Inspire Campfire

This week, in part 2 of our Everest Base Camp series, we're honored to welcome three extraordinary adventurers from our recent Everest Base Camp trek: Keith Davis, a real estate investor from Eugene, Oregon; Clare Brown, an upland ecologist from Scotland; and Sam Van Keulen, a real estate investor based in Burgundy, France. United by their spirit of adventure, these three individuals joined host Scott Wurtzbacher on an unforgettable journey through the Himalayas.Our guests take us through their transformative experiences trekking to Mount Everest Base Camp, where they joined Paralympic gold medalist Karen Darke in her remarkable journey. They describe those pivotal moments facing the challenges of high altitude, mechanical issues with Karen's specialized bike, and the breathtaking majesty of the world's highest mountain range. What began as a physical challenge quickly evolved into something deeper—a profound experience of human connection, present-moment awareness, and spiritual growth.In this episode, we explore the meaning of perseverance beyond its physical demands, the unique spirit of the Nepalese people, and how this journey became a catalyst for personal transformation for each guest. Keith shares the emotional journey of honoring his sister's memory, Clare discovers her ability to be truly present, and Sam reflects on finding life's true value beyond material possessions. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding purpose through challenge, embracing adventure one step at a time, and what it truly means to travel with an open heart.

This week, we're honored to welcome Olga Bak, friend and advisor to Travel Nepal Himalaya's Treks, the local guide company that helped our group navigate the challenging journey to Mount Everest base camp. Developing an early connection with Nepal during her first trek in 2013, Olga's spontaneous "yes" to adventure evolved into something deeper—a calling to build bridges between travelers and this extraordinary Himalayan nation.Olga takes us on a journey through her transformation from first-time trekker to passionate advocate for Nepal. She describes that pivotal moment when she climbed a 4,000-meter peak at 3 AM to witness the sunrise, feeling surrounded by stars so close "it really did feel like we could just reach and grab them like apples from trees." That initial experience sparked what would become a lifelong mission to help others understand Nepal not just as a destination for mountain views, but as a place of profound spiritual and personal transformation.In this episode, we explore the meaning behind "Nepal: Never Ending Peace And Love," the unique character of the Himalayan landscape, and how Olga's relationship with guide Badri has created opportunities to support local communities. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding purpose through saying yes to adventure, embracing discomfort as a path to growth, and what it truly means to experience the transformative power of the mountains.

This week, we're honored to welcome Rue McKenrick, professional backpacker, conservationist, and the visionary behind the American Perimeter Trail—a 14,000-mile route that circumnavigates the continental United States. Growing up with a passion for both backpacking and conservation, Rue's journey began with a simple idea: to be part of something bigger than himself and to create a lasting impact on the land he loves.Rue takes us on an epic journey from the spark of inspiration—born on a ski lift in Oregon—to the reality of walking the perimeter of the country, scouting a route that would become one of the most ambitious hiking projects in America. He shares the challenges of forging a new trail, the years of hesitation and self-doubt, and the pivotal moment when he finally committed to the adventure, despite limited resources and the uncertainty of what lay ahead.In this episode, we explore the deeper purpose behind the American Perimeter Trail: not just as a test of endurance, but as a mission to establish a protected corridor for land and natural resources, connect communities, and make outdoor recreation accessible across the nation. Rue discusses the profound connection between recreation and conservation, the importance of creating new opportunities for people to experience nature—especially in regions lacking public trails—and the economic and intrinsic value that protected wild spaces bring to communities.Join us for a moving conversation about overcoming fear, embracing solitude, and the transformative power of following a calling that refuses to be ignored. Rue's story is one of resilience, vision, and the belief that ordinary people can create extraordinary change—one step, and one mile, at a time. Discover what it truly means to dream big, protect what matters, and find your purpose on the trail.

This week, we're honored to welcome Zack Luttrell, an entrepreneur, adventurer, and community builder from Charlotte, North Carolina. Growing up with an event planner mother, Zack developed an early talent for bringing people together that eventually evolved into something deeper—a calling to create authentic experiences that connect people through shared passion.Zack takes us on a journey through his transformation from corporate employee to visionary business owner. He describes that pivotal moment when, after losing his job during the recession, he turned his casual hobby of organizing Panthers fan events into a thriving community called Roaring Riot. What began as coordinating travel packages for friends to away games soon blossomed into a movement with thousands of members, dedicated tailgates, and international travel experiences that players themselves recognize from the field.In this episode, we explore his latest breathtaking venture—purchasing and restoring the historic SV Mandalay, a 102-year-old sailing cruise ship with a remarkable pedigree that once belonged to E.F. Hutton and his wife Marjorie Merriweather Post. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about betting on yourself, the importance of authentic human connection, and what it truly means to build community around the things you love—whether it's football fandom or sailing the Caribbean seas in board shorts instead of suits.

This week, we're honored to welcome Louis Alexander, a Guinness World Record-holding adventurer and endurance athlete from London. At just 25 years old, Louis has already achieved feats that most of us can only dream of—running marathons on all seven continents and swimming marathons in all seven seas. His journey has taken him from the frozen landscapes of Antarctica to the sweltering waters of the Arabian Sea, testing the limits of human endurance while raising tens of thousands of dollars for charity.Louis takes us on a journey through his transformation from an ordinary young man to a full-time professional adventurer. He shares the pivotal moment that sparked his passion for adventure—climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in honor of his late grandfather, Captain Rick Taylor, who inspired his mission to raise awareness for dementia. That first adventure ignited a fire within him, leading to a relentless pursuit of challenges that push the boundaries of physical and mental endurance.In this episode, we explore the mindset and grit required to take on such extraordinary challenges, the lessons Louis has learned from the world's most extreme environments, and the profound sense of purpose that drives him. From the Amazon Rainforest to the Arctic Circle, Louis shares stories of triumph, struggle, and the power of finding meaning through adventure.Join us for an inspiring conversation about embracing risk, building resilience, and using adventure as a force for good.

This week, we're honored to welcome Stephan Kesting, adventurer, firefighter, jiujitsu practitioner, and author of the new book Perseverance: Life and Death in the Subarctic.Stephan shares the gripping story of his thousand-mile solo canoe expedition through the Canadian Subarctic—a journey he undertook after recovering from a life-threatening illness and a kidney transplant.Stephan recounts how a near-death experience reshaped his perspective on life, inspiring him to finally pursue a decades-long dream of exploring one of the most remote and unforgiving regions of the world. From battling treacherous rapids and harsh weather to a chilling encounter with a bear, Stephan's story is one of courage, resilience, and calculated risk-taking. He reflects on the lessons he learned about perseverance, risk management, and the fleeting nature of time.Join us for an inspiring and raw conversation about chasing your dreams, overcoming adversity, and finding meaning in the wilderness.

This week, we're honored to welcome Bryan Murphy, creator and host of the popular podcast and social media brand "Hawaii's Best." Growing up in Southern California, Bryan developed an early fascination with the Hawaiian Islands that eventually evolved into something deeper—a calling to share Hawaii's magic with the world.Bryan takes us on a journey through his transformation from casual tourist to passionate advocate for responsible travel to Hawaii. He describes that pivotal moment stepping off the plane for the first time, breathing in the warm Hawaiian air, and feeling an immediate connection that would shape his future.That initial visit sparked what would become a lifelong mission to help others experience Hawaii not just as a destination, but as a way of life centered around the spirit of aloha.In this episode, we explore the profound meaning of aloha beyond its marketing use, the unique character of each Hawaiian island, and how Bryan's media brand has become a bridge between visitors and locals.Join us for a deep and moving conversation about finding purpose through passion, embracing adventure one step at a time, and what it truly means to travel with aloha.

This week, we're honored to welcome Niki DiGaetano, a death doula from Salt Lake City, Utah, who has dedicated her life to supporting those at the end of theirs. Niki had long felt called to work with the dying, but it wasn't until a 2022 section hike of the Appalachian Trail that she found the confidence to fully embrace that path.After her journey on the trail, she told friends, "If I can find work that allows me to listen to people's stories—the good, the bad, the ugly, traumatic, and triumphant—it would be the truest work of my soul." That realization led her to become a death doula, offering emotional, spiritual, and practical support to those facing life's final transition.In this episode, we explore the profound connection between living and dying, the wisdom nature imparts, and how Niki's time on the trail shaped her approach to compassionate care. Join us for a deep and moving conversation about what it truly means to live well—and die well.

This week, we're excited to welcome filmmaker Zach Carver for an in-depth look at a journey fueled by tradition, exploration, and sheer self-reliance. At the heart of our conversation is the Race to Alaska—a grueling, human- and wind-powered challenge through North America's Inside Passage. With no engines, no support crews, and barely any rules, this race demands unwavering grit and determination from its competitors.Zach Carver, the award-winning writer and director of the documentary Race to Alaska, spent over seven years capturing the essence of this extraordinary event. With more than 70,000 shots, he masterfully crafted a gripping tale of adventure and resilience. But his role wasn't just behind the camera—Zach fully immersed himself in the race, becoming part of the story as he documented the raw spirit of those daring enough to take on the challenge. Join us as we explore the making of this remarkable film and the relentless human drive that defines the Race to Alaska.

This week, we're thrilled to welcome Oscar Newson-Smith, a visionary changemaker with an extraordinary story of purpose, resilience, and impact. Oscar is the founder of The Racso Project, a social enterprise dedicated to revitalizing Turkey's economy and infrastructure in the wake of three devastating earthquakes in 2023.To amplify awareness and support for this critical mission, Oscar has undertaken an awe-inspiring journey: walking over 2,600 miles from London, England to Ankara, Turkey. His route spans 12 countries, weaving through forests, mountain ranges, bustling cities, and quiet towns, all fueled by a deep commitment to inspire hope and drive change.Join us for a powerful conversation about courage, personal responsibility, and the boundless potential of one person's determination to transform lives.

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

This week on the podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Craig O'Boyle! Craig, a real estate entrepreneur from Colorado Springs, Colorado, lives by the mantra "work hard, play hard." Each year, he organizes a unique adventure for his close-knit group of friends, the self-dubbed “Outdoorsy Guys” (OGs). The twist? Craig is the only one who knows the destination. The rest of the crew shows up at the airport, ready to embrace the unknown.In this episode, we dive into their unconventional approach to travel, the bonds forged through shared adventure, and the magic of stepping out of your comfort zone. It's a conversation about trust, spontaneity, and the joy of the journey.

This week on the podcast, we're bringing you a powerful episode centered on compassionate leadership, belonging, social awareness, moral courage, and driving social change. These values are at the heart of the Charlotte Unity Project by the North Carolina Outward Bound School—a transformative initiative that begins with a free 7-day wilderness program for 48 high school students from 8 diverse schools across Charlotte, North Carolina. In this program, students develop technical skills, engage in deep, meaningful conversations, and cultivate leadership and problem-solving abilities. Upon returning to school, they're encouraged to join their high school's Unity Club to share their insights, inspire peers, and make impactful contributions to their communities. You might remember episode 44, where Charlotte Program Manager Alexys Woods shared her journey with Outward Bound and her leadership of the Unity Project. Today, we're thrilled to welcome three incredible recent participants of the program. These inspiring high school student leaders will share their transformative experiences and the impact the Unity Project has had on their lives.

This week on the podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Jeff Johns, a lifelong adventurer, filmmaker, photographer, and writer who has spent nearly half his life traveling the globe and living abroad. Jeff's journey is an inspiring tale of embracing discomfort and finding joy through world travel. From assisting in recovery efforts in Thailand after the 2004 tsunami to creating hit television shows for Discovery Channel, National Geographic, and the BBC, his experiences are nothing short of extraordinary.Currently based in the Netherlands with his wife and daughters, Jeff is also the co-creator of What Doesn't Suck, an adventure travel platform, and the author of Jet Lag Junkie, a memoir that captures the lessons, love, and meaning he's discovered through his global explorations. Tune in as we dive into his incredible story, his passion for exploring the unknown, and the power of stepping outside your comfort zone.

This week on the Inspire Campfire podcast, we're excited to welcome Mary "Newfound" Leavines, a storyteller, writer, photographer, and the owner of a popular hostel for thru-hikers along the Appalachian Trail. Mary's journey to the AT began with an inciting incident that set her on a path of self-discovery—one that led her to thru-hike the trail in 2022. During her time on the trail, she not only reconnected with her inner self but also rewrote her own story. Now, back home in Franklin, North Carolina, Mary has purchased a hostel to stay closely connected to the trail and provide a supportive space for fellow hikers. Join us as we dive into Mary's transformative adventure and explore how the call to adventure often begins with a single, life-changing moment. Her journey is a testament to how embracing the unknown can help us discover what truly matters.

This week on the Inspire Campfire podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Richard De Gouveia, a man who has dedicated his life to sharing his profound connection with animals, the environment, and the Earth. As the founder of Arc Earth, Richard leads transformative safari experiences that delve deep into Africa's ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Following a life-changing event, Richard left behind financial security and a traditional career to pursue his passion for the African bush. Today, his team at Arc Earth offers photographic and private safaris, as well as purpose-driven conservation trips that inspire a deeper understanding of the natural world. Splitting his time between Portugal, where he lives with his wife and two sons, and the African wilderness, Richard spends over 200 days a year guiding unforgettable journeys. His story of courage, connection, and purpose will leave you inspired to explore your own calling. Join us as we hear how Richard is truly living his purpose and helping others connect with the magic of nature.

This week on the Inspire Campfire podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Chris Watson, the voice behind Adventure Diaries, a podcast that brings authentic tales of adventure, exploration, and the natural world to life. Chris joins us to explore the transformative power of storytelling and how sharing our journeys can ignite new adventures, inspire others to take action, and create a lasting legacy of exploration. Based in Glasgow, Scotland, where he lives with his wife and daughter, Chris is a passionate adventurer, certified paddle sports instructor, and Royal Yachting Association license holder who loves immersing himself in the great outdoors. From epic quests to everyday encounters, Chris is a true outdoor enthusiast and travel aficionado, bringing tales of the natural world to life in every story he tells. Join us as we uncover the stories that inspire and the spirit that fuels the fire of exploration!

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

This week on the podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Kristoff Druva, a passionate wildlife photographer from Denver, Colorado, who uses his lens to capture the beauty and fragility of nature. As the founder of Kristoff Druva Photography, Kristoff's work tells compelling stories that raise awareness about wildlife conservation and habitat protection.His photography journeys have taken him across the U.S., where he's witnessed a rich diversity of wildlife and ecosystems. Kristoff partners with conservation nonprofits to shine a light on the delicate balance between nature and human impact, aiming to inspire us all to protect our natural world.

This week on Inspire Campfire, we're joined by Ty, an adventurer from Long Island, New York, who has made full-time travel his way of life. With extreme intentionality, Ty embraces every moment, living in the now while having a clear vision for each stage of his life. After graduating from business school, Ty found himself at a crossroads—get traditional work experience or take a leap and travel the world. He chose the latter, knowing that life is short, and you only get to live your twenties once.Tune in to hear Ty's stories of spontaneous travel, seizing opportunities, and his philosophy that there's always something amazing happening somewhere in the world. You'll be inspired to embrace your own adventure and make the most of every moment!

This week, we're joined by Lauren from @YorAdventures, a wife and mom of four boys from Eugene, Oregon, who discovered firsthand how transformative nature can be for mental health. When the pandemic hit in 2020, she quickly realized that being cooped up indoors was taking a toll on her family, so they made a bold decision: they bought a travel trailer and hit the road in search of adventure and healing. Over the course of five months, they visited 48 of the continental U.S. states.Now, years later, Lauren reflects on the incredible places they explored, the memories they made, and the lessons learned along the way. Tune in as she shares her inspiring story of embracing the great outdoors and how it changed her family's life.

This week, we're thrilled to welcome Anita Phillips, a remarkable individual who embodies the "work hard, play hard" philosophy. For 20 years, Anita thrived as a corporate lawyer in the bustling cities of London, Paris, and Hong Kong. But when she wasn't navigating high-powered boardrooms, she was exploring the world with just a backpack and a tent. Now an executive coach, Anita calls the foothills of Mont Blanc in the French Alps home, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, two cats, and a brood of chickens.Anita recently tackled the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc, the pinnacle of trail races, covering 176 kilometers of grueling terrain across the French, Italian, and Swiss Alps, with a breathtaking 10,000 meters of elevation gain. At 48, new to trail running and with only a handful of races to her name, Anita defied the odds by securing a top ten finish in her age group. She's living proof that with determination, anything is possible.

This week, we bring you the extraordinary tale of Sophie Matterson, a woman who left behind the familiar to embark on a life-changing journey across Australia with five wild camels. Hailing from Flinders Ranges in South Australia, Sophie traded her career in TV and film for an adventure that would reshape her life. What started as a brief break from her job in 2016 turned into an incredible 13-month odyssey. After turning 30, she set out to walk from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, traversing the vast, arid heart of Australia. Sophie shares the highs, lows, and life-altering lessons of her epic trek, as captured in her award-winning memoir, The Crossing: A Memoir of Love, Adventure, and Finding Your Own Path. Join us as we dive into her remarkable story of courage, self-discovery, and the pursuit of purpose.

In this week's episode, we explore the journey of embracing the unknown and finding the courage to face life's greatest challenges. Our guest, Tyler Stallings—known as the Moto Photo Guy—has made a career of diving headfirst into thrilling situations that require unwavering trust in the outcome.Joining us from Reno, Nevada, Tyler is an adventure photographer and digital creator who not only captures the thrill of the moment but lives it himself. Inspired by the film Into the Wild, Tyler recently embarked on a breathtaking five-week solo motorcycle journey from Reno to the Arctic Ocean. Along the way, he documented extraordinary adventures, including a daring project filming cliff divers in Oregon.Tune in as we discuss Tyler's fearless approach to life, his incredible adventures, and how he finds peace in moments of uncertainty.

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

This week, we're exploring how the wilderness offers a powerful chance for transformation and self-discovery. Nature provides the freedom to embrace new identities without judgment, and for hikers, this often takes shape through the tradition of trail names. Our guest, Carly Rae Brunault—better known on the trail as "Hippea"—joins us to share her experience. Carly is the author of Trail Name Tales, a captivating collection of stories about the remarkable people she encountered while thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail.A professional photographer from Western Massachusetts, Carly embarked on this challenging journey as part of her healing process after a personal tragedy. Along the way, she not only found her own path to recovery but also inspired countless others with her story. Join us as we dive into her journey of healing, connection, and adventure.

Join us for an inspiring journey to the highest peaks on every continent, known as the Seven Summits. Our guest, Bo Parfet, an adventurer from Kalamazoo, Michigan, has stood at the summit of each one and is here to share the powerful lessons he learned along the way. Bo, a member of the prestigious Explorers Club, is also a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and author of several books, including Die Trying and The Precipice of Life.With master's degrees from the University of Michigan and Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management, Bo brings a relentless drive to make a difference in the world. Tune in as we explore his incredible achievements and the profound insights gained from pushing the boundaries of human endurance.

In this week's episode, we dive into the transformative journey from survival to success and, ultimately, significance. Our guest is Creek Stewart, a renowned wilderness survival instructor, author, and television host. With over 20 books on survival and preparedness under his belt, Creek is also the go-to survival expert for The Weather Channel, where he's hosted popular shows like Could You Survive? with Creek Stewart, SOS: How to Survive, and Fat Guys in the Woods. Creek's story is one of remarkable personal transformation, where his deep connection with nature played a pivotal role in his path from surviving to thriving. Tune in to hear how Creek's experiences in the wild have shaped his life and how they can inspire you on your own journey.

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

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

In today's episode, we explore how following your own call to adventure can inspire others to take action in their own lives. We're thrilled to welcome back Josh Sutton, our very first guest on the Inspire Campfire podcast. Josh returns to share updates on his incredible journey since he, his wife, and their five-year-old son, Harvey, thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2021. Harvey's achievement as the youngest person to complete the trail at such a young age continues to inspire many.Their life-changing 7-month hike has opened doors to new adventures, including the creation of a documentary about their time on the trail. Join us as Josh recounts their experiences and the impact it has had on their lives and beyond.

In this episode, we delve into the art of breaking through barriers and embracing new perspectives. Our guest today, Saray Khumalo, exemplifies how the sky is not the limit—it's just the beginning. Joining us from Johannesburg, South Africa, Saray is an award-winning mountaineer, Guinness World Record holder, author, speaker, coach, and philanthropist.In 2019, after three determined attempts, Saray made history by becoming the first Black African woman to summit Mount Everest. Her journey is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the power of dreams. Tune in to hear Saray's incredible story and learn how you, too, can reach beyond your limits.

This week's episode is all about parenting adventurous kids, and we're literally taking the conversation to new heights. Our guest, Joe Evermore, is the father of three incredibly adventurous children, including his oldest, Sam, who at age 8, became the youngest person to ascend El Capitan, the iconic 3,000-foot rock face in Yosemite National Park.Sam's remarkable climb has garnered media attention worldwide, with features on the Today Show, Fox, and CNN, among others. Joe and his wife Ann have a unique philosophy on raising strong and courageous kids, and they truly practice what they preach alongside their children. This is an eye-opening story that challenges conventional ideas of what's possible.

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

In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome two extraordinary guests. First, we have David Allen, the mastermind behind the renowned Getting Things Done (GTD) system. His influential book, Getting Things Done, has been translated into over 28 languages and has empowered millions to organize their lives. The story behind GTD is truly captivating.Joining us as well is Julie Ireland, Scott Wurtzbacher's coach from GTD Focus, the exclusive provider of individual GTD coaching in the US and Canada.It was the GTD system and a handshake from David years ago that inspired our host, Scott Wurtzbacher, to create this podcast along with a few synchronicities. Tune in to hear more about the journey and insights from these two amazing guests.

Today, we delve into the fascinating world of hitchhiking, also known as thumbing. Our guest, Daniel Shachory from Los Angeles, California, has embraced the thumb life since 2013, embarking on over 10 epic long-distance hitchhiking journeys across North and South America, Africa, Europe, and Asia.Tune in as we explore his incredible adventures and gain insights into the unique experiences and challenges of hitchhiking around the globe.

In this episode, we're journeying to Hawaii to explore the art and science of traditional Polynesian voyaging, guided by the experienced Bruce Blankenfeld. For over 600 years, the canoes that originally brought the first Hawaiians to their island home had vanished—until the 1970s, when artist Herb Kāne envisioned and built Hōkūleʻa, a double-hulled sailing canoe modeled after traditional designs. Bruce embarked on his first voyage with Hōkūleʻa in 1977 during training sails and has since navigated tens of thousands of miles across Polynesia, the Pacific, and the world, serving as both captain and navigator on Hōkūleʻa and its sister canoe, Hikianalia.Bruce also oversees the repair and maintenance of both canoes and plays a crucial role as Voyaging Director and Board Member of the Polynesian Voyaging Society. Join us for a captivating story of adventure, resilience, and the enduring spirit of Hawaiian tradition.

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

Welcome to another inspiring episode. This week, we're thrilled to have Justin Rosales from Charlotte, North Carolina, share his incredible journey. Discover how a small-town boy came to believe that all things are possible and embarked on a life journey to prove it. Justin is a strategist at Elevation Church, a Christian entrepreneur, and co-author of "Becoming the Iceman," a book he wrote with the legendary Wim Hof. Justin's adventures have taken him to many far-off places with Wim as his guide, where he tested his limits and pushed past boundaries.Tune in to hear a remarkable story about truly getting to know yourself through adversity and the realization that we're all capable of so much more than we ever imagined. This episode is a testament to the power of belief, resilience, and the extraordinary potential within us all.

Join us for another inspiring episode as we sit down with Giovanni Rocco, the Press Secretary for the United States Department of the Interior. Gio, as his friends call him, was born in Chile and immigrated to the United States at the age of nine. His impressive political career has led him to a pivotal role where he communicates on crucial issues such as climate change, clean energy, and the conservation of America's lands and waters. Discover the insights and experiences of someone who dedicates his work to protecting our wildlife and natural resources at the highest level. Don't miss this engaging conversation!

Join us for an inspiring episode as we sit down with Jim Keyes, a true modern-day Renaissance man. With a resume that includes leadership roles in globally renowned Fortune 500 companies, such as Blockbuster, Inc. and 7-Eleven, Inc., Jim Keyes brings a wealth of experience to the table. But his story doesn't stop there – Jim is also a philanthropist, educator, artist, musician, and even a commercial pilot.In this episode, we delve into Jim's latest book, Education Is Freedom: The Future Is in Your Hands. With a lifelong commitment to both education and adventure, Jim shares his insights on what true freedom means and how education plays a pivotal role in achieving it. Through his diverse experiences, Jim sheds light on the importance of embracing knowledge and fostering a mindset of continuous growth.

In this inspiring episode, we're joined by Paul Aubert, a self-proclaimed Frenchie from Paris, France who now resides in Las Vegas, Nevada, and is one of the founders of Noovo - a company that specializes in building high-end custom vans for van lifers. Paul and his dedicated team of entrepreneurs have created a thriving business and it all started through a spirit of adventure and the bringing to life of Natasha, their legendary hotel bus that has traversed 16 countries, carrying 60 eager adventurers, covering 26,000 miles across the Americas.

Embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery with Tom Turcich, who set out on a quest for meaning by walking around the world. In 2022, Tom achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the 10th person on record to complete this epic journey. Spanning 38 countries over the course of 7 years and covering a staggering 28,000 miles, his adventure is nothing short of extraordinary. What makes it even more incredible is that Tom was accompanied by his loyal companion, Savannah, the first dog to ever walk around the world. Join us for a captivating conversation as we delve into the inspiring tale of their global odyssey.

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

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

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

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

In this episode, we're joined by Sarah Goldman to talk about the sport of Adventure Racing, which is highlighted in the new movie, Arthur the King starring Mark Wahlberg. Sarah is the Community Programs Director for the North Carolina Outward Bound School, who has proudly served as a firefighter, police officer, and adventure racing participant and coach. The Adventure Racing World Championship takes teams on a journey in exotic locations through over 700 km of trekking, running, mountain biking, kayaking, rope work, and navigation.

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

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

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