hike, it's another to do it in the harsh winters of Utah. But not for Tara. She shares her love for winter hiking, her favorite trails - Sardine Peak and Lake Blanche - and even her toughest trails like Pfeifferhorn. At its core, this conversation is a testament to human resilience, the joy of discovery, and the spirit of adventure. So strap on your hiking boots, and join us as Tara takes us on her journey of courage, resilience, and the beauty of the great outdoors.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. Please give Tara a follow on Instagram @tara.on.a.hike to see more of her adventures. To learn more about me and my guests give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
Ditch the notion that only high-performance athletes have stories worth sharing. This week, I'm humbled to chat with Jason Bahamundi and Aum Gandhi, the masterminds behind Run Tri Bike. They believe in the power of every individual story, the triumphs and the hiccups, from endurance sports beginners to seasoned pros. We’re also stirring up a debate on the polarizing culinary choice of pineapple on pizza. Yes, you heard it right!
Caught in the whirlwind of endurance sports, Jason and Aum's journey is nothing short of remarkable. They've come a long way, running quarter miles before progressing to mammoth challenges like Ironman. Their path, laden with trials, tribulations, and the thrill of crossing the finish line, isn't just inspiring; it's a testament to human resilience. With Run Tri Bike, they're amplifying the voices of often overlooked everyday athletes and underrepresented communities, illuminating their unique narratives colored with determination, passion, and strength.
But, what’s an athlete’s story without a taste of defeat? We’re not just talking victories here; we're embracing the journey, acknowledging the hard work, and even celebrating the 'DNF' stories. The ups and downs, the failures, and the comeback are all part of the bigger picture. Join us as we navigate the realm of endurance sports, drawing strength from the stories we share, and learning how to foster a growth mindset. Sometimes, it’s about running; other times, it’s about life. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of endurance sports, peppered with humor and a lot of heart. So lace up your shoes and get ready for a rollercoaster ride of emotions, inspiration, and a sprinkle of controversy in the kitchen!
Please follow Run Tri Bike by visiting their website www.runtrimag or following them on Instagram @runtrimag. You can also learn more about my guests and myself by following Journey with Jake on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast. Thank you for listening to another episode of Journey with Jake.
063 - Here's your chance to embark on a vicarious adventure through the eyes of our brave guests, Haley and Jake. This engineering duo decided to leave the conventional life behind and hit the road on a fascinating journey. They've transformed from mere engineers to accomplished vanlife adventurers, exploring the stunning terrains of Mexico, building their own van from scratch, and overcoming the challenges that come with an adventurous lifestyle.
Our conversation with Haley and Jake takes us on a ride across the beautiful Baja Peninsula, through the streets of mainland Mexico, and into their personalized van that's a marvel of self-reliance. Together, we navigate through their experiences with the welcoming Mexican locals, and the breathtaking landscapes that make this journey worth every mile. They also share the struggles they've overcome, like language barriers and navigation issues, and the tech solutions that have come to their rescue.
But this episode isn't just about the road, it's about the journey within. Haley and Jake open up about how this van life adventure has not just been a geographical shift, but a shift in their relationship and personal growth. From planning their wedding in the Yucatan to dealing with the grueling summer heat, they share insights that redefine the perception of van life. Whether you're a van life enthusiast, an aspiring adventurer, or someone who loves a good travel story, this episode is a treasure trove of experiences, advice, and the real deal about life on the road.
Be sure and follow along with Haley and Jake on Instagram @hayleyandjake and on their Youtube channel @HayleyandJake.
Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast to learn more about my guests and a little about your host as well!! I would love it if you could leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake!
062 - Here's a treat for you, folks! Join us as we navigate through the picturesque landscapes of Utah with the delightfully engaging Rebecca Hrabar from @utahfamilytravels. Fasten your seat belts as we venture out on a family travel expedition, crafting memories and collecting stories, all while relishing the beauty of the great outdoors. On this jaunt, we get a chance to peek into Rebecca’s life as a traveling mom and adventurer, juggling between her love for exploring and her family's needs.
Ever wondered how a family's love for nature evolves over time? Hear Rebecca share her family's progression from amateur outdoorsy folks to seasoned nature enthusiasts. Listen to their rejuvenating experiences, from the adrenaline rush of backpacking adventures to the tranquility of soaking in nature's beauty. As we move along, Rebecca unfolds the magic of Utah's less-traveled paths, beyond its famous national parks. Imagine a place that offers wildflowers, thrilling bobsled rides, and beach vibes.
We then take a deeper look at the peculiarities of outdoor adventures as we share some laugh-out-loud incidents and a few missteps on our trails. Tune in as we discuss the art of balancing motherhood and the joys and trials of family travels. So, gear up for this captivating episode that is guaranteed to pique the interest of every family who dares to dream of exploring the great outdoors together!
Be sure and follow Rebecca on Instagram @utahfamilytravels. You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast. Be sure and leave me a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts!
061 - Ever wonder how hurling your way through Ireland or navigating icy fjords in Iceland could transform your life? Or how about the impact of social media on your personal expectations? Join Allie and Regan from the Wanderlusting Wives Podcast , as we travel across borders and delve into socio-cultural norms, all from the comfort of this podcast.
Sit back and fasten your seat belts as we take you on a captivating ride through the highs and lows of Allie's adventurous camping escapades during her sophomore year of college and Regan's adrenaline-pumping river rafting trip. We'll also regale you with our enthralling experiences at a hurling match in Ireland and a unique first birthday party in Bolivia. But that's not all; we'll also be revealing the challenges and trials faced in navigating life changes and societal expectations, right from their first year of marriage to setting up our their own traditions.
In the final leg of our journey, we'll transport you to Allie's and Regan's favorite travel destinations spanning from the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park to the vibrant streets of Paris, before rounding off our conversation with some heartfelt reflections. The Wanderlusting Wives, believe in the power of adventure and the transformative journey of travel, and want to remind you to break away from societal expectations, find your own path, and embark on your unique journey. So, are you ready for an adventure?
Please give Allie and Regan a follow on Instagram @wanderlustingwives and check out their podcast, Wanderlusting Wives, on all major podcast platforms. Be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and leave me a review on Apple Podcasts! Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake!
Picture this: you're on a journey, navigating the twists and turns of life, much like training for a half marathon. Drawing parallels between everyday hurdles and the pursuit of running, guest host Rick Bamford (from episode 35) talks to me about my half marathon experience and dives into some of my insights about the podcast.
Are you ready to unleash the power of gratitude? There's magic in the mundane, and joy in the simple moments that often go unnoticed. We talk about my transition from a travel to an adventure podcast and underline the importance of reaching out to others to lift us all - because we're in this race together. With laughter, camaraderie, and a dose of wisdom, this episode will certainly resonate with you on every level.
As we wrap up this enlightening episode, I, Jake, reflect on my achievements and discuss future growth. We celebrate milestones, no matter how big or small, and underscore the importance of relishing life's little moments. So, join me on this adventure, because sometimes, life is like a thrilling half marathon, and you just need to keep running!
Be sure and give my guest host, Rick Bamford a follow on Instagram @lord_rickster and check out my Instagram account as well @journeywithjakepodcast. I hope you enjoy getting to know me a little bit better. There are some fantastic Journey with Jake episodes coming your way so be ready for those!!
059 - What if a 14-year-old boy could inspire you to see the world through a different lens? Meet Adarsh Nagda, a young wildlife enthusiast from Nairobi, Kenya, who is on a mission to invite us all to protect our wildlife. Join us as we journey through Adarsh's exciting wildlife encounters, from his first visit to Nairobi National Park to his daring escapades, including watching a cheetah on a hunt and getting stuck in the mud with a lioness nearby.
Adarsh's passion for wildlife is contagious. Every thrilling adventure and heartfelt experience he shares, whether it's observing the Big Five of Africa or capturing the unique wildlife species of Kenya through the lens of his camera, is a testament to his deep love for the animal kingdom. We also discuss the impact of tourism on wildlife and share some insights on how to engage responsibly with our natural environment.
However, our conversation is not just about adventures. We also delve into the pressing issues facing wildlife conservation. Adarsh shares his experiences visiting various conservation sites and his thoughts on the challenges of habitat destruction and the illegal wildlife trade. His plea for everyone to join in his mission to protect wildlife, starting with adopting an elephant, is not only inspiring but also a stark reminder of the vital role we all play in preserving our planet. So, listen in, get inspired, and perhaps, adopt an elephant!
Please give Adarsh a follow on Instagram @adarsh.nagda and follow me as well @journeywithjakepodcast to see some clips and pictures of my guest!!
058 - What happens when a 20-year-old adventure-seeker from Maryland discovers the world of acrobatics? Join us this week as we chat with Tigor Lettsome about his fascinating journey from basketball to acro and the life lessons he's learned along the way. Raised in a diverse family and homeschooled, Tigor's unique background plays a significant role in his indomitable spirit and drive to overcome the challenges he faces in life.
Learn how a friendly bet with his family sparked a dedication to health and fitness that eventually led Tigor to the world of acrobatics. Listen in as he shares his experiences as part of the acro team in college, the performances they put on, and the incredible community they've built together. Discover how Tigor's unwavering discipline and faith have enabled him to push through pain and become a stronger athlete and individual.
As Tigor reflects on his journey so far, he offers up valuable advice for anyone chasing their dreams: don't wait. The conversation touches on the importance of seizing opportunities and embracing challenges as chances for growth. With plans to finish his business major Tigor's story is a testament to the power of determination and resilience. Don't miss this inspiring and motivating episode with Tigor Lettsome!
Be sure and give Tigor a follow on Instagram @therealtigor and while you are at it give me a follow @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram as well.
057 - What happens when a couple goes from dating app to running marathons together? Join us on a wild adventure with ultra runners and podcast hosts, Jacob and Melody Bateman from Trail to 100, as we explore their captivating journey to conquering ultra races and growing stronger individually and as a couple.
Discover the incredible stories of their running experiences, including the challenges of tackling a 100-mile race, the near-miraculous finding of water in the middle of a scorching hot trail, and even a close encounter with a charging moose! Learn how determination and pushing through mental and physical barriers can change your life and ignite your passion for adventure.
As Jacob and Melody share their coaching services for beginner ultra runners, we'll delve into their valuable tips and insights on how to train for and conquer your first 100-mile race. Melody also reveals her experience staying active and fit during her pregnancy, proving that determination and love for adventure can be maintained even in the face of life's changes. So, tune in and let the Batemans' incredible story inspire you to push through your own challenges and reach for your goals.
Be sure and give them a follow on Instagram @trailto100 and Melody's coaching @thepinetreerunner. Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast to see snippets from the show and pictures of my guests! Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake.
056 - Ever dreamt of soaring through the skies like a bird? Strap in for an adrenaline-pumping conversation with Walker Becraft, a paramotor enthusiast who'll take us on a journey to the thrilling world of powered paragliding and paramotoring. Discover how the perfect combination of wing fabric, motor, and propeller can create an unforgettable experience among the clouds.
Join us as Walker shares his passion for defying gravity, exploring the technical aspects of paramotoring, and offering invaluable advice for those keen on trying out this extreme sport. Gain insights into Walker's nerve-wracking yet awe-inspiring flights, including his mountain range adventure, and learn about the importance of proper training and equipment. But the excitement doesn't end there - we also discuss Walker's paramotoring escapades in Northern Utah, where he performs maneuvers like barrel rolls and wing overs while also working with military personell.
Get ready to be inspired by Walker's contagious enthusiasm for paramotoring, a reminder that sometimes the most fulfilling adventures are the ones that take us to new heights. Listen in as we uncover the secrets of this incredible sport and find out how you, too, can break free from gravity's grasp and conquer the skies.
You can follow Walker on Instagram @walkerb___ and see some great footage of his paramotoring flights on Instagram.
Thank you for listening each and every week. For more information and insights into my guests follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
055 - Ever wondered how to bring the magic of travel into your everyday life? Join us as we chat with Kat Medina, author of The Joys of Jetlag, who reveals her secrets for embracing a traveler's mindset at home. We discuss the contrast between how we act while traveling and our behavior in our daily routines, and how we can use a traveler's mindset to live more fully and joyfully, no matter where we are.
In this captivating conversation, Kat shares her experiences of visiting Cuba and finding happiness in the people and culture, even amidst poverty. By disconnecting from her phone and focusing on the present moment, Kat unlocked the beauty of the unknown. Listen in and learn how stepping away from technology can open doors for creativity, imagination, and connection.
Lastly, we delve into the challenge of bridging the gap between the excitement of traveling and the fulfillment of our day-to-day lives. Kat imparts her wisdom on embracing adventure, staying open-hearted, and finding humor in the unexpected. Discover how saying "yes" to the present moment can lead to more meaningful experiences and how to shift your mindset to make the most out of your everyday life. Come along with us on this journey to living fully with a traveler's mindset!
Please give Kat a follow on Instagram @katmedinawriter and check out her book "The Joys of Jet Lag". You can find the book on Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Just search for "The Joys of Jet Lag" or visit her website www.katmedina.com.
If you want to see some pictures and clips from the episodes give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and join our community there.
054 - It amazes me how some people are able to push on and on even after setbacks like shin splits, quad pains, torrential downpours, and wind. Today's conversation with ultrarunner, Andrew Hedgman, gives us a taste of what it is like to face setbacks and keep on going.
Andrew comes from New Zealand, but his running has taken him all over the world including Africa and Turkey. He has such a passion for running that he can even enjoy the moment and the beauty while hunched over and throwing up. It just goes to show how much we can endure and still find the joy in the journey.
I love how well rounded Andrew is as he pursues a degree in communication and still finds the time to enjoy his passion of video games. Come along for the ride with Andrew Hedgman.
You can find Andrew on Instagram @andyroyz so please be sure and give him a follow to see what he is up to.
Please leave me a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcasts. You can also give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and learn more about my guests through pictures and clips of our conversations. You will also see some of my personal adventures and who I am. Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake.
053 - My guests this week are Oak and Elton from @ohh_theplaceswego on Instagram. As the title suggests Oak and Elton are newlyweds and we touch on some of their adventures together.
While the adventures are great I love getting to know my guests and I loved hearing how they met and also how they came to find each other. Oak and Elton come from two different worlds, but in this great big world have found each other.
They are currently living in Hawaii and enjoying what the islands have to offer. Lots of adventure each and every day for them in Hawaii. Some of their fondest memories come from Australia where they met and grew to know and love each other. Sit back and enjoy the stories from Oak and Elton!
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. I would love to have you as part of my community. Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and see what my guests look like and enjoy some of their pictures and videos. Instagram is also a great way to get to know me personally and who I am. Please follow along and say hi.
052 - I have spoken to quite a few distance runners and they all have a love for running. It is something that drives them and helps them overcome their challenges. In this episode I spoke with ultrarunner, Kate Olson, who not only loves running, but she really finds ways to make it fun.
From taking different trails, to exploring different countries or perhaps running to get tacos, Kate finds a way to make it fun. Part of what makes it fun for Kate is her positive attitude towards every situation. On her last 100 mile race she encountered a torrential downpour and the rain didn't stop all night. Did that phase Kate? Nope! She kept on running and took first place. Kate Olson is the epitome of adventurer and explorer. Runners and non-runners alike will love hearing from Kate. She also talks about her time on the TV show Wipeout!
Please give Kate a follow on Instagram @onthejumbotron and let her know you listened to her on Journey with Jake.
To see pictures and videos of my guests check out my Instagram page @journewithjakepodcast . Feel free to message me through Instagram or send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net . I would love to hear from you.
051 - I feel like sometimes I get in a rush to get to my destination. Talking with Anna and Edo from the Go Far Podcast made me realize I need to slow down and practice what I preach about enjoying the journey.
I had a great conversation with Edo and Anna about their podcast which is all about their own adventures and human powered travel. What is human powered travel? Cycling, walking, hiking and just being outside and taking things slow. I was fascinated with the pure enjoyment they get from taking days to cycle along the Danube river. Not everything is easy and fun, but that is part of the memories and learning these adventures create for us.
Anna spoke about her love for walking including going on pilgrimages. For both Anna and Edo these walks have provided for them not just in a spiritual sense, but often times in a physical sense as well. Come walk and cycle with Anna and Edo!
You can find the Go Far Podcast on all major podcast platforms or check out their website www.gofarpods.com . You can also follow with them on Instagram @gofarpodcast .
Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake. To see pictures of my guests give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast . I would love to hear from you! Feel free to DM me on Instagram or send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net.
050 - Imagine swimming for 6 miles, riding a bike for 200+ plus miles, and running for 52 miles in 3 days!! This is exactly what my guest, Mario Minnaert did as he competed in the Ultraman Florida.
This podcast was more than just the adventure of competing in an Ultraman event. This episode was full of motivation, lessons to be learned, and the realization that we can do hard things. From the exasperation of swimming an extra mile, to the heart warming feeling of having your older brother there to lift you when you need it most. Mario's motivating and inspiring stories will be sure to lift your spirits. Mario is after all, a coach!!
You can find Mario on Instagram @mario.minnaert or check out his website www.endurify.co . Let him know you heard him on Journey with Jake.
I would love it if you could leave a rating and review for the podcast on Apple Podcasts. That would mean a lot to me. You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast for pictures, clips, and personal fun from me!
049 - Have you ever had a dream to a live a life full of adventure? In this episode we talk to Guido and Helena from Againstallwinds (check them out on Instagram @againstallwinds) who are in the process of living their dream. What is their dream? To live on sail boat and sail the world!
Part of the process to live your dream is to take risks and we dive into this with Helena and Guido and how they are taking risks to be happy.
We also talk about some of the mishaps of learning to sail like losing all your power or dropping your phone into the ocean. As well as going on a charter with the angry old skipper to learn if this is the life for you. This is all told from Guido and Helena's perspective and you can sense the joy and memories these stories are creating for them. Come along as we sail with Guido and Helena.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. I would love it if you can leave me a review on Apple Podcasts. I also would love to hear from you about anything regarding the show. Send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net. You can also follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast to see clips and photos of my guests as well as getting to know me a little better personally as well.
048 - What is shuffle dancing? I was unsure myself, but I was mesmerized by these content creators shuffle dancing on Instagram. I could see passion in their moves and just a strong energy coming from them. One of these dancers is Charley McGarry.
Charley only recently picked up shuffle dancing during the COVID 19 Pandemic, but she has made quite a name for herself and has such a dynamic personality. We explore this world, but also tap into some of Charley's thoughts on keeping balance as she lives her life and finds the time to enjoy her passion as a shuffle dancer.
For more information about Charley give her a follow on Instagram @charleymcgee or on TikTok charleymcgee_ .
Thank you for your continued support of Journey with Jake. For more information, pictures, and clips from the show give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast . Feel free to send any comments to jake@journeywithjake.net or direct message me on Instagram.
047 - Brittany Peterson is a remarkable athlete and an even better human being. It was fantastic to talk with Brittany about her time as an ultrarunner and some of her successes and also her challenges.
Brittany is going through the process of being sidelined for a bit while she deals with injury. For someone who has made a career out of running the prospects of not running can be challenging. Brittany dives into her challenges and what she is doing to look ahead and the hope to be running again soon.
My conversation with Brittany also looked at the top moments of getting into the Western States 100 by winning a golden ticket and the humor of bonking in Boise. Come along and run with Brittany. You can follow along with Brittany @runhappyb on Instagram.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. Please leave me a review on Apple Podcasts. To see pictures and clips from my guests please give me a follow @journeywithjakepodcast on Instagram.
046 - Have you ever thought about living a life at sea? For Lauren Landers this thought is a reality. At a young age Lauren is living on her 51 foot sail boat in the Bahamas.
It was fascinating to hear about Lauren's love for the sea and how that love has turned into full-time living at sea. Not only is Lauren a certified Captain she is also a free dive instructor and love spending time in and under the water. She has swam with dolphins and sharks including the famous Hammerhead shark. From sailing at night and sailing solo Lauren is living her best life. She does face challenges like the rest of us and is learning and growing as she moves forward.
Come aboard the Soul De La Mar with Lauren Landers and set sail for Adventure!
Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake. Please think about leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. I would really appreciate that. To see pictures and clips from the show be sure and give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast. Just remember it is not always about the destination as it is about the journey!
045 - This was my first time really diving into adventures with pets! I had the chance to speak with Les and Kirstie Card from Cattle Dogs and Company. The Cards are from Nova Scotia in Canada and venture all over their Provence and neighboring areas going on adventures with their dogs.
The real stars of the show are Jackson, Memphis, and Mersey the cattle dogs. Having the dogs has encouraged the Cards to get outdoors and explore. It was fun to hear some of the experiences they have encountered on Prince Edward Island, The Cabot Trail, Mt. Carleton and many other locations.
I really loved how Les talked about mental health issues and how adventuring can really be a great way to fill up your cup.
Be sure and follow Les and Kirstie along with their dogs on Instagram @cattledogsandco . They also have some great videos you will want to watch on YouTube.
Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake. I would love to connect with you. Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and send me a note to say hi!
044 - I love talking to Ultra Runners. They have such a determination and grit that is hard to describe. My guest this week, Michael Whiteside, is someone who I would describe as someone with both grit and determination.
Michael is from my home state of Utah and is fairly new on the Ultra Running scene. Michael has dealt with a tough past, but uses ultra running as another way to battle past addictions and self-doubt. It was fun talking to Michael about the beauty he sees when he runs and the community of trail runners that make up such a tight knight group. I also love how much Michael's family and in-laws mean to him and the support they give him.
This episode was inspiring and entertaining. I really loved getting to know who Michael is a person. To follow along a little closer to Michael give him a follow on Instagram @michael_dean82 .
Thank for listening to Journey with Jake. If you feel so inclined please think about leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you are an adventurer or know somebody who is send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net and let's talk to them!!!
043 - Part of what makes going on adventures memorable is the time we spend with others doing the things we love. My conversation with Julie and Sara from @folkloreadventures really showcased how much fun it is to share an experience with a friend.
Julie and Sara started their adventures together by taking a 2 week trip not really knowing each other that well. It turns out they clicked really well together and now try to take advantage of their friendship to experience hiking, camping, backpacking, and road tripping together. From a 7 to 8 hour drive to Yosemite National Park on a weekend all the way to Patagonia in Chile and Argentina they find the fun and enjoyment of creating memories together.
This episode is a lot of fun. There were conversations about a close bear encounter as well as frolicking in a field with cows while wearing a dairy cow onesie. This is an episode that will bring a smile to your face!
Feel free to follow along with Sara and Julie on their adventures by giving them a follow on Instagram @folkloreadventures .
Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake. I would love to hear from you and know about your adventures. Send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net or message me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast .
042 - Do you remember seeing the animated version of Aladdin back in the 90s and watching Aladdin run around Agrabah? I felt like I was in Agrabah as my guest, Andrew Dean, took me on his adventures through Morocco.
I have always been fascinated with the country of Morocco. Morocco sits close to Europe, but is it's own unique place. From the Blue Pearl of Morocco, the bustling souks of Marrakech, and the beautiful sand of the Sahara desert this was a fun and inspiring adventure.
Andrew tells some great stories and I learned the importance of not dwelling too much on outside factors when deciding to travel and pursue your adventures. He also taught me the importance of appreciating the culture you are in while on your adventures. If you have not done so put Morocco on your list of places to visit and have your own Moroccan adventure!
Andrew Dean is a professional photographer and avid traveler. Check him out on Instagram @drewtravels4life .
Thank you for your continued support of Journey with Jake. If you are adventurous and have any stories or experiences I would love to hear about them. Send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net or direct message me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast . I would love to hear from you!
041 - I sometimes hear about things people accomplish and it is hard to fathom or imagine what they do. My guest today is the Ultramarathon Man, Dean Karnazes.
Dean has done things that I can only imagine. He has run long distances all the over the world in some of the most unforgiving climates and temperatures including Antarctica and Death Valley. Through all of this the biggest takeaway I came away with is how Dean has found himself. There are so many parallels to life that we can take away from what Dean shares. I am nowhere close to running the distances that Dean runs, but I was able to learn more about myself and how to take things one step at a time!
Be sure and check out Dean Karnazes on social media and the web. You can follow him on Instagram @ultramarathon or check out his website www.ultramarathonman.com . I am sure you will be inspired as much as I am.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. You can find some extras about my guests as well as some personal insights of me as well by following me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast . If you have a special place, adventure, or experience that you would like to share please let me know. I would love to hear from you. You can message me on Instagram or send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net .
040 - I had the chance to speak with Jackie Carbo about the idea of traveling while working remote. One of the benefits from the COVID-19 pandemic has been the opportunity to work remote. Jackie jumps into the fact we don't have to quit or day jobs to travel more. We can work remote while we travel.
I loved my conversation with Jackie as we touched on some of her favorite places to visit which include Central America. Spending the night watching an erupting volcano will surely be at the top of anyone's lists of amazing experiences.
Please give Jackie a follow on Instagram to see everything she is up to. You can find her @bonvoyagejackie and learn more about how she travels and works remote.
Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake. I would love to hear your feedback. Please send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net or message me on Instagram @journeyiwthjakepodcast .
039 - I am in one year into Journey with Jake and what a ride it has been! Today's episode felt like a dream come true for me. I had the opportunity to speak with Adam and Kathryn from Adventures of A+K. Why is that a dream come true for me you might ask? Adam and Kathryn were the first content creators that I said to myself that I would love to have them on the show. It took me awhile, but I was able to chat with them about their lives and what they are up to. They are just as fun in person as they are on social media.
Adventures of A+K is all about helping other travelers by sharing their experiences and resources on social media and in particular with a fantastic YouTube channel. They have traveled most of the United States in their converted sprinter van and share experiences about van life and just the overall joy and challenges of full-time travel.
Adam and Kathryn have some of the best travel videos available on YouTube. Be sure and give them a follow on Instagram @adventuresofaplusk and check out their YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@AdventuresofAplusK .
What a great way to start they year with Adventures of A+K.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. I would love to hear about a place or experience that has special meaning to you. Please reach out to me via email to jake@journeywithjake.net or DM me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast . I would love to hear from you.
038 - I have always been intrigued by wildlife and one of my favorite things to do while traveling is look for animals along the way. In this episode I had the chance to speak with Marshall Brown who is a professional wildlife photographer.
Not only is Marshall a wildlife photographer, but he also loves to travel. Marshall has been to over 50 of the US National Parks including the Dry Tortugas. He shares some fascinating stories and memories from all of these wonderful places he has visited.
Not only do we get to enjoy his experiences with wildlife, but Marshall also touches on the humanity side of things including an experience with Cuban refugees. You will not want to miss this episode!
For more information about Marshall and his work as a photographer please give him a follow on Instagram @marshall.travels .
Please be sure and leave a review for this show. If you have a place or an experience that has meaning to you let's talk about it on the show. Send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net.
037 - How many of us travel and think I need that "Wow" moment in order for me to feel like this trip is complete? Although it is not necessary this is something Ann and Cory Stewart look for when they travel.
I am fortunate I had the chance to speak with Ann and Cory from The Traveling Stewarts about their recent trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. I have always been fascinated by both the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg. Have you ever played miniature golf up on a mountain or visited a theme park on a mountain. In Gatlinburg this all possible and happened for the Stewarts. We also get to hear about the "Wow" moment for Cory in the Great Smoky Mountains! You will really enjoy this episode!
If you want to look at more from the Stewarts be sure to follow them on Instagram @the_traveling_stewarts and also check out their YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@thetravelingstewartssights7262 .
Thanks to everyone for listening to the podcast. Please leave a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. Send any comments to jake@journeywithjake.net .
036 - One of the thrills of traveling for me are those sweet moments when everything seems to be just perfect! We get to experience that on this episode as LeAnne and Lyle from the Beach Travel Wine Podcast talk about their love for Spain and some of their experiences in this wonderful country.
Lyle and Leanne are from Australia and made a commitment to travel as much as possible. They have been all over the place including the Maldives (thanks Jimmy Barnes!!), but Spain is such a special place to them.
From seeing castells (human towers) in person to staying in Paradores (essentially a palace). This episode has it all including a special quiet moment between Leanne and Lyle that seemed to be just perfect!
After listening to Leanne and Lyle I am excited to book a trip to Spain very soon!!
Get to know Leanne and Lyle by following them on social media or online. You can find them on Instagram @beachtravelwine or visit their website www.beachtravelwine.com. You will love learning about them and following them as much as I do!
Please think about leaving a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. For more information give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast.
035 - Have you ever been down under? That's right we are going to Australia with our guide, Rick Bamford.
Rick is a native Australian and not only travels within his own country, but he loves traveling all over the world. We touch on some of his travels outside of Australia, but we really focus on a place called Airlie Beach.
I love how Rick cherishes those special moments including the time he was able to see both the sun rising and the moon setting at the same time. He really enjoys those special moments as they come and Airlie Beach is a place to have those moments.
Feel free to give Rick a follow on Instagram @lord_rickster to see more of what Rick is up to.
Thanks for coming along the Journey. Please leave a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. I also want to talk to you!! Let's hear about a place or experience that has meaning to you. Send me a DM on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast or e-mail me jake@journeywithjake.net.
034 - Family trips are some of my fondest memories. This episode dives into a once in a lifetime trip for Brad Singley and his family as they ventured to Switzerland and Sicily this past summer.
I had such a fun time talking to Brad about their family trip this past summer. Brad and his wife, Meg, are parents of 5 children ranging in ages from 17 down to 6. As you can imagine the logistics and challenges of taking 7 people on an international trip. We talk about some of those challenges including trying to drive a large rental van in Sicily down narrow streets.
You will love the experiences they had in Switzerland and just the beauty and majesty of that country. I loved hearing his stories and why this trip meant so much to Brad and his family.
Please follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast . I will be posting more beautiful pictures from Brad's trip on Instagram. Please share this podcast with your friends and family.
033 - Tim Hurst has ran a marathon in all 50 states! That alone is a HUGE accomplishment. He has done all this with an amputated leg using a prosthetic running blade!
What an inspiration Tim Hurst is. I had the chance to visit with Tim to not only talk about his experiences running marathons, but also the challenge of doing this as an amputee. Tim opens up about his experience overcoming a motorcycle accident that left him hospitalized for a year and learning how to walk and run again with a prosthetic leg.
We also dive into his memories and love for traveling and how each state offers something unique. From the forests of Oregon to the oil fields of Texas this episode has it all. Not too mention a marathon run around Disney World in Florida.
For more information about Tim be sure and look up his blog at www.runningonmylastleg.com . There is plenty of great information and photos from Tim's adventures.
I want to hear from you!! Please send me a note to say hi and let me know what your favorite episode is. I love referrals as well so if you know anybody with some great stories let them know I want to talk to them. Send me a DM on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast or send me an email jake@journeywithjake.net.
Remember, it is not always about the destination as it is about the journey!
032 - I was so excited to have the chance to speak with Ashleigh Renard. I found Ashleigh during the early stages of the pandemic as I came across her viral "How to Keep Monogamy Hot" video series. She is also the author of the book, "Swing" which shares the story of her rehabbing her marriage.
This was a very unique one of kind conversation I had with Ashleigh. We spent quite a bit of time talking about who Ashleigh is and how she found freedom and joy in her own life.
Since this is a travel podcast we also jump into the meaning of travel for Ashleigh and how the simple pleasures of travel can make each of us feel as if we are home.
For more information about Ashleigh and her work as a couples coach please visit www.ashleighrenard.com. You can also check her out on Instagram @ashleighrenard
If you like Journey with Jake please think about leaving a review and subscribing to the podcast. Please message me on Instagram @journeywithjake and send me an email for feedback or if you have a special place or experience that has meaning to you!
031 - We all love the tropical paradise that is Hawaii. This episode with my good friend Dave Kahananui is more than just the beauty of this wonderful place. Dave talks about the land, the people, the culture, and the spirit that is Hawaii!
Dave Kahananui is 50% Hawaiian. His Father is 100% Hawaiian which is very rare in this day and age. The connection Dave has to Hawaii is beautiful. He does not live in Hawaii and has only been twice in his 40+ years, but the connection to the land and the people is strong. Dave talks about those feelings he has for the blessed land of Hawaii. Dave is man of faith and has a love for God and in turn feels the spirit of his Hawaiian ancestry.
I am so grateful I was able to connect with Dave to chat about his love for Hawaii. I am thankful to all my listeners. Thank you for listening each and every week. I would love to hear from you. Please send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net with any comments or connect with me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast .
030 - Every now and then you come across a journey or story that really makes you appreciate the opportunities we are all given. This episode with Sean Delaney really makes each of us appreciate our many gifts and blessing.
Sean is a two-time kidney transplant recipient and the gratitude for the gift of life he has been given is evident. Sean has a love for the outdoors and travel. Follow Sean on Instagram @seanny_mcseanerson and you will see plenty of posts and pictures of the beautiful outdoors. Sean is also a fantastic photographer so you will love his posts.
Sean also touches on some of the places he loves to visit including Sedona and the Oregon coast. Places like Sedona and Oregon have special meaning to Sean and I love how he feels about these places.
Sean would love to connect with other like minded individuals who love adventure and the outdoors. Please connect with him on Instagram @seanny_mcseanerson.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. Please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. That really helps me get the word out about Journey with Jake. If you have a place or experience you would like to share please reach out to me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast or send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net.
029 - I had the opportunity to chat with fellow podcaster, James Hammond from The Winging It travel podcast.
James has done a lot of traveling and we could not come up with just one location to talk about it. We settled on Nepal, Japan, and Bolivia. It was fun to hear from James as he discussed each of these locations and why he has such fond memories from 3 totally different places. That is what I love about travel. Every place can be different and every place can be enjoyable and you can find joy in the journey.
Come along with James to the mountains of Nepal, the big cities of Japan, and one of the highest cities in the World, Potosi, in Bolivia!
Please give James Hammond a follow on Instagram @wingingitravelpodcast . You can also find more information on his website www.jameshammond.org .
Please tell your friends about Journey with Jake. I would love to hear from you. Send me an e-mail to jake@journeywithjake.net. You can also give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast. I will post pictures and reels from all of the different episodes.
028 - I had so much fun last week with Dave Preston that I needed to have him on again.
Dave dives into a few more thoughts from the Tour Divide Race including how it felt to have someone from the race lose their life. He also jumps into some other experiences including being hospitalized in Cozumel as well as being hit by an RV.
If you like adventure you will want to listen to part 2 of my conversation with Dave Preston.
Follow Journey with Jake on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast. I post reels and pictures from my guests that you will not want to miss.
027 - The Tour Divide Race is something that I have never heard of before. There are probably a lot of folks out there who have not heard of the Tour Divide Race. This is a 2700+ mile bike race from Canada down to the Mexico border along the Continental Divide. Dave Preston gives a sneak peak into this race.
Although it is a race, the Tour Divide was more than just riding a bike for Dave Preston. In this episode Dave talks about how impactful the Tour Divide has been in his life. It changed his life. You will not want to miss the emotions and the ups and downs that the Tour Divide provides. Every emotion you can think of was experienced by Dave on this adventure. You don't want to miss it.
If you like Journey with Jake please think about leaving a review. That would help me out a lot. Please follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast for more updates and photos from every episode.
026 - There are so many ways to enjoy time together as a family. For Ryan Wynder and his family one of their passions is attending sporting events.
In this episode I speak with Ryan Wynder about all his memories and adventures attending sporting events over the years. Ryan is a fan of all types of sports. Basketball, baseball, football and hockey. It doesn't matter. If there is an event Ryan likes to be there. Attending these events has become a way for the Wynders to enjoy time together.
Ryan shares his memories of some fun experiences along the way like seeing Tom Brady throw his 500th touchdown pass, participating in "Jump Around" at a Wisconsin Badger's football game, and being in Los Angeles to witness the Red Sox win the World Series!! The best part is the memories he has with his family.
Ryan Wynder is also a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. You can hear more from Ryan on his own podcast "The Vegas Therapist" or by visiting www.ryanwynder.com.
Follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast. If you have a place or experience that you would like to share on the podcast please send me a note to jake@journeywithjake.net.
025 - Where the heck is Belize!! That is a question a lot of us ask and even my guest Travis Wilde was not really sure, but he knew it was a place he wanted to take his family for some adventures and memories.
I was fortunate to talk to my friend, Travis Wilde, about this once in a lifetime family trip to Belize. Part of the memories of this trip include just getting to Belize and the hassles with air travel and the chaos that can create.
Belize is full of all kinds of adventures for any of us. Travis gives us a glimpse into both the ocean side of things as well as the jungle part of the trip. I was fully engaged in the stories and memories including a trip through the ATM cave in Belize. Hold onto your hats for this non-stop family adventure of the Wilde Family!!
I want to hear your memories and adventures on Journey with Jake. If you have a place or experience that has meaning to you send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net and let's talk about your memories and experiences on the show.
024 - I can't seem to stay away from Disney. We enjoyed the Castagno's as they told us about their love for Disneyland. Now we are heading across the country to Florida to Disney World!
My guest on Journey with Jake is Daniela from @monorailmagic_ and she shares her love for Disney World, a place that she begin visiting as a child from New York. Daniela takes us back to her childhood and the memories of her time visiting Disney World. She also jumps ahead to to her time as an adult and points out some of her favorite resorts and attractions at Disney World. I love Daniela's passion and love for a place that has such meaning to her since she was a child.
Please give Daniela a follow on Instagram @monorailmagic_ to see some awesome video clips, photos, and great interaction of her time in Disney World. She also points out the Disney styles and shows off all of the fun Disney merchandise and food. Don't miss any of the fun from Daniela.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. Please give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and let me know about a special place or experience that has meaning to you!
023 - Aloha! That's right time to head out across the pacific to Hawaii. This episode about Hawaii is a little bit different as I had the chance to speak with Cole Young who is only 11 years old!
I thought it would be fun to jump into the mind and thoughts of a youngster like Cole. Hawaii is really only part of the story or journey. Speaking to a kid really brought some energy to me and Cole has a lot of energy. It was fun to hear his honest feelings and joy that these trips to Hawaii have brought to him as he has had the chance to visit several times with his family.
You are going to want to keep your eye on Cole. Not only is he just a fun great kid. He is also a talented actor and is performing at the famous Hale Center Theater in Utah as part of the 2022/2023 production of the Little Mermaid. I am going to claim that I had him first before he is too famous to remember!!
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. Follow me on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and send me a DM or email me your thoughts to jake@journeywithjake.net.
022 - Welcome to the Happiest Place on Earth! That's right. We are going to Disneyland. Join Tony and Jen Castagno as they share their love for Disneyland.
Tony and Jen have been going to Disneyland since they were kids. Now as a married couple with kids they continue that tradition of creating memories for themselves and their children.
As someone who loves Disneyland myself it was such a fun time to relive the special magical moments that a place like Disneyland creates. The interaction with characters. The first time seeing your kids go on attractions. The sounds, sights and smells of Disneyland are lasting. Jen and Tony really have a passion for Disneyland and you will hear that as you listen to this episode.
To see more insights into Jen and Tony Castagno and their trips to Disneyland please follow them on Instagram @magichappensfamily.
Thanks for listening to Journey with Jake. I would love to hear from you and talk about the places and experiences that have meaning to you. Please send me a note to jake@journeywithjake.net. I answer all of my emails and would love to touch base!
021 - In this episode we hear from Kyle Harvey and Theresa Hurst from Mountain Town Rambler. We talk all about the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Mountain Town Ramblers is a podcast all about Kyle and Theresa's experiences in mountain towns. We get the inside access of why the Canadian Rocky Mountains and in particular Banff mean so much to Theresa and Kyle. We touch on on all things about Banff and surrounding areas including many hikes and memories they have together and with other loved ones.
They also dive into places to eat, drink and shop. As well as some amazing hotels and places to stay.
Please give Kyle and Theresa a follow on Instagram @mountain_town_ramblers and also give them a listen to their podcast "Mountain Town Ramblers" and their new podcast "Alberta Ramblers."
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. I would love to hear from you. Send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net to say hi.
020 - Welcome to episode #20. In this episode we hear from hiker, Josh Baker, about his many adventures hiking in the state of Washington.
Josh has been hiking since he was a kid. Although he may have complained about hiking when he was young, hiking is now part of who Josh is. Josh loves the adventure and difficulties that hikes can present. He also loves the adventure and unknown of hiking.
Come along and hear the passion in Josh's voice and how much hiking means to him and how much it means to him as a family man. I love these hiking episodes!
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. Please leave me a review on Apple Podcasts.
Episode 20 is here and another 20 are just around the corner of Journey with Jake!
019 - In this episode we go back to one of America's Amusement Parks as we visit Kings Island with the gentlemen from Inside Amusements.
Inside Amusements is your #1 podcast about yesterday, today, and tomorrow's amusements and I was fortunate enough to be able to speak with all 4 members of Inside Amusements. Come along with Joe, Brian, Chris, and Eric as we discuss the their hometown amusement park Kings Island near Cincinnati, Ohio!
This episode goes into the earliest memories of Kings Island from all the members of Inside Amusements and why Kings Island is so special to each of them. Even now into adulthood this place still has meaning to each of them. You will feel like you are there with them as we go to Kings Island!
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. I would love to hear your comments. Please send me an email jake@journeywithjake.net.
018 - In this episode I got to speak with Brooke Wheeler about something that has sparked my curiosity, but I have never participated in. We talk about river rafting, but much more than that.
Brooke loves the outdoors and has found so much joy from her time on the river. Brooke dives into some of the stories from her rafting adventures that make her who she is. Including some wonderful experiences she got to have with her Dad.
As you listen you will find that sometimes our adventures and courses through life can be very difficult, but it is those experiences that shape who we become. I am grateful I learned that from Brooke in this episode. Get ready to be exhausted as she takes us down the river and lets us in on the challenges that we often face. Also get ready to be exhilarated as in the midst of our challenges we find beauty and accomplishment. Come along as we go river rafting with Brooke Wheeler.
I want to hear from you. Please send your comments to jake@journeywithjake.net and tell me your favorite episode or where you would like to go. I would love to have you on the show! Just send me a note.
017 - In this episode I am joined by Shana Butler. Shana was born and raised in New England near Boston, Massachusetts. Shana is an extensive traveler who has been to many different countries as well as so many places across the United States. She talks about her travels on her own podcast Boston and Beyond Pod. She also highlights a lot of her travels on her Instagram account @bost0nandbeyond .
We could have talked about so many places that have meaning to Shana, but we stuck close to home and talked about her love for Boston. Shana dove into the people of Boston and some of the places that she loves to include the North End and Back Bay areas.
As someone who has been to Boston a few times it was such a pleasure and joy to talk with Shana and feel her love for her hometown of Boston and the New England area as whole. Come along on this journey with Shana Butler to Boston!
As always I would love to hear from you about places that have meaning to you. Please reach out to me by email jake@journeywithjake.net. Please leave a review and subscribe to the podcast and tell your friends to come on a Journey with Jake.
016 - In this episode I got the chance to speak with my friend, Matt Harris, about his yearly family trip to upstate New York. Matt is adventurous and goes on many trips every year to include snow boarding and hiking. We could have talked about any of these trips for Matt, but we decided to talk about a special place in New York that is a yearly tradition for the Harris family.
Matt has been going to Tupper Lake, New York since he was 2 years old. We talk about his memories and what this location means to him. Journey with Jake is not always about the exotic, once in a lifetime spots, but often times it is those places that may be closer to home, but have special meaning to each of us. We explore this with Matt Harris about upstate New York.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. If you have a special place or experience that has meaning to you please email me at jake@journeywithjake.net and tell me about it. I would love to have you on the podcast.
If you like the show please leave me a review! Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake.
015 - This episode was especially fun for me since cruising is one of my favorite things to do for a vacation. I had the opportunity to speak with Cruise Vlogger, John Trivedi, better known as "Cruising with JT" to talk about cruising and why cruising has so much meaning to JT.
JT has been on at least 18 cruises up to this point. He touches on his very first cruise and how he became hooked on cruising as well as some special cruises to him including the time he proposed to his girlfriend at the time who is now his wife. You will really get a sense of the passion and excitement he has for cruising.
If you really want to get a senses of what JT is all about please think about giving him a follow on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube. You can find him @cruisingwithjt on Instagram or https://www.youtube.com/c/CruisingWithJT on YouTube. Please give him a follow and tell him hello.
I want to hear about a place or experience that has meaning to you. Please reach out to me by email jake@journeywithjake.net. I would love to hear from you.
014 - On this episode I talk to an old friend of mine, Paul Petersen, about his love for mountain biking and in particular mountain biking the Wasatch Crest. The Wasatch Crest is near his home close to Salt Lake City, Utah.
Paul and I discuss the wonderful gift it is to have so many bike trails and outdoor spaces that he loves so close to home. Paul is at peace and has such a love for the outdoors.
The Wasatch Crest is a challenging mountain bike trail that Paul tries to tackle several times each year. Come along for the ride as Paul dives into this trail to include such areas as "the spine" and "puke hill." You will not want to miss this adventure close to home for Paul Petersen.
Do you like Journey with Jake?? Please leave me a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It really helps me get out the word about Journey with Jake. Any comments or if you want to be on Journey with Jake and share your experiences please send me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net.
013 - On this episode I talk to you an old friend from hometown of Willcox, Arizona. Troy Byrd joins me as we discuss a 10,000 mile road trip he took several years ago. He hit all states east of the Mississippi river and several more states on the west side of the Mississippi as well.
A big part of this road trip for Troy which he terms the "Tour of Champions" takes him to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. Troy timed his trip just right to be at the Pro Football Hall of Fame during the enshrinement ceremony. You will be fascinated at the connections Troy makes and the stories and memories he created from his time at the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Troy dives into more than just the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but it is apparent how much he loves sports and how this trip has meaning to Troy. Even if sports is not your thing you will enjoy the views from my friend Troy Byrd.
I want to hear from you!! Let me know what you think of the podcast. Send me a note to jake@journeywithjake.net. If you have a place or experience that has meaning to you I want to hear about it. Please reach out and let's talk about it on Journey with Jake.
012 - In this episode we explore the world of van life with my guests Tyler and Molly LaFontaine. Tyler and Molly spent time traveling to all of the lower 48 states in their converted van.
This was a great conversation with two passionate people who really enjoy their time traveling by van. You will be inspired and smile as they discuss some of their favorite parts of the country to explore including the Southwest, Montana, and the Carolinas. They also talk about fun roadside attractions as well as finding things to do in your own backyard. You will not want to miss this fun and enjoyable conversation I had with Molly and Tyler. I know I say this about every episode, but this was truly one of my favorites.
You can find more information about Tyler and Molly on Instagram @tylerplusmolly as well as their YouTube Channel Tyler + Molly.
Thank you for listening to Journey with Jake. I am so happy you are here. Please send me an email to let me know what your favorite episode is and what you are hoping to hear on the podcast. You can email me at jake@journeywithjake.net.
011 - Talk about a wild adventure!! In this episode I was fortunate enough to sit down with Mike Jennings to talk about his trip traveling across Asia on a motorcycle.
Mike is from Australia and has done quite a bit of traveling all over the world. We look into one of those adventures which involved motorcycling across China and some of the stories and experiences Mike had along the way. Mike opens up about the value of being kind and how that can propel you along with experiences from how kindness paid off for him in a foreign country.
If you enjoy great stories and are excited about endless adventures you will want to listen to this episode.
Please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Also if you want to be on the show please let me know by sending me an email to jake@journeywithjake.net. Remember it's not always about the destination as it is about the journey!
010 - We all face fears and challenges throughout our lives. In this episode my guest, Shelby Mann, talks about overcoming her fears to be a solo hiker in Colorado. Shelby dives into some of the aspects it takes to be a solo female hiker.
Shelby and I discuss the safety aspects of solo hiking. She also talks about some of her favorite memories of hiking including her love for Rocky Mountain National Park. We also talk about some of her encounters with wildlife on the trail as well as what it means to hike and what goes on in her mind as she hikes by herself in the beautiful state of Colorado.
Shelby Mann is the owner of Ground Up Adventures which is all about helping you become a better solo hiker. Please follow Shelby on Instagram @groundupadventures. You will love this episode about what it takes to be a solo hiker and why it means so much to Shelby Mann.
Please subscribe to the podcast. Any comments or questions please email me jake@journeywithjake.net.
009 - On this episode I got to spend time with my cousin Dan Spindle talking about a place that has special meaning to both of us. We talk about Colorado and our childhood memories of spending time in Colorado and what it means to us.
Dan has done a lot or research on our family and their lives in Colorado. This episode really taps into why Colorado means so much to us and it is because of our family ties to this beautiful state.
Join us as we talk about the high country of Colorado and share stories and memories from our childhood and why Colorado is such a wonderful place.
Dan Spindle is a morning news anchor for KSL in Salt Lake City, Utah. You can find more information from Dan on Facebook (Dan Spindle KSL) and Instagram (@danspindle15).
Please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review. If you have a place or experience that has meaning to you and want to talk about it with me on the podcast please send me an email. I can be reached at jake@journeywithjake.net.
008 - I was blessed to have the opportunity to speak to one of the big influences in my life, Chip Franks. I found Chip through the Miracle Morning Community and have participated in some of his challenges aimed at living a better life. Through this connection with Chip I have found his love for travel and had the chance to ask him about his once in a lifetime trip to Italy.
Chip is very thoughtful and wanted to do something special for his wife, Laura, on their 20th anniversary. We dive into the details of this experience and his surprise gift of a trip to Italy.
You will enjoy this conversation as Chip takes us to Italy and describes the train rides, special moments, and just the overwhelming peace and appreciation of this country. If you want to feel uplifted listen to Chip as he talks about his Tour of Italy!
For more information about Chip Franks please visit www.chipfranks.com and listen to the ChipChat podcast.
Any questions or comments regarding this podcast please email me at jake@journeywithjake.net. I am happy to answer all emails.
007 - On this episode I was able to reconnect with some old friends, Misty MacGregor and Michelle Trias, about their trips to Iceland.
Misty and Michelle took separate trips to Iceland so we get to enjoy two different perspectives. Misty enjoyed a Mother/Daughter trip while Michelle spent time with her husband Larry. Both Misty and Michelle gave us some great stories and spoke about getting out of our comfort zones. We also talk about the Blue Lagoon and what that entails. Misty spoke about seeing the Northern Lights with her Mother and Michelle spoke about dipping in every hot spring she could . You can sense the energy from both Misty and Michelle as we talk about their time in Iceland.
This is so much fun! Please think about subscribing to the podcast and leaving a review. I would really appreciate it!!
006 - We continue our journey talking about the outdoors with my guests Matt and Cheryl Schoss. This episode takes us to Zion National Park in southern Utah. Matt and Cheryl have some great information on their YouTube channel "Were in the Rockies". It was through this channel and my own searching for information about Yellowstone National Park that I found Matt and Cheryl.
Zion National Park is a special place for Matt and Cheryl. It is a place that feels like home to them. Sit back and enjoy some of their stories and memories of why Zion has such meaning to them. So many memories including making a stop at Krispy Kreme doughnuts on the way to Zion.
Matt and Cheryl also discuss some of the hikes at Zion and what makes it so special including a few scary moments with their children. Zion is a hiker's paradise, but isn't only for hikers. It is a place everyone can enjoy. I also love Matt's perspective about "looking up" in Zion.
For more information about any of the National Parks out west please visit We're in the Rockies YouTube channel as well as their website www.wereintherockies.com and you can find them on Instagram @wereintherockies. They have some great information that will really help you as you prepare to visit any of the National Parks out west.
Please subscribe to Journey with Jake and leave a review! You can also find information about the podcast on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast !
005 - I had the opportunity to speak with Skyler Harrison the host of Hunt the West podcast to talk about his experiences and love for hunting.
Journey with Jake is not always about particular locations or places we go. In this case hunting can take place at a variety of locations and spots. Skyler goes into his reasons for hunting and the preparation that it takes. We get to enjoy a few stories and experiences of Skyler along the way including feeling closer to God through his time outdoors. He also shares how seeing others learn to hunt and being with them for the first time can be just as satisfying as hunting himself.
Even if you don't hunt you will enjoy this fun conversation I had with Skyler Harrison. We can all gain some insight from each other and our experiences. I learned a lot and gained a greater appreciation for hunting and my guest Skyler.
Please subscribe to the podcast and leave me a review. If you have a place or experience that has meaning to you and you would like to share it on Journey with Jake please send me an email. I can be reached at jake@journeywithjake.net. Remember it's not always about the destination as it is about the journey!
004 - On episode 4 of Journey with Jake we talk with Emily Cooper about Sicily and also her experiences with solo traveling. Emily is a travel blogger and has traveled quite extensively and has some great content on Instagram.
We begin our conversation talking about Sicily. Emily's ancestors are Italian and this trip is one she will never forget. It took a process for Emily to make this trip to Sicily and now she has so many wonderful memories. Emily also takes a lot of solo trips. We dive into the world of solo traveling and discuss expectations, safety, and hostels. All in all my conversation with Emily was both entertaining and informative. Please join Emily Cooper and I on this journey to Sicily and the world of solo traveling.
You can find some great content from Emily by visiting her Instagram page. Please visit @emilyeatsandexplores for some great content on solo traveling and more.
If you like what you hear please think about subscribing and leaving a review! Thank you so much for joining me every other week on Journey with Jake!
003 - In this episode we escape to the tropical paradise of the Cayman Islands. I am joined by my friend Linda Bruns to talk about her love for the Cayman Islands and her love of life!
Linda has family ties to the Cayman Islands and spends quite a bit of time on these beautiful islands. She takes us through experiences with her family to include a family hike and bat caves. Not only do we talk about the Cayman Islands we also tap into mindset and attitude and the idea that we can be on vacation everyday of our lives. Come along on this journey with my good friend Linda and feel her love not only for the Cayman Islands but for life!
Linda is the Owner of Women have needs, too! Which is all about the the Inspiring and Empowering of Women. You can find more information at www.womenhaveneedstoo.com and I would suggest visiting the WHNT TV link to watch some of her inspiring videos with other women covering the areas of Health, Wealth, and Mindset.
Feel free to visit www.journeywithjake.net for some pictures of the Cayman Islands courtesy of Linda. If you enjoy this please think about subscribing to the podcast and leaving a great review.
If there is some place that has special meaning to you and you would like to share it on my podcast please let me know. You can contact me by email at jake@journeywithjake.net.
002 - Welcome back to Journey with Jake! In this episode I speak with Nick Addesso about his trip to Colombia in South America including a visit to Lake Gautavita where rumor has it the treasure of El Dorado can be found.
Nick talks about his experiences with his future family in Colombia as well as the culture and food of this country.
I hope you enjoy our visit about Colombia from the perspective of my friend Nick Addesso. Join me on my journey by subscribing to the podcast!
For more information and some pictures from Nick please visit:
www.journeywithjake.net
001 - Welcome to Journey with Jake. Jake Bushman gives a quick introduction to the podcast and what it is all about.
I also speak with David Bushman about Carowinds theme park in North/South Carolina. David explains a little bit about the park including some of their great attractions and explains why Carowinds has meaning to him and his family.
Thank you for joining us on Journey with Jake. If you would like to hear other stories and places we will visit please hit subscribe. We would love to have you along for a Journey with Jake!