Podcasts about armchair explorer

Every month on Pathways, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton crack open a few stories, play their favorite clips, and take you on a whirlwind preview of what's coming up this month on Armchair Explorer. It's part travel hangout, part behind-the-scenes, and a whole lot of part “wait, you did what?” Special Offer: we've revived our NEWSLETTER! (scroll to the bottom of our homepage to signup) And contact us for a free copy of our fearless leader Aaron Millar's ebook:  The 50 Greatest Wonders of the World Award-winning travel journalist Aaron Millar reveals the greatest wonders of the world and the insider secrets on how to see them. From where to catch the perfect sunrise over the Grand Canyon to how to swim up to the very edge of the Victoria Falls, this is a road map for discovering the greatest experiences of your life. 

We're back for part two of our Discover series on the less travelled, but adventure-rich state of South Australia. Our Discover Guides are deep dives into new destinations, where we interview experts to get the ‘drum' on the places they live and love. This series is produced as a road trip through a lesser-known part of Australia filled with natural wonders, wildlife and more than one hilarious Aussie character. And don't miss our sweet promo offering from Down Under Endeavors: $500 off your trip for Armchair Explorer listeners.   Go to: downunderendeavours.com/armchair Pop in code ARMCHAIR25 to score a discount on your Australian adventure Down Under. We'll start in Boston Bay with 'Lunch,' a former grain-farmer and sheep shearer that now herds visitors. He'll fill us in on the fish, non-fish, fishy food and fish-eating non-food fish of the seafood frontier. I'll also (possibly) earn a nickname as cool as 'Lunch,' (tune in and find out). Then we're heading back up the coastline towards Adelaide and wine country with possibly the most well-traveled sommelier on the planet: he's solo hiked the Himalayas, led night dives in the Caribbean, armies of scouts in the bush and expeditions in the jungle. And on top of all that, he knows his swirls from his sips and his grenache from his grapes. He's Matthew Kurko, and he's not too proud to enjoy a porch pounder. Finally we're sharing our first 'Dream Sleep' segment, where we explore stays that aren't just a place to spend the night, but an experience all their own. The Frames is built right against the Murray River, which forms on the edge of the Australian Alps and travels 1500 miles to the Limestone Coast. As owners Cathy and Rick Edmonds say, you'll meet the real Australia here, in conversation with locals, drifting the river on a flavor safari, or diving right into the Outback itself. So fair dinkum, no worries mate it's time to hit the frog and toad! Thank you to Down Under Endeavours for partnering with us on this episode. They are the South Australia experts and helped us build this itinerary and connect with the experts featured in the episode. They're offering an exclusive deal to Armchair Explorer listeners: $500 off your adventure. Just go to: downunderendeavours.com/armchair Pop in code ARMCHAIR25 to score a discount on your Australian adventure Down Under. You can find out more and literally book our exact trip, with these exact guides on their website as well. Special thanks to our guests: David ‘Lunch' Doudle from Australian Coastal Safaris australiancoastalsafaris.com.au Matthew Kurko from Small Batch Tours https://www.smallbatchwinetours.com.au Cathy and Rick Edmonds at The Frames http://www.theframesluxuryaccommodation.com.au/ CREDITS Produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry.  Find out more at armchair-productions.com Jason Paton: writing, recording, mixing, sound design Aaron Millar: host, writing, executive producer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“At home, mindfulness is an app, a tool to fight the noise. In the wild, peace and calm rule by default … Out in the open, my mind is released from the noise. It sways with the trees and flows with the rivers. It blows over snow tipped mountaintops and down into wide sunlit valleys expanding to fill its surroundings. The vistas are bigger, but there is less to know.” -        Jude Kriwald   Today, we are taking a journey to one of the most remote and underexplored places on the African continent. The Gola Rainforest straddles the border of Liberia and Sierra Leone, and is home to the Kissi, Mende and Gola tribes. To walk through it would be difficult. To try and a ride a bike, would be insane. Nonetheless that is exactly what adventurer Jude Kriwald decided to do.   At 20 years old Jude knew exactly what he wanted to do. He'd just returned from a 13-month trip cycling from England to India, and he wanted more. He wanted to be an adventurer and dedicate his life to pure joy of exploring the world. But slowly, inevitably, that dream faded as life, and career, took over. Ten years passed. His mental health deteriorated. He would lie awake at night wondering how he let is all slip away.  Until one day, he'd had enough. He flew to Senegal, got on his bike with the plan to spend three-months riding from there to Liberia. But things did not go to plan.    “Alone and in the wild, I am beautifully weird and joyously free. It's not that my rituals and quirks fit in better, they simply exist, unobserved. The road cares not and the sun shines equally on all. In nature I find reprieve. Alone I find myself.”   FIND OUT MORE Jude made a short documentary film about this journey, called Alone Across Gola. Find out more and connect with Jude on Instagram @judekriwald, You Tube @judekriwald,   FOLLOW US: Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com   CONNECT WITH US: If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It helps us grow the show and continue to bring this content to you.   Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Jason Paton is our lead producer and our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bonus Episode - The Armchair ExplorerHello and welcome to this week's episode! I've got something a little different—and very exciting—for you. Today, I'm sharing a powerful episode from The Armchair Explorer, hosted by my good friend Aaron Millar. It is called "IMMERSION: Homecoming: Chief Joseph's Promise and the Flight of the Nez Perce" from the Hidden Trails of Oregon Series.The episode is called Homecoming, and it tells a moving story about the Native American tribes of Eastern Oregon—specifically, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla. It uncovers a nearly forgotten chapter of history involving two chiefs and a sacred promise to bring their people home.The Armchair Explorer is a phenomenal travel podcast that blends immersive audio, rich storytelling, and a deep sense of human connection and adventure. It's a huge inspiration to me, and I think you'll find yourself transported by the vivid way these stories are told. I am absolutely delighted to share this episode today, as quality content is the most important aspect, and Aaron has that in abundance with his podcast.See the shownotes below for all the links to the Armchair Explorer Podcast and everything mentioned in the episode. You have to check in to Aaron's podcast like I do every week!So sit back, relax, and let this journey take you somewhere unforgettable. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.ShownotesWelcome back to the Hidden Trails of Oregon! In the first episode of our new season, host Aaron Millar heads to the eastern edge of the state, far from the bustle of coastal cities and the craggy heights of the Cascade Mountains.We're going on location in the traditional lands of the Nez Perce to uncover a piece of history unknown to most outsiders. In the late 19th century, the Wallowa Band of the Nez Perce tribe were driven from their homeland. 200 warriors, protecting hundreds more women and children, fought for five days against 520 US soldiers. Their leader, before surrendering, promised his people that one day they would come home. After nearly 200 years, his promise may just be starting to come true. This is a unique story of generational resilience, cultural preservation, and the ongoing work for recognition and ancestral lands. RESOURCESTo plan your next Oregon adventure:traveloregon.comAdventure Along With The Hidden Trails of Oregon - https://traveloregon.com/plan-your-trip/destinations/lakes-reservoirs/adventure-along-with-the-hidden-trails-of-oregon-podcast/Visiting the Nez Perce Homeland and the Tamkaliks Celebration powwow:wallowanezperce.orgLocal and cultural history at the Josephy Library: library.josephy.orgThank you to our guests: Bobbie Conner, Rich Wandschneider, Jacey Sohappy, and Nancy Crenshaw.CREDITSThis series was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Find out more at armchair-productions.comBrian Thacker: pre-productionCharles Tyrie: assistant audio editingJason Paton: writing, recording, mixing, sound designAaron Millar: host, writing, executive producerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit

Every month on Pathways, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton crack open a few stories, play their favorite clips, and take you on a whirlwind preview of what's coming up this month on Armchair Explorer. It's part travel hangout, part behind-the-scenes, and a whole lot of part “wait, you did what?” In this episode, we're going from the dreamtime waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the quiet strength of Chief Joseph's legacy in Oregon, from biking hidden streets in Victoria B.C. to walking with kangaroos on remote roads in South Australia. These are stories of culture, nature, and the wild places where the two intertwine.

Today we are taking a journey to the arctic circle, in  the far north of the American continent. This is a story about climbing, and surviving, one of the tallest mountains on Earth. It's about paddling through the most remote national park in America, the Gates of the Arctic; and it's about finding wonder and hope in places where that hope is nearly lost.  Taking us on this journey is mountaineer, writer and arctic explorer Jon Waterman. From his winter ascent of the Denali's Cassin Ridge, the first person to do this extremely dangerous climb, to his expedition on the Noatak River, in Alaska, which sparked a lifelong love affair with Arctic, Jon's poetic descriptions, and nail-biting storytelling, will immerse you in the beauty and danger of the far north, and what it might take to save it. Highlights of Shadow of Denali Into the Thaw: Feeling what it's like to stand on the top of America's tallest mountain in winter, and the cost it took to get there. Exploring the ‘hallucagenic'  beauty of Gates of the Arctic National Park, in Alaska - America's most remote national park. Discovering what it takes to paddle the Northwest Passage solo, a 2,200-mile journey across the roof of the American continent. Hearing the story of Maniilaq, the innuit prophet of the 1800s, who predicted the missionaries, mining and famine that would come to his people.  Listening to Jon's final journey Into the Thaw to document the changes of the last 40yrs, and how he found hope among the people who have lived there since time immemorial. FIND OUT MORE Jon's latest book is called Into the Thaw: Discovering Wonder Amid the Arctic Climate Crisis, published by Patagonia Books. This collection of short stories, and essays, is beautifully written and photographed. It's a book for your collection, or a coffee table, and a joy to dip into when you're dreaming of your next adventure.  Find out more about this book, as well as his other books, including In the Shadow of Denali, at: jonathanwaterman.com, or search it up on Patagonia.com. FOLLOW US: Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com   CONNECT WITH US: If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It helps us grow the show, and continue to bring this content to you.   Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Jason Paton is our lead producer and our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is your monthly guide to the world's wildest travel stories – one adventure at a time. Every month on Pathways, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton crack open a few stories, play their favorite clips, and take you on a whirlwind preview of what's coming up on Armchair Explorer. It's part travel hangout, part behind-the-scenes, part “wait, you did what?”—and all of it is designed to help you find your next great escape. This month, we're going deep. Deep into the world's oldest rainforest. Deep into the soul of South Australia. And deep into the heart of America's wildest frontier with one of the great explorers of our time.

"I've been guiding or working around Wales now for almost over just about over a decade, and I still am in awe at all of the experiences that we have. It's just a wonder of a magnitude that people don't really get to experience anywhere else in urban life" – Nick Coutinho, Prince of Whales In this Bucket List episode, produced in our immersive documentary style, whale watching guide Nick Coutinho shares some of his favorite experiences with these ocean giants, from the awe-inspiring hunting behaviours of Orcas to what it feels like to look a Humpback in the eye.  NIck's taking us to the city of Victoria, Vancouver Island, B.C., on Canada's west coast, one of  the most incredible marine environments in the world. From humpback whales to orcas, seals, and sea lions, the waters here are teeming with life. But what makes this place truly special is the chance to witness a variety of whales year round, up close, and with sightings almost guaranteed.  Join us as we go eye-to-eye with giants in the deep waters of the Salish Sea. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Connect with Giants Feel what it's like to look a Humpback whale in the eye. Nick shares his deeply emotional stories of connecting with these magnificent creatures. Hunting Behavior of Killer Whales Watch Killer Whales hunting beside your boat. Nick takes us through the dramatic and fascinating hunting techniques of these apex predators, and shares some of his favorite sightings over the years.  The Humpback Comeback Learn about one of the most spectacular marine environments in the world. Humpback whales are now staying in Victoria's waters year-round, and the return of these majestic creatures is nothing short of miraculous.  Immersive Soundscapes Experience the breathtaking soundscapes of the ocean, from the thunderous blow of a whale's exhale to the deafening slap of their tail during feeding time. It's a world full of natural symphonies, brought to life in our immersive documentary style. Whale Watching in Victoria Discover what makes this one of the best whale-watching spots on the planet. From seeing humpback whales breach to catching a glimpse of orcas in their natural habitat, we give you the low down on everything you need to know to plan your next bucket list wildlife experience. HOW YOU CAN DO THIS TRIP Visit TourismVictoria.com for all the information you need to book your next bucket list trip  from whale watching and seaweed foraging to bike rides and some of the best seafood you'll ever eat. Head over to PrinceOfWhales.com to book your adventure and follow them on Instagram @princeofwhaleswhalewatching for more amazing sightings. CONNECT WITH NICK To dive deeper into Nick's stories and the world of whales, check out the Prince of Whales Podcast, available wherever you get your shows. CONNECT WITH US Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Website: armchair-explorer.com SUPPORT THE SHOW If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show. Your feedback helps others discover Armchair Explorer and allows us to keep bringing you incredible stories. CREDITS Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar is the writer and presenter, with audio editing and sound design by Charles Tyrie. Our theme music is by Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, we're joined by Rob Pope, the first person in the world to complete the legendary run made famous by one of Hollywood's most beloved characters – Forrest Gump. Yes, you heard that right. Rob took on the challenge of following Forrest's route mile by mile, crossing the country not once, but FIVE times. That's like running from the North Pole to the South Pole, and then some. But this story isn't just about physical endurance. Rob's journey is breaking down emotional walls, and embracing the call of adventure. You'll hear how it all began with a promise to his mom, how he embraced the ups and downs of the journey, and the life lessons learned along the way. Shoutouts: Check out Rob's podcast How to Be Superhuman with Red Bull, where he dives deep into the mental and physical resilience needed to achieve the impossible. Find it wherever you get your podcasts. Rob was running for Peace Direct and The World Wildlife Fund – two incredible charities that are doing important work in the world. Check out the links in the show notes to learn more. Follow Rob on Instagram at @run.robleer.run for more updates and inspiration from his epic journey. Support the Podcast: Thank you to everyone who helped us hit 200 reviews on Spotify! Your support means the world. If you're enjoying the show, don't forget to leave a review or reach out on Instagram at @armchairexplorerpodcast. FOLLOW US: Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com   CONNECT WITH US: If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than let the algorithm guess (wrongly) and miss out on our weekly content. Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Follow best-selling travel author Brian Thacker on a unique, mad-cap adventure to three of the remotest countries on Earth. Inspired by the intrepid spirit of explorers of old, Brian decided to tear up the guidebook, switch off the phone and turn up to a country knowing absolutely nothing about it in advance. He picked three countries at random: the east African country of Togo, the South Pacific islands of Wallis & Futuna and the Central Asian mountains of Kyrgyzstan. He boarded the plane with absolutely no clue of the language, culture, where to stay or what to see. He was simply rolling the dice and letting the universe decide what kind of trip he would have.  Like his heroes of the golden age of exploration, when much of the world was still undiscovered and no one knew what wonders awaited beyond the horizon, Brian was taking a step into the unknown. But, unlike those legends of adventure, Brian's just an ordinary bloke. He wouldn't be risking his life searching for lost tribes in the Amazon or crossing deadly deserts, he was just traveling, like all of us do, in search of good times, new experiences and the pure joy of exploring this amazing planet.  Brian's story inspires all of us that we needn't be extreme adventurers to be real explorers, we just need to tear up the guidebook, turn off your phone and step into the unknown. CONNECT WITH BRIAN Brian's book of this story if called ‘Where's Wallis: Travels Without a Guidebook', you can find out more about that and all Brian's other books at www.brianthacker.tv. Instagram: @bthacker Brian writes and presents a bunch of our other podcasts, if you enjoyed this one check out The Travel South Dakota Stories podcast. Scroll back and look for the episodes about Palm Springs too! CONNECT WITH US If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed.  Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast  Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the start of every month, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton preview what's coming up on Armchair Explorer, play their favorite clips, and reveal the stories they're most excited to share. A cross between a highlight reel, an interview, and two people telling travel tales down the pub, our Pathways episodes are your guide to choosing your adventures with us. MARCH EPISODES ADVENTURE: No Guidebook, No Google, No Clue: Togo, Wallis and Kyrgyzstan with Best-Selling Travel Author Brian Thacker We follow best-selling travel author Brian Thacker on a unique, mad-cap adventure to three of the remotest countries on Earth: Togo, East Africa; Wallis & Futuna, in the South Pacific; and the Central Asian mountains of Kyrgyzstan. Inspired by the intrepid spirit of explorers of old, Brian decided to tear up the guidebook, throw away the phone and turn up to a country knowing absolutely nothing about it in advance.  IMMERSION: Homecoming: Chief Joseph's Promise and the Flight of the Nez Perce We go on location to the traditional lands of the Nez Perce, in eastern Oregon, to uncover a piece of history unknown to most outsiders. In the late 19th century, the Wallowa Band of the Nez Perce tribe were driven from their homeland. 200 warriors, protecting hundreds more women and children, fought for five days against 520 US soldiers. Their leader, before surrendering, promised his people that one day they would come home. After nearly 200 years, his promise may just be starting to come true. BUCKET LIST: Whale Watching in Victoria, B.C. We go to the southern tip of Vancouver Island, in British Columbia, Canada for a bucket list adventure spotting humpback and orca whales. Victoria is one of the best places in North America for whale watching and Nik Coutino, a local guide and expert, shares his best experiences, all set to immersive music and sound design. ADVENTURE: Becoming Forrest with Ultra Runner Rob Pope 15,600 miles, 422 days, and 2 boxes of chocolates, Rob Pope tells the story of his epic journey retracing the exact run that Forrest Gump did in the movie. It's a really fun story, Rob is a hilarious guy, but it's also incredibly inspiring. Before she passed away Rob's mum told him to do one thing in his life that truly makes a difference, and boy did he do it.  Rob is also the host of the Red Bull podcast How to be Superhuman – we shared the first episode of their 3rd series last month. If you missed it, check it out. It's awesome. *** If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed.  Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast  Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I came face to face with grizzly bears. I had to befriend drug lords. I saw two people shot dead. I witnessed a guy trying to kill his wife with five gunshots. I crossed the tallest mountains in the world. I had to swim rivers with horses. I was lost in deserts and nothing, absolutely nothing, brought me more pain and heartache and stress than man made lines drawn across a map.” – Filipe Masetti   A Long Rider is someone who has ridden a horse more than 1,000 continuous miles on a single equestrian journey. Only a handful of people in history have had the skills, and determination, to make it. Filipe Masseti is one of them.    This is the story of one of the greatest long rides in modern times: two years, ten countries, three amazing horses and 10,000 miles of adventure from Canada all the way to Brazil.    Get ready for Filipe Masetti's long ride home …   THE LONG RIDER If you enjoy this episode, you will love Filipe's documentary about the trip. It's beautifully shot, and packed full of adventure, insight, and inspiration.    The Long Rider - Check it out on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Long-Rider-Sean-Cisterna/dp/B0B643V4R8   Filipe has also three books about this journey, and the two that followed. It's called the Journey America Trilogy. The story of this book, the first in the series, is called Long Ride Home.    FOLLOW FILIPE You Tube: @felipemasetti Instagram: @felipemasetti   FOLLOW US: Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com   CONNECT WITH US: If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than let the algorithm guess (wrongly) and miss out on our weekly content.   Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Those are my heroes, those guys paved the way for me to be able to travel through this country, free, and they're almost superhuman to me.”         - Erick Cedeño, Bicycle Nomad In 2013, Erick Cedeño, aka. Bicycle Nomad, came across an old photograph that changed his life. Taken in 1897, it showed 20 black soldiers riding bicycles across the American West. As he dug deeper, he learned that these were the Buffalo Soldiers, an all-black infantry regiment formed after the civil war. The photo was taken during a grueling 1,900-mile journey, in which they traveled by bike from Montana to Missouri in order to test the efficacy of the bicycle as a form of military transport. To this day, it is one of the most difficult bike trips ever undertaken.   As a black man, growing up in America, Erick had never seen people that looked like him riding bikes. It changed his life, and he knew he had to bring their story back to life. But he did it not by telling it, but by living it - pedaling every mile that they did, sleeping where they slept, eating where they ate, taking the hard roads where modern paved highways do not go. And in doing so he invites us to live it too. “Curiosity drives me. It fuels my insatiable desire to know what's beyond the next bend of the road, to discover what's there beyond the edges of the map. If it is my muscles that propel me forward physically, it is curiosity that propels me mentally.” FIND ERICK CEDEÑO Follow all Erick's adventures at iambicyclenomad.com, Instagram: @bicycle_nomad, and Facebook:@bicyclenomad SOCIAL If you enjoy this show, please take a minute to leave a review, it makes a huge difference and enables us to keep brining these stories to you. Remember also to subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about our network partner, APT Podcast Studios, on their website. CREDITS This episode was produced by Armchair Productions. Find our other shows at armchair-productions.com. Jenny Allison wrote and produced this episode, along with host and producer Aaron Millar. Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Theme music written by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the start of every month, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton preview what's coming up on Armchair Explorer, play their favorite clips, and reveal the stories they're most excited to share.   A cross between a highlight reel, an interview, and two people telling travel tales down the pub, our Pathways episodes are your guide to choosing your adventures with us.   February episodes:   ADVENTURE: Long Rider Filipe Masetti takes us on a two-and-a-half-year journey riding his horse from Canada, where he emigrated, to his home in Brazil. Making friends with the cartel, hiding out from gun shots, becoming a local hero, and finding the love of his life. @filipemasetti   RED BULL RHINO RUN: We've partnered with Red Bull's How to be a Superhuman podcast to bring you the first episode of their new series. In it, we follow extreme endurance rider Abdullah Zeinab on the Rhino Run, a 1,700-mile bike packing race across South Africa and Namibia, one of the hardest rides in the world. Check out the full series, it's awesome: How to be a Superhuman.   IMMERSION: Producer Jason Paton and presenter Brian Thacker get unwittingly drafted into the Union Army for A civil war re-enactment in front of thousands of people. They survive hours of marching drills, musket firing lessons and a spooky stay in the old hospital. Part of our Travel South Dakota Stories series.   JOURNEY: To celebrate Black History Month, we're bringing back one of our all-time favorite episodes. Eric Cedeño, aka the Bicycle Nomad, rides 1,900-miles from Montana to Missouri to recreate a journey taken by the 1897 all-black infantry unit known as the ‘Buffalo Soldiers'. @bicycle_nomad   ***   If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed.    Reviewing the show helps other people discover it and helps us continue to produce it. If you like episode, please consider a quick review on your favorite podcast platform. You don't have to write anything just click those five (hopefully) stars!   Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma!   Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast   Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into the soul of Ontario's wild, tranquil landscapes alongside award-winning travel writer and photographer Alex Robinson.  From serene canoe journeys gliding through Algonquin Provincial Park to exhilarating white-water escapades on the Madawaska River, this journey is an invitation to immerse yourself in the pristine waterways of the Canadian wilderness, and discover the heritage of its first form of transport.  Episode Highlights: Paddle through Algonquin Provincial Park where stunning birch and maple forests offer a perfect sanctuary from urban life. Discover the Sacred Tradition of the Canoe, from its deep-rooted significance to Indigenous peoples to its pivotal role in shaping Canada's cultural identity. Feel the Thrill of White-Water Canoeing, navigating the fierce currents and swirling rapids of the Madawaska River. Connect to Nature as Alex's evocative storytelling immerses you in the sounds and spirit of the Canadian wilderness. How You Can Do This Trip Alex's canoeing adventure in Ontario is an experience you can have too. For more details on how to plan your own journey, drop Aaron a line on instagram or via the website. You can also check out Travel.DestinationCanada.com for more ideas. Connect with Alex Follow Alex on Instagram to check out his award-winning photography, including shots of this trip: @alexrobinsonphotography  JRNY Magazine This story was inspired by an article Alex wrote for JRNY Magazine. Find more of their content at jrnymag.com  Connect with Us Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Website: armchair-explorer.com Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show. It helps others discover Armchair Explorer and lets us continue to share more of these incredible stories with you! Credits: Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar is the writer and presenter, with audio editing and sound design by Charles Tyrie. Our theme music is by Sweet Chap.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

St. Patrick might be the most famous of the Irish saints...but he's far from the most interesting. In 2023, St. Brigid's Day was decreed a National Holiday in Ireland to honor Brigid. Over the millennia, this legendary woman has evolved into a figure encompassing myth, holy legend, pagan icon, and now modern feminist symbol. But who was Brigid, really? To answer that question, travel writer Nicola Brady set off around Ireland to see how she's celebrated, and she found that there's not one simple answer. Because, as with everything in Ireland, you never know quite what's around the corner. Listen for a story that takes you into forests and through time, from the windswept hills of Downpatrick to ancient cathedrals of Kildare. And you just might encounter some fire dancers, divine poetry, and even a miniature Batman on a bicycle... Thank you to everyone who featured in this episode: Judith Boyle from Boyle's Pub  Phil O'Shea from Solas Bhríde Tom McCutcheon from the Kildare Heritage Center Musicians Lisa Lambe and Moya Brennan Brigid Watson from Sustainable Journeys Ireland And poets Laura Murphy and Grainne Tobin. Also, much of the music you've heard in this episode was recorded live in St. Brigid's Cathedral. Thank you to Hot Press for helping with the recording and thanks to all the performers from that evening as well. And a big thanks to Paula O'Brien of Brigid 1500 for helping us onsite. The show was hosted by Nicola Brady, and you can find her work at NicolaBrady.com. And if you want to learn more about booking your own trip to experience the sights and attractions featured in this episode, go to Ireland.com or follow along on social media @Tourism Ireland. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com. CREDITS This show was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Jason Paton recorded, mixed, and sound designed the show. Charles Tyrie helped with the editing. Jenny Allison and Aaron Millar produced it. Nicola Brady hosted and wrote it. Thanks so much. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we journey into the wild, rugged landscapes of Iceland through the eyes of renowned photographer and filmmaker, Chris Burkard. From an unplanned surfing adventure under the Northern Lights to his grueling exploration of Iceland's remote "Forgotten Coast," Chris takes us on a path of discovery and inspiration. We explore the vast beauty of Iceland—from icy fjords and glacial rivers to volcanic black sand beaches—and reflect on the transformative power of nature. Get ready for a deep dive into the heart of exploration, where nature's raw forces meet the human spirit of adventure. Highlights from the Episode: Surfing Under the Northern Lights Chris recounts a wild surfing trip to the West Fjords, where an unexpected storm nearly derailed the adventure—but the payoff was worth it when they found themselves surfing under the Northern Lights. The Forgotten Coast Adventure After years of flying over Iceland's "Forgotten Coast," Chris sets off to explore it on the ground—battling harsh weather, dangerous river crossings, and raw wilderness. Risk, Reward & Connection to Nature A reflective moment as Chris explains the importance of immersing oneself in nature to fully advocate for its preservation and to experience it deeply. Watch Chris' Latest Film: The Forgotten Coast The Forgotten Coast captures the raw beauty of Iceland's most isolated coastline. A journey full of unexpected moments and incredible landscapes. Watch it now at ChrisBurkard.com and check out Chris' Instagram @chrisburkard for his stunning photography and more. Follow Us: Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Newsletter: armchair-explorer.com CONNECT WITH US: If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it! It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than let the algorithm guess (wrongly) and miss out on our weekly content. Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the start of every month, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton preview what's coming up on Armchair Explorer, play their favorite clips, and reveal the stories they're most excited to share. A cross between a highlight reel, an interview, and two people telling travel tales down the pub, our Pathways episodes are your guide to choosing your adventures with us. October episodes: ADVENTURE: Adventure filmmaker Chris Burkard takes us surfing in the Northern Lights, and bike-rafting along Iceland's 300-mile Forgotten Coast. PERFORMANCE: We head to Chattanooga, Tennessee - one of the original homes of The Blues -for a hotel room jam, and interview, with local Blues legend Rick Rushing. IMMERSION: Hear the alternative story of the Oregon Trail, told On Location in Eastern Oregon by an elder of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla. We Will Never Fade is the title, and spirit, of this rarely told history of the West. BUCKET LIST: Host Aaron Millar tells us about the most spectacular place he's ever stayed. Sheldon Chalet is perched on a nunatak in the middle of the Ruth Glacier, looking out to the eastern face of Denali, and the Alaskan Range. JOURNEY: Travel writer Alex Robinson takes us on a canoe journey through the lakes and rivers of Ontario, Canada, and discovers a deep connection to nature and the thrill of white-water canoeing. IMMERSION: Discover the story of the female St Patrick, in an immersive On Location journey across Ireland. St Brigid's story was buried for over a millennia, but now it's discovered, it's set to take on Patrick, and his worldwide famous day. *** If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed. Reviewing the show helps other people discover it and helps us continue to produce it. If you like episode, please consider a quick review on your favorite podcast platform. You don't have to write anything just click those five (hopefully) stars! Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They call it The Land of Stone and Light because of the way sunlight plays on its rocky terrain. It is a geological tapestry of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires, home to one of the richest fossil beds on the planet. The Lakota people called it Mako Sica, which is where it got its name. But there is nothing bad about the Badlands. Recorded on location in immersive stereo surround, join presenter Brian Thacker on a journey through South Dakota's Badlands National Park. We'll find ancient fossils and murder pigs, become an unwelcome visitor in a prairie dog town, and go horseback riding through an endless sea of grass under the shadows of rocky buttes straight out of a western movie. Welcome to the Land of Stone and Light, where bad means good. FIND OUT MORE Our on location ‘Immersion' documentaries are designed so that you can experience everything we did in this episode. Go to travelsouthdakota.com for everything else you need to know to plan your great South Dakota adventure. CONNECT WITH US If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed. Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Brian Thacker wrote and presented this episode. Jason Paton did the field recording and production. Aaron Millar was executive producer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“… tied up at the pier was this all-black pirate ship with the Jolly Roger flag at the bow. It was menacing as hell, and I walked up to the superstructure, and there on the on the outer bulkhead, was all these skulls and crossbones. They were the names of all ships these guys had sunk or rammed on the high seas.” In 2005, adventure journalist and best-selling novelist Peter Heller, spent six weeks on board the eco-pirate ship Farley Mowat, fighting the Japanese whaling fleet. Led by Captain Paul Watson, the founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, their mission was to disrupt, ram or sink the harpoon boats and factory ships that hunt and kill hundreds of whales each year. Some people called them eco-terrorists, others hailed them as heroes. Battling Class 7 and 8 gales, and 35-foot-high seas, this is their story. You'll have to make your own mind up. CONNECT WITH PETER HELLER Peter Heller is a beautiful writer, as well as an accomplished adventurer. His novels fuse both these passions seamlessly, transporting you to wild and beautiful places, whilst keeps you page-turning on the edge of your seat. Find out more about his books at peterhellerauthor.com His latest novel, Burn, is about two men—friends since boyhood—who emerge from the woods of rural Maine to a dystopian country racked by bewildering violence. #FREEPAULWATSON At the time of publication Captain Paul Watson was being held in jail awaiting extradition to Japan where he faces up to 15 years in prison for the work he did on this mission, and others since. Find out more at paulwatsonfoundation.org WHALE CONSERVATION: Find out more at seashepherd.org CONNECT WITH US If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed. Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the start of every month, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton preview what's coming up on Armchair Explorer, play their favorite clips, and reveal the stories they're most excited to share. A cross between a highlight reel, an interview, and two people telling travel tales down the pub, our Pathways episodes are your guide to choosing your adventures with us. December episodes: ADVENTURE: Whale Warriors We join best-selling author and activist Peter Heller on board an eco-pirate ship as they battle illegal Japanese whalers in the Southern Ocean. IMMERSION: Ancient Kingdoms We cross the Arabian desert to the city of Tayma, take part in the Ancient Kingdoms Festival, and explore one of the largest oases in the world. BUCKET LIST: The Everest of Cage Dives In the Neptune Islands of Australia, home to the most Great White Sharks on the planet, there is a cage dive that drops you all the way to the ocean floor. And it was set up by the guy who survived the shark attack that inspired the movie, Jaws. IMMERSION: Welcome to the Badlands Join best-selling travel author Brian Thacker on a journey deep into the Badlands of South Dakota. We find ancient fossils on hiking trails, become an unwelcome visitor in a prairie town, and go horseback riding through an endless sea of grass, straight out of a western movie. WANDERLUST: The Curiosities of Christmas Island. We sit down with travel journalist Martin Symington to hear about his journey to one of the most remote places on Earth. No, Santa doesn't live there. Yes, David Attenborough thinks it's awesome. BUCKET LIST: 100-mile Pub Crawl Host Aaron Millar takes us on a 100-mile pub crawl along the South Downs Way, a long-distance footpath that crosses the South Downs National Park in England. IMMERSION: Wellness in the Desert We're back with Brian Thacker in search of some New Year's nature-inspired wellness: healing waters, indigenous bird song and Joshua Tree National Park at night. *** If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed. Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Palm Springs is a must-visit for cinephiles, history buffs, adventure seekers, architecture enthusiasts and foodies, but this desert city is better known as the home of glitz and glamour.   Today, we are stepping back in time to when Palm Springs was Hollywood's favorite hideaway, when mid-century architecture shaped the town and suavely clad folk sipped martinis by the pool. In this episode, we're going to visit Frank Sinatra (or his house and favorite restaurant at least), tour the Shag House with Shag himself, meet Barbie and Elvis for dinner and craft cocktails with Palm Springs very own Mr Tiki. Recorded on location in immersive surround sound, this episode is designed to give you a glimpse of what it feels like to be there for real.   Thank you to everyone who featured in this episode:   -  Our guide Kip from the Palm Springs Historical Society -  Artist and style king Josh Agle, better known as Shag -  Barbie queen and Modernism Week CEO Lisa Vossler Smith -  Dan Ruiz from the Ingleside Inn -  Brian Mitchell, the food and beverage manager, and all the staff from Melvyn's   PLAN YOUR GREATER PALM SPRINGS TRIP Our On Location episodes are designed so that you can experience everything you hear. Check out the links above, or find out more at VisitGreaterPalmSprings.com CONNECT WITH US If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed.    Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma!   Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast   Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Brian Thacker wrote and presented this episode; Jason Paton did the field recording and audio production; and Aaron Millar was the executive producer . Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the start of every month, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton preview what's coming up on Armchair Explorer, play their favorite clips, and reveal the stories they're most excited to share. A cross between a highlight reel, an interview, and two people telling travel tales down the pub, our Pathways episodes are your guide to choosing your adventures with us. October episodes: ADVENTURE: Wildlife film makers Jim and Jamie Dutcher spend six years living with a pack of wolves in the Sawtooth Mountains of Idaho. IMMERSION: We go on location to the Arabian deserts of AlUla in search of adventure and find out what it feels like to crash land a hot air balloon. IMMERSION: Discover the Golden Age of Hollywood in Palm Springs, California: shag houses, Mr. Tiki and Sinatra's favorite haunt. ADVENTURE:  We join best-selling author and activist Peter Heller on board an eco-pirate ship as they battle illegal Japanese whalers in the Southern Ocean. BUCKET LIST: Host Aaron Millar takes us on a 100-mile pub crawl along the South Downs of England. IMMERSION: Thanksgiving Special all about food: sacred corn, fish boils, and pizza farms. *** If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed.  Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast  Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“We're fighting to make the world less boring. Our planet used to slap us about the face-cheeks with iron fists of adventure every day.  Maps had edges to walk off. Whole continents lay undiscovered. But now, the entire surface of the Earth has been scanned by satellites and shoveled into your mobile phone, tagged with twattery about which restaurant serves the best mocha-latte-frappeshite.  We live to find ways to make the world a bit more difficult. To bring chaos into our over-sanitized lives.  To create adventures where you don't know what will happen tomorrow or if you'll even make it. Because we think there's no greater moment than those seconds as you leap into an abyss of uncertainty and disaster.” Tom Morgan, The Adventurists  This is how a group called The Adventurists describe themselves, and today we're speaking with one of their founders about the trip that inspired it all. It's called the Mongol Rally, and the premise is to drive from London to Mongolia, in a car that costs not much more than a cup of tea, with no plan and no back up.  In this day and age, with the technology we have in our pocket, there's a tendency to plan things out to the nth degree. The Adventurists offer an important counterpoint to that. Maybe adventure should have an element of risk?  Maybe embracing the unknown is an essential part of exploration? What if we're denying ourselves something important in our over-sanitized lives?  Today's guests Jenny Hunter talks about this and lots more, as she takes us 10,000 miles from a bar in Shoreditch to Ulaanbaatar.  SIGN UP FOR CHAOS Believe it or not, you can actually do the Mongol Rally yourself, as well as a bunch of other mad cap adventures. Check out theadventurists.com to find out more. CONNECT WITH US If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed.  Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast  Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar writes and presents the show, Charles Tyrie does the audio editing and sound design, and Jason Paton is lead producer. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Episode cover photo by Tom Archer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the start of every month, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton preview what's coming up on Armchair Explorer, play their favorite clips, and reveal the stories they're most excited to share. A cross between a highlight reel, an interview, and two people telling travel tales down the pub, our Pathways episodes are your guide to choosing your adventures with us. October episodes: ADVENTURE: National Geographic photographer and mountaineer Cory Richards takes us on a journey to the top of the Himalayas in search of The Color of Everything. DISCOVERY: We go on location to the ancient city of Alula to uncover the history hidden in the Earth CONNECTION: We speak with Jenny Hunter from the Adventurists about the time she drove a $1,000 car from London to Mongolia and the importance of getting lost. IMMERSION: We send an Aussie to a rodeo in South Dakota and chaos ensues. INSIGHT: Halloween Special – Aaron goes to a seance in the London Tombs and strange things occur. BUCKET LIST: Halloween Special – we take the world's scariest whisky tour inside America's most notorious prison. If you enjoy the show, please subscribe on whatever podcast player you're reading this on right now. Go on, do it. It means you get to choose what episodes you listen to, rather than the algorithm guess (wrongly) and kick us off your feed. Following the show on socials will definitely maybe bring you good travel karma! Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar and Jason Paton presented the show, Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“The best way to travel? Dare to be lonely, lost, and bored.” – Rolf Potts, author of Vagabonding Today's special episode is in honor of World Travel Day, which was set up by the United Nations over 50 years ago and is celebrated today, on September 27th, every year. Here's what they have to say about it … Tourism as an instrument for peace Tourism, often highlighted for its role in economic development, also plays a significant role in fostering peace. On a global level, where nations are interconnected and interdependent, Tourism, an industry made by people and for people, emerges as a compelling and dynamic force to defy stereotypes and challenge prejudices. This sector can be perceived as the epitome of intercultural dialogue; it allows meeting the "other", learning about different cultures, hearing foreign languages, tasting exotic flavours, bonding with other human beings, and building tolerance. In essence, it is a mind-broadening educational and spiritual experience. Our guest today is author Rolf Potts, whose book Vagabonding was one of the pioneering publications of independent travel and has become a legend on the backpacking, van life and digital nomadism scenes. He has inspired countless travelers to forgo expensive, overly planned travel in favor of affordable, spontaneous exploration. Plus, he has some incredible stories he's collected over the years. Highlights include: Taking a traditional fishing boat on a three-week journey down the Mekong River. Trekking through the jungle to visit remote tribes in Indonesia. Riding a bicycle across Myanmar. Finding out how to let go of expectations and open yourself to authentic experiences. Learning the subtle art of being bored, and why it's important. Discovering how exploration enhances our experience of home. CONNECT WITH ROLF Follow Rolf on Instagram @rolfpotts, or visit his website at rolfpotts.com to find his books, articles, blog, videos, writing courses, and more. You can also find his newest book, The Vagabond's Way: 366 Meditations on Wanderlust, Discover, and the Art of Travel at your local bookstore or online. There are so many interesting stories and reflections in there that we didn't have time to cover, so we highly recommend you pick up a copy for yourself! CONNECT WITH US Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Following the show will bring good travel karma! If you like this episode, please support us by subscribing to the show. Don't miss finding out where our next adventure will take you. Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar presented the show and wrote it along with Jenny Allison. Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Our theme music is by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Follow world-renowned explorer Ed Stafford on the expedition that made his name: walking the entire length of the Amazon River, on foot. People thought that it was impossible, that he would die trying; and they were nearly right. He was attacked by a tribe of angry machete wielding indigenous peoples, he faced Narco drug traffickers and giant anacondas. But gradually, step by step, over the course of two and half years, through some of the toughest and deadliest terrain on the planet, he proved them all wrong. Ed crossed the entire continent from the Peruvian Andes, and the furthest known source of the Amazon, to Brazil, where the river flows into the Atlantic Ocean, more than 4,000-miles away. He is the first person in history to do it, and holds a Guinness World Record for the achievement. This is one of the boldest expeditions ever attempted, and one of the greatest adventure tales ever told. Are you ready to head into the jungle? Let's go. Highlights include: · Hear how Ed survived being surrounded by an angry tribe of indigenous peoples intent on hacking him to pieces · Find out how he crossed the infamous Red Zone, a lawless area of the jungle controlled by drug-traffickers · Climb with him to the 18,000-foot summit of Nevado Mismi, in the Peruvian Andes, the furthest known source of the Amazon · Meet the Ashaninka, the largest indigenous tribe in the Amazon Basin, and hear how Ed ended up befriending two tribal chiefs and walking with them for more than 6 weeks. · Discover what it takes to complete such a long and grueling expedition – 860 days walking through some of the toughest jungle terrain on the planet · Hear his personal story of transformation. How he began the journey as a ‘volatile young man' wanting to prove how tough he was, but how the jungle humbled him, and made him connect with a deeper, and more authentic of himself. · See this amazing forest through new eyes. The Amazon is nearly 20 times the size of Great Britain, home to some 400 billion trees, and 10% of the world's species. For Ed, it began as a dangerous place, something to be conquered, but it ended up becoming home, a place to be marveled at, and protected · Hear what adventure means to Ed, how it is the ‘crucible in which you find yourself', and how you too can use adventure and exploration to connect more deeply with who you really are Also, find out about Ed's new series – Ed Stafford: First Man Out. Available in America and elsewhere too https://www.discoveryuk.com Find out about Ed's new bushcraft academy at: www.bushcraft.academy For more background information on this episode, photos, links to his books and shows, and more, please visit https://www.armchair-explorer.com/post/walking-the-amazon-with-explorer-ed-stafford The Armchair Explorer: the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road. Each episode is cut documentary style with music and cinematic effects to create an immersive storytelling experience. http://www.armchair-explorer.com Host/Producer Aaron Millar is an award-winning travel writer (Nat Geo, The Times etc.) Instagram/Facebook: @armchairexplorerpodcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode, both of our storytellers share their experiences with grief and how they chose to say farewell to their dearly departed. Part 1: When Sanjana Murthy misses her grandfather's funeral, she struggles with the lack of closure. Part 2: Paul Barach impulsively decides to walk the Pacific Coast Trail to escape the grief of his girlfriend's suicide. This story does include mentions of suicide. In case you'd find them helpful, now or at any point in the future, we have some resources available on our website. New York City based Research Coordinator Sanjana Murthy is thrilled to be here. Her lab's work at Mount Sinai (Dept of Psychiatry, Center for Advanced Circuit Therapeutics) identifies neurophysiological biomarkers to improve treatment for depression. She holds a B.S. in Brain and Behavioral Sciences from Purdue University, where she curated shows for the TEDxPurdueU stage.  Paul Barach is a writer, storyteller, and thru-hiker from Seattle, Washington. A 2013 Moth GrandSlam runner up, his stories have been featured on Risk, Out There, and other podcasts. Paul has also been a featured guest on Deviate with Rolf Potts, Backpacker Radio, Zero to Travel, and Armchair Explorer. Paul has hiked the Shikoku Pilgrimage, Colorado Trail, and Pacific Crest Trail among others, bicycled the Trans-America Trail, and most recently completed the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal. He is the author of the travel memoir "Fighting Monks and Burning Mountains: Misadventures on a Buddhist Pilgrimage" and is currently working on a memoir about the Pacific Crest Trail, as well as a comedic novel about a vampire hunter who's sick of his job. Paul currently lives in Tacoma with his wife Michelle and their dog Izzy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pub crawls, wine tasting, a distillery or two. The only thing better than summer travel, is summer travel with a drink in hand. That's what this episode is all about. We're calling it Liquid Tourism and it's going to be a lot of fun. Today, we're going to Yolo County, California. You may remember it from the documentary we made about the Slow Food movement up there. It's a beautiful rural landscape filled with vineyards, small farms and almond blossoms blowing in the breeze. It's also a superb place for Liquid Tourism. But this episode is a little different from our previous On Location episodes. Instead of producing it as a single documentary style piece, host Aaron Millar and producer Jason Paton – in the spirit of liquid tourism itself –sit down for a couple beers and a yarn about their travels, and then we cut in some of our favorite highlight clips throughout. We hope this episode captures a glimpse behind the scenes into the fun Jason and Aaron have making these shows for you. Plus, we get to show off a cool part of the world and a new liquid style of travel that I'm sure you're going to love. So, pour yourself a frosty one and join Jason and Aaron down the virtual pub reminiscing about one of their booziest trips. If you enjoy this episode, check out the full series we made about Yolo County. It's called Yolo County: Indulge in the Authentic. Follow Armchair Explorer on Instagram and Facebook. Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Find our other shows at armchair-productions.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the Florida Keys, the ocean isn't just part of the scenery. Because beneath those shimmering teal waters, there are adventures and discoveries just waiting to be found. And in today's episode, we'll explore two very different - yet equally captivating - gems of the Keys, with excerpts from two different episodes of the 30-part Florida Keys Traveler podcast. First, join host Elizabeth Harryman Lasley as she visits Marathon's Dolphin Research Center. Mandy Rodriguez co-founded DRC in 1984 as a research facility where dolphins are cared for and nurtured in a forever home. The results are something you'll have to hear to believe. (Hint: It really is possible to speak with them - and doing so has saved many lives). Then, Elizabeth speaks with Kim Fisher. In 1985, Kim's father Mel Fisher finally found the object of a deep-sea search spanning nearly 17 years. The Atocha shipwreck was named by the Guinness Book of World Records as the most valuable shipwreck treasure ever recovered, then worth an estimated $400 million. Join us for an episode that will have you eager to hop into the water by the time you're done. VISIT THE FLORIDA KEYS If you want to learn more about booking your own trip to experience the sights and attractions featured in this episode, go to Fla-Keys.com. To call from the United States or Canada, dial 1 (800) FLA-KEYS or contact your travel advisor. SOCIAL For more details about Dolphin Research Center, and for details about this episode's featured dolphins, Pax and Talon, go to dolphins.org. For more information about Mel Fisher's Treasures, go to melfisher.com. The Florida Keys History Center, itself a treasure trove of Keys history, is located in the Key West Library: keyslibraries.org. And please help share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com. CREDITS This show was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Elizabeth Harryman-Lasley hosted and wrote the show. Jason Paton recorded, mixed, and sound designed it. Jenny Allison and Aaron Millar produced it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

St. Patrick might be the most famous of the Irish saints...but he's far from the most interesting. In 2023, St. Brigid's Day was decreed a National Holiday in Ireland to honor Brigid. Over the millennia, this legendary woman has evolved into a figure encompassing myth, holy legend, pagan icon, and now modern feminist symbol. But who was Brigid, really? To answer that question, travel writer Nicola Brady set off around Ireland to see how she's celebrated, and she found that there's not one simple answer. Because, as with everything in Ireland, you never know quite what's around the corner. Listen for a story that takes you into forests and through time, from the windswept hills of Downpatrick to ancient cathedrals of Kildare. And you just might encounter some fire dancers, divine poetry, and even a miniature Batman on a bicycle... Thank you to everyone who featured in this episode: Judith Boyle from Boyle's Pub  Phil O'Shea from Solas Bhríde Tom McCutcheon from the Kildare Heritage Center Musicians Lisa Lambe and Moya Brennan Brigid Watson from Sustainable Journeys Ireland And poets Laura Murphy and Grainne Tobin. Also, much of the music you've heard in this episode was recorded live in St. Brigid's Cathedral. Thank you to Hot Press for helping with the recording and thanks to all the performers from that evening as well. And a big thanks to Paula O'Brien of Brigid 1500 for helping us onsite. The show was hosted by Nicola Brady, and you can find her work at NicolaBrady.com. And if you want to learn more about booking your own trip to experience the sights and attractions featured in this episode, go to Ireland.com or follow along on social media @Tourism Ireland. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com. CREDITS This show was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Jason Paton recorded, mixed, and sound designed the show. Charles Tyrie helped with the editing. Jenny Allison and Aaron Millar produced it. Nicola Brady hosted and wrote it. Thanks so much. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Van Gujjar tribes spend half of each year living deep in the forests of northern India and the other half high on the mountain plains of the Himalayas. Herding water buffalo, whose milk nourishes and sustains their livelihoods, every Van Gujjar family makes an annual migration from their winter home in the forests to their summer grazing fields in the Himalayas. That is -- until now. Faced with the threat of losing their herds and their grazing lands to the development of national parks, many Van Gujjar families are facing an uncertain future. And when author Michael Benanav heard of their situation and wanted to learn more, he decided there was only one way to truly understand. So he joined them on their yearly migration. Over six weeks, 125 miles, and over 11,000 feet in elevation gain, Michael and his hosts traveled on an unforgettable journey. This is a story about the changing of the seasons, a vanishing way of life, and the connections we make with the land that sustains us. FIND MICHAEL You can get your copy of Himalaya Bound: One Family's Quest to Save Their Animals and an Ancient Way of Life wherever books are sold (we particularly love local bookshops!) and read more about the book on its dedicated website, HimalayaBound.com. Find more of Michael's writing and photography on his website, MichaelBenanav.com. Learn more about SOPHIA, the Dehradun NGO featured in the episode, at Sophia.org.in. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website at APTpodcaststudios.com. CREDITS This episode was produced by Armchair Productions. Find our other shows at armchair-productions.com. Jenny Allison did the guest booking and wrote this episode, along with host and producer Aaron Millar. Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Theme music written by the artist Sweet Chap (on IG @the_sweet_chap). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we are going to Nashville, Tennessee The Country Music Capital of the World … but don't worry you don't have to love country to love Nashville. It is a music town. If you like listening to live music – who doesn't? – then this is a musical odyssey you must take at least once in your life. We're going to have some fun, we're going backstage at 3 rd and Lyndsey, one of Nashville's most iconic venues, to meet the songwriters who are the beating heart of Nashville and hear a song or two. We're going to stand on the stage of the legendary Ryman Auditorium, where everyone from johnny cash to Aretha Franklin have played. And of course, we're going to party on Broadway, Nashville's ‘Honky Tonk Highway', row after row of raucous saloons, where you can listen to live music from 10am to 3am seven days a week. It's like being caught in a maelstrom of sound. The band's about to go on stage, turn it up to 11 … we're going to Nashville, Tennessee. Connect with us - Tell us what you think of this episode, what you'd like to hear more of, and where you're dreaming of going next. If you like travel and adventure, we're going to get on well. Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast Facebook: @armchairexploerpodcast Newsletter: www.armchair-explorer.com We did six episodes on this series, if you like this one scroll back in the feed to find a few more… Memphis & The Birth of Rock n' Roll and Soul, and The Tennessee Whisky Trail are two of our favorites. Or check out the Tennessee Music Pathways podcast for the full series. -- Our On-Location episodes take a lot of time and money to produce, so we partner with destinations to make it happen. They help with the costs. But the storytelling is all ours. Thanks to the folks at Tennessee Tourism. Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar wrote and presented this episode, and Jason Paton did the field recording and production. Find our other shows at www.Armchair-Productions.com. Armchair Explorer is part of APT Podcast Studio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"I will show you my Amazon - the Amazon that visitors never get to see." When Alex Robinson heard those words, he knew he was in for the adventure of a lifetime. His guide, Saru Mundurucu, had recently founded his own adventure and travel company, Aracá Expeditions. As the first and only Amazon adventure company owned and operated by an indigenous Amazonian, Saru promised Alex an experience unlike any other - and he delivered. Immerse yourself in rich, abundant landscapes as Alex he recounts his eye-opening voyage down the Rio Negro. You'll float along, sipping caipirinhas on the deck of Saru's boat; you'll paddle through the flooded forest in Jaú National Park; you'll come face to face with some of the Amazon's most elusive wildlife, from giant otters to river dolphins. The trip culminates with a hike up the remote Serra Do Aracá  - a mountain which Saru describes as a place "like the world before humans walked the earth." From gorgeous descriptions to surprising and touching anecdotes, this is a story you won't want to miss. FIND ALEX Follow Alex on Instagram @AlexRobinsonPhotography or on X (Twitter) @AlexRobPhoto. You can also find his writing in Wanderlust at WanderlustMagazine.com. And check out their podcast, Wanderlust: Off the Page, for plenty of interviews with other incredible writers! You can also book this episode's featured trip, and other travels with Saru, through his company Aracá Expeditions at Aracá Expeditions.com. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website at APTpodcaststudios.com. CREDITS This episode was produced by Armchair Productions. Find our other shows at armchair-productions.com. Jenny Allison wrote and produced this episode, along with host and producer Aaron Millar. Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Theme music written by the artist Sweet Chap (on IG @the_sweet_chap). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're journeying to Lake Baikal, the largest, oldest, deepest freshwater lake in the world...and to get there, we're crossing over a thousand miles in Mongolia and Russia by camel, horse, kayak, and rowboat. Like all lakes, Lake Baikal exists because of a river. And in 2018, fishing and river guide Peter Fong led the first-ever expedition from the headwaters of Mongolia's Delgermörön (Selenge) River all the way to Lake Baikal. As Peter writes, "Rowing to Baikal is about the fish and wildlife that call the river home. About the personal risks of prolonged flooding and sudden snowstorms. About the human history of the region, from the Bronze Age to the fall of the Soviet Union. About the people who live in the basin now—from nomadic herders to construction workers—and their attitudes toward development and conservation. About the old gods and legends that haunt the mountains. And about the disparate possible futures for one of the most starkly beautiful places on Earth." FIND PETER Get Peter's book about the expedition, Rowing to Baikal, at RowingToBaikal.com or at your local bookshop. Half of the proceeds from book sales are supporting the International Taimen Initiative via the Wild Salmon Center, so it supports a great cause! There's also an excellent video trailer on the website, so make sure to check that out. And to keep up with his other work, follow him on Instagram @PWFong. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website at APTpodcaststudios.com. CREDITS This episode was produced by Armchair Productions. Find our other shows at armchair-productions.com. Jenny Allison wrote and produced this episode, along with host and producer Aaron Millar. Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Theme music written by the artist Sweet Chap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we're returning to the mountains of Colorado to hear about the adventures of Isabella Bird, a British explorer who famously ascended Longs Peak in 1873 with her guide and companion Jim Nugent. The story of Bird and Jim illuminates the early history and character of Estes Park, as her writings helped establish the town as a tourist destination, and parallels with the broader historic myth of the frontier and the American west. Bird remains an inspiration to the locals of Estes Park, including restaurateur Melissa Strong. We visit her new restaurant Bird & Jim to hear of her near-death experience and learn how Isabella's determination to break the conventions of the time was an inspiration for Melissa's subsequent recovery. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website at APTpodcaststudios.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"There are eight species of bears on the planet. Six of them are threatened everywhere they live." Thus begins Beartrek, a documentary which took Chris Morgan nearly 8 years to make. In Beartrek, he follows the lives of several individual bears around the world, from a friendly spectacled bear in Peru's arid mountains to a shy sun bear cub in the muggy rainforests of Borneo. Chris, a British-born ecologist, conservationist, TV presenter, and podcast host, has spent most of his adult life learning about bears and telling their stories. His interest in ursidae began with one very interesting nighttime trip to a dumpster in New Hampshire (listen to the episode for the full story); now, he's one of the world's foremost bear storytellers. Follow along with Chris as he recounts some of Beartrek's most memorable moments - some of which never made it to the screen - as well as the work he's doing today with bears around the world. You'll travel from Canada's icy Arctic tundra to the humid rainforests of the Indo-pacific, and you'll learn the names - and life stories - of some bears you'll never forget. FIND CHRIS Listen to Chris's incredible podcast, The Wild, wherever you find your podcasts, and follow it on IG @TheWildPod. You can also rent or buy Beartrek, his documentary featured in today's episode, on Amazon Prime. Finally, follow all of his work on his website, ChrisMorganWildlife.org, or on socials @ChrisMorganWildlife. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website at APTpodcaststudios.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Humans are meant to excel. And when you start pushing that and seeing how capable we are, it's phenomenal what you can actually go and do." -Justin Packshaw When Justin Packshaw was trekking in Antarctica several years ago, he noticed something disturbing: The ice shelf had visibly melted since his previous visit, just a few decades prior. "In the grand scheme of how old our world is, and its present state, that's a really quite frightening thing," he said. And with that, he had an idea. Not all scientists have the time, resources, or, frankly, the stamina to conduct invaluable in-person research in the heart of Antarctica, which holds the record as the world's coldest, windiest, and driest continent. But Justin did. He and his adventure partner, Jamie Facer-Childs, proposed a data-gathering mission to several universities: They would cross Antarctica's heart and gather critical scientific data about climate change. But other agencies were interested in the trip as well. As it turns out, pushing the human body to its limits - physically, psychologically, mentally - is one of the key areas of research for space agencies like NASA and the European Space Agency. Justin and Jamie's expedition would collect critical data on behavior, coping abilities, teamwork, endurance, even eyesight, that would be invaluable for future space missions in which astronauts will live for years in a space no larger than a studio apartment. This is a good, old-fashioned adventure romp - but it's more than that too. It's also a story about science, psychology, Mars, and climate change. It's about how we cope with the most extreme physical challenges imaginable and ultimately how that defines us as humans. FIND JUSTIN Learn more about Justin and his adventures at his website, JustinPackshaw.com, or follow him on Instagram @JustinPackshaw. Find more details about the Antarctica expedition at ChasingTheLight2021.com. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website at APTpodcaststudios.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Yolo County in Northern California is one of the world's premier destinations for slow food. But that doesn't mean waiting for your dinner - it means savoring every bite and building a connection to the land from which it comes. We live in a fast world. 20% of all meals are eaten in cars. One third of Americans eat fast food every single day. That has consequences. When we forget that food isn't grown in supermarket aisles or materialized in drive-through windows, when we fail to remember that the true joy of food comes not from the instant gratification of everything all the time, but from the scarcity of the seasons, and the rhythms of the land, we sell ourselves – and our tastebuds – short. That's what this episode is about, and we'll be unpacking what that means on a slow food road trip across Yolo County, exploring fresh organic farms, meeting the leaders in Yolo's Slow Food movement, and eating one of the best meals you will ever eat. “Slow food is a way of both reminiscing, and yet bringing food into the present with a shinier sense of purpose. It's allowing those who aren't privileged enough to be stewards of the land to enter into that world, even if only for a few hours. And through doing that, without listening to a sermon or reading a book, they are experiencing those values and then they can take it home.” - Ann Evans Ready for a delicious food and wine vacation in Yolo County? Plan your own road trip at VisitYolo.com. Also, please share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we're digging into the Armchair Explorer archives to bring you one of our favorite - and most ridiculous - stories. If Monty Python went on a road trip, this is what it would be. Follow along with journalist Simon Parker as he travels 2,500-miles and two weeks across the length of India … ...in a rickshaw. You read that right. The rickshaw is perhaps the least suitable vehicle on the planet for long distance travel. Used commonly across many parts of Asia, it's basically a three-wheeled moped with a roof on it and room for a couple of passengers to squash in the backseat. It has no sides. It falls over often. It's essentially a glorified lawn mower. Dreamt up by a load of nutters called The Adventurists, the Rickshaw Run is all about challenging yourself with proper adventure, whilst belly-laughing at your own ridiculousness at the same time. Simon and four of his friends traveled from the far reaches of northern India, in the shadow of the Himalayas, all the way to the steamy jungles of Kerala on the southern coast. There was no set route. No pre-planned stops or hotels. No convoy or safety car or back up of any kind. Smart phones are scoffed at; Google maps are barred. They simply set off with a pocket map of India and a vague sense of where the finish line was. What would happen in between? Nobody was certain - that was the point. FIND SIMON AND THE ADVENTURISTS Follow Simon's work and see his photography on his website, SimonWParker.co.uk, or on Instagram and social media @SimonWiParker. Considering a rickshaw run yourself? Learn more about all the crazy exploits of the Adventurists at TheAdventurists.com. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, armchair-explorer.com, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website at APTpodcaststudios.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The 'Old West' is alive and well in Laramie, a small city at the southern edge of Wyoming's great expanse. Here, ghosts of outlaws stalk the streets as the bustle of 21st century commerce and culture whirs to life. This is a pioneering town to its core - a place where layers of history intermingle with the ever-evolving, trailblazing present. And today, you'll come to see why Laramie is known as the place where 'the Old West meets the New.' Join us as we embrace the cowboy lifestyle in its entirety - from booting up with Western apparel to going horseback riding, sitting around a campfire, and even visiting the infamous Wyoming Territorial Prison - the only one to ever hold the legendary Butch Cassidy. By the end of the episode, you'll be ready to saddle up and ride! Interested in recreating some of the experiences from today's episode? Plan your trip at VisitLaramie.org. Also, please share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wildlife poaching is a complicated problem. But for many years, most anti-poaching groups had only one way of fighting it. Many organizations adopted the same formula: A battalion of men, armed to the teeth, ready to act as a last line of defense between the poachers and the animals. But these efforts lacked community stewardship - they didn't build solutions, they burned bridges. They were costly, they were deadly, and they were lacking one critical thing: Women. Now, Akashinga - Africa's first all-women, plant-based, armed anti-poaching group - has forged a new model for anti-poaching and conservation. Beginning as a group of 16 women, Akashinga is now over 600 strong, protecting over 9 million acres across several countries. Each Akashinga ranger comes directly from the communities that she is working to protect. And the ripple effects are massive, shifting conservation into something truly community-led and sustainable. Despite their revolutionary approach, the group was founded by somebody who never expected to be working in anti-poaching. Damien Mander is an Australian who began his career working in some of the most elite military groups in the world. When he developed a passion for anti-poaching, he knew he had to do something. "I had two things," he says, "and those were particular set of skills, and some money." So he liquidated his life savings to train the first class of the women who would become the original Akashinga Rangers. This is a story about how to truly build change from the ground up, how to protect what matters most, and how to harness one of the most powerful forces on this planet - women - to create a more vibrant future for everyone. FIND AKASHINGA AND DAMIEN Learn more about Akashinga on their website, Akashinga.org. You can watch the National Geographic short film titled 'Akashinga: The Brave Ones' on National Geographic's website or on Disney Plus. You can also follow them on Instagram, Facebook, X, and other social channels @weareakashinga. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website. Cover artwork courtesy of Akashinga.org. In-episode video excerpts from the short film courtesy of National Geographic and Akashinga. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you known him as Sasquatch, Bigfoot, Yeti, Thla'Thla, Sninik, or something else, you've heard the legends - the stories of the hairy mountain man who lives, as writer John Zada says, "in primeval nature and collective memory." And today, we're plunging deep into Canada's ancient forests to find him. But make no mistake - this isn't Bigfoot searching like you've seen before. There are no infrared cameras, scanners, or traps. Instead, we'll follow John as he listens and learns from Canada's First Nations peoples, framing his investigation within a greater story of indigenous myth, community, and sacred land. When John first began hearing about a flurry of Sasquatch sightings, he was visiting the Heiltsuk Nation in British Columbia on an unrelated assignment. But he couldn't shake the stories from his mind. Intrigued, he decided to embark on a trip dedicated entirely to following these stories to their roots. And in so doing, he uncovered something that goes much deeper than footprints or rumors. This is a story about monsters - but it's also one that tells us about ourselves. And along the way, it's about the power of myth, the need for environmental activism, and the tangled webs of our own psyches. FIND JOHN Get a copy of John's book, In the Valleys of the Noble Beyond: In Search of the Sasquatch, online or from your local bookstore. Connect with John and see more of his work, including his photography, at his website johnzada.com, and follow him on Instagram @JohnZada. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I'm joined by Aaron Millar, host of the Armchair Explorer podcast, to share the top lessons he's gathered through his conversations with some of the world's greatest adventurers.  In this episode, Aaron shares his favorite stories from travelers who have trekked through Africa in search of their next “thing,” traveled along the Oregon Trail to escape predictability, ran towards their fears in the Brazillian Amazon, and rowed across the Atlantic while battling Cushing's disease, among many others. These remarkable stories hold valuable lessons about breaking out of the mold, pushing past our fears, and daring to be alive. Which story was most inspiring to you? How will you take these lessons and integrate them into your own life? I'd love to hear your thoughts and hope you'll share them by sending me an audio message. Premium Passport: Want access to the private Zero To Travel podcast feed, a monthly bonus episode (decided on by YOU), exclusive content, direct access to me to answer your questions, and more? Click here to try Premium Passport for only $1. Tune In To Learn: A lesson on courage and why it's so important to actively choose your own path in life Why your adventurous life and “normal” life can coexist How following your passions allows you to better serve others Why facing your fears and embracing uncertainty is the real catalyst for change How culture shock can change the world What being put into extreme situations teaches you about letting go And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Today's Sponsors - US Bank, Loop Earplugs Hear more stories on the Armchair Explorer podcast  Want More? The World Walk (Trilogy): Lessons From A 7 Year Walk Around The World w/ Tom Turcich Adventure and Conservation: A 6000 km Tuk Tuk Journey Through Africa “Universe, I Trust You” – An Experiment on Letting Go with Roberta Mussato Thanks To Our Sponsors This episode is also sponsored by US Bank's Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card, with the ability to earn up to 5x the points on travel-related expenses like hotels, and rental cars, this card will get you the most return on your next trip.  Upgrade your sleep at home and on the road! Get 10% off your pair of Loop Earplugs by visiting www.loopearplugs.com/zerototravel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today we're sitting down with ASP alumni, Aaron Millar, from episode 614, to talk about some of his early quirky adventures and how that led to the storytelling he does today over at the Armchair Explorer podcast and Armchair Productions. A 100-mile pub crawl, cliff camping, and walking the perimeter of London are all in today's episode!Aaron Millar is an award-winning travel writer, journalist, author, and podcaster. He contributes regularly to The Times of London, National Geographic Traveler (UK), and many other national and international publications. He has presented travel documentaries for National Geographic TV, written two books for London publisher Icon - 50 Greatest Wonders of the World & 50 Greatest National Parks of the World - and is the 2014 and 2017 British Guild of Travel Writers Travel Writer of the Year. His podcasts have been nominated for two Webbys, and won the 2022 British Guild of Travel Writers Travel Broadcaster of the Year.Learn more about Aaron's show and company below:https://www.armchair-explorer.com/https://www.armchair-productions.com/Sponsor Messages:Roark The best travel gear isn't born in a factory, it's inspired by journeys taken by real people exploring the world. Their team pulls design inspiration straight from the cultures and climates of new destinations to create clothing and gear tailored for travel and adventure sports. For a limited time, as one of our listeners, you can get 15% off your first order! Just go to roark.com and use promo code ASP15 at checkout Visit Yosemite Yosemite is by far my favorite place in the world! I would love for every Adventure Sports Podcast listener to go there and see why I'm always talking about it. You can get started on your own adventure at TravelYosemite.com. Wonderul PistachiosThe key to any good adventure, big or small, is having great snacks. Keep yourself full and focused on all summer adventures, from dropping the kiddos off at camp, to running between meetings with Wonderful Pistachios They come in a variety of flavors and sizes, perfect for enjoying with family and friends or taking them with you on the go. Unlike meat, protein-powered pistachios are naturally cholesterol-free and add fiber to your day. Visit WonderfulPistachios.com to learn more.Better HelpThis episode is sponsored by/brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/ADVENTURESPORTS and get on your way to being your best self.Green ChefGreen Chef delivers everything you need to cook delicious dinners at home. We send seasonal organic ingredients and chef-crafted recipes right to your doorstep. Ingredients come pre-portioned and prepped, saving time. Our recipes are so easy to prepare, anyone can do it—yes, even if you can't make toast. Green Chef offers meal plans for all tastes, from paleo to vegan, and more.Website: https://www.greenchef.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Green Chef and use my code asp250 for a great deal: https://www.greenchef.com/asp250* Check out Oris Watches: https://www.oris.ch* Check out Roark and use my code ASP15 for a great deal: https://roark.com/* Check out Shopify and use my code asp for a great deal: https://www.shopify.com/aspSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adventure-sports-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Estes Park was founded more than 100 years ago, and of course it was inhabited for thousands of years before then by the Ute and Arapaho Native American tribes. You don't get that kind of history without a few tall tales building up along the way; legends and ghost stories retold through generations. But myths are more than just tales. They are a part of living history, part of the fabric of a place passed from campfire to campfire, woven through the land in the invisible threads of our imagination. And by following those threads, we'll not only have some fun, but we'll also see a side to these Rocky Mountains that most people don't even know exist. This episode follows three different stories: the Earl of Dunraven, the legend of the blue mist and the story behind the keys at the Seven Keys Lodge, which historically was called the Baldpate Inn. Two of these stories are told by Estes Park's professional storyteller, Kurtis Kelly. Learn more about historic characters from Estes Park through Kurtis' upcoming events or book a private show. Learn more about the Earl of Dunraven here. Learn more about the haunted sides of the Seven Keys Lodge and the blue mist here.  The Seven Keys Lodge opened their tasting room this past summer in their famous key room marveled about in this episode. Here you will find handcrafted cocktails and a variety of an ever-changing menu of food. Armchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Those are my heroes, those guys paved the way for me to be able to travel through this country, free, and they're almost superhuman to me.”   -        - Erick Cedeño, Bicycle Nomad In 2013, Erick Cedeño, aka. Bicycle Nomad, came across an old photograph that changed his life. Taken in 1897, it showed 20 black soldiers riding bicycles across the American West. As he dug deeper, he learned that these were the Buffalo Soldiers, an all-black infantry regiment formed after the civil war. The photo was taken during a grueling 1,900-mile journey, in which they traveled by bike from Montana to Missouri in order to test the efficacy of the bicycle as a form of military transport. To this day, it is one of the most difficult bike trips ever undertaken.  As a black man, growing up in America, Erick had never seen people that looked like him riding bikes. It changed his life, and he knew he had to bring their story back to life. But he did it not by telling it, but by living it - pedaling every mile that they did, sleeping where they slept, eating where they ate, taking the hard roads where modern paved highways do not go. And in doing so he invites us to live it too. “Curiosity drives me. It fuels my insatiable desire to know what's beyond the next bend of the road, to discover what's there beyond the edges of the map. If it is my muscles that propel me forward physically, it is curiosity that propels me mentally.” FIND ERICK CEDENO Follow all Erick's adventures at iambicyclenomad.com, Instagram: @bicycle_nomad, and Facebook:@bicyclenomad SOCIAL If you enjoy this show, please take a minute to leave a review, it makes a huge difference and enables us to keep brining these stories to you. Remember also to subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about our network partner, APT Podcast Studios, on their website. This show was produced by Armchair Productions. Jenny Allison and Aaron Millar wrote and produced it; Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Theme music by the artist Sweet Chap. Find our other shows: armchair-productions.com   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Armchair Explorer goes on-location! "Whiskey is a combination of fire, water, wood, time - and feelings." Join host Aaron Millar as he samples a recipe as old as the Revolutionary War; visits a haunted prison that distills one-of-a-kind moonshine; meets a mad scientist blending chemistry and artistry in the glass; and learns the untold tale of the legendary whiskey maker that the world never got to meet. Spanning 600 miles across the state of Tennessee, the Tennessee Whiskey Trail takes visitors through dozens of craft distilleries where no sip is like the last. Along the way, distillers share the inspiring - and often grisly - stories behind whiskey production in Tennessee, illustrate the process of creating a unique flavor, and of course, offer some delicious pours. Whether or not you're already a whiskey drinker, this episode will have you ready to pour a glass! How about a musical chaser with that glass? The Whiskey Trail has a sister series exploring the soundtrack of America, made in Tennessee! Produced in a documentary style, the Tennessee Music Pathways series takes listeners on a more than 1,000-mile road trip, from Bristol and the birth of country music to Memphis and the start of rock n' roll. Along the way, listeners will hear bluegrass played fast as lightning and traditional Appalachian music performed live in the Great Smoky Mountains. Follow along as host Aaron Millar shops in Elvis' favorite clothing store, bangs drums in the studio that made Uptown Funk, learns to play the spoons and drinks whiskey in a distillery housed in a more than 100-year-old former prison. The Tennessee Whiskey Trail knits together 25 distilleries across the state, offering visitors an immersive experience rich with history, culture, and taste. Learn more and plan your visit at TNWhiskeyTrail.com. The Tennessee Music Pathways is a guide that connects visitors to the rich musical heritage of our state. Visitors can curate their own path based on interests using an interactive guide at TNmusicpathways.com. Follow the conversation on social media using or searching hashtag #tnmusicpathways. TNvacation.com | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Thank you to our guests: Heath Clark, Company Distilling companydistilling.com Alex Castle, Old Dominick Distilling olddominick.com Bill Lee, Gate 11 Distillery gate11distillery.com Stanton Webster, PostModern Spirits postmodernspirits.com Nick Bianchi, Lost State Distilling loststatedistilling.com Canaan Brock, Brushy Mountain Distillery brushymtndistillery.com Fawn Weaver, Uncle Nearest Distillery unclenearest.com/distillery Visit Memphis memphistravel.com Visit Chattanooga visitchattanooga.com Visit Knoxville visitknoxville.com Discover Bristol discoverbristol.org Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website. This series was produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry. Aaron Millar wrote and presented it, Jason Paton did the field recording and production. Theme music by the artist Sweet Chap Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“When I first decided to do these pilgrimages, I told myself I'm doing this as an investigative reporter. I'm doing it as an observer, and as an outsider … and in the end, that isn't what happened.” Rosemary Mahoney, author The Singular Pilgrim: Travels on Sacred Ground When Rosemary Mahoney got off the ferry at the tiny island of Tinos, in Greece, she witnessed something extraordinary. Pilgrims dressed in black exited the boat and immediately flung themselves to the ground, crawling on hands and knees to worship at a shrine at the top of a nearby hill.  Watching these men and women rolling in the dirt, sweating beneath a scorching sun, she asked herself a simple question. Every human culture that has ever existed has had some concept of the divine, however you define that. She wanted to understand why. Her search for an answer began a remarkable journey to undertake six of the world's most prominent religious pilgrimages. Her journey would take her from the Way of St James, trekking hundreds of miles across the Pyrenees of southern France and Spain, to the burning ghats of Varanasi, on the banks of the Ganges River, in India, and beyond. This isn't a story about religion, or faith. It is an investigation into one of the most fundamental, but little understood, aspects of humanity. It is a quest to discover the roots of belief itself. And to find it, she will have to travel to six countries, walk hundreds of miles, and stare death in the face.  Insightful, evocative, and inspiring. Rosemary's story is an adventure into the heart of what it means to be human. FIND ROSEMARY Get a copy of Rosemary's book The Singular Pilgrim: Travels on Sacred Ground, online or from your local bookstore. Find out more about her work at rosemarymahoney.net. Facebook: @RosemaryMahoneyWriter SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website. This show was produced by Armchair Productions. Jenny Allison and Aaron Millar wrote and produced it; Charles Tyrie did the audio editing and sound design. Theme music by the artist Sweet Chap. Find our other shows: armchair-productions.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“One ironic anxiety of travel is that suddenly you're living in 'organic time' and you're not used to it.”  –Rolf Potts In this "vagabonding audio companion" episode of Deviate, remixed from Aaron Millar's Armchair Explorer podcast, Rolf talks about his earliest travel dreams, and what compelled him to finally take a vagabonding dream trip around North America by van in his early twenties (2:00); how travel expectations and planning are often at odds with the joy of what happens spontaneously on the road (8:30); the delightful surprises Rolf found on a recent trip to Sumatra and the Mentawai Islands (11:30); Rolf's experiences in Myanmar, and the importance of seeing time, rather than possessions, as our most important form of wealth in life (22:00); Rolf's early experiences in Southeast Asia, and his monthlong boat journey down the Mekong River (31:00); and how, at its best, travel teaches us to pay attention to life itself (35:00). The Armchair Explorer podcast features adventure storytelling set to music and cinematic effects. Notable Links: Vagabonding, by Rolf Potts (book) The Vagabond's Way, by Rolf Potts (book) Souvenir, by Rolf Potts (book) Van Life before #VanLife (Deviate episode) Uinta Mountains (mountain range in Utah) Mardi Gras (annual celebration in New Orleans) Sumatra (island in Indonesia) "Travel in Sumatra is cheap and amazing" (dispatch) "Seeking crowds is better than crowd-sourcing" (dispatch) Mentawai Islands (archipelago in Indonesia) "Boredom is one of the greatest gifts of travel" (dispatch) Hornbill (tropical bird) Bessie Stringfield (20 century American motorcycle traveler) Bagan (UNESCO World Heritage Site in Myanmar) Mekong (river in Southeast Asia) "One Month on the Mekong," by Rolf Potts (travel essay) Henry David Thoreau (American essayist and philosopher) The Deviate theme music comes from the title track of Cedar Van Tassel's 2017 album Lumber. Note: We don't host a “comments” section, but we're happy to hear your questions and insights via email, at deviate@rolfpotts.com.

"Half of planet Earth is still completely unexplored...and nobody seems to be paying attention." When Victor Vescovo learned in 2016 that nobody had been to the deepest point of four of the five's oceans, he was flabbergasted...and he was up for the challenge. Victor had earned his pilot's license at only nineteen, and he had spent much of his life pursuing adventure. He was one of the only people in the world to complete the Explorer's Grand Slam, during which he climbed to the highest peak on every continent and skied to both Poles. But he had never been far below the surface - and he quickly became obsessed with the idea. He assembled a world class crew and tasked them with an extremely ambitious mission: Build a deep-sea submersible more durable, safe, and sturdy than anything in existence. Previously, subs had been built to survive one deep-sea dive. But Victor's team needed to figure out a way to replicate it - for at least five dives - if they wanted a shot at breaking this record. And the mission wasn't purely adventure for adventure's sake. The ocean's depths are quickly becoming more and more critical for climate change science, species conservation, and more, and Victor knew that the science to be found under the surface was something that could be life-changing for the entire globe. Riveting, inspiring, and terrifying all at once, Victor's story will take you deeper into the truth about our planet than anybody has ever been. FIND VICTOR Get a copy of Victor's book Expedition Deep Ocean, written by Josh Young, online or from your local bookstore. You can also catch the docu-series of the same title on Amazon Prime. Learn more about the Five Deeps Expedition at FiveDeeps.com, learn more about Victor's aquatic pursuits at his Caladan Oceanic website. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What constitutes a life well lived? When Darcy Gaechter turned 35, her life was everything she had hoped it would be. She had a loving partner, a rewarding job as a kayak expedition guide, and hard-won fame within the competitive world of whitewater kayaking. By her own measures, she was living the dream. And yet, many of her friends and family looked at her life and saw only what she did not have - a husband, children, a traditional high-paying office job. Listening to them, doubts began to take root in Darcy's mind. Maybe, she decided, it was finally time to surrender her wild lifestyle and join the more stable - if not more boring - upper crusts of well-behaved society. But before she could do that...she had one final adventure to take. It was an adventure so ambitious, so wild and deadly and unprecedented, that she believed it could cure her of her seemingly bottomless desire to tackle these quests, to chase the next horizon. And thus, mere months after her birthday, she found herself dipping her paddle into the frigid source waters of the Amazon, ready to kayak through its innumerable dangers - natural and manmade - in the following months. Whether you're interested in kayaking, Amazonian culture and indigenous history, the interpersonal dynamics of expeditions, or all of the above, this episode is sure to engross you - from beginning to end. FIND DARCY Follow Darcy on Instagram @darcygaechter, and hear about her latest projects, events, and more on her website. The book she wrote about her Amazonian adventure is called Amazon Woman: Facing Fears, Chasing Dreams, and a Quest to Kayak the Longest River From Source to Sea. Get your copy today online or at your favorite bookstore (we especially love local bookstores)! Want to kayak with Darcy? Book a trip with her adventure company, Small World Adventures, and enjoy some of the best paddling Ecuador has to offer. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Armchair Explorer is back! We're so excited to launch our new season as part of APT Podcast Studios, the newly launched podcast network of American Public Television. As part of our new season, we'll be releasing episodes every week. That's right - Armchair Explorer is now a weekly show! Between signature episodes, keep your eyes peeled for our brand new 'On Location' episodes, airing every other week. Each of these documentary-style episodes was recorded on location - from the peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the deserts of California - in order to capture the sounds and stories of each place. You won't want to miss out, so make sure to subscribe! TODAY'S EPISODE When Rinker Buck decided to cross the Oregon Trail in an authentic 1883 wagon, he had no idea what to expect. "I knew that naïveté was the mother of adventure," he wrote, "I just didn't know how much of it I really had." For somebody like Rinker, who was interested in the history of the Oregon Trail, there were several easier, faster, and safer ways to explore it. But Rinker wasn't interested in them. He wanted, as he calls it, "the sensual feast of traveling in the open air;" the chance not just to learn about history, but to actually experience it. And so Rinker, his brother Nick, and their pack of three mules - Beck, Jake, and Bute - set off on a months-long journey that sent them through fields of blooming wildflowers, across turbulent rivers, beneath starry skies, and nearly over the sides of cliffs. And through it all, they came to see America's history - and the history of the West - not as it had been taught in school, but as it really was. Whether you're an Oregon Trail buff or you've never even played the computer game, this episode is sure to surprise, delight, and thoroughly entertain. FIND RINKER Follow Rinker's work through his publisher, Simon & Schuster, where you can also find the link to his book, The Oregon Trail: A New American Journey. And don't forget to check out his latest book, Life on the Mississippi: An Epic American Adventure, which you can find online or at your favorite bookstore (we especially love local bookstores)! SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Subscribe to the podcast wherever you're listening, follow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook, check out Armchair Explorer's website, and learn more about APT Podcast Studios on their website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Armchair Explorer, where the world's greatest adventurers tell their best stories from the road! Hailed as "inspiring storytelling" from the New York Times, each documentary-style episode drops you into the heart of the action - from the heart-pounding to the inspiring, the unusual, the deadly, the hilarious, and the downright jaw-dropping. Armchair Explorer is now proud to be part of APT Podcast Studios, the podcast arm of American Public Television! Our upcoming season will feature stories from some of the most remote corners of the planet, from diving to the bottom of the Mariana trench to tracking the elusive snow leopard, completing the first kayak descent of the entire Amazon river, and more. And, every other week, we'll be dropping a brand new "On Location" episode. These award-winning special episodes were recorded in surround sound and captured on location in order to share the stories and voices of destinations around the globe. Join us as we trace the origins of jazz in Tennessee, sail to remote islands in the Florida Keys, go horseback riding with real cowboys in Wyoming, and more! Learn more about Armchair Explorer at armchair-explorer.com and find APT Podcast Studios at aptpodcaststudios.com.

Strap in for a freezing conclusion as Jillian and Haley wrap up the South Pole Race extravaganza of Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott. Sources: The Worst Journey in the World, Apsley Cherry-Garrard Amundsen Expedition Timeline,  American Museum of National History Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, Terra Nova Expedition, Amundsen's South Pole Expedition, Wikipedia

Take a musical journey around the world ~ inspired by the book Armchair Explorer, DJ Erica picks 12 pages from the book at random, taking us to 12 different countries. Enjoy music from Slovakia, Peru, Cambodia, Wales, Lesotho, Costa Rica and more!

30 Best Travel Podcasts of 2023 Hear Kit's popular annual list of the best travel podcasts to check out for 2023.  There are many new ones on the list, so you are sure to find a new favorite! Listen to the podcast and see details on each podcast recommended  HERE 1. Active Travel Adventures 2. AdventuRetired Listen to my interview about full time traveling  3. Amateur Traveler Listen to my interview on the Crystal Coast of NC 4. Armchair Explorer 5. BBC Ramblings 6. Business Travel 360 7. Conde Nast Traveler Escape Routes 8. Eye on Travel with Peter Greenberg 9. Frommer's 10. JUMP  11. Out of Office 12. The Atlas Obscura Podcast 13. The Big Travel Podcast 14. The Overland Journal Podcast 15. The Thoughtful Travel Podcast 16. The Travel Diaries 17. The TravelPulse Podcast 18. The Trip the Changed Me 19. Tips for Travellers 20. Travel Goals Podcast 21. Travel Tales 22. Travel Tales by AFAR 23. Travel with Meaning 24. Travel with Rick Steves 25. UK Travel Planning 26. Untold Italy 27. We Travel There 29. Women Who Travel 30. Zero To Travel Listen to my interview about taking a cheap Alaskan Cruise (by ferry!) Did I Miss One of Your Favorites? Let me know – you can reach me here.  Get FREE Travel Planners for ATA adventures (and each month you will get an email from Kit with links to all future Travel Planners (no spam promise!).  Get the monthly newsletter here. CONTACT KIT Resources  Promo Codes and Recommended Tour Companies Travel Insurance:  Quickly and easily compare rates and policies from different companies Amazon Kit's Picks  Please use my Amazon link to access your Amazon account.  Even if you don't purchase any of my recommendations, I get credit for anything you DO purchase - at no additional cost to you, you'll be helping to support the show and keeping it AD FREE:) SUBSCRIBE to the Adventure Travel Show (the “How to's of adventure travel) SUBSCRIBE to Active Travel Adventures (fantastic adventure destinations) Join the Active Travel Adventures Facebook Group Follow ATA on Twitter Follow ATA on Instagram Follow ATA on Pinterest (C) Active Travel Adventures – All Rights Reserved

“This style of reindeer herding is truly the last of its kind…and I wanted us to be the first group to experience it.”The Nenets of Siberia's Yamal Peninsula are among the world's oldest existing true nomads, making a living by herding reindeer in a place that literally translates to ‘the end of the world.' And when Christine Amour-Levar learned that she had a third-degree connection to the tribe, she set about arranging an unprecedented trek to accompany them during their southward migration. Five months later, she was leading the largest - and only all-female - group that the Nenets had ever hosted, as they prepared to live, migrate, and journey alongside the tribe for a week.Cozy up and get ready for an episode where the temperatures reach -100ºF, the Northern Lights guide the way, and the only way to survive is to stick together - and occasionally consume fresh reindeer blood.FIND CHRISTINE Follow Christine Amour-Levar on Instagram (@christineamourlevar) or visit her website at christineamourlevar.com for more incredible stories, photos of her expeditions, and more. You can also find her book, Wild Wisdom: Life Lessons From Leading Teams to Some of the Most Inhospitable Places in the World, online or at your local bookstore. Finally, we encourage you to learn more about her two nonprofit organizations, Women on a Mission and HER Planet Earth, where you can volunteer, donate - or even sign up for an upcoming expedition yourself!SPONSORS Thank you to our amazing sponsor, The North Face, for supporting this episode! When you wear The North Face, it's more than a jacket…it's the calling to get out there and explore. Find your next fleece, parka, or winter jacket at thenorthface.com.Also, check out our new show, Hidden Trails of Oregon, which is out now! It's an immersive first-person journey - recorded on location with surround sound audio - across this weird, wild, and wonderful state. You'll hear Aaron go beyond the guidebook to discover the secrets only locals know! Find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you find podcasts.SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!

"Did you even hear a single word I just said?"This question, asked of writer Bruce Kirkby one morning by his ten year old son, catalyzed a life-changing journey. Bruce and his wife, Christine, decided to break the cycle of 21st-century distraction by relocating their family - complete with two young boys - to a remote Buddhist monastery in Ladakh, India for three months.  But before they would reach the monastery, they would travel for nearly 100 days - via container ship, fishing boats, horseback, and even by foot - to reach this remote valley. This episode will whisk you away to a rugged, captivating place filled with even more fascinating people - and it will delight, frighten, inspire, and surprise you at every turn.FIND BRUCE Follow Bruce on Instagram (@brucekirkby) or visit his website at brucekirkby.com to find his photography, previous expeditions, books, and more. You can find Blue Sky Kingdom, his book describing his family's entire journey, at your local bookstore or online!SPONSORS Thank you to our amazing sponsor, The North Face, for supporting this episode! When you wear The North Face, it's more than a jacket…it's the calling to get out there and explore. Find your next fleece, parka, or winter jacket at thenorthface.com.Also, check out our new show, Hidden Trails of Oregon, which is out now! It's an immersive first-person journey - recorded on location with surround sound audio - across this weird, wild, and wonderful state. You'll hear Aaron go beyond the guidebook to discover the secrets only locals know! Find it on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you find podcasts.SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!

“You stand at the edge of the boat - and you take a giant stride into the unknown.” Today we're chatting with Pier Nirandara, a bestselling author, film producer, SCUBA diver and underwater photographer. She's dedicated her life to sharing the beauty and importance of this marine world about which we still know so little. With her work in photography, writing, and more, she's also helping to shape a new generation of divers and ocean advocates from all corners of the world. In the episode, you'll hear about the dive that changed her life and stopped her career path in its tracks; how it feels to share the water with some of the world's rarest, most ancient sea creatures; and why exploring the ocean and encountering marine wildlife is more important than ever. This episode will inspire and move you to consider all the life that exists beneath the water's surface - and what we owe to it. FIND PIER Follow Pier on Instagram (@piersgreatperhaps) and Facebook, or visit her website at piernirandara.com to find her amazing photography, articles, books, TED Talk, and more. She also leads snorkeling and diving expeditions all around the globe, so if you want to experience some of the adventures you heard in the episode firsthand, you can find those on her website too. SPONSORS THANK YOU to our amazing sponsor, The North Face, for supporting this episode! When you wear The North Face, it's more than a jacket…it's the calling to get out there and explore. Find your next fleece, parka, or winter jacket at thenorthface.com.And thank you to our other sponsor, Juggernaut Wines! Get four bottles of their delicious wines delivered to your home for only 1 cent in shipping costs. Just head over to juggernautwines.com and use code ARMCHAIR21.SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!

“The best way to travel? Dare to be lonely, lost, and bored.”Today we're joined by travel-writing legend Rolf Potts, best-selling author and pioneer of indie travel. Long before the era of contemporary van life and digital nomadism, Rolf's first book, Vagabonding, inspired countless travelers to forgo expensive, overly planned travel in favor of affordable, spontaneous exploration. And with his new book, The Vagabond's Way, he's sharing some of his best stories and pearls of wisdom from a lifetime spent traveling the world - including why you should never trust reviews, how inconvenience can lead to extraordinary discoveries, and why boredom while traveling is a gift.  Whether or not you've already familiar with Rolf, this episode will surprise, delight, and teach you about why we travel - and how we can bring our travels home with us.  FIND ROLF Follow Rolf on Instagram @rolfpotts, or visit his website at rolfpotts.com to find his books, articles, blog, videos, writing courses, and more. You can also find his newest book, The Vagabond's Way: 366 Meditations on Wanderlust, Discover, and the Art of Travel at your local bookstore or online. There are several stories and reflections in there that we didn't have time to cover, so we highly recommend you pick up a copy for yourself! SPONSORS  THANK YOU to our amazing sponsor, The North Face, for supporting this episode! When you wear The North Face, it's more than a jacket…it's the calling to get out there and explore. Find your next fleece, parka, or winter jacket at thenorthface.com. And thank you to our other sponsor, Juggernaut Wines! Get four bottles of their delicious wines delivered to your home for only 1 cent in shipping costs. Just head over to juggernautwines.com and use code ARMCHAIR21. SOCIAL Share the show with your friends! Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!

“I jump off buildings and cliffs for fun. And I don't recommend it to anyone.”Dive into heart-pounding adventures with Jeb Corliss, one of the world's most revered BASE jumpers and wingsuit pilots. In this episode, you'll hear Jeb recount some of his most impactful stories, from the very first time he attempted BASE jumping to the incident that nearly put him off the sport for good. His energy and his vivid storytelling puts you right in the middle of the action - whether you're plummeting off a 300-foot antenna in the middle of the night or soaring dangerously close to rocky cliffs. So buckle up - you'll be on the edge of your seat from start to finish.FIND JEBFollow Jeb's adventures on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook @jebcorliss, or visit his website at jebcorliss.net to see his photos, videos, documentaries, and more. You can also find his book, Memoirs From the Edge: Exploring the Line Between Life and Death at select bookstores or on Amazon. There are tons of heart-pounding stories in there that we didn't have time to cover, so we highly recommend you pick up a copy for yourself!SPONSORSTHANK YOU to our new sponsor, The North Face, for supporting this episode! When you wear The North Face, it's more than a jacket…it's the calling to get out there and explore. Find your next fleece, parka, or winter jacket at thenorthface.com.And thank you to our other amazing sponsor, Juggernaut Wines! Get four bottles of their delicious wines delivered to your home for only 1 cent in shipping costs. Just head over to juggernautwines.com and use code ARMCHAIR21.SOCIALShare the show with your friends! Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!

What does it take to really know a place? When Jordan Salama arrived in Colombia for the first time, he realized immediately that it was a country that was deeply misunderstood. For a place so often associated with violence, Jordan found himself in a country teeming with rugged beauty, welcoming communities, vibrant music, and astonishing art. Jordan wanted to dive deeper. To do so, he heeded the advice of locals, who told him that to really know Colombia, he needed to sail along the Magdalena River. The Magdalena is the beating heart of Colombia's countryside, flowing all the way from soaring southern peaks to windswept northern shores. And while Jordan suspected that he would gain a deeper understanding of Colombia, he had no idea how profoundly it would change his life. Along the way, he befriended people whose passions had carried them both hundreds of miles into the countryside and no farther than their front porch; he slogged through mud and paddled in canoes; he held tightly to wind-whipped kites and spun to music, dancing the lines between fable and reality. Whether you already know Colombia or you're curious to learn more, Jordan's story will open your eyes and touch your heart in unexpected ways.  HIGHLIGHTS - Trek into the far reaches of Colombia's rugged jungles, traveling to archaeological sites that are only reachable on foot or on horseback - Meet the world-famous Biblioburro, Colombia's one-man (and two-donkey) roaming library - Ride the unusual motobalinera, an improvised mode of transport you'll have to hear to believe - Come face to face with nature in a hair-raising encounter with Pablo Escobar's wild hippos - Journey to dreamlike town of Mompox, the fabled inspiration behind Gabriel García Marquez's Macondo - Experience the joys, sorrows, and wonders of Colombia, perhaps the most misunderstood country in the world FIND JORDAN  Follow Jordan's work at jordansalama.com, where you'll find links to his articles in National Geographic, The New York Times, and more. You can also find him on Instagram and TikTok @jordansalama19. As you'll hear in this episode, Jordan is a beautiful writer and his book, Every Day the River Changes, is an incredible read. There are some great stories in there that didn't make it into the episode, so grab your copy at your local bookstore or online at Barnes & Noble and Amazon! SPONSORS  A HUGE thank you to our new and incredible sponsor, The North Face, for supporting this episode! When you wear The North Face, it's more than a jacket…it's the calling to get out there and explore. Find your next fleece, parka, or winter jacket at thenorthface.com. And thank you to our other amazing sponsor, Juggernaut Wines! Get four bottles of their delicious wines delivered to your home for only 1 cent in shipping costs. Just head over to juggernautwines.com and type in the code ARMCHAIR21. SOCIAL  Share the show with your friends! Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer's website for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show! 

What happens when adventuring goes suddenly, horribly wrong? For Jean Muenchrath, what began as a pleasant cross-country ski trip up the John Muir trail quickly spiralled into disaster - and what happened changed her life forever. Journey back in time with us to hear one of the most gripping survival stories that occurred over three decades ago in the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Jean's story stands as a testament to the power of the mind, the importance of dreams, and the sheer force of will.Jean and her skiing partner, Ken, spent weeks on the John Muir trail in the middle of winter immersing themselves with nature. They trekked through snow-laden meadows and climbed up towering granite cliffs slicked with ice, enjoying the labour and the peace of nature's rhythm. But as they neared the end of their journey and prepared to ascend Mount Whitney - the tallest mountain in the contiguous United States - Jean began to fear, intuitively, that something was about to go horribly wrong. And, as we'll find out, she should have listened to that voice.This is a story of survival against the odds. But it's also a story about the power of the mind to overcome even the most difficult and desperate situations that life can throw at us. Jean used her accident as fuel to transform her life in positive ways, and her story will inspire you to face life's hardships with courage, grace and determination too. Get ready for a near-death encounter at the top of the world.Highlights:- Follow the nail-biting story of Jean Muenchrath's near-death encounter at Mount Whitney- Ski the 211-mile long John Muir Trail in winter, from its start in Yosemite Valley to its conclusion at the top of Mount Whitney, the tallest point in the Lower 48 states- Hear what it's like to survive one of the worst accidents in Mount Whitney's history- Hike the Himalayas and watch the sunset over Everest- Learn what Jean found in the snow when she returned to the scene of her accident, 31 years after it happened- Be inspired to use the power of your mind, just like Jean did, to follow your dreams and transform your life in positive waysIf you find this story meaningful, please connect with Jean – she's passionate about getting in touch with her audience and sharing her story. www.jeanmuenchrath.com | Email: bluevajrasky@gmail.com. Her book is called If I Live Until Morning: A True Story of Adventure, Tragedy, and Transformation and you can find it on Amazon here ... You'll get to hear details of her story that we didn't have time for in this podcast, so we highly recommend grabbing a copy.THANK YOU to Juggernaut Wines for sponsoring this episode! We've got a special deal forlisteners of this show. You can get four bottles – two Cabernet Sauvignons and two Pinot Noirs – delivered to your home for only 1 cent in shipping costs. One cent! Just head over tojuggernautwines.com and type in the code ARMCHAIR21. Their wine is absolutely delicious and it's a great way to support the show…that's what we call a win win!Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook, and check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!

Follow acclaimed travel writer Nick Hunt on a journey to walk Europe's outlands – a piece of arctic tundra in Scotland, a primeval forest in Poland, a desert in Spain, the vast grasslands of the Hungarian steppe. These are outlandish places; wild, remote and untamed; places that shouldn't exist, but they do. Like portals in our imagination, these anomalies transport us to faraway regions of the planet. They show us secrets, hidden aspects of our world that would hitherto go unnoticed. They give us glimpses into deep time, and our place in it, and show us, perhaps, the future yet to come. More than anything, they make our world seem larger, stranger and filled with wonder – and that is what great adventures are all about. Get ready to walk among Europe's hidden landscapes ... Who's the guest?Nick Hunt is a beautiful, thoughtful writer and this is a book you will want to savor. It's called ‘Outlandish: Walking Europe's Unlikely Landscapes' and you can find it anywhere you get your books. Check it out, you won't be disappointed. Refer a friend, win $100! If you like this show, and you think your friends might too, then you can win a $100 amazon gift voucher – and an exclusive armchair explorer t-shirt that's so exclusive even I don't have one!  All you need to do is go to www.refer.fm/armchairexplorer type in your email, you'll get sent a link, and then all you need to do is share that link with your friends and family. When they click it and subscribe or follow the show, you will automatically get one referral to your name. Every referral counts as one raffle ticket to win that $100 amazon gift card. Get 10 referrals and on top of entry into the competition you'll also get that exclusive Armchair Explorer t-shirt worth $25. You can even set up while you listen to this episode – it literally takes 2mins . Thank you for helping to spread the word! www.refer.fm/armchairexplorerThank you to our sponsorToday's episode is sponsored by Not Lost, a new podcast about finding yourself in places you've never been. On Not Lost, host Brendan Francis Newnam ventures to new places, exploring what it has to offer, and then, to really understand what it makes tick, tries to get invited to a stranger's house for dinner. A friend joins him at each destination, and they drink, dance, and eat their way from Montréal to Mexico City, often learning as much about themselves as the place they're visiting. Check it out!  Let's hang outFollow @armchairexplorerpodcast on Instagram and Facebook or head over to www.armchair-explorer.com to sign up to our newsletter and get adventure inspiration delivered straight to your inbox twice a month.  

The 2021-2022 winter season has come to a close. At least in the East, with the Beast (Killington) having ceased winter operations. (Corny rhyme intended.) While skiing for most is over until late fall, I'm already back at it, talking up ripping turns by offering a different approach to maximize your mountain experience next season. The approach: don't buy a season pass (megapass). Blasphemy to some, sure, but not buying one enhanced my past ski season in countless ways. So, while you are floating care-free in the salty ocean or fresh water lakes or ponds this summer, mull the non-season pass approach. Also in the episode, Tips Up features a staying in [ski] shape article running like Tom Cruise in Top Gun – Maverick & ShowTime, James Cordon, a great summer road trip from Alaska to Argentina podcast by Armchair Explorer, and a video of skiing on a power plant rooftop in Copenhagen. And NSAA unknowingly provides the industry statistics for the trivia questions and answers. All the best this off-season, Powder Hounds!

Welcome to Wanderlust: Off the page, a podcast designed to help you discover the most fulfilling travel experiences on the planet! From culture and history to nature and wildlife, we're going to be taking you behind the scenes of the magazine to go deeper into our favorite destinations and meet the travel writers, experts, and personalities who will bring our stories to life.Hosted by founding editor Lyn Hughes and special features editor Rosie Fitzgerald, this  episode features a story produced by the award-winning podcast Armchair Explorer and presented by our very own podcast interviewer Aaron Millar. In it, we follow explorer Alice Morrison, another regular contributor to Wanderlust, on a world-first 2,800-mile trek across the entire length of Morocco. Starting in the city of Ouarzazate, at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, we will walk with her from the lush valleys of the Draa River across the barren windswept dunes of the Western Sahara to the tallest peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. We will discover lost cities, tombs of giants, singing sands and dinosaur footprints. We will learn about the lives of the nomadic Sahrawis, the people of the desert, and the Amazigh, the original inhabitants of Morocco. This is more than a long walk, this is a journey through the culture and history of one of the most fascinating and beautiful countries on Earth.But Alice didn't do it just any old way. Mirroring journeys taken by traders and nomads across Morocco for centuries, she decided to travel in a traditional caravan of six camels, led by her two Amazigh companions and camelteers Brahim and Addi. And despite not being very keen on the animals to start with, she ended up falling head-over-heels for them – particularly a very naughty one called Hamish. Yes, that's right – somewhere in Morocco right now, there is a camel called Hamish. This is a story about history and archeology, it's a story about endurance and moments of sublime beauty. But mostly it's a story about a deep exploration of a place and its people. Alice relied on the kindness and hospitality of local communities throughout and because she speaks fluent Arabic she was able to get an intimate insight into their lives that most outsiders would never see.It's also one hell of an adventure. Alice is known as ‘Indiana Jones for Girls'. This is a story that even Indy himself would have been proud of.----To listen to more episodes of Armchair Explorer click here or go to www.armchair-explorer.com ---Wanderlust is the UK's leading independent travel magazine which has been taking the road less travelled since 1993.Learn more at wanderlustmagazine.comBecome a Wanderlust Club Member to join our community of serious travelers for just £35 a year. This will get you 6 beautiful collectible issues, exclusive member- only competitions and events, access to our entire online archive back to 2010, plus heaps of other benefits.This series is brought to you by Battleface travel insurance. Protect your trip at battleface.com/wanderlustWanderlust: Off the Page is produced by Armchair Productions, the audio experts for the travel industry 

This is the full length talk with the world's greatest adventure podcaster Armchair Explorer. We organically, go into depth and get down to all the elements of how to get a podcast going. From gear, ideas, promotion, balance, sound and appearance. There is sure to be something to learn for everybody! From both of us at True Glue talks & Armchair Explorer, thanks for listening. Find Armchair Explorer Podcast on all platforms and/or go check out the beautiful website: https://www.armchair-explorer.com/

Another new person! Aaron and I met on the pod. How I found him is serendipitous as well as topical.  Who's Aaron? Just my new travel buddy. I might never stop saying "Brian May! Brian May!"   Here's what he says in his own words: "Host Aaron Millar is an award-winning travel writer, journalist and author. He contributes regularly to The Times of London, National Geographic Traveller (UK), and many other national and international publications. He has presented travel documentaries for National Geographic TV, written two books for London publisher Icon - 50 Greatest Wonders of the World & 50 Greatest National Parks of the World - and is the 2014 and 2017 British Guild of Travel Writers Travel Writer of the Year.  Aaron grew up in Brighton, England but is currently hiding out in the Rocky Mountains of Louisville, Colorado. He hates rom-coms, shellfish and gin; he loves sci-fi, sushi and tequila. Like travel? We'll get on well. The Armchair Explorer podcast is adventure storytelling set to music and cinematic effects. Each episode one of the world's greatest adventurers tell their best story from the road." www.Armchair-Explorer.com   Aaron inspired me to add my first ever sound effect to a podcast. It might not be my last cause Simon Drabble did such a great job. Thanks Hun!!! (To those not clear, it is the record scratch/ the world abruptly stopping sound.)   FYI the London Times Galactic article is behind a paywall. Sorry! But you can read another article by Aaron on the matter here: https://www.thebluedotperspective.com/connection/tenerife-stargazing/   Again, if you can't travel the world, bring the world to you via an international foreign student. EF:  https://www.ef.edu/   UK rules: https://www.gov.uk/topic/outdoor-access-recreation/rights-of-way-open-accessWay the world should be: https://visitsweden.com/what-to-do/nature-outdoors/nature/sustainable-and-rural-tourism/the-right-of-public-access/   Books mentioned on pod: Art of Hearing Heartbeats: https://bookshop.org/a/8901/9781590514634 Little Paris Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/8901/9780553418798 Signs of Life: https://bookshop.org/a/8901/9781643131955 Four Fifths A Grizzly: https://bookshop.org/a/8901/9781952338014 Fighting Monks and Burning Mountains: https://www.allbookstores.com/Fighting-Monks-Burning-Mountains-Misadventures/9780990930402 Into the Wild: https://bookshop.org/a/8901/9780385486804 Into Thin Air: https://bookshop.org/a/8901/9780385494786 Notes from a Small Island: https://bookshop.org/a/8901/9780380727506 At Home: https://bookshop.org/a/8901/9780767919395 Geography of Bliss: https://bookshop.org/a/8901/9780446698894 A Short History of Nearly Everything: https://bookshop.org/a/8901/9780767908184   I'm ashamed I couldn't think of Chris McCandless' name during the episode so here's one of his fave quotes and the final photo of him.          

Follow Black Belt travel writer Paul Barach as he treks the 750-mile Shikoku Pilgrimage in Japan. Dedicated to the 8thcentury Buddhist Holy Man, Kukai, Shikoku is the wildest of Japan's four main islands filled with steep mountains, thousand-year-old temples and thick cedar forests. Walked for more than 1,200 years, this is one of the hardest Buddhist pilgrimages in the world and Paul will be doing it all on foot, staying in traditional villages and camping out along the way.But this is more than just a trek. A black belt in bare-fisted full contact Kyokushin karate, Paul had dreamed of coming to Japan since he was a small boy. He had trained hard for this moment. He had dreams of fighting monks on hilltop temples, dodging ninjas or perhaps even meeting a wizened old man on the path who would give him a samurai sword and say: “You're ready.”What he didn't prepare for was the trek. At all. He arrived in Shikoku during the worst heat wave in over 100 years with shoes that didn't fit, a map he couldn't read and no ability to speak Japanese. He survived, but only just.He fought off wild boars and heat stroke. He struggled to find food, water and places to sleep. He was nearly arrested, broke a temple and ended up in hospital. But through that struggle, for fleeting moments, he also caught glimpses of the enlightenment and wisdom he sought. And let's just say all that kung fu training wasn't for nothing either …Highlights include:·      Find out about the 1,200-year-old Shikoku pilgrimage, one of the hardest but also most beautiful pilgrimages in the world·      Join Paul on his many misadventures: wild boar attacks, temple catastrophes, hiding from security guards, hospitalization and more·      Hear about the wisdom and enlightenment Paul found along the way, and how you can benefit from that in your own life too·      See if Paul's dreams of fighting monks on mountain top temples comes true … Paul's book is called ‘Fighting Monks and Burning Mountains: Misadventures on a Buddhist Pilgrimage' and his Instagram is @barachoutdoors … connect with him, he's an awesome guy!Thank you to Wondrium for sponsoring this episode! This is the new name for The Great Courses Plus, but it's now loads more content from documentaries and expert courses to world cinema and more. It's awesome and we've got a deal for you – just go to www.wondrium.com/armchair to get 1 month of content absolutely free. No obligations, just check it out for free. It's a great way to support the show!Check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook

Follow National Geographic wildlife biologist Doug Chadwick to the Gobi Desert of Mongolia in search of the world's rarest bear. There are less than 50 Gobi Grizzlies left in the world and until recently almost no one even knew the existed - including Doug, a self-proclaimed ‘Bear Junkie' who has spent his life studying Grizzly Bears around the world. While tracking snow leopards in the Himalayas he heard about the Gobi Grizzly and swore then and there to try and find them, and do what he could to help save them. This is a story about that adventure. It's a story about Mongolia's Gobi Desert, one of the harshest and most beautiful places on Earth. There are sandstorms and sacred mountains and ticks as big as your thumb. But it's also a story about us. Because through this adventure, and others, Doug has developed a new theory of nature, an entirely new paradigm of how to look at ourselves and the world around us - and it's going to blow your mind. Get ready, because the wind is blowing in the Land of the Eternal Blue Sky and somewhere out there is one of the last 50 Gobi Grizzlies on the planet – and we're going to find her … and in doing that we're going to discover something about our greater selves that may change the way you look at the world forever.Highlights include:·       Track the world's rarest bear through one of the harshest environments on Earth·       Discover the sublime beauty of the Gobi Desert, no trace of the modern world for as far as the eye can see·       Feel what it's like to be hit by a huge sandstorm – a ‘black tsunami' of dust consuming all in its path·       Climb Tsagaan Bogd, one of Mongolia's most sacred peaks·       Find out about Grizzly Bears, here in the Gobi and elsewhere, one of most ferocious, smart and misunderstood animals on the planet·       Hear a new theory of nature that will change the way you understand yourself and the world around you in profound ways Doug's latest book is called ‘4/5th a Grizzly: a New Perspective on Nature that Just Might Save Us All'. It's a beautiful, fascinating and important book and it would make a wonderful present to yourself or anyone that loves and cherishes the outdoors. Thank you to Juggernaut Wines for sponsoring this episode! We've got a special deal for listeners of this show. You can get four bottles – two cabernet sauvignons and two pinot noirs delivered direct to your home for only 1 cent in shipping costs. One cent! Just head over to www.juggernautwines.com and type in the code ARMCHAIR21. Drinking their wine is a great way to support the show … how cool is that?!Check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook 

Follow extreme adventurer Ash Dykes on a world first trek along the entire 4,000-mile length of the Yangtze River in China. Travelling from the Tibetan Plateau in the far northwest of the country, through 11 provinces to the river's estuary near Shanghai in the south he will face innumerable challenges: dodging aggressive Tibetan bears, fighting off wild Tibetan Mastiffs, he was stalked by wolves, arrested and nearly hit by landslides.But through his journey he also explored a side to China that few travellers have seen before, from thundering white-water gorges and spectacular V-shaped valleys to tropical forests and paddy fields teeming with colour.He also became a Chinese celebrity. Much to his surprise, the further he walked the more the Chinese people walked with too. Internet superstars live-streamed beside him to millions of followers, he was celebrated in the Chinese media, welcomed in by locals, taught Chinese opera, kung-fu, meditation and even asked to join a photoshoot with movie star Jackie Huang.It took him 352 days and eight million steps to complete. It was a world-record, the first time anyone had walked the entire length of China's great river, and the experience taught him much. He learned about motivation, about discipline, about the power of visualization – skills and wisdom that can be applied to all aspects of life. But more than anything he learned that you can make impossible things happen if you have the courage to ignore the naysayers, prepare for the struggle as well as the successes, and don't let anything stand in your way. Highlights:·      Hear the incredible story of Ash Dyke's world-recording breaking 4,000-mile trek along the entire length of the Yangtze River·      Find out how Ash survived being stalked by a pack of wolves and fought off wild Tibetan Mastiffs·      Listen to the best worst food story you've ever heard. Spoiler alert: it involves huge worms·      Be inspired by the lessons and wisdom Ash learned on his journey: how he uses visualization to achieve success, how to stay motivated and achieve your goals.If you enjoy this adventure, please connect with Ash – he's a true modern-day explorer and you can you follow along with his crazy adventures. He's a lot of fun to travel with. Instagram: @ash_dykes / Facebook: @ashdykesofficial / Twitter: @ashdykes / You Tube: @ashdykes. His website is www.ashdykes.com and his book is Mission Possible: a Decade of Living Dangerously reveals the spirit, planning, and sheer determination that goes into his world record-breaking adventures. It's an awesome read. Thank you to Juggernaut Wines for sponsoring this episode! We've got a special deal for listeners of this show. You can get four bottles – two cabernet sauvignons and two pinot noirs delivered direct to your home for only 1 cent in shipping costs. One cent! Just head over to www.juggernautwines.com and type in the code ARMCHAIR21. Drinking their wine is a great way to support the show … how cool is that?!Check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show! Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook    

Follow explorer Alice Morrison on a world-first 2,800-mile trek across the entire length of Morocco. Starting in the city of Ouarzazate, at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, we will walk with her from the lush valleys of the Draa River across the barren windswept dunes of the Western Sahara to the tallest peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. We will discover lost cities, tombs of giants, singing sands and dinosaur footprints. We will learn about the lives of the nomadic Sahrawis, the people of the desert, and the Amazigh, the original inhabitants of Morocco. This is more than a long walk, this is a journey through the culture and history of one of the most fascinating and beautiful countries on Earth.But Alice didn't do it just any old way. Mirroring journeys taken by traders and nomads across Morocco for centuries, she decided to travel in a traditional caravan of six camels, led by her two Amazigh companions and camelteers Brahim and Addi. And despite not being very keen on the animals to start with, she ended up falling head-over-heels for them – particularly a very naughty one called Hamish. Yes, that's right – somewhere in Morocco right now, there is a camel called Hamish. This is a story about history and archeology, it's a story about endurance and moments of sublime beauty. But mostly it's a story about a deep exploration of a place and its people. Alice relied on the kindness and hospitality of local communities throughout and because she speaks fluent Arabic she was able to get an intimate insight into their lives that most outsiders would never see.It's also one hell of an adventure. Alice is known as ‘Indiana Jones for Girls'. This is a story that even Indy himself would have been proud of.-- If you enjoy this episode please connect with Alice, you're going to have a lot of fun following her adventures. Her Instagram and Twitter is @aliceoutthere1. Her Facebook is @alicehuntermorrisonadventures and her You Tube channel is alicemorrison.She has three books out, the latest of which is called Adventures in Morocco – she's a great writer and covers loads more than we could fit into this episode. Finally, because I know you love podcasts, please check out hers – it's called Alice in Wanderland and it's one of my favourites.--Thank you to Juggernaut Wines for sponsoring this episode! We've got a special deal for listeners of this show. You can get four bottles – two cabernet sauvignons and two pinot noir delivered direct to your home for only 1 cent in shipping costs. One cent! Just head over to www.juggernautwines.com and type in the code ARMCHAIR21. Drinking their wine is a great way to support the show … how cool is that?!--Check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram 

This episode speaks to award-winning journalist, Aaron Millar. Writer for the likes of The Guardian, CNN, The Independent, The Times and columnist for National Geographic Traveller, Aaron also manages to find time to host the highly successful Armchair Explorer podcast. After leaving his job as a music industry manager in the UK, Aaron now calls the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, USA, his home – with the appeal of 300 days of sunshine a year. In this episode we talk about his focus on appreciating nature and the world around us, as well as where his love of travelling began. He shares stories such as how he managed to interview Brian May and did a 100km pub crawl all in the name of journalism. Choices this week include a country that has the largest continuous area of protected wilderness in the world, a carbon-neutral state considered to be the last ‘Shangri La', which measures gross national happiness rather than gross domestic product, and a place where Aaron says he was ‘the closest to death'. Aaron shares lots of unique tales from some amazing countries, including drinking a cocktail while gazing at glaciers with ice from an iceberg, a ‘sinking wicker teacup' on a rather eventful and long journey to hospital, and getting lost in the mountains, surrounded by wild horses. You can find out more about Aaron by following him on Twitter at @AaronMWriter or by checking out his websites by clicking below: Armchair Explorer podcast Blue Dot Perspective He also has books: The 50 Greatest Wonders of the World and The 50 Greatest National Parks of the World. As usual, spoilers below, don't forget to like, subscribe, rate and share Travel Bubble. . . . Country No.1: Chile Activity: Route of Parks Food: Pisco sour cocktail Anything else ... Karün eyewear Country No.2: India Activity: Stay in a house boat near Kerala, Hampi Food: All – especially fresh fish Country No. 3: Italy Activity: Old Salt Road Food: Local produce with local wine Anything else… Photos of Old Salt Road on Aaron's website Wildcard: Bhutan Top Travel Tip: Trust the kindness of strangers Best Souvenir: Small beer glass from 100km pub crawl Travel Bubble Film Club Pusher, (1996), Denmark Thanks for listening. Follow us on Travel Bubble Facebook and Instagram @TravelBubblePodcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/travelbubblepodcast/message

Follow world record holder Kiko Matthews on a solo row across the Atlantic Ocean: 3,000 nautical miles in 49 Days 7 hours and 15 minutes.   200 women have  completed this challenge, that's it. Only 18 have done it solo. Kiko is the fastest ... and before she started training she hadn't even set foot in a row boat before. But that's not the most remarkable thing about this story. Eight months before she was due to set out Kiko was diagnosed with Cushing's Disease a rare, and often fatal, form of brain cancer. The doctors found a tumour on her pituitary gland at the base of her brain. It was life or death. Most of us would have given up at that point. Not Kiko. She received emergency brain surgery and just a few weeks later got straight back to training. This is a story of an incredible adventure: She faced huge storms, rogue waves that nearly capsized the boat. She paddled with whales, dolphins and sharks. She saw the ocean light up like stars with phosphorescence and felt what it meant to be truly alone and humbled, in the vastness of the ocean.But it's also a story about courage, about mental strength and resilience and her story will inspire you to face your own challenge, to follow your own dream, row your own ocean, whatever that may be. If you enjoy this episode, please connect with Kiko she has a book out about her experience – Kiko: How to break the Atlantic rowing record after brain surgery. Find it at Kiko: How to Break the Atlantic Rowing Record after Brain Surgery  and connect with her on social media at @kikomatthews – that’s with two Ts so watch out – and her website is kikomatthews.co.ukThank you also to Room Steals (www.roomsteals.com) for sponsoring this episode. This is the ultimate hotel hack and if you love travel you are going to want to check this out. Room Steals is a subscription service that offers you wholesale prices of more than 600,000 hotel rooms around the world. On average you will save 30% off of what the major online booking sites will charge you and their Google Chrome extension lets you check out the prices before you buy. The subscription costs $95 per year, but you're going to save loads more than that. Head over to Room Steals (www.roomsteals.com) and type in the coupon code 'armchair' for 20% off the listed price.  Check out Armchair Explorer (www.armchair-explorer.com) for background videos, photos and more on each episode. And please hit that follow button to support the show!Follow @armchairexplorerpodcast across Instagram and Facebook 

Aaron Millar is an award winning travel writer, journalist and author. Aaron loves natural world exploration"and our connection to it. Listen as Aaron defines natural world exploration and his attraction to it. Of course humor plays a significant role in any TripCast360 podcast, and this episode is no exception as we start making our plans for a "Pub Crawl" and what all that entails.Aaron is the Times of London's North American travel specialist and National Geographic Travelers, USA columnist. He's also a contributing writer to a range of national and international publications. His awards include the 2014 and 2017. British Guild of Travel Writers, Travel Writer of the Year; and Visit USA's, Best National Newspaper Writer award winner five times. He's also the host of his own podcast, Armchair Explorer.  Much of his work blends culture, nature, adventure and science. Aaron grew up in Brighton England but is currently home-based in Boulder, Colorado. You can learn more about Aaron at The Blue Dot Perspective. 

In this episode, Captain Lesz Romeo Banham is joined by award winning travel writer and the host of the Armchair Explorer podcast, Aaron Millar.  Aaron shares some of his incredible adventure stories and how he got into the travel industry.  Music is composed by RomanSenykMusic.     To check out Aaron's website, click here: https://www.armchair-explorer.com/